What�s Wrong with the NEW High-Protein, Low-Carbohydrate Diets???
Because New Year�s Day resolutions and "dieting season" are just around the corner, you may be hearing of more and more people attempting to lose weight by following high protein, low carbohydrate diets such as the Atkins or the South Beach diets. Before you try these for yourself, consider the following research compiled by the University of Missouri Outreach and Extension Service:

1. High-protein diets are NOT new!
Dr. Atkins, for example, was around in the 1970s. The diet didn�t work then, and it doesn�t work now. Weight loss occurs as a result of eating fewer calories�it�s that simple.. And, it�s the weight loss, not the high-protein, that results in improvements in blood lipids (cholesterol, triglycerides).

2. High-protein diets are High in Fat.
Meat and dairy products contain saturated fats which raise blood cholesterol. The American Heart Association recommends limiting saturated fat.

3. High-protein diets place extra stress on the kidneys.
When protein is broken down in the body, the kidneys process the by-products. Individuals with diabetes or reduced kidney function are advised against a diet rich in animal protein.

4. Not a single health association in the World recommends eating less carbohydrate and more protein and fat.
On the contrary, the World Heath Organization, National Cancer Institute and American Heart Association all recommend eating more fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains. Hundreds of studies show that populations who eat more of these foods have lower risk for heart disease and certain cancers.

5. High-protein diets can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Eating lots of animal protein, in particular, can increase calcium loss from the body. The risk is especially great when calcium intake is inadequate. Most Americans do not consume enough calcium.

6. High-protein, low-carbohydrate diets lack critical nutrients; supplements may not replace them all.
Plant-based foods, which are rich in carbohydrates, are also rich in "phytochemicals." These plant compounds are powerful anti-oxidants, and offer protection against disease. It is always better to get health-promoting nutrients from foods, not supplements.

7. High-protein diets are low in fiber.
Fiber is found in plant-based foods. It is the term given for the part of the plant that we cannot digest. Fiber is critical in preventing constipation, and promoting colon and heart health.

8. High-protein diets don�t provide enough muscle fuel.
One proven key to health and longevity is regular physical activity. However, carbohydrate is the main fuel for muscles and the only fuel used by the brain. If we don�t eat enough carbohydrate, out bodies enter a state of "ketosis," in which the body forms substances called "ketones." Ketones dull the appetite and may cause nausea, and bad breath. Ketosis increases blood levels of uric acid, a risk factor for gout and kidney stones in some people. We need to eat at least 100 grams of carbohydrate each day to prevent ketosis. If we don�t eat enough, we are likely to feel weak, dizzy, and tired. We may also experience headaches and dehydration. We�ll hardly feel like enjoying pleasurable physical activities.

Bottom line:
We have to burn 3500 calories to lose a pound of fat. Fast weight loss (more than 1 to 2 pounds per week) reflects water�not fat�loss. Best bet: Eat well and enjoy exercise daily.

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