The Atkins Diet plan restricts carbohydrates to help people lose weight. During the initial phase of the diet, called induction, dieters eat only 15 to 20 carbs per day. Subsequent phases allow the dieter to add 5 grams of carbs per day (each week) cutting back once weight loss stops. In general Atkins dieters eat fewer than 50 carbs per day, although that varies from person to person. A piece of bread has 12 to 15 grams of carbohydrate, so most Atkins followers don't want to spend on a single slice.
Lettuce
Lettuce is a great choice as a bread substitute. Choose large leaves of lettuce and slather it with any condiments you're using. Add the meat and/or cheese and roll it up, similar to a sandwich wrap.This substitute is fine for any of the Atkins phases.
Atkins Bread
Atkins makes a line of foods including shakes and bars and a baking mix that is suitable for baking bread and pancakes. It is not suitable for use during the induction phase, but can be useful after that two-week phase.
Low Carb Breads
Manufacturers have jumped on the low-carb bandwagon and are producing low-carb breads. Ezekiel Bread has healthy grains and high fiber, and has about 14 grams of carbohydrate. Rudy's Organic Bakery Right Choice has only about 5 net carbs. Many light breads, such as Wonder Light, have carb counts in the 6 or 8 range which is an acceptable range even for induction.
Portobello Mushrooms
Some people enjoy using large portobello mushrooms in place of a hamburger bun. Lightly grill a pair of these for extra flavor. Portobello mushroom caps are also a great substitute for pizza dough.
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