It may sound like the name of a scientific experiment. In reality, the Schwarzbein Principle is another variation of a low-carb, high-protein diet. However, more than weight loss Dr. Schwarzbein’s plan strives to stop accelerated aging and prevent disease.
Drawing from her experience as an endocrinologist, Dr. Diana Schwarzbein has pieced together a nutritional approach that controls insulin levels by regulating the intake of carbohydrates. The recommendations of her five-prong plan run the gamut from adopting different nutritional guidelines to reducing stress.
The byproduct of these efforts is a reduced risk of degenerative diseases. More than just a weight-loss approach, Dr. Schwarzbein emphasizes the healing values of following a diet low in carbohydrates. According to Dr. Schwarzbein and all the other proponents of low-carb diets, carbs cause the blood sugar to spike. When insulin levels remain at high levels, the body becomes resistant to insulin, which is responsible for converting glucose to energy. This, in turn, causes the glucose to turn to fat, contributing to obesity.
The diet itself is high in protein and fats while low in carbohydrates, which means you’ll eat plenty of steak, butter, chicken, cream and other goodies. However, you’ll eliminate breads, pastas, cereals and other processed foods that cause insulin levels to rise.
In Step 1 of the Schwarzbein Principle, you’re encouraged to: never skip a meal again, cut out unhealthy carbs, eat balanced meals, center your meals around a protein, add some healthy fats, enjoy real carbohydrates, consume nonstarchy vegetables, snack, eat solid food and drink plenty of water.
Step 2 focuses on stress management. Step 3 calls for the elimination of nicotine, alcohol, refined sugars, artificial sweeteners, narcotics, MSG, preservatives and additives, fake fats, caffeine and certain prescription drugs. With Step 4, you’ll implement an exercise program with flexibility, resistance and cardiovascular training. Lastly, Step 5 concentrates on hormone replacement therapy.
