Diet doctor Atkins remains in a coma
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Robert Atkins is famous for the "Atkins Diet" that blamed carbohydrates for weight gain.
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NEW YORK, New York (CNN) -- Dr. Robert Atkins, creator of the controversial high-protein/low-carbohydrate "Atkins Diet," remains in a coma and on life support in a New York hospital after he fell and struck his head on an icy sidewalk outside his New York office on Tuesday.
Atkins, 72, was rushed to New York Weill Cornell Medical Center by his colleague, Dr. Keith Berkowitz, where surgeons removed a blood clot to relieve pressure in his brain on Wednesday.
"We are hoping for a miracle," Richard Rothstein, a spokesman for Atkins told CNN Friday, "but the chances for a meaningful recovery are slim."
Atkins' original 1972 book, "Dr. Atkins' Diet Revolution," was contrary to the recommendations of most nutritional experts at the time, advocating eating plenty of meats, eggs and cheese for protein and fat. Atkins blamed carbohydrates, such as pastas and potatoes, for weight gain. While many remain skeptical about the Atkins Diet, it has become increasingly popular since the 1992 publication of his book, "Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution."
In April 2002 Atkins was hospitalized after he went into cardiac arrest, which he has said in a statement was "in no way related to diet."
