As I was browsing the internet I came across this interesting article in the America Heart Association journal- Circulation. Only the abstract is posted:
If you want to view the entire article, click on the link below: http://circ.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/full/104/15/1869

Dietary Protein and Weight Reduction
A Statement for Healthcare Professionals From the Nutrition Committee of the Council on Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Metabolism of the American Heart Association Sachiko T. St. Jeor, RD PhD; Barbara V. Howard, PhD; T. Elaine Prewitt, RD DrPH; Vicki Bovee, RD MS; Terry Bazzarre, PhD; Robert H. Eckel, MD; , for the AHA Nutrition Committee
Abstract
Abstract— High-protein diets have recently been proposed as a "new" strategy for successful weight loss. However, variations of these diets have been popular since the 1960s. High-protein diets typically offer wide latitude in protein food choices, are restrictive in other food choices (mainly carbohydrates), and provide structured eating plans. They also often promote misconceptions about carbohydrates, insulin resistance, ketosis, and fat burning as mechanisms of action for weight loss. Although these diets may not be harmful for most healthy people for a short period of time, there are no long-term scientific studies to support their overall efficacy and safety. These diets are generally associated with higher intakes of total fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol because the protein is provided mainly by animal sources. In high-protein diets, weight loss is initially high due to fluid loss related to reduced carbohydrate intake, overall caloric restriction, and ketosis-induced appetite suppression. Beneficial effects on blood lipids and insulin resistance are due to the weight loss, not to the change in caloric composition. Promoters of high-protein diets promise successful results by encouraging high-protein food choices that are usually restricted in other diets, thus providing initial palatability, an attractive alternative to other weight-reduction diets that have not worked for a variety of reasons for most individuals. High-protein diets are not recommended because they restrict healthful foods that provide essential nutrients and do not provide the variety of foods needed to adequately meet nutritional needs. Individuals who follow these diets are therefore at risk for compromised vitamin and mineral intake, as well as potential cardiac, renal, bone, and liver abnormalities overall.


It is interesting to read that last statement. Based on my current eating habits, and exercise routine, I'm supposed to be on a high-protein diet (according to my Curves Member Guide). But this diet is not meant to last forever. At least while I am actively working out, I should be eating more protein. This article has different tables that describe relations of protein to your diet. The first table lists how much protein you should intake daily, based on your energy intake. It shows that your protien intake should be between 10% and 30% of your total caloric intake. The average diet is 15%. There is another table (#3) that lists 5 different popular diets, and what each diet entails foodwise and in practicality. It's an eye opener if you are considering one of these diets. It makes me wonder about the practicality of other diets not listed too.l