Atkins v. South Beach

[kpoll19]

Hello everyone. I had done Atkins several years ago with success but gained half back when I "fell". I was not able at the time to get back on the program successfully. I have since decided to try "healthier" diets again. Weight Watchers - nothing. South Beach Diet worked the first couple of weeks but I guess I was not ready to add grains and fruits back into my diet so I am at odds again.

What do you feel is the main difference between Atkins and SBD? I would like to combine eating plans to get the best of both. Does anyone else do this and if so, how is it working for you?

Kelly

[julirama723]

Well, Atkins and South Beach are both meant to be followed "by the book" and to combine the two is to do NEITHER of them successfully.

Just out of curiousity, why on earth would you want to combine them? Each plan has many success stories when followed correctly, why mess with a good thing?

Atkins is broken into 4 phases: Induction, Ongoing Weight Loss, Pre-Maintenance, and Maintenance. Induction is followed for 2 weeks, and during this time you eat foods only off of the acceptable foods list, in certain amounts. (You are allowed proteins and fats to satiety, 3-4 oz. hard cheese, 3 cups veggies [2 cups salad/1 cup other OR 3 cups salad] and special category foods.) Too often, people stay on induction for a ridiculous amount of time, believing this will speed their losses. Usually they just get bored and fall off the wagon.

After two weeks, you move to OWL, which is where you will spend MANY weeks. Most of your weightloss will occur during OWL. If you had problems adding fruit and grains back, then doing OWL properly will be a great benefit to you. During OWL, you climb "rungs", which means you slowly add food back based on GI/GL. YOu stay on a rung for at least 2 weeks, adding foods back to see if they cause blood sugar instability, or to see if you have a pre-existing allergy or sensitivity.

When you're within 5-10 pounds of your goal, you begin Pre-maintenance. Maintenance is the final step, and the hardest. Here is when you strive to maintain your losses while eating healthy foods.

If you want to really know about Atkins, pick up a copy of Dr. Atkins New Diet Revolution (2002 edition) and READ IT COVER TO COVER. Don't skip chapters, don't pick and choose information. The plan works when it's followed correctly. It does not work when rules are bent and liberties are taken.

[murphy'smom]

I agree! You can't just make this up as you go. Pick a plan that works for you, and follow it to the letter. Give yourself a chance and you will see results. Don't let food rule your life! Good luck to you.

[gman]

Ditto well said. How about doing Atkins ... and then enjoying your success ... on a beach ... in the south? lol Sorry I could not resist.
Glenn

[kpoll19]

Thanks all for your input. I just read an old post of mine from a few years ago when I managed to lose over 50 pounds on Atkins. I felt strong and in control of my eating for the first time in my life. I want that feeling back. I am going to recommit to
Atkins but to doing it right. Not spending a year in induction this time. If I do it right maybe I won't fall like I did before. All the SBD recipe books I bought will still be put to good use as many of the recipes can be used in Atkins with a tweak here or there. Thanks again. Kelly

[chinadoll]

KPOLL, since you did Atkins before and stayed on Induction for so long, maybe that's what is sticking in your mind. By doing it by the rungs (and I second the "read the book" comments) you may be surprised to find that it is more similar to SBD in the later rungs than you realize right now. Some of the things you think you may miss on Atkins may just be there waiting for you.

Welcome back and I wish you great success.

[kpoll19]

Thanks Jill. I do know the rungs even though I never got to them before. That's what I mean though, I feel they are actually very close in many ways. But again, you have to do the plan the way it was intended. Thanks again. Oh, I have read the book in the past but it wouldn't hurt to revisit it!! Have a great day!

[chinadoll]

Yep, I reread it from time to time and always find something to remind me I need to brush up now and then.

[murphy'smom]

Good for you!! Glad to have you back.