Tag: Low carb effects

Carbohydrates are the body's primary and preferred source of fuel, with roughly 45 to 65% of an average person's daily calories coming from this macronutrient. When these vital fuel sources are removed, the body is forced to undergo a significant metabolic adaptation to find an alternative energy supply.

Approximately 70% of U.S. adults consume more than the recommended amount of daily added sugars, which can make the transition to a low-carb diet particularly difficult. This drastic dietary shift can trigger a range of temporary, unpleasant symptoms known as the 'keto flu'.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, the daily value for carbohydrates is 275 grams per day for a standard 2,000-calorie diet, yet many people intentionally or unintentionally consume far less. When you drastically reduce or eliminate carbohydrates from your diet, your body undergoes a significant metabolic shift to find an alternative fuel source.

Reports suggest that some individuals on a low-carb diet experience a sense of euphoria or heightened mental clarity as their body enters ketosis. The question, 'Why do I feel high on keto?', arises from this distinct and often surprising mental state, which can be traced back to several significant metabolic and neurological changes.

According to a 2018 study, individuals on low-carbohydrate diets are linked with an increased risk of mortality. This occurs when one's carbohydrate intake is insufficient, forcing the body to seek alternative energy sources. Understanding the cascade of effects is crucial for anyone considering a drastic change in their diet.

The human brain alone consumes approximately 120 grams of glucose daily, accounting for roughly 20% of the body's total energy expenditure. When a person is deficient in carbohydrates, the body's primary energy source is cut off, triggering a cascade of metabolic and physiological changes that affect both physical and mental well-being.