Although some believe that Dr. Robert Atkins was the forefather of the low-carb diet, Dr. Irwin Maxwell Stillman predated him by several years. Stillman's "The Doctor's Quick Weight Loss Diet" debuted in 1967. It differs somewhat from more recent diets that restrict carbohydrates. It's a radical approach that might not be right for everyone, and its author notes that you should check with your physician before attempting it.
Method
Stillman's diet prohibits virtually all carbohydrates. You can't have grains, pasta, bread, fruits, vegetables, sugar, oil or butter. The entire diet consists of protein, but Stillman does differentiate between good fats and bad ones. His diet limits you to seafood, lean meat, eggs, low-fat cheese, chicken and turkey, but you must remove the skin before eating poultry. You should eat six small meals over the course of a day, rather than three large ones. Stillman indicates that this will urge your body into burning your fat for energy rather than carbohydrates.
Disadvantages
The Harvard School of Public Health warns that as of 2011, no research has identified the ultimate risks of a diet void of carbohydrates. In the short term, however, if you eliminate fruits, vegetables and grains from your diet, you will get no fiber. This will likely result in constipation. Nor can you receive all the vitamins and minerals your body needs on a daily basis through protein alone. The Franklin Institute points out that your brain requires more energy than any of your other cells, and it needs glucose to supply that energy. Your body converts glucose from carbohydrates, so Stillman's diet might affect your mood and concentration if you don't give your body any carbs at all.
Results
Stillman's diet can result in quick and significant weight loss. Stillman indicates in his book that you can lose up to 15 lbs. during the first week of his plan. You can then expect to taper off to about 5 lbs. per week. However, if and when you ever start eating carbohydrates again, you're likely to gain back the weight you lost. The Harvard School of Public Health advises against giving up all carbs for life, and Stillman himself warns against staying on this diet long term.
Recommendations
If you want to attempt this diet and you have the go-ahead from your doctor, make up for its missing nutrients by taking supplements or a multivitamin. Stillman suggests that when the diet has brought you to within 3 lbs. of your target weight, you should change to another weight-loss plan.
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