My child is gaining too much weight and loves carbs. Can I put them on Atkins?
Children under the age of 18 should not be placed on any weight loss plan unless it is medically supervised. However, the Lifetime Maintenance phase of Atkins is an appropriate choice for almost everyone. This phase includes protein, natural fats, all vegetables, legumes, fruits and unrefined whole grains. Added sugars, trans fats and refined grains are to be avoided. The single most important thing one can do for an overweight child is wean him or her off sugar. Children can certainly have a limited amount of certain sugar substitutes. What usually makes children overweight is a diet high in refined carbs, sugary treats and sodas, and trans fats (hydrogenated oils) found in manufactured foods. If the entire family is on a whole foods diet, overweight children will better control their weight. The key is to stop any additional inappropriate weight gain and allow them to grow into the excess weight they already have. A regular intake of protein with each meal and snack along with decrea
