worried about a friend. [atkins]
my friend tries her entire family to go on atkins get. Im worried about her family. She talks about her children go on so well (they are ages 3-10) . I do not want to criticize her decision, but Im afraid that her children go to really sick. I do not know if this is the right to this advice, but its the only advice I could think of. Is there any sites out there that might could help me with her to talk or something?
always,
layvandria
Reply:You absolutely have a right to be concerned. I do not advocate low-carb diets for anyone, but adults can at least make their own decisions.
The human body converts carbohydrates into glucose for fuel – In the absense of carbohydrates, the body will leach fuel from other parts of the body by converting some combination of fat and lean muscle mass back into glucose. You cannot dictate or control this process – in other words, you cannot convert only fat and not muscle – you will lose BOTH. An overweight person who is dieting CAN afford for this to happen because they are seeking erosion of the body (weight loss). But a growing child's body CANNOT afford this – they should be increasing lean muscle mass, not destroying it. This process can effect brain function as well, especially when there is no fat to convert into glucose. Also whole grains, dairy, fruits, and veggies provide essential vitamins and minerals needed for growth. Restricting a child's inake of these foods can be quite dangerous in the long-term and it can effect their ability to fight off diseases (cancer, heart disease, osteoperosis) in adulthood.
It is far better to teach children how to eat well. There is such a misconception that ALL carbs are evil. Children should learn the difference between good carbs and junk carbs and should be encouraged to eat whole grains, dairy, veggies, and fruit. There is nothing wrong with omitting sugar, white flour, cakes, cookies, candy, and junk snacks from the diet. But that is NOT the same as going on Atkins!
I would encourage your friend to consult with a nutritionist or dietitian before she inflicts this diet on her family. If you don't think she will, you could make some calls and/or search the web to collect information to present to her.
This really is a VERY bad idea.
Reply:*update*
She's started the diet but her kids are not participating. Even though they have to eat the low carb dinners but they get their carbs at school and they said that they where tired of having all the spaghetti and everything. but atleast it's not affecting the children.
Reply:Maybe I'm crazy, but that just sounds ubsurd!!
I just cannot stress it enough…Tell her to take her children to the doctor and let the doctor decide what would be best. If these children need to be on a diet in the first place, at their ages the doctor is the only one to decide what type of diet and program they can and should be on. Just tell her straight up, you are worried about their health because they are so young and you've never heard of children going on Atkins, especailly at their age.
Try to do a search on the net and see what comes up. Or call a pharmacy and see what they say. If you have your facts straight then at least she'll listen to some kosher advice, maybe?! Or at least it will be in her head. Sounds like you may be the only one to help these poor children so do every thing in your power to help. Good luck and please let me know what happens. Take care. Kristy.
Reply:she tried telling me that the atkins was good for the whole family. I'm like from what perspective? I have no problem with people on the diet, I just don't think that little children should be on it because it could f*** up their metabolism and lead them to serious health problems. :/
Reply:Hi,
You honestly have every right to be concerned. I would just remind her politly that before she puts any of her children on any type of diet she should check with their doctor. If she's a good friend she will value you your advice and realise that it's coming from your heart. I hope for their sake you do say something to her because they could get sick. I really don't think that Atkins is a diet for children. Good luck. Kristy.
Reply:well she has 3 kids, 3, 8, and 10. Well I just don't want her to think I'm meddling. :s. I'm just a bit worried. I'm hoping that she'll come to her senses. Her youngest is in daycare and eat oatmeal everyday almost.. I'm just worried that restricting his carbohydrate intake will **** him over if he goes to daycare and eats carbs through out the day.
Reply:Hi there,
I think you have every right to be worried. It's one thing for the family to go on it but for her to be putting her 2 children on it is just not right. :nono: I know my mother and sister went on Atkins and got sick. It does work for some people but I do know a few that it did not work for at all. Nobody should be putting there children on diets before talking to their physician. All I can say is to suggest that to her. And I sure hope that she does not decide to put them on it. Good luck, I hope it all works out. Take care. Kristy.
