Atkins works for me. Here are some things that I have found to be helpful:
Make sure you know all the FAQ from (especially the INDUCTION phase):
http://atkins.com/howto/index.html
People have some very bad misconceptions about Atkins. Some think that all there is in the world is to bulk up. This is not a diet for people that want to build big muscles or young people that have loads of energy and time for the gym. People use diets for different reasons, everyone has their own goals. If your goal is weight loss and understanding how foods effect you, Atkins may work well for you. Please read this site for newbie info:
http://www.atkinsdietbulletinboard.com/index.php
You must learn the entire book cover to cover. Pieces left out will cause health problems, cramps in the middle of the night, slow or no progress or possibly worse. See a Dr if you have any questions about your own personal health.
Things that I learned:
1) Take your supplements. I also take fish oil.
2) Fiber, I use psylum husks to stay regular.
3) I eat almost all of my 20 grams in veggies. I tried hogging out on cheese and sour cream, but it doesn't make sense.
4) Water gain will come back when you are off the diet.
5) Induction has very limited choices. Don't repeat DO NOT allow people to tell you that you can use the Atkins products while in induction.
6) Water, and more water.
7) Use the clean induction to analize your health. Look for alergies that go away, pains and aches that fade. When you add the foods back in watch for what causes them.
8) Add carbs back in SLOWLY. You will get very tired if you go out and have a huge carb dinner.
9) Look for hidden carbs. Cough drops etc will stop you from entering ketosis. Use keto sticks to verify that you are in ketosis. Read the forums for tips on making your breath more pleasant.
10) I weigh every day in the AM after peeing. I chart it and use it as a motivator. There are times that you will be losing inches but not pounds (especially if you are exercising) so watch your pant size or measure yourself.
I know that I have all done well on Atkins. My weight gain is from stopping smoking and once off seems to stay off.
You will find that some people will support you while on Atkins and some just don't "get it". They have no comprehension of your choice and will only provide negative feedback. I only wish they knew where their BACK button is.
Feel free to PM me with any questions.