The Atkins Diet is the namesake eating plan created by Dr. Robert C. Atkins. This diet gained popularity during the "low-carb" revolution, when carbohydrates were vilified as the cause of weight gain. Everyone from celebrities to some physicians were signing the praises of this diet, as the results were dramatic; people who had struggled for years with weight loss were finally shedding pounds by adhering to this eating plan. Dr. Atkins theorized that insulin, a hormone created by the body to regulate blood sugar, was the main reason why people gained weight, and that carbohydrates created the largest insulin release in the body. Therefore, when people cut out carbs, they limited the insulin response and did not gain weight. There is very little, if any, scientific research to support these claims, and Dr. Atkins' theory has been discredited by virtually every well-respected medical and nutrition association in the United States. Nevertheless, Atkins made billions of dollars by appealing to Americans insecurity about weight, pushing his supplements and products. While many people did in fact lose weight, others suffered terrible side effects from eliminating carbohydrates, the body's most necessary and efficient source of fuel, from their diets.
What to Look for
Atkins diet foods include bars, granola and shakes, while the Atkins website (www.atkins.com) contains many recipes for dishes that are consistent with the no to low carb philosophy. People who adhere to this diet will certainly have no trouble finding things to eat that are Atkins approved. However, because of the nutrient distribution and strict guidelines for following this diet, their biggest challenge, as with most diets, is sticking with it.
Common Pitfalls
The Atkins diet has helped millions of people lose weight quickly, but at what price? Many of the Atkins products contain unnatural ingredients, and no carbohydrates, which are the body's most readily available source of energy. In addition, the side effects of following this diet range from constipation to risk of birth defects in pregnant women, and in a few cases, death. Instead of looking to "quick fix" diets to lose weight, look to health and fitness professionals, such as registered dieticians, exercise physiologists and your doctor to help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Member Comments