LOW-CARB DIET VS LOW-FAT DIET

Years of studies and clinical trials have been done to decide which diet is best and healthy : low-fat or low cholesterol diet vs. low-carbohydrate diet (Atkins diet). The results are that both diets are effective in reducing weight but studies show that the Atkins diet is better because it increases High Density Lipids (HDL) or “good” cholesterol.

Atkins Diet or the Atkins Nutritional Approach was developed by Robert Atkins, a cardiologist. He discovered that eating too much “junk food” like your regular chips, soda and the like, which consist mostly of sugar, flour and high fructose sugars from fruit juices are the major cause of obesity. Although his diet is popular on emphasising the control of carbohydrate intake, the questionable part of his diet plan is that there were no restrictions on protein and fat intake.
Low-fat diet on the other hand discourages the consumption of fat or to simply take in as little amount of fat as possible, especially cholesterol and saturated fat. This is to prevent the increase of blood cholesterol that could eventually lead to a heart attack.
Amazingly , Atkins diet provides high levels of HDL or good cholesterol which actually prevents heart attacks by melting away atherosclerotic plaque on the coronary arteries. If this is the case, then Atkins diet is a better dieting regimen compared to a low calorie diet. The downside of Atkins diet is its initial side effects which are bad breath, dry mouth, and hair loss. The side effects may last for a few days to weeks depending on the individual, but is generally short once your body has adjusted to the diet.
There are simple remedies to alleviate the side effects while your body is adjusting, the first two are simple to solve. Bad breath can be easily treated with sugar-free breath mints. Bringing a bottle of water and taking frequent sips can prevent dry mouth. Hair loss occurs because of sudden nutrient depletion due to the diet. Though this is temporary, hair loss can be prevented by using Nisim shampoo. This special shampoo contains herbal extracts, amino acids and b-complex vitamins, all the nutrients the hair needs to prevent hair loss and stimulate hair growth, especially useful during the early phase of this diet plan.