The Atkins Diet rose to popularity in the 1990s and may be the most famous "fad diet" in the United States today. Followers like it because it allows you to eat as much as you would like, provided you avoid carbohydrates and fried foods. While questions remain about its long-term side effects, it has indeed proven to help people lose weight and feel healthier in the short term.
The Basics
The Atkins Diet is the brainchild of the late Dr. Robert Atkins, a physician and cardiologist who invented the plan in an effort to lose weight himself. It emphasizes protein and fat intake, as well as low-starch vegetables, and keeps carb intake at an absolute minimum. For instance, dieters on the Atkins plan might have a bacon cheeseburger with mayonnaise and mustard for lunch, but not eat the carb-enriched bun. Steak and bacon would be fine for dinner, as long as the meal is not complemented with a baked potato. Sugars and caffeine are almost entirely forbidden as well.
The Theories
Supporters of the Atkins approach insist foods on the diet help burn calories, as the restriction of carbs is said to switch the body from burning glucose to burning stored body fat. The first two weeks of the diet, known as the "induction phase," are said to be the toughest as the body adapts to the change. Many followers report a lack of energy and headaches during the initial two weeks. These side effects are replaced by weight loss in the ensuing phases and according to disciples, improved mood and vigor.
The Pros
Most studies have shown that, if followed properly, the Atkins Diet will indeed result in weight loss and increased energy levels. And while it does not permit you to eat unlimited amounts of fat (sensible servings are strongly encouraged in his book), most of the foods on the Atkins menu do taste good and can be eaten freely without feelings of guilt. Also, after the induction phase, you can slowly begin to incorporate a limited amount of carbs back into the diet.
The Cons
Since the Atkins Diet eliminates fruit and other high-fiber foods such as bread and pasta, many devotees can experience side effects such as constipation or even dizziness. Some doctors have also expressed concern over the long-term effects of a diet that allows a high intake of fat, particularly when it comes to heart disease. On top of all that, eliminating carbohydrates severely limits food choices, making eggs, meats or poultry the centerpiece of practically every meal.
The Results
When it comes to weight loss, the Atkins Diet has been proven to help users shed pounds---sometimes quickly---if followed properly. People in the induction phase have been said to lose as many as 10 lbs. in two weeks. According to plan, that will slow to 1 to 3 lbs. per week in ongoing stages.
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