Atkins meal plan for beginners

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Listonic team

Oct 1, 2024

Begin your low-carb journey with confidence using our Atkins meal plan for beginners. This plan is crafted to help you ease into the Atkins lifestyle without feeling overwhelmed. Simple recipes and clear guidelines make starting out a breeze.

Meal plan grocery list

Meats icon

Meats

Chicken breast

Ground beef

Salmon

Pork chops

Bacon

Shrimp

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Dairy & eggs

Eggs

Mozzarella cheese

Cheddar cheese

Greek yogurt

Heavy cream

Butter

Fish & seafood icon

Fish & seafood

Salmon

Shrimp

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Fresh grocery

Avocado

Broccoli

Spinach

Cauliflower

Zucchini

Bell peppers

Asparagus

Green beans

Raspberries

Strawberries

Blueberries

Cucumber

Tomatoes

Mushrooms

Garlic

Onions

Lettuce

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Plant based

Almonds

Walnuts

Spices & sauces icon

Spices & sauces

Olive oil

Coconut oil

Meal plan overview

The atkins meal plan for beginners is a straightforward introduction to the low-carb lifestyle. It includes easy-to-follow recipes and simple meal prep strategies, focusing on accessible ingredients like chicken, eggs, and leafy greens. Meals are designed to be quick and uncomplicated, perfect for those new to this way of eating.

Beginners will find this plan helpful in understanding the basics of low-carb eating without feeling overwhelmed. It’s an excellent starting point for anyone looking to make a healthy change with clear guidance and minimal fuss.

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Foods to eat

  • Grilled Chicken: Easy to prepare and a great source of lean protein.

  • Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and zucchini are simple and low in carbs.

  • Hard-Boiled Eggs: A quick, protein-packed snack.

  • Mixed Nuts: Almonds and walnuts are perfect for a filling snack.

  • Cottage Cheese: Low in carbs and high in protein, great with some fresh chives.

Tip

Start slow by swapping out one high-carb item per meal with a low-carb alternative, like cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Foods not to eat

  • White Rice: High in carbs and should be avoided.

  • Soft Drinks: Packed with sugar, they can derail your progress.

  • Fried Foods: Often breaded and high in unhealthy fats.

  • Chips and Crackers: High in carbs and low in nutritional value.

  • Sweetened Yogurt: Opt for plain Greek yogurt instead.

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Main benefits

The Atkins meal plan for beginners offers a straightforward introduction to low-carb eating without overwhelming complexity. It provides clear guidance and easy recipes, making the transition to this diet smooth and manageable. This plan helps beginners quickly see the benefits of weight management and improved energy levels.

Recommended nutrient breakdown

Protein: 25%

Fat: 50%

Carbs: 20%

Fiber: 3%

Other: 2%

How to budget on this meal plan

If you're a beginner on the Atkins meal plan, start by focusing on simple, inexpensive foods like eggs, chicken, and low-carb vegetables. Avoid buying too many specialty Atkins products; stick to whole foods that are naturally low in carbs. Meal prepping can help you manage your budget and ensure you have easy access to meals that fit the diet, preventing costly impulsive buys.

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Extra tips

Here are some healthy snack ideas for an Atkins meal plan for beginners:

  • Cheese slices with apple wedges
  • Small portion of mixed nuts
  • Celery sticks with almond butter
  • Deviled eggs
  • Grilled vegetables
  • Olives
  • Smoked salmon with cucumber slices

On the Atkins meal plan for beginners, it's essential to drink plenty of water. You can also have black coffee, plain or with a splash of heavy cream, and unsweetened teas. Unsweetened almond or coconut milk can be included. Avoid sugary drinks and fruit juices to help maintain a low-carb intake.

Beginners on the Atkins meal plan should ensure they consume a balance of lean proteins, such as chicken, fish, and eggs, along with a wide range of non-starchy vegetables like kale, peppers, and zucchini for fiber. Healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil can improve satiety and nutrient absorption. A basic multivitamin can help cover any nutritional gaps during the transition.

Meal plan suggestion

Day 1

  • Breakfast:Scrambled eggs with spinach and mozzarella cheese
  • Lunch:Grilled chicken breast with avocado and mixed greens salad (lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes)
  • Dinner:Baked salmon with roasted asparagus and garlic
  • Snack:Greek yogurt with raspberries and a few almonds
  • Calories🔥: 1500
    Fat💧: 110g
    Carbs🌾: 30g
    Protein🥩: 110g

Day 2

  • Breakfast:Bacon and eggs with sautéed spinach
  • Lunch:Taco salad with ground beef, cheddar cheese, lettuce, and avocado
  • Dinner:Pork chops with cauliflower mash and steamed broccoli
  • Snack:Walnuts with a few strawberries
  • Calories🔥: 1600
    Fat💧: 120g
    Carbs🌾: 25g
    Protein🥩: 115g

Day 3

  • Breakfast:Omelette with mushrooms, spinach, and mozzarella cheese
  • Lunch:Grilled shrimp with zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and garlic
  • Dinner:Beef stir-fry with bell peppers and broccoli in coconut oil
  • Snack:Greek yogurt with blueberries and a sprinkle of almonds
  • Calories🔥: 1550
    Fat💧: 115g
    Carbs🌾: 35g
    Protein🥩: 105g

Day 4

  • Breakfast:Scrambled eggs with bacon and sliced avocado
  • Lunch:Chicken Caesar salad with grilled chicken breast, lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing
  • Dinner:Baked salmon with roasted Brussels sprouts and garlic butter
  • Snack:Mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries) with a few walnuts
  • Calories🔥: 1550
    Fat💧: 115g
    Carbs🌾: 30g
    Protein🥩: 110g

Day 5

  • Breakfast:Spinach and cheese omelette with a side of bacon
  • Lunch:Pork chops with roasted cauliflower and green beans
  • Dinner:Beef stir-fry with broccoli, bell peppers, and mushrooms in olive oil
  • Snack:Greek yogurt with raspberries and a few almonds
  • Calories🔥: 1600
    Fat💧: 120g
    Carbs🌾: 25g
    Protein🥩: 115g

Day 6

  • Breakfast:Scrambled eggs with spinach and mozzarella cheese
  • Lunch:Grilled chicken breast with avocado and mixed greens salad (lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes)
  • Dinner:Baked salmon with roasted asparagus and garlic
  • Snack:Greek yogurt with raspberries and a few almonds
  • Calories🔥: 1500
    Fat💧: 110g
    Carbs🌾: 30g
    Protein🥩: 110g

Day 7

  • Breakfast:Bacon and eggs with sautéed spinach
  • Lunch:Taco salad with ground beef, cheddar cheese, lettuce, and avocado
  • Dinner:Pork chops with cauliflower mash and steamed broccoli
  • Snack:Walnuts with a few strawberries
  • Calories🔥: 1600
    Fat💧: 120g
    Carbs🌾: 25g
    Protein🥩: 115g

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⚠️Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.