The Atkins diet emphasizes restricting carbohydrate intake while increasing the amount of protein and fat in the diet. There is an abundance of low carbohydrate prepared food products available in most supermarkets, and a number participants of the Atkins diet program are making use of these processed food items. However, dieters should limit the amount of low carbohydrate processed foods they consume.
Although the Atkins diet calls for a low carbohydrate intake, it focuses on natural, unprocessed foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh meats, and whole grains. Natural foods retain more vitamins and nutrients than processed foods. Moreover, processed foods typically contain harmful chemicals, preservatives, and artificial ingredients which may cause health problems. Thus, packaged, canned, and processed foods are not supported by the Atkins diet.
The Atkins diet is designed to help people lose weight in a healthy fashion. If you are having trouble following the Atkins diet plan, or if you are on the plan but losing very little weight, take a closer look at what you are eating. If the low-carbohydrate foods that you eat are processed, this is affecting your ability to lose weight. Focus on fresh foods, or foods that are frozen in their natural states without added ingredients. Learn quick and simple ways to cook natural foods at home so that it will be easier to avoid precooked, prepackaged, and processed foods. Healthy vegetable soup is one of the easiest meals to make, and one of the most economical. It is also easy to steam and stir-fry fresh vegetables and healthy meats.
If you choose to follow the Atkins diet, take the time and make the effort to correctly follow the plan. Your health is your most valuable asset. Eat right, exercise daily, and lose unhealthy weight.