Atkins Diet

Dr. Robert Atkins first wrote about the Atkins diet in the 1970s, in his book The New Diet Revolution. The Atkins diet claims that you can eat any protein and fat, but little or no carbohydrates, and still become thin. Over recent years, the Atkins diet plan has become one of the most popular diet plans - with Time Magazine naming it "The most popular diet program".

The diet has continued to remain at the center of controversy, mainly due to possible ill affects on health. The diet has absolutely no restriction on different kinds of fats, and seems difficult to sustain over the long term.

However there is no doubt the diet will case short-term weight loss - but at what cost?

Atkins Diet Background

The main component of the Atkins diet is a severe restriction of carbohydrate intake. This includes foods with sugar, bread, cereal, some starchy vegetables and pasta.

Weight loss on the Atkins diet is based on the process of Ketosis:

First, the main source of energy for our bodies is carbohydrates. When we have fewer carbs in our body, it must look elsewhere for another source of energy. Next in line is stored body fat. So reducing carbs forces the body to burn fat. This process is called Ketosis. Secondly, carbs stimulate the creation of insulin. Insulin is what converts excess carbs to fat. So when you have less carbs you have less insulin and therefore create less new fat.

Eat all you want?
There is no restriction on portion size, and the Atkins dieter can eat a whole range of low-carb foods including chicken, steak, shellfish, pork chops, eggs, duck, turkey - any kind of meat, wonderful salads, cheeses, fatty salad dressings, some nuts, and of course the Atkins bars and shakes.

High Fat - High Protein

One of the most controversial issues with Atkins is that it is a high-fat diet. Most government health agencies recommend no more than 30% fat in our diet - yet with Atkins you can easily consume more fat than this. Atkins is not just low carb it is very low carb. It is difficult to see how a person could maintain healthy muscle mass on a diet such as this.

In addition to this, one must question how healthy the process of Ketosis is. In the short term it may have the desired effect - but in the long term? Some suggest that certain organs may be overworked to sustain the process of Ketosis.

If you are thinking of beginning this diet, we strongly encourage you to research and read as much as possible before beginning the diet and consult with your health professional.