High marks for protein - Letter to the Editor

Men's Fitness, May, 2002 by Rob Bridal

I am writing to comment on an article that appeared on page 54 of your February issue, titled "High Protein Gets Low Marks." I know it was only a brief on what the American Heart Association had to say on the diet, but I think it could be misleading. I am closing out my 11th month of this form of dieting, having lost 125 pounds. Both of my brothers started this form of dieting last month and have lost between 10 and 15 pounds each. This diet has been perfect for me thus far, [producing] absolutely no side effects and nothing but good things. My muscle mass has increased significantly since I started lifting again after Christmas.

The only two things of concern are the cost of low-fat, high-protein foods and the other side effect, constipation. It's easy to fix, using a supplement like Metamucil or, my favorite, Fiber Choice.

Anyway, after reading through this issue for about the eighth time, I couldn't help but comment on it. Thank you for your time.

--ROB BRIDAL, VIA MEN'SFITNESS.COM

Congratulations on the fat loss, Rob. However, if you lost 125 pounds over 11 months, it's our (safe) assumption your BMI was over 30 when you began your diet, classifying you as obese. As such, lowering your caloric intake in any manner would have resulted in some form of weight loss. It's highly probable that your continuous weight loss was tied to your regular exercise program. Remember, by increasing muscle mass you no doubt amped up your metabolism, which added to the weight loss as well.

We advocate a balanced, low-fat diet and call for a significant number of those calories to come from protein--but not to the exclusion of everything else. High-protein diets are lacking in minerals, vitamins and roughage, which is contrary to good health. Rob, the fact that your diet has forced you to resort to over-the-counter preparations for sources of fiber should tell you something's missing. Make sure to take a vitamin/ mineral supplement to offset any dietary deficiencies.