And remember that Dr. Atkins himself had over 30,000 patients at his clinic since the 1970's and none of them died of the diet. And NONE of them developed kidney or liver problems from the diet.

Dr. Atkins publicly and repeatedly challenged (on TV) anyone to bring forward EVEN ONE case where low carbing had caused liver or kidney disease in a healthy person. No one ever has come forward.

However, it is important to follow your low carb plan just as the authors of the plan wrote it. At lower carb levels, the side effects can be somewhat stronger but should subside by the 5th day. If not, then add some carbs on the list of allowed foods.

And of course, all the reputable plans want you to be checked out by your doctor and not have any EXISTING kidney or liver problems. That's very responsible of them but it is up to the individual to follow the instructions. No one knows exactly what that poor young girl was eating nor if it actually was "Atkins as written" or something else.

Hope this helps.