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The Curious Bag
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According to Dr. Atkins, when you eat too many carbohydrates (carbs), your body begins storing them as fat. When you eat fewer carbs, your body starts to use and burn its fat as the main fuel source, aiding with weight loss.
History
The high-protein, high-fat diet was developed in the 1960s and gained popularity again in the 1990s. It is believed that 20 million people have gone on the Atkins diet.
Features
The theory is that sugar and refined carbs increase insulin production. With the restriction of carbs, the body begins to metabolize fat as energy, causing the person to burn extra weight.
Phases
There are four phases of the Atkins diet including induction, ongoing weight loss, pre-maintenance and lifetime maintenance.
Effects
When the body only consumes a minimum amount of carbohydrates, it puts the body into a state called ketosis, which forces it to burn its fat stores as fuel for energy.
Benefits
Some believe this diet allows people to lose weight quickly and is good for dieters with insulin resistance.
Considerations
Because the Atkins diet eliminates many food groups, for some it is only good for short-term dieting needs. People should discuss it with their doctors before starting the program.
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