Protein Controlled Diet Foods

Protein Controlled Diet Foods
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Special diet plans are designed for numerous reasons such as weight loss or the management of specific diseases. For example, the high-protein low-carbohydrate diet became popular in the 1970s for fast weight loss results. Since that time, protein controlled diets have been used by registered dietitians and physicians with specific amounts of protein and foods included in each diet plan.

Types

Protein is a macronutrient found naturally in meat and dairy products along with small amounts found in vegetables, fruits and grains. Meat sources with significant amounts of protein include fish, poultry, beef and pork. While these foods contain significant amounts of protein, some protein sources should be avoided. According to the Ohio State University Medical Center, someone on a protein controlled diet should avoid salt cured meats, canned or processed meat and salted nuts.

Function

Controlled protein diets have several functions based on the nutritional demands of the individual. For example, some diets control protein foods to promote a reduction in body fat that leads to weight loss while individuals with diseases such as kidney disease need to control protein intake. By controlling protein intake, foods such as pasta, bread, potatoes, fruit and refined sugars are typically restricted.

Features

Protein plays an important role in several body functions and is crucial to the development of muscle and tissues. During the breakdown of protein, waste such as urea is produced that can be difficult to remove for someone suffering from kidney malfunction or disease. Choosing the correct protein controlled diet foods are crucial for these individuals.

Size

A high protein diet can violate the nutritional and dietary guidelines from the USDA and American Heart Association. A general recommendation for average adults is to consume about 60 to 80 g of protein per day or about 1 g of protein per kilogram of bodyweight. Meat sources contain 7 g of protein per ounce and should be weighed after cooking and removing excess fat, skin and bone. One-half of a chicken breast, for example, contains about 2 oz.

Effects

While high-protein and controlled protein diets have several functions and benefits, they can also result in several side effects. Most of the weight loss that results from a high-protein controlled diet is from water loss and may result in inadequate consumption of fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.

References

Article reviewed by James Dryden Last updated on: Nov 23, 2010

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