I don't think anyone can underestimate the health benefits of eating plenty of fruits and vegetables as part of a balanced diet... I probably eat more vegetable now than I did before. I have at least one salad a day plus other vegetables. I just don't eat vegetables high in carbs. Some fruit is allowed (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries), but not those high in fructose (oranges, apples, bananas).
The misconception about Atkins is that it's all fat and meat all the time...that's simply not the case.
Besides, fat is good for your hair and skin and your brain and other vital organs require good old fashioned animal protein to function at their peak.
I've been doing pretty well for two years without the animal protein. I get fats from nuts and legumes and omega fatty acids from salmon and other fish. I use a lot of olive oil and get protein from egg whites. I have high cholesterol, so I have to stay away from egg yolks, red meats and dairy products. Cutting out milk,cheeses and cream has almost eliminated sinus problems, too.
Most important of all is exercise. I do 30 minutes about 5 times a week on the elliptical trainer. Makes a big difference in the way calories are metabolized.