Atkins Diet

[swav]

I have been on the atkins diet for over 6 months (4 years ago) and am strongly 
considering doing it again, but permanently.  The atkins diet as designed is a 
permanent life style change, but once you reach your target weight, you have 
low ccarbs, but still some carbs.

I know over 10 people who have changed over to an atkins way of eating 
permanently (or at least for the last 5 years or more) they have lost anywhere 
from 20-90 pounds and kept it off.  I gained back the 40 pounds I lost because 
I started eating whatever I wanted again.

For people like me, atkins is highly preferrable to weight watchers, because I 
can eliminate foods, I absolutely cannot limit quantities.  My appetite has no 
shutoff switch.  When my carbs are low enough, however, I'm not as hungry due 
to lower blood glucose level swings.  Those who have done atkins and followed 
it have lower cholesterol than before and lose weight even though they are 
eating more fat and more calories.  i have done a lot of research on this 
diet, because I take my health seriously.  the reason, is because when carbs 
are low enough, the body does not metabolize the fat, and instead it passes 
through the body ina  process called ketosis.  It is true that the huge weight 
loss in the first week is mostly water.  Atkins properly followed results in a 
loss of 1-2 pounds per week.  The point is for people who like to eat A LOT 
and are unwilling or unable to give that up, atkins is an attractive option.

It is important to note that the atkins diet is a potent diuretic (makes you 
pee a lot.)  If you don't drink a lot of water you will get dehydrated.  Also 
its important to watch caffeine consumption.  (ie:  brewing coffee with water 
joe while on atkins, then eating a quarter pound of chocolate covered espresso 
beans while cramming for finals = very bad idea)  trust me on this one.

I also experienced substantial muscle gain while on atkins, as I had upped my 
protein consumption.

I'm also beleive it or not a semi-vegetarian.  Atkins for me is eggs, veggies, 
seafood, cheese, and nuts.  Macadmaias are great on the diet.  :)  and of 
course sugar free jello.

Any other questions feel free to email me off list.

Josh