Both the reading passage and the lecture discuss the main necessity of the Atkins diet and elaborate on the speaker's opinion regarding its benefits and rising popularity. The Atkins diet is a low-carbohydrate diet emphasising high protein and fat consumption. According to both sources, this diet has gained significant attention due to its potential health benefits and effectiveness in weight loss. The reading passage highlights the necessity of the Atkins diet. It explains that the current Western diet, which is high in carbohydrates, has led to a surge in obesity rates and related health problems. The Atkins diet aims to address this issue by reducing carbohydrate intake, forcing the body to utilise stored fat for energy. Individuals can control their blood sugar levels and improve overall health by regulating carbohydrate consumption. The speaker in the lecture expands upon the benefits of the Atkins diet. They emphasise its efficacy in weight loss, particularly in the initial stages. By limiting carbohydrates, the body enters a state called ketosis, where it burns fat stores for energy. This process leads to significant weight loss. Moreover, the Atkins diet helps control hunger and cravings, making it easier for individuals to adhere to the plan. Furthermore, both the speaker and the reading passage highlight the positive impact of the Atkins diet on overall health. They explain that the diet can improve cardiovascular health by lowering triglyceride levels and increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, or "good" cholesterol. The reduced carbohydrate intake can also contribute to better management of insulin levels, benefiting individuals with type 2 diabetes. Regarding the rising popularity of the Atkins diet, both sources attribute it to its proven effectiveness in weight loss and the positive experiences shared by individuals who have followed the plan. They mention that the increasing prevalence of obesity has compelled people to seek alternative dietary approaches, thereby contributing to the growing popularity of the Atkins diet. In conclusion, the Atkins diet is a necessary response to the health issues associated with high carbohydrate consumption. The reading passage and the lecture support its benefits, such as weight loss, hunger control, improved cardiovascular health, and insulin regulation. The rising popularity of the Atkins diet can be attributed to its proven advantages and the growing concern surrounding obesity.