June 1st, 2011
Why New Atkins Diet
The new Atkins diet is a boon for those people who want to shed those extra kilos and want to have a flat belly but without following those strict diet regimens. The original plan by Dr Atkins was definitely a hit and rage with the people but was later on considered bad by those who thought that incorporation of fats and carbohydrates was not in the correct order. The basic plan believed in high protein and high fat but the carbohydrate stuff was absolutely missing. In the New Atkins plan, the dieters had the privilege to have those forbidden carbohydrates and still lose weight.
How Does The New Atkins Diet Work?
In short, under this plan, there is burning of fat instead of storage. Also since there is stabilizing of body sugar level, there is no craving for undesired foods. What was noticed with the basic plan was that total emission of carbohydrates could lead to untoward effect like low energy level that prompted the dieters to then munch on unwanted forms of carbohydrates. This part was overcome in New Atkins Plan.
Let us see the physiology behind it- it is the refined and starchy forms of carbohydrates that do badly for health. Pasta, breads and cakes need to be avoided since they lead to high blood sugar level that in turn leads to release of excessive amounts of insulin that would cause storage of fat. But in New Atkins diet only good carbohydrates are permitted that keep the energy levels of users at a good level and also doesn’t let increase the blood sugar to higher levels.
In new Atkins diet as far as carb level is concerned, the dieter should calculate the carb value of each supplement. This is essential since net carbohydrate consumption is of utmost importance. This is not at all difficult since the food packaging provides the details of carbohydrates present in the item and also the new carbohydrate counter book make it very easy for them.
New Atkins Diet – Proteins And Fats
There is a great emphasis on protein intake. The diet recommends about 6 oz in every meal. This is so because proteins are the building blocks that keep you satiated and serve many more roles. Protein is high in animal products, animal by products, nuts etc. Coming to fat, the good forms of carbohydrates are very much necessary for good growth since they are a back up energy source. The concept behind New Atkins diet is that, by keeping carbohydrate intake at minimal level you can enjoy the fat without feeling guilty.
New Atkins Diet Phase
Depending upon the person’s wish, he or she can manipulate the new Atkins diet to a level. For e.g if the dieter wants to lose weight in a gradual manner, he can follow the all 4 phases as per the directions. In case he is in a hurry and wants to get rid of the flab at earliest, he can follow the first phase for a prolonged time. The four phases of new Atkins diet are-
1. The restrictive induction phase
2. The ongoing weight loss phase
3. Pre- maintenance phase and
4. Lifelong maintenance
The principle is that as the phase progresses the net carbs included in your diet increases gradually. For e.g. in the first phase, the net carbohydrates permitted are to the maximum 20 g a day. This induction phase can continue till the the first two weeks or even till six months depending upon how fast the user wants to reduce the weight as said earlier. In the second phase, 5 g of net carbs are added every week. In the third phase, 10 g of net
carbs are added every week. It is this pre- maintainence phase when the ideal weight is reached. The plan can be followed without much difficulty but you have to remember that what is of utmost importance is to calculate the net carb value of each item and you do not have any relaxation for that.
But as it is said, “nothing is either white or black but is grey”, same is true for new Atkins diet, the critics have their own thoughts and decisions about this diet. They say that there are definitely disadvantages. Let us see that-:
The New Atkins Diet – Pros And Cons
1. Atkins Diet Advantages:
-It is better as it favors leaner meat while excludes fry ups.
-Though in the latter stages only, fruits and vegetables have found a place in NEW ATKINS DIET.
-There are more chances of keeping your ideal weight maintained for a longer period of time.
-Rapid weight loss.
2. Atkins Diet Disadvantages:
-There is a restriction or elimination of wide variety of eating items like fruits, starch etc.
-Users experience low level of energy since carbohydrate restriction is there.
-Here cheese is permitted that may lead to high cholesterol and high BP.
All said and done, the New Atkins Diet has its own huge fan following and people find it worth trying.