I have been cycling for awhile, but not too much recently because it's been way too hot and humid. So I haven't done much more than small 3-5 mile trips since my LCing really got going.

This morning I went for a ride, about 10 miles. At about the 1/2 way point I stopped to take in some scenery in the park I was passing through. As soon as I stopped riding, I instantly became lightheaded and my vision was blotchy. I was unstable on my feet. I sat down for a few minutes and drank some water. When I felt better, I stood up and the sensation immediately returned. After about 10 minutes of trying to rid myself of this feeling, I finally got back on my bike and continued riding. The dizziness stopped once I was riding again, and didn't return until I got home and got off my bike again.

I ate a little before I left because I didn't want to ride on an empty stomach (celery sticks and veggie cream cheese). I have never felt that sensation from riding and I'm left wondering if it was because my body didn't have carbs/sugar to burn as quick fuel. A few months ago I rode 16 miles without problem and do remember having a few more carbs that day before my ride, thinking I would burn them right off anyway.

Has anyone else experienced this? Is it a direct result of not having enough carbs in my system?

TIA

Drew,

I cycle a lot and have not had the problem that you describe. Try upping your potassium intake and see if that makes a difference.

I agree with Mike...sounds like electrolyte depletion. You could try adding some protein to your pre-ride meal, as well.

Carbs are necessary for lifting and intense cardio like sprinting, but for long duration work, fat does quite well for providing fuel, once you're adapted.

How long have you been low carbing?

Started LCing just after Memorial Day, this year. I am also on medication for high blood pressure, which I started taking around the same time, but I never had a problem before the med or after I started taking it, so I doubt it's that. Was riding at least 3x/week until it got stinkin' hot here.

Possible dehydration? I did have a few vodka drinks the night before, now that I think about it.

Have you had your bp checked lately? I had to cut my bp dose in half after a few months on LC (with the ultimate goal of being off the meds completely). Cycling is my chosen form of exercise and I've never had the problems you're describing either so I doubt it's carb/LC related.

Or the dehydration is a possibility as well. Actually, everything mentioned is possible.

If I were you, I would drink a big glass of OJ..that will solve all the bonking you are experienceing during your wokouts.