Hi proudmommy, and welcome! This website is a great support network, and we're glad to have you aboard!

Some people retain water or their weight loss stalls from bacon and other salty luncheon meats. You may want to stick to unprocessed, uncured meats until you get over your stall.

Avoid milk-it's too high in carbs-and stick to heavy cream. If it's too rich, water it down. Dairy can also cause some people to stall if they have a hidden allergy. Also, for some people, dairy is too densely caloric for them to lose weight efficiently (for some, calories DO count).

My Aunt has had this for a few years. She just got done with a series of shots she had to take every day I believe. She has good days and bad days, so I know how it can get. I wish you all the best. (((HUG)))

I have never tested for ketosis, and have always lost well on low carb, keeping it between 30-45 net carbs a day. I drink lots of water, and make sure that I eat adequate protein at each meal, something I learned from reading Protein Power. I lost down to 155 in 1998 with Protein Power and when I began eating more carbs, I gained the weight back. I just have to low carb as a lifestyle, it's not a temporary fix for me.

There are so many cookbooks and products out there now to help with success. I use protein shakes and an occasional bar to keep me on track. They help me from cheating...if I crave something, I can have a shake first, while I make food, and it quiets the cravings...........I make my shakes with cream/water, protein, flax oil... I agree with what Demokat and ronda say about milk...........also, I do keep an eye on fat, and while I eat it, portions do count in my case.

Something that has helped me is making sure the carbs I eat are filled with plenty of fiber...I also drink lots of green tea. I lost down to 158 in 2005 with a lower carb plan (food combining), but was unable to maintain the combining, so I gained some weight back. Just this week I have buckled down with Atkins, and have lost 4.5 pounds.

Try the Smart water. It rocks!!

I'm new here too.
I start induction Monday.

John Smith