My little brother and his fiancee informed me that they will be going on Atkins in crash-diet form so that they'll look great in their wedding photos.

I tried, "read the book" but he's read it, albeit years ago. I know he didn't fully grasp the LC concept though, because he asked me questions a few weekends ago about eating copious amounts of fat and the effect it has on health. I assumed he asked because our father had a massive heart attack at age 38 and open-heart surgery by age 50. Heart disease is a major concern genetically.

I tried to explain to them how great Atkins is as a lifestyle change - they literally beg me to prepare Atkins meals - but they are convinced they'll just both drop their weight, have their wedding, and then move on to the portion of their lives where they eat ice cream and pasta in wedded bliss.

What would you say to them?

I pour over these forums. I read Taubes' blog. I've watched every food documentary I've ever found. I seem to suck as an Atkins Ambassador, however. Regardless of my level of understanding, I am no great teacher or salesman. These two people are very important in my life and I feel it's vital that I inform them properly.

One thing I know I can't overcome is their youth; she's just 24 and my god, I remember drinking low-fat chocolate milk and 3 Musketeer candybars for breakfast everyday for months, no other meals, dropped a ton of weight and thought I was awesome. Stupid youth.