AAWOL's Mission Statement

We believe in following Dr. Atkins plan laid out in Dr. Atkins New Diet Revolution (DANDR, copyright 2002). These beliefs include, but are not limited to the following:

• Each of us must educate ourselves about the plan. Each member MUST read the DANDR book or the Original Diet Revolution book to understand the science behind this plan.
• Induction foods are limited to the acceptable food list for induction as written in DANDR.
• Ingredients do matter. Just because something is low in carbs, does not make it suitable for Atkins.
• Although Atkins Nutritionals (the company that owns the rights to the Atkins name) suggests through advertising and menu plans that the low carb processed foods they make are suitable for daily use, our experience has shown that Dr. Atkins advice to only use convenience foods occasionally is excellent advice. This is particularly important during induction and OWL as we learn new healthy eating habits - replacing high carb junk foods with low carb junk foods doesn't help us develop the eating habits that will not only get us thin, but keep us there.
• Only water counts for water and the plan calls for a MINIMUM of 64 oz. per day. (Most see their best success with different formulas, which include "half your weight in ounces", or " 64 ounces plus 8 ounces for every 25 pounds you are overweight.")
• Artificial sweeteners are to be consumed no more than three servings per day.
• Binging is an example of issues that are in the head and not in the stomach. These issues must be dealt with for long term success.
• Exercise is an essential part of Atkins - you need to make the lifestyle changes that will not only get you to goal, but keep the weight off long-term.