Setting Up

I keep making myself sick with carb blowouts. I want to tell myself that it’s now over, and I am on a keto-eating lifestyle.

I also need to eliminate anything that does not add value to my life. I have gotten away from minimalism by adding things to make working remotely easier.

Digital decluttering is a constant struggle. I unsubscribe from mailing lists daily, many of which I did not subscribe to. Spam must work because these sites keep popping up.

My food indulgences include drinking coffee all day and adding Propel powder to my drinking water. Not a fortune, but I could cut back to zero if times get worse.

My recent indulgence with coffee is to drink a dark roast with a bit of heavy whipping cream.

I mix the Propel in a cup now using water from the refrigerator filter instead of bottled water. It’s a small saving but painless.

Getting rid of bottled water could be a minimalist point I will test by practicing poverty.

As a sugar or carb addict, I must go cold turkey as I did with alcohol 29 years ago. Once I give in to the urge for Pop Tarts and ice cream, I eat hundreds of grams of carbs in one sitting and make myself sick.

I might eat 12 ice cream sandwiches or 8 nutty buddies when I give in.

And then eat 8 Pop Tarts at the same time.

I must ensure I am never hungry to cut the carb urges.

Understanding Carb Addiction: Exploring Factors and Approaches for Optimal Human Diet

Introduction:

Some experts consider carbohydrates an essential macronutrient in various foods, including grains, fruits, vegetables, and sugars.

Others point out that carbs are not essential, at least from food. Your body can convert protein into glucose or ketones as needed.

While carbs provide energy and play a crucial role in our daily lives, some individuals may develop a dependence on them, leading to what is commonly referred to as carb addiction. This article will delve into the main factors influencing carbohydrate addiction, examine popular dietary approaches such as keto, paleo, and carnivore, and highlight the tradeoffs and challenges associated with each.

By understanding these factors, we can make informed diet decisions and strive for optimal health.

Understanding Carb Addiction:

Carb addiction, also known as food addiction or sugar addiction, is a controversial topic still being studied. Some researchers argue that certain individuals may have a heightened sensitivity to carbohydrates, leading to overconsumption and difficulty controlling intake. However, it is essential to note that the concept of addiction to food is complex and not yet well-defined in scientific terms.

Carbohydrates and Addiction:

Carbohydrates, particularly those with a high glycemic index, can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels followed by a subsequent crash. This cycle can trigger cravings for more carbohydrates, creating a potential feedback loop contributing to addictive-like behavior.

Processed foods, rich in refined sugars and flours, often trigger these cravings due to their quick absorption and dopamine-releasing properties.

Keto, Paleo, and Carnivore Diets:

Many individuals turn to alternative dietary approaches to address carb addiction and improve overall health. Let’s explore three popular ones: the ketogenic (keto) diet, the paleolithic (paleo) diet, and the carnivore diet.

Keto Diet:

1. The keto diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that aims to shift the body into ketosis. By drastically reducing carb intake, the body uses stored fat as its primary fuel source. The keto diet can help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce cravings, and promote weight loss. However, it requires strict adherence and may be challenging for some individuals due to limited food choices and potential nutrient deficiencies.

Paleo Diet:

1. The paleo diet focuses on consuming foods that mimic those available to our ancestors during the Paleolithic era. It promotes whole, unprocessed foods, including lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, while excluding grains, legumes, and dairy. The paleo diet can effectively reduce carb addiction by eliminating processed foods. However, critics argue that it may restrict important nutrient sources and overlook the significant dietary changes since the Paleolithic era.

Carnivore Diet:

1. A carnivore diet is a revolutionary approach that centers around consuming only animal products, including meat, fish, and animal fats. Proponents claim it can alleviate carb addiction, reduce inflammation, and improve health markers. However, this diet’s long-term sustainability and potential nutritional deficiencies are areas of concern. Considering the potential risks before embarking on such a restrictive plan is essential.

Balancing Factors and Optimal Human Diet:

Achieving an optimal human diet requires balancing various factors, including individual preferences, nutritional needs, cultural considerations, and overall health goals. While some individuals may successfully reduce carb addiction by adopting low-carb or restrictive diets, assessing long-term sustainability, potential nutrient deficiencies, and overall impact on well-being is crucial.

Conclusion:

Carb addiction remains a complex topic, and further research is needed to understand its mechanisms and implications fully. While dietary approaches like the keto, paleo, and carnivore diets have gained popularity, they come with tradeoffs and challenges.

It is vital to make informed decisions about our diets by considering the impact on our health, nutritional needs, and overall well-being. You can find YouTube videos and podcasts for every diet, from Vegan to Carnivore. Study and test what works for you.

Consulting with healthcare professionals and registered dietitians can provide personalized guidance and support in navigating the complexities of carb addiction and achieving an optimal human diet.