So why do some loose weight on these low carb high protein diets? Because they cut the total caloric intake by being restrictive of certain foods (rich in carbohydrates) like cereals, fruits, veggies, grains, etc. Although we should cut down on excess fatty/sweet foods and overeating, we should not cut out essential carbohydrates needed for our bodies to function efficiently.  This can lead to significant lack of essential vitamins; minerals, fibers and other nutrients needed to maintain glycogen stores for fuel and for our bodies to function, as they normally should.  

Furthermore, in these diets, your weight loss may also be attributed by part to water weight loss… a diet misconception that can be harmful.  Since protein metabolism requires more water to utilize and excrete by product, you can dehydrate.  In some individuals with kidney or liver disease, unneeded protein may put them at risk of worsening their disease.  The low carbohydrates high protein diets usually include a high fat intake.  Too much fatty foods has been shown, over a sustained period of time, to increase the risk of coronary heart disease, diabetes and stroke, raised LDL and cholesterol levels and may induce ketosis. 

A low carb high protein diet has been recommended to diabetics because of the thought that the high insulin levels lead to weight gain.  But no reputable scientific evidence exists that insulin resistant or high blood insulin levels make individuals fat or that high carbohydrates diets cause insulin resistance.  Factors for weight gain in diabetics are more likely to be sedentary lifestyle and midlife weight gain.  Actually, people with Type 2 Diabetes or Metabolic Syndrome “X” experience tremendous health benefits by increasing their physical activity levels and losing modest amounts of weight.  In fact, exercising is more effective in targeting insulin levels than is the ratio of carbohydrates and protein consumption.  Weight reduction and physical activity enhance insulin sensitivity results in lower blood insulin levels.  Exercising regularly causes insulin to more easily bind to muscle cell receptors and to promote a more effective uptake of Glucose. (Cedrick X. Bryant Ph.D., FACSM, James A. Peterson, Ph. D., FACSM, and Jason M. Conviser, Ph D., FACSM, December 2001)        

Most importantly, these types of diets may take us away from making wise food choices and sound lifestyle changes that do lead to long term healthy weight loss.  All diets should be tailored to an individual taking all aspects into consideration including; health, age, sex, disease, workout schedule, etc.  If you truly want to diet to loose weight you should see your Dr. and a nutritionist.  It is not only for your health but also for ensuring better results.

This article is to highlight some myths on fad diets and should not be used as a guide to dieting.  Please see your nutritionist or Doctor before engaging in any diet or fitness program.