Starting a low-carb diet: 5 steps for success

### **Starting a Low-Carb Diet: 5 Steps for Success | BluePillExpress**

Switching to a **low-carb diet** can help with **weight loss, energy levels, and overall health**—but starting the right way is key! Follow these **five simple steps** to set yourself up for success with **BluePillExpress** by your side.

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### **1️⃣ Understand Your Carb Limit**
📉 Not all low-carb diets are the same—choose the one that fits your goals:
✅ **Keto (Very Low-Carb):** 20–50g net carbs per day
✅ **Moderate Low-Carb:** 50–100g net carbs per day
✅ **Flexible Low-Carb:** 100–150g net carbs per day

💡 **BluePillExpress Tip:** Net carbs = Total Carbs – Fiber. Focus on **whole, unprocessed foods** to stay within your limit.

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### **2️⃣ Stock Up on Low-Carb Essentials**
🛒 Make sure your kitchen is filled with **nutrient-dense, low-carb foods**:
✔ **Proteins:** Chicken, beef, eggs, fish, tofu
✔ **Healthy Fats:** Avocados, nuts, olive oil, coconut oil
✔ **Low-Carb Veggies:** Spinach, broccoli, zucchini, cauliflower
✔ **Dairy:** Greek yogurt, cheese, cream

🚫 Avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and high-carb grains.

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### **3️⃣ Cut Out High-Carb Foods Gradually**
❌ Reducing carbs too fast can cause **keto flu (fatigue, headaches, cravings)**. Instead:
📆 Slowly reduce **bread, pasta, rice, and sugary drinks** over a few weeks.
🥦 Replace them with **veggies, proteins, and healthy fats**.

💡 **BluePillExpress Tip:** Try **cauliflower rice** or **zucchini noodles** as low-carb swaps!

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### **4️⃣ Stay Hydrated & Get Enough Electrolytes**
💧 Lower carb intake means **less water retention**, which can lead to dehydration.
✅ Drink plenty of **water, herbal tea, or electrolyte-infused drinks**.
✅ Add **sodium (salt), potassium (avocados), and magnesium (nuts, seeds)** to prevent cramps and fatigue.

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### **5️⃣ Plan & Track Your Meals for Success**
📊 **Tracking helps you stay accountable**—use an app like MyNetDiary.
🍽 **M