Low Carb? Thermodynamics?
Thermodynamics is as much about efficiency as it is about energy conservation. Carbohydrate is an efficient fuel, whereas protein is not. On a low carbohydrate/high protein diet, even though total energy is conserved, more energy is wasted as heat, a process known as thermogenesis. This energy comes from burning fat. The human body is not a storage locker. It is a machine and the efficiency of the machine is controlled by hormones and enzymes. Carbohydrates increase insulin and other hormones that regulate enzymes, leading to storage rather than burning of fat.
Low-carb diets limit carbohydrates — for example, rice, bread, grains, starchy vegetables and fruit — and emphasize sources of protein and fat.
Low-carb diets are generally used to lose weight. You might choose this type of diet because you enjoy the types of food featured in the diet.
Carbohydrates raise blood sugar levels, which then kicks the insulin in. The theory behind low-carb diets is that insulin drives blood sugar into the cells and prevents fat breakdown in the body. This means you won't burn excess fat and lose weight.
Carbohydrates raise blood sugar and insulin levels and cause weight gain, a decrease in carbs will result in lower blood sugar and insulin levels, leading to weight loss. And because you're not eating the carbs, your body breaks down fat to provide needed energy.
In general, low-carb diets focus on meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, eggs and some non-starchy vegetables. The diet excludes or limits most grains, beans, fruits, breads, sweets, pastas and starchy vegetables. Some low-carb diet plans allow fruits, vegetables and whole-grains.