Best Low Carb Diet

After a few years of inching my way up the scale, I decided to start doing a low carb diet again. This time though, I don't plan to ever quit completely. I have lost about 15lbs in 5 months and I feel great.

My goal in 2012 is to lose another 5lbs by adding in some exercise. I have sort of plateaued with my diet although I could be a little more strict. But for now I will focus in on some cardio work along with training to not only lose an additional 5lbs but just to get in better shape.

If you are struggling to lose weight, I really do recommend a low carb diet. See you in 2012!

My first experience with low carb dieting was in my mid-twenties. I wasn't particularly overweight but was always looking to drop a few pounds and the Atkins diet was becoming popular. A few of my coworkers had some great success so I gave it a go.

I made it through the first two weeks of the Atkins diet (induction phase) and then quit. I did lose some weight but I found the foods too restrictive. Fast forward a few years. After having my second child I had about 20 pounds to lose and decided to give low carb another try. This time I was able to stick to the diet for many months and became a low carb convert!

Over the years I have tried other diets - low fat and calorie restriction come to mind. But nothing compares to the ease and results of following a low carb plan.

There are a few reasons why I love the low carb lifestyle:

1) It's easy to follow. You don't have to count calories or feel hungry all the time. Instead, you can only eat certain types of foods without worrying about the quantities you eat (for the most part). And the appetite suppression of high protein foods is amazing.

2) It's flexible. At least the way I do it. I don't follow a set diet menu, I just know what foods I can and cannot eat and go day by day.

3) You lose weight quickly. Maybe the initial pounds lost are just water weight, but the quick loss is still a great motivator. After just a couple days on the diet your pants should feel looser and that is a great feeling.

4) Increased energy. I tend to be a low energy person but when I am low carbing I feel great! My energy is stable throughout the day, I need less sleep and I hate to admit it, but I think my moods are much better.

5) Less joint pain. This last one won't be important to everyone, but as someone who suffers from mild joint pain, a low carb lifestyle has been the cure.

I know that most people who are looking for the best low carb diet are probably interested in weight loss primarily, but I have to say that points 4 & 5 above are some great side benefits. In fact, I plan to restart a low carb lifestyle after a long break specifically to improve my energy and reduce my joint pain. As I get older these side benefits are becoming more and more important to me.

But if you are looking for a great weight loss plan, especially if you need to lose weight quickly, I highly recommend a low carb diet. Give it a few weeks and I promise that you will be very happy with the results.