I could not be a stronger defender of Atkins—it is a science-driven nutritional plan that works. I've seen the results first-hand. What I like even better about Atkins is its continual evolution, based on new science and the needs of all of you who are following the diet. Our goal has always been to help people lose weight safely and effectively, while teaching them how to eat for life. Which is why I'm very excited to announce the introduction of a new, flexible component of Atkins: Atkins 40.
Before you start worrying that Atkins is changing, I want you to realize that we are simply offering another option, with more flexibility and more food choices. On Atkins 40, you begin with 40 grams of Net Carbs a day and move up progressively from there as you get closer to your goal weight. Atkins 40 is backed by 31 scientific studies, which demonstrate that most people can begin to burn fat for fuel with 40 grams of Net Carbs per day. In a nutshell (and yes, you can eat nuts from day one on Atkins 40!), Atkins 40 helps you make a variety of food choices from a selection of vegetables, nuts/seeds, a variety of fruits, whole grains, legumes, as well as dairy, including whole Greek yogurt and soft cheeses. Atkins 40 also focuses on portion control, and emphasizes nutrient-dense carbohydrates. Added sugars are still a no-no.
The classic Atkins approach has been renamed Atkins 20—there are no changes. It's the same four-Phase program starting with Induction at 20 grams of Net Carbs per day. If you have a significant amount of weight to lose (more than 40 pounds) or are pre-diabetic or diabetic, most likely you should start Atkins at Phase 1 (Atkins 20). If you have 40 pounds of weight or less to lose, Atkins 40 may the way to go. So you can choose the approach that will work best for you.
Here's the scoop on Atkins 40:
Each day you have:
Approximately 15 grams of Net Carbs that come from high-fiber Foundation Vegetables
Remaining 25 grams of Net Carbs can be chosen freely from the expanded acceptable foods list (Greek yogurt, fruit, nuts, whole grains and legumes)
3 servings of protein. 4 to 6-oz. per serving
3 servings of added fats (salad dressing, mayo, butter, etc.)
6 to 8 glasses of water
A daily multi-vitamin
In the coming weeks, I will be talking even more about Atkins 40, and you will see some exciting changes on www.atkins.ca in the next few days. I look forward to your feedback!