 | Patti Dollarhide
a dietitian and Director of Nutrition Services at Via Christi Regional Medical Center, has worked in healthcare for the past 20 years. She was raised on a Kansas farm enjoying a bounty of fresh foods and is currently working to help people uncomplicate the maze of nutrition information to promote health and wellness. She is a member of the Society for Healthcare Food Service Management and has been recognized by the industry for her leadership and innovation in implementing new programs. She can be contacted by e-mail at www.patti_dollarhide@via-christi.org |
Diet & Nutrition
2002-12-01 11:12:00
Low carbs
: Is a low carbohydrate diet with a high protein diet good or bad? Will it work? Does it put the person at an undue risk for heart problems?
ANSWER: This is the same question some beef producers asked me a couple of years ago - hoping that "eat as much beef as you want" would be the answer. Doctors still cannot agree on just how much protein the average person needs or if all calories are alike. Here's my opinion:An extreme diet of any kind - like one with unlimited meats and whole-milk dairy products-may not be a good idea because high-fat diets are thought to be connected with several chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Whenever you restrict a whole class of foods, you may miss out on some important nutrients. No grains, fresh fruit and vegetables - come on! What kind of carbohydrates do these diets suggest lowering? The ones you get in the gourmet muffin and large orange juice you down at mid-morning break? A simple carbohydrate-load like that could be replaced with a better choice. If you take away my complex carbohydrate, high-fiber granola concoction (alias "colon-blaster") and fresh fruit, I'll feel cheated. This special combination of steel cut oats, flax seed, sesame seeds, walnuts, rolled wheat flakes, spelt, raisins, dried fruit, wheat germ and honey surely does more for the body than just provide calories.Many people lose weight by "raising the protein, lowering the carbs" because they are also restricting calories. Initially, water weight comes off first---a real boost to the ego when watching the scales. New research shows when it comes to "feeling full," large amounts of protein seem to accomplish that more so than large intakes of carbohydrates or fat. Several studies have shown a diet high in protein -- within limits -- can aid in weight loss. Doctors are finding not all calories are alike. Some research says it has found high levels of protein also can help dieters regulate their food intake. The American Dietetic Association says more research is needed.High protein diets can encourage you to eat too much saturated fat and cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease. Without enough carbohydrates, the body starts burning off fatty acids. Result? The kidneys can become overworked and may suffer serious damage in the process. I confess to being a carbohydrate addict. I like cookies in the afternoon when the munchies hit. My culinary interests always take me to the bakery recipes first-this dietitian has even been accused of sabotaging her own family's healthy eating efforts! Over the years I've learned to experiment with entrees and salads and pretend to enjoy it. I also keep fresh fruit and nuts at my desk and in the car-it takes some planning and self-control. The high protein message makes us listen up because naturally we all like to hear good news about our bad habits. Until I find a way to "burn more calories by watching TV than exercising," I'll stick to what is known: Satisfy your appetite with a variety of delicious foods-in moderation, and stay trim and healthy for a lifetime. Get plenty of fruits and vegetables and exercise. You may have to learn to like both, but once you do you will wonder why you waited so long to take better care of yourself.
