Once you figure out your numbers it isn't that hard to follow, LC is def the way to go. Good Luck fellow low carber!!!

Very true! In fact, I see PP as just a "more tailored" version of LC. And wait until you read the book and get even more ideas of foods to avoid (and why) and foods to enjoy (and why). It will change your food mindset!

<thinking for a moment>

OMG, we sound like a cult! ROFL

I have a question: I was flipping thru the 2 books I just got : The 30-Day Low Carb Diet Solution and PPLP and I am not sure how the Eades feel about using low-carb bake mixes. I just got Carbquik and made waffles and I couldn't tell the difference!! Does anyone know?

Kelly, if you want faster results, I'd say avoid all processed foods as much as possible, including things like carb quick. A lot of people do used these foods, but most once they are on plan for at least several weeks.

Wait until you're closer to goal to use these products....and for now try to stick with only whole natural foods.

In my opinion the first few weeks, at least should be about avoiding unecessary carbs whenever possible. This helps you break the desire for sweet and starchy foods. To me, this makes it especially important if you plan to make low carbing a lifestyle, not just a diet.

Of course, if the rest of the family is pigging out on "regular" waffles, and you're afraid you'll dive headfirst into the waffles, then absolutely make your own with carb quick. But in my opinion, it's best to avoid things like this until close to or on maintenance....especially when you have a small amount to loose.

Thanks..I got it for times where I have a horrible craving for carbs that won't go away..I keep it for emergency last resort type situations..I just wanted to make sure that its not completely off limits.

CindySue's advice is spot on! But you have the right idea, Kelly...to have some back-ups "just in case" if you feel that's important to keeping you on plan. I've done it all...ate utterly cleanly, dabbled with carbquik (on the rare occasions we have a Saturday "pancake" breakfast, my DH and Mom get those and don't even know the difference!) and even had LC protein shake mixes and other such goodies. Mostly I try to eat cleanly with certain helpful additions...like coconut oil, coconut flour, almond flour, etc. that I use to create my own recipes. But I think having carbquik on hand to use to create substitutes (since it works like Bisquik, I'd considering trying fried chicken too) for long-term use is great.

For now...for your focus on those "tough 10" keep it in the pantry. But for your overall WOE, 'off limits' is really more up to you as long as you body reacts well and you keep your balance of protein and carbs!