ATKINS DIET

You start with a low-carb diet designed for rapid weight loss. This lasts at least two weeks. During this phase, you’re on a protein, fat and very low-carb diet, including meat, seafood, eggs, cheese, some veggies, butter and oils. In contrast to the Dukan diet, Atkins allows unlimited fat and some green vegetables, during phase one. During the next three phases, the weight loss is likely to be more gradual, and regular exercise is encouraged. More carbs, fruit and vegetables are introduced to your diet, with the aim of working out what your ideal carb intake is to maintain a healthy weight for life. Phase one is designed to help you lose up to 7 kilos in two weeks, reducing 1 to 2 kilos during phase two.

PROS

You can lose weight very quickly, which can be motivating.

CONS

Initial side effects can include bad breath, a dry mouth, nausea and constipation from cutting out carbs and fiber. The high intake of saturated fat may increase your risk of heart disease, and there are concerns that a lack of fruit, vegetables and dairy products, and a high protein intake may affect bone and kidney health in the long term.

VERDICT

Rapid weight loss can be motivating, but it is unsustainable. By limiting fruit and vegetables, it contradicts all the healthy eating advice that we have tried so hard to pass on to people.