Low Carb Vs Low Fat, Why do they both work
/There is a reason why low carb and low fat diets have both historically worked well for weight loss. But which one is the best one for you?
First I need to explain the macronutrient hierarchy. Your body uses each of the 3 macronutrients fats, carbs, and protein in a specific order based on storage space and needs.
Protein gets used first to spare muscle and because it has the least stores in the body. Carbs get used second because they get turned into glucose, which is quick energy, and have the second largest amount storage space in the body. Fat gets used last because we have unlimited fat stores to prevent starvation. Pretty brilliant if you think about it!
Protein - used first, minimal stores
Carbs - used second, quick energy, & more stores than protein
Fat - used last, stored first, unlimited storage space
So what this translates into is if you are having a meal full of carbs, fats, and protein. The fats are of the last priority so the will get stored into adipose tissue, what we call fat cells, and used last for energy after the protein and carbs.
This explains why high fat and carb/sugar items are known to causes weight gain; chips, pizza, ice cream, cookies, cakes, french fries, etc. Because with the combo you getting a high amount of carbs and fat with a high amount of calories. Your body can’t run off of carbs and fat at the same time so this prompts the body to put the excess calories from fat into your adipose stores quickly.
On the flip side if you are having a meal full of protein and fats with minimal carbohydrates, only from vegetables, your body will use the protein and then use the fat for energy instead of storing it. Also know as being “fat adapted”, the ability to use the macronutrient fat for energy. Being fat adapted allows your body to use the energy in your adipose tissue for energy instead of using glucose, aka carbs, which prevent blood sugar crashes that show up as being hangry. This also promotes weight loss because your body is using the fat in your adipose tissue for energy!
So if you eat a meal full of protein and carbs, with no fat, since there is no fat nothing gets stored automatically. Therefore, it will used the protein and carbs for energy and only put the carbs into storage if you eat more than your body needs to function.
In my professional opinion we often go to the extremes to quickly, such as well then “fat is bad” or “carbs are bad.” They both have their place in the body and provide necessary energy and nutrients. It is all about eating the right types of each nutrient and understanding how to balance them.
This means looking at your sources of carbs, are they from vegetables and tubers, or are they from packaged and processed items? Are your fat sources vegetable oils that have been hydrogenated and disease promoting, or olive oil and butter? All of these factors need to be taken into consideration to determine your health not just if your eating low carb or low fat.
If you are interested in learning which style of eating is best for your body and current medical condition schedule a FREE discovery call today! Let’s work together to help you achieve lasting health.