The Atkins diet is very restrictive on the foods permitted and there is a list of foods restricted for each phase.

Phase 1: Induction – Foods Restricted
Phase 2: Ongoing Weight Loss – Foods Restricted
Phase 3: Pre-Maintenance – Foods Restricted
Phase 4: Maintenance – Foods Restricted

Phase 1: Foods Restricted

• All types of fruit
• All cereals – oats, wheat
• All grains – barley, rice, semolina
• Any type of bread and pasta and baked goods
• All dairy – except butter, cheese, cream
• All types of nuts and seeds
• All legumes – beans, chickpeas
• Avoid caffeine – coffee, tea, soft drinks
• All sweets
• All deep fried foods
• All processed snack foods

Phase 2: Foods Restricted

• Same as in phase1, except nuts/seeds and more dairy are now allowed

Phase 3: Foods Restricted

• All white/processed cereals and grains are not permitted
• No natural foods restricted
• Only carbohydrate content restricted

Phase 4: Foods Restricted

Same as for phase 3
The Atkins site gives a comprehensive list of the amounts of each food permitted and restricted. An example of the two-week induction meal plan can be viewed at the Atkins site

The Atkins site also provides a pictorial representation of their recommended food pyramid, which is not the generally accepted food pyramid recommended by nutritionists.