Kim Kardashian's diet could aid your weight loss journey

A diet favoured by celebrities like Kim Kardashian could aid in weight loss and decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes, though it does have some downsides.

The low-carb diet doesn't concentrate on specific foods like many other diets do, but rather limits the amount of carbohydrates one consumes daily. This is often balanced with an increase in protein and fat intake.

It is crucial to understand that there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to the low-carb diet, and it can be tailored to your needs while still allowing you to enjoy many of your favourite foods.

Losing weight on low-carb diet

In certain cases, a low-carb diet could assist in weight loss. The main argument for a low-carb diet is that it helps reduce insulin levels, which promotes fat storage while also boosting metabolism.

Some research suggests that a low-carb diet can trigger rapid weight loss over six or 12 months. Some argue that this aids in weight loss because the increased consumption of proteins and fats to compensate for the lack of carbohydrates can enhance feelings of fullness, thereby reducing hunger.

READ MORE: 'My boobs turned blue for three years after I was diagnosed with cancer'

READ MORE: 'I ate Tour De France cyclist's 7,000 calorie-a-day diet - and I could not believe how much weight I put on'

However, it is important to remember that there are numerous variations of the low-carb diet, each with potentially different outcomes. For instance, Kim Kardashian has previously mentioned following the Atkins Diet, which adapts a low-carb diet specifically for weight loss.

The Atkins Diet primarily centres on limiting carbohydrate intake whilst significantly boosting protein and fat consumption (including saturated fats for some adherents). Typically, an Atkins diet follower will begin by consuming less than 20g of carbs daily for a fortnight before gradually introducing more nuts, and low-carb vegetables.

As the follower approaches their target weight, they can incorporate more carbs until their weight loss decelerates. Once they reach their desired weight, they are generally permitted to consume as many unprocessed carbs as their body can handle without regaining weight.

If you are considering adopting the low-carb or Atkins diet for weight loss, it is recommended that you first consult with a healthcare professional or GP. Bear in mind that limiting your intake of vegetables and fruits could potentially result in a deficiency of essential vitamins and nutrients each day.

Reduce risk of and treat type 2 diabetes

Diabetes UK emphasises that a low-carb diet could assist individuals with type 2 diabetes in managing their weight and blood glucose levels. However, it points out that there isn't much evidence to suggest it's effective for those living with type 1 diabetes and it could potentially hinder growth in children.

For people with diabetes, it notes that people will generally eat less than 130g of carbohydrates a day to ensure they are still getting essential vitamins, mineral, and fibre. Further details on a low-carb meal plan for people with diabetes can be found through the Diabetes UK website.