A low-carbohydrate weight-loss method, the Atkins diet encourages people to eat unlimited red meat and dairy products that contain high levels of saturated fat while not restricting calorie intake. However, they must avoid most fruits, vegetables and grains. If you're considering this diet, be aware of the side effects.
Increased Risk of Heart Disease
The Atkins diet emphasizes that participants can eat an unlimited amount of red meat and dairy products that are high in saturated fats. Saturated fats can raise the amount of cholesterol in the blood, according to the American Heart Association. There are two types of cholesterol: LDL or bad cholesterol and HDL or good cholesterol. Saturated fat contributes to the level of bad cholesterol and is only found in animal products.
High cholesterol has been linked to heart disease. It can lead to health consequences such as a heart attack, stroke and hardening of the arteries. The amount of saturated fat you eat should be less than 7 percent of your total diet.
Increased Risk of Colon Cancer
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables has been shown to lower the risk of getting colon cancer. A diet that emphasizes red and processed meat, as the Atkins does, increases your risk of this type of cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.
Red meat is also low in fiber. Because fiber has been shown to lower the risk of colon cancer, consuming large amounts of red meat may contribute to the likelihood of contracting this type of cancer.
Risk of Kidney Stones and Gout; Dizziness, Headaches
Other side effects of the Atkins diet don't pose critical health risks but can be unpleasant and uncomfortable. On this diet, the body burns its fat stores rather than using carbohydrates for energy. As a result, ketosis occurs and the urine becomes more acidic. This poses a risk of kidney stones and gout for those who may be susceptible to these illnesses. In addition, high-protein diets such as Atkins can lead to calcium loss in the body and may even progress to osteoporosis. Other side effects common with this diet include bad breath, dizziness, headaches and constipation.
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