High protein diets have been around for a long time and one of
the worst is the Atkins diet - it has about twice the average protein intake for Australians, with carbohydrates restricted to a low level. There is an unlimited use of saturated fat and cholesterol producing foods, while disease fighting foods such as whole grains, fruits and starchy vegetables are restricted.

The weighing up

Recent studies have shown that the Atkins diet can help you lose weight for up to six months but there is no difference in the amount of weight loss after a year when compared to other diets. The advantage of the Atkins diet for weight loss is only a temporary thing, it is not a key to permanent weight loss.

Health risks

A lot of health professionals and organisations have agreed about a high protein, low carb diet. However while they do not look harmful if used only for a short time, the long time safety of such diets is questionable.

Here are they key concerns:

Your kidneys - a high protein diet makes the kidneys work harder and speeds up the decline in kidney function if you have kidney problems.

Your bones – a high level of animal protein in the diet helps promote calcium loss from the body, which increases the risk of osteoporosis.

Cancer risks - diets high in red meat and low in plant foods such as fruit, vegetables and whole grains are linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.

Your heart – liberal use of saturated fats from cream and fatty meats is known to clog up blood vessels, raising the risk of heart disease.

What you can do to help lose weight permanently:

1) Limit carbohydrate foods with low nutrient and health value such as crisps, cakes, soft drinks, hot chips, biscuits, lollies and sugar.
2) Don’t give up fruits, starchy vegetables and whole grains such as grainy breads, high fibre breakfast cereals and brown rice; these are your weapons against cancer and many other lifestyle diseases!
3) Replace carbohydrates foods such as white bread, highly processed breakfast cereals and white rice with whole grains.
4) Select only lean meat, chicken or fish if you want to include slightly more animal protein; avoid unlimited amounts of fatty meats, cheese, cream and butter.
5) Boost protein intake with legumes and nuts as these are protective foods free from animal fats and cholesterol.

See your local GP for more information.