There are numerous side effects that are associated with a low carbohydrate diet

Question

There are numerous side effects that are associated with a low carbohydrate diet. These were not discussed by Dr. Volek nor were they addressed in the articles. I want you to some research on your own and determine what short and long term side effects are associated with this nutritional pattern. After you have identified these side effects, I want you to weigh the cost to benefit ratio of this eating pattern and discuss if you would be willing to recommend this diet to your family members and/or follow it yourself. NOTE: Clearly state where you found information on the side effects (i.e. include weblinks).

Explanation / Answer

In a study by Sondike, Copperman, and Jacobson(2003), it was found out after comparing two groups, one on low carbohydrate(LC) and other on low fat(LF) that all the patients in the LC group developed ketonuria whereas none developed it in the LF group. Weight loss was more significant in the LC group compared to the LF group; consumption of energy was higher in the LC group and Lipid profile with a marked reduction in LDL was observed in LF compared to LC. In another study by Tsai, Glick, Shera, Stern & Samaha(2005) it was revealed that "the low-carbohydrate diet was not more cost-effective for weight loss than the standard diet in the patient population studied".

More studies are required in this area to correctly predict the effect of low carbohydrate on people which includes positive as well as negative effects. The most important thing is to have a balanced approach, proper amount of carbohrdrate, proteins and fats and sufficient quantity of micro-nutrients. Hence, I would not recommend a low carbohydrate diet unless there is some serious complications which interfere with carbohydrate consumption.

References

1. Sondike, S, B., Copperman, N & Jacobson, M, S. (2003). Effects of a low-carbohydrate diet on weight loss and cardiovascular risk factors in overweight adolescents. The Journal of Pediatrics, 253-258.

2. Tsai, A, G., Glick,H, A., Shera, D., Stern, L., & Samaha, F, F. (2005). Cost-effectiveness of a low-carbohydrate diet and a standard diet in severe obesity. Obes Res., 13(10),1834-40.

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