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The myths surrounding low carb diets are as numerous as the diets themselves. These misconceptions basically are drawn from people eating very unhealthy diets that include no vegetables or fruits, and are basically eating fat-dripping bacon by the truckload and guzzling ice cream.

We are supposedly trying to lose weight, not die of a heart attack on these diets. Of course, following down the fat-laden road of bacon and ice cream without fruit and vegetables, could lead to dangerously poor health or even a heart attack. These are not true "low carb" diets.

The truth is that low carb diets focus on healthy, nutritious food, while at the same time reducing carbohydrates. These diets continue to show more and more positive results.

Some of the myths regarding low carb diets concern the following:

Myth 1: Low carb diets discourage eating fruits and vegetables. Nothing could be further from the truth. There are some vegetables (carrots or squash) that are discouraged in the beginning of the diet, but they are not forbidden.

Myth 2: Low carbohydrate diets have no fiber. This is extremely discouraging considering the fact that the basic components of the diet consist of vegetables and/or fruits.

Myth 3: Low carb is really no carb, but in actuality it means "low" in carbohydrates. It does not mean eliminate carbohydrates altogether. Carbohydrates are adjusted for each individual.

Myth 4: Increased heart disease, kidney failure, and loss of bone calcium is another unfounded myth. When you consider the fact that broccoli is one of the highest sources of calcium available to man, you have to wonder about the allegations made against the low carb diet.

Myth 5: The last myth I will address concerns Dr. Atkins himself and reminds me of the myths concerning Elvis' death. Dr. Atkins did not die of his own diet, but rather from injuries sustained in a fall. I rest my case.

The myths are just that-myths that are unfounded and unproven.

Learn more about this author, C. Kay Rowley.
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