One of the biggest benefits to the Atkins Diet is that it significantly reduces cravings, especially those of highly processed carbohydrates. Refined carbs are very addictive, as anyone who struggles with weight issues understands. According to Discover Magazine, researchers at Princeton University indicate that sugars and refined carbohydrates stimulate the body’s pleasure center by providing a jolt of dopamine, a reward chemical. As dopamine receptors get flooded with dopamine through a steady diet of processed carbs, the mice studied began to develop opioid receptors. This is frightening — opioid receptors are also developed when mice use heroine and cocaine. When sugar was removed from the diet, the mice exhibited symptoms of withdrawal.
With the Atkins diet, the state of ketosis induced stabilizes blood sugars and gets rid of the cravings that were produced by the constant blood sugar swings. It allows the body to heal itself and to learn how to exist on more healthy choices such as lean meats, produce, and whole grains. For more dieting information, tips, and help for preparing mentally for your weight loss journey, see www.thedietmindset.com.