Insulin dysfunction may be the reason that so many people gain weight and fail to lose it, no matter what diets they try. As Dr. Tran Tien, co-founder of the Ideal Protein weight loss program, explains, “A diet grossly disproportionate in its share of saturated fats and sugars, such as in breads, cereals, muffins, cakes, pastries, pasta, pizza, rice, and corn — very much like the North American diet — causes the pancreas to produce an overabundance of insulin, which stays in the system and puts the blood sugar level in a negative balance.” This overabundance of insulin can cause weight gain.

An overproduction of insulin may lead to hypoglycemia, which in turn may induce constant sugar cravings. One of insulin’s primary functions is to regulate blood sugar levels. But this hormone also facilitates the transport of fat (triglycerides) into the fat cells. Even worse, it “locks” the fat into the fat cell, preventing it from being used as a source of energy. Now, because the blood sugar has dropped — and we can’t access the fat as a fuel source — it creates sugar cravings, leading to weight gain, and the vicious cycle begins again.

The body gets energy from three reserves: glycogen (carbohydrates), protein and fats. When simple and complex carbohydrate reserves are depleted, the body turns to protein and fat reserves for energy. But as long as sugar is being consumed, the body can’t burn fat. Therefore, consuming too many simple and complex carbohydrates can prevent weight loss.

The Ideal Protein protocol restricts sugars (simple and complex) until 100 percent of a weight loss goal is achieved. It results in rapid fat loss while sparing the lean body mass (which includes the heart). In use for more than 25 years by 7 million people in Europe and Canada, it made its debut in the United States five years ago. Dr. Jersey Wulster of the Jersey Wellness Center in Denville offers the protocol, which provides a source of complete protein, individual weekly coaching, and daily emails.

For more information on the Jersey Wellness Center, visit Drjersey.com.