March 30, 2007

Exercise and Atkins - A Great Combo for Success!

Written by Mark Petersen

One of the key ways to succeed at the Atkins diet is to include exercise with your diet.

The Atkins diet folks themselves stress this as a key motivator for following and staying on the Atkins diet. Exercise makes you happy and happy about yourself. It is an important ingredient in the overall format of the Atkins diet and a crucial part of succeeding at the Atkins diet.

When you stay on an exercise regimen you can allow yourself more choices of Atkins food, which in turn keeps you from being bored with the meals and helps you succeed at the Atkins diet.

The key to your Atkins diet and exercise combination is choosing exercise you enjoy. If you are quiet, for example, you may enjoy the peace of a walk early in the morning. Or if you think you need to help yourself succeed at the Atkins diet in a more energized robust way join an exercise or fitness class or club.

If you’ve got a busy schedule and taking the time to go to the club or even the track is more than you can easily accomplish get yourself a home gym or DVD with your favorite form of exercise.

If moral support or companionship is important find a friend to work out or walk with.

Whatever form of exercise you choose to help you succeed at your Atkins diet set a goal and a schedule for yourself and follow it diligently. Don’t let yourself get bogged down in “I should have worked out but I was so busy.” If you do this you are cheating yourself and you’re endangering your chances of succeeding at the Atkins diet.

Keep to your exercise schedule and you will succeed at the Atkins diet.

If you enjoyed this article on the Atkins diet, please visit http://bestatkinsdietinfo.com to find an extensive listing of Atkins diet related information, resources, and articles. Visit us today to discover how you can lose weight with the Atkins diet.

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March 28, 2007

Vitamin Supplement For The Atkins Diet

Written by D Fraser

Do you believe that an effective diet would purposefully keep us from eating foods rich in the nutrients and vitamins? NO!!! Although Dr.Atkins promoted his diet, he promoted vitamin supplement for the Atkins diet also.

At present we are in a position to brand vitamin supplement for the Atkins diet to replace those very nutrients. Chemical analysis of Atkins diet confirms that daily values for some of the vitamins and minerals are not up to the mark. But some of the daily values are even 400%25 in the Atkins diet. For example, Atkins diets analysis during induction period provides 37%25 of calcium but with 86%25 of the iron during the same period.

Once you include vitamin supplement for the Atkins diet, the lacunae have been filled up correctly. You ought to consume one of those delicious Atkins bars to fulfill your daily requirements of calcium, as the calcium is not present in the tablets also.

It is really amazing to note that you would be getting over 400%25 of the daily values for vitaminC during maintanence stage of the diet, but only 33%25 during the induction period. To whom we would blame for this deficit? Hence vitamin supplement for Atkins diet satisfies this needs.

It is really difficult to prepare a list of normal foods to be included in our diet to get enough RDA of minerals and vitamins for public use. Do you think eating a balanced diet is eyewash? You may ask -Why do we have to go to such ill-advised extremes? It is really doubtful about a diet which bears that it includes necessary vitamin and mineral supplements. More over it is not advisable to ask our people not to take the diet that holds the minerals and vitamins they need and also ask them to procure vitamin supplements for the Atkins diet separately.

If you have chosen these diets for your life style, then you need to include a vitamin supplement for the Akins diet. Still, I am willing to bet that you aren’t receiving all the minerals and vitamins you need on a daily basis. For example, protein and cholesterol are far too much to present in the Atkins diet. Balanced diet is the real key for any diet. As bottom line, we can conclude that unless your medical condition forces to prevent the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals, you’re not likely to need supplements. Hence please consult your physicians before taking a vitamin supplement for the Atkins Diet or any other diet.

We publish an array of websites on health and dieting for more information about the atkins diet and other supplements and nutrional needs visit our site Nutrition Tips.

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March 27, 2007

Is the Atkins Diet Safe?

Written by Adam Waxler

Copyright 2005 Adam Waxler

The Atkins diet is a weight loss diet based on the principle that the body burns both carbohydrates and fat for calories. Therefore, according to the Atkins diet, if you reduce the amounts of carbohydrates in your diet, you will burn more fat and you will experience more weight loss.

According to the Atkins diet, calories are not the main focus. The key to losing weight with the Atkins diet is lowering your carbohydrate intake. By restricting your intake of carbohydrates you will encourage your body to turn to fat for energy and therefore your body will be burning fat instead of carbohydrates.

The Atkins diet has provoked a significant amount of controversy since it was first published. The recommendation to eat a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet went against the dietary recommendations of many established medical institutions. The Atkins diet was denounced as unsafe, particularly if used as a life-long weight loss plan. Over the past five to ten years, there have been numerous studies that come down on both sides of determining if the Atkins diet is safe. The last version of the Atkins diet included the admission that calories do matter, and the advice to ‘eat only enough to satisfy hunger’.

The eating plan recommended by the Atkins diet contains very low portions of carbohydrates, deriving the majority of carbohydrates from vegetables high in fiber and low in carbs, and unrestricted portions of proteins, including high fat proteins like beef, pork and cheese.

Follow up research on people who have used the Atkins Diet to lose weight show a fast initial weight loss that eventually levels off. The Atkins Diet has four phases:

Phase 1 of the Atkins Diet: The Induction Phase, which restricts carbohydrates severely.

Phase 2 of the Atkins Diet: The OWL (Ongoing Weight Loss) Phase, in which you add in limited carbs and tailor the eating plan to your tastes.

Phase 3 of the Atkins Diet: Pre-maintenance, with ten pounds or less to the target goal, deliberately slows weight loss to begin adjusting the body to after-weight-loss diet.

Phase 4 of the Atkins Diet: Lifetime Maintenance, a long-term eating plan that emphasizes a low carbohydrate diet and healthy, long-term eating.

Despite the reassurances that you can “eat all you want and still lose weight”, it is important to pay attention to the portions recommended in the menus and eating plans at www.atkins.com.

So who should use the Atkins Diet? Is the Atkins diet safe?

While the Atkins Diet seems on the surface to be directly counter to what is recommended by most medical institutions, many of the principles are actually the same. Unless you are under the care of a physician for a chronic medical condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, or coronary problems, you can use the Atkins Diet.

Adam Waxler publishes the Weight-Loss-Power-Package…a collection of six weight loss ebooks guaranteed to help you lose weight. For more information on the Atkins Diet check out the complete package here: http://www.weight-loss-power-package.com and check out his blog for free weight loss tips here: http://www.weight-loss-machine.com/blog

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March 25, 2007

Atkins Diet - Good or Bad?

Written by Nicky Pilkington

The Atkins diet, without a doubt, has been the most controversial diet of all time. Seldom does a week go by that the news media does not mention the Atkins diet.

The Atkins diet, first introduced in 1972 by cardiologist Dr. Robert Atkins, is considered the most extreme of the low carb diets. Hundreds of research studies by universities and research teams throughout North America, Europe, and Asia have been conducted on the Atkins diet.

The Atkins diet, as with any diet program, has its good and bad points - but, whatever side you are on, one thing is for sure. Dr. Atkins, and the Atkins diet, has done for the diet and nutrition industry what Mohammad Ali did for the boxing industry. Dr. Atkins created new awareness and introduced new concepts that will forever affect how we look at diets for weight loss as well as diets for health. Although the low carb diet was first written about in the late 1800’s, low carb dieting truly came to life with the birth of the Atkins diet.

Let’s take a look at three good and bad points of the Atkins diet.

Atkins diet - the good stuff.

1. THE ATKINS DIET BURNS FAT FASTER THAN ANY OTHER DIET. The human body is designed to use two different fuels to sustain life - glucose from carbs or ketones from fat. Glucose is the primary fuel, fat the backup. Every weight loss diet is based on the concept of burning fat. Conventional diets generally are designed to burn fat by starvation - by eating fewer calories than you use every day. This causes the body to dip into its reserve energy source - the fat surrounding your abdomen and your thighs first.

The Atkins diet approaches fat burning a different way. It limits the glucose (carb) intake so the body adjusts itself to using ketones (fat) as its primary fuel. Normally within three to four days of starting, your body is literally a fat burning machine on the Atkins diet.

2. THE ATKINS DIET DOESN’T LEAVE YOU HUNGRY. Unlike most conventional diets, the Atkins diet is not based so much on calorie intake. Dr. Atkins does, however, warn that you should not stuff yourself but only eat until satisfied. Also, since you are replacing carbs with protein, and the main protein source is meat, a high percentage of each meal will consist of meat and fat. Meat and fat are more fulfilling and much slower to digest. Not only do you feel more satisfied at dinner, but it will stay with you longer on the Atkins diet.

3. THE ATKINS DIET IS SAFE AND HEALTHY. The vast majority of studies show the Atkins diet to be extremely healthy, in comparison to other conventional weight loss and lifestyle diets. Nearly every study shows the Atkins diet the winner in reducing cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure. In addition, many cases of acid reflux, sleep apnea, and diabetes have either had the symptoms reduced or completely disappear while on the Atkins diet.

Also, you’ll often hear “we have no way of knowing the long term safety of low carb diets”. Fact is, the Atkins diet has been around for over 30 years - longer than most other weight loss programs. Although first written about at the end of the 19th century, the low carb diet has actually been around for centuries prior to that.

How so? The North American Eskimo. Their diet has primarily been no or very low carbs. Yet chronic diseases that are epidemic today, such as diabetes and heart disease, were practically unknown among the Eskimos. At least this was true until they were introduced to sugar and white flour. The Eskimos have been well studied and found to be a healthy and hardy bunch, even after centuries of living on a low carb diet. Yes - a low carb diet much more extreme than even the Atkins diet.

Atkins Diet - The Bad Stuff.

1. THE ATKINS DIET BURNS FAT TOO QUICKLY. The primary concern here is toxic overload. When toxins enter you body, either from environmental sources or from additives in prepared foods, your body’s defense mechanism will quickly try to eliminate them through the liver and kidneys. Quite often the overload is such that the body will also hide some of these toxins in your fat cells. When burning fat these toxins are released again into your bloodstream. You can experience toxic overload when you burn fat too fast, as in the first weeks or months of the Atkins diet.

2. THE ATKINS DIET CAUSES FATIGUE. Yes, initially it does - for a couple of reasons. First, switching fuels from glucose to ketones is stressful to the body. It’s a drastic change in your metabolism. You might say it’s similar to mild drug withdrawal. Many people actually do have a “carb addiction” and not even realize it. Secondly, as we learned a minute ago, your body will quite likely be working hard dealing with toxic overload if burning fat too fast, as early in the Atkins diet.

3. THE ATKINS DIET LACKS GOOD NUTRITION. Plant life is the basic nutritional source for all living creatures, including humans. When an animal eats plants, some of the nutrients, such as calcium and other minerals, are sent to different parts of the body where needed. And even if we eat an animal from nose to tail, including the bones, we are still missing some of these nutrients and essential enzymes that are burned up in the metabolic process. Good nutrition suffers when we drastically limit carbs, particularly with the induction phase of the Atkins diet.

Atkins Diet - Is It Right for You?

The Atkins diet has been proven safe, effective and Dr. Atkins’ nutritional concepts are basically sound. This is probably the best choice for fast weight loss for an upcoming wedding or cruise - or to jump start your new life. A lot of water and a GOOD vitamin supplement are strongly recommended with ANY diet, but particularly with the Atkins diet.

The Atkins diet can be adjusted to a less aggressive program if you have a lot of weight to lose and wisely choose to lose the pounds more slowly over a longer period of time. This would be less stressful, much healthier and give the stretched skin a chance to shrink. Skipping the induction phase is one way. You may find this more sustainable over the long haul using the Atkins diet.

One important key to health and success with any low carb diet is to make every carb count by choosing nutrient dense live carbs. These include fresh vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, spinach, and green beans. This is critical where total carbs are very limited - such as with the first two stages of the Atkins diet.

Find out more about Diet and Nutrition at healthandfinesse.com

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March 23, 2007

Weight Loss - The Atkins Diet

Written by Jay Bauder

The Atkins diet, without a doubt, has been the most controversial diet of all time. Seldom does a week go by that the news media does not mention the Atkins diet.

The Atkins diet, first introduced in 1972 by cardiologist Dr. Robert Atkins, is considered the most extreme of the low carb diets. Hundreds of research studies by universities and research teams throughout North America, Europe, and Asia have been conducted on the Atkins diet.

The Atkins diet, as with any diet program, has its good and bad points - but, whatever side you are on, one thing is for sure. Dr. Atkins, and the Atkins diet, has done for the diet and nutrition industry what Mohammad Ali did for the boxing industry. Dr. Atkins created new awareness and introduced new concepts that will forever affect how we look at diets for weight loss as well as diets for health. Although the low carb diet was first written about in the late 1800’s, low carb dieting truly came to life with the birth of the Atkins diet.

Let’s take a look at three good and bad points of the Atkins diet.

Atkins diet - the good stuff.

1. THE ATKINS DIET BURNS FAT FASTER THAN ANY OTHER DIET. The human body is designed to use two different fuels to sustain life - glucose from carbs or ketones from fat. Glucose is the primary fuel, fat the backup. Every weight loss diet is based on the concept of burning fat. Conventional diets generally are designed to burn fat by starvation - by eating fewer calories than you use every day. This causes the body to dip into its reserve energy source - the fat surrounding your abdomen and your thighs first.

The Atkins diet approaches fat burning a different way. It limits the glucose (carb) intake so the body adjusts itself to using ketones (fat) as its primary fuel. Normally within three to four days of starting, your body is literally a fat burning machine on the Atkins diet.

2. THE ATKINS DIET DOESN’T LEAVE YOU HUNGRY. Unlike most conventional diets, the Atkins diet is not based so much on calorie intake. Dr. Atkins does, however, warn that you should not stuff yourself but only eat until satisfied. Also, since you are replacing carbs with protein, and the main protein source is meat, a high percentage of each meal will consist of meat and fat. Meat and fat are more fulfilling and much slower to digest. Not only do you feel more satisfied at dinner, but it will stay with you longer on the Atkins diet.

3. THE ATKINS DIET IS SAFE AND HEALTHY. The vast majority of studies show the Atkins diet to be extremely healthy, in comparison to other conventional weight loss and lifestyle diets. Nearly every study shows the Atkins diet the winner in reducing cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure. In addition, many cases of acid reflux, sleep apnea, and diabetes have either had the symptoms reduced or completely disappear while on the Atkins diet.

Also, you’ll often hear “we have no way of knowing the long term safety of low carb diets”. Fact is, the Atkins diet has been around for over 30 years - longer than most other weight loss programs. Although first written about at the end of the 19th century, the low carb diet has actually been around for centuries prior to that.

How so? The North American Eskimo. Their diet has primarily been no or very low carbs. Yet chronic diseases that are epidemic today, such as diabetes and heart disease, were practically unknown among the Eskimos. At least this was true until they were introduced to sugar and white flour. The Eskimos have been well studied and found to be a healthy and hardy bunch, even after centuries of living on a low carb diet. Yes - a low carb diet much more extreme than even the Atkins diet.

Atkins Diet - The Bad Stuff.

1. THE ATKINS DIET BURNS FAT TOO QUICKLY. The primary concern here is toxic overload. When toxins enter you body, either from environmental sources or from additives in prepared foods, your body’s defense mechanism will quickly try to eliminate them through the liver and kidneys. Quite often the overload is such that the body will also hide some of these toxins in your fat cells. When burning fat these toxins are released again into your bloodstream. You can experience toxic overload when you burn fat too fast, as in the first weeks or months of the Atkins diet.

2. THE ATKINS DIET CAUSES FATIGUE. Yes, initially it does - for a couple of reasons. First, switching fuels from glucose to ketones is stressful to the body. It’s a drastic change in your metabolism. You might say it’s similar to mild drug withdrawal. Many people actually do have a “carb addiction” and not even realize it. Secondly, as we learned a minute ago, your body will quite likely be working hard dealing with toxic overload if burning fat too fast, as early in the Atkins diet.

3. THE ATKINS DIET LACKS GOOD NUTRITION. Plant life is the basic nutritional source for all living creatures, including humans. When an animal eats plants, some of the nutrients, such as calcium and other minerals, are sent to different parts of the body where needed. And even if we eat an animal from nose to tail, including the bones, we are still missing some of these nutrients and essential enzymes that are burned up in the metabolic process. Good nutrition suffers when we drastically limit carbs, particularly with the induction phase of the Atkins diet.

Atkins Diet - Is It Right for You?

The Atkins diet has been proven safe, effective and Dr. Atkins’ nutritional concepts are basically sound. This is probably the best choice for fast weight loss for an upcoming wedding or cruise - or to jump start your new life. A lot of water and a GOOD vitamin supplement are strongly recommended with ANY diet, but particularly with the Atkins diet.

The Atkins diet can be adjusted to a less aggressive program if you have a lot of weight to lose and wisely choose to lose the pounds more slowly over a longer period of time. This would be less stressful, much healthier and give the stretched skin a chance to shrink. Skipping the induction phase is one way. You may find this more sustainable over the long haul using the Atkins diet.

One important key to health and success with any low carb diet is to make every carb count by choosing nutrient dense live carbs. These include fresh vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, spinach, and green beans. This is critical where total carbs are very limited - such as with the first two stages of the Atkins diet.

Jay is the web owner of http://www.weight-loss.biz/weight-loss-online/ Weight Loss Online, a website that provides information and resources on nutrition, weight loss programs, and fitness. You can also visit his website at: http://www.diet-pill.info/diet-program/ for Diet Program

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March 22, 2007

Atkins Diet - Good or Bad? The 6 Steps Analysis

Written by Mickael Kerenterff

The Atkins diet, without a doubt, has been the most controversial diet of all time. Seldom does a week go by that the news media does not mention the Atkins diet.

The Atkins diet, first introduced in 1972 by cardiologist Dr. Robert Atkins, is considered the most extreme of the low carb diets. Hundreds of research studies by universities and research teams throughout North America, Europe, and Asia have been conducted on the Atkins diet.

The Atkins diet, as with any diet program, has its good and bad points - but, whatever side you are on, one thing is for sure. Dr. Atkins, and the Atkins diet, has done for the diet and nutrition industry what Mohammad Ali did for the boxing industry. Dr. Atkins created new awareness and introduced new concepts that will forever affect how we look at diets for weight loss as well as diets for health. Although the low carb diet was first written about in the late 1800’s, low carb dieting truly came to life with the birth of the Atkins diet.

Let’s take a look at three good and bad points of the Atkins diet.

Atkins diet - the good stuff.

1. THE ATKINS DIET BURNS FAT FASTER THAN ANY OTHER DIET. The human body is designed to use two different fuels to sustain life - glucose from carbs or ketones from fat. Glucose is the primary fuel, fat the backup. Every weight loss diet is based on the concept of burning fat. Conventional diets generally are designed to burn fat by starvation - by eating fewer calories than you use every day. This causes the body to dip into its reserve energy source - the fat surrounding your abdomen and your thighs first.

The Atkins diet approaches fat burning a different way. It limits the glucose (carb) intake so the body adjusts itself to using ketones (fat) as its primary fuel. Normally within three to four days of starting, your body is literally a fat burning machine on the Atkins diet.

2. THE ATKINS DIET DOESN’T LEAVE YOU HUNGRY. Unlike most conventional diets, the Atkins diet is not based so much on calorie intake. Dr. Atkins does, however, warn that you should not stuff yourself but only eat until satisfied. Also, since you are replacing carbs with protein, and the main protein source is meat, a high percentage of each meal will consist of meat and fat. Meat and fat are more fulfilling and much slower to digest. Not only do you feel more satisfied at dinner, but it will stay with you longer on the Atkins diet.

3. THE ATKINS DIET IS SAFE AND HEALTHY. The vast majority of studies show the Atkins diet to be extremely healthy, in comparison to other conventional weight loss and lifestyle diets. Nearly every study shows the Atkins diet the winner in reducing cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure. In addition, many cases of acid reflux, sleep apnea, and diabetes have either had the symptoms reduced or completely disappear while on the Atkins diet.

Also, you’ll often hear “we have no way of knowing the long term safety of low carb diets”. Fact is, the Atkins diet has been around for over 30 years - longer than most other weight loss programs. Although first written about at the end of the 19th century, the low carb diet has actually been around for centuries prior to that.

How so? The North American Eskimo. Their diet has primarily been no or very low carbs. Yet chronic diseases that are epidemic today, such as diabetes and heart disease, were practically unknown among the Eskimos. At least this was true until they were introduced to sugar and white flour. The Eskimos have been well studied and found to be a healthy and hardy bunch, even after centuries of living on a low carb diet. Yes - a low carb diet much more extreme than even the Atkins diet.

Atkins Diet - The Bad Stuff.

4. THE ATKINS DIET BURNS FAT TOO QUICKLY. The primary concern here is toxic overload. When toxins enter you body, either from environmental sources or from additives in prepared foods, your body’s defense mechanism will quickly try to eliminate them through the liver and kidneys. Quite often the overload is such that the body will also hide some of these toxins in your fat cells. When burning fat these toxins are released again into your bloodstream. You can experience toxic overload when you burn fat too fast, as in the first weeks or months of the Atkins diet.

5. THE ATKINS DIET CAUSES FATIGUE. Yes, initially it does - for a couple of reasons. First, switching fuels from glucose to ketones is stressful to the body. It’s a drastic change in your metabolism. You might say it’s similar to mild drug withdrawal. Many people actually do have a “carb addiction” and not even realize it. Secondly, as we learned a minute ago, your body will quite likely be working hard dealing with toxic overload if burning fat too fast, as early in the Atkins diet.

6. THE ATKINS DIET LACKS GOOD NUTRITION. Plant life is the basic nutritional source for all living creatures, including humans. When an animal eats plants, some of the nutrients, such as calcium and other minerals, are sent to different parts of the body where needed. And even if we eat an animal from nose to tail, including the bones, we are still missing some of these nutrients and essential enzymes that are burned up in the metabolic process. Good nutrition suffers when we drastically limit carbs, particularly with the induction phase of the Atkins diet.

Atkins Diet - Is It Right for You?

The Atkins diet has been proven safe, effective and Dr. Atkins’ nutritional concepts are basically sound. This is probably the best choice for fast weight loss for an upcoming wedding or cruise - or to jump start your new life. A lot of water and a GOOD vitamin supplement are strongly recommended with ANY diet, but particularly with the Atkins diet.

The Atkins diet can be adjusted to a less aggressive program if you have a lot of weight to lose and wisely choose to lose the pounds more slowly over a longer period of time. This would be less stressful, much healthier and give the stretched skin a chance to shrink. Skipping the induction phase is one way. You may find this more sustainable over the long haul using the Atkins diet.

One important key to health and success with any low carb diet is to make every carb count by choosing nutrient dense live carbs. These include fresh vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, spinach, and green beans. This is critical where total carbs are very limited - such as with the first two stages of the Atkins diet.

Author: Mickael Kerenterff. For more information, please visit my website at http://www.SuccessfulWeightLossSecretsRevealed.com where you can grab a free e-course about Weight Loss Secrets. You will discover How to Get Rid of those Stubborn Body Fats, Lose Weight Easily, and Overall Maintain a Healthy, Sexy Body!

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March 14, 2007

How the Atkins Diet Works

Written by Callie Armstrong

The Atkins Diet became controversial as it raised mixed views amongst health experts and dieticians. The diet is based on the belief that “low fat is not the only way to go for a healthier lifestyle and weight control.” Many experts are critical of this new low-carb diets but have not totally discounted the Atkins diet as an effective method of losing weight. It opposed what all diet plans teach, that by loading up on lots of fat and protein, one would lose weight effectively.

The Atkins diet is designed to be a lifetime weight management program, it is suitable (but not restricted) to those who prefer eating animal protein. The diet is an effective and safe alternative for people who have failed on a low-fat diet. This diet encourages you to eliminate sugar from your diet as this contributes to a slower metabolism, eaters are allowed plenty of fat and protein instead.

There are four phases to the Atkins diet:

*Phase 1 (Induction) you restrict carbohydrate consumption to 20 grams each day, obtaining carbohydrate primarily from salad and other non-starchy vegetables.

*Phase 2 (Ongoing Weight Loss), you increase carbohydrate in the form of nutrient-dense and fibre-rich foods by 20 grams daily in the first week and then 30 grams daily in the next week until you gradually lose weight. Then you subtract 5 grams of carbohydrate from your daily intake so that you continue sustained weight loss.

*Phase 3, known as ‘Pre-Maintenance’, you make the transition from weight loss to weight maintenance by increasing the daily carbohydrate intake in 10 gram increments each week.

*Phase 4 (Lifetime Maintenance), you select from a wide variety of foods while controlling carbohydrate intake to ensure weight maintenance.

Diet experts assert that it is too early to adopt this low-carb diet, however they do concede that it is worth exploring. One main criticism of the Atkins diet is that it does entail frequent meat consumption, this means high protein intake that pose risks of illnesses. On the other hand, followers argue that the program is suited for different preferences and metabolisms. After the first phase (known a which loads one on high protein intake, increasing the ‘Induction phase’) the Atkins diet plan can be modified.

.

Callie Armstrong is a writer for http://www.AllergyHero.com. Her insights on dieting, exercise and health can be read at http://www.body4beach.com

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March 12, 2007

The Low-Down On Atkins, South Beach, and the Zone Diets

Written by Craig Rowe

With all the low carb diets out there it can be difficult to ascertain which one is right for you, and even what the differences between all of them are! Low carb diets are all the rage, and they have proven to be very effective. But, which one do you choose? Which one is right for you? Are they all the same? These are all fair questions, and we’ll attempt to clarify the differences in all three of these popular diets so that you can choose the one that is right for you! The Atkins Diet The book is an affordable $14.95 for the paperback version, making this program affordable, for starters. The Atkins diet was also the first and the most successful low carb diet, which is attractive for those that want a diet with a history. Basically, the Atkins diet is all about high protein, high fat, low carb, and low sugar. If you are worried about being able to prepare the foods and snacks, Atkins offers a whole line of controlled carb snacks and has Atkins brand foods like Endulge, as well as shakes and pasta side dishes. Atkins is so popular that it has major national restaurants such as Subway and even TGI Friday’s offering Atkins approved items on their menus. The high fat content of the diet has earned the Atkins diet a lot of criticism because the large amount of red meat, dairy products, and butter leaves many with higher LDL cholesterol rates, leading to clogged arteries. This may or may not be true for you, but what is true is the first phase of the diet allows no more than 20 grams of carbohydrates per day! No fruit, bread, grains, starchy veggies, or caffeine! Eventually you’ll be able to eat some of these things again, but giving it all up can be rough! This is definitely not a good diet pick for vegetarians but is great for those that love red meat, fish, eggs, and salad. South Beach The South Beach Diet book will run about $25 and is considered to be much like the Atkins diet, but has been successful because it is easier to understand, better organized and simply a better read. The South Beach Diet is also more flexible than the Atkins diet, which many find appealing. It’s true that The South Beach Diet also has a two week induction period where you will eliminate most carbs, but it is low in saturated fats and high in fiber. The problem with South Beach is that it isn’t really the healthiest program, though you will lose weight. The problem is that it encourages the consumption of processed foods, which isn’t good for long term health. While the induction period doesn’t allow alcohol, fatty meats, pasta, sugar, sugary vegetables, fruits and fruit juices, cookies, potatoes, milk and ice cream, healthy carbs will be allowed back into the diet in subsequent phases. South Beach is very specific about what should and should not be eaten, which is different than the Atkins Diet. If you love pasta, this isn’t the diet for you, but if you are a lover of eggs, lean meats, fish, nuts, and ricotta cheese you’ll love this diet! The Zone The Zone has been around since 1995, and is a diet that is composed of 40%25 carbs, 30%25 fat, and 30%25 protein. The diet was originally created to increase the performance of athletes and will require a lot of math to figure how much of each thing you will need to eat! The Zone doesn’t allow high glycemic index carbs such as white bread and sugary goods as well as egg yolks, deli meats, and fatty red meats. It’s been said that Jennifer Aniston and Renee Zellweger are firm believers of the Zone. This simply is not a good diet for you if you want a simple diet with simple instructions, but works for those that want a very obsessive compulsive diet that will allow you to control every portion exactly as prescribed. Simply put, the Zone Diet is very complicated!

For more articles and information on Atkins, South Beach and the Zone diets visit http://www.newdiets.net.

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March 10, 2007

Atkins Diet Plan - What�s The Catch

Written by Martin Smith

The Atkins diet Plan breakfast can usually composed of eggs strips of bacon and coffee. A snack might include coffee with cream, and chunks of cheese. A huge steak fried in butter could be dinner. Doesn’t this sound really good? It seems very tempting but there is a catch.

In the beginning you will have to give up most carbs, such as breads, potatoes, pasta, rice and other things like chocolate, cake, some fruits. In theory, when carbs are eliminated from the diet, the body burns stored fat. Weight loss is quicker because fat burns more calories than carbs.

Stable blood sugar levels help you to feel fuller thereby damping your appetite. The Induction is the first phase of the Atkins diet, which you follow for at least two weeks. Only 20 grams of carbs a day, but you can eat lots of red meat, chicken, fish, eggs cream and butter. That you want.

During this phase, your body learns to burn fat and not carbs. The ongoing weight loss phase is the second stage. Add 5 grams of carbs a day until you get to your critical carbohydrate level for losing weight. How many carbs can YOU eat and still lose between 1 and 3 pounds a week? Bread, pasta rice and potatoes are still taboo.

The pre-maintenance or third phase is started when you have only 5-10 pounds left to lose in order to reach your goal weight. Yes! Now you get to add 10 grams a day for one week, to your carb intake, to help your body adjust to the addition of carbs to your diet, and to the final phase of the diet.

Lifetime maintenance, phase 4, teaches you ways to stay motivated. Your carb intake is limited to 90 grams in a day. You will be eating low carbs for the rest of your life. Some doctors have expressed concern about the long tern effects of the Atkins and other low carb plans.

High saturated fat consumption may cause an increased risk of heart disease. The lack of certain nutrients in this diet could cause future health problems. The limited intake of calcium could possibly put you at risk for Osteoporosis. The low antioxidant nutrients could lead to cancer, heart disease and premature aging.

The Atkins diet is boring in the Induction phase. Vegetarians have a hard time with Atkins, particularly in the early stages, due to the limited amount of vegetables, nuts seeds and beans. The Atkins diet presents an image of good health from a proper diet. Some are concerned that once you go off the diet the weight comes back quickly.

The very low carbs in this diet could cause ketosis which can be dangerous for diabetics. The high cholesterol of this diet may cause constipation and heart disease because of the high fat content. This diet, low in fruits and veggies is consequently low in antioxidants that fight cancer. The Atkins plan is that it’s not intended for long term use and has serious side effects.

The Atkins Plan works, it is that simple. Weight loss is rapid and you can eat as much protein and fat, as you would like. The carbs eliminated by the Atkins diet can cause a loss of antioxidants which are known to prevent some cancers.

This high fat, high protein diet can increase the risk of elevated cholesterol and heart disease. This Diet really works, although some believe you can’t stay on it long term. If you go off the diet or cheat , you will begin to re-gain the weight. Once you start eating a more normal diet the initial weight loss will return.

As with any diet check with a physician-to make sure you are healthy to begin with. The Atkins diet, some believe, is not for long term use and that it poses some serous health risks. If you are overweight, you are already at risk for heart disease and other health problems, and Atkins could increase those risks.

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Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice on a variety of subjects. For more information on
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March 9, 2007

The Atkins Diet: Is It Still Worthwhile or Worthless?

Written by Ellen Daniels

By now, almost everyone has heard of the Atkins diet. This is the diet that promotes weight loss through the consumption of foods low in carbohydrates and quite high in fat and protein contents, but not necessarily low in calories.

It was the brain-child of Dr. R. C. Atkins who claimed that it would initiate a greater weight loss than a conventional, low calorie diet composed of a “balance” of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. In addition, it was supposed to be friendly to those prone to diabetes because of the low intake of carbohydrate; it might reduce the body’s need for insulin. This diet concept is diametrically opposed to that used for years by traditional nutritionists and medical specialists.

Most experts initial response to this diet was that it might not be safe because years of scientific evidence suggested that high fat intake would surely raise serum cholesterol, thus increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

What ensued were numerous heated debates in print and on television about the worthiness of this diet. Unfortunately, most of the battle lines were drawn on shaky grounds because they were based on age-old dogma, and lacked serious scientific inquiry. Fortunately, this was about to change. Some results of very important research are now beginning to appear in the scientific literature. Hopefully, this new information will eventually determine unequivocally which side is right.

One of these studies was reported in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2003. The investigators’ aim was to conduct a controlled experiment to determine the differences in weight loss of both obese men and women who consumed either the basic low carbohydrate Atkins diet or a conventional diet of reduced total calories. The study lasted for one year. Besides weight loss, a number of other tests also were conducted, including blood sugar, blood cholesterol, HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol), insulin levels, and blood pressure.

The results were interesting and different than most traditional nutritionists would have expected. As Dr. Atkins had claimed all along, after 3 months, the volunteers who ate the Atkins diet lost 7-10%25 of their original body weight while those who ate the conventional low-calorie diet only lost 3-5%25 of their original weight. After 6 months, the results were similar to those at 3 months; however, after one year, those on the Atkins diet had regained enough weight so that differences in weight loss between the two diets were not significant.

Another interesting result supported the view of the traditional nutritionists in that total serum cholesterol was increased about 3%25 while those fed the conventional diet had reduced their cholesterol about 5%25. However, the “good” cholesterol was increased about 20%25 in those consuming the Atkins diet but only about 3%25 in those consuming the conventional diet. Neither diet affected blood sugar, blood pressure, or insulin levels, although the insulin levels of those consuming the Atkins diet tended to be lower than of those consuming the low calorie conventional diet.

The final results of the study suggested that volunteers who consume the Atkins diet may initially lose weight faster than those consuming the conventional diet, but after a long period of consuming the diets, the differences may be lost. The investigators suggested that a longer and larger study be carried out before conclusive assessments are made about the benefits or dangers of consuming low-carbohydrate, high-fat, and high-protein diets.

Ellen Daniels offers expert advice and articles on all aspects of Laser Hair Removal. You can read about the latest technology for Laser Hair Removal at http://www.LaserHairRemovalDetails.com Technorati , , ,

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