Low Carb Diets Explained

Understanding the spectrum of carbohydrate-restricted eating approaches

Find Your Optimal Approach

FitZone Medical Clinic

2064 Park St., Jacksonville, FL 32204

904-515-3570

The Low Carb Spectrum

Low carbohydrate diets exist on a spectrum, from moderate carbohydrate reduction to very restrictive approaches. Each level offers different benefits and may be appropriate for different health goals and individual needs.

Medical Note: Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new dietary approach, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or take medications.

Diet Comparison at a Glance

Diet Type Daily Carbs Protein Fat Primary Focus
Low Carb 50-130g Moderate Moderate Weight management
Keto 20-50g Moderate High Therapeutic ketosis
Ketovore 0-30g High High Animal-focused keto
Carnivore 0-10g High Moderate-High Elimination diet

Detailed Diet Breakdown

Low Carb Diet

50-130g net carbs per day
Beginner Friendly

Carbohydrate Intake:

Restrictive Moderate Liberal

What to Eat:

  • Non-starchy vegetables
  • Lean proteins
  • Some fruits (berries)
  • Healthy fats

Best For:

Weight maintenance, sustainable lifestyle, diabetes management

Ketogenic Diet

20-50g net carbs per day
Metabolic Health

Carbohydrate Intake:

Restrictive Moderate Liberal

What to Eat:

  • High healthy fats (70-80%)
  • Moderate protein (20-25%)
  • Very low carb vegetables
  • No grains, sugars, most fruits

Best For:

Rapid weight loss, epilepsy, neurological conditions, insulin resistance

Ketovore Diet

0-30g net carbs per day
Animal-Based

Carbohydrate Intake:

Restrictive Moderate Liberal

What to Eat:

  • Primarily animal foods
  • Some low-carb plant foods
  • Meat, fish, eggs, dairy
  • Occasional avocado, olives

Best For:

Autoimmune issues, digestive problems, simplified eating

Carnivore Diet

0-10g net carbs per day
Elimination

Carbohydrate Intake:

Restrictive Moderate Liberal

What to Eat:

  • Only animal products
  • Meat, fish, eggs
  • Some dairy (optional)
  • No plant foods

Best For:

Severe autoimmune conditions, food sensitivities, elimination protocol

Which Diet is Right For You?

Consider Your Goals

  • Weight loss: Keto or Low Carb
  • Mental clarity: Keto or Ketovore
  • Food sensitivities: Carnivore or Ketovore
  • Metabolic health: Keto or Low Carb

Consider Your Lifestyle

  • Ease of maintenance: Low Carb
  • Plant foods important: Low Carb or Keto
  • Quick results: Keto or Carnivore
  • Long-term sustainability: Low Carb or Keto

Transitioning Between Diets

Starting Tips

  • Start with Low Carb before progressing to stricter diets
  • Gradually reduce carbohydrates over 1-2 weeks
  • Increase salt and water intake during transition
  • Listen to your body and adjust as needed

Common Challenges

  • "Keto flu" - temporary fatigue and headaches
  • Digestive changes as your microbiome adapts
  • Cravings for carbohydrates in the first week
  • Social situations and eating out

Ready to Find Your Optimal Diet?

Work with our medical team to determine which low-carb approach aligns best with your health goals, lifestyle, and individual needs.

Call 904-515-3570 Keto Food Guide

FitZone Medical Clinic • 2064 Park St., Jacksonville, FL 32204