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What is Dr. Atkins' weight loss program?
What is Dr. Atkins' weight loss program?
The Atkins weight loss program is a high-protein, high-fat, and very low-carbohydrate
regimen. It emphasizes meat, cheese, and eggs, while discouraging foods such
as bread, pasta, fruit, and sugar. It is a form of ketogenic diet.
Where did Atkin’s Weight Loss Program come from?
Robert C. Atkins, a cardiologist and internist, developed the weight loss program
in the early 1970s. It first came to public attention in 1972 with the publication
of Dr. Atkins' Diet Revolution. It quickly became a bestseller but unlike most
other fad diet books, this one has remained popular. At last count, it had been
reprinted 28 times and sold more than 10 million copies worldwide. Since then,
Atkins has authored a number of other books on his diet theme. He is director
of the Atkins Center for Complementary Medicine, which he founded in the early
1980s in New York City.
What are the benefits of Atkin’s weight loss program
The primary benefit of the weight loss program is rapid and substantial weight
loss. By restricting carbohydrate intake, the body will burn more fat stored
in the body. Since there are no limits on the amount of calories or quantities
of foods allowed on the diet, there is little hunger between meals. According
to Atkins, the weight loss program can alleviate symptoms of conditions such
as fatigue, irritability, headaches, depression, and some types of joint
and muscle pain.
Description of Atkin’s weight loss program
The regimen is a low-carbohydrate, or ketogenic diet, characterized by initial
rapid weight loss, usually due to water loss. Drastically reducing the amount
of carbohydrate intake causes liver and muscle glycogen loss, which has a
strong but temporary diuretic effect. Long-term weight loss occurs because
with a low amount of carbohydrate intake, the body burns stored fat for energy.
The four-step weight loss program starts with a two-week induction program
designed to rebalance an individual's metabolism. Unlimited amounts of fat
and protein are allowed but carbohydrate intake is restricted to 15-20 grams
per day. Foods allowed include butter, oil, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese,
and cream. The daily amount of carbohydrates allowed equals about three cups
of salad vegetables, such as lettuce, cucumbers, and celery.
The second stage is for ongoing weight loss. It allows 15-40 grams of carbohydrates
a day. When the individual is about 10 pounds from their desired weight, they
begin the pre-maintenance phase. This gradually adds one to three servings
a week of high carbohydrate foods, such as a piece of fruit or slice of whole-wheat
bread. When the desired weight is reached, the maintenance stage begins. It
allows 40-60 grams of carbohydrates per day. |
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