Low-Carbohydrate Diets

The Atkins Diet and the South Beach Diet are two low-carbohydrate diet programs that have experienced widespread popularity in the United States and around the globe. Most generally, low-carbohydrate diets are eating regimens that significantly limit the intake of carbohydrates, the macronutrient found in starchy foods such as bread, rice, and pasta. Notably, however, fruits and vegetables are also high in carbohydrates. Because of this, some health professionals criticize low-carbohydrate diets, as they may contain lower than the recommended amounts of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Despite these limitations and warnings, many people have adopted low-carbohydrate diets, swearing off bread and embracing bacon in an effort to lose weight.

This entry begins by chronicling the history of low-carbohydrate diets. Drawing from scientific weight loss studies, this entry ...