The Atkins Diet has been in use for over 30 years, but it has only recently enjoyed a surge in popularity.
Dr. Robert Atkins pioneered the Atkins Diet, the theory of which is very simple: The human body prefers to utilize carbohydrates, including those found in breads, grains, and cereals for energy, and it will burn them before body fat. By scaling back on carbohydrates in your diet, you make your body burn fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.
Reducing the amount of carbohydrates in your diet forces your body into a state called "ketosis." This word is derived from the "ketones" that your body uses for energy when sugars and carbs are unavailable.
When you're in a state of ketosis, your body is creating ketones from your stored fat that is being burned for energy. Basically, ketones are the leftovers from this process and they're used in place of sugar in the body.
One of the most common misconceptions about the Atkins Diet is that you can or should eat very unhealthy, fatty foods most of the time. This is a myth. Dr. Atkins recommended that you limit your consumption of these types of foods (bacon, butter, sausage, etc.) and focus instead on healthy fats, including fish oil, olive oil, nuts, etc.
The Atkins Diet has several positives and negatives that have been attributed to it. Some of the positives include:
Rapid loss of weight - Although during the first few days the majority of weight lost is water, your body does indeed become more efficient at burning fat.
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