Research a diet currently being used by the public. It can be a
commercial diet such as Atkins, Weight Watchers; a regional diet such
as Mediterranean; or one that focuses on types of food such as vegan.
Identify the name of the diet and its purpose (weight maintenance,
long term health, etc.). Explain its key points in terms of nutrition
(focus on protein, carbohydrates, etc.). Also discuss the diet plan and
the diet’s strengths and weaknesses. Summarize your paper by
evaluating whether you believe the diet is one that is healthy as
compared to dietary guidelines.
The writing assignment should be no more than 2-3 pages and APA
Editorial Format must be used for citations and references used.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
As a medical professor, one of the assignments given to college students is to research a diet currently being used by the public and provide an evaluation of whether it is healthy as compared to dietary guidelines.
Answer:
The diet I have chosen to research is the Ketogenic diet. The purpose of the Ketogenic diet is to lose weight and improve overall health. It is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat and moderate-protein diet that aims to put the body in a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.
In terms of nutrition, the Ketogenic diet emphasizes the consumption of healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, and olive oil, moderate amounts of protein from sources such as meat, fish, and eggs, and low-carbohydrate vegetables like spinach and kale while avoiding high-carbohydrate foods such as grains, fruits, and sugars. By restricting carbohydrates, the body is forced to utilize fat as its primary fuel source, leading to weight loss.
The diet plan varies depending on the individual’s goals and needs but generally requires the consumption of meals that consist of 70-75% fat, 20-25% protein, and 5-10% carbohydrates. While the Ketogenic diet has shown to be effective in promoting weight loss and insulin sensitivity, it may lead to an increased risk of coronary heart disease due to the intake of high amounts of saturated fat.
The strengths of the Ketogenic diet include improved blood sugar control, reduced inflammation, and possible neuroprotective effects. However, its weaknesses include nutrient deficiencies due to the elimination of certain food groups, constipation, and an increased risk of kidney stones and other complications in those with pre-existing conditions.
In conclusion, while the Ketogenic diet may be effective in promoting weight loss and improving overall health, it should be approached with caution, especially in those with pre-existing conditions. A well-balanced diet that includes all essential nutrient groups is still the most recommended approach to maintain good health as compared to this diet.
