The Atkins Diet, created by Dr. Robert Atkins in 1972, is a low-carbohydrate, high-protein weight loss plan that claims to improve certain health conditions. After Dr. Atkins' death in 2003, it has undergone several revisions, but the main tenets remain: Carbohydrates are thought to cause health issues like weight gain, diabetes and heart disease and should be limited in a healthy diet. The diet promotes counting the carbohydrates found in grains, fruits and vegetables and consuming plenty of lean protein sources, taking care to avoid saturated and trans fat.
Gas
Atkins is promoted to address and improve gastrointestinal issues. Its proponents say conditions such as heartburn, gallstones, gas and bloating can be reduced by restricting carbohydrate consumption, as with the Atkins Diet. According to the Mayo Clinic, no current research supports the validity of that claim. Further research into the gas-eliminating benefits of low-carbohydrate, high protein diets is necessary.
Sugar Alcohols
As carbohydrates are restricted on the Atkins Diet, some manufactured low-carbohydrate food items have become available. These items, including snack bars and other convenience items, contain sugar alcohols as sweeteners, replacing white sugar. Since the body doesn't recognize sugar alcohols, it can't digest them. As a result, no calories are obtained; however, they may cause gas and abdominal distress.
Legumes
Since they have a low glycemic index, foods like beans and peas are acceptable forms of protein in the maintenance phases of the Atkins Diet. The glycemic index of a food item is the rate at which it causes blood sugar to rise after consumption. A low glycemic index indicates a slow rise, in comparison to a glucose peak and then crash, associated with high glycemic index foods. Legumes are known as gas-producing foods and can cause gastric upset, however they are a good source of fiber and protein and a valuable part of a healthy diet. To continue to enjoy legumes on the Atkins Diet, consider a gas-reducing product, such as Beano or Gas-X.
(Every Diet, reference 4)
Dairy
Dairy products, especially cheese, are allowed on the Atkins Diet. For some people, dairy products can be a source of gastrointestinal upset. Lactose intolerance can be a culprit; some people have difficulty digesting the milk sugar, lactose, and it can result in gas, bloating and diarrhea. Tablets and milk containing the added enzyme lactase can help lactose intolerant individuals to digest milk products. Also, yogurt is a good dairy source that is more easily digested by lactose intolerant individuals than foods like milk or ice cream.
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