The Atkins Diet may be the right diet for you if you ...
- Are willing to drastically reduce the overall carbohydrates and sugar in your diet.
Are also willing to eliminate or drastically reduce specific foods such as grains, fruit and many dairy products.
Enjoy eating meat, eggs and butter.
Are willing to follow the plan as set out in three separate phases in the Atkins book, including the very strict Induction Phase.
Are willing to test yourself or be tested for signs of ketosis.
Are willing to count the number of carbohydrates you consume on a regular basis.
Are willing to determine the most carbs you can possibly eat without gaining weight back (once you have lost weight) and then stick to that carbohydrate-budget.
More Factors to Consider:
If you have cholesterol problems, take note: Dr. Atkins wrote in his book that about one out of every three people improve their cholesterol by following a low-fat diet instead of the Atkins Diet (which can contain a lot of saturated fat and cholesterol). It is important to speak to your doctor about the best dietary approach for managing your cholesterol.
If you are taking diuretics or insulin, it is especially important that you speak to your doctor before trying the Atkins Diet.
The Atkins Diet is not appropriate for people who suffer from gout, heart or circulation problems, type I diabetes, kidney disease or osteoporosis.
The Atkins Diet is not to be followed by pregnant women or teenagers.
Vegetarians will not be able to follow the Atkins Diet.
Suggested Alternative:
You may prefer a different low-carb diet that also limits saturated fat and allows more daily servings of carbohydrates, such as Protein Power, if this plan seems too restrictive or you are concerned about saturated fat intake.
