ATKINS NUTRITIONAL APPROACH
The late Dr. Atkins approached weight loss from a carbohydrate rather
than a calorie viewpoint. More and more people have a metabolic disturbance
that he believes is not caused by fat, but rather with the carbohydrates
we eat. The basic premise of the diet is the restriction of the intake
of carbohydrates. This includes foods with sugar, bread, cereal, some
starchy vegetables and pasta.
Reducing carbohydrates consumption significantly aids the weight loss
process in two ways. First of all, the main source of energy for our bodies
is carbohydrates. If our body contains fewer carbs, it must look elsewhere
for the next available source of energy, which is stored body fat. Therefore,
reducing carbs forces the body to burn stored body fat (this process is
called Ketosis). Secondly, carbs stimulate the creation of insulin. Since
insulin is what converts excess carbs to fat, fewer carbs in the body
will result in less insulin and therefore creation of less new fat.
It's a common fallacy that people eat pounds and pounds of sausage and
bacon on the Atkins diet, and that it is ok to do so. Actually, Dr. Atkins
advocates eating cured meats sparingly, as they contain hidden carbohydrates.
Certainly you can eat sausage and bacon on this plan, but it was not Dr.
Atkins intent for it to be consumed a pound at a time! There are absolutely
cautions to take for anyone starting this diet who hasn't been totally
up to speed with their medical records. This plan can be a disaster for
an undiagnosed diabetic, who can go into insulin shock and become instantly
disoriented. If you plan to try this diet and haven't had a recent physical
exam, please do so for your own good!
Pros
Rapid weight loss with very large portion sizes. Can eat high-protein
foods.
Cons
Can be taken to extremes, which makes it somewhat controversial. Limited
variety of foods (no breads or pastas).
The Bottom Line
When not taken to extremes, the Atkins plan can be an extremely effective
weight-loss plan. This plan is not recommended for certain medical conditions,
such as Diabetes.
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