What Is a High-Carb Low-Protein Diet?

A high-carb low-protein diet is one that consists of consuming a large amount of carbohydrates, such as bread, pasta and rice, in addition to eating a small portion of proteins. This type of diet can have several benefits on one's health, such as lowering cholesterol levels and increasing one's energy. A high-carb diet can, however, lead to increased fat storage in the body, and a low-protein diet can lead to a loss of muscle. As with any diet, someone on a high-carb low-protein diet should include exercise in his or her daily regimen to receive all of the diet's potential benefits.

Typically, when one chooses to eat a high-carb low-protein diet, and depending on one’s food choices, he or she might notice the benefits of eating a high-carbohydrate diet. High-carbohydrate foods such as kidney beans or whole wheat bread, which are both high in fiber as well, can help in lowering one’s cholesterol and in generally promoting overall good health. Further, when one eats a high-carb low protein diet, he or she might feel a bit more energetic. This surge of energy usually occurs because high-carbohydrate foods can help keep one’s blood sugar stabilized throughout the day, providing an increase in vigor.

A low-protein diet is often used by those who might have health issues with the kidneys or liver. What one typically eats on a low-protein diet are foods such as low-protein bread, pasta and beans. Usually, one will avoid most high-protein animal byproducts such as eggs, meat or milk when on a low-protein diet plan.

Although some people choose to eat a low-protein diet, it’s generally been known to result in muscle loss in one’s body. On a low-protein diet, the muscles in the body might not be receiving enough nutrition and will begin to break down and create their own amino acids for the body to use. Protein, as well as high-carbohydrate foods, help provide the body with good sources of nutrition. Someone who decides to eat a high-carb low-protein diet generally should look for ways to find balance in his or her diet.