Atkins Diet

The Atkins diet became popular in the 60s of the 20th century, although the first roots of the low or carbohydrate-free diet for quick weight reduction go back to the 19th century.

A healthy diet also known as the newest Atkins diet program is according to Atkins based on 5 rules: high intake of protein, fiber, essential vitamins and minerals, the exclusion of trans-fat and low sugar intake. This diet focuses only on healthy foods rich in proteins and poor in carbohydrates.

In 1972, Atkins published a book called The Atkins Carbohydrate Diet. The diet reduces the food selection very extremely and later on it was modified in order to include fruits and vegetables into the healthy diet as well. However, this diet has been still controversial up to now. Another option offering the weight loss by dieting is the South Beach program. This diet covers healthy meals consisting of fruits, vegetables and limited amounts of whole grain products. One part of the South Beach diet are transitional phases as well.

Low-carbohydrate diets and Atkins diet are synonymous to reducing the carbohydrate intake, increasing of the proteins from meat and fish. The diet offers a longer feeling of satisfaction and satiety in comparison with other types of program.

Basic principle of the diet is the initial restriction of the carbohydrates intake, however later is this intake increased. During the maintenance phase, meals with small amount of carbs are allowed in order to regulate the insulin secretion. Throughout the diet, only foods low in carbohydrates are allowed what results in starvation of the body. The body can compensate the inadequate intake of carbs by lamination of proteins from muscles and body fat. Excessive proteins or fats will be broken down into ketones. The dehydration may often occur as a result of washing out of harmful substances along with water from body issues.

The first results which point the weight loss out are associated with water deriving from kidneys with a little fat burnt. Therefore it is important to follow regular drinking regimen while on the Atkins diet.

The Atkins diet studies has firstly shown the initial weight loss. However, any significant weight loss results was not reached by the end of the program. The rule of short-term efficiency is applied for any low-carbohydrate diets. In case of extreme obesity, it is necessary to consult a health care professional or dietitian in order to prevent any signs of dehydration and poor levels of ketones.

The Atkins diet firstly causes rapid weight loss and thus may have a positive impact on keeping the healthy lifestyle. However, before starting the Aktins diet, you need to consider all possible consequences of dehydration, calcium loss which can accelerate osteoporosis through prolonged diet, kidney problems, level of ketones in our blood, digestive problems, changes in blood lipids, very limited selection of food itself, which can cause rebound weight gain after the dieting and feeling of deprivation of varied food range.

Young people suffering from kidney, heart, circulatory and other diseases should firstly consult a health care proffesional before starting this diet. New versions of the program recommend daily exercising for at least 30 minutes in form of aerobic or fitness trainings.