Analyzing Diets

One of the most popular diets on the market is the Atkins Diet, which was introduced by Dr. Robert Atkins in the 1970’s, and has spurred a legion of low-carb dieters in the United States. For twenty years, millions of Americans have regulated their intake of carbohydrates following the teachings of Dr. Atkins. The diet, which was reintroduced in the book Dr. Atkins New Diet Revolution, focuses on the restriction of carbohydrates to 20 grams in a persons diet at the start of the program and then adjusting his diet to accommodate up to 40-50 grams of carbohydrates during the ‘maintenance’ phase. 

During the initial phase , dieters are not allowed to have more than 20 grams of carbohydrates and also are forbidden to have any alcoholic or caffeinated drinks. Also they must also refrain from consuming starchy foods, bread or even fruits. There are no restrictions on meats and other sources of protein and yet weight-loss is fastest during this period. Later on, more carbohydrates will be allowed in the diet but dieters will be asked to watch their intake of refined grains and sugar. By the time a dieter reaches the Maintenance phase, he would already have been used to making smart food choices and would already know the amount of carbohydrates that he can consume that will keep him in top shape.

Advocates of the Atkins Diet state that the diet teaches the body to burn calories more efficiently and in turn reduces fatigue on the body, gets rid of depression associated with weight loss and dieting, and cuts down on muscle pains.