According to Shawn, fads don't work.

Q: With all the hype over low-carb diets, will cutting out carbs help me lose weight?

-C. Kramer, Mission Viejo

A: If you cut anything out of your diet you will lose weight since you are obviously eating fewer calories, however trendy weight loss plans can set you up for failure and doing it the wrong way can be unhealthy and dangerous.

Following a low-carb diet can cause binges and cravings and a disaster waiting to happen—over eating. Let’s be realistic: most people are not going to cut out carbs for the rest of their lives so when you resume normal eating habits, you tend to gain the weight back, sometimes even more!

Carbohydrates are one of the major macronutrients your body needs, and you need them for energy. Experts suggest a minimum of 130 grams of carbohydrates a day, which is a far cry from some of these low-carb diets that suggest 20 grams or less. Short-term effects of low-carb dieting include fatigue, irritability and constipation; long term, you could be putting yourself at risk for heart disease or colon cancer.

Just like with fats, some are better than others. A much safer way to go and to avoid a major shock to your body by eliminating a major source of energy is to lower you intake of refined carbohydrates such as foods made with white flour and sodas, and load up on healthier carbs like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. For example, eating whole grain cereal for breakfast with some fruit would be a good source of carbohydrate.

The carb craze is just that, a craze. A healthier way would be to eat smaller portions, 5 to 6 small meals a day, cut back on refined carbs, drink plenty of water and try to do some sort of exercise daily. This will help you lose weight, I wouldn’t suggest eliminating carbs completely. The best diet is to incorporate a balanced nutritious diet for your body type. Everything in moderation; it’s all about lifestyle choices! Remember, carbohydrates are not the enemy! 
 

Owner of Shawn Ferrando Studio Fitness, Shawn Ferrando, has over 24 years professional experience in the health and fitness industry. Shawn has numerous National certifications including the National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer, National Academy Of Sports Medicine Advanced Specialization Sports Fitness Specialist, National Academy Of Sports Medicine Certified Core Stabilization Training, O.C.C. Fitness Specialist/Personal Trainer, Apex Certified Trainer, AA Nutrition Education, Certified Fitness Nutrition Specialist, Indoor Cycle Certification. Shawn has extensive experience in rehabilitation training (post injury/pre-post surgery), sport specific training and is CPR/AED Certified through the American Heart Association. Shawn is also a member of the world’s largest associations of Health and Fitness Professionals, Idea Health and Fitness Association and the American College Of Sports Medicine.

949.292.1799| 30555 Trabuco Canyon Road # 101, Trabuco Canyon, CA www.ShawnsStudioFitness.com

To contact Shawn directly, please email her at Shawn@ShawnsStudioFitness.com