Low-Carb Diets: Why You Are (Or Aren’t) Losing Weight

Around 73% of American’s are overweight or obese.

So, it’s no wonder the diet industry is booming. From Atkins to HCG, to keto, to vegan, there are a whole host of diet plans that promise you Victoria’s Secret model results.

But for some reason, it’s not working. If you’re not losing weight on diet plans, there are a few hacks that you need to know to get your dream body.

Read on to learn why you are or aren’t losing weight.

What Constitutes a Low Carb Diet?

Low carb diets work by restricting foods that are high in sugar. Sugar is hidden in many foods you might not realize; foods such as bread, pasta, cakes, pizza, and most desserts are all off-limits on a low carb diet.

Instead of eating refined carbohydrates, meat, fish, eggs, and vegetables are your primary source of nutrition on a low carb diet.

Why You Are Losing Weight on Low Carb

Low carb diet weight loss can be extreme. Diets such as Atkins and paleo often see shocking results in the first few weeks. This is because your body switches from burning carbohydrates to burning fat.

This is a state called ketosis; as your fat stores break down, they release water molecules. If you’ve ever heard of losing ‘water weight,’ this is what that refers to.

For this reason, in the first few days or weeks of a low carb diet, you can expect to lose up to 14 pounds. But be warned, this isn’t 14 pounds of fat; lots of weight loss is simply water.

Why You Aren’t Losing Weight on Low Carb

If you’re not losing weight on diet plans, there are a few possible reasons why. First, you’re too strict, and then you’re binge eating. Think about it; you restrict all week and then visit an all-you-can-eat on Saturday – you’ve basically undone all your hard work.

The second reason you’re not losing weight may be because you aren’t eating enough. As your metabolism adjusts to eating less food, it’ll work harder to utilize every single calorie you eat. Try eating in a slight calorie deficit every day to avoid this; you can learn more about eating sensibly here.

Finally, as discussed above, there’s the issue of water weight. If you’ve dehydrated through a low carb diet, all that water will pile back on the second you even look at a burger and fries – making you feel like all your hard work was a waste.

How to Lose Weight on a Low Carb Diet

That’s a simple guide to why you are or aren’t losing weight. Whether you’ve been on a long and drawn-out weight loss journey or you’re just getting started, we hope that this guide has given you new insight.

The main takeaway from low carb diets is that they are effective but not always sustainable long-term – so make sure you’ve got a plan for when the novelty wears off.

Did you enjoy this article? If so, make sure to check out our other posts for all the health hacks you didn’t know you needed!