In the 70s, a protein diet which was based on high protein and low carbs were promoted. In fact, it has found a resurgence for people who want to quickly lose weight. But is a weekly protein diet for you? Read on.
There are several diets based around protein but depending on what you are interested in.
PROTEIN POWER DIET
This diet features a calculation of protein needs. For those who have been interested or curious of diet plans that look towards protein needs, the best way to determine how much protein you need is for every 0.6 grams of protein per pound. It is then followed by calculating lean body mass and carbs are typically limited to 30 to 50 grams daily and typically recommended for short term weight loss, not long-term.
THE ATKINS DIET
The Atkins Diet is one of the more popular protein based diets that focus on low carbohydrates. The diet has four phases but the first phase known as the “Induction” phase is strict as it people can only consume no more than 20 grams of carbohydrates per day. During the first two weeks, participants must not neat any milk, fruits, grains, cereals, breads or any foods high on the “Glycemic Index” such as potatoes, peas, corn or carrots. Dr. Atkins has provided a listing of food in his books of which people must follow.
THE HIGH PROTEIN LOW-CARB DIET
The high protein low-carb diet was a major diet promoted by physicians in the 70s. But of course, at the time, there was not much published research on saturated fat, trans-fat and heart disease during that time. Of course, many athletes try to focus on a high-protein diet but the question is if you are active enough like an athlete.
A weekly protein diet can mean a lot of meat and eggs but no carbohydrates such as bread, potatoes, pasta or rice. Protein can be found in large quantities through foods such as red meat, seafood, poultry, eggs and cheese. But because the goal is for lower carbs and losing weight quickly, pasta, bread, potatoes, fruit and vegetables are a no-no.
THE CONS OF HIGH PROTEIN/LOW CARB DIETS
Some people who have been on a high protein and low carb diet have found that they have gone through mood changes and a huge craving for high carb foods and snacks. Where studies have shown for high carb diets to raise the level of serotonin for improving mood and appetite, they also experienced less cravings than a person on a high protein diet.
Many who go for high protein and low carb diets sometimes want to achieve fast weight loss in a short term. So, what people are losing are water weight. By starving the body from carbs, it takes energy from it’s glycogen sources. But once your carb intake returns to normal, a person can expect their water-weight to return.
With any diet, it’s really important to do your research. While a weekly protein diet may be beneficial to lose weight in the short term, for the long term, it’s not a good thing. Definitely consult your physician and learn more about a weekly protein diet and if it’s for you. Especially if you may have been diagnosed with a health condition and thus focusing on a high protein, low carb diet can lead to worsening of a condition.
By: Steven Storm
