Howdy!

I'm interested in hearing whether anyone has any suggestions on what to do about leg weakness (not cramps) on Atkins. My aunt (who doesn't yet have access to a computer) has MS and has recently started Atkins. Her mobility is greatly decreased by her weight, and her doctor supports her use of Atkins, but when she reported leg weakness to him, he wanted her to stop. When she increased her carbs, the weakness abated, but I wondered if anyone out there has experience with MS, or with muscle weakness.

Her weight is a serious health issue for her, and we all (her family) believe that Atkins is the best way for her to do it as we all LC as a way of life.

Atkins does say to increase carb intake - but he is specifically refering to ascent weakness, which is not quite the case here.

Any feedback, or any suggestions of where to look for more information?

Thanks!!!

Hi, keriberry. I don't know anything about MS so don't take what I say as more than conjecture.

I have a question, how soon after starting Atkins did your aunt start having the leg weakness? If it was in the first week, it might have been to do with normal first week to two adjustment to lower carbs.

The other thing that comes to mind is that maybe she should try a plan that offers more carbs. I would like to suggest she try The Schwarzbein Principle. It's higher in carbs and so slower weight loss, but it's been working for me. And Dr. S. calls it a healing program, and it really does work. And I typically eat 60 to 80 grams of carbs or more a day. I lose weight, but very very slowly.

;-Deb

Also, I just want to mention that the consumption of aspartame has been associated with muscle weakness.... it even mimics the symptoms of MS sometimes resulting in mis-diagnosis. Whether she LC's or not, she should stay FAR away from aspartame in all forms!

Here's just one link .... I'm sure I could dig up 50 more!