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The Food Pyramid Updated 01 Dec 2007

What about Atkins and the Zone?

If you're an advocate of a low-carbo diet like the Zone, or the high-fat, high-protein Atkins diet, you're probably already shouting, "I told you so!"

Indeed, the Harvard research seems to validate some of what these diets propose. "In randomised trials, individuals assigned to low-fat diets tend to lose a few pounds during the first months but then regain the weight," says Willett. "In studies lasting a year or longer, low-fat diets have consistently not led to greater weight loss."

The Zone and Atkins both say that cutting out fat is not the key to weight loss. But the Harvard researchers do not advocate their low-carbo approach. Willett says wholegrain carbohydrates are extremely important. And he does not accept the Atkins view that you can eat large amounts of protein.

There are other problems with both the Zone and Atkins. The Zone is meticulous about quantities, which makes it very difficult to follow. Atkins is worse, because it encourages the consumption of both saturated and trans fats.

You might lose weight on either diet - but it could be in large part because you are eating less overall. But Atkins in particular may also increase your risk of other health problems, especially if you have kidney problems or are already at risk of heart disease.