Dr. Nelson, I've been reading a lot about high protein, low-carb diets, like Dr. Atkins' and The Zone.
Protein is a critical component to our body's functioning.
Protein is important for synthesizing enzymes and hormones, maintaining fluid balance, and assisting in vital functions such as building antibodies against infection, blood clotting, and scar formation. In addition, our muscles, bones, cartilage, skin, hair, and blood are all made in part from protein. Protein is found mostly in animal products such as meat, cheese, milk, fish, and eggs, but it can also be found in vegetarian combinations such as rice and beans, corn and beans, and tofu or soy products as well. Many people may think that because protein helps to build muscle, that extra protein will give an added boost to muscle mass and strength. However, there is no scientific evidence that this is true unless a person is malnourished to being with.