The Protein Power Diet, developed by husband-and-wife doctor team Michael R. Eades and Mary Dan Eades, espouses a nutrition plan relatively high in protein, moderate in fats and low in several types of carbohydrates.
Their reasonong is that it's the hormone insulin, not excessive fat, that's responsible for the widespread weight gain in Western society. Insulin is triggered by eating carbohydrates, in particular the sugary, starchy "high-Glycemic" carbs that comprise the bulk of most people's diets in the United States, where the Eades practice.
Protein Power has been compared to the Atkins Diet, which also takes a high-protein, low-carbohydrate approach.
The Eades team argues, quite persuasively, that the low-fat, high-carb diets of the 1980s and 1990s have done little to nothing to stem the growing tide of obesity cases.
What to Look for
Protein Power foods are an eclectic mix of lean meats, selected fruits and vegetables. In addition, the Doctors Eades publish a number of more elaborate recipes, including sweet-tasting desserts, in their books and on their website.
Some of the foods you'll find on the Protein Power plan include tuna, pork, turkey, wild game, eggs, beef, non-starchy vegetables (but not carrots) and a variety of fruits (but not bananas). A typical day's menu might consist of 2 eggs, sausage and toast (with butter) for breakfast; a protein and sliced veggie-stuffed "tuna pita" for lunch; Gouda cheese and an orange for snacktime; and grilled salmon and vegetables, with a salad of leafy greens on the side, for dinner. To wash down dinner: 4 ounces white wine and a glass of water.
Common Pitfalls
The evidence is near-incontrovertible that excessive carbohydrates present a major problem in Western diets. But high-protein diets remain controversial because no one is yet sure what kind of effect they have on long-term cardiovascular health.
They also pose the potential to deprive dieters of essential nutrients, thereby upsetting vital body processes. And yet, Protein Power has sold millions of copies and has a devoted following of practitioners who call it both effective and sustainable.
As a general recommendation, you should call into question fad diets that rely upon some extreme mode of eating or that dictate absolutes of "Thou Shalt Not Eat, This, This or That."
In Protein Power's favor--unlike some other protein-centric diets--the Doctors Eades recommend large amounts of high-fiber carbohydrates, including their approved fruits and vegetables. This helps make up some of the missing vitamins and nutrients and provides the roughage needed to keep the intestinal tract clear--another problem common to high-protein diets.
As always, before starting any new dieting regimen, consult your doctor.
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