Low-Protein & Low-Fat Diets

Is it possible that a low-fat and low-protein diet could be the key to weight loss? With all the hype surrounding the low-carbohydrate diet these days, the low-fat diet has gone the way of the dinosaur. Most people would consider protein as the cornerstone of any diet plan, so the thought of both a low-fat and and low-protein diet seems like a bid of an absurdity. The idea, however, is neither new nor all that absurd.

Surprising Research

• Research at Cornell University conducted by biochemist T. Colin Campbell suggests that too much dietary fat and protein may actually be the reason the body retains excess weight. This is due to a delicate balance within the body that determines whether or not the body burns the excess calories as energy or retains it and stores it as fat. The findings suggest the possibility that a high-carbohydrate, low-fat, low-protein diet is more likely to prevent the body from storing excess calories as adipose (fat) tissue. The study also suggests that a diet high in plant-based nutrients and fiber may be more effective in the long term for weight loss and health.

High-Fiber, High-Carbohydrate Diet

• The thought of a high-carbohydrate diet may conjure images of cake and doughnuts, but the type of carbohydrates you will need to consume on this diet are certainly not these high-glycemic foods. High-glycemic carbs are those that are quickly transported as sugars in the blood and include anything from simple sugars, like cakes, to white bread and potatoes. A healthy high-carbohydrate diet will consist of low-glycemic carbohydrates that are high in fiber and nutrient dense.

What You Should Eat

• Since the research suggests that a healthful diet consists of an abundance of carbohydrates and a low amount of protein and fat, you should focus your eating habits on a core menu of whole-grain breads, oats, nuts and high-fiber foods such as broccoli and other green, leafy vegetables. You should not cut protein or fat completely out of the diet, however, because the research also suggests that you still need to consume healthy amounts of both. Your proteins should consist of a small amount of fish, turkey or chicken. Fish is especially important because it contains omega-3 fatty acids that are necessary for proper cell and brain function. Avoid foods high in saturated and trans fats because these are associated with high blood cholesterol levels and can increase your risk for conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Also make sure that you are getting a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise per day and drinking plenty of water to maintain optimal health.