The Carbohydrate Addict's Diet

1. Carbohydrate addiction is a real physiological disorder

"Car-bo-hy-drate ad-dic-tion: A compelling hunger, craving, or desire for carbohydrate-rich foods; an escalating or recurring need or drive for starches, snack foods, or sweets."

Biological basis. Carbohydrate addiction is not a lack of willpower, but a genuine physiological condition. It affects approximately 75-85% of overweight individuals, causing intense cravings for carbohydrate-rich foods. This addiction is characterized by:

• Frequent focus on eating
• Lack of satisfaction after meals
• Fatigue or tiredness after eating
• Unexplained anxiety or anger
• Heightened emotionality

Scientific recognition. Researchers have been studying food addiction since the 1940s, with carbohydrate addiction specifically identified in the 1960s. Numerous studies published in reputable scientific journals have confirmed the existence of this disorder, linking it to abnormal levels of insulin and neurotransmitters like serotonin.

2. Excess insulin production drives carbohydrate cravings and weight gain

"In carbohydrate addiction, the carbohydrate-insulin/carbohydrate-serotonin connection has gone awry."

Insulin imbalance. Carbohydrate addicts produce excessive amounts of insulin when consuming carbohydrates. This leads to:

• Rapid drop in blood sugar levels
• Intense hunger and cravings shortly after eating
• Difficulty feeling satisfied
• Increased fat storage

Vicious cycle. The more carbohydrates consumed, the more insulin is produced, leading to stronger cravings and potential weight gain. This creates a self-perpetuating cycle that can be difficult to break without addressing the underlying insulin imbalance.

3. The Carbohydrate Addict's Diet allows one "Reward Meal" per day

"At your Reward Meal, you can eat anything you want, in the quantities that satisfy you—and still lose weight (in the short term) and keep it off (in the long term)."

Controlled indulgence. The Reward Meal is a key feature of the diet, allowing carbohydrate addicts to enjoy their favorite foods without guilt. Rules for the Reward Meal:

• Eat anything desired, including carbohydrates
• Must be consumed within a 60-minute window
• Can be scheduled for any meal of the day
• Should be a well-balanced, satisfying meal

Psychological benefits. The Reward Meal helps reduce feelings of deprivation and makes the diet more sustainable long-term. It also helps reset insulin levels when combined with the other low-carb meals throughout the day.

4. Two daily low-carb "Complementary Meals" help reset insulin levels

"Complementary Meal foods may be broiled, boiled, sauteed, baked, poached, roasted, or even fried. However, no breading or batter can be used."

Low-carb focus. Complementary Meals consist of:

• 3-4 ounces of protein (meat, fish, poultry, eggs)
• 2 cups of low-carb vegetables or salad
• Small amounts of healthy fats (oil, butter, cheese)

Insulin regulation. By limiting carbohydrate intake for two meals a day, the body has time to reset insulin levels and reduce cravings. This helps break the cycle of carbohydrate addiction and promotes fat burning.

5. Weighing yourself daily and averaging weekly provides accurate progress tracking

"Averaging your weight allows you to see how much weight you have lost, without being influenced by a particularly high- or low-weight day."

Consistent monitoring. Weigh yourself at the same time each day, preferably in the morning before eating or drinking. Record your weight daily, but focus on the weekly average to assess progress.

Avoiding discouragement. Daily weight fluctuations are normal due to factors like water retention, hormonal changes, and food intake. By averaging your weight weekly, you get a more accurate picture of your overall progress and avoid becoming discouraged by temporary fluctuations.

6. Identifying and preparing for "addiction triggers" is crucial for success

"People, places, situations, stresses, and thoughts: All of these can betray you, undermine your will, and sabotage your diet."

Common triggers:

• Emotional states (stress, anxiety, boredom)
• Social situations (parties, dining out)
• Environmental cues (seeing or smelling food)
• Time of day (late-night cravings)

Preparation strategies:

• Identify personal triggers
• Develop alternative coping mechanisms
• Plan ahead for challenging situations
• Keep low-carb snacks available

7. The diet can be customized to individual needs and health goals

"The Carbohydrate Addict's Diet will help you to change your lifestyle to treat your addiction for the rest of your life."

Flexible approach. The diet offers different plans (A, B, C, D) that can be adjusted based on:

• Rate of weight loss
• Individual health concerns
• Lifestyle factors

Long-term sustainability. By allowing for customization, the diet can be adapted to fit various lifestyles and health needs, making it easier to maintain long-term.

8. Proper meal planning and preparation supports long-term adherence

"By buying the foods you need and preparing the food in advance, you will be able to have the food you need at hand to treat your addiction."

Meal prep benefits:

• Reduces temptation to cheat
• Saves time and reduces stress
• Ensures appropriate food choices are available

Planning strategies:

• Shop weekly with a meal plan in mind
• Prepare and portion meals in advance
• Keep a variety of low-carb options on hand

9. Exercise complements but is not required for the diet's effectiveness

"While exercise may make you feel good, look good, and stay healthy, it is not an integral part of the weight-loss component of this diet."

Focus on diet. The Carbohydrate Addict's Diet primarily works by addressing the underlying insulin imbalance, rather than relying on increased calorie expenditure through exercise.

Health benefits. While not required for weight loss on this diet, regular physical activity is still recommended for overall health, improved mood, and increased energy levels.

10. The diet aims for sustainable, gradual weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week

"At the Carbohydrate Addict's Center we have found that the best weekly rate of loss should be no more than about 1 percent of the dieter's current weight."

Healthy approach. Gradual weight loss is more sustainable and less likely to trigger metabolic adaptations that can hinder long-term success. This approach also helps preserve muscle mass while primarily burning fat.

Realistic expectations. By aiming for 1-2 pounds per week, dieters can set achievable goals and maintain motivation. This rate of loss also allows for easier adaptation to new eating habits and lifestyle changes.

Last updated: January 22, 2025