Let's take a look at a few of the more popular fad diets and talk about the good and the bad side of prescribing to them. The High Protein Diet Proponents of this diet claim that all people eat too many carbohydrates and not enough protein, and that it is this over consumption of carbohydrates that causes significant weight gain. The breakdown of carbohydrate into sugars that can be immediately used is an efficient process. Burning protein is not an efficient process, nor is protein the preferred fuel for the body. Fruit and vegetables are not encouraged or promoted, making the opportunity to obtain necessary vitamins and minerals a limited one.
Physical activity has benefits that are well known and advertised.
Fuel necessary for muscles to perform activity comes from carbohydrate, and a lack of carbohydrate can result in decreased capacity to perform physical activity, as well as decreased performance of physical activity. Side effects from over consumption of protein include dehydration, bad breath, fatigue and lethargy. Carbohydrate serves as a precursor to fat burning. Carbohydrates in the form of breads, cereals, fruits and vegetables contain important vitamins and minerals that can not be obtained through protein consumption. It may be true that many people consume too many carbohydrates.