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Posted on April 1, 2006 by Keith Lachance | Posted under Supplements
Atkins Protein and You: Making the Most of Your Meals
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Dr, Robert C. Atkins is the creator of the Atkins plan, which he touted as "the amazing no- hunger weight- loss plan that has helped millions lose weight and keep it off." While there is no long- term proof that his plan helps those struggling with weight loss keep the pounds off over the course of a lifetime, there is no shortage of people willing to give his diet a try. In fact, there are more than six million copies of his book, Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution, in circulation, along with a variety of Atkins protein food products and supplemental resources such as cook books, calendars and planners. The internet is also loaded with a wealth of information about the Atkins plan. Atkins' plan approaches weight loss as a metabolic issue that can be controlled with food choices that maintain blood sugar stability and encourage ketosis -- the use of the body's stored body fat for energy. To create this fat- burning state, the protein plan by Atkins encourages the consumption of protein- rich foods such as meat, cheese and dairy products. Refined or processed carbohydrates like sugar and flour (think bread) should be consumed in very limited portions while on the Atkins plan. The reason for this is to help the body turn to stored fat, its secondary energy source, for fuel rather than the easily burned carbs that normally form a large part of a typical North American diet. As with almost every diet plan, non-starchy vegetables such as lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, and cabbage are fine to eat. Starchy or sugar veggies like corn and certain squashes should be eaten in limited portions. Unlike many diets, the protein plan by Atkins doesn't enforce strict rules about fat consumption -- a big plus for many dieters who struggle to feel satisfied with low- fat and fat- free products. Again, the rationale is one of common sense: eating flavorful foods is a treat for the taste buds that will help the body feel satisfied sooner and for a longer period than a bland, low- fat or low- protein choice that may result in hunger vibes returning soon after eating. That's not to say followers of the Atkins protein diet can eat grease- laden foods at every meal without a second thought because it is simply impossible to lose weight like that. Instead, enjoy a piece of cheese with a snack, have a dab of butter melted on vegetables or grill up a juicy steak for dinner. These foods will provide much of the nutrition the body needs while helping suppress hunger and encouraging fat-burning as a metabolic fuel source -- a great combination for anyone looking to drop a couple pounds. About The Author: Keith lachance is a professional writer about health and proteins. At his website, http://www.proteinlive.com he provides advise and information about different types of proteins and their benefits. If you need more information about protein visit the website. |
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