Atkins diet- some common side effects

The Atkins diet cuts out most carbohydrates but allows the foods that are normally forbidden in the traditional, low-fat, high-fibre diet - cream, steak, cheese, avocados and full-fat mayonnaise. Because of this sudden change in eating habits, some side effects are inevitable. Here's how to tackle them

Bad breath

When following a low-carb diet, more fat is broken down because your body obtains fuel from this instead. This process releases substances known as ketones. These are lost in urine and also come out via the breath, which can cause a sweet odour similar to pear drops. Use a mouth freshener spray, chewing gum sweetened with xylitol (not sugar) or drink mint tea. Drink two to three litres of water per day.

Withdrawal symptoms

Some people get withdrawal symptoms because, according to Atkins theory, they are 'addicted' to sugar, wheat, caffeine and foods that quickly change blood sugar levels. These withdrawal symptoms can include fatigue, feeling faint, palpitations, cold sweats and headaches. These usually disappear within three days, and Atkins advises that you just hang in there and try to get through them. If, however, side effects are severe, then you must withdraw from the diet - it's obviously not suiting you.

Headaches can sometimes be a withdrawal effect from suddenly cutting out caffeine, and it shouldn't continue for more than three days. It's advisable to cut back on caffeine slowly before starting Atkins, especially if you normally drink more than three cups of tea or coffee per day. Drink plenty of fluids (two to three litres per day), as dehydration can also cause headaches.