Since I’ve gotten into serious cycling and learning about exercise science, I’ve realized how utterly ridiculous and harmful the low carb fad is. Carbs are the most efficient fuel you can give your body and usually the only source of fuel for your brain (by way of glucose). Being in a state of hypoglycemia frequently seems quite bad for normal people and outright dangerous and counterproductive for athletes. Having “bonked” on a few long rides because I didn’t refuel enough on the ride has really driven home the importance of eating carbs for energy. It’s a very unpleasant state to be in. I would never recommend a low carb diet to someone wanting to lose weight. Couple a low carb diet with fasting and exercise and your body will not just get energy from your fat cells, but also your muscles, and it can cause other unwanted outcomes like less healthy skin and hair.