I'm at work and don't have time to type all the info you're asking for right now. Can I make a suggestion in the meantime? Go to this Hot Links thread and do some reading up on the topics about which you're curious. Many there who have much greater knowledge than me have covered these topics very well.

The bottom line is that Atkins guidelines are a great starting point...and from there (if you encounter problems) you can start 'tweaking' with more/fewer carbs, more/fewer calories, etc.

I'll be back to check this thread later on to see if you still need help. You're always welcome to visit my journal!