More about Dean Ornish & Atkins Diets

Dean Ornish diet

This is a very strict low-fat diet that - apart from causing you to lose weight - also decreases your cholesterol and has been scientifically proven to reverse coronary artery disease. Some people on this diet have decreased the size of the plaques in the arteries supplying the heart, thereby avoiding the need for open-heart bypass surgery.

The diet involves intensive lifestyle changes.

•     A vegetarian diet that includes 10% fat calories

•     Moderate aerobic exercise

•     Stress management training including yoga and meditation

•     Smoking cessation

•     Group psychosocial support

Caution: The American Heart Association cautions that very low-fat diets may increase triglycerides. Increasing exercise and taking a flaxseed or fish oil supplement can minimize this risk. Very low-fat diets may be difficult for all but the most motivated and disciplined people.

Dr. Atkins' diet

This diet restricts carbohydrates. The introduction phase (two weeks or more) restricts carbohydrates to less than 20 grams per day. This excludes most fruits and vegetables and relies on a diet of mostly animal fats and protein.

It is true that simple carbohydrates, such as sugar, white flour, pasta, rice, and alcohol are rapidly absorbed and cause weight gain when consumed in excess. They should thus be avoided by people who are overweight or obese.

Complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, brown rice, fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, and soy products are rich in fibre, which slows their absorption. In moderation, they are excellent food choices for overweight and obese people. They should make up a significant proportion of the diet. And yet these are also strictly limited by the Atkins diet.

Many studies have shown that excess animal protein in the diet increases the risks of breast and prostate cancers, heart disease, kidney disease, and osteoporosis. Fats and proteins break down in the body to substances called ketones. The large amounts of fat and protein in the Atkins diet are likely to cause an excess of ketones in the body - a condition called ketosis.

Caution: This diet may not be appropriate for people with diabetes, and its safety in pregnant or breastfeeding women has not been established. It also establishes unhealthy eating habits. Always seek advice from your doctor before going on any diet.

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