Blaine's Low-Carb Diet

Blaine's Low-Carb Diet
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Blaine's low-carb diet is based on a FitTV television series called "Blaine's Low-Carb Kitchen." Blaine Jelus, the chef and host of the show, teaches viewers how to cook low-carb meals step-by-step. This diet is one of the many types of low-carbohydrate diets. What sets Blaine's low-carb diet apart from other low-carb diets is that Jelus shows you how to make the food. Keep in mind that there are potential long-term health risks associated with low-carb diets. Do not start this diet without your doctor's consent.

Features

This diet is based off of Blaine Jelus's television show, where he cooks foods that are low in carbohydrates. Dieters who are on a low-carb eating plan can learn how to cook these foods and incorporate them into daily meals. Jelus also teaches portion control on his show. DietSpotlight.com says that Blaine Jelus also offers an online outlet where users can download recipes, watch cooking videos and participate in a forum with other low-carb dieters. This diet does not offer an exercise plan, which is a key component to long-term weight maintenance and overall health.

Effects

The majority of the calories in your diet are derived from fats and carbohydrates. By using Blaine's low-carb recipes, you will undoubtedly lose weight, because you will cut calories from your diet. Weight loss from this diet can decrease your risks of obesity-related problems, such as high cholesterol. According to FamilyDoctor.org, common side effects of low-carb diets include headaches, dizziness, insomnia and gastrointestinal problems.

Considerations

Low-carb diets are often initially more effective than low-fat diets, in terms of the amount of weight lost. However, FamilyDoctor.org says that you will likely hit a weight loss plateau after six months of being on a low-carb diet. Since you lose a large amount of weight from significant calorie-reduction, your metabolism is disrupted, preventing further weight loss. This is why slow weight loss of 1 to 2 lbs. a week is more effective in the long-run. Gradual weight loss is best achieved through a low-fat diet. Blaine's low-carb diet will likely deprive your body of some vitamins and minerals found in whole grains and other carbohydrates. FamilyDoctor.org recommends that you take a fiber supplement and a multivitamin while on a low-carb diet.

Precautions

Low-carb diets, such as Blaine's, are not proven safe. Carbohydrates provide fiber and other nutrients that you may lose on this diet. MayoClinic.com explains that the types of food you choose on a low-carb diet can have more adverse than healthy effects. For example, eating high-protein foods in the form of red meats and other fatty foods can contribute to high blood cholesterol and heart disease.

References

Article reviewed by Christine Brncik Last updated on: Mar 14, 2011

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