Side effects of low carb diets

Most people who would want to start a low carb diet wonder whether there are any side effects they have to be aware of before they embark on them. Many would like to know whether there are negative side effects associated with these diets.

Some of the low carb side effects can be challenging especially for people with health conditions and they are taking medication for the conditions. More often than not the side effects are positive but it’s good to be aware that they can happen. It’s advisable to see a medical care provider to monitor your progress and if possible change, reduce or get rid of medications as you progress.

Some low carb side effects are not harmful but you need to be aware of them altogether. This is because they might be uncomfortable. These side effects are most common during the first week on the diet. They are usually brought about by your body trying to adjust to the eating habits. They might include: headaches, nausea, lethargy (low energy), dizziness, sugar cravings and constipation.

Lowered blood sugar levels

Low carb diets lead to reduced blood sugar levels. This is a very important side effect especially for diabetics especially those who take medication or inject insulin. Given that low carb diets naturally reduce your blood sugar levels then the doctor may have to change your medication to compensate for the changes.

Weight loss

This is another positive side effect of low carb diets. Technically weight loss is not a side effect but putting into consideration the effects related to it such as regulation of blood pressure and resolution of breathing problems then it qualifies for one. Low carb diets help reduce blood pressure. This is the same case for digestive troubles. If you experience such side effects then you need to see your doctor so that he can adjust any medication you might be taking.

Other good side effects include reduced craving for sugars and starches, increased energy, improved bowel movements, reduced stomach upsets and bloated and gassy feelings, loss of excess water retention, loss of excess body fats and regulated blood sugar levels.

There are also a couple of women specific low carb diet side effects. In the first week or two of your new low carb diet, you may experience oddities with your monthly menstrual flow. Usually this side effect lasts a short time though, and is caused by your body adjusting to the new eating lifestyle you've chosen. A great low carb diet side effect comes later: Women's menstrual flow is usually reduced, and there is generally much less pain or other problems involved while you're on a low carb diet.
Many of those early low carb diet side effects can be reduced by drinking extra water and getting plenty of rest, plus making sure you don't go hungry. In rare cases these initial low carb diet side effects can last as long as ten days, but usually they're present from approximately the third to the fifth day of your low carb diet.