Thinking of starting the Atkins diet? Atkins diet, similarly to any restrictive eating plans, has its fair share of side effects. In most cases, Atkins diet side effects are observed if used incorrectly, for lengthy periods of time, during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Overall, this diet is considered safe and can actually decrease the likelihood of developing certain health conditions associated with obesity factors. However, there are some individuals who might be especially prone to developing Atkins diet side effects like those with chronic kidney, bladder and liver conditions. It is important for such individuals to discuss potential Atkins diet side effects with the doctor.

The Atkins diet is one of the most common weight plans today. Developed in 1972 by Dr. Robert Akins, this diet focuses on the restriction of carbohydrates. The Atkins diet forces the body to convert stored body fat to energy. Promoting the eating of mostly protein, the diet is often assumed to be zero carb diet only but this diet plan allows some minimal carbohydrate intake as well.

The seven most common Atkins diet side effects are:

1. Withdrawal Side Effects. The induction phase is very commonly associated with such side effects like headaches, dizziness and even fainting. This is due to body not receiving enough carbohydrates and sugars it is normally used to. However, these symptoms will slowly subside once the body adjusts to a new eating plan.

2. Nutritional Deficiencies. Since the first phase focus on nominal carbohydrate intake and mostly protein, fiber and vitamin intake is at a minimum resulting in an array of digestive issues like nausea, constipation and indigestion. Some doctors recommend supplementing initial phase of Atkins diet with fiber and multivitamins.

3. Ketosis. Any low carb high protein diet could lead to a state called ketosis. Ultimately, that is the goal of the diet to switch the body to burning fat into energy, however certain predisposed individuals may develop kidney, bladder and liver disease. Kidney stones are not an uncommon side effect due to high levels of acids and calcium in the urine.

4. Bone Loss. Though uncommon, bone loss is among dangerous Atkins diet side effects resulting from ketones levels in blood too high. When the blood becomes acidic, the body takes calcium from the bones to counteract that chemical reaction.

5. Increased Risk of Colon Cancer. Though more research is still needed to prove this theory, it is believed that diets centered on low fiber and carbohydrate intake and high protein consumption can be associated with increased instances of colon cancer. Consuming large quantities of non-organic meats, cured meats like beef jerky or bacon along with deli products introduce a digestive tract to high levels of toxic compounds and chemicals inadvertently affecting the overall health.

6. Bad Breath (Halitosis). Unfortunately, the state of ketosis can induce the body to not only burn calories but to produce chemical reactions with malodorous side effects. Drinking more water can temporarily help with these unpleasant Atkins diet side effects that should subside once the body goes through the weight loss changes and low levels of carbs are reintroduced.

7. High Levels of Cholesterol. Eating a plethora of animal based protein can lead to dramatic jumps in the blood lipid levels. Some doctors recommend monitoring these levels of blood cholesterol if individuals are at a risk of developing heart disease.

These are just a few of the common side effects of low carb diet that the Atkins Diet represents. There are phases to the diet must be adhered to for the diet to work. It is recommended to do an acai berry colon cleanse diet in addition to the Atkins diet routine in order to rid the body of harmful toxins and also using clear liquid diet foods such as teas, beef and chicken broths and fruit juices. In your quest to lose weight, take these seven common Atkins diet side effects to heart before considering the diet.