I'm contemplating going on a low carb, high protein diet. I have about 12 pounds I want to lose. Are these diets healthy? I'd never do something as radical as Atkins and since I'm a vegetarian, I won't be eating meat for the protein. I'd eat soy based products, but I'm not sure how low in carbs they will be, but I do know they're high in protein. Some people say a high carb, low protein is best, and others say an equal balance of carbs, protein, and fats is best. What do you all think? Thanks in advance for your advise.

honestly I would eat a balanced diet, but eat less of everything.
theres is a food pyramid for a reason, what is the healthiest for a person to consume. You should get 6 or so servings of grains (carbs) and less than 3 servings of meats (protein)
so if u eat less carbs and more meats, then you're throwing your whole system off. Also, protein contains cholesterol, which can't be good for you.
I would stay away from refined white breads, or white rice, things like that. but multigrains/rye/wheats are good for you. And honestly vegetables and fruits are way better for you, and help you loose weight too.

well: yes Gail they are very healthy"Diets" as where
yourself can use! refer http://www.healthy.dietplans.com

http://choosediet.blogspot.com/

They all have some good points and not so good. Most diets are setting you up to fail. Why? Because you have a hard time sticking to them. Read this for what I think is a better solution

well, protein helps build muscle and burn fat. also when you eat more protein and less carbs, you can go longer between meals. proteins help keep you fuller longer. low carb high protein diets are a quick way to lose weight but after you get off of the diet, you'll put the weight on again if you dont watch what you eat. as far as being a 'healthy method', low carb, high protein diets arent really that healthy for you if you stay on them for a long period of time. but since you dont eat meat, you shouldnt have a problem. in your case, it should be fairly healthy. good luck and make sure you exercise as well. it'll help you lose more weight.

I would just cut out dairy products because they are probably the most calorie dense food you eat.Eat only whole grains,drink only water(no juice either),eat every 2-3 hours,and just eat more fruits and veggies because they are very low in calories.

Diet that are low in carbs tend not to be healthy.
Your brain is only powered on carbohydrates. Carbohydrates include fiber, which protects against colon cancer and can reduce the cholesterol in your blood stream. It's hard to say that one type of food is "bad" (unless it's brownies...) while others are "good".
Eat in balance. Make your carbohydrate choices ones that are high in fiber and are paired with protein. Keep your dairy products low in fat... eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Above all... count your calories. Keep them between 1200 and 1600 depending on your activity level. Some foods are deceptively high in calories, so count everything, and you will know where to tweak your diet.