10 Facts You Should Know about The Atkins Diet

The Atkins diet has been heavily promoted as an alternative weight-loss diet for people who dislike counting calories or following other regimented diet plans. Rather than focusing on calorie counting, it emphasizes restricting carbohydrates and other foods deemed “unhealthy” by Dr. Atkins. The relative simplicity of this diet has attracted millions of consumers in the United States and beyond. 

The Atkins Diet

Before you adopt the Atkins diet, though, consider these 10 facts:

1. Fruits are Forbidden during the Initial Phase

During the first two weeks, you cannot consume any fruits at all on the Atkins diet. The rationale for this restriction is not immediately apparent. By eliminating fruits, you may be depriving your body of essential vitamins, fiber, and other nutrients necessary for proper physical function. 

2. Starchy Vegetables Are Initially Forbidden

In addition to forbidding fruits, the Atkins Diet requires you to eliminate starchy vegetables during the initial two-week period. If you’ve never tried to prepare a meal without corn, carrots or potatoes, you may be in for an unpleasant surprise. 

3. Dining Out is Difficult

You might as well clear the idea of dining out from your mind, particularly during the diet’s initial phase. It can be nearly impossible to find restaurant selections that meet all of the diet’s restrictions. Similarly, visiting friends or family for dinner can be frustrating for both you and your host. 

4. The Atkins Diet can be High in Saturated Fats

The Atkins diet restricts many types of foods; however, it gives the green light to eggs and red meats. Both types of foods are high in saturated fats, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease. 

5. The Atkins Diet Requires Carb Counting

Throughout the diet, you will be required to keep a close eye on your carbohydrate intake. If you dislike counting calories, you might not be much happier counting carbohydrates. The diet emphasizes limiting your intake to 20 g per day. 

6. Carbohydrates are Necessary Nutrients

The Atkins diet focuses on carbohydrate restriction as the key to weight loss; however, carbohydrates are the building blocks of the human body. They are necessary for maintaining physical energy and mental sharpness. Many people who try the Atkins diet experience “carb crashes” characterized by unfocused thinking and low energy.

7. Your Kidneys can Suffer

A diet heavy in red meats and eggs loads your body with protein. Although protein is a building block, too much can place a strain on your kidneys. 

8. Quickly Levels Off

Most people who adopt the Atkins diet experience rapid weight loss during the first few weeks; however, weight loss quickly levels off after this period. By the six-month mark, most people find that weight loss has ceased altogether. 

9. Sticking to the Diet is Difficult

Given the weight loss plateau and the general restrictiveness of the diet, relatively few people stay on the diet on a long-term basis. You might find yourself switching diets or giving up on your weight loss goals altogether. 

10. Certain Types of Alcohol are Permitted

The Atkins diet does permit certain types of alcohol, such as red wine. Because some other diets forbid alcohol, this diet is attractive to some people. Keep in mind, though, that alcoholic drinks are typically high in calories and devoid of nutritional content.

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