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Carbohydrate-limiting diets are an example of so-called “fad diets” that promise to help people shed weight simply by changing the types of foods they eat. Typically, people on carbohydrate-limiting diets are asked to switch to a high-protein diet rich in meats, cheese and other foods while avoiding fruits, vegetables, grains and other foods rich in carbohydrates.

However, experts stress that these diets do not work over the long run and are more likely to cause harm than to achieve good. Many people on carbohydrate-limiting diets do lose weight, especially initially when a lot of water weight is shed. However, weight loss tends to stop or reverse anywhere from six months to a year after beginning such a diet.

There are many myths that surround high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets. Proponents of these diets often recite these myths as though they were facts. People are urged to be cautious in accepting claims made by proponents of fad diets.

Experts stress that an excessive intake of calories (energy) causes weight gain, regardless of whether the source is protein, carbohydrates or fat. In addition, high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets tend to be very high in saturated fats and cholesterol, which increases the risk for many illnesses. Low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets also deprive the body of many nutrients that are essential to good health.