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Diet Plan - Atkins Diet

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A Review of the Atkins Diet Plan

By: Kathy Joyce


Posted Monday, August 20, 2007



The Atkins diet first appeared in the 1970s and has grown popularity in recent years in response to the low-fat diet craze. As dieters had trouble with low-fat plans, they searched for a new solution and Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution book found a new audience.

The Atkins diet has become very popular, but what are the basic principles of the Atkins diet?

Atkins Diet - Basic Principles

The Atkins diet is based on a theory of why we get fat. According to Dr. Atkins, the over-consumption of carbohydrates and simple sugars leads to weight gain. The way your body processes the carbohydrates you eat have more to do with your waistline than the amount of fat or calories that you consume.

In his book, Atkins outlines a phenomenon called "insulin resistance." He theorizes that many overweight people have cells that do not work correctly. When you eat excess carbohydrates and sugar, your body notices that sugar levels are elevated. Insulin is released from the pancreas in order to store sugar as glycogen in the liver and muscle cells for extra energy later on.

However, your body can only store so much glycogen at once. As soon as your body reaches its limit for glycogen storage, the excess carbohydrates are stored as fat. This happens to everyone who eats too many carbohydrates. However, insulin resistant individuals have an even harder time of using and storing excess carbohydrates. The more insulin that your body is exposed to, the more resistant it becomes. Overtime, the pancreas releases more insulin and cells become insulin resistant. The cells are trying to protect themselves from the toxic effects of high insulin. They create less glycogen and more fat.

As a result, insulin resistant people put on weight. The carbohydrates get converted into fat instead of energy. Other side effects include tiredness and low blood sugar.

The best solution for insulin resistant people is a low carbohydrate diet such as the Atkins Diet. You will have more energy, lose weight and look good.

copyright August 2007

Kathy Joyce can help you to find a new slimmer, fitter and healthier you with valuable tips and resources on weight loss, fitness and nutrition. http://www.weightlossdietingtips.com

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