A new study has found that the controversial Atkins Diet may be one of the most effective ways for women to lose weight. Researchers at Stanford University in California followed the progress of 300 overweight women, who followed four separate diets - Atkins, Ornish, Zone and Lifestyle, Exercise, Attitudes, Relationships and Nutrition (LEARN).

The nearly 80 women who followed the Atkins diet lost about 10 pounds each in one year compared to the women who followed the other three diets, who reportedly lost about 3.5 pounds each. The Atkins dieters also saw decreased blood pressure levels. Researchers found that despite the controversy surroundings the diet's high fat intake the women did not experience dangerous side effects, including increased cholesterol levels.

While the findings of this study are interesting and prove that following a higher fat, low carbohydrate diet may be beneficial for some women, it does not address the dangers that have been associated with the diet in recent years. This diet may be practical as a short-term solution for obese individuals who are otherwise relatively healthy. As a long term diet there are many health risks associated with cutting out healthy carbohydrates, including whole grains, and embracing artery clogging foods like butter, bacon and fatty meats. Excessive intakes of these foods can increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes. When respected organizations like the American Heart Association and American Cancer Society will not endorse the diet may we should heed the warnings.