The primary distinction between the Keto and Atkins diets is that the Keto diet (or ketogenic diet) limits protein intake, whereas the Atkins diet does not. Both Keto and Atkins diets are popular low-carb diets that restrict carbohydrate intake. The Atkins diet consists of four phases, whereas the Keto diet does not have phases. However, the first phase of the Atkins diet is quite similar to the Keto diet.
Key Takeaways
- Keto diet has a limit on protein intake while Atkins doesn’t.
- Atkins diet has four phases, while the Keto diet has no phases.
- In the Keto diet, your body is always in ketosis, while this is not the case with the Atkins diet.
What is a Keto Diet?
The keto diet or ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that helps you lose weight. It is based on consuming a specific percentage of macronutrients, consisting of high fats (70-80%), moderate proteins (20-25%), and low carbohydrates (5-10%). The primary goal of a keto diet is to get your body to burn fats as fuel instead of carbohydrates. When our diet does not contain enough carbohydrates, the liver can convert fat into fatty acids and ketones, which can replace glucose as an energy source. This process is known as ketosis.
What is an Atkins Diet?
The Atkins diet, first proposed by Robert Atkins, is a low-carbohydrate diet based on the idea that you can lose weight while eating as much protein and fat as you want, as long as you avoid foods high in carbohydrates. This diet consists of four phases, each with different daily carb allowances and goals. During the first two phases of the diet, you must avoid all starchy and sugary food, but in the latter phases, you can gradually reintroduce healthy carbs.
What are the Similarities Between Keto and Atkins?
Keto and Atkins diets are both low-carb, high-fat diets. The first phase of the Atkins diet is very similar to a keto diet. In both diets, you must track the number of carbohydrates you consume daily.
What is the Difference Between Keto and Atkins?
The main difference between the Keto and Atkins diets is the limit on protein intake. In the keto diet, you should limit your protein consumption to 20-25% of calories, but there is no such limit in the Atkins diet. The Atkins diet has four phases, while the Keto diet has none. Additionally, you must always limit your carb intake when on a Keto diet, but in the Atkins diet, carbs are slowly reintroduced as you get closer to your ideal weight. Thus, your body is not in ketosis when on an Atkins diet, but it is always in ketosis when on a Keto diet.
Summary – Keto vs Atkins
Keto and Atkins are two types of low-carb diets that help you reduce your weight. The difference between Keto and Atkins is that the Keto diet has a limit on protein intake, while the Atkins diet doesn’t.
