Question on running and low carb diet
 

Hello, all. New to this board. I was on a low carb diet in 2001/2002 and lost 60+ pounds. Went off the program and gained back 25 pounds. I started a running program in December and have lost about 6 pounds. I want to get back into a low carb lifestyle but have heard a lot of negative things about running and low carbing. Any suggestions??

I'm not an expert by any means, but I am going to be starting a powerwalking / jogging regimine as soon as it's a little nicer. I am on a LC WOL and love it, I will never divert from this WOE, however, I had the same concerns as you. From what I gather, people who LC increase their carb consumption just prior to running (i.e. a bowl of berries in my case or a shake) and that should help with stamina, just see how your body reacts, we're all different - I don't think I'd need much more because I work out 3 x a week and keep my carbs at 20 grams per day and my calories around 1300 - 1500.

Hope this helps.

Vikki

I followed the Zone Diet for about 10 years. Research suggests low carb eating does not negatively effect performance or endurance as long as the protein requirements are met. My biggest problem with the Zone approach was I couldn't maintain endurance on long runs without supplementing with carbs. I assume it will be the same thing on Adkins.

Another problem with Adkins is the dependance on meat. I was involved with the beef industry and know the FDA meat inspection division is a joke. You cannot buy beef that hasn't been treated with a myriad of hormones, antibiotics and antiparasiticals. What other forms of protein can be used?

The running research that I have read indicates that a low carb diet DOES negatively affect performance. I will try to find the research.

vbrowne makes a very good point about adding in some carbs when your intensity level will increase. That is what I do, as well as using carbs DURING more intense (2 hours plus) training.
I probably average 60-100 carbs on most days, higher on long training days. Very low for a long distance runner. I find the Sugarbusters glycemic index to be helpful in finding foods to add to get extra carbs, while still being able to lose weight.