My wife lost 5+ stone after having our 2nd daughter using a paleo diet... I've tried it on and off and did feel generally healthier for it (much less flat / bloated) but I'm awful at sticking to it so I don't think it'll ever work for me. I like bread / pasta too much
.
I wouldn't say it's like Atkins, there are carbs in Paleo just not starchy / bulky grain-based carbs. It's a healthy "diet" (literaly use of the word, it's not a temporary diet but a lifestyle change) with a good balance that will be perfectly sustainable long term IF the person doing it isn't easily tempted by delicious treats like some of us
.
I would say though, it's not just the change of diet, the lifestyle change incorporates lots of natural / bodyweight excercise to properly utilise what will probably be lots of extra protein. Doing it without a commitment to exercise is a bit pointless really.
Oh and also... it can get expensive. Good quality food costs more than junk.