Carbohydrate free diet
A healthy balanced diet means eating from a variety of food groups to gain the nutrients we need for functioning at our best. We may choose to exclude a particular food group for any number of reasons – faith or religious beliefs, health beliefs, ethical or green reasons, or we may have an allergy or intolerance.
Nutrients fall into six categories: carbohydrates, protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and fat. The main food groups include simple and complex sugars, fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, dairy, nuts, and pulses. Excluding food groups can put us at risk of a deficiency, but with knowledge and careful planning, we can avoid this. Let’s take a look at each in turn.
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What deficiencies do I risk if I avoid carbs?
Carbohydrates are our main source of energy, and we recommend a healthy diet that contains just over half of your daily calories from healthy carbs, such as fiber-rich fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Limit intake of potatoes, bread, and rice.
Healthy carbs release energy slowly over hours (also described by low glycemic index). They may contain other important nutrients such as fiber, calcium, iron, and the vitamin B group.
Simple sugars give a quick, short-lived boost (and have a high glycemic index). These are more likely found in processed foods, sweets, and biscuits and are contributing to the growing obesity problem.
Many choose to restrict carbohydrate intake to lose weight. Others may choose this as part of sports training to build muscle mass.
What if I’m doing this for weight loss?
If this is part of a weight loss program, the aim is to reduce overall calories, so there is no need to "replace" this food group. A good start is reducing simple sugars or replacing them with fiber-rich foods so you feel fuller for longer, stopping snacking and thereby reducing calories. But you should ensure you are getting enough energy to allow the body to run efficiently. Making healthy choices as part of a recognized regimen will be more effective in keeping weight off in the long term and ensure you’re getting other vital nutrients, such as the fiber that comes with starchy wholegrain foods.
What if I’m looking to bulk up my muscles?
If you are a bodybuilder or need muscle mass for playing sports at a high level, such as rugby, boxing, or rowing, you may choose a diet that supplies energy from protein rather than carbohydrates. This diet is rich in red meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, beans, and tofu. If done with the right guidance, this can be safe and healthy, and the right food choices can be healthier than taking protein supplements or shakes, but you should be cautious if you have any kidney problems.
Do I need a blood test?
If you follow a healthy balanced diet with vitamin supplements, you don’t need a blood test to continue with a carb-free diet.
If you have any symptoms or medical conditions that may put you at risk, especially if you’re considering a keto diet, you should discuss these with your doctor, who may investigate further.
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