Atkins

Atkins Review:

Background

Created by Dr. Robert Atkins over a decade ago, the Atkins diet is the most popular low-carb, high-protein diet in the market, and, many will argue, the only true one.

What to Eat

The program is divided into three phases, in which you are allowed different amounts of carbohydrates. During the first two weeks you are into the Induction phase, in which you cannot exceed 20 grams of carbohydrates in any given day. This means giving up all carbs, including fruits and certain vegetables, like corn and carrots. The second phase, known as Ongoing Weight Loss, allows you to eat between 25 and 50 grams of carbs a day (this is individual and based on goals and current weight). During the OWL phase, fruits and nuts are introduced back, although all other carbs are still forbidden. The last phase, Pre-maintenance, allows you to up your carb intake to include whole grains, although the percentages allowed are still so small that you are unlikely to be able to eat more than one serving per day. On the other hand, unlimited amounts of proteins are allowed.

The Good

There are lots of low-carb Atkins products available for sale at health food stores, which may make the absence of grains a lot more bearable. The Atkins diet works, which is why it is still popular after so many years.

The Bad

Constipation, bad breath, dizziness and weakness are all common side effects of the Atkins diet, especially during the Induction phase. If you buy lots of Atkins products, you’ll find that it gets expensive to follow the system.

Exercise

While exercise is encouraged, the truth is that many people following the Atkins diet find it hard to workout because of lack of energy. During the third phase, when carbs are reintroduced to the diet, exercise is more likely.

Costs

$15 or less for the book.