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Kwasniewski’s diet, called by its supporters the optimal diet, was created by the Polish doctor Jan Kwasniewski, a specialist in the field of physical medicine, among others. This diet was developed from the beginning of the 70s. Kwaśniewski wanted to develop a type of nutrition that would counteract the effects of civilization diseases. He concluded that this goal could be achieved by reducing or completely eliminating the presence of carbohydrates in the diet. At the end of the 80s, Kwaśniewski conducted research on the influence of diet on health in two different medical institutions.
What is Kwasniewski’s diet?
The main feature of Kwaśniewski’s diet is the reduction or almost complete elimination of carbohydrate products, replaced with products rich in fat. It is recommended to eat at least three fatty meals a day. According to Kwasniewski, products such as cold cuts, lard, butter, pork and cheese can be eaten regularly and without restrictions. However, the amount of carbohydrates consumed daily should not exceed 50-70 g, i.e. about two slices of bread.
Kwaśniewski defined the exact proportions according to which we should prepare the meals. They are: 1: 3: 1; during the day, we should therefore consume 60% of fats (Kwaśniewski recommends that they should be animal fats) and 20% of proteins and the same amount of carbohydrates.
The effects of Kwaśniewski’s diet
According to Kwasniewski’s opinion, the effect of following the diet he proposes is weight reduction. Due to the high fat content, the consumed meals induce a strong feeling of fullness, and limiting the consumption of carbohydrates eliminates the reflex of “snacking” between meals. Other expected positive effects relate to the improvement of blood pressure and the overall condition of the body.
The slimming effect of Kwasniewski’s diet has been confirmed in various studies. Studies conducted in 2002-2005 showed that the use of this diet can lead to weight loss in the first two weeks of use.
Products recommended and advised against in Kwasniewski’s diet
The list of products recommended for regular use in Kwasniewski’s diet includes:
- fatty meats, cold cuts, offal,
- canned fish, fatty fish,
- chicken eggs (4 or more a day),
- cheeses (of various types),
- butter, lard, coconut oil, lard,
- milk, cream,
- sunflower seeds, nuts, almonds, dried fruit,
- drinks: tea, coffee, cereal coffee, diluted fruit juices,
- mayonnaise and fatty food additives,
- low-sugar vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, cabbage),
- gooseberry, black currant, blueberry, cranberry (in a small amount).
The list of products that should be avoided while following Kwaśniewski’s diet include:
- sugar, sweets, honey,
- sweetened drinks,
- cakes,
- pudding,
- jam and other fruit preserves,
- fruit and compotes,
- bread and any flour-based products,
- rice, groats,
- legumes,
- potatoes,
- Sun.
Not all diets are healthy and safe for our body. It is recommended that you consult your doctor before starting any diet, even if you do not have any health concerns.
When choosing a diet, never follow the current fashion. Remember that some diets, incl. low in particular nutrients or strongly limiting calories, and mono-diets can be debilitating for the body, carry a risk of eating disorders, and can also increase appetite, contributing to a quick return to the former weight.
Kwasniewski’s diet – for and against
Kwasniewski’s diet evokes various opinions among specialists and is considered controversial. It has both its supporters, including those who use it, and staunch opponents. It is worth mentioning the most important advantages and disadvantages of using this diet.
The advantages of using the Kwasniewski diet include:
- weight reduction,
- mood improvement.
Kwaśniewski’s diet is most often used by people who want to reduce body weight, without necessarily giving up fatty foods. However, it is recommended to engage in sports or exercise regularly while following the diet. For this reason, it is popular among people who practice bodybuilding.
The disadvantages of using the Kwasniewski diet include:
- low levels of minerals such as zinc, calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron,
- vitamin deficiency: B, C, E and fiber,
- the risk of causing diseases such as: arterial blockages, hypercholesterolaemia, atherosclerosis, and in the long term also a heart attack,
- increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
For this reason, it is not recommended to use the Kwasniewski diet in the case of pregnant women and young mothers who are breastfeeding.
It should also be mentioned that the Polish Academy of Sciences found Kwasniewski’s diet harmful to health. In the explanatory memorandum issued in 1999, it is noted that research programs devoted to this diet have shown effects opposite to those intended by its author.