Hmm, I find that when I do the very low carbohydrate routine I feel run down unless I eat beef with all the fat. It always amazes me that I can pig out on 2 or 3 steaks with the fat, and still be looosing weight. Any way, I suggest eating more meat and fat so you don't feel run down. I immagine the rice and beans have a very big effect since it is very high in carbs. It does seem odd to me that you feel low energy with the rice and beans. They should be boosting your carbs so high you would feel lots of energy. It might be you are a little alergic to them. R. Keene