Originally Posted by
AdaQuonsett
Will I have much trouble staying on Atkins while in Japan? I know how to pick and choose, of course, but can you suggest some foods other than fish that I might stick with?
This is going to sound insensitive and I don't really mean it that way, but you pushed one of my hot buttons.
What is the point of foreign travel if you are not going to experience the cuisine? That is a major part of visiting new lands - to see how people there live. Can't you just give yourself a "vacation" from the diet and eat as the locals do? I struggle with my weight at times and always seem to be trying to shed some extra pounds but when I travel to new places, I always try the local food, even if it means my calorie count goes up for a few days. (katsudon must be 1500+ calories but it is food of the gods and not to be missed. Likewise, good tempura or soba.
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Vegetarian/vegan travelers have it easier in Japan as there are lots of meatless options. Some of the best is found in certain Buddhist temples and temple-run restaurants. They use tofu, vegetables and grains to make some truly memorable dishes. High protein, low carb options are much more difficult to find.
Seriously, there is lots of beef and pork used in Japanese cuisine, but they also use lots of veggies and grains. You can avoid those things but then you aren't experiencing Japanese cuisine! My suggestion: just give yourself a few days off and enjoy the trip.
JR