Atkins diet 'can stop you getting pregnant'

The Atkins diet could reduce a woman's chances of becoming pregnant, scientists warned yesterday.

Researchers have found eating too much protein can prevent an embryo attaching to the wall of the womb or hinder its early development.

Research conducted at Colorado Centre for Reproductive Medicine in the US was carried out on mice but scientists believe there are serious implications for humans.

'It's conceivable that people who have protein intakes greater than 30 per cent may have problems conceiving,' said Dr David Gardner, who led the study.

The upper limit for protein consumption under Atkins guidelines is 35 per cent of total calories but devout disciples of the diet might consume a greater proportion.