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Atkins Low Carb Diet - An Effective Loss in Weight

Low carb diets have definitely the rage in all classes of the society, form famous to not-so-famous, when it comes to loosing weight. One of the best known in this diet category is the Atkins low carb diet, founded by Dr. Robert Atkins in the 1960's. The theory behind this weight loss program is that the carbohydrates (and not fat) contribute to gain in weight.

According to Dr. Atkins, if you reduce the amount of carbohydrates you take in; your body will be reduced to burning its own fat for energy. This process is called ketosis, which can also affect insulin production and reduce the amount of new fat that is formed. The result can be a dramatic weight loss in those who follow the Atkins low carb diet carefully, especially in the first six months on the program.

Different Phases of the Atkins Low Carb Diet

The Atkins program is completed in three phases. The first phase, called the induction phase is a two week process and is the most restrictive on diet choices. During this phase of the Atkins low carb diet, the carbohydrate intake should be restricted to 20 grams per day. Fruit is complete no-no, and so is alcohol and some veggies. The motive is to allow your body time to begin burning its fat as fuel. You loose a lot of weight in this phase and boost the motivation to stick to it further.

After this phase the second phase is the ongoing weight loss phase wherein the carbohydrate intake is raised to about 40 grams per day and some concession on the fruit and veggie intake, which may depend on your personal metabolism rate. The idea during the phase is to set goals for your weight loss program, and select foods depending on whether or not they help you gain or lose weight. Once the diet program is set up the third phase is the maintenance phase. This is the least restrictive on the diet choices, provided optimum weight is maintained.

Many people following Atkins low carb diet experience a dramatic weight loss especially within the first six months of beginning the program. While some agree with Dr. Atkins' theories about fat burning and insulin production, others believe that the lessening of calories resulted due to restriction of diet is the reason for such a dramatic weight loss. However, the end result is what matters the most and that is reduction in weight! But remember to consult a physician before beginning any diet and weight loss program, including the Atkins low carb diet.

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