The Atkins Craze and Low Carb Diets

There is an old saying that puts forth the proposition that we are what we eat. In the 21st century, this takes on additional meaning due to the emergence of nutrition issues which not only impact the lives of individuals today, but also will have long term health, social, and economic effects. No better example of such an issue exists today than the so-called "low carb craze", which maintains that a diet low in carbohydrates (breads, pastas, etc) and high in proteins (meat, animal products, manufactured foods) as well as the interrelated "Atkins phenomenon" (the Atkins Diet, which advocates the low carb/high protein approach). In this paper, various facets of these issues will be discussed in an effort to better understand the present and future situation, and to draw some educated conclusions based on research.

The Central Issue at Hand

The central nutrition issue at the core of the low-carb craze, as it has come to be known, is whether or not the adaptation of a low-carb, high protein diet will have an adverse effect on the individual over a long period of time. When considering strictly the appearance value of the low-carb diet, one finds it to be an excellent diet program, as the elimination of carbohydrates from the diet, which convert to sugars in the human body, does in the majority of cases lead to weight loss, which of course translates into at least the appearance of a healthier individual, based on the fact that they have lost body fat and are more visually appealing to others. Moreover, the loss of weight and the resulting positive body image in the eyes of the dieter usually makes the individual feel more positive about themselves, boosting self esteem, which in turn can equal more success in careers, interpersonal relationships, hobbies, and the like (Gabel, et al 2002). Beyond the façade of an apparently healthy person, however, are more serious, and negative consequences to fathom.