HARRIET BROWNLEE received her master of arts degree from Columbia University and has taught home economics in the New York City school system. As a child, she suffered from a severe weight problem that was ultimately solved under the guidance of Dr. Robert C. Atkins. The Low-Carb Gourmet developed from her understanding of and belief in low-carbohydrate dieting, coupled with her skill and good taste as a cook. (Her mother was actually a trained professional chef.) In recent years, Brownlee has applied her creativity to studying watercolor at the Art Students League of New York and has won honors for her paintings. She lives in New York City and is at work on another cookbook.