Is it possible to stay long term on the Atkins diet - has anyone done that?
62Don't Stay On The Adkins Too Long
The Atkins was really popular about 4 years ago, but with the realization that carbs in moderation are good for you for a balanced diet the diet has faded out a bit... but I will tell you as a figure competitor (being forced to do low carb, high protein diets) and even better as a Bio graduate (I did my Senior research on Atkins) I will tell you that staying on the diet for longer than 12 weeks isn't a great idea.
Keeping up the carb deficiency will have pounds flying off but your body is in a starvation mode and your brain needs sugar! Plus you will feel tired, look tired, cranky and people won't want to be around you.
Your body screams for carbs for energy and if you really want the best diet plan, then look for a clean eating plan which eliminates processed foods, simple sugars, and a few other "holding you back from fitness goals" foods.
So... if you are doing the atkins diet... stick to no longer than 12 weeks. And plan on gaining some weight back quickly since you're body will not want to stay in starvation mode. Also make sure the protein you eat during is lean and optimal: turkey, chicken, fish, and bison are top choices.
Hopefully this helps answer your questions. If you want more on eating clean you can check out several sites... I will post a video I did recently as well as some great links.
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whole wheat isn't an issue... you need complex carbs. Your body needs them and if you deprive yourself too long you'll crave them more. Great carbs to stick to that have a low GI include oatmeal, quinoa, wheat germ... try to stick to fruits that are less sugar (sounds weird) but things like bananas, berries (are awesome), pears, apples, etc. Avoid dry fruits and things like pineapple, mangos and such that are high in fructose.
Other great snack options are nuts... research shows that people that eat just a 1/2 handful a day eat less total throughout. Plus they are packed with protein and healthy fats. Make sure each meal is rich is protein taht will have you feeling fuller longer
Thanks again Taylor. So I had oatmeal with frozen bluberries in it and two egg whites and one whole egg scrambled for breakfast today. You hubs are really great - keep up the good work. It seems that you don't just talk the talk but walk the walk !
Thanks Taylor for the great info on why the Atkins is NOT healthy. I have been generally following the South Beach, which seems pretty much in keeping with what you are discussing. I can say I feel a lot better and have been steady in my weight loss without feeling tired or cranky and no cravings YIIPPEEE!
cpa says:
10 months ago
Wow - great hub and fast answer ! THANK YOU !
The reason I started was that I noticed that sugars ( even fruits were a trigger to binge eating ) which under Atkins stopped. Can you suggest a diet that will be healthy without those triggers such as sugars and processed flours ( I think even whole wheat is an issue ).