DEAR DR. GOTT: I started the Atkins diet three weeks ago. So far I haven’t lost anything. I’m trying to decide whether to continue. Basically it is no flour, no sugar, very restricted vegetables and no fruit. I am 72 and take medication for blood pressure, osteoporosis and cholesterol. I respect your opinion and hope you will respond.
DEAR READER: The Atkins diet is essentially a low-carbohydrate, high-protein method of weight loss. It was named after Dr. Robert Atkins, who allowed steak with bearnaise sauce, bacon, eggs, Roquefort dressing and cheddar cheese in his plan. The diet was based on the theory that obese individuals consume too many carbohydrates. [Read more...]