The No-amylose Diet

The concept of the no-amylose diet is to eliminate foods that contain a high concentration of amylose, one of the building blocks of starch. Basically, going amylose-free means shunning wheat and other cereal grains because they contain high amounts of this molecule. However, lean meats, many vegetables and most fruits are allowed, making it easy to choose a wide variety of foods and still lose weight.

Background

; 2001'). Dr. Shoemaker’s approach differs from conventional view in that he regards obesity, insulin resistance and inflammatory disorders, for example, as symptoms rather than diagnoses.

Theory

; 2001'). However, Shoemaker contends that this method is ineffective because the consumption of foods that are high in amylose triggers sudden spikes in blood sugar levels and promotes resistance to both insulin and leptin.

Applications

The ideal candidate for the no-amylose diet is anyone suffering from or at risk for obesity and insulin-resistant diabetes, although Shoemaker also notes that reducing the risk of either will also decrease the risk of developing other diseases.

Acceptable Foods

With the exception of bananas, Shoemaker says that all fruits are low in amylose. Lean meats are permitted, as are many vegetables. In terms of the latter, the general rule of thumb is to adhere to varieties that grow above ground, especially green vegetables. In addition, foods low in amylose typically rank higher in the glycemic index, or GI, a measurement of how fast carbohydrates are broken down into glucose by the body.

Foods to Avoid

The no-amylose diet advocates the avoidance of all sugars and grains with the exception of certain varieties of “waxy” corn.