This is me, trying again. I tried Atkins Diet about 4-5 years ago with some success. I really didn't lose that much weight but I can say I never felt better on any other plan, so I'm going to give it another try.
I LOVED not craving the carbs that I seem to be addicted to. I had lots of energy and I felt really healthy.
I was really very diligent about sticking to the plan, but strangely enough, my keto stix never really turned more than a VERY pale shade of violet. This was MOST discouraging...but I pressed on because I felt so good.
I think I gave up eventually because the weight was not really coming off like I expected, given that I had been so faithful and all. Also, I had some friends tell me they didn't feel it was a healthy eating plan.
I went on to a personally tailored plan by a nutritionist that allowed me a set # of carbs, protein, dairy, fat, fruit etc. I was quite successful here but the craving for carbs and more food in general was very hard. At the end of the monitered program I resolved to continue to try, but eventually sucumbed to my old carb eating habits. My very favotie food is potatoes...mainly chips and fries.
Sometimes I feel I am fighting a losing battle, but I remember how good it felt not to crave food and I figure at the very least, I will feel good again. I think the worst failure would be to give up entirely and no longer make an effort.
Well...that's it so far...
I'm here!
Trudy

I wish U much success getting back to low-carbing. Dont worry about the ketostix, they are the most reliable and if U are drinking lots of water that tends to be the reason they dont change color much.

Welcome Trudi

Stick at it. Your previous experience shows that it can work. Yes it is disappointing not to see a deep colour in your ketosticks. Mine are usually very low, except shortly after a good work out at the gym, but the weight does continue to come off, all be it slowly.

We all have gradiose ideas about losing two or three pounds every week and for a few that is reality, however for many of us around a pound a week is all that we can expect, so don't loose heart, keep at it.

Little Anne

welcome trudy!

no, the colour of ketostix matters not at all. It's like being pregnant...either you are, or you aren't. If the colour goes dark, all that means is that you're dehydrated and need to increase your water intake.

HTH.