maintenance diet
maintenance diet
Fringe nutritionA part of the Atkins diet in which high-protein, high-fat foods are allowed ad lib; carbohydrates are restricted to 25–75 g/day.
Rationale
Atkins believed that decreased carbohydrates induce ketosis, resulting in mobilisation of fat.
Cons
Ketosis causes halitosis and may have adverse cardiovascular effects; excess proteins may cause renal damage, and excess fats are linked to atherosclerosis; lack of fruits and vegetables results in decreased phytochemicals; decreased carbohydrates causes premature fatigue in athletes, and possibly mental depression. Despite testimonies that the Atkins plan is effective, it is regarded as a major deviation from sound dietetic principles of weight loss.