Nutrition Questions and Answers
Vital Health Zone is proud to announce Anastacia Sampson , who is our resident naturopathic expert and who is available to answer questions about nutrition and health.
Anastacia Sampson has a private practice and is available for consultation in a number of ways.
Anastacia Sampson will answer your nutrition-related questions.
Q: I'm male, aged 60, and I'm considering starting a low-carbohydrate diet to lose some weight, particularly round the waist. I'm very confused about the following points:
I understand the idea is to persuade the body to get glucose from body fat instead of carbs, but if I eat a high-fat diet, won't my body use this instead of body fat?
With a high fat diet, isn't there a risk of a higher level of bad cholesterol?
Isn't it the case that there are essential nutrients in carbohydrate foods like bread, pasta, rice etc?
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A: Thank you for your email.
Rather avoid a low carbohydrate, high fat diet, instead try a low GI (glycaemic index) diet.
Here are the answers to your questions, briefly.
Your body can only burn fat efficiently in the presence of carbohydrates. As we restrict intake of carbohydrates we can develop ketosis a state whereby one forms ketones (the partial breakdown products of protein and fat that is excreted in urine and the breath). These partial breakdown products result in loss of potential energy sources and lead to weight loss. Remember protein can be slightly converted to sugar and by this mechanism we at least manage to process some energy from our food intake in a low carbohydrate diet.
Yes risk of higher cholesterol is a problem with a high fat diet.
Yes we do limit many essential nutrients such as vitamin C, fibre and others on a restricted carbohydrate diet.
You can lose weight yet be mindful that a healthy lifestyle will be more productive as your long term health is optimized.
If you should need further assistance do email, a tailor made diet should be followed that meets your requirements or any low GI diet.
Please note that the information provided is for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Consult with your medical physician regarding appropriateness of using supplements in your healing process.
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Enjoy better health!
