Choose a “popular” diet to research and review. You can include The South Beach Diet, Atkins Diet, etc. Thoroughly research this diet, using reputable sources including some that are not published by the creators of the diet you have chosen. Once you have researched the diet, answer the following:
- Describe the diet itself. For instance, what foods are included, are any foods prohibited, what is the macronutrient distribution, etc.
- What claims does the diet make? Are they sound? Why or why not? Use what you have learned in class up until this point to analyze the claims.
- Would you consider this a healthy diet overall? Why or why not? Consider possible drug interactions with components of the diet that are emphasized.
- Would this diet be appropriate for any certain populations (e g., athletes, elderly, etc.)? Would this diet be appropriate for all populations? Consider variables such as cost, cultural influences, and sustainability. Why or why not?
When searching the topic of diets on the internet, you will come across more false information than accurate information, so be sure and assess your sources’ reputability prior to using them to support your post.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
There are numerous popular diets today, and it can be challenging to determine which one is best for overall health. Thus, this assignment will review the Atkins Diet.
1. Describe the Diet Itself:
The Atkins Diet is a low-carb diet that focuses on eating high amounts of protein, fat, vegetables and minimizes carbohydrates. It is divided into four phases: induction, balancing, fine-tuning, and maintenance. The induction is the phase where carbs are severely limited to 20-25 grams per day, and protein and fat are emphasized. The balancing phase slowly increases carbs to determine a tolerable level, the fine-tuning phase adds additional carbs based on personal preference, and the maintenance phase is a long-term lifestyle change to maintain the desired weight. The diet restricts foods such as bread, candy, donuts, and other sweets, sugary drinks, pastries, rice, potatoes, pasta, fruits, and beans.
2. What Claims Does the Diet Make:
The Atkins Diet claims to result in weight loss with minimal hunger, decrease in blood sugar and insulin levels, improved skin, and less acne. However, some of these claims are not accurate or sustainable. The initial weight loss is mainly water weight and may result in increased blood cholesterol levels.
3. Would You Consider This a Healthy Diet Overall:
No, I would not consider this a healthy diet overall. The Atkins diet prioritizes high amounts of fat and protein while limiting essential carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. This diet may lead to additional health problems such as kidney damage, constipation, and fatigue. Furthermore, it may also increase the risk of heart disease due to its high-fat content.
4. Would This Diet Be Appropriate for Any Certain Populations:
The Atkins diet may be appropriate for athletes who participate in high-intensity sports or competitions where insulin sensitivity plays a role in performance. However, it may not be appropriate for the elderly or those with kidney disease, diabetes, or pregnant individuals as it may lead to additional complications. Additionally, factors such as cost and cultural influences may not make this diet sustainable or accessible for all populations.
