The Atkins diet, commonly referred to as a “low carb diet” has been around for many years.
In that time, it has gone in and out of popularity, with new versions popping up every so often.
No matter how popular it is at any given moment, however, you can always find loyal adherents.
Sticking to the diet is fairly easy. Once you have gone through an “induction” phase in which you reach a fat-burning period known as “ketosis,” you closely monitor your carbohydrate intake in order to achieve your weight loss and fitness goals.
Many people find the diet quite easy to follow, especially since they can eat good, filling, healthy fats and other foods they crave just as long as they are not laden with carbohydrates.
And, in recent years, the diet has become easier than ever to stick to thanks to the Atkins diet app programs that are available.
By using an Atkins carb counter or other Atkins app and following some simple tips, you can easily have success on the Atkins diet plan.
Do Your Research
To begin with, don’t make the mistake of diving headfirst into the Atkins diet without fully understanding what it is, how it works, and what it’s all about.
Take the time to read the official Atkins book or check out the website. Read Atkins diet recipes that keep you full and satisfied. Also, look at the Atkins meals available in the frozen food aisles of many major grocery stores. Check out all the great apps currently available to help you stay on plan, learn how to calculate net carbs, and learn how to perfectly follow the Atkins meal plan.
If you can do all of this and find a good carb counter app as well, then you will set yourself up for success. If you just dive in, however, you will probably make a lot of mistakes and maybe even give up out of frustration.
Remember, having a plan means having a plan for success, so do the necessary legwork ahead of time no matter how eager you may be to start your diet. It will be worth it in the end.
Don’t Be Afraid to Eat
Something else you should remember as you follow the Atkins plan is that it’s okay to eat.
When you eat low carb, you are providing your body with the healthy foods that it needs to thrive. This makes it harder to overeat.
The key is not to ever let yourself get too hungry. If you starve yourself or go too long without eating, this could set you up for a binge, which can devastate your diet.
For many people, it is helpful to eat several small meals and/or snacks per day.
As long as you track your food and your carbs with an app and don’t go over the allowed amounts for your goals, you should be just fine.
So, don’t hesitate to dig in! After all, that is one of the best parts of this diet.
Feel the Power of Protein
Another thing to keep in mind while on Atkins is that protein is your friend.
Protein is generally very low in carbohydrates. And, even better yet, it will keep you feeling full for longer.
Think about it. When you eat chips (carbs), you probably find yourself wanting more and more. How often, though, do you want three or four steaks or three or four bowls of beans?
Protein has a way of making you feel full and satisfied and keeping you from overeating.
Thus, do not be afraid to load up on the protein.
Good, lean sources of protein, such as chicken, turkey, and eggs, do the trick best. If you incorporate protein at every meal, you will find that your willpower is a whole lot stronger and that you don’t often feel the urge to “cheat” on your diet.
Remember, Fat is Your Friend
One final thing to keep in mind is that, on this diet, fat is your friend.
Many people are afraid of fat, but fat is actually quite satisfying and can even be good for you if you get it in the right places.
Choose healthy sources of fat, such as olive oil or avocados.
When you get ample fat in your diet, you will find that your cravings for carbohydrates will subside.
If you can follow these tips, you should quickly find that living a low carb lifestyle is easier than you might have imagined.
Give it a try, and you’ll be reaching your health goals in no time at all.
