The main drawback that people who use the Atkins diet find, is the intestinal problems that are involved with cutting back on carbohydrates. Some of these problems may involve constipation and diarrhea. These issues can occur in anyone at some point, however those who go on a low-carb diet such as the Atkins diet are especially at risk.

It is most likely that dieters will suffer from diarrhea during the early days of a low carb diet. This is happens because your is body getting rid of carbohydrates in its system. It also means the start of the ketosis process. What this means that suffering from diarrhea in the early days of your diet is a positive thing. It shows that you are on your way to being able to burn fat more easily.

Constipation occurs because of the lack of fiber in a low carb diet. Whole grains, cereals, legumes and fruit are the normal sources of dietary fiber, but these foods are fairly restricted on the Atkins diet in the early stages. However, don't let these factors stop you from trying a low carb diet. Although you must remember that this type of diet is only for the short term. There are methods you can use that can prevent and help with these issues and lessen their effects.

The first step is to make sure that you include the proper amount of low-carb vegetables in your diet on a daily basis. Eating healthy vegetables is vital to avoid intestinal problems while you are on the Atkins diet. You must also remember to drink 8 eight-ounce glasses of water each day and do some exercise. Following both of these steps will help keep intestinal problems to a minimum.

If you find that are experiencing constipation on a regular basis, then there are many ways to rectify this problem. When you go from a diet full of processed foods and refined sugar products, your body will require some time to adjust to this new method of eating your food. You just need to ensure that you increase your fiber intake with healthy vegetables and fruits (some fruits can be eaten after the early induction phase). You may also try try using fiber supplement like Metamucil.

Also make sure you are consuming enough fats and oils. Constipation can be a result of not having enough fat in your diet. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or flax oil to salads or other vegetables, and this will limit any intestinal problems.

Diarrhea should not really last long after the first week of going on the diet. However on the odd occasion it can last a little longer. First thing is to check your diet., If you are eating any sugar free products, cut back on them as they could contain sweeteners like glycerine, sorbitol and malitol which are known to cause diarrhea and wind. Low carb desserts may also be a cause of problems. Most of them contain maltodextrin, which is an artificial sweetener often used in baking. Maltodextrin is made from corn and can be problematic for some people.

If you are new to eating raw vegetables everyday, then this could be the cause of your diarrhea. Try to understand that your body will adapt to the vegetables you are eating and the intestinal problems will at some point go away. Make sure you chew your food thoroughly. Also, you could try using lightly steamed vegetables rather than raw this can often ease the problems.

Intestinal problems are common during the first portion of the Atkins diet and are nothing to worry about. Keep in mind that these problems will disappear within the first few weeks of your new eating methods. If the problems continue, go and see your doctor or a nutritionist for advice.