Promoters of high-protein, low-carbohydrate (HPLC) diets claim that they can guarantee quick weight loss. Introduced by Robert Atkins in 1972, this type of diet achieved considerable popularity at first, but its popularity soon declined as people failed to attain the advertised weight loss. Today, however, this diet has regained attention among people who wish to shed extra pounds.
The average American is not alone in being drawn to this extraordinary prescription for weight loss. Athletes, young and old, are also easily enticed by the claims of quick weight loss and greater athletic success. Coaches and health and fitness professionals there-fore need to examine these claims in the light of scientific evidence in order to better discharge their duty to their athletes and students. To that end, this article will address the claims of HPLC diets by examining relevant scientific reports. Possible adverse effects will also be addressed.
The Claims
Claim 1: Weight loss is attributed to the composition of the diet (i.e., high protein, low carbohydrate).
The only healthful way to lose weight is to achieve a negative energy balance. To accomplish this, three methods are possible. If one maintains his or her usual energy output, while decreasing the amount of energy consumed as food, a negative energy balance will result. High-protein, low-carbohydrate diets are typically low-calorie, thereby causing a negative energy balance, hence weight loss. The second way to accomplish a negative energy balance is to maintain the usual food intake, while increasing energy output by exercise. The third and most effective method combines the first two. By creating a negative energy balance through a combination of diet and exercise, lean muscle mass can be retained while body fat is decreased.
Claim 2: Insulin promotes the storage of fat; therefore by limiting carbohydrate, dieters will decrease levels of insulin and body fat.....
