LOW CARB 101
An introduction to a low carbohydrate
lifestyle
Jacqueline A. Eberstein, R.N.
Why control carbs?
As of 2002 66% of adults in the US were
overweight or obese.
As of 2002 32% of children in the US were
overweight or obese.
Obesity is a major contributor to Type 2
diabetes and heart disease.
Other health consequences of
excess body weight
Hypertension
Abnormal lipids- elevated LDL and/ or
triglycerides, low HDL and small dense LDL
particles
Stroke
Gallbladder disease
Osteoarthritis
Sleep apnea and other respiratory conditions
Cancers including breast, colon and endometrial
Health consequences
Gout
Kidney stone formation
Fatty liver disease
DVT-deep venous thrombosis
PCOS
Infertility
Increased health risks to Mom and baby during
pregnancy and delivery
Negative psychological and social effects
What has happened?
Mid 1970’s major movement to low fat—more
carbs often of poor quality replaced fat and
protein
Low fat is less satisfying
Increase in convenience foods-high carb and
heavily processed
Super-sized portions
Excessive TV time especially for kids
Less family meals at home
Child directed advertising
US consumption data does
not support low fat nutrition
position
“ Most of us would have predicted that if we can get the
population to change its fat intake, with its dense
calories, we would see a reduction in weight” admits
Harlan. “ Instead, we see the exact opposite.”
Science Magazine, Harlan j. Onsrud, University of Maine.
Goals for Nutrition Management
Successfully achieve weight loss
Sustain weight maintenance
Promote general health
Address specific diseases
Be nutritionally sound
Atkins Nutritional Approach
The ANA is an easy to follow four phase controlled carb
program.
Includes supplements and regular exercise.
Addresses rebalancing the bodies’ hormonal systems.
One can consume more calories and lose more weight
than on a low calorie diet. This metabolic advantage is
supported by several research studies.
Includes satisfying foods that control appetite allowing
you to find the “right” amount of food without counting
calories.
Does not require low carb products. Emphasizes whole
foods.
Can be individualization to meet each persons needs.
How does the ANA work?
Carbohydrates and fat provide fuel for the body.
When carbs are available they are used for
energy first.
Any excess carbs and other foods are stored as
fat.
When restricting carbs the body burns fat next
causing weight loss or weight maintenance.
Controlling the quality and quantity of carbs
normalizes blood sugar, insulin, other hormones.
Research has shown improvements in CV risk
factors often better than a low fat diet.
Benefits of controlling carbs
Weight loss and maintenance
Improved health indicators-triglycerides, particle size of LDL,
improved blood sugar and insulin, HDL, A1C, inflammatory markers
Better mood regulation
Increased alertness and concentration
Cope with stress better
Decreased gastrointestinal symptoms
Better and more even energy levels
Appetite control, less need to snacks or preoccupation with food
Decreased need for caffeine for energy
Less reliance on prescription medications
Less joint stress
Less headaches
Atkins Nutritional Principals
Weight loss
Weight Maintenance
Good health and well-being
Disease prevention