Vegetarian diet vs Low-Carb diet - Which is Better?

Hi, I'm 5'3 and at 130 pounds. I have put on 20 pounds in the last 3 months because I wasn't careful with what I eat. Now, I would like to lose the extra weight. I have 2 friends who managed to lose quite abit of weight each. One practices a Vegetarian diet where she only consumes fruits, vegetables and maybe some tofu, soyamilk and bread etc. On the other hand, a 2nd friend is on a very low/no carb diet eating mainly lean proteins, occasionally indulging in red meats. I am quite confused as both diets are the exact opposites of each other. The low-carb diet does not advocate high carbs, but my vegetarian friend is losing weight from consuming nothing but carbs. Why is that so?
On the other hand, my low-carb friend is losing weight too (like some people on this forums on SB and Kimkins). So, which is the better and healthier diet I should follow?
Also, how long is a good timeline for me to determine whether a diet is working for me? How long into a diet to see weight loss?

Vegetarian is more healthy..low carb is dangerous over time. Just be sure that you eat plenty of beans, tofu and other protein sources and you will be fine. Weigh yourself before you start..and then once a week after that. How quick depends on many things, including exercise and metabolism...Give it a couple of weeks to see anything.

I tried both diets and I don't feel hungry on the vegetarian diet like I do on the low carb diet. Also on the low carb diet you don't #2 for weeks. It is really uncomfortable. The vegetarian diet you do this all the time and have allot more food options to choose from.

A vegetarian diet is the best way to go - the proof is that over time, you can be veggie for your whole life and remain healthy. Low-carb diets are temporary. You can be vegetarian and still eat dairy and fish. That's what I do.

Being vegetarian pretty much forces you to cut out soda, fast food and almost all restaurant food, unless you're at a place specifically for vegetarians. Even french fries have beef fat in them.

Also remember that being vegetarian doesn't give you permission to eat cheese pizza all day long. Your friend should not be consuming so many carbs!

Why are you trying to lose so much weight? You will not be happy no matter how skinny you become. You are definitely not fat. You need to seek counselling as to why you feel the way you do. Also drink apple cider vinegar in a glass of water to get all the 93 vitamins and minerals you need daily. Just 2 tbls. 2-3 times per day. Please work on your inner self image. Not just the outside.

its eating the bad carbs mixed with the protein that makes you fat. eating the lean meats with fruits vegetables and the good carbs are the way to go that is eating very healthy of course with excersize and lots of water!! yes you can lose weight their way but your not getting all your nutrition you need with one or the other. i hope ive helped.its soppose to be a life change not a diet. you start a "diet" lose all the weight you need then go back to old habits and gain it all back. good luck!!!

How about vegetarian low carb diet??? I have a co-worker who is vegetarian...and obese (over 300lbs). I see him eating pasta, rice and bread all the time...maybe that's why he's so big...? Anyway, in my opinion, being a vegetarian has nothing to do with weight loss.

people tend to put carbs in one catagory,there are simple carbs which you dont even have to look for any processed food will have some in it(sugar and starchy sweets, pasta ,doughnuts etc...complex carbs on the other hand wil give your body the nutrition it needs and when u are getting the right foods you dont get that hungry feeling even if you do get hungry in between which may happen while your body is going through this transition,,snack on whole grains and fruits and vegies,you cant get too many if you eat the right stuff you body will thank you in ways you wont even know,just remember there are no short cuts or easy ways to be healthy it takes knowlege and discipline

mayo clinic plan or body for life