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Are there potential problems with a high protein diet?

By Shereen Jegtvig, About.com

Updated: February 12, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Question: Are there potential problems with a high protein diet?
Answer: Many people have successfully lost weight with low carbohydrate, high protein diets, however there are some potential health concerns with being on a program like this for long periods of time.

One possible problem can be a lack of fiber in the diet, especially in the induction phase of Atkins. This can cause constipation in some individuals, but can be corrected by supplemental fiber.

Another concern of the induction phase could be for those people who seem to be sensitive to cholesterol in foods.

Another problem is the withdrawal symptoms. Some people suffer greatly for a few days while they are adapting to a low carbohydrate lifestyle. I have known several people who felt they were unable to continue the diet and reverted back to high carb eating.

There are also concerns with possible mineral loss in bones and with kidney stones. Atkins refutes these claims, although supplemental calcium and other minerals may be a good idea for low carb dieters.

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Nutrition

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