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To those without knowledge of the macronutrients and their function in the body, it would seem as if a low carb diet provides quick, healthy and sustainable weight loss without cutting calories. First, low carbohydrate diets are a form of calorie restriction, that is why they work in the short term. Almost any time an entire food group is eliminated from or severely restricted in the diet, calories are cut and weight loss occurs. Diets without carbohydrates emphasize protein and fat, both of which contribute to feeling full. Thus, the dieter can eat less without feeling hungry.

However, this is not a healthy way to lose weight in the long term. Diets which allow unlimited fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol (as nearly all low carb diets do) may lead to any one of many cardiovascular diseases. Dr. Atkins himself experienced cardiac arrest in 2002. Further, the body requires complex carbohydrates, simple carbohydrates and vitamins and minerals to function effectively and sustain life. The main source of vitamins and minerals is fruits and vegetables. These contain....AHHHHHH.....carbs. This leads many ignorant low carb patrons to severely restrict these items in their diet, paving the way for vitamin deficiencies including impaired vision, rupture of blood cells, nerve damage, impaired bone mineralization, prolonged blood coagulation, anorexia, muscle weakness, beriberi, photophobia, peripheral neuropathy, indigestion, fatigue, insomnia, etc etc. And no, vitamin supplements cannot replace the levels lost from the diet or provide enough for health benefits in a restricted diet. All kids know that fruits and vegetables are food for you. But Americans will look for any reason to avoid eating them....especially if they think they doing so will help them lose weight without actually changing their diet habits or working out.

Glucose is the form of sugar that travels in your bloodstream to fuel the brain. Glucose is the ONLY fuel used by brain cells. Because neurons cannot store glucose, they depend on the bloodstream to deliver a constant supply of this precious fuel. If glucose is not provided by the diet for prolonged periods of time the brain cannot function and will shut down.

Finally, one must consider fiber. Most Americans do not consume the recommended amount of fiber each day. This is why we have significant problems with bowel movements and/or constipation. Fiber is the indigestible portion of plant foods that move food through the digestive system, absorbing water and easing defecation. Since plants contain carbohydrates and little fat or protein, these are the items removed from the low carb diet. Without fiber and with high amounts of animal foods, bowel movements will inevitably be infrequent, dry, hard, and painful.

Yes, many Americans do eat too many highly refined carbohydrates such as sugary cereals, white breads and snack foods containing added sugar. It is true that these items should be limited. However, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and legumes should be consumed every day to avoid adverse health effects and to promote a long and healthy life. (Note, these foods are naturally low in fat and calories, which aids in weight loss.)

Before you attempt to discredit the AHA or other organizations designed to promote health and wellness using evidenced based recommendations, I suggest you put down the paperback fad diet book and pick up a basic nutrition or physiology text.