The Atkins Diet made its debut in the 1972 with the release of, "Dr. Atkins' Diet Revolution," by Dr. Robert Atkins. His weight-loss methods went against the grain of the traditional calorie-counting, low-fat diet many people followed. He believed carbohydrates were your enemy, and reducing your intake could expedite weight loss. Using this method involves progressing through four phases, the first of which is Induction.
The Induction Phase
The Induction phase helps you jump-start your weight loss. Atkins.com states you can lose up to 15 lbs. in the first two weeks, the average time you spend in this phase. Provided you lose this amount of weight, it is possible to average a weight loss of 7 1/2 lbs. per week. What catches many dieters' eyes is the "15 lbs." rather than the "up to." Several variables can affect how much weight you lose during Induction, including your commitment to the plan and the amount of weight you need to lose.
Your Commitment
The purpose of Induction is to change the fuel your body burns for energy. Instead of burning carbohydrates, it begins burning fat. Induction is the beginning of this process, allowing you to consume a maximum of 20 g of net carbs each day. Atkins.com explains some people lose weight quickly in this phase, while others lose it slowly. Your commitment can make the difference. Struggling with carb cravings and lack of commitment interferes with your success, causing you to remain in the Induction phase longer than the typical two weeks.
Your Weight Loss
If after two weeks you have only lost 2 lbs., your body may not be completely burning fat for energy. Although two weeks is the average time frame for Induction, you can spend six months or more, if necessary. By the same token, having more weight to lose is a common incentive to remain in Induction longer, as your weight tends to come off more quickly. How much weight you lose will depend on your individual circumstances.
Moving On
It is important to move on to the second phase of Atkins as soon as possible so you determine how many carbs you can consume and still lose, or maintain, the weight you are at. If you are within 15 lbs. of your goal weight, or find yourself bored with the food choices on the Induction phase, move forward. If you have more than 30 lbs. to lose, remain in this phase. Do not compare yourself to another person going through this phase simultaneously. Everyone is different when it comes to how much and how fast they lose weight.
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