The Most Popular Low-Carb Diets

Losing weight by following a low-carb diet has become incredibly popular. As a result, there are a number of different plans, all of which have a devoted following. Figuring out which plan is best for you can be confusing, so it helps to learn how the most popular ones work before deciding which one will be best for you.

One of the first, and most notorious of the low-carb plans, is the Atkins Diet. Its underlying principle is that excessive carbohydrate consumption is responsible for most cases of obesity. There are four phases to the Atkins Diet: induction, on-going weight loss, pre-maintenance, and maintenance. How long you spend in each phase can depend on the individual. In the induction phase, almost no carbohydrates are consumed. As you proceed through the phases, you gradually add back some carbohydrates. The key is to find the right amount to help you keep off the weight you lose. Only nutrient-rich carbs are allowed at any phase. You will have to avoid sugar and refined carbs for the rest of your life.

The Atkins Diet has taken some criticism for its seeming disregard for the amounts of fat and cholesterol that are consumed. The Zone Diet addresses some of these issues. It focuses on lean sources of protein and recommends monounsaturated fats as well as a lot of Omega-3 fatty acids. Carbs are allowed, but they must be low on the glycemic index. On the whole, the diet avoids saturated fats, egg yolks, starchy vegetables, and foods with added sugars. The goal is to consume 40% carbs, 30% protein and 30% fat, spread out over 5 small meals and 2 snacks every day.

The South Beach Diet recommends most of the same foods as the Zone Diet, but is far less structured. There is considerable restriction in the first two weeks, but much less after that. There is no carb counting or weighing or measuring. The idea is that a correct weight can be achieved simply by eating the right foods.

There are a number of other low-carb diets, but most are at least somewhat similar to the three mentioned above. If you wish to follow one, you should look into the details, and choose the one that will be easiest for you to follow for an extended period of time.

For more information please visit: lindasdietdelites.com Linda's Diet Delites