Atkins Induction

[ark_ader]

I lost 50 lbs on Atkins Induction in only 3 weeks.

Has anyone else have a success story with regard to a Atkins diet?

[Malenko]

I'm 6'1" 192lbs, with a solid core and low body fat %
Wii Fit said Im borer line Obese

[Ed_McCarron]

Isn't Atkins the one that destroys your kidneys and fills your blood with ketones?

But hey, if you're deadset on losing weight, I hear bulimia is all the rage.

[AtomSmasher]

I lost 50 lbs on Atkins Induction in only 3 weeks.

Has anyone else have a success story with regard to a Atkins diet?

I have to say I find that very hard to believe.  25-30lbs in 3 weeks maybe, but 50lbs is just too much for that short of time.  Maybe you meant 3 months?  50lbs in 3 months is still a very impressive rate of weight loss.  If you somehow did lose 50lbs in 3 weeks then you definately need to slow down because keeping that rate of weight loss is extremely dangerous.

[Kangum]

im 5' 9" and weigh 220 lbs.  maybe im crazy but i dont feel that fat. i dont know what atkins induction is but no way id put my body through anything that could cause such a massive loss in such short period of time.

[saint]

50 pounds in 3 weeks == go see your doctor and make sure you don't have a problem. That's insane.

[FrizzleFried]

I low carbed it 4 years ago.  It took me 3 months to lose 50 lbs.  It took me 3 years 8 months to put it back on.  I am going back on the low carb diet next week (after a birthday party on Sunday).  If I can suffer for 3 more months to lose 50 lbs again,  only to take over 3 and half years to gain it back....worth it IMHO.

When I first low carbed it,  I lost 20 lbs in 2 weeks...then it slowed down....

[patrickl]

It depends on the weight you started with. An elephant could lose 50lbs by taking a dump.

[Xiaou2]

 I would think that if all you ate was meat... your body wouldnt have enough
vitamins.   It wouldnt need a lot of the meat - as it would look for vitamins... and
thus most of the meat would simply be put out as waste... while the body tried to
feed off the fat and itself - to gather enough vitamins to keep going on as normal.
(basically, the body would be starving, and degrading)

 Lower carbs and lower fat intake + Exercise = much better for you... Imop.

[ChadTower]

I trained for and ran a triathlon... lost 10lb and actually ate a whole lot more than I usually do.   

[AtomSmasher]

 I would think that if all you ate was meat... your body wouldnt have enough
vitamins. 

Then I guess it's a good thing the Atkins diet doesn't consist of only eating meat.   Vegetables are strongly encouraged in all stages of the diet and you only go ultra low carb for 2 weeks, after that you start raising the number of carbs you eat each week.  Even during the ultra low carb section, they still want you to eat 12-15 net carbs in vegetables every day, which can add up to a lot of vegetables (for instance, 1 cup of broccoli is only 2 carbs).

[shmokes]

The OP is a gross exaggeration. 

Also, the Atkins diet will give you intolerable breath.  I'm talking about toxic, disgusting breath that smells strong from ten feet away.  It's like something inside you went rotten.  You won't know it.  You don't smell your own bad breath.  It's absolutely the most horrible, revolting breath I have ever smelled.

[ark_ader]

I lost 50 lbs on Atkins Induction in only 3 weeks.

Has anyone else have a success story with regard to a Atkins diet?

I have to say I find that very hard to believe.  25-30lbs in 3 weeks maybe, but 50lbs is just too much for that short of time.  Maybe you meant 3 months?  50lbs in 3 months is still a very impressive rate of weight loss.  If you somehow did lose 50lbs in 3 weeks then you definately need to slow down because keeping that rate of weight loss is extremely dangerous.

Well I tried Atkins before and I could not shift the weight.  Everything I did was wrong, and I did not stick to the diet as I should have done.  The regimen is very hard: Bacon & Eggs with Mushrooms for Breakfast, Small Salad and tuna for lunch, and Chicken (no steak) and Cauliflower and Cabbage for dinner. 

No bread, sugar, fruit, (except 3 strawberries) cake, only Diet Caffeine free Coke (1 glass a day) no Atkins Shakes or breakfast bars, no tea (but I have Starbucks black and cold for Breakfast). I can have Cheese in moderation, no crackers or rye bread.  8 pints of water a day (hardest part is when its raining outside) minimum.

Well that's it.  Also I walk 6 miles a day, which is a breeze as I used to hike 12 miles of Red Rock in 101F in Vegas every other morning, so the UK weather helps a lot.  I weighed just over 22 stone which equals to 308 and when I weighed myself two days ago I was just under 18 and a half stone which is 259 lbs.  Which is over 50 pounds in three weeks.  This week is my fourth and I have 3 days to go until my next weigh in.   

The results were dramatic to say the least. I could not see my shoes looking down and now I can.  My weight was due to Taco Bell, Mac Donalds, my sister-in-law's Lasagne, M&Ms, cakes you name it. And the Red Rock hikes I guess stopped me from gaining more as I could have ballooned even higher.

I could show pictures but they are too upsetting and I could not afford your therapy costs.   

There are some drawbacks.  Like Shmokes said your breath is horrific.  I chew 1 stick of sugar free gum (a freebie) all day (it lasts) to keep people from running away.  Digestion is a problem sometimes, and well you need your vitamins and Fibergel to keep your clock ticking.

You HAVE to want to to lose weight, and stick to the same foods without changing.  Yes there is a list I can draw from, but I don't.  I eat when I'm not hungry bang on time, and a breast of chicken to snack on.  I can jump off Induction and go on OWL = Ongoing Weight Loss which lets me add more carbs to my 20g maximum a day diet. But I think I will keep on it for another 6 months or so, to see if I can get to my dream weight of 175 lbs.  I'm 6 foot in height and with Body Mass Index should be in the pocket for a "Body For Life".  As Bill Phillips would say.

It's very expensive to buy all the good quality foods here.  UK prices are double the US standard and luckily are without added sugars.  I know the farm where the meat comes from locally with no hidden additives or preservatives.  So the cost is...well... cheaper if you think the cost of candy and chips are not included. 

Oh..NO ALCOHOL either.  No Guinness. 

I cannot wait for the next month to be at my target weight of 200 lbs.  I can fit into size 40 pants where my previous ones were 44.  I can celebrate with a new wardrobe.   

I do get the trembles and shakes in the morning.  My attitude has improved with more patience (Saint take note) as my general well being has improved.  Its dire I know, but I relate it to when I quit smoking.  Just stop.  Bang boom no cigarettes.  I think that is the hardest part of the diet to do.  The mental part. 

I'll find some of my Red Rock Hiking Pictures of me Last June and me now so you can see that I'm not BSing.


After you got your mindset it is easy as cake.


Did someone mention cake?   


Edit: Checked Googlemaps and edited distance.

[Ed_McCarron]

Did someone mention cake?   

The cake is a lie.

[Malenko]

Dont take this the wrong way, but like I said Im 6'1" and about 190lbs; Im not fat at all, Im not ripped but I am solid. My "ideal weight" according to doctors charts is 180lbs which I think is too light, the only way I can lose 10 lbs is if I shave all my body hair, donate a kidney, have my spleen and tonsils removed, and amputate an arm. 6' and 175 is unhealthy on the other side of things and losing weight too fast IS NOT healthy for you in any way.

No diet can compensate for lack of exercise , I eat what I want and dont count calories. I dont have time to walk 12 miles a day, so I hit the treadmill when I can, isometrics all the time, and strength training on random days of the week (worst thing to do is get in a routine your body gets used to

I hope youre able to get to a healthy weight and maintain it without any adverse repercussions on your health.

[AtomSmasher]

I really hope your seeing a doctor regularly during this extreme weight loss because like everyones been saying, 50lbs in three weeks is not healthy.  If you plan on keeping it up, then at the very least check in with a doctor and make sure your body can handle it.  I'm betting you'd rather be fat and alive then skinny and dead.

[HaRuMaN]

Isn't Atkins the one that destroys your kidneys and fills your blood with ketones?

Not to mention your gallbladder.  I had a friend on Atkins and her gallbladder literally exploded.

[HaRuMaN]

I've lost 37 pounds since Jan 1st of this year.  How?  A few ways:

1) Just eat less.  Smaller portion sizes.  Also, eat slower, give your brain a chance to catch up to your stomach.
2) Stay away from the junk food, especially fast food.  No more sodas.  No more mayo on my sandwich, etc.
3) Skim milk, low-fat cheese and lunchmeats, low calorie bread (45 kCal a slice)
4) Get off the couch!

[ChadTower]

I've lost ~52lbs and I've gone down 8 pant sizes, not 2.  (sounds more like he lost 20 to me, which is typical)

Yeah, I lost 10-12lb and went down two sizes.

[whammoed]

I started eating a little better and working out on a more regular basis 8 months ago.  I have gained 7-10 pounds.   
I assume it's muscle because my body fat is obviously lower and my belt doesn't feel tight anymore on the same notch.

I would think if you did lose 50 lbs that quick and plan on losing another 50 in a similar time frame that you will be looking for a plastic surgeon to remove that exra skin hanging off of you.  I know nothing about losing that kind of weight personally, but it doesn't sound right.   

[shardian]

I need to lose weight badly too, but Atkins and other fad diets are not the answer. Frequent dieting is never the answer - the rapid swings in metabolism and dietary changes screw with your body very, very badly.

We have a family friend who used to gain weight in the winter and then hardcore diet in the spring/summer to take it off. She now is in her late 40's and is now having major health issues. The gall bladder thing happened to her, as well as diabetes, and several other health issues.

Fad dieting also trains your body to hoard fats and calories. When you come off the diet, your metabolism will plummet, because your body will literally 'freak out' and prepare for another possible stretch of no food.

Slow and steady life changes is the only way to lose weight and be more healthy overall.

[FrizzleFried]

There is so much BS in this thread about low carb diets.  Diabetic?  Hahaha.  I'm not diabetic and I low carbed it.  Hell,  my doctors were ENCOURAGING me to stick with my diet as it was working.  As for vitamins and minerals,  ever heard of supplements?  And no,  you don't eat JUST meat.

Those who have ZERO CLUE about what a low carb diet is all about...your ignorance is apparent...

[ChadTower]

It really doesn't matter in the end.  People who go on short term diets will end up struggling long term to keep the weight off.  Shardian was right - the old wisdom is the right wisdom.  Want to be lower bodyfat?  Clean food and lots of exercise as life habits.  Best way is to pick up a sport or hobby that makes the exercise something you actually want to do.  We're not gerbils - a treadmill is not satisfying.

[shardian]

Being skinny is not equal to healthy living.

I'm sure you've read about Michael Phelps eating habits, right? Have you also read about Mark Spitz later life health problems? The dude's cholesterol is thru the roof.

Those fad diets catch up with you later in life. They confuse your body, and lead to mid-life health problems. Fluctuating your weight by considerable amounts is worse than just being overweight.

[ChadTower]

People keep talking about Phelps' "eating habits" based on one story.  Those aren't his eating habits.  That is what he eats in the middle of the Olympics.

[HaRuMaN]

And his training leading up to the Olympics...

[ChadTower]

And his training leading up to the Olympics...

Probably not nearly as much - lots more than even most pro athletes for sure but still not as much as you'd need when competing in all of those events in a short span.

[shardian]

And his training leading up to the Olympics...

Probably not nearly as much - lots more than even most pro athletes for sure but still not as much as you'd need when competing in all of those events in a short span.

He also does  the U.S. trials, the World Championships, and various other meets all year round. He is currently taking off a month or two, then it is back to the same training/eating regimen he always uses to train.

[ark_ader]

If you weren't a diabetic when you started Atkin's, you will be afterwards.

My plan essentially works out to low unrefined carbs, low fat, and lots of fruits and vegetables.  There's a wide list of food you can eat and you just stock your kitchen with foods from the list. 

That way, when you get hungry, you can just eat whatever you lay your hands on.

I don't think 50lbs in 3 weeks is possible unless a tumor was removed.  Besides, going from a 44 to squeezing into a 40?  No.  I've lost ~52lbs and I've gone down 8 pant sizes, not 2.  (sounds more like he lost 20 to me, which is typical)

Well the scales do not lie.  I would be happy with 20 pounds but it is indeed 50.  My pant sizes are not enough to justify the loss, as I did not plan ahead with documentation.  Last time I took a picture of my big gut and the newspaper of the day to show the date.  I enrolled in the Body For Life program until I found out how much the shakes cost...

I was thinking about what to do with my flap.  Yes the skin is drooping (and the stretch marks look yuck), giving me a false impression that I am not losing more.  The  thing is,  I cannot go by is the reaction of my friends.  They just don't see it.  I left for the US in December with the same weight as I am now.  I came back in July looking like I was 9 months pregnant.  When I walked I had a shadow.  It was embarrassing.  My immediate family are impressed but that is as far as it goes.  I lost 20 lbs on the first week, which I figured as water.  Heck you drink a lot of soda in 115F heat. My waist was 44-45 when I started Atkins.

I was curious and weighed in today at 18 stone 10 pounds.  I didn't trust my scales at home so I went to the Pharmacy (Chemist) and got on there height weight mass scale at 50p a pop.  You obviously cannot strip in public so I took my shoes off and figured the weight of my clothes and it was sure near as damn is to swear.

I still have a way to go, and I keep up the exercise.  it might sound like I'm blowing my own trumpet here, but with the myth that Atkins is a joke and doesn't work, is BS.  It does work, you just have to be honest with yourself and stick to the menu.  I originally posted this to encourage those out there who are clinically obese, to get back to their original shape. 

I wish I had the remote control like on the movie CLICK.  But I still have to be kind and rewind a few more weeks.  While I'm on the topic:  Stomach Crunches.  Is it worth it, how many and will I put my back out?   

[HaRuMaN]

it might sound like I'm blowing my own trumpet here, but with the myth that Atkins is a joke and doesn't work, is BS.  It does work, you just have to be honest with yourself and stick to the menu.

Sure it works...  it just kills you in the process...

[patrickl]

The thing with diets is, they ALL work. That's why there are so many of them. Just paying attention to what you eat and banning a portion of your regular diet is enough. Some are more damaging to your body/social life than others.

The trouble is that diets don't work on the longer term.

[patrickl]

The trouble is that diets don't work on the longer term.

It may be different in the third world, but in America we've become so 'health conscious' that you can eat virtually anywhere and stay healthy.  I think it's simply a matter of being informed over what you're doing to yourself and making decisions and choices accordingly. 

Of course I forgot, in the US no one is overweight 

My point was that people lose weight in a hurry and they gain the weight at the same pace. Indeed you should just stay conscious of what you eat at all times. I don;t think it really matters what you eat. There were doctors who went on a meat only diet for half a year, also on a veggie only diet. The body just seems to cope with whatever you feed it.

So indeed you can stay fine wherever you eat. A Dutch reporter did the Super Size Me thing. He ate only at McDonalds for a month. He stuck to a normal caloric intake (instead of consuming 5000 kcal a day like the American reporter). His health actually improved.

[Jdurg]

It's all about portion control.  As I've gotten older, my metabolism has slowed down considerably as one would expect.  I've found that I've had to cut back largely on the portions I eat in order to stop weight gain.  Instead of eating four pieces of pizza, I eat two.  I don't snack anymore, and by cutting back on the amount of food I eat my food lasts longer and I don't put on weight as much.  Where before buying a pizza meant maybe one meal and a snack, now a pizza will last me three or more meals so I get more food for my money in a sense.

[ChadTower]

It may be different in the third world, but in America we've become so 'health conscious' that you can eat virtually anywhere and stay healthy.  I think it's simply a matter of being informed over what you're doing to yourself and making decisions and choices accordingly. 

The problem most people run into with that, or maybe I should say biggest excuse, is that it's cheaper to eat crap than it is to eat healthy.  There are a whole lot of people who give up fast on dietary changes because they'd rather pay $6 for an extra value meal than $7.50 for a Boston Market meal.

[Ummon]

It may be different in the third world, but in America we've become so 'health conscious' that you can eat virtually anywhere and stay healthy.  I think it's simply a matter of being informed over what you're doing to yourself and making decisions and choices accordingly. 

The problem most people run into with that, or maybe I should say biggest excuse, is that it's cheaper to eat crap than it is to eat healthy.  There are a whole lot of people who give up fast on dietary changes because they'd rather pay $6 for an extra value meal than $7.50 for a Boston Market meal.

Which isn't necessarily that much better. And what's 'healthy'? It's actually really easy - BUT for most it isn't because of the complicatedness of their lives and American culture. What to do?

[Samstag]

It may be different in the third world, but in America we've become so 'health conscious' that you can eat virtually anywhere and stay healthy.  I think it's simply a matter of being informed over what you're doing to yourself and making decisions and choices accordingly. 

I've been to a lot of different countries (none of them third world) and I'd say the "healthy" menu stuff in any American restaurant is less healthy than any random offering elsewhere.

Except Bavaria.  Those guys can make twinkies look like a healthy alternative.

[ChadTower]

For the last 1000 years grandmas have been saying that if you get off your butt your butt will get off you.  Why is it any different now?

[Jdurg]

It may be different in the third world, but in America we've become so 'health conscious' that you can eat virtually anywhere and stay healthy.  I think it's simply a matter of being informed over what you're doing to yourself and making decisions and choices accordingly. 

I've been to a lot of different countries (none of them third world) and I'd say the "healthy" menu stuff in any American restaurant is less healthy than any random offering elsewhere.

Except Bavaria.  Those guys can make twinkies look like a healthy alternative.

I've been to Brussels in Belgium, and I can't really say that they have "healthy" food there.  They have DAMN GOOD food there, but I wouldn't call it healthy.  The thing is, I didn't see one single fat person in the entire week I was there.  The Belgian Waffles were to kill for, the french influence in food was insane, and the amount of chocolate and beer floating around was incredible.  The thing is, the service was slow so that you had to sit and slowly eat your food and in the end, the portion sizes are about half of what we have here in the USA.  So by cutting back on the amount of food you eat, you can still eat somewhat unhealthy food and enjoy it.  I LOVED Brussels and desperately want to go back.

[patrickl]

The difference is probably in portion size. You can eat unhealthy crap, but if you don't eat too much of it you still won't gain weight.

I've eaten in restaurants all over the US and portions tend to be twice the size of the portions served in European restaurants. If you finish your plate in the US you will gain a lot of weight pretty fast. I guess the doggy bag is a good alternative, but if the plate is filled with too much food then people tend to eat too much.

The weirdest thing I got was a free refil cup at some burger place off a highway. It was a 1 liter cardboard bucket that I could refil as often as I wanted. I can't imagine drinking more than a liter of soda in one go. There were families there that did refil their buckets though.

[ark_ader]

Last time I went on a "Diet" was Bill Phillip's Body for Life.  I followed his guide and I did lose weight but over a much longer period.  I went to the gym 5 times a day with cardio and swimming with weight training every other day.  I had good muscle tone and a reduced urge to snack.  This was nothing like Atkins.

Meal portion was rice and peas and chicken 3 times a day every 4 hours with a Breakfast shake and a sensible evening meal.  The portion was fist sized, and I could snack on celery or cheese strings.  I got myself down from 300 lbs to 248 lbs in 7 months. 

But with Atkins I cut to the chase and did it in 3 weeks.  BTW I just checked and I'm 17 st. 6 lbs after 4 weeks that is 13.5 pounds a week.    I can fit into my old suit!

I'll stay on this puppy for another 4 weeks to see if I can keep it up.  No real side effects, except bad breath, and the odd fainting episode because I did not eat lunch on time yesterday - oops.    

I tried some of the crunches and from what I read it should help burn some more fat.  25 to start, with 50 my goal.

I do want to hear of your success stories, so get dieting and posting - you can do it!. 

But see your doctor first.  I didn't but that is not good advice, just don't let the doc talk you out of it though

[Xiaou2]

 
 China and Japan have a very low count of obese citizens.    They also look about
10+ years younger than the typical good looking westerner.

 They eat rice and noodles in decent quantities... Yet dont gain massive weight.
Why?


 I believe the real killer is fat content.   Too many people are snacking on high fat
foods and snacks such as:  Cheese, salad dressings, Ice cream, candy bars,
French Fries, etc.

 They also do not overeat meat.  Meat is mixed sparingly with rice and veggies.


 As far as I understand it... A sugar is pretty easy to digest and turn into instant energy.   If not needed... it can eventually turn into fat... but that process takes a good deal of energy to accomplish..  thus not much will be added this way.

 However.... if you eat a dose of Fat,  it seems like it does not even need to be
converted.   It simply just breaks down and re-collects in your body elsewhere.

 To burn fat off... takes a lot more workout than to burn the same portion of
instant energy sugars.


  If you took someone who drunk 5 glasses of whole milk every day,
vs a person who drank 5 sodas a day,   who do you think will get fatter faster?


 Of course... on the other end of the spectrum... If you take a guy who eats one
high fat Ice cream a week... and a guy who has the eqivilent  10 liters of
soda a day, every day...   then obviously the guy who eats the one fatty treat will
not gain as much as the other person who is taking in way too many calories.

 The problem then is realistic portion control.    Many people have both
problems.   They eat High fatty foods.. AND eat Massive quantities.


 There arnt enough hours in most peoples day to exercise off all the fat and
massive calorie intake that most of these overweight people take in.

 Exercise will surely help burn off weight... but... you cant expect to lose much
if you just keep stuffing more crap in.   And obviously... if you are working out, you are
probably going to feel more hunger.   So... will you then grab a pizza?  or go
for a 10 lb salad with 1/3 bottle of high fat dressing topped with a 2" cube worth
of cheese?   Or will you continue to eat low meals with the same frequency, same
portion size... and maintain lowfat intake?

 You can lose fat the healthy way.... or do it the extreme way.  However, no matter
which way you do it...  you are more than likely to put all that weight right back
on unless you change your learned eating habits.   

The difference is... if you lose weight unhealthily.. and then gain it back.. and repeat
that process again and again... you just may take years off your lifespan.  And or
worse... have need for dangerous surgeries... and lifelong health issues.

[ark_ader]

 China and Japan have a very low count of obese citizens.    They also look about
10+ years younger than the typical good looking westerner.

 They eat rice and noodles in decent quantities... Yet dont gain massive weight.
Why?


 I believe the real killer is fat content.   Too many people are snacking on high fat
foods and snacks such as:  Cheese, salad dressings, Ice cream, candy bars,
French Fries, etc.

 They also do not overeat meat.  Meat is mixed sparingly with rice and veggies.


 As far as I understand it... A sugar is pretty easy to digest and turn into instant energy.   If not needed... it can eventually turn into fat... but that process takes a good deal of energy to accomplish..  thus not much will be added this way.

 However.... if you eat a dose of Fat,  it seems like it does not even need to be
converted.   It simply just breaks down and re-collects in your body elsewhere.

 To burn fat off... takes a lot more workout than to burn the same portion of
instant energy sugars.


  If you took someone who drunk 5 glasses of whole milk every day,
vs a person who drank 5 sodas a day,   who do you think will get fatter faster?


 Of course... on the other end of the spectrum... If you take a guy who eats one
high fat Ice cream a week... and a guy who has the eqivilent  10 liters of
soda a day, every day...   then obviously the guy who eats the one fatty treat will
not gain as much as the other person who is taking in way too many calories.

 The problem then is realistic portion control.    Many people have both
problems.   They eat High fatty foods.. AND eat Massive quantities.


 There arnt enough hours in most peoples day to exercise off all the fat and
massive calorie intake that most of these overweight people take in.

 Exercise will surely help burn off weight... but... you cant expect to lose much
if you just keep stuffing more crap in.   And obviously... if you are working out, you are
probably going to feel more hunger.   So... will you then grab a pizza?  or go
for a 10 lb salad with 1/3 bottle of high fat dressing topped with a 2" cube worth
of cheese?   Or will you continue to eat low meals with the same frequency, same
portion size... and maintain lowfat intake?

 You can lose fat the healthy way.... or do it the extreme way.  However, no matter
which way you do it...  you are more than likely to put all that weight right back
on unless you change your learned eating habits.   

The difference is... if you lose weight unhealthily.. and then gain it back.. and repeat
that process again and again... you just may take years off your lifespan.  And or
worse... have need for dangerous surgeries... and lifelong health issues.

What year are you thinking the above relates to?   

Orientals recently have the highest level of diabetes ever seen.  In the UK you see posters asking if your are Asian, over 40 with a weight size of 37 or more you might have type 2 diabetes.  most of the orientals here in the UK are older with huge waistlines.  Only the younger orientals are thin or kind of thin.

http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/newsandevents/pressreleases/worrying_failure_to/

Maybe if all these guys went on my Atkins Induction Diet earlier, we would see a reduction of cases of Type 2 Diabetes. 

Sorry Xiaou2 you need to back up some of your comments with real world statistics.  I'm on a high fat diet, and I'm losing my body fat a stone a week.  Rice and Pasta makes you fat.  The old saying that you will never find a fat Chinese man by eating rice, isn't accurate.  The average Chinese man is eating a small bowl once a day with some protein a few times a week.  I'm sure there are more Chinese getting less than that.  More like millions in borderline starvation.  Don't forget to add Burmese into the equation.  I wonder what they are getting...

The current surge in city wealth contradicts how many live in rural China.  Asian males might look younger, but Asian females age quicker.  Could be diet or living conditions related too.

Over a billion Chinese and you come out with that comment?   Please at least could you share with us your source of information?  I would like to learn more about your source of information.   

[Ummon]

The difference is probably in portion size. You can eat unhealthy crap, but if you don't eat too much of it you still won't gain weight.

I've eaten in restaurants all over the US and portions tend to be twice the size of the portions served in European restaurants. If you finish your plate in the US you will gain a lot of weight pretty fast. I guess the doggy bag is a good alternative, but if the plate is filled with too much food then people tend to eat too much.

The weirdest thing I got was a free refil cup at some burger place off a highway. It was a 1 liter cardboard bucket that I could refil as often as I wanted. I can't imagine drinking more than a liter of soda in one go. There were families there that did refil their buckets though.

Skinny or fat with no muscle equals the same.

 I believe the real killer is fat content.  

I think it's not.

 China and Japan have a very low count of obese citizens.    They also look about
10+ years younger than the typical good looking westerner.

 They eat rice and noodles in decent quantities... Yet dont gain massive weight.
Why?


 I believe the real killer is fat content.   Too many people are snacking on high fat
foods and snacks such as:  Cheese, salad dressings, Ice cream, candy bars,
French Fries, etc.

 They also do not overeat meat.  Meat is mixed sparingly with rice and veggies.


 As far as I understand it... A sugar is pretty easy to digest and turn into instant energy.   If not needed... it can eventually turn into fat... but that process takes a good deal of energy to accomplish..  thus not much will be added this way.

 However.... if you eat a dose of Fat,  it seems like it does not even need to be
converted.   It simply just breaks down and re-collects in your body elsewhere.

 To burn fat off... takes a lot more workout than to burn the same portion of
instant energy sugars.


  If you took someone who drunk 5 glasses of whole milk every day,
vs a person who drank 5 sodas a day,   who do you think will get fatter faster?


 Of course... on the other end of the spectrum... If you take a guy who eats one
high fat Ice cream a week... and a guy who has the eqivilent  10 liters of
soda a day, every day...   then obviously the guy who eats the one fatty treat will
not gain as much as the other person who is taking in way too many calories.

 The problem then is realistic portion control.    Many people have both
problems.   They eat High fatty foods.. AND eat Massive quantities.


 There arnt enough hours in most peoples day to exercise off all the fat and
massive calorie intake that most of these overweight people take in.

 Exercise will surely help burn off weight... but... you cant expect to lose much
if you just keep stuffing more crap in.   And obviously... if you are working out, you are
probably going to feel more hunger.   So... will you then grab a pizza?  or go
for a 10 lb salad with 1/3 bottle of high fat dressing topped with a 2" cube worth
of cheese?   Or will you continue to eat low meals with the same frequency, same
portion size... and maintain lowfat intake?

 You can lose fat the healthy way.... or do it the extreme way.  However, no matter
which way you do it...  you are more than likely to put all that weight right back
on unless you change your learned eating habits.   

The difference is... if you lose weight unhealthily.. and then gain it back.. and repeat
that process again and again... you just may take years off your lifespan.  And or
worse... have need for dangerous surgeries... and lifelong health issues.

What year are you thinking the above relates to?  

Orientals recently have the highest level of diabetes ever seen.  In the UK you see posters asking if your are Asian, over 40 with a weight size of 37 or more you might have type 2 diabetes.  most of the orientals here in the UK are older with huge waistlines.  Only the younger orientals are thin or kind of thin.

http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/newsandevents/pressreleases/worrying_failure_to/

Maybe if all these guys went on my Atkins Induction Diet earlier, we would see a reduction of cases of Type 2 Diabetes. 

Sorry Xiaou2 you need to back up some of your comments with real world statistics. 

I'm not supporting him, per se, but I think he's talking about indigenous people, not those in western countries.

[Jdurg]

BMI is one of the most fallable, incorrect measurements of overall health out there.  Nearly all, if not all, body builders have BMI's that consider them obese.  Muscle is MUCH more dense than fat is.  % body fat is the most proper determination of health out there.  A high % of body fat is more unhealthy than a high BMI.  You can have a proper BMI, but if your body fat percentage is too high you are in MUCH worse shape than someone with a high BMI and low body fat percentage.

The general measure of whether you're fat or not is how many calories you intake versus how many you spend.  If you ingest 5,000 Calories every day and only exert 4,000 Calories, those extra 1,000 Calories need to go somewhere and they go into you fat cells as your body stores them.  It doesn't matter WHERE they come from.  It's just that one gram of fat has more calories than one gram of protein does.  So if your intake is mostly fat, your intake has more calories than the same intake of protein does.

That's how the Atkin's Diet works.  You take in probably an equal amount of calories, but so much more of it is protein rather than fat and carbohydrates that you lose weight.  Still, if you intake a larger number of calories than you spend, you'll put on weight.

[ChadTower]

It should be noted that long term over-ingestion of protein in balance terms damages the kidneys.  Ask an older bobybuilder to pee sometime and see what happens to them as they get older.  Ever notice you never meet a 70 year old guy who used to be a bodybuilder?  It's not so different, though it takes a lot longer, than what alcohol does to the liver.  People are omnivores for a reason.

[Xiaou2]

Sorry Xiaou2 you need to back up some of your comments with real world statistics.

 Where?  From highly Motivated sources?  Few figures are trustworthy Imop.
Youve already misinterpreted/twisted my meaning with statistics that do not
relate to what I was posting/meaning.    Meaning... Asians in Asian countries.  Not
Asians in western/european places where the diet/intake is crap.

 

I'm on a high fat diet, and I'm losing my body fat a stone a week.

 And clogging your arteries?  And raising your blood pressure?  Damaging the
internals?   A good tradeoff?


 

Rice and Pasta makes you fat.

 Nearly ANYTHING will make you fat if you eat enough of it.   The point was already
posted... that a gram of fat will have more calories than a gram of Rice or Pasta.

The old saying that you will never find a fat Chinese man by eating rice, isn't accurate.  The average Chinese man is eating a small bowl once a day with some protein a few times a week.  I'm sure there are more Chinese getting less than that.  More like millions in borderline starvation.  Don't forget to add Burmese into the equation.  I wonder what they are getting...

  I personally have had a few Chinese girlfriends.   One GF and her mother ate rice
all the time.  They were skinny as hell. 

 Ive also been to Taiwan.   Ive seen the things they ate... and ate them too.  I was
there for an entire month.   It was very rare to see anyone overweight...  in fact...
I cant even recall any.   (and they even have some western shops/foods over there)

 On the way to Taiwan, I had to stop over in Japan.   Very similar foods.  Always some
rice or noodles with a dish.   Very few overweight people.

 Not all of these people are as dirt poor as you think.    The cost of living in Taiwan is
very low.  A good meal is can be had for almost no money at all... and that is in their
own currency, and not the USD. 


 Granted.. some weight issues are Genetic.  However.. the shear mass of the population
and the lack of them being overweight says a Lot about how good their diet is
compared to Western or European places.

The current surge in city wealth contradicts how many live in rural China.  Asian males might look younger, but Asian females age quicker.  Could be diet or living conditions related too.

 Ive heard this is so in places like the Philippines.  (probably too much UV damages)  However, Ive not seen this in places like China or Japan.


 You Could lose weight eating Burger King Burgers...  But you would have to run
like 40 miles a day...   and in the end.. the crap would end up killing you internally.
(skinny as bones... to bones in an early grave)

[protokatie]

So indeed you can stay fine wherever you eat. A Dutch reporter did the Super Size Me thing. He ate only at McDonalds for a month. He stuck to a normal caloric intake (instead of consuming 5000 kcal a day like the American reporter). His health actually improved.

Got a link for the vid on that? It would be interesting to compare the two. I would think the way the American did it would be a bit more applicable, as his rules where basically 3 meals a day (Main, side, and beverage) and this would be more like what someone who for some odd reason could only eat a McD's would tend to order. I could easily see how following a reasonable caloric intake would be feasible, but I don't see how one would be able to eat 3 meals at McD's (different meals each day) and stay within that limit....

[patrickl]

So indeed you can stay fine wherever you eat. A Dutch reporter did the Super Size Me thing. He ate only at McDonalds for a month. He stuck to a normal caloric intake (instead of consuming 5000 kcal a day like the American reporter). His health actually improved.

Got a link for the vid on that? It would be interesting to compare the two. I would think the way the American did it would be a bit more applicable, as his rules where basically 3 meals a day (Main, side, and beverage) and this would be more like what someone who for some odd reason could only eat a McD's would tend to order. I could easily see how following a reasonable caloric intake would be feasible, but I don't see how one would be able to eat 3 meals at McD's (different meals each day) and stay within that limit....

It was a dutch newspaper reporter. He also went for 3 meals a day and only from McDonalds. The difference was that he picked items from the menu so his combined total caloric intake was even lower than normal. He also didn't supersize things.

His name is Wim Meij and he wrote it for the "Algemeen Dagblad" (AD). Which is one of the biger newspapers in the Netherlands.

Actually when you check the calories for the different McDonalds menu items then it's not that difficult to stick with a certain upper limit. He had help from a dietician though (to make sure he ate varied enough too).

IIRC there was also Swedish research replicating the test in "lab conditions".

[ark_ader]

I've been to the doc already.

He wants me to keep on the diet if I am losing weight.  I have a low cholesterol level, and my blood sugar is normal.  So I guess the Quincy MDs amongst you will have to figure something else to prove my diet wrong.

Also he commended me on my resolve and sacrifice for being on such a strict regimen.  Willpower is key.

If I start to plateau this week, I'll have to adjust my cardio from walking to running and keep off the cheese.

Still sitting at 17.5 stone though.   

[HaRuMaN]

Health Concerns

No published studies have addressed the long-term effects of low-carbohydrate diets. The longest studies have followed dieters for only 12 months, which is not sufficient to assess whether dieters are at risk for the problems seen in studies of general populations consuming large amounts of meat, fatty dairy products, and the cholesterol, saturated fat, and animal protein they contain. However, long-term studies of the general population following a variety of diets and short-term studies of individuals on low-carbohydrate diets raise important concerns, which are outlined below:

1. Colon cancer. Colon cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in North America and Europe and is among the leading causes of cancer-related mortality. Long-term daily intake of meat, particularly red meat, such as beef, pork, or lamb (as is common in Western countries), is associated with approximately a three-fold increased risk of colon cancer.14,15

The 1997 report of the World Cancer Research Fund and American Institute for Cancer Research, entitled Food, Nutrition, and the Prevention of Cancer, concluded that, based on available evidence, diets high in red meat are probable contributors to colon cancer risk. Studies of large populations published in subsequent years arrived at similar conclusions.16 In addition, meat-heavy diets are often low in dietary fiber, which protects against cancer.17 Low-carbohydrate diets typically include red meats among their foods recommended for daily consumption, but no studies have yet been conducted to see whether low-carbohydrate dieters do indeed have the same increased long-term cancer risk seen with other populations eating meat-heavy diets.

2. Heart disease. Generally speaking, weight loss tends to reduce cholesterol levels, while saturated fat and cholesterol tend to raise them.18,19 Consequently, the effect on cholesterol levels of a low-carbohydrate weight-loss diet that includes saturated fat and cholesterol can vary from person to person.5,20-23 In some studies, about 30% of people on low-carbohydrate diets showed an increase in cholesterol levels, despite their weight loss.21,23

In a low-carbohydrate diet study conducted at Duke University, funded by the Atkins Center for Complementary Medicine, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels fell in 29 of the 41 study completers, as would be expected from weight loss along with the various supplements used in the study. However, LDL levels rose in 12 participants by an average of 18 mg/dl (the increases ranged from 4 to 53 mg/dl). One participant had an LDL increase from 123 mg/dl to 225 mg/dl (normal LDL values are typically described as <100 mg/dl, although some investigators have called for lower limits). The participant was then treated with a “cholesterol-lowering nutritional supplement,” and the LDL dropped to 176 mg/dl, which is still far above recommended levels.21 In a subsequent Duke University study, two low-carbohydrate diet participants dropped out of the study because of elevated serum lipid levels (one had an increase in LDL cholesterol from 182 mg/dl to 219 mg/dl in four weeks; the second had an increase from 184 mg/dl to 283 mg/dl in three months), and a third developed chest pain and was subsequently diagnosed with coronary heart disease. In 30 percent of participants, LDL cholesterol increased by more than 10 percent.23 The effect of the diet on HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels is not consistent.5,6,20

We recommend caution when reading favorable press accounts of the effect of low-carbohydrate diets on cholesterol levels. The two Duke University studies cited above are sometimes cited as evidence that low-carbohydrate diets reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and increase HDL (“good”) cholesterol. However, these studies did not test a low-carbohydrate diet alone. Rather they tested the diet along with regular exercise and various nutritional supplements, including flax oil, borage oil, fish oil, vitamin E, chromium picolinate, and a “multivitamin formula” containing niacin, vitamin C, and other nutrients. Exercise and supplements would be expected to influence cholesterol levels on their own, apart from the effects of the diet.21,23

One particular danger of the press promotion of low-carbohydrate diets is the suggestion that meats and dairy products that are high in saturated fat and cholesterol do not pose the risks that scientists have long said they do. However, abundant evidence shows the risks of such foods.19 In fact, some evidence suggests that even a single fatty meal (e.g., a ham-and-cheese sandwich, whole milk, and ice cream) may adversely affect the compliance of arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks after meals.24 Low-carbohydrate diet promoters have argued that the risks of diets high in saturated fat and cholesterol may be disregarded when the diet is also very low in carbohydrate. However, no long-term studies have tested this conjecture.

Furthermore, a study of nearly 30,000 women followed for 15 years found that coronary heart disease death was associated with intakes of red meat and dairy products when substituted for servings of carbohydrates. Coronary heart disease death was significantly reduced when animal protein was replaced with vegetable protein, leading the authors to conclude that "Long-term adherence to high-protein diets, without discrimination toward protein source, may have potentially adverse health consequences."33

3. Impaired kidney function. Studies of the Atkins diet and other low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets have not been of sufficient duration to evaluate their potential to affect kidney function. However, reason for concern comes from studies of the general population, in which diets high in animal protein are associated with reduced kidney function over time. Harvard researchers reported that animal protein intake is associated with decline in kidney function, based on observations in 1,624 women participating in the Nurses’ Health Study.24 The good news is that the damage to the kidneys was found only in those who already had reduced kidney function at the study’s outset. The bad news is that as many as one in four adults in the United States may already have reduced kidney function, and the percentage is considerably higher for those over forty or who have hypertension. Mild kidney impairment is also found in approximately 40% of individuals with diabetes.25 This suggests that many people who have kidney problems are unaware of that fact and do not realize that high-protein diets may put them at risk for further deterioration. The kidney-damaging effect was seen only with animal protein. Plant protein had no harmful effect.24

The American Academy of Family Physicians notes that high animal protein intake is largely responsible for the high prevalence of kidney stones in the United States and other developed countries and recommends protein restriction for the prevention of recurrent kidney stones.26

4. Complications of diabetes. In diabetes, kidney and heart problems are particularly common. The use of diets that may further tax the kidneys and may reduce arterial compliance is not recommended.

No studies of low-carbohydrate diets have been of sufficient duration to assess their potential long-term effects on individuals with diabetes. Because controlling blood cholesterol levels and protecting kidney function are essential for individuals with diabetes, health authorities recommend choosing diets that are rich in vegetables and fruits, while limiting saturated fat, cholesterol, and animal protein.27

5. Osteoporosis. High intake of animal protein is known to encourage urinary calcium losses and has been shown to be associated with increased fracture risk in research studies involving various populations.28,29 Two studies have examined the effects of low-carbohydrate diets on calcium losses. A Duke University study showed that urinary calcium losses rose significantly in individuals following a low-carbohydrate, high animal-protein diet for six months.15 Similarly, the loss of calcium was demonstrated in a low-carbohydrate diet study at the University of Texas. In the maintenance phase of the diet, urinary calcium losses were 55% higher than normal. The researchers concluded that the diet presents a marked acid load to the kidney, increases the risk for kidney stones, and may increase the risk for bone loss.30 No studies of low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets have yet been of sufficient duration to measure long-term bone loss.

6. Other adverse effects. The following adverse effects were noted in a six-month study of a low-carbohydrate diet, in addition to the effects on cholesterol levels noted above:23

    Constipation 68%
    Headache 60%
    Bad breath 38%
    Muscle cramps 35%
    Diarrhea 23%
    General weakness 25%

[ark_ader]

I think you can use that in any study.  Read the top paragraph, well read the whole thing.  If I had diabetes, if I had heart issues, if if if.

I think what you posted goes with the cranks who are still fat, and wasting money on Jenny Craig eating the twinkies at midnight, instead of taking the strict challenge and keep yourself fit and healthy.

And the study only is for 12 months.  Who said I was going to stay on this diet for more than 12 months?  I'm no monk and I like my Pizza.  I might stay on it for 6 months, but will get off the merry go round and branch out on OWL.

I'm over the hump anyway.  But if I get colon cancer then it will be from natural selection, not statistics from some wacked study.  Besides I know all about Crohns and Ulcerative Colitis.  Someone close to me has it, and I've already been checked. 

 

AND THIS GOES FOR EVERYONE WHO READS THIS:

Get yourself checked for anything to do with your colon or prostate.  If you have bowel problems see you doctor immediately. Do not suffer in silence. 

If you have prostate questions click here

Colon Cancer information here

[Jdurg]

I'm a diabetic (Type I for nearly 27 years now) and by nature have to eat a pretty low carb diet.  The only reason I don't have any complications is probably because my cholesterol is abnormally good.  Back in March when I had my yearly blood work done, my LDL was 48, my HDL was 105 and my triglycerides were 40!  While genetics caused my immune system to go crazy on my Beta cells, it also gave me my father's amazing cholesterol.  (The man eats so much bacon, cold cuts, fatty foods, etc. but has impeccable cholesterol).  The doctor said that long term studies have shown that diabetics with good cholesterol numbers show an amazingly low number of complications compared to those with normal, or above normal levels.

[ChadTower]

It's all that basement water. 

[ChadTower]

Snopes says differently.  Says he was under 200lb at 6' tall when he fell and gained 60lb while in the coma.  It's down near the bottom.

[ChadTower]

Of course, but it's pretty hard to fake medical records, which is what that weight figure is based on supposedly.  You also have to consider that almost nobody has a perfect cardiovascular system at 71.  Why they would even try to claim that is beyond me.  For all we know his ticket would have otherwise been up at 62... or 92.

[ark_ader]

It doesn't really matter does it?

He helped a lot of people.   He helped me.

I'm greatful, and wished he lived longer for me to personally thank him with a letter. 

[Xiaou2]

 To be honest... I could care less of Ark passed away at an early age.   

 I just dont like when Idiots advertise unhealthy choices to others.


 Even a very short time on this diet can take years off your life... and do irrepable
damages.   The damages will be swift - because of the concentration of the levels.
 
 The doctors will love you for it... because then they can get more appointments, drugs prescribed, and surgeries performed.    Mortitians will love it too.   Ohh,   and the Govt. will be thankful too...cause they probably will run out of money for social security soon.

 
 Funny thing is how he says that this will only be a one time thing.   More than
likely,  when he gets off the diet,  he will begin to gain the weight back.   Lets
say that in 5yrs... he is back to the same weight he started out at.   Will he
do such a diet every 5 yrs?!   

 The whole point here... is that if you cant control yourself NOW... then what
makes you think you can do it after the diet is over?

 Why not work on the source of the problem:  Eating smaller portions, Stop eating
late - only hours before sleeping,  Reduce cheese intake to almost minimum,  and stay
away from fatty salad dressings, creams, real butter, and other high fat items.
Oh... and also, get off your butt and do something active... such as DDR, Martial arts,
Yoga, Tennis, Jogging, or some other physical activity that makes the heart
beat heavily.


 It may take longer to lose the weight this way.  However, the process will let you
live life a lot longer, and in much better condition.   You will gain the true key to
staying reasonably thin,  with constant practice.   No more radical diets needed.

[patrickl]

My GF has been following the Dukan Diet (also called PROTAL) from Dr. Pierre Dukan. It's a low carb, low fat high protein diet. Basically she would only eat meat, low fat dairy products and fish (no fruits, vegetables, bread, fatty foods). It does work, but that seems obvious since she hardly could eat anything.

I never followed a diet. I don't need to. I tend to not eat too much, but if on occasion I do eat too much, I simply eat less the next day. I've basically been the same weight for the last 15 to 20 years.

[shardian]

Snopes says differently.  Says he was under 200lb at 6' tall when he fell and gained 60lb while in the coma.  It's down near the bottom.

Just curious, but how do you gain 60 lbs during a coma?!? Your diet is strictly controlled to match your needs, and you normally lose weight due to muscle atrophy. Did they accidentally hook him up to a McDonalds Milk Machine or something?

[HaRuMaN]

Not only that, but he was only in a coma for like a week or so before he died...

[shardian]

Ok, I read the snopes thing. I was thinking Edema (fluid retention), and apparently that was what it was. 'normal' coma patients don't get Edema. Edema is linked to heart conditions though.

[shardian]

I doubt, highly, that 60 pounds of fluid was pumped into him in a week.

You've apparently never seen anyone with severe edema.

[ark_ader]

Sounds like a conspiracy.   I'll call Mel Gibson.

On that note I'm down half a stone. 

Back to where I was before I started the Taco Bell and M&M diet. 

I still have issues with drinking 8 pints of water a day though...glug..glug..glug..

[Jdurg]

One thing the Atkins diet can do is provide control for obese folk who never had any before.  It causes them to pay attention to what they are eating and keep track of how much they are eating.  For an obese person who has had no control over what they ate, this can be a huge help.  When they get off the diet, they'll learn how to count calories and the amounts of fat and whatnot from the techniques they learned while on the diet.

[AtomSmasher]

One thing the Atkins diet can do is provide control for obese folk who never had any before.  It causes them to pay attention to what they are eating and keep track of how much they are eating.  For an obese person who has had no control over what they ate, this can be a huge help.  When they get off the diet, they'll learn how to count calories and the amounts of fat and whatnot from the techniques they learned while on the diet.

Atkins diet only has you counting carbs, and while they recommend to keep calories and fat down, they don't have you count them.  And just for clarity, I'm not saying the Atkins diet is bad, in fact I actually like it and have done it in the past, I'm just saying it doesn't teach you to count calories.

Actually for me I had a pretty good milestone in the past 8-9 months.  Pretty much my entire life I have been slowly gaining weight anytime I wasn't on a diet and exercise routine, but back in late January I decided to make a number of small changes to what I normally eat (mainly just smaller portions, less fast food, and more whole grains) and have been slowly losing weight ever since.  I've lost about 15lbs since January, which isn't much, but just the fact that I managed to change my diet just enough so that I'm slowly losing weight instead of gaining it was pretty important to me.

Pretty soon I plan on doing a fairly major diet, either with Atkins or ultra low calories, or maybe something else, I haven't decided yet and will consult my sister before I do anything (who is a nutritionist), to try and lose the majority of the weight in a much faster timeframe.  Now that I know how to eat a healthy normal diet, I'm confident that I'll be able to keep the weight off.

[patrickl]

Why not just keep with eating healthy and lose the weight slowly? Or just eat slighly less and lose it slightly faster? Or work out a bit while eating healthy?

Diets really are bad for your body. Besides, they don't work well in keeping the weight off. Your body will be ready to gain weight after you stop the diet because you stressed it out.

[ChadTower]

Why not just keep with eating healthy and lose the weight slowly? Or just eat slighly less and lose it slightly faster? Or work out a bit while eating healthy?

Because people want quick and temporary changes to their lifestyle.  Most people fail because they go right back to their old habits once the diet is over.  They aren't willing to do what needs to be done.

[AtomSmasher]

Why not just keep with eating healthy and lose the weight slowly? Or just eat slighly less and lose it slightly faster? Or work out a bit while eating healthy?

Diets really are bad for your body. Besides, they don't work well in keeping the weight off. Your body will be ready to gain weight after you stop the diet because you stressed it out.

Lets just say I'm real overweight, and even if I managed to speed the rate of my weight loss up a little bit, it would still take at least 8 years to get down to a good weight.

[AtomSmasher]

Why not just keep with eating healthy and lose the weight slowly? Or just eat slighly less and lose it slightly faster? Or work out a bit while eating healthy?

Because people want quick and temporary changes to their lifestyle.  Most people fail because they go right back to their old habits once the diet is over.  They aren't willing to do what needs to be done.

And now my "old habits" would be a healthy diet, so going back to my old habits once the diet it over is a good thing.

[ark_ader]

Why not just keep with eating healthy and lose the weight slowly? Or just eat slighly less and lose it slightly faster? Or work out a bit while eating healthy?

Diets really are bad for your body. Besides, they don't work well in keeping the weight off. Your body will be ready to gain weight after you stop the diet because you stressed it out.

Lets just say I'm real overweight, and even if I managed to speed the rate of my weight loss up a little bit, it would still take at least 8 years to get down to a good weight.

I have seen some things you have posted but that above statement is just  crap.  Get your head out of the sand - get on Induction, exercise, stick to it, and commit yourself to the very difficult challenge.  It sucks the first 6 weeks    but you will get over it. 

You will question everything about the diet yet soon will relax when you find out its tasty and filling, eventually getting into the groove.

You will feel better about yourself, have more confidence and less self conscious of your size.  Eight years?  More like 8 months, especially if you have a thyroid or a slow metabolism.  Everyone is different though. 

It can be cheaper than your current food bill, you will have to buy some new clothes, but you HAVE TO KEEP your old ones in the closet where you pass everyday to remind yourself to keep on track.

But if you want to lose body parts, get heart disease, die earlier then you will have only yourself to blame.  Get help - get thinner.  Don't do it for me, do it for yourself. 

........

I went to my local Pharmacy (Chemist) to have my weekly weigh in. I use one of those BMI weight ratio machines which cost extra, and I'm dumb enough to pay for it.  On the ticket it says my weight should be 9 stone =126 pounds to 13.5 stone = 189.  Eh? 

If I was 126 pounds, I would be seeking medical attention.  My mates would call me bony. Where do they get that information from? I'm going to write to the company who manufacturers the machines to see where they get their facts from. 

On the bottom of the ticket it says that if I'm over the BMI 38 (duh)  I should visit their website and go on THEIR diet.  Its the largest Pharmacy (Chemist) in the UK.  Which looks like they are giving misleading advice.

I have cut back on my cheese intake, and added an extra mile to my walk, and decided to stick on Induction for another six weeks.  I'm down to a size 38-39 from a size 46 (I goofed on my OP) which I'm so    happy.

I have 46 pounds left to go or like my wonderful misleading machine would like, 100 pounds.  Everyone is right about the food portion thing.  Its not a fad.  It is for life.   

Who wants to be thinner for Christmas?

[AtomSmasher]

Why not just keep with eating healthy and lose the weight slowly? Or just eat slighly less and lose it slightly faster? Or work out a bit while eating healthy?

Diets really are bad for your body. Besides, they don't work well in keeping the weight off. Your body will be ready to gain weight after you stop the diet because you stressed it out.

Lets just say I'm real overweight, and even if I managed to speed the rate of my weight loss up a little bit, it would still take at least 8 years to get down to a good weight.

I have seen some things you have posted but that above statement is just  crap.  Get your head out of the sand - get on Induction, exercise, stick to it, and commit yourself to the very difficult challenge.  It sucks the first 6 weeks    but you will get over it.

Umm, perhaps you missed my post just before that one where I said I was going to be doing Atkins (or some other diet) fairly soon.  My comment about it taking 8 years was in response to patrickl saying to keep doing what I'm doing (and perhaps eat slightly less or add a little more exercise to my routine) instead of going on a more extreme diet.  Right now I am very slowly losing weight, and if I managed to keep this same rate going, then it would take over 8 years to get to a good weight.  That is why I will be doing Atkins (or something similar) in order to get the weight off in only a year or so.

[ark_ader]

Why not just keep with eating healthy and lose the weight slowly? Or just eat slighly less and lose it slightly faster? Or work out a bit while eating healthy?

Diets really are bad for your body. Besides, they don't work well in keeping the weight off. Your body will be ready to gain weight after you stop the diet because you stressed it out.

Lets just say I'm real overweight, and even if I managed to speed the rate of my weight loss up a little bit, it would still take at least 8 years to get down to a good weight.

I have seen some things you have posted but that above statement is just  crap.  Get your head out of the sand - get on Induction, exercise, stick to it, and commit yourself to the very difficult challenge.  It sucks the first 6 weeks    but you will get over it.

Umm, perhaps you missed my post just before that one where I said I was going to be doing Atkins (or some other diet) fairly soon.  My comment about it taking 8 years was in response to patrickl saying to keep doing what I'm doing (and perhaps eat slightly less or add a little more exercise to my routine) instead of going on a more extreme diet.  Right now I am very slowly losing weight, and if I managed to keep this same rate going, then it would take over 8 years to get to a good weight.  That is why I will be doing Atkins (or something similar) in order to get the weight off in only a year or so.

Yeah that's what made me comment like I did. 

One minute you are going to be on a good habit diet, and the next you are overweight and 8 years later won't.

Anyhoo it is still great lesson on how anyone can benefit from Atkins, especially from a true disbeliever to a convert like me. 

Its a message anyone in the same situation can relate to, especially if they have nobody to encourage them.

Besides I will be periodically checking in on you to see how your progress is going. 

[AtomSmasher]

Yeah that's what made me comment like I did. 

One minute you are going to be on a good habit diet, and the next you are overweight and 8 years later won't.

I don't seem to understand what your saying then.  I basically said not being on a real diet was too slow of a weight loss, so I was going to go on Atkins.  You then said that was  because with Atkins I would lose the weight quickly, even though that's pretty much exctly what I was saying in the first place.

One minute I am overweight, but I'm eating heathy enough to slowly lose weight (15lbs was the total I've lost since January, as I mentioned), and the next I'm still overweight and it will take 8 years to lose the weight if I continue with my current rate of weight loss.  I want to lose weight faster then 25lbs a year, so I'm going to go on an actual diet to lose it quickly.  I'm not sure why this is difficult to understand.

I've done the Atkins diet before (as I briefly mentioned earlier), but I didn't keep the weight off, so this time I wanted to make sure the habits I would revert to after finishing the diet were good enough that I would keep the weight off.

[ark_ader]

Yeah that's what made me comment like I did. 

One minute you are going to be on a good habit diet, and the next you are overweight and 8 years later won't.

I don't seem to understand what your saying then.  I basically said not being on a real diet was too slow of a weight loss, so I was going to go on Atkins.  You then said that was  because with Atkins I would lose the weight quickly, even though that's pretty much exctly what I was saying in the first place.

One minute I am overweight, but I'm eating heathy enough to slowly lose weight (15lbs was the total I've lost since January, as I mentioned), and the next I'm still overweight and it will take 8 years to lose the weight if I continue with my current rate of weight loss.  I want to lose weight faster then 25lbs a year, so I'm going to go on an actual diet to lose it quickly.  I'm not sure why this is difficult to understand.

I've done the Atkins diet before (as I briefly mentioned earlier), but I didn't keep the weight off, so this time I wanted to make sure the habits I would revert to after finishing the diet were good enough that I would keep the weight off.

Yes I know.  That bit in the thread was confusing, unless you are making your point posting, in Tarantino style. 

[ark_ader]

Tell you what, ark, if you keep the weight off for a year, I'll send you the equivalent of $20 so you can go get yourself a steak.

Would be truly surprised if you can undo a lifetime of bad decisions in a month.

 

I smoked most of my youth and adult life until 3 years ago when I quit cold turkey.  $20 Steak next year... hmmm.

I like the meat part of the diet, but my tummy doesn't like the beef all the time, so i just eat chicken and lamb.  I would eat pork, but I'm distancing myself from it.  Someone told me pork is not really good for you.  Hopefully by next summer I'll have my brick BBQ built.  Thanks! 

[shmokes]

Have any of you considered surgery?  Incredibly fast and effective, and has loads of healthy side effects.  It probably costs slightly more than Dartful's DVDs, though.

[AtomSmasher]

Have any of you considered surgery?  Incredibly fast and effective, and has loads of healthy side effects.  It probably costs slightly more than Dartful's DVDs, though.

My Aunt had a gastric bypass about 5 or 6 years ago and like the result of most quick-fix diets, she's now gained most of the weight back.

[ChadTower]

Have any of you considered surgery?  Incredibly fast and effective, and has loads of healthy side effects.  It probably costs slightly more than Dartful's DVDs, though.

Lack of long term studies as to how that affects someone over the course of 30-40 years... no thanks.  Only in cases were the person clearly isn't going to make another 30 years otherwise.  It would probably be healthier in the long run to get dyssentary.

[HaRuMaN]

It would probably be healthier in the long run to get dyssentary.

Or a tapeworm...

[ark_ader]

   Another Stone and on the same ongoing diet. 

[ark_ader]

Had the doc run some tests, after you guys started me thinking about what I could be doing to myself.

I got them back the other day, and it was a clean bill of health.  The doc wants me to stay on it as it has worked very well.  The doc dismisses the speculation of internal damage from Atkins.

So, sorry guys.  Your advice to stay away from Atkins is completely unfounded.   

BTW I'm on Ongoing Weight Loss (OWL) which means more cauliflower and cabbage for dinner. 
Lost another 6lbs in 3 days.  The flab is disappearing and the muscle is showing.   

All I need now is my own TV show, and a new weight loss video game for the Dreamcast and I'm set. 

[patrickl]

Had the doc run some tests, after you guys started me thinking about what I could be doing to myself.

I got them back the other day, and it was a clean bill of health.  The doc wants me to stay on it as it has worked very well.  The doc dismisses the speculation of internal damage from Atkins.

So, sorry guys.  Your advice to stay away from Atkins is completely unfounded.   

Yeah the medical world is anonymous in it's support of Atkins diet:


Dangers of the Atkins Diet

One pays a substantial price from such a diet which generates chronic ketosis. Besides the increased cancer risk, the kidneys are placed under increased stress and will age more rapidly. It can take many, many years for such damage to be detected by blood tests and by the time it is detected, irreversible damage might have already occurred. The blood tests that monitor kidney function do not begin to increase until more than 80% of the kidneys have been destroyed.

Anwers.com: Atkins Diet

Opinion from the general medical community remains mixed on the Atkins diet, but is generally unfavorable. There have been no significant long-term scientific studies on the diet. A number of leading medical and health organizations, including the American Medical Association, American Dietetic Association (ADA), and the American Heart Association oppose it.

Atkins Diet Danger and Risks
Report claims "life-threatening" dangers of Atkins
Atkins 'Danger' Official
Doctors Reveal Dangers of Atkins Diet

[ark_ader]

Had the doc run some tests, after you guys started me thinking about what I could be doing to myself.

I got them back the other day, and it was a clean bill of health.  The doc wants me to stay on it as it has worked very well.  The doc dismisses the speculation of internal damage from Atkins.

So, sorry guys.  Your advice to stay away from Atkins is completely unfounded.   

Yeah the medical world is anonymous in it's support of Atkins diet:


Dangers of the Atkins Diet

One pays a substantial price from such a diet which generates chronic ketosis. Besides the increased cancer risk, the kidneys are placed under increased stress and will age more rapidly. It can take many, many years for such damage to be detected by blood tests and by the time it is detected, irreversible damage might have already occurred. The blood tests that monitor kidney function do not begin to increase until more than 80% of the kidneys have been destroyed.

Anwers.com: Atkins Diet

Opinion from the general medical community remains mixed on the Atkins diet, but is generally unfavorable. There have been no significant long-term scientific studies on the diet. A number of leading medical and health organizations, including the American Medical Association, American Dietetic Association (ADA), and the American Heart Association oppose it.

Atkins Diet Danger and Risks
Report claims "life-threatening" dangers of Atkins
Atkins 'Danger' Official
Doctors Reveal Dangers of Atkins Diet

Brought to you by those doctors that make all that money from scaring people with unsubstantiated drivel. 

[patrickl]

Brought to you by those doctors that make all that money from scaring people with unsubstantiated drivel. 

Lol, it's the exact opposite obviously. These doctors don't make a penny off saving you from ruining your body. They will actually make a lot of money off of you when you ruin your kidney.

On the other side, the people selling the diet of course have no vested interested in making sure the sheeple keep believing it's safe    They sell their products and books at cost or they give the profits to charity right?

BTW I thought only women were this illogical and susceptible to dietary fads. Nice to see feminism has come a long way.

[Ummon]

Eh, it's not good to be obese either.  If the guy loses weight and keeps it off through a reasonably balanced diet, then what's the problem?  Seems like by the end of his program, his diet won't be too far off from controlled normalcy.

Atkins has come a long way from its initial inception. All of these things are missing something(s) though.

[ark_ader]

Well it is a happy day for me.

I did it.  I managed to hit my target weight and do it on my 40th birthday too. 

I'm officially 226 lbs, and I can get into size 36 pants.  I was about 315 lbs and wore 44-46 size pants.

It was the hardest two months of my life, getting into a schedule, eating the same thing (yeah I did not experiment) and sticking to it.  The 6-8 pints of water torture I had to endure, the 6 mile a day walks, no comfort food. 

All my clothes don't fit.  My doctor gave me a 100% bill of health.  I can run up the stairs without losing breath.  Heck I'm 34 again!   I feel it.   

I want to thank all those who contributed to the thread, and gave their views on my journey to being slim.  I think I will go on with this diet for the next few years at least.  I want to start and tighten up the lose flab and get some muscles.  Heck even the ladies are checking me out -  success!

Maybe I will start a new thread up with flab to fab in 12 weeks.  I know I can do it, it is not hard and the diet is the same as this was. 

I hope this thread gives those who are overweight the "Push" to lose some pounds and get healthy again.  Its cool to go shopping again and buy off the rack, instead of asking where the big and tall department is. 

Now I have the extra energy to build my slim cab.  Can't wait! 

[AtomSmasher]

That is an absurd amount of weight to lose in 2 months.

Nicely done.   

[punxrus]

Two Woots for you man! Good job!

[ark_ader]

Well it has been nearly over 3 weeks, and I cannot put on the brakes.

I thought I would try to slow it down by having some chocolate and it made me very ill.

I've dropped another stone and currently on a runaway train.

I heard Christian Bale was 8 stone 5 lbs for the Machinist, so I have a bit more to go before deadman's curve.

[HaRuMaN]

I heard Christian Bale was 8 stone 5 lbs for the Machinist...

He looked very sickly in that movie.  I can't believe how much weight he lost for that role... 

[Ummon]

Okay, what the hell is a 'stone'?

[grantspain]

well i lost over a stone in a week after contracting norovirus,plus side all my old ben sherman shirts fit like a glove,minus side that pair of 34" jeans i bought a month ago fall around my arse

[DaveMMR]

Okay, what the hell is a 'stone'?

I was hoping someone would ask this.

Ark, I know I'm late to the thread but I hope you go (or had gone) to see a different doctor, unlike the one who was encouraging the diet and saw nothing wrong with dropping so much weight that fast.

[chopps]

Okay, what the hell is a 'stone'?

I was hoping someone would ask this.

16lbs    a unit of weight used in the UK

[ark_ader]

Okay, what the hell is a 'stone'?

I was hoping someone would ask this.

16lbs    a unit of weight used in the UK

14 lbs actually but I like 16lbs better. 

I just cannot eat anything sweet.  I had some honey the other day, and it nearly made me puke.  Same with potatoes.  I thought I made a mistake and bought yams.  The sugar content I tasted in those spuds was huge.  Same with bread and spaghetti. 

I had an Italian meal on Friday and I had the same meal out again when I got home.   

I used to love orange juice and apple juice.  Nope it doesn't like me now. 

Yep I guess a trip to the doctor is on my list. 

I probably have an imbalance somewhere or intolerance.   

Lucky me.

[havic626]

I lost 50 lbs on Atkins Induction in only 3 weeks.

Has anyone else have a success story with regard to a Atkins diet?

thats insane..........that doesnt sound good, thats to fast.  I droped 140lb it took me a little bit almost 2 years.  alot of lifting, biking, and just eating right.  was at 300 at age 16, before i turned 18 i was at 160.  funny thing is after i got married i got lazy and ate out too much at hit 250 that was when i was 22, but now after the break up, i got my life back together and im down to 200lb.  my goal is 180

[Dartful Dodger]

If you want to lose up to 15 pounds of unused weight quickly...

...cut off your head.

[Ummon]

I probably have an imbalance somewhere or intolerance.  

Lucky me.

What happens in extreme situations, anything physiologically related, is the body adapts to that and allows little else. Plus, some of those things are concentrated sources of sugar. (Orange juice is heavy on sugar AND acid.) I suggest gradually adding some things, like maybe a single bite of carrot or potatoe with a meal. If you aren't eating vegetables, have some peas and green beans. Try some broccoli, maybe. And just have a couple bites and see how it goes.

[ark_ader]

I eat cabbage and peas with my chicken with Broccoli and Brussel Sprouts, but if I digress, and have Fish and Chips, for example, then my whole system goes titsup.

I emailed my doctor and told him what is happening (I don't like going in and wasting his time) and he said to not to change and stick on the current diet and try to introduce more greens and leafy veggies.

I can do that, but not a pizza? 

Well Bill Phillips is right.  Body for Life = diet for life....

[HaRuMaN]

What you need is some 

[Moose13]

Congrats Ark. I'm on it for 4 weeks now, and I'm losing as well, but not at the rate you lost.
I'm down 29lbs, or I guess about 2 stone, in 4 weeks.
This is the 2nd go around on this diet for me. I did it about 12 years ago, and lost 40 in 2 months. Yeah I gained it back in about 7-8 years, but what do you expect when you go back to eating like a fat slob.
I want to lose about 25 more wich would put me at 215 or so. I hear ya when you said that the chocolate made you sick...you can't go crazy back on carbs in one day. It'll just keep you sitting on the bowl all day. It goes right through you.
I'm eating grilled chicken with brocolli, spinach or asparagus for most of my meals, with occasional red meat thrown in.
I'm not running/walking as much as you. I do walk a bit more to/from work. I get off the train a few stops early, get on a few stops later.
But most of my workouts come from, your gonna laugh.....Wii fit. I do about an hour a day, mostly the aerobics and jogging in place. I hope to start getting out of the house and jog some real terrain, instead of running in place in my basement. 6 miles would eb a bit much for me, I figure I'll start with 1/2 that. I think I'm going at a pretty good pace.

This all came from a bet at the local bar. Six guys $100 in, winner take all. Nothing like a little incentive to take the weight off. I'm in the lead by about 8 pounds or so. The contest ends Thanksgiving.

[ark_ader]

Congrats Ark. I'm on it for 4 weeks now, and I'm losing as well, but not at the rate you lost.
I'm down 29lbs, or I guess about 2 stone, in 4 weeks.
This is the 2nd go around on this diet for me. I did it about 12 years ago, and lost 40 in 2 months. Yeah I gained it back in about 7-8 years, but what do you expect when you go back to eating like a fat slob.
I want to lose about 25 more wich would put me at 215 or so. I hear ya when you said that the chocolate made you sick...you can't go crazy back on carbs in one day. It'll just keep you sitting on the bowl all day. It goes right through you.
I'm eating grilled chicken with brocolli, spinach or asparagus for most of my meals, with occasional red meat thrown in.
I'm not running/walking as much as you. I do walk a bit more to/from work. I get off the train a few stops early, get on a few stops later.
But most of my workouts come from, your gonna laugh.....Wii fit. I do about an hour a day, mostly the aerobics and jogging in place. I hope to start getting out of the house and jog some real terrain, instead of running in place in my basement. 6 miles would eb a bit much for me, I figure I'll start with 1/2 that. I think I'm going at a pretty good pace.

This all came from a bet at the local bar. Six guys $100 in, winner take all. Nothing like a little incentive to take the weight off. I'm in the lead by about 8 pounds or so. The contest ends Thanksgiving.

That is excellent news!!!

Keep going and you will reach your goal.   

[Dartful Dodger]

Hey man, if you take it seriously, Wii Fit is a bona fide workout.  It's amazing how much it's improved my posture and balance in just a week or so.

I still haven't tried Wii Fit.  I want to buy it for my niece so I can try it, but I can't find it anywhere.

[Ummon]

The format doesn't really matter. It's the exercise you're getting - though certainly some are better than others. Still, some is better than none.

Chocolate is a total 'depends' thing. (Um, no, don't think that.) Some people just can't handle chocolate; but a lot of it is full of sugar and other junk.

Sounds like you already have some good vegies there, ark, though it's hard to have enough so more should be good, too. No, pizza isn't anything like even eating starchy vegies like summer squash. The latter is still alkaline, whereas pizza is all acid.

[HaRuMaN]

Hey man, if you take it seriously, Wii Fit is a bona fide workout.  It's amazing how much it's improved my posture and balance in just a week or so.

I still haven't tried Wii Fit.  I want to buy it for my niece so I can try it, but I can't find it anywhere.

I have an extra one...   

[sel]

i used to be a fat ass 5 foot 200 pounds then i lost 80pounds on the Atkins diet so it really worked for me

[ark_ader]

i used to be a fat ass 5 foot 200 pounds then i lost 80pounds on the Atkins diet so it really worked for me

Its success stories like yours that give others that extra push towards healthy living.  You can eat healthy and exercise, but you still have to WANT to do it.  Portion control, avoiding sweets and alcohol you learn while on the journey.  Having that dream of being thin and getting off the rack clothes is sure hard to do these days.

Every time I turn on the TV or go into the local shop, all I get to see is sweets and chocolate products.  Real tough for those like us on a diet or trying to stay on a diet.

The additional benefit will be a healthier life when you get older.  Fat and old do not mix very well. 

[Dartful Dodger]

Hey man, if you take it seriously, Wii Fit is a bona fide workout.  It's amazing how much it's improved my posture and balance in just a week or so.

I still haven't tried Wii Fit.  I want to buy it for my niece so I can try it, but I can't find it anywhere.

I have an extra one...   

It's $120 so it's going to be a Christmas gift for my niece and her brother to share.  Depending on how the economy is and how much/little my Christmas bonus is, I might be asking my brother to chip in and we'll put both of our names on the card.

I can wait a few months before I panic and have to pay extra to have one shipped.
It also depends on how good Guitar Hero World Tour is, since they have RB for the Wii I might just get them the GHWT (guitar only bundle) for the Wii instead.

Jamming for a couple of hours should burn as many calories as doing Yoga for 10 minutes.

[ark_ader]

I'm still on Induction and I have lost another Stone = 14lbs.   

I have to wear a waist slimmer tube thingy to keep the excess skin from grossing me out every morning, but its worth it!  Stomach crunches and push-ups are a real PITA - but its working.

I have upped the distance daily from 3 miles to 4.8/5 miles a day and started jogging instead of walking.

As most of my American cousins will be kinda fat from the holidays turkey- its time to diet now before breaking that New Year Resolution!!!

I cannot wait to claim that $20!!!! 

[ChadTower]

I have upped the distance daily from 3 miles to 4.8/5 miles a day and started jogging instead of walking.

Out of everything else you've said I think this right here is the best news.  Losing the weight is one thing - being able to jog now is the real sign of increased health.  I've known so many people who lost a bunch of weight and never were able to resume real exercise because of how they did it.  Just be really careful with the jogging to gradually build up the distances from 1 mile at the most and never increase it more than 10% in a week.  Your knees, ankles, and shins have to build up a tolerance for the pounding.

[Ummon]

Free squats are good for conditioning the legs.  The excess skin thing happens because it stretches to accommodate the weight, but then just hangs out for a while when weight is lost too quickly. Eventually it'll contract back, though now you may know how women feel on that deal after pregnancy.

[ark_ader]

I have upped the distance daily from 3 miles to 4.8/5 miles a day and started jogging instead of walking.

Out of everything else you've said I think this right here is the best news.  Losing the weight is one thing - being able to jog now is the real sign of increased health.  I've known so many people who lost a bunch of weight and never were able to resume real exercise because of how they did it.  Just be really careful with the jogging to gradually build up the distances from 1 mile at the most and never increase it more than 10% in a week.  Your knees, ankles, and shins have to build up a tolerance for the pounding.

Thanks ChadTower - you are very correct about the jogging.  Way back when I was 25 I was able to jog with my brother for 3 miles a day, now with bad knees and Varicose from the excess weight, the effects have pulled me away from anything that close to being achieved.  But with some training and patience, I should get back to some level of cardio fitness.