Atkins Diet By: Tanner Glass and Patrick Sexton

Background Created by Dr. Robert Atkins. First wrote about in the 1970’s in his book The New Diet Revolution. Named “The most popular diet program” by Time Magazine. Food manufactures then started creating low carb foods to compete with the Atkins diet. The diet ran out of favor in 2004.

What is it? Basics of the Diet The Atkins diet is a low carbohydrate diet. Involves limited consumption of carbohydrates to switch body's metabolism from metabolizing glucose as energy. Converts stored body fat to energy. Four phases in the diet: 1.Phase 1- Lasts for a minimum of two weeks and only allows a maximum of 20 carbohydrates to be eaten. 2.Phase 2- More fibrous vegetables(carbs) are added to the diet. The small increase in carbs is managed week to week. 3.Phase 3- Carbohydrate intake is increased again until the critical carbohydrate level is found and reached. 4.Phase 4- The final and longest phase. Making sure you don’t go back to your old ways and maintain the critical carbohydrate level.

Exercise Recommendations No exercises are required but things such as aerobics are recommended. Anaerobic exercises such as lifting weights are also recommended.

Pros You don’t need to cut out high fat foods such as meat, cream, and cheese. You don’t get hungry because you are allowed to eat many of the foods you like. Not all carbohydrates are counted in total allowance. Foods rich in dietary fibers can be eaten more freely. People with type 2 diabetes have shown better insulin function.

Cons The Atkins diet had a high drop-out rate. The diet may lead to an increase in uric acid which may cause headaches and kidney problems. Weight can be easily gained back after completion of the diet. There can be low amounts of fiber on the diet leading to constipation and possible bowel disease. The Atkins diet may lead to cardiac disease due to the amounts of animal fat eaten while on the Atkins diet. Patients with heart disease should avoid this diet.

Our Opinion We think it’s a good diet. Must exercise however. Gives flexibility to eat what you want. Risk factors are pretty low. Helps lose weight quickly and keep the pounds off. You can lose 4-16 pounds quickly maybe even more.

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