. . . it’s amazing how many people have this huge flaming emotional reaction to Atkins, as though it’s some sort of cult complete with scriptures and liturgy. I didn’t read a single menu, didn’t buy a book, didn’t plop down the Jacksons for Atkins-branded products; I just dropped cereal and juice in the morning, bread for lunch, crackers for snacks and pasta for supper. No dessert. Lean meat. That’s it. Voila: three weeks later all my old pants fit.

LILEKS (James) The Bleat