The Science Behind Why Low-Carb Diets Work (2024)

There is a lot of evidence showing that low-carb diets are more effective at promoting weight-loss than the normal low-fat diet. Many studies have come out supporting the low-carb diet.

These studies show that this form of weight loss has no serious side effects. In fact, it creates major improvements within the body, from blood pressure and blood sugar levels dropping to loss of visceral fat around the organs, which can cause inflammation and disease.

However, despite knowing that low-carb diets work, scientists still are not completely why they work. Here are three possible explanations for why low-carb diets are effective.

Less carbs means insulin levels go down

Insulin is the hormone that regulates your energy storage and blood-sugar levels. It also tells fat cells to store and hold on to fat, as well as telling other cells to burn blood sugar instead of fat.

When someone starts a low-carb diet, it can lead to almost immediate reductions in insulin levels, which then leads to fat loss. When carbohydrates are taken away, insulin levels drop, which stops cells from storing fat and allows it to be used for energy.

But not every researcher believes that carbohydrates are major contributors to obesity.

Low-carb dieters lose water weight

Low-carb diets tend to promote water weight loss very quickly. Within one to two weeks of starting the diet, users usually see the biggest weight loss.

Why does this happen? First, when insulin drops, the kidneys remove extra sodium from the body. Second, when someone restricts their carb intake, glycogen — the stuff that keeps extra water in the organs — also goes down.

But people who switch to low-carb diets generally stop losing water weight in the first two weeks. This means that only part of the weight loss from low-carb diets comes from loss of water weight.

Cutting carbs often means eating more protein

When people start low-carb diets, they usually start eating more protein. Grains and sugars get replaced with meat, fish and eggs. This leads to higher levels of protein in the body.

There are many studies that show protein has weight-loss advantages. These include reduced appetite, increased metabolism and increased muscle mass, which continually burns calories.

Is low-carb for you?

There’s plenty of evidence that low-carb diets work. However, if you are having trouble losing weight, there may be an underlying cause for it. Midwest Express Clinic providers are happy to answer any concerns you may have. Check in online at one of our locations.