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View Full Version : Why do low carb/keto diets make it hard to fall asleep initially?



desibaba
09-16-2009, 11:33 PM
As i found by out last year with Dave's help is that im extremely carb sensitive and lose fat the most when im on a limited carb diet. However during the initial period of the diet i always have a very hard time falling asleep (even when im tired). Exactly what causes this?

Frosty
09-17-2009, 01:42 AM
Probably lower serotonin levels without the carbs.

Avirex
09-17-2009, 02:32 AM
When you are on really low carbs say like 20grams per day. I find the insomnia gets really really bad. I gather its from a survival mechanism in the body. Basically the body wants to stay awake because it senses an imbalance in this case it is in need of carbs and is searching for them.

Frosty
09-17-2009, 02:41 AM
You have to watch what proteins you eat before bed, too. I find I can't sleep well after beef. However chicken, cottage cheese, turkey are fine. A big egg meal gives me wacky dreams. Some proteins are more stimulating than others.