The Atkins Diet
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According to Dr Atkins, insulin is the main
cause of weight gain and obesity.
When carbohydrates are consumed, insulin levels
rise. Insulin regulates the storage of fat. When insulin levels
are high, excess glucose is stored as fat.
The solution, accorsing to Dr. Atkins, is
to limit the intake of carbohydrates and increase consumption
of proteins and fats.
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Carbohydrates are limited to 20g initially
for rapid weight loss. This is done by eliminating high carb
foods such as bread, pototato, pasta, fruit, juices and candy.
Fats and proteins are the main source of fuel
on this diet. Meat, eggs, butter and most cheeses, can be
eaten without restriction.
The intake of carbs can be increased to a
level that maintains a desired weight
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The Zone Diet
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Like the Atkins Diet, the author claims that
insulin is the main culprit of obesity.
According to Dr. Sears, the ideal ratio of
carbohydrates, proteins and fats is 40-30-30 respectively
The author also distinguishes between "good"
carbs( such as vegetables) and "bad"
carbs (such as white bread, corn and pasta) on the basis of
their glycemic index: how rapidly a food is converted into
glucose
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Meals should contain carbohydrates, proteins
and fats in the ratio of 40-30-30 respectively. The "eyeball"
method is used as a guide:
Protein: about the size and thickness
of one's palm
Carbs: 2 fist-sized servings
of "favorable carbs" or one fist-size serving of
"unfavorable carbs"
Fat: a few nuts, some olive oil or a couple olives
to balance out the meal
One should eat five times a day (3 meals and
2 snacks).
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The Mediterranean Diet
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The basis of this diet is the relatively low
incidence of cholesterol and heart disease in Mediterranean
populations. Many health professionals attribute this to a
diet that is high in plant products and low in meat products.
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Large amounts of whole grains, fruit, vegetables, nuts, beans
and fish.
Moderate amounts of plant-based fats such as olive oil
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