About High Protein And Low Carb Diet

Dieting trends and theories are abundant and often overwhelm the average person who wants to lose weight and get into shape. People gravitate toward quick-fix solutions and the high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet is a leading approach to obtain results. This approach often is the subject of discussion and debate. However, the smartest consumers know that the key to any diet is choosing one that works best for you.

History

The first well-known high protein, low carb diet appeared in 1967 and in the book, "The Doctor's Quick Inches Off Diet," by Irwin Maxwell Stillman, M.D., published in 1969. In the 1970's, Dr. Robert C. Atkins developed the Atkins diet. While the Atkins diet provides rapid weight loss, there have been debates about increased cardiac and cancer risks related to the program.

High-Protein, Low-Carb Theory

The traditional high-protein, low-carbohydrate plan restricts carbohydrates and fat intake dramatically, while people spread protein over six meals a day to push the body into a ketogenic state to burn fat instead of carbohydrates. When the body is receivedh fewer carbs, it must look elsewhere for other sources of energy, and the next source is fat. This results in the rapid loss of fat.

Food Plan

A strict diet high in protein and low in carbs generally allows a person all lean red meats, seafood, poultry, turkey, eggs and low-fat cheese. Fruits, vegetables, grains, sugar, alcohol, fats, oils and butter are forbidden. Some variations allow for the addition of vegetables and fruits back into the diet, as well as a limited amount of oils and butter.

Food Plan Variations

Several high-protein, low-carb diets go beyond the traditional ones. These other plans allow fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and legumes. The focus is on decreased carbohydrates and healthy food intake from a variety of proteins, both animal and plant.

Animal Versus Plant Protein

A major concern with the traditional high-protein, low-carb diet is the increase of fatty meats, butter and foots high in saturated fats, as well as a restricted vegetable and fruit intake. Harvard's Nutrition Source advises consumers to "pay attention to what comes along with the protein in your food choices. Vegetable sources of protein, such as beans, nuts, and whole grains are excellent choices, and they offer healthy fiber, vitamins, and minerals."

The Bottom Line

Many health experts agree on one basic fact--too many calories causes weight gain. The high-protein, low-carb diet can be a healthy alternative to rapid weight loss. The newest variations encourage moderation and the consumption of both animal and plant proteins.