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of protein contains one carbohydrate. Even trace amounts less than one gram should be counted as a whole carbohydrate. Trust me; I've been monitoring my carbohydrate intake for 25 years.

A few years ago, I met an obese man claiming he had tried the Atkins diet and gotten sick. After reviewing his WOE, I found he was snacking on cheese cubes during induction, at the rate of two pounds per day! He was rushed to the hospital and forced to undergo a lower GI two weeks later.

The diet clearly states four ounces of cheese daily, yet everyone thinks they have a "Get Out of Jail Free" card for cheese. You do not. If you don't believe me, actually read the book. For the record, I skip the cheese. It does nothing but create mucous in the system and broccoli provides more calcium per serving along with other health benefits. He encourages exercise yet everyone thinks they can follow the diet and lie on the sofa. Many of the errors made in following the Atkins diet arise from folks that do not like to read.

The greatest pitfall is consuming too many carbohydrates for your respective phase: induction, ongoing weight loss, or maintenance. This occurs when folks become lax and think "eyeballing" their portions will work just fine. For example, a Denver omelet prepared with three eggs contains between 8-12 carbohydrates. During the two week induction phase, a person consuming this for breakfast has eaten one-half of his or her daily allowance.

A low carbohydrate lifestyle can also be maintained while monitoring fat intake. It requires discipline but can be accomplished. Common sense should be employed concerning cooking oils, butter, and cream. Most foods can be prepared using olive oil. Baking is another option many bypass. Grilling foods is another way to keep fat content low while controlling carbohydrate intake.

Finally, The limitations of the two week induction plan are not lifelong restrictions. As one maintaining a low carb lifestyle for over 25 years, I eat fruit every day and tons of green leafy vegetables (foregoing the dressing). My protein intake consists of lean meats, eggs, soybeans and other soy products, and protein shakes. Organic brown rice is also a diet staple. A perfectly well balanced lifestyle is achievable once you reach your goal weight.

Many fall off the wagon by failing to introduce carbohydrates back into their lifestyle correctly. The ramp up is gradual, usually 5-10 carbohydrates per week. These food choices should be fresh, unprocessed foods to ensure you are adding real carbohydrates, not hidden sugars. Each person's maintenance level is different. I can consume up to 100 carbohydrates daily and maintain my weight. Your critical carbohydrate level (CCL) may be different. Take time to find your CCL and abide by it throughout your life to maintain your lovely, new figure.

Success is possible. Read the book. Use common sense. Follow the plan. Count your carbohydrates. Use a food diary to keep track of what you consume. Exercise every day. Monitor your fat intake and make sure you consume the good ones. Drink plenty of water and last but not least, take time to have a happy thoughtit is the best medicine.

Learn more about this author, Cecilia Ball.
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