Ideal Protein Diet Dangers

With the widespread notion that carbohydrates are the main cause of weight gain in people, there has been a considerable rise in low carbohydrate and high protein diet plans. The principle of these diet plans is to lose weight by reducing the intake of carbohydrates and increasing that of proteins. The ideal protein diet is one such diet which is based on a similar principle. The diet plan was created by Dr. Tran Tien Chanh.

An Overview on Ideal Diet Plan

According to Dr. Chanh, weight gain or weight problems in general occur due to dysfunctional use of insulin. This abnormal functioning of the insulin occurs due to over consumption of carbohydrates, sugar and saturated fat. Therefore, it is essential to cut down these foods from the diet, and rather concentrate on including proteins in your diet. One of the highlights of this diet is consuming protein powders and supplements specially meant for this diet. The diet consists of four phases, and one should consume protein rich fruits and vegetables, lean meats, lean dairy, protein snacks, at all the prescribed time. The diet helps in losing weight, without losing lean body mass and muscles. Let us know about the potential ideal protein diet dangers in detail.

Potential Side Effects

Firstly, it should be noted that not all carbohydrates are bad, and not all of them lead to weight gain. Only refined carbohydrates are foods that cause weight gain. In fact, carbohydrates are essential for energy. Therefore, people having a diet completely lacking in carbohydrates may experience low energy, fatigue and weakness. The amount of carbohydrates mentioned in the diet are not sufficient for gaining energy.

Secondly, any diet plan that works on the principle of low carbohydrate and high proteins results in weight loss due to water depletion. Although one may observe quick weight loss due to these diet plans, the depletion of water causes the pH remainder to change. This leads to several digestive and skin problems. Therefore, people following this diet may experience abdominal discomfort or nausea in the initial days.

Thirdly, although this diet is effective to lose weight, consumption of excess proteins is never encouraged by doctors. This is because high protein content in the body exerts pressure on the kidneys. The kidneys have to work harder to get rid of the waste products of protein metabolism. This can lead to severe kidney problems in people who already suffer from disorders of the kidneys.

Similarly, another ideal protein diet side effect is that the diet is high on animal proteins (as proteins are found in higher amounts in animal sources) and low on plant proteins. This can cause a deficiency of other vitamins and minerals. The diet can also cause a state of ketosis due to increase in the number of ketone bodies in the body. Also, the excess intake of meat can increase cholesterol levels which is not good for the heart. There are high chances of developing heart diseases due to the increased cholesterol levels.

It should be noted that most of these side effects are observed if the diet is followed for a longer duration and without proper knowledge. However, as there are potential side effects associated, it is wise to consult a doctor before following the diet. Take care!