So, you've heard about carb fasting, and you're ready to give it a shot. Maybe you're looking to shed a few pounds, or you want to experience the mental clarity and energy that comes with being in ketosis. Whatever your reason, I'm here to tell you that you're in for a wild ride—but it's totally worth it.
First things first, let's talk about what carb fasting actually is.
Essentially, it means drastically cutting back on your carbohydrate intake for a period of time. This could be a day, a week, or even longer, depending on your goals. I personally carb fast three days a week - Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
When you limit your carbs, your body starts to burn fat for fuel instead of relying on glucose from carbs.
This state is called ketosis, and it's where the magic happens.
Now, I'm not going to sugarcoat it (pun intended). If you've never done it before, the first few days of carb fasting can be rough. Your body is learning how to switch fuel sources. If you're like most people, it has probably never experienced a liver depleted of glyogen stores. Most of us eat carbs so regularly that we are constantly topping off our glycogen stores.
When you first allow your liver to burn through it's glycogen stores, and trend towards empty, you might experience what's known as the "keto flu"—a charming combination of headaches, fatigue, muscle aches, and brain fog. It's your body's way of throwing a temper tantrum because it's not getting its usual dose of carbs.
Trust me, I've been there. When I first started carb fasting, I felt like I'd been hit by a truck around day three. I had a pounding headache, my muscles were sore, and I couldn't string a coherent thought together to save my life.
I felt like I was coming down with the flu and I was tempted to through in the towel.
I was dealing with the Keto Flu.
My body was adapting to the lack of carbs, and it was not a happy camper. I was dehydrated, and I wasn't getting enough fat to keep my body fueled. I felt like I'd made a huge mistake.
But then I remembered the advice I'd read about electrolytes and fat intake.
I whipped up a big glass of water with some electrolyte powder mixed in, and I cooked up the fattiest steak I could find.
And you know what? It worked.
'
Within an hour of downing my electrolyte concoction and savoring that juicy steak, I started to feel human again. The headache faded, my muscles stopped screaming, and the brain fog lifted.
Here's the thing: the keto flu is temporary. It's a sign that your body is adapting to this new way of fueling itself. And with a few simple strategies, you can minimize the symptoms and make the transition to carb fasting a whole lot easier.
First and foremost, hydrate like it's your job.
When you cut carbs, your body starts to flush out a lot of water and electrolytes. This can leave you feeling dehydrated and sluggish. Make sure you're drinking plenty of water throughout the day, and consider adding some electrolytes to your diet.
I like to make a big batch of bone broth and sip on it throughout the day. Not only does it keep me hydrated, but it also provides a nice dose of sodium and other minerals.
Next, don't be afraid of fat. I know, it sounds counterintuitive if you're trying to lose weight. But when you're in ketosis, fat becomes your body's primary fuel source. If you don't eat enough of it, you might find yourself feeling hungry, cranky, and low on energy. Aim for healthy sources of fat like avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish. And don't be shy about adding some butter or olive oil to your veggies. Your brain (and your taste buds) will thank you.
Finally, be patient with yourself. Adapting to carb fasting takes time, and there will be ups and downs along the way. Some days, you'll feel like a superhero. Other days, you might want to face-plant into a bowl of pasta.
That's okay. It will get easier as your body starts to increase its metabolic flexibility.
Remember why you started this journey in the first place, and keep pushing forward. The benefits of carb fasting—like increased energy, better mental clarity, and improved body composition—are worth the temporary discomfort.
Bottom line: if you're struggling with the keto flu, stay hydrated and eat fat.
Remember, the keto flu is just a speed bump on the road to better health. With a little preparation and a lot of self-compassion, you can make it through those first few carbless days and come out the other side feeling like a brand new person.
Ready to Take Your Carb Fasting Journey to the Next Level? Join H40 Today!
If you're feeling inspired to dive deeper into the world of carb fasting and metabolic health, I've got great news for you. Our H40 program is designed to help you optimize your health from every angle—physical, mental, and environmental.
In H40, you'll learn even more strategies for making carb fasting work for you, like how to customize your fasting schedule, what supplements can support your goals, and how to create a fat-fueled lifestyle that you love. Plus, you'll have access to a supportive community of like-minded people who are all working towards better health, just like you.
By joining H40, you'll be equipped with the tools, knowledge, and support you need to navigate the ups and downs of carb fasting with ease. You'll have expert guidance at your fingertips, and you'll be part of a tribe of people who are cheering you on every step of the way.
So, if you're ready to take your health to the next level and experience the life-changing benefits of carb fasting, I invite you to join H40 today. Simply click the link below to learn more and sign up. Your future self (and your metabolic health) will thank you.
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