I started the Atkins diet and was losing weight quickly. I had lost 12 pounds and was very satisfied with the diet. However, the increased fat intake also increased the secretion of bile. I developed gall stones or I had exisiting stones and the increased activity of the gall bladder pushed them out and therefore I had to have my gall bladder removed. I now cannot be on the Atkins diet. Fats cause extreme discomfort.