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Eco-Atkins Diet Reduces Weight And Lowers Cholesterol

October 16th, 2009

An Atkins diet which substitutes plant-based proteins for animal-based ones can reduce weight and lower cholesterol, according to new research.

“In just two weeks on the Eco-Atkins diet, everything starts to look much better metabolically … I think this becomes an alternative for the heart disease reduction diet, which is obviously appropriate for diabetes,” said Dr. David Jenkins, University of Toronto research chair in nutrition and metabolism and lead author of a study on the new diet.

For his research, Jenkins maintained the typical high-protein, low-carb ratio of the Atkins diet, but in a way that could promote lowering of cholesterol and other risk factors for heart disease.

Forty-four participants who were overweight and had high cholesterol were assigned to two groups: Either a four-week regimen of a low-fat, low-carb, high-vegetable, plant-based protein diet including vegetable oil, gluten, soy, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and cereals or a four-week regimen of a high-carb, lacto-ovo (dairy and eggs only) vegetarian diet.

Although participants in both groups lost relatively the same amount of weight, nearly nine pounds, the plant-based protein diet group experienced additional improvements, including a 0.6 percent greater reduction in LDL (”bad”) cholesterol levels and lowered blood pressure.

The Eco-Atkins diet can be a more effective diet for weight loss, reduced cholesterol and overall health because it emphasizes eating nuts, fruits and vegetables and portion control. Newer dietary approaches for the prevention and treatment of chronic disease emphasize increased fruit and vegetable intake and reduced meat consumption. The diet can be easily incorporated into a busy, daily routine.

In addition to a healthy diet and exercise, acupuncture can aid individuals experiencing weight gain or those having difficulty maintaining a healthy weight. By increasing endorphin levels, acupuncture speeds up metabolism and also lowers blood insulin and lipid levels, which results in less insulin conversion into body fat. Selected auricular acupuncture points trigger electrical pulses that suppress appetite and minimize overeating.

Ear points selected for treatment improve digestion and absorption and have a calming effect. Body points selected tonify qi and circulate oxygen and blood with an emphasis on the stomach. Additional points may be selected to regulate the metabolic rate.

An effective weight loss management program includes acupuncture, dietary therapy, exercise, stress reduction, and lifestyle modification.

For information about dietary therapy and acupuncture for weight management call Dr. Richard Browne, Acupuncture Physician, at (305) 595-9500. 

 

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