The Basics of the Atkins Diet.
I've invited one of our forum's regular posters to write an article about the diet that saw him lose over 60kg. David Koch (also known as LC_Dave) is a passionate low carber. Here is his basic description of the Atkins Diet.
The Atkins diet has four phases.
Induction (First two weeks) – carbs are limited to 20 grams or less
Ongoing Weight Loss – carbs added slowly back to the diet to a level where you are still losing weight. Ie. 30-40 grams
Pre-Maintenance – This would be when you have only a few kilos left to lose and you are transitioning to Maintenance – carbs are increased, fat is slightly modified.
Maintenance – you have reached your weight loss goal. Carbs are now at a critical level where they are neither making you gain weight, or lose weight.
If you have a lapse, you go back to the Induction level.
Dr. Atkins advises portion control by sticking to three moderate meals per day. If you eat excessively on this diet your weight loss will be slower.
Some Common Myths Exposed:-
1 Atkins causes bad breath – doesn't & never has. I've never known anyone in real life or online to have this reaction.
2. The diet is only Bacon and eggs – wrong. There are plenty of vegetables and some fruit. At higher stages even whole grains can be consumed.
3. Atkins is about unlimited calories – wrong. Dr. Atkins advises to limit yourself to three average size meals a day. If you hungry eat some protein.
4. The weight loss is only water. Well I've lost 61 kilos so far – that's a lot of water! It is wrong also.
5. The diet is temporary fix, and you go back to a regular diet when you finish. Wrong. It is a completely different way of life.
6. The Atkins Diet excludes whole food groups – wrong. It is a Low Carb diet, not a no carb diet. Fruit, vegetables, and dairy are part of the diet. Unlike vegetarian diets, it does not leave out any food group.
7. You do no Exercise on the diet – wrong. There is a chapter in the book called “Exercise it's non-negotiable!”
The important that when doing any changes to your diet to consult your Doctor and get a physical. Also you cannot succeed unless you purchase and read a copy of the book.
If you'd like to learn more about Low Carb eating visit his forum here: AusLowCarb