The Atkins Diet Meal Plan

According to a Stanford University study, the Atkins diet is more effective than the Zone diet, Ornish diet and U.S. government weight loss guidelines. The Atkins four-phase meal plan is a step-by-step method that jump-starts weight loss and promotes lifelong weight maintenance.

Features

The Atkins diet meal plan has four phases: induction, ongoing weight loss, pre-maintenance and lifetime maintenance. Induction triggers weight loss by burning fat instead of carbohydrates. Ongoing weight loss allows you to add back in carbohydrates. During pre-maintenance, you work to develop a long-term, healthy eating strategy. Lifetime maintenance begins after you have reached your ideal weight.

Identification

According to atkinsdietfreeplan.com, a sample induction menu might include a southwestern omelet with tomato, avocado and ham for breakfast; a Caesar salad with grilled chicken for lunch; and steak au poivre, asparagus and a mixed green salad for dinner.

Considerations

If you are considering the Atkins diet meal plan, you can test-drive the recipes. Find recipes at atkins.com---along with an easy-to-follow two-week meal plan.

MIsconceptions

Many people believe that Atkins allows zero carbohydrates. According to Atkins Nutritionals, the company founded by Dr. Robert Atkins, people often mistake the low-carb induction phase for the entire program.

Famous Ties

Actress Courtney Thorne-Smith is the Atkins spokeswoman.