Researchers, authors and physicians have begun to recommend high-protein diets to help people lose weight. Some of the more popular diets include the Sugar Busters, Atkins, Stillman and South Beach diets. The diets cause a quick drop in weight because eliminating carbohydrates causes a loss of body fluids and prevents the body from completely burning fat. But these diets have other effects, aside from inducing quick weight loss.
Ketosis
High-protein diets emphasize eating large amounts of food that are high in protein, such as meat, eggs and cheese. The diet also restricts carbohydrates, such as cereals, fruits and vegetables. Metabolism of proteins produces a chemical called ketone. According to the American Heart Association, ketone causes a decreased appetite and may also cause nausea. According to Vanderbilt University, other symptoms of ketosis include feelings of sluggishness and fatigue as well as low energy level, constipation, gas and excess protein in the body.
Fat Intake
Eating excess amounts of protein can also increase other health risks, according to the American Heart Association. High-protein animal foods are usually high in saturated fats as well. An intake of high saturated fats over a sustained period of time can also increase the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes and several types of cancers. A reduction in high-carbohydrate, high-fiber plant foods will also increase the risk of high cholesterol and increase the risk of cardiovascular problems.
Bone Loss and Kidney Stones
Eating large amounts of protein may place individuals at higher risk of kidney and liver disorders and osteoporosis, according to the American Heart Association. In a study published in Kidney International in 2003, researchers found that high-protein diets contributed to the development of kidney stones and bone loss in lab rats. Researchers believe that this model may help identify the mechanisms through which high protein intake increases the risk of kidney-stone formation and bone loss in humans.
Thermogenesis and Satiety
Thermogenesis is the generation of heat within the body, which may increase metabolic rate. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that diets high in protein had an increased weight loss and fat loss as well as an increase in thermogenesis and feelings of satisfaction after eating a meal.
References
- American Heart Association: High-Protein Diets
- Vanderbilt University: The Low Down on Low-Carbohydrate Diets
- Kidney International: Effect of High Protein Diet on Stone-Forming Propensity and Bone Loss in Rats
- Journal of the American College of Nutrition: The Effects of High Protein Diets on Thermogenesis, Satiety and Weight Loss: A Critical Review
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