Trying to Go Low Carb, But Need Energy for the Gym

Hello everyone…

I’m a 52-year-old male, weighing 247 lbs and standing at 6’4" with a waist size of 38". I’m trying to lose my belly, and I’m considering a low-carb diet, but I don’t want to go all the way to ketosis because I take certain medications that might not work well if I do.

I plan to hit the gym 4 to 5 times a week, doing 30 minutes of cardio for 5 days and strength training on 3 of those days. One concern I have is that I might feel low on energy while going low carb.

What do you think of my plan? How can I avoid fatigue during my workouts without relying too heavily on stimulants, especially since I have high blood pressure? :wink:

Your plan sounds well-structured and balanced, focusing on both diet and exercise, which is great for losing belly fat and improving overall health. Adopting a low-carb diet without reaching ketosis can still be effective; just ensure you include enough protein and healthy fats to maintain energy levels. To avoid fatigue during workouts, focus on nutrient-dense foods that provide sustained energy, like leafy greens, lean proteins, and whole grains in moderation. Staying hydrated is also crucial, as dehydration can exacerbate fatigue. You might also consider timing your carbohydrate intake around your workouts to fuel your exercise without spiking your blood sugar. Incorporating ample sleep and managing stress can further help with energy levels. Monitoring how your body responds and adjusting as needed will help you maintain energy and stay on track with your fitness goals.

Using both cardio and strength training is an effective approach to reducing belly fat. To maintain energy on a low carb diet, incorporate nutrient rich foods such as leafy greens, avocados and nuts. These options offer steady energy without causing blood sugar spikes.

Hi there! I’m a 52-year-old male, 6’4" and 247 lbs, with a 38" waist, looking to lose my belly. I’ve decided to try a low-carb diet but avoid full ketosis due to medication concerns. I’m planning to hit the gym 4-5 times a week, combining 30 minutes of cardio for 5 days and strength training on 3 of those days. My worry is feeling low on energy with a low-carb diet, especially since I have high blood pressure and want to avoid stimulants. From my experience and understanding, a balanced approach could work well. Incorporate healthy fats and moderate protein to maintain energy levels, and consider timing your carb intake around workouts to avoid fatigue. Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep can also help manage energy levels and blood pressure.