Protein Diet: Is It Always Good for Everyone? - Oksana Linnikova

The most popular links to the search query "how to lose weight quickly?" lead to express diets or mono diets. Protein diets are still relevant despite their recognized harm. Let’s figure it out.

Why is protein diet effective?

Because elimination of carbohydrates from the diet always leads to a quick fluid loss. You see the result on your scale instantly. Of course, fat tissue is also beginning to be actively used as a source of energy. However, such a transition is more stress than benefit since it triggers defense mechanisms and later, the body will strive to store calories over and above.

The diet is poor in micronutrients and fiber necessary for good bowel function. It reduces the amount of essential fats responsible for thermoregulation, flexible metabolism, and hormone formation.

Who are the most usual accomplices to protein diets?

Most often, these are bodybuilders - they prepare their bodies for competition in order to demonstrate their athletic form with the maximum visible relief and the minimum percentage of subcutaneous fat. Though this measure is temporary and is suitable only for healthy people. High-protein diets are especially harmful for people with chronic kidney disease and hormonal imbalances.

When the protein diet won’t harm you?

When you carry out small carbohydrate-free cycles of 2-3 days in 3-4 weeks. This way, you can shift weight if you "flattened the curve", or quickly neutralize the effects of carbohydrate spree (cake-eating birthday or New Year's with an abundance of sweets).

Let's not forget about the psychological aspect. A long ban on sweet taste leads to breakdowns and uncontrolled consumption of carbohydrates afterwards. Eating disorders are very likely to develop. Therefore, when choosing a long-term diet, you should rely on the WHO recommendations and stick to a balanced and varied diet observing the calorie standards.

Nutrition specialist Oksana Linnikova.