High protein low carb diet myth
The high-protein low carb diet first came about in the 70s. At this time, people were not as aware of the dangers of saturated fat to the heart and body in general. Recently, these same diets have gained popularity. Why? Research shows that these diets result in a large initial weight loss. This weight loss is not without its risks and many health professionals are sceptical about the long term benefits of these types of weight loss diets.
What is high protein/low carb dieting anyway?
Under a normal food pyramid, our body will obtain its energy from carbohydrates, one of the three main classes of food and also a source of energy.
The principle of this diet is to drastically lower the amount of carbohydrates that you consume on a daily basis so our bodies are forced into a state of ketosis, whereby your body sources its energy from ketones (stored fat). In ketosis you feel less hungry and eat less – the result is weight loss. To supplement this, you replace carbohydrates with lots of protein, which can be obtained from meat and eggs.
Ok. So why is this type of low carb dieting potentially harmful?
Risk of kidney failure – your kidneys are forced to process protein (which is converted to urea), an excessive amount which is toxic.
Risk of heart disease – high protein diets often contain a large amount of cholesterol, which is harmful to the heart.
Vitamin deficiencies – many high protein low carb diet programs do not recommend fruits and vegetables, due to their carb content.
Mood swings – high protein diets have the potential to result in mood swings and also cravings for carbohydrate-laden food, which can lead to carbohydrage binging
Because energy from protein is not released quickly, like carbohydrates, the body can become tired and perform sluggishly
What’s the alternative to high protein diets?
Maintaining a healthy fitness regime will reap much greater long term benefits. Eat carbohydrates after exercise, as your body can burn them quickly.
If you found this information about the risks of low carb dieting useful, be sure to check out these 5 ways to Get a Flat Stomach faster – the natural way.