The Atkins Diet has four phases. The first is the Induction phase, which is your initiation to Atkins. During this phase, your net carbohydrate intake is limited to 20 grams a day. Condiments, candy and certain medications containing sugar -- which are simple carbohydrates -- are not permitted in this phase. The other three phases of the Atkins plan are less restrictive, and you can take medications such as cough syrup without compromising your diet.
Induction Phase
In the Induction phase, your carbohydrates are dramatically restricted and come primarily from vegetables, which are complex carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates come from high-sugar foods, such as candy and baked goods made from white flour. They break down quickly and cause your blood-sugar to spike, giving you a burst of energy followed by fatigue and a craving for more sugar. Fiber-rich carbohydrates such as vegetables help you feel satiated. They stabilize your blood-glucose levels, providing you with energy throughout the day.
Carbs and Sugar in Cough Syrup
Refined sugar and other simple carbs aren't permitted in the Induction phase of the Atkins Diet. Cough syrup -- either prescribed or over-the-counter -- is not permitted in this phase if it contains refined sugar or high-fructose corn syrup. Cough syrup often has alcohol, as well, which is not permitted during the first two weeks of the diet.
Concerns
If you come down with a cold or other illness that causes a severe cough, see your doctor. If she prescribes a cough syrup, tell her that you're in the first phase of the Atkins Diet. She might offer another treatment route or tell you to temporarily go off your diet and take the the cough medicine. Follow your doctor's advice until you are well again and can go back on the diet.
Considerations
If your cough is mild and doesn't require seeing a doctor, you might try an alternative -- and sugar-free -- remedy. Gargling with salt water and drinking ginger tea are two natural cough suppressants. You may be able to take a sugar-free cough syrup while you're in the Induction phase. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist, and read the label of any medicine before you take it.
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