Pros and Cons of the Atkins Diet

The Atkins diet is very popular diet program that has been around for well over twenty years. There are as many different opinions on the virtues of low carbohydrate diets like Atkins and other similar programs.

Low carbohydrate diets are considered unhealthy by some dietary experts, while others claim these diets work, but only on a short-term basis.

However, there are also thousands of individuals who have found success with the Atkins diet. Many followers of the Atkins plan will testify, from personal experience, that the low carbohydrate diet works and that it is an effective means of keeping weight off.

Some believe that the butter, oils and fatty meats, in the Atkins diet are unhealthy. It does seem like too many dietary fats, until you study the Atkins guidelines and realize that the diet focuses on good fats. Extra virgin olive oil and other healthy fats are emphasized.

There is also criticism that the Atkins plan does not encourage enough exercise. This is an unfair claim because there is a lot of attention focused on exercise in the Atkins program. The Atkins plan recommends both light, and vigorous exercise, based on individual ability.

The beginning dieter is encouraged to start with is lighter exercise, walking, dancing, or rebounding a mini-trampoline are just a few examples. Muscle building exercises, weight lifting, running, swimming and skiing, are recommended for more fit individuals.

Some Atkins critics say that the diet cannot be maintained for a long period of time. Others will admit that Atkins is effective on a short-term basis, but deny that the lifestyle can be maintained for a significant period of time.

Many of the foods on the Atkins plan are forbidden on other programs.

The Atkins plan does allow rich foods, balanced with low carbohydrate vegetables, and salads that produce appetite-suppressing effects.

Some critics claim Atkins causes constipation and bad breath, this may occur, especially in the first phase of the diet. Should this occur, drinking more water, and plenty of other fluids, will normally take care of both problems rather quickly.

Atkins is an easy diet to maintain, especially if you enjoy eating meat, cheese, eggs, and other proteins. If you are considering Atkins, there are numerous books, recipes and other online products available to help you make the right choice.

Since there are pros and cons to almost every diet program, you should always seek medical advice before making any dietary changes.