...the food you consume on a regular basis, not a short-term change in your eating habits. For me, a low-carb diet works well if I remember to stay hydrated. I don't count calories, but I also don't let myself eat a lot of sweets, either. I just eat lots of meat and leafy greens, and I snack on peanuts, cashews, and pecans. Overall I feel much better when I eat this way, and have even recently noticed a positive effect on my plantar fasciitis. I will admit that I was recently having some abdominal discomfort and was concerned it was kidney-related from eating too much protein, but I think it turned out to be severe constipation, which I tend to deal with on a regular basis. I admittedly don't do a very good job of drinking enough water each day, which doesn't help things.

So, I don't think a low carb diet is a fad. If you subscribe to the thinking that led to the Paleo diet, then it makes sense that the human body hasn't really evolved to consume large amounts of carbohydrates and processed foods, and rather needs protein and greens. I think there is merit to that, and it has worked for me. It may not suit everyone, though. I think you have to try different foods to see what gets you the best results and helps you feel the healthiest.