The Low-Carb Craze: Researchers estimate about 11 percent of people in the United States follow a reduced-carbohydrate diet. That translates to about 24 million Americans. Recent research is supporting this growing trend. Two new studies published in the May 2004 issue of Annals of Internal Medicine show low-carb dieters lose more weight and have better cholesterol levels than those who only cut calories. One study followed 120 overweight people for six months and found participants on low-carb diets lost an average of 26 pounds, compared to an average of 14 pounds lost by those on low-fat diets. The second study followed 132 obese adults for 12 months. Low-carb dieters in that study had lower triglyceride levels than those on low-fat diets. High levels of triglycerides, or fat in the blood, are associated with an increased risk of heart disease.

Cooking The Low-Carb Way: Many restaurants around the country are now catering to these dieters by offering low-carb menu items. But what if you could prepare your own low-carb meals that taste just as good? Executive chef Marc Gilberti from Ochsner Clinic's Elmwood Fitness Center in New Orleans instructs students on how to cook with fewer carbs. Gilberti says low-carb cooking may require a little more creativity in the kitchen, but it's easy if you follow his advice. He says the first step is to pick the main ingredients. Lean meats, non-starchy vegetables, beans and cheeses are great choices. Gilberti says you can save time by preparing some of the seasonings ahead of time. He says, "On a rainy day, chop a bunch of onion, bell peppers and celery. Freeze them. Ziploc them and freeze them. They'll last forever in the freezer." He also says don't forget spices. They enhance taste, and some can even boost your metabolism. Oils, garlic and wine also add flavor to the food, so Gilberti does not recommend skimping on those. Finally, he says to cook your favorite foods but make modifications.

Here's a great alternative if you're craving tacos.

Mexican-style Lettuce Wraps

Ingredients:
1 lb. extra-lean ground beef (or substitute chicken for beef)
1 Tbsp. taco seasoning
1 large head iceberg lettuce
4 Tbsp. salsa
4 Tbsp. shredded cheddar cheese
1 Tbsp. sour cream
Avocado (optional)

Directions:
In a medium skillet, brown ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed. Add taco seasoning and mix thoroughly. Fill lettuce leaves with ground beef, salsa, cheddar cheese and sour cream. Roll lettuce leaves fajita style.

Nutrition facts:
Protein: 28 grams
Carbs: 2 grams
Fat: 8.5 grams

For other medical research, visit Ivanhoe Broadcast News on the Internet at www.ivanhoe.com.