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by Stacey Hohl, MUSC Dietetic Intern

Like a bad dream that keeps returning, so does the crash diet. The most recent return is the high protein diet.

Claiming to be new and improved, these diets are actually revivals of crash diets popular in early 1970s.

Remember those diet books that advocate the consumption of a high protein, low carbohydrate and low calorie diet to promote weight loss? These claims will work, but the result that can occur is dangerous.

Without carbohydrates, the body cannot completely burn fat. Ketones are then formed and released into the bloodstream. The result is weakness, diarrhea, dizziness, headaches, and dehydration.

Many people do lose weight on this type of diet, but much of the loss is water. Carbohydrates hold water in the body. By reducing the consumption of carbohydrates there will be a natural loss of a few pounds of water.

High protein dieters can compromise their health by making this a long-term commitment. Excess protein in the diet has been linked to diseases such as arthritis, dementia, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and kidney damage.

Here are red flags to look for when trying to find eating patterns to promote weight loss. Avoid a diet that:

• Promises a quick fix.
• Has dire warnings of danger from a single product or regimen (i.e.: sugar).
• Has claims that sound too good to be true.
• Has simplistic conclusions drawn from a complex study.
• Lists “good” and “bad” foods.
• Has recommendations based on a single study.
• Has dramatic statements that are refuted by reputable scientific organizations.

Making permanent lifestyle changes such as eating low fat foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, drinking plenty of water and exercising is the best way to achieve a desired weight without risking your health. Contact a registered dietitian at 792-4143 if you have any questions regarding a weight loss program.