Didn't Dr. Atkins have a heart attack?
http://www.cnn.com/2002/HEALTH/diet....5/atkins.diet/
Yeah, they tried to say it wasn't diet related. However, my mom has been getting really into homeopathic medicine lately and they believe that every aspect of your health is affected by what you consume and how polluted you system is.
Here's another article on the matter.
http://www.cnn.com/2001/HEALTH/diet....in.diet.heart/
Now I personally believe that the Atkins diet has some merit. Over consumption of simple carbohydrates will add pounds faster than anything. If you need to loose weight your intake of carbs should be carefully balanced against your level of physical activity. However, the Atkins diet is way too extreme. Moderation is always the key!!