KEY POINTS!

• Insulin is the hormone that transports glucose from your blood to your cells, where it can be converted to energy. The liver will convert excess glucose to glycogen, which is stored in the liver and muscles for additional, accessible energy.
• Remaining glucose will be converted to fat and stored throughout the body.
• Excessive carbohydrate intake results in an oversupply of glucose, and thus insulin, in the body.
• An ongoing cycle of excess blood glucose overproduction and insulin overproduction eventually results in hyperinsulinism and ultimately diabetes.
• Hyperinsulinism is what makes it hard for many people to lose weight.
• Atkins can stabilize insulin production to make it easier to lose weight.
• High levels of triglycerides in the blood are a proven risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
• Atkins can sharply reduce your risk of blood-sugar disorders-and by extension, heart disease and other serious ailments.
  

A FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION:

Can I manage my insulin and blood sugar without eating much fat?
No, because when you cut out fat, what is left is protein and carbohydrate, both of which can
produce a blood-sugar response. Fat is the only substance that won't have an impact on your
blood sugar. It also provides essential fatty acids you can't get from protein or carbohydrates.
Contrary to much of what you may have heard, fat can be good for you!

TIPS:

• If you don't stabilize your blood sugar you will have difficulty losing weight.
• If you lower your carbohydrate intake you will lower your insulin levels as well as your triglycerides.
• If you are taking oral diabetes medicine or insulin, consult your physician before starting Atkins. You will need to reduce and then monitor your dosage as you lower your blood-sugar level.