It is estimated that nearly 45 million Americans go on a diet each year. If you are a part of this statistic, then you may be wondering which diet plan is best for you. Both the Atkins and the keto diet are two popular low-carb diets around today, but many people struggle to understand the difference between them.
Read on to learn more about the difference between the Atkins diet vs. keto diet and how to choose the best one for you.
The Atkins Diet
First promoted in 1972 by Dr. Robert Atkins, the Atkins diet is a low-carb, high-protein diet. This diet greatly limits your carbohydrate intake but allows you to introduce healthy carbs back into your diet after a certain amount of time. The four stages of the Atkins diet are as follows:
- Phase 1: Under 20 grams of carbs per day for 2 weeks
- Phase 2: Add more low-carb fruits and veggies back onto your diet
- Phase 3: Once you are close to your goal weight, add in more carbs to slow weight loss down
- Phase 4: Eat as many healthy carbs as you want without gaining weight
The Atkins diet is seen as a very sustainable diet as you can reintroduce healthy carbohydrates back into your diet.
The Keto Diet
The keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that is usually used to lose weight quickly. The keto diet works to reduce your carbohydrate intake and place your body into a metabolic state called ketosis.
When your body is in ketosis, it becomes very efficient at burning fat for energy, causing weight loss. Along with weight loss, the keto diet can also reduce your blood sugar and insulin levels.
Starting this diet can be difficult for some, but with the right keto diet tips, it isn’t as hard as it seems.
Atkins Diet vs. Keto: How Are They Similar?
The Atkins and the keto diet are similar in the fact that they are both low-carb diets. Phase 1 of the Atkins diet is essentially the keto diet. Limiting your carbs during this phase will likely put your body into ketosis.
Both diets also require you to eliminate foods that are high in processed carbs and refined sugar.
Atkins Diet vs. Keto: How Are They Different?
The keto diet focuses more on fat, while the Atkins diet focuses more on protein. Keto allows 20% of your calories to come from protein, while the Atkins diet allows 30%.
As mentioned before, the keto diet requires you to keep your body in ketosis, while the Atkins diet has you gradually increase the amount of carbs you eat.
Because of this, the Atkins diet allows for a wider variety of foods. However, if you are interested in Keto, there are many food options, such as the keto snacks found here.
Get Started on Your Health Journey Today
Now that you know the differences between the Atkins diet vs. Keto, you can choose which option is best for you. Both diets offer wonderful benefits for your health and weight loss goals.
If you enjoyed this article, then check out the rest of our blog for more health and diet content.
