Regarding lasting fat reduction, low-carb diets are the only method that have attracted as much research in science. Nutrition scientist and wellness guru Jasmine Turner dissects the biochemistry behind why lowering carbs may be so successful for burning stubborn fat—and how to do it correctly.
Fundamentally, a low-carb diet acts by changing the main fuel source used by your body. Carbohydrates are broken down generally into glucose, which your body utilises for energy.
Your liver starts turning stored fat into ketones, an other energy source, when you drastically cut carb consumption. Not only does this metabolic state—known as ketosis—promotes fat burning—but it also helps control ghrelin, hence lowering cravings and overconsumption.
Jasmine stresses that not all low-carb diet is developed equal. She supports a “clean” low-carb diet, stressing nutrient-dense foods such leafy greens, avocados, almonds, and premium proteins while avoiding processed “low-carb” trash items. Studies reveal that this approach maintains lean muscle mass more effectively than severe carb restriction, which can cause metabolic slowing down and muscle loss.
Insulin sensitivity is one amazing feature Jasmine emphasises. Your body responds better to insulin when you cut carbohydrates—especially processed carbs and sweets. Reduced energy crashes, more steady blood sugar levels, and less chance of storing extra calories as fat follow from this.
Jasmine advises a progressive transition—slowly substituting good fats and proteins for grains and sugars—for anyone thinking about a low-carb diet to reduce the “keto flu” some experience during adaption. She also emphasises the need of electrolyte balance as low-carb diets can rob magnesium, potassium, and salt.
The research is unambiguous: low-carb diets may be a very effective weapon for fat loss when followed correctly. But as Jasmine reminds us, sustainability is essential; this is about more effectively fuelling your body, not about deprivation.