Induction Phase of the Atkins Diet - What You Need to Know

Induction Phase of the Atkins Diet - What You Need to Know

The induction phase is the first and one of the most important steps to having a successful diet experience
on the Atkins diet. The first phase introduces the new dieter to the list of acceptable foods and the basic rules of the diet. It is very important for the person to study and know what types of food are acceptable in this phase of the diet before going to the grocery store to buy food.

In this phase it is important to eat at least three balanced meals per day. These meals can be broken down into a larger number of smaller meals if cravings occur between meals. Carbohydrate cravings are very common and sometimes overwhelming during this phase of the diet. To minimize these cravings, the body must be kept satisfied with proteins and the allowable vegetables.

These foods can be consumed in large quantities to control carbohydrate cravings. Note the Atkins diet is not based on caloric intake but rather carbohydrate consumption. The grams of carbohydrates need to be monitored very closely to make sure they remain within the limits. At least twelve to fifteen of each day's allotted carbohydrate intake should come from the vegetables allowed in the diet, because the fiber in the vegetables is vital in keeping intestinal health during the diet.

No pasta, grains, bread, or starchy vegetables are allowed in the induction phase. Some of these foods are reintroduced in limited parts in later phases. Beans although a good source of protein, contain more than the allowable amount of carbohydrate for the induction phase.

Induction Phase of the Atkins Diet