Some time ago there was a thread about Atkins diet and exercise. I am wondering if anyone has some good advice about using this diet when you are an athlete. I work out every day, whether it's 4,000 yards in the pool, or 3-4 miles on the treadmill, or dryland training (weights). I went on Atkins a week ago to lose 10 pounds, so far I've lost 4 and feel terrific. Last Saturday I had a 5000-yard workout that was the best in ages. So much energy!
I'm just wondering if it's because I've added much-needed protein to my diet (I'm a carb junkie). A fellow athlete poo-poo's the Atkins plan and says it's a bunch of hogwash, that athletes HAVE to have some carbs and they won't kill you.
Anyone?
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Former Member
I just did a search in the site www.quackwatch.org, where the Atkins diet was listed as the Worst Diet for 2003. I quote: "The diet's popularity stems from the rapid weight loss that comes from water depletion of the cells and a breakdown of lean body mass. The body produces ketones from fat in an effort to fuel activity and slow the breakdown of lean tissue. Since Atkins' diet is deficient in many nutrients, he recommends an extensive list of vitamin and mineral supplements which he just happens to sell."
This does not sound like something I would recommend to a fellow swimmer. You, of course, as free to judge the validity of this assessment for yourself.
I just did a search in the site www.quackwatch.org, where the Atkins diet was listed as the Worst Diet for 2003. I quote: "The diet's popularity stems from the rapid weight loss that comes from water depletion of the cells and a breakdown of lean body mass. The body produces ketones from fat in an effort to fuel activity and slow the breakdown of lean tissue. Since Atkins' diet is deficient in many nutrients, he recommends an extensive list of vitamin and mineral supplements which he just happens to sell."
This does not sound like something I would recommend to a fellow swimmer. You, of course, as free to judge the validity of this assessment for yourself.
