Dr. Robert Atkins first wrote about the Atkins diet in the 1970s, in his book The New Diet Revolution. Over recent years, the Atkins diet plan has become one of the most popular diet plans – with Time Magazine naming it “The most popular diet program”. Food manufacturers quickly formulated low-carb food products, but during 2004 the diet rapidly fell out of favor. However it will always remain a very useful diet for many people.
In response to the negative press some aspects of the Atkins program received, the people at Atkins have revamped their program for 2010 so that it lines up with a healthier way of eating called “The New Atkins for a New You.”  See how it has changed below................

Original Atkins Diet

Atkins has four phases – all with a carefully controlled level of carbohydrate intake.

Phase 1

The restrictive induction phases lasts for a minimum of two weeks and calls for a maximum of 20 grams of carbohydrate intake (no starchy vegetables, fruits, grains, bread).
Weight loss on the Atkins diet is based on the process of Ketosis:

“First, the main source of energy for our bodies is carbohydrates. When we have fewer carbs in our body, it must look elsewhere for another source of energy. Next in line is stored body fat. So reducing carbs forces the body to burn fat. This process is called Ketosis. Secondly, carbs stimulate the creation of insulin. Insulin is what converts excess carbs to fat. So when you have less carbs you have less insulin and therefore create less new fat.”

Phase 2

The Ongoing Weight Loss phase involves adding more fibrous vegetables (carbohydrates) until the “Critical Carbohydrate Level for Losing” is reached. The small increases in carbohydrates are carefully managed on a week-by-week basis.

Phase 3 and 4

These phases are maintenance phases – where carbohydrate intake can be increased – but only until the point that weight is maintained (Critical Carbohydrate Level for Maintenance). Any food that may lead to weight gain should be avoided.
Atkins recommends choosing unrefined or unprocessed carbohydrates.

The New Atkins

The New Atkins For a New You is designed to reflect a greater emphasis on healthy, nutritionally dense foods along with portion control. Atkins has recently strengthened their online diet program and is in the process of making their services international.
The New Atkins for a New You differs from the original in the following ways:

• More of an emphasis on wholesome foods.
• Stresses the importance of healthy fats.
• More focused on nutrition from fresh vegetables, lean protein, fruits, and whole grains.
• More flexible to appeal to people with busy lifestyles.
• More emphasis on portion and Calorie control.
• Special attention given to those who are diabetic as well as vegetarians.
• More emphasis on being active and exercise.

Pros

• Many have experienced success following the Atkins Plan.
• Quick results can be experienced.
• Many restaurants have adopted low-carb options on their menus.
• The New Atkins has been adapted to a broader range of dieters with special dietary considerations.
• Many Atkins approved snacks are available in the grocery store.

See our more extensive review of The New Atkins Diet Plan here.

Cons

• One of the most controversial issues with Atkins is that it is high-fat diet. Most government health agencies recommend no more than 30% fat in our diet – yet with Atkins you can easily consume more fat than this. However, the new Atkins has lined up with this percentage and recommends healthy fats.
• One must question how healthy the process of Ketosis is. In the short term it may have the desired effect – but in the long term? Some suggest that certain organs may be overworked to sustain the process of Ketosis.
• Promotion of their own line of processed meals and snacks.

Conclusion

Atkins has been very successful for many people and has resulted in not only significant weight loss – but also health improvement. Many people do find the diet demanding at first and need to make significant behavior modification to get the best out of Atkins. If you are thinking of beginning this diet, we strongly encourage you to research and read as much as possible before beginning the diet and consult with your health professional.