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Weight Loss and NutritionDesperate to lose weight, millions of Americans are increasingly confused by the conflicting claims offered by the myriad of new diet books. Central to the debate is the controversy concerning the proper role of carbohydrates and protein in a healthy weight loss diet. The Atkins Diet®, The Power Protein Diet®, and the Zone Diet® all recommend increasing protein and fat intake while decreasing carbohydrates. What may be surprising is that various versions of these high-fat and protein diets have come and gone since the 1950s. But in spite of their constant rejection by such mainstream medical organizations as the American Heart Association and the American Dietetic Association, their popularity remains unabated. And the reason is clear. Steak, butter, cream and rich desserts are all severely restricted on traditional low-fat diets, but are enthusiastically embraced by the high protein/low carbohydrate advocates. Sorting out the validity of these various diets is frustrating, if not impossible, for even the most motivated health-conscious consumer. Each diet proponent attempts to bolster their claims by citing scientific studies and physiological theories on such topics as the glycemic index, insulin resistance and hormone homeostasis. Without specialized training and knowledge in these areas, it is almost impossible to critically evaluate the various arguments. And so the diet wars continue. With the public unable to reach a consensus, the individual is left to make sense of competing diets, all of which promise weight loss—but often based on dramatically different assumptions and rules. So, what should you do? Here’s some sound, medically backed advice that sheds a little light on the most common diet myths and misconceptions—and may be able to help you in your own quest to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle. |
