I have to agree with Ray3667. The Atkins plan is just a quick fix, it really teaches you nothing, and in the long run, if adhered to too tightly can lead to a condition known as Ketoacidosis, which can prove fatal if taken too far. The body is designed to run on a complete diet. Taking away all carbs would be the equivalent of running your 2-stroke with no oil in the gas. It'll run for a while, but before long you'll begin to see problems. The key to everything is MODERATION and keeping your metabolism up. The Atkin's diet is just another "easy way out" for our increasingly LAZY populace. (Not including t_mihalenko, as he increased his activity level as well, which is probably the reason he saw decent results)We are less active than ever and consume more calories than ever, and then want it to all go away by magic. Sorry, but no dice. Eating smaller portions of less-processed (read- FRIED) foods, and foods lower in fat content are critical, as well as eating more often- not "snacking" per se, but rather 4-6 evenly spaced small meals, or 3 normal meals with two interspersed "snacks" at predetermined intervals. I can personally vouch for this on both a personal and scientific basis. In '99 I was 6'4" and around 290lbs, and right now am at ~200lbs, and have been that way for the last 5 years. I work out between 3-4 days a week, and don't starve myself, or deprive myself of the things I enjoy (brewed beverages, pizza, steak, etc.- just eat them in moderation and keep the activity level up. Good luck in the future with your progress.