The Atkins diet has been a popular choice since its inception in 1963, introducing many people to a low carbohydrate diet plan to help them achieve their weight loss goals. A low-carb diet, such as Atkins, encourages you to choose your food groups and types carefully instead of counting calories. 

Founded by Dr Robert Atkins in 1963, the Atkins diet plan has proven very successful with a huge following. It’s been said that 1 in 11 Americans were following the diet at its peak, including celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Kim Kardashian and Rob Lowe. If you’ve been wondering what it’s like to follow a low-carb diet, here’s some insight on how it all works.

Is a low carb diet good for you?

Following a low-carb diet such as the Atkins plan can satisfy your hunger while making sure you’re burning fat. A lot of carbohydrates are complex sugars, and if you eat too many of them, your body will store them as fat. Lowering your intake of carbohydrates will help the body to burn fat instead of sugar, which can help you to feel fuller and may result in weight loss.

There have been many studies and a lot of research over the years that suggest lowering the number of carbohydrates in your diet can be good for you, but it’s important to remember that your body still needs carbohydrates to function. The Atkins diet helps you to introduce carbohydrates in a low, healthy amount so your body is still getting the nutrients it needs. 

Choosing an Akins diet

When the Atkins diet first launched it consisted of just one plan, but now it has developed and there are 3 different plans to suit your individual goals. Depending on how much weight you want to lose, you can choose from Atkins 20, Atkins 40 and Atkins 100.

Atkins 20

The Atkins 20 plan is perfect for those who have a lot of weight to lose, which Atkins classes as 40 pounds or more. This is based on the original diet, and is also suitable for those who are pre-diabetic or diabetic.

It works in 4 stages, starting with consuming a very small amount of cars and gradually increasing it to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Atkins 40

If you have less than 40 pounds to lose or you’d like a bigger choice of food in your diet plan, Atkins 40 could work for you. You’ll begin Atkins 40 consuming more carbs from the start, and gradually increasing the amount as you reach your weight loss goals. This plan offers a much more flexible approach.

Atkins 100

The Atkins 100 diet plan is ideal for those who are looking to maintain their weight, with a greater variety of food with little restriction. It’s based on eating 100g of carbs per day, helping you to follow a healthier lifestyle for longer.

How long does it take to see results?

The general rule of thumb with any weight loss plan is this; the more you have to lose, the quicker you will lose it in the beginning as your body reacts to your change in eating habits. The average person can expect to lose 1-2 lbs per week but results can vary, and your weight loss will also be affected by other lifestyle choices including exercise. 

Other results you may notice is an increase in energy throughout the day and feeling fuller, which you might experience in the first 1-2 weeks. This can have a positive effect on your memory, brain power and general mental clarity.