(1) This phase of the Atkins diet sets you up for a lifetime of healthy, balanced eating and living as you approach your weight loss goal within 5 to 10 pounds. (2) During pre-maintenance, you will increase carbohydrate grams by 10 per week while continuing to lose weight, even if slowly, until you reach your goal weight and can maintain it for a month. (3) Measuring out increases in carbohydrate intake incrementally of 10 grams per week will help you determine your ideal carbohydrate intake level for long-term weight management.