Atkins Diet Plan

The Atkins Diet Plan is based on low-carbohydrate consumption. It works to stabilize blood sugar, lower cholesterol and address other obesity-related medical conditions.

Weight loss is enabled without deprivation and many proponents of the approach attribute their success to being able to eat satisfying foods which are available on the Atkins plan.

Studies show that Atkins dieters can expect to lose six to 20 pounds in their first two weeks.

HOW IT WORKS

The plan is divided into four phases. Phase 1 sets the stage and lasts a minimum of 14 days during which your body will switch to burning primarily fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. This is the most restrictive phase where carbs are concerned and you are able to gradually add some back over the next three phases.

The Atkins Diet Plan proclaims the key to lasting weight loss is keeping track of carbs, not calories. White flour and sugar are off-limits as they are believed to be a major cause of obesity.

This approach works for people who need to control carbohydrate consumption, bread and pasta addicts, and thus burn fat instead. Atkins feels this diet is ideal for those who carry their weight around their middle, those who feel sleepy shortly after eating, dieters who are always hungry, people who have hypertension and those who are insulin-resistant.

By following this plan you can avoid the roller coaster ride of sugar highs and lows that can lead to cravings. Thus appetites are more under control and people tend to find they are less obsessed with food.

WHAT YOU’LL EAT

The Atkins plan is quite generous in the range and type of food eaten. Carbohydrates in all forms are restricted which means many grains and fruits are out of bounds. However, meats, vegetables, cheeses and other dairy products are all available food choices.

BOTTOM LINE

There has been a tremendous amount of criticism of this plan since it’s inception thirty years ago. Yet, most likely we all know someone who has survived and thrived because of it. Personally, I am suspicious of any plan that allows more or less unrestricted access to fats of all kinds yet curtails consumption of fruit and whole grains.

Read the details carefully and talk to your health care provider before jumping into this one.

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