It’s normal for to go through an adjustment period during the first couple weeks on a low-carb diet like Atkins as your body transitions from burning carbs for fuel to burning fat for fuel. During your first few days, you might lose a couple pounds. Initially this will be water weight. Some people will lose more and some will lose less. This is completely normal. Keep reading for some tips that will help you adjust to your low-carb diet:
Don’t let the scale “weigh” you down. Once you lose the water weight, you’ll start to lose fat pounds. But don’t get obsessed with the scale. You’ll start to lose inches as well, so if your clothes start to feel looser, even if your weight doesn’t change, you’re on the right track! Weight yourself at the same time of day once or twice a week and take your measurements.
Drink up! As your body gets used to a low-carb diet, water and sodium are flushed from your body, which may possibly make you dehydrated and light-headed. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of fluids (keep refilling that water bottle!) and drink a cup of full-sodium broth, bone broth or miso soup daily to replenish your sodium level.
Add fiber. Constipation may also be a side effect as you get used to your low-carb diet. If this is the case for you, take a fiber supplement daily.
Keep the veggies coming. They are a rich source of fiber, plus they fill you up and add flavor and variety to your meals.
Don’t skip meals. Three meals and two snacks a day will keep your metabolism humming—you burn calories when you digest your food. Plus, eating every two to three hours will keep your hunger in check, as well as keep your energy levels steady.
Curb the cravings. During the first couple of days, you may feel hungry or crave high-carb foods. Grab a high-protein snack, such as a couple cubes of cheese and a slice of ham, a handful of almonds, or a chicken breast.
Stick with these tips, and your first couple weeks on Atkins will be a lot easier. Soon, you’ll notice the numbers on the scale start to go down while your energy levels go up and your hunger stays in check. Good luck!