Less Carbs...it makes sense

I learned of a product called VESPA from a friend.  I am distrustful of most things, so I've been reading about the product, talking to others who use it, and talking to Peter from VESPA not only about the product, but the health benefits of a low-carb lifestyle.  The idea behind VESPA is that it works by encouraging your muscles to metabolize fat, rather than depleting your stored glycogen.  I'd like to burn the hell out of my fat stores!  The benefits are said to be that you will not hit the wall, you will have more mental clarity, and faster recovery with lower levels of muscle soreness.  This all sounds good to me.

When Peter started talking to me about the benefits of a low-carb higher fat diet what came to mind was the Atkins diet fad.  But, I've been reading the studies and science behind the idea and it kind of makes sense.  Though, it is a lifestyle change, not a "diet".  I have a lot more reading to do and many more questions to ask, but the one thing Peter said that stuck was this:

Glucose is one of the most tightly controlled substances in our bloodstream. If one does the math the body likes to have what amounts to 1 teaspoon of free glucose in circulation when blood sugar is normal and stable......eat a bagel and you just dumped 8 teaspoons into your blood and that is a toxic level your body has to deal with...it does so using insulin as the primary modulator to facilitate this but by doing so you turn off fat burn and then are dependent upon the glucose......over time this insulin load rises creating insulin resistance and even more dependence upon glucose and less ability to burn fat so not only are you finding your energy levels all over the map and needing to eat every few hours when sedentary but also things like weight gain and mood swings...

I am no scientist but I am going to experiment with this low-carb / higher fat lifestyle for a bit to see what comes of it.  I recently had my annual blood work done - maybe I'll have it re-done after a few months of this to see if there are any noticeable differences.  I am going to use the VESPA during my upcoming runs and see how I feel.  I'll be starting this weekend at the St. Pat's 24 hour.

I feel like I have been at a stand still with my weight and fitness level for some time now.  I am excited to learn and try new things in order to move ahead.  These dietary changes, along with the coaching and ass kicking from Jeff and his ILP, will hopefully be the kick start my body needs.  I will put it all to the test come January 19th.  Bring on the HURT!

Elevation profile of the 20 mile loop.