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Low Carbohydrate High Protein Diet Plan

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In recent times, low carbohydrate high protein diets have been touted as being effective in promoting weight loss. Generally, these diets recommend dieters to receive around 40% of their total calorie intake from proteins alone. An example of a low carbohydrate high protein diet would be the Atkins diet.

These diets work by forcing the body to achieve a high metabolism rate through limiting carbohydrate intake to a fraction of the original amount. Such a state of high metabolism rate is called 'ketosis', whereby the body burns its own internally stored fat content. When the body is in the state of 'ketosis', a person tend to feel less hungry. With this, it can be said that the body now burns fat instead of carbohydrates. The end result is weight loss. Aside from the benefit of weight loss, these diets also help to control blood sugar levels reducing the risk of diabetics. However, low carbohydrate high protein diets can pose a health risk.

The side effects of a high protein low carbohydrate diet are as follows:

Increased risk of kidney failure. Excessive protein consumption can cause stress on the kidneys.
'Ketosis', an unhealthy state which causes possible formation of kidney stones and gout. Also, a person may develop bad breath and experience dizziness.
Fatigue becomes more common than before as minimizing carbohydrates result in lower energy for the body. This may result in lifestyle disruptions.
More frequent mood swings as high protein diets tend to create cravings for snacks.
Increased risk of cancer as such diets does not encourage eating fruits or vegetables which are high in fiber.

Recent research has indicated that while a high protein and low carbohydrate diet tends to achieve faster and greater weight loss within a period of 6 months as compared to other normal conventional diets, the effectiveness tend to wear off rapidly after a year. Such a fad diet is not recommended for permanent weight loss as it seems that the cons outweight the pros.

Ultimately, if you are seeking for a healthier solution to weight loss, nothing beats the conventional and trusty approach of changing your lifestyle to a more active one which involves frequent exercises and doing cardiovascular exercises. At the same time, follow a balanced diet consisting of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and moderate servings of food during meal times.

Now if you still wish to give this diet plan a shot, be sure to consult your doctor or dietician first.