INDIANAPOLIS -- There are a lot of fad diets out there, but the low carbohydrate, high protein diet is one of the most popular ways to lose weight these days.

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Experts De-Bunk Low-Carb Method

But many experts believe the diet may be putting individual's health at risk, Staying Healthy's Stacia Matthews reported.

"Any time you go on a fad diet it's unlikely you're going to keep the weight off," Dr. Catherine Bain said.

But temporary weight loss is only one concern doctors have about low-carb diets. Fiber deficiency is worse than previously thought.

"We need all the foods God made because it's good for us," dietician Margie Bryan said.

The Food and Nutrition Board recommends 38 grams of fiber a day for men, and 25 grams for women. Most people only get half that and the 30 million people on low- carb diets get even less, Matthews reported.

Experts suggest trying carbohydrate food loaded with fiber.

"(Eat) whole grains, brown rice, brown pasta, the vegetables, fruits, raw and in their fresh state, prepared in steam or baked and not fried. Then you're going to be getting a lot more complex carbs and a lot more fiber which the body needs," Bryan said.

Experts say fiber carbohydrates help reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer, plus, it maintains sugar levels and regularity. Ironically, it also helps to lose weight.

"It's a very good way to combat obesity and diabetes by increasing what's called complex carbohydrates in the diet," Bryan said.

Experts say the most popular diets are often the least effective. The diet industry is big business. American's spend $33 billion a year on supplements and treatments, yet we're fatter than ever before, Matthews reported.

Terry Mee got sick on a low carbohydrate diet.

"The doctor told me that the Atkins Diet was nothing more than putting your body into a diabetic state which actually is not that healthy," Mee said.

Mee now eats a more balanced diet combined with regular exercise, the way doctors say is the best way to shed unwanted pounds and keep them off.