Keto And Carb Cravings

Carbs are everywhere you look and they might pop up in some surprising places. Most of us have a national love for carbs. Even if you don't eat a lot of delicious carb treats you may still experience intense carb cravings in the first few weeks of trying Keto. So many healthy carbohydrate foods have hidden sugars in them, so your body may start to experience withdrawal after deleting them over a period.

The problem with carbs, and sugar is that your blood sugar is tied into your energy levels and your overall health. When your blood sugar is too low, you will experience intense cravings. High blood sugar is a result of eating high-sugar meals. When you eat carbs with a lot of concentrated sugar, your blood sugar will raise to high levels. 

Your pancreas thinks there is something wrong and then it secretes insulin to lower the blood sugar. As this happens more, you can create pre-diabetic conditions in your body as your pancreas becomes worn out and eventually cannot secrete insulin.

Fortunately, getting started on a Keto plan can put a stop to this cycle. However, this doesn't mean that sugar cravings go away automatically. Carbs, and sugar products are everywhere and temptation is sometimes hard to fight.

The best way to approach these cravings is with planning. If you maintain a balance of protein, fat and fiber in your daily diet you will prevent blood sugar drops that lead to cravings. Also, do not go too long between meals without eating. Snacks are an important part of keeping your blood sugar stable. Have some handy snacks like cheese, nuts, seeds and boiled eggs on hand with you so you can quickly stabilize your blood sugar without turning to sweet treats.

Sugar cravings can also be a sign of a nutritional deficiency. When you are low on magnesium, you will crave chocolate and other sweets. Zinc and chromium can also stave off sugar cravings. If you aren't taking a good multivitamin supplement with these minerals, start immediately. If you are and you are still experiencing cravings, consider trying additional supplements of these nutrients.

Another tactic is to brush your teeth. Many Keto dieters have told me that brushing their teeth or using Listerine breath strips can help with cravings. Both methods will numb your mouth and prevent you from wanting to eat. Drinking two large glasses of water can also help eliminate cravings. If your stomach is full, then you'll be less likely to reach for a sugary treat.

Sometimes out of sight, out of mind is the best approach. If you find yourself overcome with carb, or sugar cravings while you are at home, get outside and take a walk. The distraction will have you forgetting your craving in no time. 

Calling a friend for support or going online and reading a great wellness blog article for support can also go a long way toward preventing you from succumbing to your cravings.

Having a low-carb, or low-sugar version of your favorite treat is another good idea. You are less likely to feel deprived if you can have a satisfying treat. There are a wide variety of low-carb, or low-sugar products available on the market that can beat your sweet tooth. 

Both types of cravings are a reality of following a Keto plan, but the previous tips will help you overcome them and stay committed to your weight loss efforts.

This article is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is not to be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice or a nutritionistís recommendation. Prior to beginning any dietary program, including a low carb diet, individuals should consult a physician for proper diagnosis and/or an appropriate path toward weight loss.

10 Habits To Open A Floodgate of Energy

Start feeling less tired, more alive, and energized by adopting some of the following energy boosting strategies listed below:

* Always eat breakfast

Believe it or not, the first meal of the day is the most important one which provides your body the required fuel to keep you going throughout the day.  Never miss breakfast; snack on an energy bar, a banana or apple, or drink a glass of juice, if you're in a hurry.

* Eat smaller meals and more often

Studies have proven that by eating smaller and healthier meals throughout the day actually gives you more energy as opposed to bigger meals which often make you feel tired and sleepy! Try to eat a healthy snack every three or four hours to maintain your energy levels.

* Exercise!

Walk, jog, or cycle at least fifteen minutes everyday. Any kind of physical activity will boost your energy levels. Find time between breaks, classes, before or after work. Plan ahead and establish a schedule for exercising. You will notice an immediate difference in energy!

* Feed your cells!

If you feel run down and extremely fatigued often or just sometimes, this may be a sure sign that the cells in your body are not receiving enough nutrients. When our body does not get its required dosage of nutrients from our diet, we become exhausted much faster.

To help me stay energized, and more focused, I like to use an AdvoCare supplement called Spark.

* High energy foods

Consider adding high energy foods to your diet such as low-fat cheese, milk, yogurt, beans, eggs, fish, poultry, and lean meat.

* Juice

Drink a whole glass of organic apple or pure orange juice. These two will provide you with plenty of energy, especially when you are running low!

* Water

Drink water on a regular basis.

* Reduce caffeine consumption!

A great way to help maintain your energy levels is to reduce or eliminate caffeine from your diet. Remember: caffeine is a stimulant and will make you jittery.

* Vitamins

Take supplements of vitamins C, E, and B6. Or, eat foods rich in these vitamins like oranges, almonds, peanuts, and pecans.

* Minerals

Take iron as a supplement; it will boost your overall energy.

There you have it, 10 sure fire ways to boost your energy, until next time...take care.

Written by,

Dwight Obey, Independent AdvoCare Distributor