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Gwyneth Paltrow's Brittle Bones: Is Extreme Dieting to Blame?

By Mike Howard

It's been a couple of years now since I felt the need to vent about the stupidity of Gwyneth Paltrow's fad diets.

Well, it looks like her dieting practices may have caught up to her as she was recently been diagnosed with oseopenia - a precursor to osteoporosis -- at the age of 37.

Says Paltrow on her website Goop:

I suffered a pretty severe Tibial plateau fracture a few years ago (requiring surgery) which led the orthopaedic surgeon to give me a bone scan, at which point it was discovered I had the beginning stages of osteopenia."

She goes on to say;

I went on a prescription strength level of Vitamin D and was told to...spend a bit of time in the sun! I was curious if this was safe, having been told for years to stay away from its dangerous rays, not to mention a tad bit confused.

Anyone else see the irony in that she never once questioned the safety of the near-starvation diets and cleanses she was on (and advocating for) and yet she's highly skeptical about a bit of sunshine?

In any case, here are the most likely suspects of Gwyn's fragile bones.

The Macrobiotic Diet

First of all, any diet that considers broccoli a treat food is sadistic. That aside, Paltrow has been following the ~~rickets~~ Macrobiotic Diet for the better part of 11 years. The macrobiotic diet eschews red meat, dairy, and just about anything that tastes good. Eliminating meat products and dairy makes getting dietary calcium and vitamin D -- the building blocks of bone formation -- pretty difficult.

Maple Syrup Cleanse

Getting vitamin D sources from the macrobiotic diet is challenging. Getting vitamin D when you eat, well ... nothing ... is even more difficult. In addition to being low in vitamin D and calcium, both the macrobiotic diet and the maple syrup cleanse are woefully low in protein - another important factor when it comes to bone maintenance.

Heliophobia (fear of the sun)

The fact that Gwyneth Paltrow is paler than an albino vampire means that we can probably assume that she doesn't spend much time in the sun. Sensible sun exposure (in southern regions) is a surefire way to get vitamin D.

Lack of Strength Training

Yes, I said it, and I'll repeat: Gwyneth Paltrow does not strength train - she does thousands of reps of isolation exercises as per the advice of her brain dead trainer, Tracy Anderson. Let's be clear, all the strength training in the world won't rescue your bones from the perils of restrictive dieting, but Gwyn would be better served hauling around some heavier iron.

On the Bright Side

Despite my sardonic tone, I do think Ms. Paltrow can make good of this situation. What an amazing thing it would be if she would go on her blog and admit that her dietary practices have caused her brittle bones and warn others not to make the same mistake.

I guarantee you will see a post from me praising Gwyneth Paltrow. (Although I will never agree with naming your children after fruit, and Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow will always be a bad movie.)

*Thank you to Leigh Peele for the photo

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64 Comments

Spectra

Ha!! I knew it was coming! She has every single osteroporosis risk factor known to mankind, so I'm seriously not surprised that she has it now. Hopefully she will start trying to reverse the process by starting to actually eat and maybe stop listening to her idiotic trainer Tracy Anderson (who says that women shouldn't lift any weights over 3 lbs). She's so frickin' self-righteous and claims that she eats all kinds of stuff when we all KNOW she subsists on lettuce and an ounce of white fish every day.

Berzerker

While I agree she needs more sun for health reasons, I think she is naturally...As you put it, "anemic vampire". But this borderline racist statement doesn't surprise me; Just like the sickening notion in India where Bollywood actors are seen as "beautiful" with lighter skin, in America you are only beautiful if you are tan.
Oh, and FYI, the body stops producing vitamin D a while after receiving a sunburn, aka tan.

Mike Howard

Berzerker - couple of things.

You went on a tangent that had absolutely nothing to do with what I said - you created a straw man. My comment on Paltrow's lack of sun exposure is to do with health, not easthetics so your soapbox is a seperate issue. Whether she is naturally pale or not is irrelevant to the discussion. My point is that she wouldn't be that pale if she mixed in a bit of sunshine.

Also - please note I said "sensible" sun exposure. Would you agree that there is a difference between getting 10-20 minutes of sun daily and lying out in the sun all day to fry?

Berzerker

If you saw me you would understand - even though I make sure to get 20 minutes of sun a day (timed and all!) I still look like an extra for twilight. So yes, I found your choice of wording almost racist, but I also understand that in this society It's A-OK to call white people all sorts of ugly names and get by with it. I don't blame you for ignorance, because it's just so trendy.

And I stated that sunburn was unhealthy, not actual sun.
Quote: "While I agree she needs more sun for health reasons,"
So see my friend, we were agreeing all along!

Mike Howard

I get you, Bezerker - I meant no offense and I'm glad we agree for the most part!

hoosierville

Instead of being so vindictive you might actually do some research about bone density and vitamin d. Or if you're just to lazy here's a link:

"Sunlight and vitamin D for bone health and prevention of autoimmune diseases, cancers, and cardiovascular disease"
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15585788

There's this thing called the google that helps people look less stupid than they really are.

Mike Howard

hoosierville - your comment is confusing the crap out of me. You posted a study that confirms EXACTLY what I talked about in the post.

There's a thing called "reading" to make people sound less stupid than they are.

Yuji Tai

Hi Mike,

Thank you for the interesting topic.
Although hoosierville complained about lack of references
You have already showed them in your old entry...
Vitaimn D: Are You Getting Enough?
http://www.diet-blog.com/08/vitamin_d_are_you_getting_enough.php

The review hoosierville mentioned is really informative.

Thanks

Mike Howard

Arigatou gozaimasu Yuji-san! I meant to post this in the original article - thank you for digging it up!

CLS

GP suffered the fractures and osteoporosis because of one thing and one thing only: severe vitamin D deficiency.

As usual the AMA was snookered by the big drug makers and fed distorted research regarding bone disease and the limited effect of vitamin D. They recommended large amounts of calcium and of course, their potions.

Well reality has finally hit home. It is beyond clear they got it completely, utterly, horribly wrong. It should have been healthy amounts of vitamin D; far, far more than the meaningless quantities used for manipulated research. And much less calcium as well.

As a result of this epic misunderstanding millions of women suffered osteoporosis and became victims of snake oil like drugs which have limited, if any, effect. Do note Boniva class drugs have very recently been reported as being detrimental to long term bone health and contribute greatly to bizarre and once rare, fractures.

There is so much more pathology associated with chronic vitamin D deficiency it defies description. Suffice to say that statistically your present and future demise will be caused by a vitamin D deficiency disease (cancers, heart disease, diabetes and bacterial infection.

In the end if you are not concerned about your vitamin D serum levels than nothing else you do- health wise- will matter in the least.

You must maintain a serum level of at least 50 ng/ml, 25 OH D, or become old before your time like GP.

BTW she is not out of the woods by any measure as she had undoubtedly suffered severe vitamin D deficiency for years. Accordingly she will have to wait approximately 12 months from the correction to see what other early onset chronic diseases she could have developed during this time.

Mike Howard

Well said, CLS - Vitamin D deficiency is epidemic. It's something I've been advocating for a while now. I may actually link the article I wrote on it on the bottom of this piece.

Thank you for your comment.

Christopher Laing

The scary thing is that this condition can go on for so long without anyone questioning her pale appearance. While I appreciate that there are some people out there who may feel victimised in an anti-pale movement. The dissection of lifestyle choices is the real issue. Our ability to override our natural instincts (human consciousness) is what differentiates us from animals. I respect this and those who make these lifestyle choices. However, we need to look at the facts. This woman has made herself ill. I have had similar problems with vegetarian clients who don't know how to replace nutrients which they miss out with their exclusion of meat.

Don't get me started on Tracy Anderson. She was on a UK daytime talk show showing how 100 circles with your arm burns tricep fat on women.

Anonymous

Why judge her? A lot of people make themselves ill. People get cardiovascular disease because they eat too much high fat garbage-- people get lung disease because they smoke-- people kill their livers with alcohol... Why does GP get special treatment? When someone is struck by an obesity related diet issue are we as judgemental?

Mike Howard

Christopher's comments echo my sentiments precisely. The reason why I was "picking" on Paltrow is because she has a captive audience of millions. She feels at liberty to promote and share potentially dangerous advice.

This is exactly why I said in my last paragraph that I think Gwyn has an incredible public service opportunity to warn people that what she was doing wasn't actually healthy and was, in essence, risky.

Anonymous

I am not sure that the advice that she gives is particularly dangerous. There are definite benefits to a macrobiotic or even a raw foods diet.

Every day we are told that we deserve a break today and so eat at McDonald's, that we need bloomin' onions, that we need our baby back ribs.... This type of advice comes with a tremendous social and physical price tag-- but yet is nothing more than background noise. As soon as someone promotes a macrobiotic or raw foods diet-- this person is met with suspicion... It does not make sense particularly when the risks associated with the macrobiotic diet are far less than those associated with the standard american diet or even with these so-called healthy diets based on high protein intake. Indeed, Dr. Atkins was frankly fat and unhealthy for most of his life-- yet he was not criticized for this. Why criticize Paltrow for being a bit of a waif. I am a waif and will accept this over the alternative.

Anonymous

Poor Gwenyth-- I have had a diagnosis of osteoporosis since I was 25, and yes, I am betting that being underweight had something to do with it, but a genetic bone disease also played its part. The truth is that tall thin woman are at a greater risk for osteoporosis than short curvy women. Who knows why Gwenyth has it? Maybe it was her diet-- (although there is nothing wrong with a well thought out macrobiotic diet). Maybe it was simply genetics. Or maybe she is now simply falling in that age range were bone density concerns become more important. For those with risk factors-- 37 is certainly not too young to start thinking about that bone scan.

I guess what bothers me about your comments is the underlying smugness-- the gee I told you so and am so glad that I am right attitude. It is terrible when someone suffers a health set back-- even when this set back is brought on by their own habits. Do I get all snarky about someone who has had a heart attack- "gee, I told you those french fries would eventually clog your arteries... chuckle, chuckle." Of course not! Well, guess what? It is a too way street. We all make decisions about our health for good or for ill. I do. You do, and apparently Gwenyth does as well.

Mike Howard

First of all, I am sorry to hear of your diagnosis. How are you managing?

There may very well be a genetic or another unknown component as to why she has osteopenia - but her extreme dieting combined with lack of vitamin D intake/supplementation very likely excelerated any hereditary predisposition.

I didn't mean to make light of this situation. I wish Gwyneth Paltrow all the best. Again though, I hope she comes clean as to WHY she has been stricken with this disease and warm others who have been (or are

Leigh Peele

I can say that I feel bad anyone would have to go through any disease or disability. That being said...

The problem comes in because the very diet and training strategies that are advocated by Gwyneth and her trainer are the very strategies that research show can lead to these types of problems. If Gwyneth were not connected to the field or even just a proponent for her trainer, there would be no issue in my mind. The fact of the matter is she has a company and investments that propose and advertise these methods of diet and training, for profit. That changes the situation and puts it under scrutiny.

If the method of your lifestyle is the product, and the product is causing harm this isn't a case of sending get well flowers, this is a case of recall.

Anonymouse

Also, you might want to recheck your data on protein... An excessive intake of protein actually contributes to bone loss.

Mike Howard

This issues a bit trickier to explain so please bear with me.

There was a widespread belief that higher protein intakes leached calcium from the bones. Upon reviewing of these studies a few things became apparent.
1. Studies showing ingestion of protein increasing urinary calcium excretion were based on isolated protein feeding.
2. Studies showing calcium loss with higher protein intakes also had low calcium intakes. Some researchers have hypothesized that elevated protein may exacerbate calcium loss in cases of low dietary calcium intakes. In short, if protein has a negative effect, its only under conditions of low calcium intake.

More recent studies have shown a positive effect of protein intake on bone health. The theory is that elevating protein intake increases levels of IGF-1, which has bone-building properties.

Here are some studies that support higher protein and bone mineral density and/or fracture risk reduction.

http://jn.nutrition.org/cgi/content/abstract/134/3/568

http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/abstract/77/6/1517

http://aje.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/155/7/636

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1970070?dopt=Abstract

http://www.annals.org/content/128/10/801.abstract?ijkey=30dd10ddeefea7c3b0fe089cbec88dc0098c9f49&keytype2=tf_ipsecsha

anonymous

All of these articles seem to deal with the same two studies.... Also, they are supplementing calcium (a known treatment and preventative) along with the protein. How do you know it is not the other way around? Perhaps the results are due to the calcium? There are other studies that would suggest the opposite-- that a diet high in animal based proteins makes the body more acidic which in turn decreases bone density (just as drinking soda and coffee contributes to bone loss)

http://www.annieappleseedproject.org/higanprotbon.html

Of course as a culture we love our animal based food sources and so are much more apt to accept data that proves that these foods are good for us than data that proves otherwise. Indeed, there is this new tendancy to reject any diet not linked to the meat industry as being somehow dangerous.... hummmm....

Mike Howard

The studies are all different trials. Yes, calcium is vital when it comes to bone formation. Read my initial comment on the issue of protein and bone health.

Take a good look at the last link. Both the control group and the intervention group received calcium and vitamin D supplementation. The intervention group received an additional 20g of protein supplement. The intervention group (protein supplement) experienced more favourable bone mineral density results, had less fractures and shorter stays in palliative care than the control group.

Anonymouse

I think that the thing to take away from this is that a moderate diet is what is needed. The distinction is that a diet that is too high in animal protein will have the opposite effect. Indeed, I was told to cut protein from my diet and am better for it.

helpful

I'd put it down more to the diets (which leave out entire food groups) than her exercise regimen per se, which is not dissimilar to other dance/stretching type workouts out there.

And, "weight-bearing" exercise can be as easy as going backpacking (rather than pumping iron) and a lot more fun. Or lifting your own kids and not having household help. Or doing some pushups.

I hope she gets the medical care she needs, and people should be reminded that slender does not automatically mean healthy. Looks can be deceiving.

Anonymous

Hello and thank you for the links, I have switched to a vegetarian diet and have gone from having severe osteoporosis to osteopoena. Much of this progress had to do with being able to gain weight. On the standard American protein based diet I could not break the 90-100 pound range (at 5'4) and was constantly tired-- and was told on several occasions that I was going to die. I got no help whatsoever-- only the knowledge that I was going to die if I could not gain the weight-- (which was why I went to the doctors to begin with). As soon as I switched to vegetarianism (within two months), my weight stabilized at a strong 110-120 and has been there ever since. I avoid having too much fat and protein-- and eat mostly whole grain carbs, veggies, and fruit. I am now quite healthy and have been for 8 years (with readings that any 20 year old could be proud of). I guess my point is that we all have to make intelligent decisions about what is good for our own health-- every BODY is different. One diet does not fit all. People should not be judged because of this. Gwenyth has several risk factors for osteoporosis. Who can say which one actually led to the condition or if indeed her bone density is simply not naturally low? or diminishing as she enters middle age? Indeed, it is possible that she has other risk factors far worse than osteoporosis lurking in her body, e.g. for heart disease or cancer, that are being kept in check by her macrobiotic diet. We will never know will we?

It is ironic to me that macrobiotic and raw foods diets are often met with suspicion, while people will swear by high protein diets defending them to the death. This is despite the fact that high protein diets are environmentally unsustainable, often result in weight relapse, and are unhealthy-- particularly hard on the kidneys. The truth is that almost any diet is good provided that it includes balance-- that it does not go to the extreme in any direction. The dieter also has to be educated and disciplined enough to make good food choices-- to ensure that he/she is getting the right combination of foods to ensure good health. This does not always happen-- which is why these diets sometimes get an undeserved bad wrap.

Also, keep in mind that some people go on raw, vegan or macrobiotic diets because of social consciousness. They know that the diets come with risks, but decide to assume these risks for the benefit of the world. There is nothing wrong with this in my book. We are as much social bodies as we are physical bodies.

Gwenyth probably will never come out and say that her diet caused her bone density issues.... and why should she? She will never know for sure whether diet is to blame or not. Also, lots of women have low bone density (even in their mid to late thirties) for various reasons. These women are not blamed for their disorder!!!!

Unless there is an obvious disease pathology, doctors rarely address the causes of low bone density anyway-- It is all a matter of guess work and speculation. Even in my case where my bone loss is clearly linked to bone tumors-- doctors are still hesitant to ascribe this as a cause (despite piles of research demonstrating otherwise). How much more hesitant are they when the cause could be any number of different things??? No-- I am sorry, but I still think that we are jumping the gun in calling poor Gwenyth on the carpet for the consequences of her choices....

Anonymous

cont...

Also, for every one person who suffers the consequences of being too thin.... How many more people out there are suffering from being too heavy? Anorexia aside, I do not know one person who has diet from a macrobiotic diet, or by making a mistake with a diet. Indeed, these people seem to be healthier than most of my other peers. However, I have counted at least 12 people who have died with diseases where obesity is at least a risk factor....

As for GP's pallor-- She is obviously a woman of northern descent-- Nordic types simply have whiter skin than more equatorial types. My father also has this pale skin type-- and trust me, as a tough nosed military man who in his own words has been "hit with the ugly stick" on numerous occasions-- he is not at all interested in maintaining that Scarlet O'Hara lily white glow. Indeed, this type of skin will burn if it is not adequately protected. This is not the type of skin that tans well, and indeed, these people are turned away from reputable tanning salons (I know-- I have tried).

This being said-- Gwenyth should not be criticized for her skin tone- or if you want to criticize pale skin in general than you would also have to criticize my old man-- and that is something that I do not recommend.

Mike Howard

I think it’s wonderful you’ve found what works for you. I’m in favour of any diet that is healthy and people can stick to. I do have some thoughts on your other opinions, however;

"Who can say which one actually led to the condition or if indeed her bone density is simply not naturally low? or diminishing as she enters middle age? Indeed, it is possible that she has other risk factors far worse than osteoporosis lurking in her body, e.g. for heart disease or cancer, that are being kept in check by her macrobiotic diet. We will never know will we?"
----------------------------------------------------
While we may never know to what degree genetics were involved with Gwyn’s brittle bones, one thing is certain. Her diet took any genetic predisposition and made it worse. It would be folly to think otherwise given that she was doing (as Leigh put it) exactly what science dictates is bad for bone health.

“It is ironic to me that macrobiotic and raw foods diets are often met with suspicion, -while people will swear by high protein diets defending them to the death.”
-----------------------------------------------------
Nonsense – high protein diets are met with suspicion as well. And people defend raw food diets to death too. Would you agree that extremists exist in both camps?

“This is despite the fact that high protein diets are environmentally unsustainable, often result in weight relapse, and are unhealthy-- particularly hard on the kidneys.”
-----------------------------------------------------
Environmental sustainability aside, weight relapse can happen with any fat loss effort – regardless of the eating pattern. And higher protein diets are not harmful on healthy kidneys – this is a rape of the literature – extrapolated data used from kidney patients and intellectual laziness on the scientific community who continue to propagate it.

“The truth is that almost any diet is good provided that it includes balance-- that it does not go to the extreme in any direction.”
-----------------------------------------------------
Agreed.

“Also, keep in mind that some people go on raw, vegan or macrobiotic diets because of social consciousness. They know that the diets come with risks, but decide to assume these risks for the benefit of the world. There is nothing wrong with this in my book."
----------------------------------------------------
I agree with vegan/vegetarian diets on the basis of ethical rationale. So do you concede that the macro diet can be risky? Insofar as taking on health risks for the betterment of the planet – I think there’s a happy medium in there somewhere. There are many ways to benefit the planet and still eat animal protein.

“Gwenyth probably will never come out and say that her diet caused her bone density issues.... and why should she?”
-----------------------------------------------------
Because her dietary behaviour is conducive to deteriorating bone mineral density and sets a horrific example to people everywhere.

Anonymouse

I have been to one of the best nephrologists in the country-- This is what I have been told and I trust this advice. Maybe he is secretly out raping literature at night, but during the day he is a good doctor and his advice has turned my life around.

Indeed, kidney stress is often measured by the amount of ketones released into the urine.... This is the same way that the efficacy of the high protein diet is measured.... hummmmmm... If I have high ketones-- I have to go to the ER... If someone on a high protein diet has them-- congratulations the diet is working.... Ketoacidosis is bad for you regardless of the cause.

Anonymouse

Also,

How is what GP doing any different from what you are doing here? You are both publically presenting information about diets that you are enthusiastic about-- diets that are in some ways controversal.

People do not change their diets based on any one source. They may be inspired to try different things, but if they are not up for a switch than no external influence is going to make them commit to any change- particularly in regards to diets that are in some way challenging. They will most likely relapse back to their old habits. People have to be trusted to make their own decisions. The idea that people are all damaging their health because they are following GP into dietary disaster is illusion.

Anonymouse

As for the macrobiotic diet being risky.... Sure. Any person who follows a diet without understanding enough about the diet to achieve the right nutritional balance or who is unwilling to put the effort into the diet that is required to create balanced meals, runs the risk of creating health problems.

Indeed, I was in McDonald's the other day and some 300 pound man was screaming because they put salt on his french fries. Apparently, he was on a special diet to lower his blood pressure.... Now there is a guy headed for a heart attack.... People need to be informed. Indeed, almost any diet is healthy if it is informed. Any diet is unhealthy if it is done haphazardly and without the proper level of understanding.

Mike Howard

If you've seen a nephrologist, can I assume you've had issues with your kidneys? Perhaps this is why he felt the need to recommend a lower protein intake? If your nephrologist told you that higher protein intakes adversely affect the kidneys than he is misinformed and ignorant of the research.

Again I will repeat: In those with normal kidney function, there is no evidence that higher protein intakes lead to kidney issues.

Regarding ketones - having ketones in the urine poses absolutely no risks whatsoever. Ketosis is different from ketoacidosis. Ketone bodies do not cause ketoacidosis.

Here are some studies on high protein diets and kidney function.

http://www.annals.org/content/138/6/I-51.full
In multivariate linear regression analyses, high protein intake was not significantly associated with change in estimated GFR (glomerular filtration rate) in women with normal renal function

http://www.nutritionandmetabolism.com/content/2/1/25
While protein restriction may be appropriate for treatment of existing kidney disease, we find no significant evidence for a detrimental effect of high protein intakes on kidney function in healthy persons after centuries of a high protein Western diet.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10722779
"It appears that protein intake under 2.8 g.kg does not impair renal function in well-trained athletes as indicated by the measures of renal function used in this study"

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10578207
"Moderate changes in dietary protein intake cause adaptive alterations in renal size and function without indications of adverse effects."

Eur J Clin Nutr 1996 Nov;50(11):734-40
Effect of chronic dietary protein intake on the renal function in healthy subjects.
Brandle E, Sieberth HG, Hautmann RE.
"This investigation shows that chronic oral protein intake of widely varying amounts of protein is a crucial control variable for the glomerular filtration rate in subjects with healthy kidneys."

Am J Kidney Dis 2003 Mar;41(3):580-7
Association of dietary protein intake and microalbuminuria in healthy adults: Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

"Dietary protein intake was not associated with microalbuminuria in normotensive or nondiabetic persons."

Now I would be happy to see any studies you can provide on high protein diets negatively affecting the kidneys.

Mike Howard

You said:

"How is what GP doing any different from what you are doing here? You are both publically presenting information about diets that you are enthusiastic about-- diets that are in some ways controversal."

If you think this blog is about endorsing diets of any kind - I suggest you take a closer look and read more of the posts.

This blog is about a wide variety of topics related to nutrition, health, weight loss and other related issues. We present stories, opinions, tips, thoughts and other items we think are of note or value.

You said:

"The idea that people are all damaging their health because they are following GP into dietary disaster is illusion"

I think that many people want to look like GP, I think many people will read about what she does and try to follow what she does. It would be folly to think that people will just use their better judgement when in comes to weight loss. I've been in this game too long to see it any other way.

Anonymous

Sorry-- but I have to trust the advice of a nephrologist, who is considered one of the ten best kidney specialists in the midwest, over a blogger....

Anonymous

Hello Mike-- You are obviously never going to acknowledge that there are risks to a high protein diet (or at the very least that there are other perspectives concerning the safety of this particular diet strategy).... For the sake of balance, here are some links on the dangers of a high protein diet, particularly on the effects that such diets have on the kidneys.

http://www.diseaseproof.com/archives/diet-myths-how-a-highprotein-diet-works.html

http://www.atkinsdietalert.org/

http://women.webmd.com/guide/high-protein-low-carbohydrate-diets

http://www.rawfoodexplained.com/the-dangers-of-a-high-protein-diet/

It is important to me that people know that high protein diets are just as controversial as macrobiotic diets. Indeed, in the opinions of many nutrition experts high protein diets are actually more dangerous. I am not saying that such diets do not have benefits.... Indeed, high protein diets often result in rapid (albeit transitory) weight loss. However, I think that people should know that these diets also come with their own set of risks. The truth is that very few people suffer from a protein deficiency. Indeed, in general we are getting far too much protein in our diets.

Mike Howard

"Hello Mike-- You are obviously never going to acknowledge that there are risks to a high protein diet (or at the very least that there are other perspectives concerning the safety of this particular diet strategy)...."
-----------------------------------------------------
I will acknowledge that there are risks to moderately high protein intakes (30-35% or 1g/lb.) when anyone presents a scientifically legitimate reason for such. I am aware that there are other perspectives and as I've told you already - they are based on junk science. I've provided studies that refute these claims and you've chosen to ignore them

"For the sake of balance, here are some links on the dangers of a high protein diet, particularly on the effects that such diets have on the kidneys."

http://www.diseaseproof.com/archives/diet-myths-how-a-highprotein-diet-works.html
-----------------------------------------------------
This piece is full of conjecture. He makes unsubstantiated claims without backing it up and the references he does cite deal with those who have already had kidney issues. He makes a leap of faith based on studies of those with pre-existing kidney pathologies.

"http://www.atkinsdietalert.org/"
-----------------------------------------------------
McDougall and the PCRM pull the exact same stunt as Dr. Fuhrman. They pull studies from populations with kidney function problems and try and relate it to healthy populations.

"http://women.webmd.com/guide/high-protein-low-carbohydrate-diets"
-----------------------------------------------------
No references to speak of here - only misleading and unsubstantiated statements.

"http://www.rawfoodexplained.com/the-dangers-of-a-high-protein-diet/"
-----------------------------------------------------
Again, conjecture and noise with no science. Frankly it should have been written in crayola.

"It is important to me that people know that high protein diets are just as controversial as macrobiotic diets."
-----------------------------------------------------
This may be true but the crux of the issue is the scientific justification of the controversy. The macro diet can be healthy but it is inherently restrictive and nutritionally deficient.

"Indeed, in the opinions of many nutrition experts high protein diets are actually more dangerous."
-----------------------------------------------------
I'm not interested in opinions without scientific backing. Spouting lies loud and often enough do not make them true.

"However, I think that people should know that these diets also come with their own set of risks. The truth is that very few people suffer from a protein deficiency. Indeed, in general we are getting far too much protein in our diets."
-----------------------------------------------------You continue to make broad-based and yet scientifically baseless arguments about the supposed dangers of higher protein diets. You have not provided an iota of evidence to support this, however.

Again, I'm not here to convince you that "my way" is better than "your way". There are many paths towards optimal health. Do expect to be challenged, however when you make misleading, incomplete and utterly false statements about nutrition. I hope you will at least read some of the studies I've posted so that you may at least have some balanced perspective when discussing dietary issues.

Anonymous

Also, you are not understanding Ketones... and so are giving dangerous advice here. Ketoacidosis occurs when ketones build up to a dangerous level in the blood stream. This is a documented risk factor for people on high protein diets. It does not matter what is causing the ketones... Ketoacidosis is dangerous and can lead to death. Chronic high levels of ketones can cause liver and kidney disease (problems that are even more dangerous and debilitating than the dreaded Osteopoenia)

Mike Howard

Actually, it seems that you are the one who is misinformed about ketones. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a condition confined to type I diabetics and ONLY happens when uncontrolled by insulin. Ketoacidosis doesn't occur in normal healthy individuals because of the presence of insulin.

Further, ketosis happens in the absence of carbohydrates - period. Ketones are not a mark of "high protein" diets - they are a marker of very low carbohydrate. You be in a state of ketosis on a relatively low protein intake.

I am not going to explain that again so read it over and over if you must. And again, if you disagree with it PRESENT SOME EVIDENCE. Spouting mistruths over and over again doesn't make them any more true.

Anonymous

No-- while ketonacidosis is associated with diabetes-- it is but one of many causes, another of which is a high protein diet. If you read the WebMD article (which is quite basic) on this condition it may clarify things for you

While you accuse me of letting my belief systems get in the way of my observations.... You have developed the belief that macrobiotic diets are bad and refuse to consider any data to the contrary. You then have targeted an individual who is suffering from a minor health problem and who happens to be on a macrobiotic diet as a way of critiquing this diet. You openly admitted that you have never liked this person-- and indeed, it seems that your dislike for this woman has colored your article. So now you have the nerve to suggest that my belief systems have gotten in the way of my objectivity? Incredible.

You said yourself that you are not a doctor or a nutritionist-- and so why should I take your advice over the advice of someone recognized in the fields of medicine and nutrition? Actually, to me you seem to be so stubbornly in support of high protein diets that you are absolutely unwilling to look at any of the data that might suggest that such diets are problematic-- at least to some dieters. You also freely jump to conclusions concerning the health of someone who you know nothing about-- despite the fact that any conclusions that you make are bound to be incomplete at best, wrong and hurtful at worst. I am also quite suspicious that my links have not posted... It is obvious that you do not like to be challenged.... But really, your lack of objectivity and failure to present multiple perspectives is really egregious.

Mike Howard

Translation: I will ignore every study your post because it doesn't fall in line with my belief system.

Oh and I must have missed the "Nephrologist" awards this past year where they rank them into top 10 lists. Imagine if your doc actually read research papers? He'd crack the top 5 midwest neprologists list for sure.

Like I said, if you have evidence that healthy people are at risk for kidney issues due to higher protein intakes, do present some evidence.

Anonymous

I have tried-- my links are never posted. However, if you Google the dangers of a high protein diet-- you will come up with some data. Indeed, there is an entire website dedicated to information on the dangers of a high protein diet.

Mike Howard

Hi Anonymous - to your comments;

"No-- while ketonacidosis is associated with diabetes-- it is but one of many causes, another of which is a high protein diet. If you read the WebMD article (which is quite basic) on this condition it may clarify things for you"
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If you can provide me with documented case studies where NON-IDDM DIABETICS have suffered from ketoacidosis I would be happy to take a look. post the link to the WebMD peice and I'll have a look. I'm not sure what it will "clarify" for me, though? Again - ketosis is a state brought on by extreme low carb diets, not high protein per se (although they are often synonymous).

"While you accuse me of letting my belief systems get in the way of my observations.... You have developed the belief that macrobiotic diets are bad and refuse to consider any data to the contrary."
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All diets have merits and limitations. I never outright said that macro diets are "bad" - I was commenting on them within the context of this particular case and stated a fact - they are low in vitamin D. They can be unnecessarily restrictive and nutritionally deficient.

"You then have targeted an individual who is suffering from a minor health problem and who happens to be on a macrobiotic diet as a way of critiquing this diet."
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The post looked at other factors of GP's lifestyle that may have contributed to her brittle bones.

"You openly admitted that you have never liked this person-- and indeed, it seems that your dislike for this woman has colored your article. So now you have the nerve to suggest that my belief systems have gotten in the way of my objectivity? Incredible."
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First off - please show me where I said I've "never liked this person" or cease and dissist with your straw man argument. And yes, I think you are a poster child for confirmation bias - considering your obfuscated and evasive responses to the evidence I'm sharing that refutes your sacred cows.

"You said yourself that you are not a doctor or a nutritionist-- and so why should I take your advice over the advice of someone recognized in the fields of medicine and nutrition?"
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The short answer is; you shouldn't. Do the homework, read the studies and try and grasp the entire weight of evidence before making generalized and glib proclamations about nutritional science.

"Actually, to me you seem to be so stubbornly in support of high protein diets that you are absolutely unwilling to look at any of the data that might suggest that such diets are problematic-- at least to some dieters."
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Actually, I don't cling to any one dietary protocol or pattern. Like I've told you - you found what works for you and that's fantastic. Just realize that there are other eating patterns out there that are healthy as well. That said, the literature is rife with the benefits of moderately high protein intake when it comes to body composition, protein trunover, blood lipids and other health markers.

"You also freely jump to conclusions concerning the health of someone who you know nothing about-- despite the fact that any conclusions that you make are bound to be incomplete at best, wrong and hurtful at worst."
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I could be wrong but a) I don't think I am. and b) if I am wrong, the consequences aren't nearly as dire as you would suspect. In fact, if I'm wrong, I figure I can at least steer some people towards more sensible eating so that others will not suffer brittle bones at such a young age. Everything GP was doing diet and lifestyle-wise is what science dictates is bad for bone health.

"I am also quite suspicious that my links have not posted... It is obvious that you do not like to be challenged...."
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I have no idea why your links are being posted - they are usually held for a bit (in case they are spam). Please do post them and I will approve them right away. I can assure you I'm not deliberately disallowing your links.

"But really, your lack of objectivity and failure to present multiple perspectives is really egregious."
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Tell me which perspectives you feel I'm egregiously missing out on and I'll address your concerns.

Mike Howard

The only "data" you come up with are alarmist and unscientific (but scientific-sounding) websites that are cheerleaders for vegan diets. I suggest you take a more objective look at the evidence and google pubmed rather than actively seeking out information that conforms to your belief system.

Anonymous

How would anyone else be able to judge the nature of my sources-- since you seem unwilling to post any of the information that I have provided? You ask for case studies-- and then fail to post them. You ask for evidence, fail to post my links and then accuse me of not presenting evidence.

Also, I am well aware that there are other eating patterns out there. You assume that I am vegan-- I am not, (although I am considering a transition to this diet plan). I have even acknowledged the value of the high protein diet in helping people to quickly lose weight quickly. You however have been unwilling to even explore any of the positive aspects of macrobiotic or vegetarian diets. Keep in mind that what might be a good diet for one, might not be a good diet for another. Clearly, as a 110 pound woman my dietary needs are going to be different from your dietary needs. I do think that it is ironic that you accuse me of being alarmist when you seem to think that people are going to start starving themselves to death simply because of what GP says, does or eats.

As for your dislike of this particular actress-- read your own article.... Clearly you have had an axe to grind for a few year s (as is indicated by your opening line). Gee-- you refer to her as Heliophobe--- that's not nice. That's not objective.

I do not think that continuing this discussion is going to be productive. Clearly we have different perspectives in regards to this issue. I think that you are unscientific and biased and you think that I am unscientific and biased-- this will not change. I am sorry that I did not like your article-- Because of my circumstances, I have done considerable research on this topic, and so like to discuss it. I do prefer a balanced vegetable based diet-- As I said again-- it is more about HOW a diet is executed than about the diet itself. I can not continue this discussion- places to go, people to see.

Mike Howard

you seem fixated on the idea that I'm somehow preventing your links from appearing. This despite me explaining how links work on this site. Feel free to email them to me and I will personally post them here. CC the email since you clearly think I will try and sabotage your efforts.

coreconcepts@shaw.ca

If you don't, I can only assume you are lying about having evidence. I've given you every opportunity and now the ball is in your court.

"I have even acknowledged the value of the high protein diet in helping people to quickly lose weight quickly."
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B.S. - every word you've typed about high protein diets has been negative. You're only comment relating to its effectiveness in weight loss was the assertion that people on high protein diets regain the weight.

"You however have been unwilling to even explore any of the positive aspects of macrobiotic or vegetarian diets."
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Also bullsh*t. I've said on at least a few occassions that vegetarian diets are also effective.

"Keep in mind that what might be a good diet for one, might not be a good diet for another. Clearly, as a 110 pound woman my dietary needs are going to be different from your dietary needs."
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Never once argued this.

"I do think that it is ironic that you accuse me of being alarmist when you seem to think that people are going to start starving themselves to death simply because of what GP says, does or eats."
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You seem intent on creating straw man arguments and misconstrue what I've said. I think GP has been giving some bad advice over the years and people DO care what she does - despite what you might think.

"As for your dislike of this particular actress-- read your own article.... Clearly you have had an axe to grind for a few year s (as is indicated by your opening line). Gee-- you refer to her as Heliophobe--- that's not nice. That's not objective."
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Again, please point me in the direction where I've said I don't like Gwyneth Paltrow. Again (and for the last time) I have issues with the questionable dietary advice she feels at liberty to discuss with the world. Oh, and read the GOOP article where she states in as many words that she was afraid of sun exposure. Objectivity has nothing to do with it - I was stating a fact that was straight from the horses mouth. If you think its "not nice" so be it. I'm not worried about offending your sensibilities.

"I do not think that continuing this discussion is going to be productive. Clearly we have different perspectives in regards to this issue. I think that you are unscientific and biased and you think that I am unscientific and biased-- this will not change."
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I'm not trying to change your perspective - I've said many times I'm happy you've found something that works. The issue has been you making spurrious, unsubstantiated and generalized statements - statements that you outright REFUSE to back up. I have provided evidence for my counter claims (none of which you've read).

"I am sorry that I did not like your article-- Because of my circumstances, I have done considerable research on this topic, and so like to discuss it. I do prefer a balanced vegetable based diet-- As I said again-- it is more about HOW a diet is executed than about the diet itself."
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That's fair - I'm sure I speak for every writer on diet blog when I say that other opinions are great. If you think I was harsh than that's fair. But making unsubstantiated proclamations about diet will get a challenge from me.

PKWELLNESS

I'm actually quite a fan of GOOP, and while I cannot say that I fully support every diet or cleanse GP explores, I do like the fact that she is searching and trying to be health conscious. She's not an expert, she fully admits that, but she introduces people to new ways of looking at their health. Even if she is misinformed, she's at least getting people to look at themselves.

I also take issue with your critique of the macrobiotic diet, which was originally based on the diet that has sustained poor fisherman and farmers in Asia for years. You really don't need a huge variety of foods to get the daily nutrients that you require. I'm not a 100% fan of it, but the basic principles behind it are straightforward and as is the diet regimen.

mark

Wow Mike...you get a lot of nutjobs posting on your site, don't you?

Anonymouse

So-- People who disagree or who attempt to pose an alternate perspective are automatically nut jobs? I simply question the science-- This make me educated-- not a nut job.

diane

The biggest risk factor for osteoporosis is genetic. Gwyneth Paltrow is naturally blonde & thin. As a young woman I was equally blonde & thin, as was my mother before me -we both ended up with osteoporosis. I never was on any extreme diets, which you seem to be citing as the cause of this condition. Maybe you should get your M.D. or R.D. before you start making such broad statements about medical isssues.

Mike Howard

I have absolutely no formal education in nutrion and am not a doctor. But if you're more comfortable hearing it from someone with credentials;

"A macrobiotic diet is often lower in protein than a diet that includes dairy foods and meat so if she's (Gwyneth Paltrow) doing a lot of exercise but not getting enough protein, she's not getting enough to build her bones either." Sydney nutritionist Sharon Natoli said.

http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/celebrity/fad-diet-leaves-gwyneth-paltrow-with-brittle-bones/story-e6frfmqi-1225884720682#ixzz0sxh8Sx62

Tammy

Sorry to hear her diet caused such an out come. I actually feel bad for her instead of being so hard on her. I hope in the near future her diet changes and that her health will be better.

grammajudy1

Wow!!! Thank you for this blog. I have in the past tried many of those diets. They only worked for a short while.

Those past practices could be the reason I now have the beginnings of osteoperosis. I never before made the connection. I am glad I read your blog

Dr. Paul Drew

Thank you Mr. Howard for a very informative article. I've been trying to tell my clientele for years that these fad diets are far more harmful than good. I worry that the younger generation will try to follow these poor examples. I saw that Tracy Anderson on the Joy Behar show, and Joy asked her if Gwenyth Paltrow is getting enough diary in her system, and Tracy said that she drinks a lot of milk, but she looked very nervous in her answer. I was even more shocked that she was on the show as an expert! She was trying to plug her "Baby food" diet which is exactly what got Ms. Paltrow in trouble in the first place. As for her being a trainer, I have been commenting for years that Gwenyth Paltrow needs to improve her posture! I have her listed as one of my worst posture celebs in my book "Red Carpet Posture". I can't see why any trainer wouldn't address that issue with her. And I have a child on the way, and I promise you that I won't name it after a fruit. Thanks again for a great article
Dr. Paul Drew

Anonymouse

Really? You think that this is a good article-- despite the underlying assumptions that diet is what is causing GP's bone density issues? You guys feel comfortable jumping to this sort of conclusion. You then criticise her posture? You actually have a list? Is this what people do as Drs these days???

As a doctor you should know that bone density issues are common for woman, even women in their mid-to-late thirties. Why blame it all on diet?

Mike Howard

Anonymouse - I respect your opinion as well.

I'll go back to the genetics issue once again - Are you suggesting that her dietary and lifestyle habits AREN'T condicive to promoting the risk factors for bone density issues?

Let's say for arguments sake that GP got a crappy hand in the genes department. OK she's tall and thin and pale - all genetic. But wouldn't we have heard by now if Blythe Danner had brittle bones? She's well into her 60's.

Anonymouse

How do you know that she does't? Not everyone is up front about their health complaints. Indeed, if you knew who I was-- I would never put the fact that I have osteoporosis and am only 37 out in public (and that I have had this for over 10 years). Indeed, I think that lots of women in their 30s suffer from bone density issues and either do not know that they have the condition or consider it to be a private matter. Why assume that someone does not have bone density problems (or any other health condition for that matter) simply because he/she does not talk about it? Also, why assume that GP does not have some underlying condition that causes bone loss above and beyond that fact that she is automatically in a high risk category anyway??? Digestive problems, hyperparathyroid these both cause bone density issues. You have no idea what is in GP's medical file and so why make assumptions.

Also, to be both fair and truthful, I guess I am so angry about this article because I feel that in judging GP so harshly-- I am also being judged. Sorry--but I am as much a human as anyone else.

What I object to is that this article jumps to a conclusion based on pure assumption (assumption that is clearly fueled by a prior distaste for the individual in question), that the assumption and the conclusion are automatically accepted as fact, and that these pseudofacts are then used to make snarkish and negative remarks.

Mike Howard

Thanks a lot for your comments Dr. Drew! I will have to check out your book sometime - posture is a huge interest of mine and a major part of my training philosophy.

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