What is the Pritikin diet?
The Pritikin diet is named after its creator: Dr. Nathan Pritikin that created in the 80’s.
Initially used to treat heart disease, but when he saw that allowed to lose weight, began to be used also as a weight loss regimen.
Dr. Pritikin is author of “The Pritikin Principle, the calorie density solution (Pritikin Principle: the solution of the density of calories.) It explains the importance of basing food in natural products that have lower caloric density.
Pritkin diet is a diet that is based on the low consumption of fat and a diet rich in complex carbohydrates (75% -80%) and fibers. It basically consists of the consumption of vegetables, fruits, grains and cereals. Do not allow animal protein, processed foods (like pasta and bread), eggs, or most fat.
The Pritikin diet is the opposite of the Atkins diet, since in the latter consume large amounts of protein and minimal carbohydrates.
Like any system, the Pritikin diet has its advantages and disadvantages.
Key benefits of the Pritikin diet.
• The fiber and protein intake provides satiety, although some say the lack of fat leads to hunger and eat more than necessary.
• The consumption of complex carbohydrates like fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes, help you get better digestion.
• Contributes to lower cholesterol levels.
• The consumption of complex carbohydrates provides energy to the body and to get there is a better fat burning.
• Do not count calories or portion control.
Pritikin diet Disadvantages:
• It is a very restrictive diet as to what you can eat
• The fat intake is minimal. It is less rich in lipids (5% -10%) than is normally recommended.
• The dishes can be a bit dry and less tasty, by the type of foods in which they are based.
• You can get bored easily.
• Because of the scarcity of lipids, vitamins and other nutrients do not achieve effective absorption.
• The high fiber intake can irritate the intestines in some people.
• Increase your intake of sugars and carbohydrates, which represent a major source of calories.
Like any diet, should be supervised by a professional in the field, and combine it with an exercise program that fits individual needs.
