I’ve gotten a few comments and questions on why I’m going on the Atkins diet. I think a bit of background is needed to give everyone an understanding of my goals.
When I spoke with my doctor a couple of weeks ago, we went through a number of diet scenarios. The first thing we talked about is my current eating habits. Let’s say that he was less than pleased. I mentioned my love of junk food, red meat, bacon, pasta and bread. Fruits and vegetables had no place as one of my food groups. Ever since I was a kid, I have been a picky eater. And when I say picky, I mean it. My poor wife has a very boring selection of foods thanks to me.
After going over a few different options, my doctor recommended Atkins because of my current eating habits. By going on a low carb diet, I would still be able to eat a good amount of protein such as steak and chicken. He thought that this would give me the best chance for success. If I were to cut out everything that I love and have grown accustomed to eating, I would set myself up for failure.
I will not be cutting out carbs altogether. Initially I will be cutting down to 15-20 grams of carbs per day. But as time passes, I will slowly be adding more carbs back into my diet. This will be a gradual process in order to give my body time to adjust.
We went to the library last week so that I could do some more research on Atkins and other diet plans. While there, I found a book called “The Atkins Advantage”. This book lays out a 12 week plan that includes diet and exercise. I was really impressed with the detail of this book. It explains why I’m cutting down on the carbs and how to slowly add them back into my diet. It also gave me an exercise plan. This plan starts slow (which is good for me given how out of shape I am) and then will increase the level of physical activity every week. I know that all of the activity I had today is more than the recommended amount, but how do you say no to a bike ride with your daughter?
I plan to use this book as a guide for the next 90 days. I doubt I will follow it 100%, but it has put me on the right track. While I don’t plan to be on Atkins forever, I feel it will give me the jump start I need for changing my habits.
I think that is a great start and smart choice. Everyone is different, and not one thing works for everyone. There will always be someone (or several people) that will not like or not back you up on your "Diet" of choice. But that is what it is! A CHOICE! What ever might work for you, might now work for someone else. GO FOR IT!!! You CAN do it!
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree with the plan to start out slowly. More is definitely worse in the beginning. You'll burn out and just be sore all the time. The best advice is to just listen to your body. You'll know if you are pushing too hard, too fast. Slowly increase the intensity just like the carbs.
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