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Atkins Diet Reviews: New Updates
And this Atkins diet review will focus primarily on professional opinion as well as the overall opinion of others.Unlike most review sites, we try not to isolate one or two reviews, but instead look at the success rate overall. Nevertheless, keep in mind diets are not a one-size-fits-all proposition. You and you alone will have to decide what diets right for you. How much can I expect to lose with the Atkins Diet plan?We found the Adkins diet plan somewhat boring borderline exhausting; however, many others... millions of others, over the years have favored this low-carb diet plan and have succeeded beyond belief ranging from a few pounds to well over one hundred pounds of weight loss.
Anyway, to the answer the question regarding how much: a recent study involving 311 women about 40 years old with an average starting weight of 189 pounds lost an average of 13 pounds in 6 months using the Atkins diet. The study appeared in the March 2007, Journal of the American Medical Association. The result of the study showed the Atkins diet did nearly double the amount of weight loss than the three other popular diet competitors: The Zone, Ornish, and U.S. Guidelines diets. The study of course states the conclusions in average amounts so the above should only provide you a general estimate. You may fare better or worse depending upon your unique condition and dedication. In most instances compared with other diets Atkins does promote greater weight loss early on. In addition to weight loss, the Atkins diet plan also advocates memory and heart health. What's behind the Atkins diet theory?The theory is based on the fact that our bodies metabolize carbs first then fat for fuel later. This is true, however, the problem is that most Americans are 'carbaholics'. The average American body is used to burning carbs all day in place of fat. The Atkins diet plan reverses that trend by drastically reducing carbs while eating more protein. Doing so forces the body to enter a state doctors call "ketosis" where the body is forced to burn fat more efficiently. How will I know if I like the Atkins diet?If you like the idea of eating three high protein / low carb meals each day without much regard to portion control or counting calories -- you'll like Atkins. If you have a sweet tooth and can live without a lot of vegetables, again – you'll like Atkins.
Also, most Atkins diet reviews and testimonials seem to indicate that more men find the Atkins diet easier to adhere to than women. Men seem to like the rugged, steak and eggs diet approach more so than women.
Finally, if you're in any way taking doctor prescribed medications or diuretics to flush out your system you'll need to follow your doctor's advice prior to starting Atkins. What are the Atkins diet menu guidelines?
The Atkins diet guidelines allow for no more than 20 grams of carbs during the first 2 weeks of the induction phase (see below). Later you can reintroduce carbs but very sparingly at about 5 grams per week.
As you progress throughout the later phases you will continue increase your carbs up until the point you start gaining weight again. But understand you WILL always eat fewer carbs then you do now. But along with that you will have also minimized cravings as well.
Other Atkins guidelines include a caffeine, alcohol, and juice restriction. Sugar substitutes like splenda is recommended. Water of course is the mainstay beverage of choice whereby you drink 8 - 8 ounce glasses daily.
Again, you only eat three meals daily but those meals exclude virtually all carbs, sugar, fruit, and some vegetables as well.
Does Atkins offer support groups, help from experts, forums, answers to faq's, etc.?Atkins has teamed up with ediets. and as a result have dramatically improved dieters overall experience. Atkins has taken advantage of recent studies that show a growing trend towards online dieting. Ediets is able to now provide live support from Atkins dieticians, online forums, recipes, customized plans, etc. for a minimal fee. Many have customized their Atkins diet as well as their eating plan to match their particular tastes and lifestyle.
Currently Ediets the highest rated support website for dieters on the internet. Highly recommended for serious dieters. How do I follow the Atkins Diet?The Atkins diet progresses through 4 phases. The idea is to transform your body and your eating habits almost "cold turkey" right from the start. Phase one, also called the "induction phase" is the diets most strict phase. Each subsequent phase mercifully and gradually loosens up until you're following the“lifetime maintenance phase”. Phase 1 (“Induction”): Get ready for a two week pure protein, saturated fat diet. This isn't be easy but at least it's brief. It's recommended that you clear out all carbs and sugars from the home before starting. Otherwise the temptation may be more than you can handle. This is an abrupt change whereby your body begins to burn fat stores instead of the 'bad' carbs you're used to eating. At anytime in the future you can fall back to this phase for quick weight loss.
Doctors term this process “ketosis”. It's a rude awakening for your metabolism to kick into a high fat burning machine. The goal is to keep carbs low...as in 20 grams or less per day. Expect anywhere from 7-14 pounds of weight loss in phase one.
TIP: It's wise to keep a list in your wallet or purse of the select foods you can and can't eat. It's not only a reminder but it's like committing goals to paper. Many successful Atkins dieters use a food reminder list.
Phase 2 (“Ongoing Weight Loss”): Often called “OWL”, phase two gives you a bit of a break bringing you a step closer to eating reality. Your total carb intake will step up to 25 grams per day and stay there until you are within 5-10 pounds of your goal.
Phase two will help “expand” your taste for better foods and help you make better carb choices. To this end the Atkins diet experts at Ediets have proven to be an extremely popular resource for Atkins dieters.
Phase 3 (“Pre-Maintenance Phase”): Phase 3 cuts you yet a little more slack and allows you to reintroduce another 10 grams of carbs . You are instructed to watch how your weight responds, however. Keep adjusting your carbs to the point you begin to gain and adjust accordingly. You should still be losing a pound or two each week. Dieters will stay on phase 3 for one month at their desired weight before transitioning to Phase 4.
Phase 4 (“Lifetime Maintenance Phase”):
At this point most have already maintaned their goal weight for at least one month in Phase 3. The desire and cravings for 'bad' carbs should be substituted for those carbs that will help you maintain your desired weight.
At this point the goal of the Atkins diet is not to keep you on a "diet" but on a lifetime maintenance or better yet, ahabit of eating that will naturally maintain your desired weight. This phase isn't a phase nor is it strict...it should be your new habit of eating. Don't despair if you break down and eat french fries with ice cream. You CAN cheat! If you cheat, move back to phase two or even phase one to compensate. TIP: It's not uncommon for Atkins dieters to slip back into old carb habits. Supporting friends, expert advice and encouragement once you begin can't be overstated enough. Most issues, setbacks, or problems have already been dealt with and can be overcome with help found at the Atkins Support group at Ediets. What are the Pros?Recent university studies have demonstrated that the Atkins diet will usually produce greater weight loss within 6 months than their competitors. So in terms of quick weight loss, if you can handle the "induction phase" the Adkins diet is tough to beat. Again, Atkins offers the personal support benefit through forums, customized menus, recipes and supplements, and dietitian council at e-diets. The Cons?I've found that many Atkins diet reviews beat up the Atkins diet unfairly. Abuse from cardiologists, dietitians, the media and a lot of other naysayers (even the American Heart Association) is in most cases unsubtantiated and in most cases mere opinion or tradition.
Many claim Dr. Atkins a con, and his diet unhealthy for the heart, arteries, kidneys, etc. Many claim the process of “ketosis” whereby body fat is broken down for fuel is dangerous as well.
Yet with all the criticisms nothing is substantiated. I can't say that any of it is wrong either. But most seem to overstate criticisms yet without evidence from clinical study for support. Even Dr. Agaston founder of the South Beach Diet, (Atkins' biggest competitor) states that most Atkins criticisms have been overstated.
If there is any legitimate concerns it is that no one really knows what the long term effects of the Atkins diet are since they've not studied the diet long term. Currently 6 months to a year has been the longest study that has been reported. Short term effects commonly reported are bad breath, fatigue, and constipation.
Nonetheless, the drum that the Anti-Atkins folks beat the most is the diets high saturated fat allowances. The typical Atkins diet during the first 2 week induction phase consumes around 60% of calories from a balance of different fat sources. That's about double to what's typically recommended. But again that's not indicative of all phases, only the first 2 weeks. By the way, a low-fat Atkins diet is not an option. The saturated fat is an important part of the Atkins equation that can't be omitted without ruining the diet altogether. What are Dietitians or Doctors saying about Atkins?A lot of them express concern about the diets high saturated fat intake, especially during the induction phase. The extreme low-carb diet is so contrary to what's currently recommended (130 grams) that it naturally gets a lot of raised eyebrows from the traditional diet "experts".
Many claim the potentially adverse long term effects of a low-carb diet rich in saturated fats -- but without evidence for support.
Some conclusive studies have provided answers however. The following statement sums up what most experts typically conclude. In an article to physicians regarding the Atkins Diet Reviews, a research scientist wrote:
"In regards to the Atkins Diet a more moderate carbohydrate intake with more diversity in food selection will provide not only a broader nutrient intake but also less boredom. Atkins and other low-carbohydrate programs that all but eliminate sugar and refined carbohydrates from the diet could help establish an even more healthful restructuring of dietary patterns in that respect." -REBECCA K. KIRBY, M.D., M.S., R.D., Physician and Senior Research Scientist, Center for the Improvement of Human Functioning International, Inc Diet Directions:Throughout my research and experience with Atkins diet and reviews, I find the long term unknown effects a bit uncomfortable. It doesn't bother me that the Atkins diet is deemed "radical" because it goes against standard, traditional nutritional principles. My Atkins Diet reviews have left me with the following: I would just like to KNOW what the long terms effects are.
Carbohydrates provide vitamins, minerals, fiber and anti-oxidants. All of which are necessary nutritional components of a healthy diet. If studies can show that we can thrive with less of these carbs, then I'll advocate Atkins more.. after all, I like steak and eggs.
If you're wanting to lose a quick 10-15 pounds and don't mind eating meat, cheese, and eggs for 2 weeks,....then do it! Commit yourself whole heartedly. But until conclusive research gives us a better understanding of the long term effects, I can only recommend short term dieting with Atkins.
Recent short term studies (6 months-1 year) show good to average results especially within 6 months. But long term dieters tend to fall away. Our bodies seem to say, “that's enough!”and eventually crave more variety than what the Atkins diet might allow.
If the preceding Atkins diet reviews have caused you to consider other low-carb plan approaches with a better long term solution I recommend starting with the South Beach Diet.
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