High-protein, low-carbohydrate diets come in many forms. Doctors prescribe some to help manage conditions like diabetes, while others may put you at risk for nutrient deficiencies. Before cutting carbs, it's worth taking a close look at what the plan actually involves and whether it supports your long-term health, rather than serving as a quick fix for weight loss. Here are six things to consider first.

1. Carbohydrates do not make you fat.

Carbohydrates are a macronutrient and the body's primary energy source, and eating them doesn't directly cause weight gain. That said, diets high in refined carbohydrates — think sugar, white flour, and processed grains — tend to be high in calories. Weight gain comes down to oversized portions and excess calories, not carbohydrates themselves.

2. High protein diets may stress the kidneys.

When kidneys break down protein, the byproducts can become harmful if they build up too much in the bloodstream. Still, a two-year study from the Indiana University School of Medicine found no evidence of kidney damage in healthy obese participants following a high-protein, low-carb diet compared with those on a standard low-fat diet. The researchers noted, however, that participants had no pre-existing kidney disease or other illness going in. Anyone with reduced kidney function should avoid high-protein diets.

3. High protein diets can be high in saturated fat.

Relying on animal products to boost protein intake can also raise your saturated fat intake. The American Heart Association recommends keeping saturated fat under 7% of total daily calories to lower heart disease risk. To balance things out, include plant-based protein sources like beans, nuts, and seeds, which also deliver healthy fats, fiber, and key vitamins and minerals.

4. High protein diets may affect bone health.

Research shows that high-protein diets — particularly those heavy in meat — can raise acid levels in the body. To help neutralize that acid, the body pulls calcium from bones, weakening them over time. This is especially concerning for postmenopausal women, who often already face faster bone loss due to declining estrogen levels.

5. Low carbohydrate diets can be low in micronutrients.

Cutting carbs to the point of reducing or eliminating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains raises your risk of nutrient deficiencies. These foods supply essential vitamins and minerals, along with unique phytonutrients you can't get anywhere else — supplements included.

6. Low carbohydrate diets can be low in fiber.

Fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains are your best sources of fiber, which supports digestive health, helps lower blood cholesterol, and aids in blood sugar control. Cutting these foods out means missing out on those benefits, and it's nearly impossible to hit the recommended 25 grams of fiber a day without them.

Sources

• The Lancet - Dietary carbohydrate intake and mortality: a prospective cohort study and meta-analysis
• American Journal of Cardiology - Metabolic Effects of High-Protein, Low-Carbohydrate Diets

Lori Rice, M.S., is a nutritional scientist and author with a passion for healthy cooking, exercise physiology, and food photography.