Different Diet Types

High carbs may hold the key

Need to up the carbs and lower the fat? The following popular plans (like the Ornish Diet or McDougall Diet) could offer the key.

Generally speaking, their pros and cons stack up like this:

Pros

Improved cholesterol levels
Lower blood pressure
More energy and stamina
Weight loss
Improved well-being

Cons

Too low in fat, per some experts
Too high in carbs, per some experts
Highly restrictive in food choices
May initially cause HDL levels to decrease
Simply click on one of the links below to read more about how a particular plan works, the science behind it, safety issues and even the diet's pros and cons. There are also links at the end of each section to buy the book or read related articles or other publications.

Much success!

The Ornish Diet
The Ornish Diet is a highly restrictive diet with less than 10 percent of calories from fat. The high-fiber, plant-based vegetarian diet does not include foods high in saturated fat, like nuts or avocados. Also tabooed are oils and animal products -- with the exception of nonfat milk, nonfat dairy and nonfat yogurt. Designed as a lifestyle modification plan, dieters are also expected to participate in moderate exercise as well as stress management techniques.


The McDougall Diet
Since high-fat diets have been linked to varied health issues -- such as heart disease, certain cancers, kidney problems, gout and arthritis -- McDougall developed a starch-based program, which includes pasta, potatoes, beans, rice and even corn, along with fruit and vegetables.