High Protein, Low Carbohydrate Diets (Atkins diet)
One of the most popular weight-loss methods is the low-carbohydrate
diet. Since this method only requires the reduction of carbohydrates
in the diet and still allows the dieter to partake in full
meals, it will not leave you starving. The most popular low-carbohydrate
diet is the one developed by Dr. Robert Atkins. The Atkins
Diet or Atkins, developed in the 1960s is still acknowledged
as an effective slimming program today.
The Atkins has four phases. The first phase or the induction
phase will require the dieter to closely monitor his carbohydrates
intake as only a maximum of 20 grams of carbohydrates per
day is allowed. Any alcoholic beverages or drinks containing
caffeine are also prohibited. Although the dieter is allowed
to take most meats and other foods during this time, he will
experience the highest weight-loss during this period.
After two weeks, the dieter may move to the Ongoing Weight
Loss (OWL) phase where an additional 5 grams may be added
to the daily carbohydrates target every week. It is recommended
that the dieter stick to this phase until he reaches within
10 pounds of his ideal weight. Dr. Atkins has created a ladder
that the dieter may follow regarding the right kind of foods
to include in the diet during this phase.
The Pre-maintenance phase allows the dieter to add 10 net
grams to his daily intake target per week until he finds the
ideal carbohydrates intake that will allow him to lose less
than one pound per week or to keep a stable energy level without
weight-gain.
The Maintenance phase is intended for keeping the carbohydrates
intake to the optimum level for energy-efficiency and preventing
weight gain. The first three phases should have embedded good
eating habits to the dieter. Healthier food choices are emphasized
in this phase.
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