Atkins Diet

A detailed Summary of Atkins Diet


The purpose of the article was to examine the effectiveness of the high-protein Atkins diet while taking into account all of its possible side effects. The whole idea of the diet is that by eating whatever high-protein or high-fat food you like, while simultaneously limiting your carbohydrate intake to 20 grams per day, for an initial 2 week period after which you gradually increase to 75 grams, you will trigger ketosis as well as lower your levels of insulin. If insulin levels are lowered, glucose is less readily brought to the muscles for energy expenditure. This is an important part of the diet as Dr. Adkins refers to insulin as "the fattening hormone."

The issue is relevant because there are several potential side effects to this diet that could be detrimental to the dieter. This diet could have several harmful affects on the users' performance. Dean Ornish, M.D., says ketosis could lead to heart beat irregularities. David Ludwig, M.D., agrees, by claiming the excess amount of ketones cause acidic buildup of the bloodstream, leading to problems in the heartbeat. The diet itself encourages eating whatever is desired, leading to excess amounts of fat intake, which we all know can lead to heart disease. What's even wors


e is that the diminished blood flow could also affect the ability to get an erection, as stated by Dr. Ornish, definitely a negative. Louis Aronne, M.D., adds that the lack of carbohydrates leads to a reduced amount of B vitamins, fiber, and serotonin, which could lead to depression. By limiting the carbohydrates, the muscles are depleted of glycogen, which causes the athlete to hit the wall much sooner. Obviously, there seem to be a number of down sides to this diet.

The article goes on to give recommendations to a better diet, as shared by Dr. Ludwig. He states that similar weight loss results can be obtained by "eating carbohydrates that have a low glycemic index." A low index will have a small effect on insulin levels, therefore reducing the amount of potentially stored fats. Dr. Ludwig believes this type of diet is "ideal for weight loss." A diet resembling the one recommended by Dr. Ludwig seems much safer and healthier than the Adkins diet. By altering levels of hormones in the body and causing chemical imbalances, several harmful side effects seem to occur. It is much safer to stick to the food pyramid, and exercise on a regular basis if weight loss is desired.

In terms of exercise fitness and training, the article does not cover this topic. However, as stated by Dr.

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