It is obvious that the originator of this thread is not going to get a factual reply to their question about the Atkins diet.
I would therefore suggest that for that fact they visit
http://atkins.com/ and asses for themselves whether the Atkins diet holds any validity.
Then read "Nourishing Traditions" by Sally Fallon in the spirit of non credo.
It seems that Johhnyzen has never had a conversation with a macrobiotic person. They are famous for having rancid breath!
I remember one time being caught between two senior macrobiotic teachers -- talk about bad breath in stereo. It was enough to peel the paint off the wall!!