Protein Power
Eades, Michael and Mary. New York: Bantam Books, 1998.

Authors Background:

Michael and Mary Eades are physicians who focus on weight loss in their general family practice. Authors have NO formal training in nutrition especially as it relates to medical weight loss treatments. Information presented in the book is based on anecdotal evidence observed in the authors' patient population.

Diet Claims:

Insulin and glucagon are hormones responsible for regulating metabolism. Insulin promotes deposition of body fat stores whereas glucagons triggers the breakdown of body fat for energy. Some physiological effects of high insulin levels proposed in the book include the following:

1. Converts dietary fat into body fat.
2. Increased cholesterol production by the liver.
3. Increased fluid retention by the kidneys.

Insulin production is contingent on meal composition: (1) carbohydrates + fat or (2) high carbohydrates + low protein food combinations at meal times trigger high insulin levels. Dietary fat has a "neutral" effect on insulin levels; dietary protein in itself slightly increases insulin production. Dieter shouldn't "worry" about fat: select from suggested "healthy" fats including butter. Recommended protein intake: 0.6 g/lb. Body weight/day. Example: 150 lbs. man ~ 90 g protein/day (actually less than a an average intake of 100 g protein/day for most Americans). Recommended carbohydrate intake: initially < 30 g/day, then increased to 55 g/day (significantly less than the typical American intake of 275 g carbohydrate/day) specific daily caloric restriction defined but dieters are advised to not go below 850 calories/day. Lowering insulin levels by eating less carbohydrate is more important for promoting weight loss.

Foods Allowed:

All types of beef, pork, chicken, turkey, wild game, eggs; many non-starchy vegetables (except carrots), very small portions of fruits (except bananas), very small amounts of dairy products, grain products and dried beans. Foods Restricted:

VERY SMALL amounts of cereals, bread, rice or pasta products; corn, lima beans, peas & popcorn; medium or large portions of fruit or juice; refined sugar (especially that found in sweets and baked goods).

Sample Menu:*

Breakfast:
2 large poached eggs
1 slice light toast with 1 pat stick butter
1 oz breakfast sausage
Coffee, tea or mineral water

Lunch:
Tuna Pita-
   3 ounces canned tuna
   1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
   2 tablespoon light mayo
   1/2 large boiled egg
   1 sprig green onion
   1 tablespoon pickle relish
   1 leaf lettuce
   2 slices tomato
   1/4 c bean sprouts
   1/2 large white pita bread
   1 tablespoon sunflower seeds
   1 tablespoon sliced olives
   2 pickle spears
Coffee, tea or mineral water

Snack:
2 oz Gouda cheese
1 large orange

Dinner:
Grilled Salmon w/vegetables:
   4 ounces salmon
   1/2 tablespoon butter
   1 cup sliced zucchini
Salad:
   2 cups mixed greens
   2 tablespoons oil & vinegar dressing
   2 tablespoons shredded carrots
   2 tablespoons sliced radishes
   2 tablespoons sliced olives
   1/2 medium tomato
   2 tablespoons regular oil and vinegar dressing
4 oz white wine
Water

*Since menu portions are not specified, nutrition analysis is based on typical amounts consumed on a weight loss program.  

Nutrition Analysis of Sample Menu:*

Calories: 1631
Protein: 99 grams (24% calories)
Total fat: 91 grams (50% calories)
Carbohydrate: 94 grams (24% calories)
 
Saturated fat: 31.5 grams
Cholesterol: 746.6 milligrams
Sodium: 4389 milligrams
Fiber: 19.1 grams

*Menu items were imputed into NDS 2.93 data base for analysis.

Nutrition Shortcomings:

• Authors' claim that dietary fat intake is not important a factor for weight loss is misleading because dietary fat provides 9 calories/gram versus 4 calories/gram carbohydrate or protein. Low in vitamin D, zinc, calcium and iron.
• Eliminates many carbohydrate foods including some fruits. Long-term compliance to avoiding fruits, baked goods and sweets is difficult for many.
• Offers many protein sources that are high in dietary cholesterol and saturated fat which may increase blood cholesterol levels.
• Diet lacking in fiber and phytochemicals derived from carbohydrate-rich plant foods, especially whole grains. Difficult program to follow long-term for those who enjoy eating sweets, breads, fruits or other carbohydrate-containing foods

Authors do not outline the rate of expected weight loss for those using this diet plan. Instead, authors state that unsuccessful weight loss is often due to eating too many grams of carbohydrates (e.g. > 60 g/day).

Potential Health Problems:

Insufficient intake of vitamin D and calcium may contribute to development of osteoporosis. High intake of dietary cholesterol and saturated fat can increase risk of heart disease. Other possible health effects: cardiac arrthymias from electrolyte imbalances, lethargy and general weakness from being in a semi- or full state of ketosis.