Diets High in Fat & Protein

Diets that are both high in fat and protein are typically low in carbohydrates. This is only logical, as a diet high in all three macronutrients would not be much of a "diet" at all. For those disciplined enough to adhere to low-carb plans in the long term, they offer a plethora of health benefits, including decreased blood pressure, increased insulin resistance and decreased levels of body fat. What follows are several suggestions for those looking to ride the high-fat, high-protein roller coaster of a low-carb diet.

Protein Power Diet

The Protein Power Diet was co-authored by Michael and Mary Eades, two medical doctors living and working in Colorado. The main concept behind the Protein Power plan is that our bodies have not evolved much beyond the nutritional needs of our prehistoric ancestors. Thus, you should strive to eliminate consumption of grains (which are a relatively recent food product) and focus your nutrition around consumption of meats, fruits and vegetables.

Following the Protein Power Plan

During the initial phase of the diet, you must limit your carb intake to no more than 7 to 10 grams per meal. You should remain in this phase until you are very close to your ideal weight. At that point, increase your daily carb limit to 50 grams per day--remain here until you have met your target weight. Then, increase carbs to a maintenance level of 70 to 120 grams a day. Consume plenty of lean protein with every meal. No limit is placed on dietary fat in this plan, nor is there the need for calorie counting.

Life Without Bread

If that plan is too restrictive for your tastes, consider "Life Without Bread," a low-carb plan written by Wolfgang Lutz, a medical doctor from Austria. To follow the Life Without Bread plan, simply limit yourself to no more than 72 grams of carbs per day. Consume all the vegetables, meat and natural fat that you want. Some dairy is also permitted so long as you do not exceed your carb ceiling.

Stone-Age Diet

Dr. Mackarness, the physician responsible for running the U.K.'s first food allergy and obesity clinic, authored the Stone-Age Diet plan. Dr. Mackarness' plan calls for an initial fast, lasting up to a week (unless there are medical reasons to abstain). After this introductory period, you are to limit carbs to no more than 60 grams per day (preferably obtained through fruits and vegetables). Consume as much protein and fat as you want, trying to keep them in a roughly three to one ratio (three grams of protein for every gram of fat).

Neanderthin

A final high-fat, high-protein approach is Neanderthin, written by Ray Audette. The theory behind this diet is quite simple--you are to eliminate consumption of all foods that are "the product of technology." This includes beans, grains, coffee, peanuts, dairy, potatoes and sugar. There is no calorie counting, carb counting and no induction phase. Simply begin eating in accordance with these recommendations and the fat will peel off.