The Atkins diet has been a meal plan famous for its low-carb, high-protein content. The diet has been known to allow people to lose weight quickly by changing dieting to very low carbohydrate content. Foods allowed in the Atkins diet plan are high in protein, however. Atkins dieters enjoy meats, poultry, fish and vegetables, but they are limited when it comes to starches such as potatoes, breads and pastas.
Beef and Pork
Atkins is one of the only diets that allows large portions of meat and pork. Though most diet plans limit the amount of fat intake, Atkins actually allows for burgers, steak and pork products such as bacon. These foods are allowed during the induction phase--the beginning days of the Atkins diet that lasts for two weeks. When eating meat, it's important to remember to remove carbs from the meal. For instance, when eating a hamburger, remove the breading when following the Atkins diet.
Dairy
Dairy products are promoted in the Atkins diet. Dieters who follow Atkins are allowed to eat foods such as cheese, milk, yogurt and eggs. Eggs are normally eaten for breakfast as a filling way to start the day. Cheese and milk are also allowed, but these products should be consumed in moderation. Dairy products including eggs are high in fat and cholesterol, which can lead to heart disease. These products are introduced as fuel sources. Because carbohydrates are limited during Atkins, the body is able to use high fats for an energy source.
Vegetables
Although fruits are disallowed during the initial phase of the Atkins diet, vegetables are a part of the diet plan as long as they are not starchy. Starchy vegetables are filled with carbohydrates, and this goes against the Atkins plans. Vegetables allowed include dark green, leafy vegetables including broccoli and spinach. Starchy vegetables that should be avoided are peas, carrots and corn. Some Atkins dieters stick with salads, which contain mostly healthy vegetables approved for the diet plan.
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