I am originally from Bangladesh, so rice is the main food as usual, and in great quantity. Wheat being the second main food which is also a carbohydrate based grain.I wanted to lose a bit of fat and I decided to reduce my carbohydrate intake, especially in my last meal and incorporate intermittent fasting (around 14 hour fast).
Typically bengalis a lot of times will eat some animal products (meat, fish or eggs) with a lot of rice. The quantity of rice seems to be more prominent for people who may not have enough animal products to go around. So I see it as an economic solution rather than a health one.
Intermittent fasting fits well into my schedule where I don't have to eat breakfast before work. It was perfect for me.
If I felt too hungry I would consume some type of food with high in fats, such as coffee with cream. Ofcourse in low quantities.
I would have carbohydrates * AFTER * my gym session. It would replace the depleted glycogen in the muscles.
#These were the benefits:
No craving for sugar.
This was great. I never had a massive craving for sugar but with a lower carb higher fat and protein diet I felt even less tempted by the sugary foods.
Felt full longer:
I ate carbohydrates during Sunday and I just felt hungry and hungry. Couldn't go over 3 hours without feeling hungry despite the amount of food.
I like doing intermittent fasting, and this was made easier with lower carbohydrates and higher fats and protein.
No sugar crash, better clarity and mood:
I have been happier on a lower carbohydrate diet. I could concentrate better and felt less sluggish. The difference was significant.
Energy levels were smooth and consistent. I felt good.
I was recomping bit better.
I lost a bit of fat and gained a bit of muscle. Although the changes were very small, my chiropractor noticed it and so did my wife.
The machine in my gym showed my body fat from.19.3% to 16.9%. Granted these machines are not accurate, however if it shows a reduction and I and people around me can see a reduction in fat, then I must have reduced body fat.
I enjoy food more
I have never been a fan of lots of rice. Rice doesn't have any great taste. It's the meat, fish, eggs and dairy along with the spices and seasoning that gave the flavour (at least to me it does). Just look at the picture above and tell me if you don't love it.
I enjoy food with more meat and fish and less rice. It taste much better.
I get less cold and illness
This is the honest truth. I read up that this will be the case but didn't believe it. But I guess it's true for me.
*Disclaimer: this is just what I did and I am not a nutritionist or a doctor. Please do your own research and visit a qualified medical practioner.