3 Ways to Have Dessert on the Atkins Diet

1. It's all About the Glycemic Index

The glycemic index is a way of determining how certain foods high in sugar or carbohydrates affect your body. Foods with a high glycemic index will raise blood sugar quickly, causing a sudden release of insulin. Insulin is the hormone that helps the body store fat, something anyone on a diet does not want. Foods with a low glycemic index do not produce the rush of insulin and help to keep your blood sugar levels stable. Starchy foods that are high in carbohydrates are high on the glycemic index. These foods include white rice, white sugar, white bread, white flour, white potatoes and white pasta. The white foods, with the exception of the white potato, have been refined and processed to make them easier to cook and store, but in the process they've become foods high on the glycemic index. Many desserts use white flour and sugar in the recipes.

2. Does low Carb Sugar Exist?

Low carb sweetener exists only in the form of a sugar substitute. Sugar substitutes are a wonderful aid for those on a low carb diet. Some sugar substitutes are best if used in cold foods or drinks and not heated. Other sugar substitutes can be used for cooking, baking or adding to hot foods. Even natural sugars that haven't been processed or bleached, like dark brown sugar, sugar in the raw or honey have a very high glycemic index. If you must use any sugar, make sure it is not refined and use the smallest amount possible. If you can use a sugar substitute, your glycemic index will remain low and you can enjoy your dessert without guilt.

3. Low Glycemic Goodies you can eat

When you are on a low carb diet like the Atkins diet, you can still have goodies and sweets after the initial Induction Phase of the diet. Most of the recipes call for Splenda, a sugar substitute you can use for cooking or baking. You can buy sugar free desserts that are low in carbs from specialty bakeries or online. Recipes for low glycemic treats, sweets and desserts are also available online for free. These recipes have been tested and used by thousands of people with good success. Some of the recipes include decadent desserts like chocolate layer cakes, cherry cobbler and ice cream. Just because you are on a low carb diet doesn't mean you have to stop eating your favorite sweet treats.