Atkins Diet Menu Restrictions

The Atkins diet is based on foods with a low-carbohydrate content to promote weight and fat loss. The consumption of non-starchy vegetables, protein from fish, chicken, turkey, meat, eggs and cheese, and fats from butter, bacon, salad dressings, olive oil, avocado and coconut oil is encouraged. It is important to consider the many food restrictions when planning an Atkins menu.

Starchy Vegetables

Starchy vegetables have a high carbohydrate content and these foods are restricted in the first phases of the Atkins diet. Potatoes, french fries, sweet potatoes, carrots, peas, corn and winter squash are not allowed on the induction and ongoing weight loss phase of the Atkins diet.

Grains

Grains usually constitute the main source of carbohydrate in the American diet and these foods need to be completely eliminated from your diet if you are following the Atkins eating plan. Bread, rice, barley, pasta, crackers, breakfast cereals, oatmeal, muffins, granola bars and any food made with flour should be eliminated from your diet.

Legumes

Beans and lentils are restricted on the Atkins diet because of their high carbohydrate content. Avoid adding them to your soup or salad and stay away from hummus. Instead, opt for animal sources of protein or if you are vegetarian, choose tofu, seitan, tempeh and other soy-based low-carb protein alternatives.

Milk and Yogurt

Dairy products, with the exception of cheese, contain carbohydrate under the form of lactose. Most yogurts and flavored milk also contain extra carbohydrates from the added sugar they contain. Milk and yogurt are restricted on the Atkins diet, at least during the active weight loss phases.

Sugar

Sugar constitutes one the crucial food restriction for the Atkins diet to be successful in helping you lose weight and curb your cravings for sweets. Avoid any desserts, sweets and candies and do not add any sweetener to your foods, whether it is honey, maple syrup, molasses, sugar or brown sugar.

Nuts and Nut Butter

The Atkins diet restricts the consumption of nuts and nut butter during the first induction phase, but allows the reintroduction of these foods back into your diet if they do not trigger cravings or interfere with your weight loss.

Fruits

Fruits are a significant source of carbohydrate and therefore need to be restricted, at least for the first phases of the Atkins. Some Atkins dieters may be able to reintroduce fruits into their diet during the second or third phase, but most people can only eat berries, cherries, honeydew melon or cantaloupe. Other fruits need to be restricted for life for most Atkins dieters.