diet and heart effects

Posted by Lu on April 17, 1999 at 20:14:34
My husband is thinking of going on the Atkins Diet. Since he (Dr. Atkins)was a cardiologist, my husband thinks the diet will be okay to try. But I have many doubts, it goes against all we have ever been taught about preventing heart disease.
The diet would consist of eating all the fats and proteins he wants and only 20 carbs per day, it claims the body will burn excess body fat and will actually lower cholesterol.
What do your doctors think? Is this a quick buck scheme? Dr. Atkins claims it is excess carbohydrates and processed sugars that make us fat and at high rates for heart disease.?
I am awaiting your answer, BEFORE I let my husband go on the diet.
Thank you!
Lu

Posted by CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on April 18, 1999 at 10:30:18
Dear Lu
I agree with you. While the diet has certainly helped some people attain short term weight loss, it does not provide essential elements of an overall healthy diet. Processed sugars (and processed foods in general) are bad for health, however, and do contribute to obesity.
I hope this has been useful. Feel free to write back with further questions. Good luck.
Information provided here is of a general nature.  Specific diagnoses and treatments can only be made by your doctor.  If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment with a cardiologist at Desk F15.