Wow thanks for the great response!
To answer to your comment about finding a different approach to Atkins, I'll explain why on earth I would pick it (being that I don't eat meat really)
In summer this year I began gym 4x a week with my boyfriend and eating healthy. We didn't call it "dieting" because we felt we were just eating normally, but thinking more about what we ate and not over doing it on portions. We were very successful and both losing weight together.
But it's come down to the wire so to speak. In 9 days we leave for France for Christmas with his family and I still feel fat. I didn't want to be the typical "fat American" in Europe. So I've been told by friends the Atkins diet is the best for
fast rapid weight loss. If I wanted to lose weight in a way that was healthier for me (easier on my stomach), I'd cut out carbs but definitely not entirely. I'd remain just eating healthy and gym, but realistically I'd only loose 1-2lbs a week that way.
I assumed going into Atkins that I would most likely (or most definitely) gain it back by the time my vacation is over, because I don't plan on avoiding French foods while there. However I don't plan to over induldge either. I am hoping I can keep it off as best I can. Hence the fears of gaining it all back as quickly as I lost it. Sort of sad, but I can't avoid carbs forever. Sugars yes, carbs no.
I have become increasingly interested in the later phases after 2 week induction, where you start to introduce other foods and would like to take that information into account while in France.
However I sort of fear his family would think I was some crazy California nut by being so picky about what I'll eat and what I won't eat (first time meeting them too!).
- M