Economist article takes swipes at Atkins

[probiotic]

I happen to be a fan of The Economist magazine, but the article (Sept. 9th) "The Atkins diet: Y oh Y?- An Explanation of how the Atkins diet works" contained some casual, foolish and poorly researched sniping. Much of the article is interesting and supportive of LC in that it mentions how diets higher in protein can create a fuller feeling by better stimulating the release of a "peptide YY." However, the article then jumps to the conclusion, without citing evidence, that this appetite suppression rather than any effect on metabolism, is behind the diet's success. That ignores the known effect of LCing on reducing insulin resistance, such that appetite suppression may be just one added reason, not the only reason that low carb diets work.

More troubling were the cheap shots directed by the ignorant or biased writer at the LC and Atkins diets. The article discussed how researchers are seeking to develop a drug so that "peptide YY might be used directly as a slimming agent, thus getting rid of the side effects of a diet composed of meat, eggs and cheese- such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and liver and bone abnormalities." Huh? Another cheap shot: that progress towards such a drug "is at least encouraging to those who find themselves unable to tolerate the idea of a steak-and-more-steak diet."

It's a pity that mainstream writers will take studies supportive of the LC WOE and still manage to bash LC diets as unhealthy fads.

[Nancy LC]

Like every other rag, The Economist doesn't always get it right.

[francisstp]

I'm living proof that reduced appetite is not the key for LC's successes, at least in some people. I eat like a freaking pig! Mainly high-fat, high-caloric foods.

I never restrain myself, ever, and yet I've lost almost 40 pounds in the 6 months since starting Atkins. I keep losing about 2 pounds a month, even when my activity level has dropped significantly since I've started University.

There has to be other factors in action...

[LC_Dave]

There is economic benefit to certain power brokers, to critisise the Atkins diet.

People who profit from obesity are legion!

[Ayustar]

Yeah, it must be all that appetite suppression....*cough*

I'll have a steak with a side of steak any day!

Pssst, they TOTALLY read the book!!!!

[catfishghj]

steak and more steak diet? I'm in.

[nawchem]

Hasn't it been 3 years since Dr. Atkins died? I think its a compliment that the argument didn't die with him. I think he really shook up the medical establishment, made a lot of them look like fools and their still not over it.