The Effects of High Protein & a Low Carb Diet

Many diets, such as the Atkins diet and the South Beach Diet, advocate eating lots of meat and other protein-rich foods and cutting way back on carbohydrates. While many have had weight loss success on such diets, there can be some side effects.

Cholesterol

• A high protein diet often doesn't limit red meat, eggs and cheese. Since many of these foods are high in cholesterol, the diet can cause a high cholesterol level. This can lead to heart problems if it is prolonged without treatment.

Regaining Weight

• A diet low in carbs can leave the dieter with a carb craving. Once the diet is over, the dieter may go back to old eating habits and may even overindulge in carbs, with the result that the weight lost is quickly gained back.

Water Loss

• The weight lost while on a high protein, low-carb diet may be mostly water, because of a chemical reaction caused when the body looks to its own stored glycogen to replace the carbs. When the person goes off the diet, they quickly gain back the water weight that was lost.

Effects on Kidneys and Bones

• High protein diets can cause problems with kidney functions. They may also lead to bone loss and osteoporosis.

Quick Weight Loss

• A low carb, high protein diet is a good way to lose weight fast. Dieters often lose a significant number of pounds in the first few weeks on this type of diet, due to the lack of carbohydrates. Though it is hard to stay on this kind of diet long-term, it is a good choice for quick weight loss.