I was wondering is there an ideal number of grams of carbohydrates to stay under daily? Thanks

Hey studville. If you choose to do the Atkins' way of eating you'll want to stay between 15-20 carbs a day for the induction period. This lasts about 2 wks. But like I said before, you should really invest $8 or $9 and just get the New Diet Revolution. Well worth the money and you'll be referring to it all the time.
Heather

On Protein Power, you start at 30 grams. Also quite worth the 8-9 bucks for another brilliant read.

Karen

I'm was planning on starting a plan, but was promptly stopped by my father who is a doctor. He said that a (low carb) high protein diet was very harsh on the kidneys and can easliy dehydrate someone (which of course can simply be solved by drinking more water). What are your thoughts on this.

welcome aboard studville! i know that a low carb diet doesn't affect your kidneys! i can't remember the hows and whys, but i know this for fact! i've read so much i can't remember it all. drinking a lot of water is a must though! it's good for general good health! so is a lowcarb diet! most doctor's just haven't got on the bandwagon yet! i know someone will give you better info on the kidney question than i do!

If that were true, then I'd have no kidneys by now. There is tons of misinformation of LC. Ask your father to read the books mentioned above after you have read them and the info in the Low Carb Studies section at the top of the page.

Karen