Cardiologist Robert Coleman Atkins (1930–2003), creator of a high-protein, low-carbohydrate approach to eating, was born today in Columbus, Ohio. In private practice in New York City, he began refining a controlled-carbohydrate plan in 1963.

Nine years later he published Dr. Atkins’ Diet Revolution, a bestselling work that sparked national dialogue about the roles of sugar, fat, and metabolism. “Cut out your carbohydrates and you’ll burn up your fat,” he proclaimed.

His plan encouraged more protein and fat while restricting many carbohydrates, arguing that refined sugars and starches raise blood sugar and stimulate appetite. In many ways, his ideas foreshadowed modern **low-carb** and **ketogenic** thinking, though he worked with different scientific tools and scope.

Critics questioned the long-term safety and effectiveness of a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet, especially for the heart and kidneys. Yet, across decades and a dozen books, Atkins remained steadfast in encouraging people to explore food’s role in health.

Through his career, he stayed rooted in a practical aim: helping people feel better by making different nutritional choices. “The main thing that I want to accomplish in life is putting an end to the epidemic of diabetes and obesity,” he said.