The Atkins Diet helps dieters lose weight by strictly limiting the amount of carbohydrates consumed each day. By eliminating carbohydrates, specifically sugar, as a source of energy, the body must burn its stores of fat to accomplish daily tasks. In the first and most restrictive phase of the diet, only 20 g of carbohydrates are permitted each day. This restriction is eased as the diet progresses, but Atkins dieters must keep a vigilant tally of the amount of carbohydrates eaten. A few tips will help dieters stick to the regime long-term.
Eat Regularly
The Atkins Diet is a no-starvation eating plan. Meal skipping is not allowed on the Atkins diet. During all three phases, dieters should eat three regular meals per day. Eating low-carbohydrate snacks such as nuts, cheeses or eggs help stave off hunger between meals.
Portion Control
Though the Atkins diet does not require counting calories of grams of fat, sensible portion control is stressed. Too many calories will slow down weight loss, just as not consuming enough will slow down the metabolism. The Atkins plan recommends women consume 1,500 to 1,800 calories per day. Men should consume between 1,800 to 2,000 calories each day.
Read Every Label
Reading labels is a good habit at all times, but it is especially important for those trying to lose weight. Food labels tally the total carbohydrates in each serving of a particular food. In addition, total carbohydrate counts are broken down into dietary fiber, the good carbohydrates and sugars, which are the refined undesirable carbohydrates.
Limit Caffeine
According to MayoClinic.com, caffeine negatively affects insulin action. In Type 2 diabetics, this action may impact blood sugar levels after meals. Nonetheless, due to its ability to illicit an insulin reaction and affect blood sugar, caffeine should be limited or eliminated from the diet. Caffeine-free coffees, teas and sodas are permitted, and adequate consumption of water is strongly encouraged.
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