Posted on: Saturday, October 25, 2003
PRESCRIPTIONS
Don't believe all you read about Atkins diet
By Amy Tousman
Q. Is it true that there are finally studies showing I can lose more weight on the Atkins diet than a low-fat diet?
Two studies on the low-carbohydrate Atkins diet published in the New England Journal of Medicine have been the subject of recent news stories.
Media reports stating these studies show eating lots of meats takes off more pounds than avoiding fried foods are missing the point. These stories fail to mention that the pounds are soon regained.
One study compared a low-fat diet with a low-carbohydrate diet in obese subjects. In six months, the Atkins dieters lost 13 pounds while the low-fat group had lost four pounds. This is not a huge difference considering the average start weight in these subjects was 290 pounds.
A similar study was conducted over 12 months. The Atkins group lost more weight for the first six months. However, during the second half of the year, they began regaining the weight. They gained weight faster than the low-fat group. After one year, there were no significant differences in the weight of the two groups.
Reporters who read only the press releases reported that "these studies bolster the Atkins diet." Since when does regaining the weight at the end of a year imply success? Those reporters who actually read the studies reported that "the Atkins Diet may be no better than just cutting fat."
These studies had huge dropout rates in both types of dieters. This affects the results. Atkin's dropouts may have been craving carbohydrates. Low-fat diet dropouts may have wanted to lose weight faster.
As a dietitian who counsels many obese people, I can say there were probably additional reasons why neither diet worked. Many obese people have genetic or emotional reasons why maintaining a weight loss is difficult.
Permanently changing habits is not easy. These results may not apply to someone who is not obese but just wants to lose a few pounds.
Many studies show low-carbohydrate diets are ineffective for long-term weight loss. Meanwhile, the health benefits of plant-based meals containing carbohydrates found in fruits, whole grains, vegetables and starchy beans are well known.
The only regimens that work for life require eating reasonable portions and exercise. And a commitment to do this forever.
Amy Tousman is a registered dietitian with the Health Education Center of Straub Clinic and Hospital.
Hawai'i experts in traditional medicine, naturopathic medicine and diet take turns writing the Prescriptions column.
Send questions to: Prescriptions, Island Life, The Advertiser, P.O. Box 3110, Honolulu, HI 96802; fax 535-8170; e-mail islandlife@honoluluadvertiser.com. This column is not intended to provide medical advice.
