Founded by Dr. Robert C. Atkins, the Atkins Diet is a popular weight loss plan that emphasizes eating lean protein, vegetables and fats while severely restricting carbohydrates, such as bread, pasta and fruit. Atkins is one of several popular low-carb diet plans.
Phase 1: Induction
The Atkins Diet is composed of four phases. In Phase 1, participants eliminate most carbohydrates from their diet and eat only certain fresh vegetables and lean protein such as chicken, fish and eggs. No nuts or fruits are allowed during this phase.
Phase 2: Ongoing Weight Loss
During Phase 2, participants can reintroduce certain foods into their diets, such as high-fiber fruits, nuts, seeds and a wider variety of vegetables.
Phase 3: Pre-Maintenance
Participants continue to add some carbohydrates back into their diet during the third phase, until they are no longer losing weight but also not gaining. Atkins calls this "the point of equilibrium."
Phase 4, Lifetime Maintenance
During the final phase, participants continue the eating habits learned in the previous phases in order to maintain their weight. If weight gain begins to occur, the program encourages participants to revert back to previous phases to avoid substantial regain.
How it Works
The human body primarily burns carbohydrates for fuel. Excess carbohydrates are stored as body fat. By severely limiting the intake of carbohydrates, the Atkins Diet causes the body to burn fat for fuel---a condition called ketosis---resulting in weight loss.
Health Risks
While following a low-carbohydrate diet such as Atkins can result in weight loss, some studies indicate this type of diet may put followers at greater risk for medical conditions such as heart disease or kidney disease. Side effects of the Atkins Diet may include bad breath, dizziness and diarrhea. Atkins is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women or people with certain medical conditions.
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