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Review of the Atkins Diet
from: DietFitnessCenter.comThe theory behind Atkins diet is controlling carbohydrates, or "proactive nutrition". There are five core principles for dieting with Atkins. The first is high protein that builds and repairs muscles and bones as well as boosts metabolism. The second is high fiber that controls appetite, regulates blood sugar, and helps with digestion. The third is a high intake of vitamins and minerals. These provide energy, and protect the body against free radicals. The fourth is a low intake of sugar, this helps to avoid a "sugar spike and crash" which are also low glycemic impact foods. The fifth is elimination of Trans fats; this gives a low risk factor for heart disease. These five principles are designed to keep energy levels steady and strong all day.
Atkins diet promises people to lose weight, not be hungry, better heart health, and better memory. This diet is based on the idea that people who are overweight eat too many carbohydrates. Our bodies use fat and carbohydrates for energy, with carbohydrates being used first. With fewer carbohydrates our bodies will burn off stored fat allowing us to lose weight.
The Atkins diet plan sets few limits on amount of food eaten, however it restricts the kind of food allowed; example no refined sugar, milk, white rice, or white flour. The plan allows people to eat rich foods; example meat, eggs cheese etc. Individuals are eating almost pure protein and fat. Individuals can eat red meat, fish, poultry, regular cheese, cook with butter, eat mayonnaise, and olive oil. Carbohydrates are restricted (20 grams per day minus fiber) for the first two weeks. This equals three cups of salad or two cups of salad with two thirds cup of certain cooked vegetables each day. There are no exceptions to these rules, and there is not counting of calories involved. Later carbohydrate allowance increases in the form of fiber, but still no refined sugar, milk, white rice, white bread, white potatoes, or pasta from white flour. These are permanently gone. Individuals can add fruits, vegetables, and whole grain foods after first two weeks. Then individuals transitions from weight loss to weight maintenance as carbohydrates are increased. Exercise is emphasized in all parts.
Atkins theories have not been proved, and experts are worried that a diet high in protein and fat can precipitate quite a few issues for people. Especially for those who are at risk for heart disease. Even more worrisome, the plan does not allow for a high intake of fruits and vegetables which experts say provide many health benefits.
All information provided came from www.atkins.com, and www.webmd.com.
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