Things Everyone Should Know About High Protein Low Carb Diets

Things Everyone Should Know About High Protein Low Carb Diets

You have probably heard all the hoopla about the high protein low carb diets that are on the market today. One of the most famous of these diets is the Atkins diet. You have also probably heard conflicting opinions for these diet and weight loss plans as well. So, how do you know which opinion is correct? The only way to know is to educate yourself about these various diet plans and form your own opinion.

In general, a high protein low carb diet will have you getting 30% to 50% of your total calories from protein. Our normal diets consist of more carbohydrates than protein. Our bodies get energy by burning the carbohydrates. This is the fuel that our brains and major organs need in order to fully function properly.

When you eat a high protein low carb diet, your body goes into a different metabolic state. This state is called ketosis. When your body goes into ketosis it will start to burn its own fat for fuel. The body will get its energy from the breakdown of fat stores. This will result in you feeling less hunger and you will probably eat a little less. But you need to be aware that there are some dangers associated with this type of dieting.

Kidney problems could be one of the major side effects. The reason for this is that the processing of protein will put a strain on your kidneys and can make you susceptible to kidney problems.

High protein diets can cause osteoporosis or even kidney stones. This is because you will excrete more calcium than normal through the kidneys. If you follow a high protein diet for an extended period of time, this can increase your risk for kidney stones and osteoporosis.

Another thing to take into consideration is the fact that eating all of that protein, which consists of red meats, cheeses and dairy products, can cause your cholesterol level to go up. If you battle high cholesterol already, then you should be very cautious about following a high protein diet.

Before you begin any diet program you should check with your doctor first. A diet program that is high in proteins and low in carbs is something that should not be followed on a long term basis. It can be helpful for short term fast weight loss, but the only way to keep the weight off is a complete lifestyle change. And therein lies the problem. For most everyone who uses this type of diet program, once they stop the weight comes back on fast. Learn how to eat healthy and get plenty of exercise.

So now you have the information to make a decision on your own about the high protein low carb diet. Do not attempt any diet without your doctor's supervision. Just remember to stay healthy.