High Protein Diet

Abstract

This paper will explore the effectiveness of following a high-protein diet when weight loss is the desired result. I will explore some possible negative side affects that a high protein diet may have on ones health when the carbohydrate and fat intake are not limited with the diet. I will also explore the effects of a high-protein diet in which the carbohydrate and fat intake are limited as part of the diet.

HIGH-PROTEIN DIET

Definition of High-protein diet;

A diet that contains large amounts of protein, consisting largely of meats, fish, milk, legumes, and nuts. It may be indicated in protein depletion that results from any cause, as a preoperative preparation, or for patients with severe burns and sepsis. It may be contraindicated in liver failure or when kidney function is so impaired that added protein could result in azotemia and acidosis.

High-protein diet - definition of high-protein diet in the Medical dictionary - by the Free Online Medical Dictionary, Thesaurus and Encyclopedia.. (n.d.). Medical Dictionary. Retrieved March 7, 2011, from http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/high-protein+diet

High-protein diet - a diet high in plant and animal proteins; used to treat malnutrition or to increase muscle mass

Diet - a prescribed selection of foods

Conclusion

The definition of a high-protein diet can vary greatly depending on the source, as do the said results to ones health from following such a diet. Based on the published clinical studies and reports that I was able to find on this subject my conclusions are as follows; a high protein diet in which carbohydrates and fat intake are limited as part of the diet is proven effective and safe for short term (3to4 months) weight loss, typically resulting in a reversal of weight loss once the diet is stopped if healthy eating habits are not established. If the diet is continued long term there can be adverse affects to ones health and these risks greatly increase with the high-protein diets in which carbohydrate and fat intake are not limited as part of the diet.

HIGH-PROTEIN DIET

The following is to provide an explanation of the science of how it is that high protein diets produce weight loss when used in combination with a restricted intake of carbohydrates and fats.

Body Fat

When the body consumes calories it converts any excess calories that it does not immediately use into a molecule known as a triglyceride, which is made out of 3 fatty acids bonded together. These triglycerides are then stored in fat cells for backup energy,