Low-Carb Diets and the Atkins Phenomenon Explained

Introduction: We Are What We Eat

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 that not only impact the lives of individuals today but will also have long-term health, social, and economic effects. No better example of such an issue exists 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, and manufactured foods) leads to better health outcomes. Closely related is the "Atkins phenomenon" — the Atkins Diet, which advocates the low-carb, high-protein approach. This paper examines various facets of these issues in an effort to better understand the present and future situation, and to draw informed conclusions based on available research.

The Central Issue: Health Benefits vs. Long-Term Risks

The central nutrition issue at the core of the low-carb craze is whether or not adopting a low-carb, high-protein diet will have an adverse effect on the individual over the long term. When considering strictly the appearance value of the low-carb diet, one finds it to be an excellent program, as the elimination of carbohydrates — which convert to sugars in the human body — does in the majority of cases lead to weight loss. This 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 usually makes the dieter feel more positive about themselves, boosting self-esteem, which in turn can bring greater success in careers, interpersonal relationships, hobbies, and the like (Gabel et al., 2002). Beyond the facade of an apparently healthy person, however, lie more serious and negative consequences to consider.

Opponents of the low-carb diet argue that the foods consumed in place of carbohydrates — such as processed meats and red meats — are categorically high in saturated fat, cholesterol, sodium, and other elements that have been linked to heart disease, cancer, and other conditions that kill millions of people every year, even those who appear outwardly healthy (The Low-Carb Craze, 2004). In such cases, the improved self-esteem and outward appearance of the individual is overshadowed by the increased risk of serious disease.

Societal Trends That Fuel the Low-Carb Craze

The low-carb craze is motivated and nurtured by societal trends that are as revealing about the values of modern society as any psychological study ever conducted. Few would argue that modern society holds beauty — or at least the appearance of health — as one of the most positive attributes a person can possess. When we meet others, or describe someone to others, we typically use physical appearance as the primary basis for evaluation before taking the time to understand the person beyond their outward presentation (Miller, 2000).

Societal criteria that privilege physical appearance over character and personality are reinforced by the image-conscious media of the modern era. People worldwide are obsessed with how they look, often more so than how they physically or emotionally feel. Celebrities, politicians, and other public figures are subject to this same societal judgment. Because of these well-established norms, it is easy to see how something like the low-carb craze would be welcomed by the public with open arms. Low-carb diets, far removed from old-fashioned starvation diets, allow the dieter to eat large quantities of food — albeit certain types of food.

Because of the enormous demand for low-carb solutions, figures such as Dr. Robert Atkins, creator of the low-carb, high-protein Atkins Diet, were elevated to celebrity status. Dr. Atkins preached a dietary gospel that, for better or worse, advocated the consumption of large amounts of meats, eggs, and related foods in an effort to lose weight. While the Atkins Diet resulted in weight loss for millions of people, its long-term effects remain questionable. Dr. Atkins himself died suddenly some years ago, and while his public relations team attributed his death to brain damage from a fall, widespread speculation held that he suffered a massive heart attack, possibly brought on by his own dietary program (Miller et al., 2000).

References

Cetron, M. J., & Davies, O. (2005, March/April). Trends now shaping the future: Economic, societal, and environmental trends. The Futurist, 39, 27.

Gabel, K. A., & Lund, R. J. (2002). Weight loss at a cost: Implications of high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets. JOPERD — The Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, 73(2), 18+.

The low-carb craze. (2004, October). Ebony, 59, 74+.

Miller, H. I., & Longtin, D. (2000). Death by dietary supplement. Policy Review, 15.