The Carbohydrate Addict's Diet is a specialized weight loss plan that Drs. Richard and Rachael Heller developed. The premise is that many overweight people struggle with cravings for carbohydrates which result in changes in blood sugar and insulin levels. When insulin levels spike, they signal hunger and cause the body to store fat, which can lead to weight gain.
Carbohydrate Addiction
The Hellers viewed the craving for carbohydrates as a physiological response; thus, they devised this diet low on the glycemic index. This includes high-protein and sugar-free or carbohydrate-free foods. On this regimen, the Hellers determined blood sugar levels would undergo no significant changes, thus disrupting and managing cravings.
Diet Guidelines
The Carbohydrate Addict's Diet calls for a restriction of all carbohydrate-rich foods, including starchy vegetables and fruits such as potatoes and bananas. High-protein foods, such as lean meats and fish, low-fat cheeses and milk, nuts, eggs and leafy green vegetables are permissible. It is important to ensure that your protein-rich foods are not high in saturated fats; thus, processed meats such as sausages or ground beef are not recommended.
Weight Loss
Many experience noticeable weight loss within the first few weeks of a low-carb diet. This diet plan is low in calories because the high-protein foods contain less calories than the high-carbohydrate foods. In addition, since protein takes longer to digest, you're likely to feel fuller longer and likely eat less. As with any diet, weight loss depends on burning more calories than you consume; thus, exercise is recommended for a minimum of 30 minutes daily.
Expert Insights
High-protein, low-carbohydrate diets can be difficult to maintain over the long term, according to the Mayo Clinic. The lack of fiber typically causes constipation and gastrointestinal issues that increase in severity the longer the body process high-protein foods without the aid of fiber. In addition, this diet plan does not meet the basic guidelines for balanced nutrition as set forth in the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Guide Pyramid. As such, it is not medically recommended for long-term use and is not considered a healthy lifestyle option.
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