Kim Kardashian is just four months post-pregnancy and looking better than ever leaving everyone to question: What is Kim’s weight loss secret? Lucky for us collegiettes, the secret is out. Two words: Atkin’s Diet.
So what is the Atkin’s Diet, anyway? Is it expensive? Does it mean no more bagels from the GW Deli? While the Atkin’s Diet does not require the purchase of any products or books, it definitely limits the number of bacon egg & cheese bagel sandwiches you can eat. I know, my inner fat child is crying too.
The Atkin’s Diet focuses on restricting the amount of net carbs that are consumed daily, while promoting the consumption of fibrous vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Taking the total number of grams of carbs in a specific food and subtracting the grams of fiber creates the measure of net carbs. Fiber is helpful in digestion and maintaining blood sugar levels, so it never counts against you.
The Atkin’s Diet is broken up into four distinct phases: induction, ongoing weight-loss, pre-maintenance, and lifetime maintenance. In the first three stages, net carbs are consumed from vegetables, meat, and dairy products. It is not until the last phase that grains and breads are allowed. In lifetime maintenance, any many as 75 grams of net carbs – or that bagel you’ve been wanting from the deli – can be consumed.
The science behind the Atkin’s Diet is simple. When your body needs energy, carbs are its first source. The Atkin’s Diet limits the number of carbs you consume in order to tap into fat reserves for energy. Limiting carb consumption also stabilizes your blood sugar and energy levels, resulting in fewer cravings.
It’s no secret – the Atkin’s Diet does work. Kim K lost an astounding twenty-five pounds herself, up to fifteen of which can be lost during the first two weeks of induction.
Negative Effects
So what are the negative effects of the Atkin’s Diet? And, equally as important, will you gain the weight back?
Since the Atkin’s Diet promotes a lifestyle change rather than a one-time quick fix, those who partake can be less likely to gain the weight back. The Atkin’s diet teaches you to pay attention what you are consuming, and to eat well-balanced meals.
The trick to the Atkin’s Diet is that it’s not easy. A significant reduction in carbs during the first phase of induction can result in fatigue, dizziness, and headaches.
At the end of the day, remember: everything in moderation. The Atkin’s Diet is a way to kick start weight loss, and implement lifestyle changes to keep the weight off long after the first two weeks.
Weight loss is process that takes time, dedication, and patience. Just remember, there is no diet that will do what eating healthy and exercising does!
Have you tried the Atkin’s Diet? Share your stories with us!
Sources:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/atkins-diet/my00648