Atkins diet

[banjosister]

I am contemplating this diet has anyone done it?

Any views or guidance would be appreciated.

Many thanx

BB xx

[SRH]

Mixed feelings on this one. I have lost weight using it but have had to up my carb intake within three days every time because it's made me ill (diarrhea, zero energy, light headed). I've done it in short stints each time, just for a few days to lose a few pounds before a big event. the weight does drop off quickly, but suspect this is partially due to losing water (your mouth is dry all the time and you get ridiculously thirsty - like being diabetic). If you are serious about it then it's essential to buy the book and not just wing it.

I've heard the South Beach Diet is a more up to date version and less extreme.

But I have to say that any diet that cuts out fruit and veg (even for just a couple of weeks) is dangerous.

I wouldn't consider it as a long-term plan because God knows what effect doing it will have on your body.

Cutting out starchy carbs is a less extreme approach (again for a short-term diet) so perhaps consider trying cutting out bread, pasta and potatoes and switching to brown rice with plenty of lean protein and veg is a better idea.

Sorry I can't give it the big thumbs up, but I know of noone, myself included, who has been able to tolerate the Atkins diet for more than a few days without feeling very ill.

[banjosister]

Hey SRH,

Thanx for that. I have just finished the book. I have about 10Lbs to lose and I thought it would be great to shift it within a month if not less. It sounds all very convincing and obviously it's what I want to hear, which is why I am asking for people's personal experience.

Have you done it and taken the vitamins & minerals he suggests as well?

My Dad lost a lot of weight on it, he's coming down at the weekend so I shall be asking his views too.

Thank you for taking the time to answer.

xx

[taliesin238]

I was on the Atkins for 5 years and it was fantastic for me!! Ive moved back to my parents house since which has made me not able to continue!! I have now come to realise that it is not really that good for you as people still tend to eat mainly red meat, eggs, cheeses etc which are ssooooo full of fat and colesterol. I would highly recomend the GI diet!! With this one you have much more choice on what you can eat, you dont eat loads of fat, and you feel fantastic. It is basically the Atkins diet but done the correct way!! Ive been on GI now for 3 years and would not go back!!
Hope this helps!

[banjosister]

Hey Taliesin,

Thanx for that, I think I will look these other diets up. I have been gradually putting on weight for the last three years. I am not exactly fat but would like to get back down to 9stone. As quickly as possible!

Many thanx

[SRH]

No problem Banjo. For just 10lbs it's worth a try - could certainly shift that in a month - and as said above, just remember to cut back on the meat and cream when you go back to normal eating after. Good luck!

[taliesin238]

SRH ive never read up on the beach diet but ive heard its really good!! Will look it up soon!! Cheers!!

[SRH]

Doh, forgot to answer you properly! Yes, you definitely need the vitamins!

[Whoever]

I've tried it briefly and did lose a little weight but to be honest my body didn't really feel comfortable as I normally eat a lot of fruit and vegetables and many of my favourites were banned. . At this time of year especially I think you need these to build up your immune system against infections. I also felt very bloated.
I think eating smaller portions and only tiny amounts of carbohydrates might be better and leave you feeling less uncomfortable.