The Atkins diet is a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet. It emphasizes eating high-fat and high-protein foods while restricting fruits, vegetables, grains and dairy products. It progresses from very restrictive carbohydrate intake of fewer than 20g daily during the initial phase, 40g to 60g during the ongoing weight loss phase, and eventually up to 100g during the lifetime maintenance phase. This diet can be effective, but there are risks.
High Protein and High Cholesterol
The recommended protein intake on the Atkins diet is nearly twice the recommended daily allowance (RDA), according to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition (JACN) in 2000. Eating large amounts of animal protein is associated with higher risk for heart disease. Additionally, the Atkins diet encourages high intake of saturated fats, which can lead to high cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is linked to cardiovascular disease. After four weeks on the Atkins diet, average weight loss was about 9 lbs., but total cholesterol levels increased, according to a study cited in the JACN research. The JACN study authors estimate long-term use of this diet could raise cholesterol levels by 25 percent.
Lack of Nutrition
Because the Atkins diet restricts intake of fruits, vegetables and grains, it doesn't provide sufficient amounts of certain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, according to the JACN study. People who eat large amounts of these foods generally have a significant decrease in their risk of cancer and coronary heart disease, a narrowing of the small blood vessels that carry oxygen and blood to the heart.
Cancer Risk
Increased intake of animal products combined with reduced intake of fresh fruits and vegetables may significantly increase the risk of various types of cancer, according to medical doctor Joel Fuhrman. Fuhrman notes that a diet high in saturated fat is linked to a greater risk of lung cancer in non-smokers, and that heavy meat consumption is linked to a greater risk of colon cancer. The Atkins diet is especially problematic. It's not only high in saturated fat but restricts fruits and vegetables associated with lower cancer risk.
Diabetes Risk
The Atkins diet is high in fat, low in fiber. High fat intake seems to increase the risk of coronary heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, according to the JACN study. High-fat diets also are linked to insulin resistance, another factor leading to Type 2 diabetes.
Contraindications
The Atkins diet can pose dangers for people with certain health conditions, as explained by the Mayo Clinic. People with severe kidney disease should not follow this diet, and it may not be appropriate for diabetes patients. People prone to gout also may have problems with the Atkins diet, as high meat intake is associated with gout.
Member Comments