This diet is an extremely popular weight-loss solution that focuses on carb restriction and protein intake. Many people are drawn to the low-carb, high-protein approach because studies show it leads to weight loss, lower blood pressure, and less abdominal fat.
Health benefits of the Atkins diet
1. Good for Losing Weight
Although the Atkins diet does not specify a calorie intake, it does recommend low carbohydrate intake for weight loss. This can be achieved by limiting your daily carbohydrates to under 50 grams. Additionally, the diet limits sweets, soda, and oils to control food cravings that may affect weight loss. Once you adopt this pattern of eating and exercise it is likely you will lose weight and have better health as well.
2. Protection against Type 2 diabetes
In a research study, 70 people with type 2 diabetes followed one of four different diets for 12 weeks. The participants then had to return for a follow-up period of 24 weeks.
By the end of the study, all participants had lost at least 10 percent of the weight they started with. The Atkins diet had the greatest success rate among those who followed it carefully and adhered to the plan.
3. Less risk of heart disease
One of the main reasons people adopt the Atkins diet is to prevent heart disease. Research shows that those who follow a low-carb high-protein diet have a lower chance of developing cardiovascular problems. It is thought that this occurs because they will eat foods such as red meat and poultry rather than rich foods like red meat and pasta, which increase blood fat levels.
4. Lower cancer risk
According to research, the Atkins diet may help prevent cancer. In a study published in the European Journal of Cancer Prevention, women who consumed at least two cups of vegetables daily were five times less likely to develop breast cancer than women who did not eat this much fruit and vegetable.
The Atkins diet is an important tool for weight loss and better health, but it should not be taken lightly. If you are interested in adopting the Atkins diet it is helpful to get personalized advice from a medical professional that specializes in this type of diet.