Atkins - A Typical Low Carb Diet
The Atkins Diet
Description A low carb diet developed by Dr. Robert Atkins who died in 2003. The diet is heavily promoted in the press, on TV and online. The plan was franchised and the franchising arm of the Atkins organization filed for Chap. 11 bankruptcy in 2005. That entitiy has been reorganized and licenses proprietary branding through it's affiliates. Promises Quick weight loss by the elimination of refined carbohydrates (flour, sugar and HF corn syrup) to switch the body's metabolism from burning glucose to burning stored body fat (ketosis). Promoted By Atkins Nutritionals, Inc. Among the product line is an online store which sells a product line of snacks and shakes. Medical Profession Comments Freedman et al, in the scientific journal Obesity Research concluded that low-carb dieters' initial advantage in weight loss was due to increased water loss, and after the initial period, produce similar fat loss to other diets with similar caloric intake. The American Heart Association is critical of low carb diets generally. Cost In the top 5 of 10 diets studied by Forbes Magazine and 80% higher than the American average. Summary A typical low carb diet with relatively high cost for purchased foods. |