The Atkins Diet

The Philosophy

To burn off stored body fat, limit consumption of carbohydrates to no more than 20 grams per day (i.e. the equivalent of one plain muffin). Diet principles are based on the book "Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution''.

Our View

Does it meet the basic food groups? No. This diet includes only 1.5 food groups out of 4: no grain products, very little fruits and vegetables (only salads are suggested), some dairy products and plenty of meats & alternates.

What about balance & variety? Appropriate balance and variety in food choices are not recommended here. Overall, this diet promotes large quantities of proteins and saturated (animal) fats.

Risks? Very poor intake of dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals: B vitamins, anti-oxidants, potassium & calcium, just to name a few. Also, this diet does not meet total daily energy (calorie) requirements. The body needs the appropriate amount of energy, even for weight loss.

Our Comments

• Advocates of the Atkins diet overlook the fact that the brain needs a minimum of 150g of carbohydrate intake per day. In this case, the suggested intake of 20g of carbohydrates per day is dangerously low.
• On this type of diet, the body may degrade lean muscle mass to make up for its requirements in carbohydrates especially since fat cannot generate the form of carbohydrate (i.e. glucose) that the brain needs. To spare and protect lean muscle mass, the body needs appropriate amounts of carbohydrates and 1gram of protein per kg of body weight. We don't want to lose lean muscle mass: it gives us power and keeps us healthy longer.
• Drastic restrictions of carbohydrate intake leads to the production of chemicals called ketones. These are released into the bloodstream and may cause headaches, dizzy spells, fatigue, nausea and bad breath. If these symptoms occur, these are definite signs that there is something wrong.
• This diet is very high in protein choices and not based on lean choices of meats and alternates but fatty ones. This could present as an increased risk of heart disease.
• Large quantities of protein may also overwork the kidneys and cause damage.
• Eliminating food groups from the diet is not recommended. Remember that each food group plays a specific role in nourishing our bodies. Losing weight is important for many reasons but never at the price of our health.