Carbohydrates include foods that turn to glucose during digestion - sweets, starches, fruits and milk. Physicians and dietitians have recommended eating less animal protein and fat to reduce weight, blood fats, and blood cholesterol in order to reduce the risk of heart disease. Weight gain in the United States has steadily increased. More than half of all adults are overweight, and sugar consumption also has steadily increased. The weight gain is certainly a contributing factor to diabetes, the incidence of which is steadily rising.
Triglycerides indicate the blood's fat content.
When the body becomes resistant to its own insulin secretion from the pancreas, usually due to weight gain, the resulting excess insulin may increase plaque build-up in the blood vessels and increase the risk of diabetes or make existing diabetes more difficult to control. The Food Guide Pyramid recommends about 50 percent of calories from carbohydrates, about 20 percent from protein, and 30 percent from fat. Certainly, following a diet such as The Zone for a brief time can yield weight loss and improved blood glucose levels, but there may be some caution for long-term use if renal or kidney problems exist or if a risk for osteoporosis exists. Also, if an individual eats more fatty cuts of protein, excess fat intake can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels and weight gain. Following the Food Guide Pyramid and the recommended size portions, one can still lose weight and control blood glucose, triglyceride, and insulin levels.