It’s hard to believe that it was way back in 1972 when Dr. Atkins introduced his controversial diet program to the world. Atkins introduced us to the idea of high protein dieting with a corresponding virtual elimination of carbohydrates from our diets. But there is no denying that Atkins took off like wildfire in the 1990s and is going strong today. So it would do us well to dig down to what really makes the Atkins system work for so many people.

Probably the core teaching of Atkins is also the most dramatic change in how you eat because taking Atkins calls for us to virtually take carbohydrates out of the diet entirely. The concept Atkins teaches is that the body will burn the sugar that comes from carbohydrates first, by the time that part of our diet is burnt off, the body is satisfied so it never gets around to burning off fats. So Adkins takes carbs out of the equation.

The Atkins diet emphasizes the importance of eating foods high in protein like red meats, pure cheeses, fish, poultry, and eggs. It also says that it’s okay to eat meals high in fats and oils like butter, mayonnaise, and salad dressings since the body will burn it quickly.

There is a transition the body goes through when we pull carbohydrates out of the diet called “ketosis” which means the body starts burning other things for energy, mostly fats. This is the heart of Atkins because as the body turns to fats to compensate for the lack of carbohydrates to burn, not only does weight loss occur but visible fat disappears.

Most diets don’t last because when the person goes out to eat they are not bold enough to demand a “diet” meal. When you are on the Atkins Diet, you have to be bold enough to tell a server exactly what you wish for in your dish. Let’s say you feel like a burger. Since Atkins requires that you reduce carbohydrates, you will want to tell the waiter to hold the bun, and give you more lettuce. You have to give up your fries as well. You obviously can’t order a pasta bowl or a baked potato with cheese because both of those meals are high in sugars.

People who know the secret of how to be successful using Atkins are not embarrassed to make unusual requests in a restaurant. But by being courageous and outspoken that you are on Atkins and proud of it, you lay the groundwork for success. Because just like in anything else in life, to be a success you have to put out the effort and put up with the sacrifices.

If you are going to embark on this dieting plan, you have to learn every element of the Atkins Diet first. Buy a good book on it so that you can learn the little tricks and tips that allow you to enjoy good food while still sticking to the diet. You can also get free recipes online so you will never be stuck for meal ideas.

It has been proven again and again that the Atkins diet can work for a broad range of people, there is a short transition period where your body adjusts - but isn’t it worth it in the long run if you can find a diet that works in the long term? Start off strict with the diet and then ease off slightly when you have reached your target weight so it is easier to stick to.