Nov
22

What are the risks of the Atkins Diet!

Filed Under Atkins, Low Carb Diet, Weight Loss 

The induction phase of the Atkins Diet is a very low carbohydrate diet. It operates on the theory that refined carbs cause you to gain weight. Refined carbs are white breads, pastas, sugars and starches. The carbs most of us eat regularly.
One of the biggest downsides is the elimination of certain foods and food groups.  Protein and fat alone cannot provide you with the nutrients you need for good health. There are some foods in each food group that offer the nutrients your body needs.

The Atkins Diet says carbohydrates affect blood sugar and the hormone insulin. They contend that insulin, not the types or quantities of food, cause an imbalanced metabolism and fat storage.
Insulin is produced by the body in response to the high glucose levels. It causes the liver to convert glucose into glycogen, (which can become body fat), reducing the blood sugar to safe levels.

On the other hand, if the diet is very low in carbohydrates, the blood sugar level can fall too low. There will be insufficient glucose to fuel the cells of the body. The Atkins Diet says it allows enough good carbs to keep this from happening.
Medical experts say that allowing high protein and high fat foods in unlimited quantities is unhealthy. The downside is that it is not good for your heart. We have all heard about how fat and cholesterol can clog our arteries.
Some of the nutritional benefits that are lost as a result of low carb diets are fiber and B vitamins that are found in bread, cereals, and grains.  Fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that are found in fruits and vegetables, protect against disease.

Calcium and vitamin D, found in dairy products, help build strong bones and teeth. Healthy sources of fat, found in nuts, protect against heart disease. Fiber, found in most high carb foods, helps you feel full longer.

Constipation is a big downside for people following low carb, high protein diets. Fruits, vegetables and grains provide fiber that helps maintain regular bowel function. The Atkins Diet is not recommended for people with chronic gastrointestinal diseases.

High levels of protein have been shown to increase calcium loss from the body. Dairy products, which contain calcium, are restricted in low carb diets. Inadequate intake has been associated with osteoporosis, a disease which causes the bones to become very fragile. High protein intakes have also been associated with kidney disease.

Since the kidneys are responsible for eliminating the by-products of protein, researchers say it puts excess strain on them. This has not been proven, except in persons who already have poor kidney function.
Since carbohydrates are the primary source of fuel for the muscles and brain, eating a low carb diet can cause muscle weakness, tiredness and dehydration. Individuals who participate in high endurance activities should not participate in a low carbohydrate diet.
A low carb diet should be completely avoided during pregnancy, lactation, childhood, and the pre-teen years. During these periods of life, growth is very rapid and requires calories and many nutrients for optimal development.
These are the main downsides to the Atkins Diet.  Is a low carb diet good for you or is it dangerous. By looking at both sides, and consulting with your health care provider, you can make an informed decision.

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