What’s the difference between the Atkins, Paleo & Keto Diets?

With the warmer months just around the corner, now is the time to think about creating a fit, healthy body.

The Atkins, Paleo and Ketogenic Diets are all designed to for weight loss by promoting fat burning.

The Atkins diet originated in 1972 and was the first high protein, low carbohydrate diet to become popular. It emphasises a diet high in animal protein and saturated fats and it was essentially the first ketogenic or fat burning diet.

Carbohydrate foods are practically eliminated from the diet in the initial phases with only 20 grams allowable in order for the body to start producing ketones for energy rather than relying on glucose from carbohydrates which if not burnt up, can promote fat storage.

Atkins devotees have reported lower cholesterol, lower blood sugar levels and fat mass. However, it is very low in fibre and plant foods which may result in constipation, especially in the early stages. You may also experience headaches, fatigue, muscle aches and bad breath as the body adjusts to using ketones for energy as opposed to glucose.

The Paleo Diet or Caveman Diet is a more modern twist on the Atkins Diet. It also works on the principle of a diet consisting of protein and fat being preferable to a diet high in carbohydrates. Paleo eating is also higher in fibre as it incorporates more vegetables and salads. If you think of a meat and vegie diet you get the picture. Grains are not recommended on this diet as it is virtually gluten and diary free.

The Paleo Diet also emphasises whole foods as opposed to processed foods. It is based on the hunter gatherer principle of hunting the meat and gathering the vegies to compliment it.

Whist both diets promote weight loss, it’s important to assess your individual dietary needs as not all diets are good for everyone. If you have nutritional deficiencies that you’re not aware off or you are taking certain medications, you can do yourself more harm than good.

Who knows maybe you’re better off being a Vegetarian!

So before you embark on a radical new weight loss regime, book an Initial Nutrition Consultation and find out which style of eating is going to produce the best results for you. We can also monitor your weight loss efforts with a Body Composition Assessment and help to keep you on track with nutritional guidance.

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