By: Phillip England
It's hard to imagine, but the Atkins Weight Loss Plan – which has grown in popularity in recent years – has actually been around since the 1970s. If you want to know more about this program, this article would be able to help you.
In 1972, Dr. Robert C. Atkins introduced the program which is based on the concept of controlled carbohydrate intake. His program is considered “revolutionary” since his teachings go totally against what is considered the norm and until now many are questioning the effectiveness of the program.
What happens when someone is on the Atkins Weight Loss Plan?
The first two weeks of program is called the “induction” period. During this time, dieters are allowed to eat no more than 20 grams of carbohydrates per day. Foods that contain carbohydrates include cereals, fruits, vegetables (potatoes, corn, carrots, peas, zucchini, broccoli) bread, milk, grains, pasta, starches, etc. This translates into a diet consisting of nearly unlimited amounts of meats, poultry, seafood, oils, butter, margarine, bacon, eggs, cheeses and sausages. The 20 gram carb limit is generally derived from trace amounts of carbs in sauces, cheeses and a couple cups of lettuce greens or vegetables daily. After the first two weeks, dieters can stat adding about 5 more grams of carbohydrates to their diet weekly. Gradually, the program's goal is to maintain a diet consisting of no more than 40-90 grams of carbohydrates. This is the part of the program that is called the "maintenance" phase.
A typical Atkins Weight Loss Plan menu looks like this:
1. Breakfast - Omelet with bacon or ham and onions 2 slices tomato
2. Lunch - Tossed salad Spicy burger with cheese (no bun)
3. Dinner - Baked salmon or Halibut Steamed broccoli with lemon juice and pepper
4. Snack - guacamole with raw veggies
Many people claimed to have lost their weight while on the program. Critics would attribute the weight loss to the limited amount of food that one can consume while on the program. Experts also oppose the very limited amount of carbohydrates that the program allows which is below the levels of health experts and major health organizations would recommend.
