British Medical Journal Summary Stating "Atkins-Style" Diet Increases Cardiovascular Risk is False and Misleading

DENVER, Colo., June 28, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Atkins Nutritionals, Inc. has requested that the British Medical Journal (BMJ) retract its false and misleading statement that, according to a recent Swedish study, an "Atkins-style" diet is to blame for increased risk of cardiovascular disease among a specific female population in Sweden.  The study itself never mentioned the term "Atkins-style" and the diet in the study did not in any way resemble the Atkins Diet.

The diet tested in the study is not the Atkins Diet.

• The diet tested had 51% carbohydrates, while the Atkins Diet begins at 10% carbohydrates, and increases to 20%-30% over several weeks as the dieter reaches and maintains target weight.        
• The Atkins Diet emphasizes a healthy balance of proteins and good fats, and includes vegetables, fruits and even whole grains. 

It appears that BMJ, to draw public attention to its story, misleadingly inserted the false suggestion that an "Atkins-style" diet was used in the study, and omitted the conclusion of the Swedish researchers that diets similar to the actual Atkins Diet do not necessarily harm cardiovascular health.  Atkins has demanded an apology and corrective action from the British Medical Journal.

Key studies done to date measuring the Atkins Diet's effect on heart health have shown diminished risk.  Examples include a 2010 study published in Circulation (lead researcher Shai) demonstrated that a 2-year weight loss diet can induce a significant regression in heart disease markers and decline in blood pressure.  Additionally, a 2010 study published in Annals of Internal Medicine entitled "Weight and Metabolic Outcomes After Two Years On a Low-Carbohydrate Versus Low-Fat Diet: A Randomized Trial" demonstrated better outcomes for risk factors for heart disease and blood pressure in the low-carbohydrate participants.

Dr. David Haslam, GP bariatric physician and former chair of the British Obesity Forum adds, "The editorial to this Swedish research is below the standards one expects of the British Medical Journal and betrays the lack of awareness of scientific principles or the requirement of checking facts before publication. The Atkins Diet is a scientifically validated one, which is balanced and contains the foods deemed important by this paper. Furthermore, Atkins is a diet I recommend to my patients."

Monty Sharma, CEO of Atkins Nutritionals, states "We request those media outlets who have unwittingly republished the British Medical Journal's incorrect statements to speak with Atkins and learn what the Atkins Diet really is – a healthy, scientifically proven diet that includes healthy carbs, doesn't cut out any food groups, and is being passionately supported by millions of successful dieters across the globe."       

About Atkins Nutritionals, Inc.

Atkins Nutritionals, Inc. is a leader in the $2.4 billion weight control nutrition category, and offers a powerful lifetime approach to weight loss and management. The Atkins Diet focuses on a healthy diet with reduced levels of refined carbohydrates and added sugars and encourages the consumption of protein, fiber, fruits, vegetables and good fats. Backed by research and consumer success stories, this approach allows the body to burn more fat and work more efficiently while helping individuals feel less hungry, more satisfied and more energetic.

Atkins Nutritionals, Inc., manufactures and sells a variety of nutrition bars and shakes designed around the nutritional principles of the Atkins Diet™. Atkins' four product lines: Advantage®, Day Break™, Endulge™ and Cuisine™ appeal to a broad audience of both men and women who want to achieve their weight management goals and enjoy a healthier lifestyle. Atkins products are available online at atkins.com and in more than 30,000 locations throughout the U.S. and internationally. For more information, visit atkins.com.

SOURCE Atkins Nutritionals, Inc.