I OFTEN get asked if going low carb is the best way to lose fat or improve weight loss? No doubt many of you will also be familiar with the Atkin’s Diet which was famous in the 90’s. The basic premise; eat little or no carbs other than limited vegetables every day. As well as doctor Atkin’s there are several diets which emphasise low carbs, more recently the ‘Paleo’ and the ‘Primal’ diet have become increasingly popular.

I OFTEN get asked if going low carb is the best way to lose fat or improve weight loss? No doubt many of you will also be familiar with the Atkin’s Diet which was famous in the 90’s. The basic premise; eat little or no carbs other than limited vegetables every day. As well as doctor Atkin’s there are several diets which emphasise low carbs, more recently the ‘Paleo’ and the ‘Primal’ diet have become increasingly popular.

So, should you cut out carbs? Well it really depends. In actual fact a better question is, which carbs should you eat, how much and how often.

First up, I often recommend sticking to only rice and potatoes, or some quinoa if you’re feeling exotic. The reason being eliminating gluten tends to have a positive effect on the majority of clients, not least of all because it forces us into better food choices. Yeah I know you can buy gluten free, paleo pizza but let’s not kid ourselves. If you want pizza, eat it, just don’t try to convince me it’s part of your five a day.

In short, try sticking to rice or potato for a month, any type will do. After that have some bread or pasta and see how you feel, believe me your body will tell you if it likes it...or not!

Secondly, the amount of carbs you eat should be dependent on your activity level. A guy working on a building site driving a sledge hammer all day will need more carbs than a guy sitting at a desk. So if you don’t have an active job or train often, stick to one small portion of carbs per day, preferably at night. A portion the size of your fist is ideal. If you are training in the gym get an extra portion after your workout. At all over times stick to meat and veg.

If you are looking to gain muscle then by all means get some more carbs at lunch too. Just stick to the types recommended to reduce the chances of inflammation. Gradually increase your portions until you start to gain mass.

Lastly, carbohydrate needs vary wildly individual to individual so experiment and see what works for you. Above all ignore any dietary dogma which demonises a particular food group while selling you some product or program. Remember it’s all about food quality AND quantity.

You can get involved by Tweeting your diet and fitness questions @GM_Fit, following GM FIT Personal Training Glasgow on Facebook or picking up a copy of Average Joe’s Old School Strength & Fat Loss on Amazon.

Eat.

Sleep.

Exercise.