Atkins up and Atkins down

by Stefan Eliel
(Tucson, Az)

Most of the comments I would have made are made above by you, Suzette, in "pros and cons."

I suggest that the Atkins diet is a great way for me to start a diet. The problem is I have never been able to transition onto another diet which works long term or, better put, modified my values to accomodate my desire to be substantially thinner.

I have never progressed beyond Atkins phase two. I usually remain on phase one for a month (not the Atkins recommended two weeks) and then proceed for another month to six weeks to phase two. Then I return to past bad eating habits and in the following three to six months regain most, and sometimes all, of the lost weight.

I would still recommend Atkins for two to three months as a fast and easy weight loser. However, knowing from the onset what to do (and doing it) after my time on Atkins is where the real problem begins (for me).

I have lost as much as thirty pounds using the Atkins method. Only four/five of these pounds are water. I use vitamins as recommended by Dr. Atkins during the period I am on the diet. I also use fibers to avoid constipation.

I agree particularly during phase one that the energy level is reduced due to the absence of carbs, however I have been able to continue my rather extensive seven day two hours per day exercise program - Atkins diet notwithstanding.