Atkins

A phased low-carb diet starting with very low carbs (20g/day) and gradually increasing. One of the original popular low-carb diets.

In this guide8 sections
  1. 01Goal of the plan
  2. 02Who it is for
  3. 03Example meals and foods
  4. 04Foods to limit or adapt
  5. 05Grocery guidance
  6. 06Hydration guidance
  7. 07Flexibility and sustainability
  8. 08Individual nutrition note
Real chefs preparing food in a professional kitchen
Real chefs preparing food in a professional kitchen. Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Visiting_Chef_Edward_Lee_prepares_food_in_the_White_House_Kitchen_with_Executive_Chef_Cristeta_Comerford,_Wednesday,_April_26,_2023,_before_the_official_State_Dinner_for_the_Republic_of_Korea.jpg. Visiting Chef Edward Lee prepares food in the White House Kitchen with Executive Chef Cristeta Comerford, Wednesday, April 26, 2023, before the official State Dinner for the Republic of Korea by The White House, Public domain. Sourced from Wikimedia Commons.

Goal of the plan

Source best-for note: Weight loss, blood sugar control.

Who it is for

The source category is Low Carb, with difficulty marked Moderate.

Example meals and foods

The source macro split is 27% protein, 10% carbohydrate, and 63% fat.

Meal timing: 3 meals plus snacks, eat when hungry.

  • Meat & fish
  • Eggs
  • Cheese
  • Butter & oils
  • Nuts & seeds
  • Low-carb vegetables
  • Avocados
  • Cream

Foods to limit or adapt

  • Sugar
  • Grains
  • High-carb fruits
  • Starchy vegetables
  • Legumes (initial phases)
  • Trans fats

Grocery guidance

Suggested addition

Build a simple list around the foods you already enjoy, then add one or two easy repeatable meals before trying to overhaul everything.

Hydration guidance

Suggested addition

Keep water available through the day and adjust fluids around heat, sweat rate, long runs, and higher-fiber meals.

Flexibility and sustainability

Suggested addition

Phase 1 is very restrictive. Gradual carb reintroduction helps find personal tolerance. Well-studied.

Individual nutrition note

Suggested addition

Nutrition advice should be adapted to the individual. Consider medical history, medications, preferences, budget, culture, and support from a qualified clinician or dietitian when needed.