carbs

Question
To lose weight on a low carb diet, is it necessary to eat no carbs at all to get into and stay in ketosis?
I need to pack a lunch and often eat while driving-making sandwhiches and wraps a necessetity. So, if all the carbs I eat daily  is about 30 grams for the bread, while keeping my overall calories low, will I still lose weight?

Answer
Hi Sue

I will preface my answer by saying that I have had no lasting success with diets that are so carb-restricted as to result in ketosis.  I know that some advocate this approach to rapid weight loss but many feel it is not optimal for long-term health or weight management.

My answers therefore are geared towards the more moderate approach of controlling carb intake to a level that provides adequate energy reserves (not ketosis-level)but still allows for reasonable rate of weight loss (1-2 lbs/wk).  This is more in the range of 75-100 g /day.

At this level, provided your TOTAL caloric intake is commensurate with your weight loss goals, activity level, etc. you should lose weight and feel good.I see no reason why a healthy (i.e., low fat, sugar-free) wrap or bread for your on the go meals would be problematic.

Suggest you take a look at my web page on the principles of <a href="http://www.optimalfoods.org/low-glycemic-diet.html">low glycemic dieting</a< for a more thorough discussion.

Good luck!

1. Prev:low carb diet
2. Next:raw chicken