We've all heard the claims hat a diet high in protein and low in carbohydrates can help melt extra pounds. The so-called experts claim that by cutting way back on carbs we can reduce the fat stores in our bodies by decreasing the amount of insulin we produce. But if the thought of chowing down on a plate of bacon and eggs for breakfast, roasted chicken for lunch and a big juicy steak for dinner is about as appealing to you as snacking on rusty nails, you're in good company. Not only have groups like the Center for Science in the Public Interest and the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (both D.C.-based consumer advocacy groups) long admonished this type of eating plan, but now mainstream government-funded organizations are taking heed and warning consumers to tread carefully when it comes to these quick-fix diets.

The American Dietetic Association (ADA) is the latest organization to rail against this hype. In a statement issued in October, the ADA says, "A high-protein diet doesn't build muscle and burn fat as some people think. Only regular training builds muscle strength. Diets that focus on protein-rich foods, such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy, may be missing the nutrients obtained from fruits, vegetables and grain products." The group adds that these diets are potentially very dangerous. An excessive intake of protein can, for example, place a strain on the liver and kidneys, which break down and remove protein by-products. Another important point is that a diet high in animal protein is also high in saturated fat. Such eating habits have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

Finally, the statement warns, if you do lose weight on a high-protein plan, the weight most likely won't stay off. "For those who lose weight, rapid weight loss may be water, not body fat. This diet is not a healthy eating plan for lifelong health." The bottom line is that there's no magic bullet when it comes to weight management. We've said it before and we'll say it again: Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, cut back on fat and calories, and get regular exercise.

97 million--or 55 percent--of U.S. adults are overweight or obese. And nearly $240 billion is spent annually on obesity-related medical conditions, such as heart disease, hypertension and diabetes.

Source: American Obesity Association

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