12 Simple Tips to Help Get Started on a Low-Carb Diet
Low-carb diets have quickly gained popularity over the years because of their effectiveness in weight loss and health improvement, but for someone who’s just starting on this diet, it can be overwhelming and slightly intimidating to know how and where to begin. These 12 tips will set you on the right path to good health. They’re practical and easy-to-follow that will help you stay committed to your low-carb diet goals.
The most important thing to remember is that this is a total lifestyle change, and it’s important to stay committed. It won’t be easy to transition into a new diet, but hopefully, these tips can make it easier for you.
Know Your Why
Whether it is to lose weight, improve your health, or both, knowing your why will help to stay focused. Writing it out on a Post-it note will help remind you. “I’m doing this to lose weight or for better health,” or “I’m doing this because I need to take better care of my health and I’m worth it.” Little prompts like that keep your why at the front and center of your day.
Do Research
Get online or buy books and learn more about the benefits of low-carb diets and what you need to know before starting. Knowing the facts will help you understand what this diet entails and help you better prepare for what’s in store for you. Being well prepared will avoid the risk of disappointment in yourself.
Prepare a Weekly Meal Plan
Plan your meals for the week ahead so that you always have low-carb options when you’re hungry. This way, you know exactly what you’re eating and for which meal, including snacks. This also makes grocery shopping and cooking much more manageable.
Stock Up on Low-Carb Foods
While this may sound like a no-brainer, it still needs to be said. Fill your fridge and pantry with low-carb foods like fresh vegetables, lean meats, eggs, and low-fat cheese. If you have any ‘bad foods’ in your kitchen, get rid of them. It’s important to remove all desires and temptations. If you have any unopened packages, why not donate them to the food bank?
Avoid High Carb Foods
You know what they are. Avoid them at all costs. These include sugary drinks, pastries, bread, rice, and pasta. Substitute high-carb foods with lower-carb and high-protein options. And don’t forget to clean out that kitchen!
Choose Your Fruits Wisely
Certain fruits like bananas, grapes, and mangoes contain a high amount of natural sugars and carbs. Opt for low-carb fruits like berries, avocados, and some citrus fruits instead. Check a fruit carb chart to be on the safe side.
Try Low-carb Recipes
Low-carb diets do not have to be boring. There are several delicious and healthy recipes that you can try out without breaking your carb allowance. Now is a great time to start experimenting with some fun low-carb recipes. Awaken your senses and your tastebuds!
Don’t Skip Meals
Skipping meals can cause hunger pangs and cravings, which may push you to indulge in high-carb foods. Eat small, well-proportioned meals throughout the day to stay full and satisfied. If you have to skip a meal for whatever reason, try to have healthy, low-carb snacks on hand to stay fueled.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and flush out toxins from your body. This will help ease any food cravings you may be experiencing as well. If you aren’t a fan of drinking plain, boring water, why not add a squeeze of lemon juice or mint leaves?
Seek Support
Surround yourself with people who will encourage and support you on your low-carb journey. This could be friends, family, your doctor, or a support group. If they know you are on a low-carb diet, they may be more prone to have low-carb snacks on hand when you visit instead of tempting you with cakes, pies, pizza or other unhealthy treats.
Stay Consistent
Consistency is key when on a low-carb diet. Stick to your plan and be patient with yourself. This way, you will achieve your goals in no time. It can be easy to sway and just have “one little treat,” but that’s a bad idea. Doing this will set you back, and you’ll end up with the same poor eating habits.
Track Your Progress
Make sure to take all your measurements and weight before starting your keto diet, and then keep track of your numbers. This will motivate and inspire you to keep going and you’ll be less likely to fall off your keto path.
Conclusion
Starting a low-carb diet may seem daunting at first, but with these 13 tips, you have all the support you need to get started and see results. Remember, it’s not about perfection but making gradual changes to your lifestyle that will lead to lasting health improvement. Stay committed, and you’ll be on your way to achieving your weight loss and health goals in no time!
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Iva discovered the keto diet back in 2020 and has experimented with it, off and on. She recently took over this site and shares experiences, her knowledge and some yummy recipes. She also runs a women only website Women Blazing Trails.
