Carbohydrates

The Atkins Diet doesn't require calorie counting or portion control. You do need to track your carbs, though. It uses a system called net carbs. Net carbs is the total carbohydrate content of an item minus its fiber content. For example, a half-cup (4 ounces) of raw broccoli has 2.3 grams of total carbs and 1.3 grams of fiber. This puts its net carb value at 1 gram.

The Atkins Diet says its approach to carbs will burn off your body's fat stores, control your blood sugar and help you achieve optimal health. And the Atkins Diet says it won't leave you feeling hungry or deprived.

Once you're at your goal weight, the Atkins Diet also explains it will help you find your personal carbohydrate balance. The personal carbohydrate balance is the number of grams of net carbs you can eat each day without gaining or losing weight.