Does metabolism slow when following a low carb plan?
When individuals follow very low-calorie diets their basal metabolic rate will slow to compensate for the low caloric intake. This is the body’s survival response to conserve in the absence of an adequate food intake. If someone is following the Atkins protocol correctly, he or she should not be taking in fewer than 1,200 calories daily. Most people eat more calories and still lose weight on Atkins. This energy supply should not cause a drop in the metabolic rate, but rather maintain the rate while using primarily fat instead of carbohydrate as fuel. Be aware that any plan that causes a rapid weight loss may not be the best for the long term. Losing gradually gives time for the needed behavioral changes that must occur to develop a lifestyle for long term success. It is also important to eat regularly, especially breakfast, and participate in regular exercise to maintain the metabolic rate. Note that as one loses fat mass it takes less to maintain a much smaller body, so be sure to adj
