General:
The Atkins Diet involves the restriction of carbohydrates in order to switch the body's metabolism from burning glucose to burning stored body fat. This process begins when the body enters the state of ketosis (a stage in metabolism occurring when the liver converts fat into fatty acids and ketone bodies which can be used by the body for energy.) as a consequence of running out of excess carbohydrates to burn.
Types of food allowed:
Meat (Red, Chicken, Turkey, Pork, Sausage... basically, Any Meat), eggs, seafood, nuts, butter, cheese, some (low starch) vegetables, artificial sweeteners, diet soda, water
Advantages:
Weight comes off fast at first, many people are fond of the food selections allowed.
Disadvantages:
This is a high fat diet. This diet limits carbohydrates and teaches people to choose calorie dense food. This diet is likely to lead to weight gain and heart disease once the diet is over.
Health Issues:
This diet limits many healthy vegetables and necessary carbohydrates. Diets that are high in fat raise blood cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease
External Resources
Homepage:
Atkins Official Website
Reviews:
WebMD Review of the Atkins Diet
Diet Channel Review of the Atkins Diet
Overviews:
Overview of Atkins Diet by About.com