The Atkin's Diet focuses on eliminating carbohydrates in the diet and ingesting more protein in its place.
This program has become very popular among western dieters for several reasons: there are no special shakes, supplements or pre-made meals to purchase so it is inexpensive; the diet has been tested and approved as a way to lose weight quickly, which provides other health benefits as a result of losing weight including disease prevention, lower insulin levels and increased energy.
So what is the science behind the Atkin's diet? In the human body, carbohydrates are the first thing that the body metabolizes because it uses carbohydrates as its main source of fuel.
When you deprive your body of those fueling carbs it starts to break up your stored fat cells to use the glucose inside.
So in effect, by eating only protein you are switching your body from glucose burning mode to stored fat burning mode which causes you to lose weight fast.
Once we know what the plan is all about and how it works inside of our body we must consider the draw backs and the possibility to maintain results long term.
For those looking to maintain their weight loss a diet will never work, only a lifestyle change will accomplish this.
Of course you can lose weight with this particular diet but you must remain on the plan for as long as you want to maintain your weight.
In addition to the ability to keep the weight off, we must consider possible health effects this program may cause.
Followers may experience bad breath (due to increased production of ketone), headaches, nausea, increased cholesterol and high levels of protein may cause damage to the kidneys and other vital organs.
Just be sure to do the research to make an informed decision and always consult your physician before taking on any weight loss program.