Dieting has become one of the most popular methods to control one’s weight. In addition to weight control issues, certain illnesses such as diabetes may prompt an individual to follow a low carbohydrate diet. The Atkins diet is a low carb diet formulated by Dr. Robert Atkins who was an American physician and cardiologist. This Atkins diet was based on a diet which was published in the Journal of American Medical Association which Dr. Atkins himself used to treat his obesity.

The Atkins diet which is more officially known as Atkins Nutritional Approach contradicted the existing nutritional theories of that time stating that certain unidentified aspects of western eating habits caused obesity. Furthermore, Dr. Atkins attributed obesity to the consumption of refined carbohydrates such as sugar, flour and corn syrups that contain high fructose amounts. The Atkins diet works by limiting the carbohydrate intake of the body and in turn replacing the metabolism of the body from burning glucose to burning the stored amounts of fat as bodily fuel. This process which is known as ketosis is achieved by lowering the insulin levels of the body through lowering the blood glucose levels.

Four phases are included in the Atkins diet and they should be followed strictly to achieve the desired results. Induction is the first step of the diet plan where an individual restrict their daily carbohydrate intake to 20 net grams or less. This is generally recommended for two weeks and foods should only be chosen from a list of given foods including moderate amounts of meats, fish, poultry and eggs. In addition, salad vegetables, butter and vegetable oils are also allowed in the diet. However, alcohol is prohibited and even caffeine is only allowed in moderation. This phase of the Atkins diet is intended to make the body rapidly go into a ketosis state and therefore, the most significant amount of weight loss can be seen in this period. The other three phases of the Atkins diet such as ongoing weight loss, pre maintenance and lifetime maintenance includes methods to gradually increase the carbohydrate intake of the body while preventing weight gain.

The Atkins diet has gained immense popularity mainly during 2003 and 2004 despite the controversies surrounding it. According to the statistics one in every eleven adults in North America followed the diet during its height of popularity. However, certain scientists and researches claim that although the diet may aid weight loss, it may increase the risk of other diseases such as heart disease.

The Atkins diet is regarded by many as one of the most effective forms of weight loss techniques. However, as any method, it has its share of supporters and critics.