Atkins Diet Food Pyramid

The Atkins diet food pyramid looks much different than the USDA Food Pyramid. On the Atkins diet, the best way to dieting success is to stay within the acceptable foods of each stage. The Induction phase is the most restrictive, but it only lasts two weeks.

The base of the Atkins pyramid consists of protein sources such as eggs, beef, pork, chicken, fish, including shellfish, and soy products. On a daily basis, your diet should consist primarily of these foods.

The second tier has vegetables like salad greens, broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus and spinach. These low carbohydrate foods should be combined with the proteins for a balanced diet and a more successful weight loss.

The third tier contains berries of all varieties, pears and avocado. Fruits should be used on an occasional basis, and only after the Induction phase of the Atkins diet.

The fourth tier consists of vegetable and seed oils, cheese, dairy, nuts and legumes, which are to be used sparingly. The "good oils" such as Extra Virgin Olive oil and Organic Coconut oil are recommended.

The top tier consists of whole grain foods which should be used only occasionally because they are high in carbohydrate grams.

There are Atkins diet cookbooks as well as other low-carbohydrate cookbooks published that useful for preparing your own meals.

There are several Atkins diet online programs available. Some are free and some have a small monthly fee. The programs may require you to register and then they provide you with personal weekly menu plans based your food choices and carbohydrate gram level.

Read labels carefully, because some products will claim "low carbohydrate" on the label, even though they do contain some sugars. Carrying a list of acceptable foods with you is a good idea. It is easier to stay on the plan by using your own list of foods a guide.

The Atkins diet offers a wide variety of foods allowing you make better food choices and stay on the diet for long term success.