The induction phase of the Atkins Diet--Phase 1--is probably the strictest phase, since it helps you to initiate the beginning weight loss. This phase of the Atkins Diet is heavily weighted to allow all natural meats and animal fats. Carbohydrates and any foods made with carbohydrates are disallowed in this phase of the diet.
Meats
The Atkins Diet's first phase is the induction phase. This phase concentrates heavily on protein and fats--all natural protein--is allowed. This includes red meat, turkey and chicken. The only disallowed meats are manufactured meats that may contain bread crumbs and cured meats, which might contain sugar.
Animal Fats
Animal fats, like butter, are on the list. Lard, because it is made from animal fat, is allowed on the Atkins Diet. Margarines are disallowed because they are made from hydrogenated fats.
Non-Hydrogenated and Non-Trans Fats
Virgin or extra virgin olive oil is allowed in Phase 1. If the fat is refined, pressed, fully or partially hydrogenated or deodorized, refined or bleached, it is not allowed on this diet. Trans fats, like conjugated linoleic acid, are not allowed in the Atkins Diet induction phase.
Salad Vegetables
The only vegetables allowed on the Phase 1 induction phase of the Atkins Diet are salad vegetables. Because of the strict restriction of carbohydrates--those on this diet are allowed only 20 grams (g) carbohydrates per day--vegetables, like sweet potatoes and potatoes, are excluded from the diet.
All fruits are also excluded because of their carbohydrate content as well. Seeds and legumes--chickpeas, lentils, kidney beans and hummus--are excluded. Nuts, sugar, pasta, bread, junk foods, alcohol, coffee, tea, ice cream and yogurt are excluded as well. Chewing gum, cough syrup and breath mints are also not allowed.
Cheese
Because cheese does contain carbohydrates, it is counted as a part of the 20g daily allowance, meaning that 1 oz. cheese is the equivalent of 1 oz. carbohydrates. Hard cheeses, such as cheddar cheese, are allowed on the Atkins Diet.
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