Diet and Nutrition

Popular Diets That Don't Work

The Atkins Diet: Increased Risk of Heart Disease

The Atkins diet is another low-carb diet recommended by some experts. It requires you to eat foods high in protein and fat, but avoid foods that are high in carbs. This diet has been around for decades, and people are still choosing it over others. It was first created by a physician named Dr. Robert C. Atkins, and his book on it was a bestseller in 1972. It has thrived in many different parts of the world, but lately, there have been several studies done that discredit the diet. While low-carb diets have been proven to help with weight loss and be healthy overall, this diet is considered unhealthy due to the high levels of saturated fats and it can raise LDL, the bad cholesterol, in some people.

If you choose to stick with the Atkins diet, here is what you should eat and avoid:

Do eat:

  • Meats
  • Fatty fish and seafood
  • Eggs
  • Low-carb vegetables (such as Kale)
  • Full-fat dairy
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Healthy fats 

Try to avoid:

  • Sugars
  • Grains
  • Vegetable oils
  • Trans fats
  • Anything labeled "diet" and "low-fat"
  • High-carb vegetables
  • High-carb fruits
  • Starches
  • Legumes

As time goes on, you can add healthier carbs into your diet. However, you should also keep in mind that you may not get the right nutrition since it eliminates one of the most essential food groups. There is also a lack of fiber and a risk of dehydration, which may cause you to feel lightheaded and loose most of your energy. There is also a risk of a gout attack, an extreme loss of calcium, and an overwork of your kidneys and liver. So, while this diet may be beneficial for weight loss, you may need to give it more research.