Atkins Diet

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. Thus, 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, I strongly encourage you to consult with your health professional.


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