If you are determined to get in shape, a plan that can be worth following is a low carb weight loss program. Minimal carbohydrate diets such as South Beach and Atkins are known to be highly effective, this works because the body's usual fuel source is not available. Instead of using carbohydrates, your body will be forced into burning up fat for its energy needs.
Before taking up this diet, you should be sure that you will stay committed and focused. A low carb diet can be extremely restrictive, especially at the initial stage. It will take strong willpower and determination not to give in to your cravings. Once your weight has started to come down, you can introduce more carbohydrates, though not to the degree that all your hard work would be in vain.
To start with, you should stick to a dietary plan that contains as little as twenty grams of carbohydrates a day for the first two weeks, and these should be sourced only from vegetables. It will be more productive to choose non-starchy vegetables like spinach, lettuce, celery, broccoli, and mushrooms. It is okay to have three square meals a day, though your body will burn off more fat if you switch to five smaller meals.
Foods such as pasta, fruit, rice, potatoes, and bread should be avoided as much as possible; your focus should be on vegetables and protein. It is suggested that as much as six ounces of protein can be consumed with each meal, though this should be from lean meat such as poultry, fish, and venison. Dairy products can also be included, though not in an excessive amount.
It is important to drink a lot of water during this period of time when you are following the weight-loss program. Under no circumstance should you let your body become dehydrated as this can quickly lead to health problems. Instead of consuming sugary drinks, switch to fruit juices. Teas and coffees should be kept to a minimum as these can have a diuretic effect. The act of drinking water alone can help lose weight and flush your system.
If you are concerned about not getting enough nutrients, you can always take a daily multivitamin or supplement. Try and ensure you do not skip a meal as this can trick your body into storing more fat in reserve. Within a few weeks you should start to see a positive change in your weight, but you must continue to be strict with yourself if you do not want to end up slowly getting back to your old size.