How Many Carbs Can We ‘Get Away With?’
/Weight Loss Fluctuations (5.26.2025 to 6.1.2025)
When we undertake something new, a change to our long-time habits or beliefs, we often have opposing forces speak to us, sometimes offering unsolicited opinions. People occasionally pipe in, buttinskies who appear compelled to share what they consider sage advice on issues that concern them not at all. However, there are also our in-house voices that sound like opposing counsel in a courtroom, telling us antithetical suggestions.
"Do this!" … "No, don't ever do that!" … "You've been doing so well. You don't need that cookie." ... "Aw, go ahead. Just one won't hurt. Plus, you deserve it!"
We can call the voice that tempts us to do things we know we oughtn't to do cute names, which might make it easier to ignore what it is: our excuse-maker. The image of an angel on one shoulder whispering encouragement and inspiration while the little devil on the other side picks at us, trying to appeal to our insecurities and baser impulses. But that little imp, nattering away, teasing us that doing the right thing is for losers, isn't adorable. That voice is a jerk. I know of what I speak. I employed that miserable rationalization monster for so many years it's owed a pension. Listen, it's a challenge to filter out the messages that don't serve us well. It's tempting to follow Beelzebub, who offers an easy way out, instead of sucking it up, getting a grip, rolling up our shirtsleeves—or whatever phrase works—and doing the work. Listening to the message that "Staying the straight and narrow never works. Don't be a chump" can lead us to let ourselves off the hook. What we need to heed is, "C'mon, you can do this thing. Changing course can be scary, but rewards lay ahead."
Being brave is the opposite of taking the easy way out. All this is to point out that we can easily adopt a frame of mind where we wonder, 'What can I get away with?' rather than 'What's the best way to get where I want to be?'
These questions don't apply solely to food choices; they also apply to other aspects of life. Can you predict the success rate of a committed romance where one party thinks, "What's the least effort I can put into this relationship?" or "How much running around on my partner can I get away with?"
But on a less touchy topic, think of this scenario: One is having financial issues due to having engaged in too much retail therapy (a euphemism for buying binges that max out credit cards) and decides to manage things. The first step, of course, is to stop buying things one doesn't need and can't afford. Next, pay off those plastic enablers. With firm resolve, the commitment is made."I'm dedicated to managing my finances. I pay the minimum due! Yay me! "
However, if the true goal is to get out from under the weight of debt (see where I'm going with this?), paying only the minimum monthly payment won't do the trick. It may allow you to tell yourself you're fixing things, but, unfortunately, paying the least you can means those cards will have balances into the next century. Sorry, but that's the math. We can tell ourselves we're serious about changing, but we may merely be trying to get away with something—danged Devil.
[To be fair, there are times when our immediate needs exceed our current assets. Credit is a blessing in such cases, and most of us have been there. However, charging a Coach handbag because there isn't enough money in the checking account to cover the cost isn't the same thing. Let's not get it twisted. Okay, the editorial perspective is over ...]
So, if we start following the ketogenic diet for better health, to lose weight, to feel better, to avoid chronic illnesses, or whatever our motivations are, we shouldn't start by asking how many carbs we can get away with eating. In essence, that's asking what's the least effort I can put into this very important endeavor. We've all known people who live by the notion of doing less and hoping it will result in more. Let's not be one of those people. Concentrate not on what you can get away with but on what you need. There's a difference.
Let's tell El Diablo to shut up and take a hike. In turn, we can nurture the messages from the cherub who murmurs in our ear and who wants only the best for us. Focusing on the results we want as opposed to getting one over on the Universe is the trick.
As always, and in all sincerity, I assure you that if I can do this, you can do this.
I promise.
Disclaimer: I’m not a medical doctor, researcher, or Ph.D., but instead, I’ve been fortunate to have had the time and resources to research the ketogenic diet, also known as LCHF (low carb/high fat). The information I share is based solely on my understanding of that research. We are all responsible for our own choices, including what we put in our mouths, and there’s no substitute for each of us checking things out ourselves. And I’m not a medical professional in any way. Go Keto With Casey is not a medical site. “Duh,” you might say. But best to make it clear to all. I welcome questions, comments, and even civil criticism. I’m still learning. So, if you have something to add, go for it. Links in this post and all others may direct you to affiliate links, where I will receive a small amount of the purchase price of any items you buy through those links. Thanks!
