News You Can Use

No carbs, no problem…right?

University Relations
News Bureau (662) 325-3442
Contact: Dustin Barnes
Jan. 28, 2004

STARKVILLE, Miss.—As long as there have been New Year’s resolutions, there have been weight loss programs. As low-carbohydrate diets shape up to be “the” program of 2004, what should consumers know? Does this type of diet do what it’s supposed to and, more importantly, is it safe?

“I think people get excited about it because they start [the diet] and see results,” says Virginia Braddock, a registered dietitian and nutrition instructor at Mississippi State University. “They can lose several pounds in the first week.”

Because the diet causes the average person to lose water stored in their bodies, a rapid loss of weight can occur at first. Normal calorie intake also is reduced with the required elimination of all breads, fruits and vegetables.

Braddock says the diet often is difficult to sustain for long periods, however, because it eliminates so many popular foods.

As to safety and long-term effects, Braddock says that one goal of low-carb diets is production by the body of ketosis, which causes the blood to become more acidic. Yet, if sustained, the body could be at higher risks for heart disease, bone loss and kidney damage.

As for weight loss, Braddock said the low-carb diet does not work any better than the others over the long term. That’s why, in spite of its current popularity, she says she feels it will not change the food industry.

Braddock says the current emphasis on low carb diets is due to the public’s consumption of refined carbohydrates found in such products as sweeteners, white bread and white pasta. In addition, she observes that consumers today eat food in larger quantities and often allow their food choices to be influenced by convenience.

She recommends a diet featuring healthier carbohydrates such as whole grains, vegetables and fruits. “I also would encourage people to look at the lifestyle choices they’re making,” she says. “Try to plan ahead for healthy foods, and try to increase physical activities.”