Another prodigal son returns...

[illinitailgater]

...or daughter, in this case. I started Atkins first on 1/2/99, at 163. I lost 12 pounds during induction, then lost another 8 over the next several months. I hit a plateau that lasted for at least 6 months. I know now that I probably should have been more vigilant about caffeine, aspartame, and drinking my water. I did maintain my newly lost weight for about 2 years, but eventually, and unfortunately, I started feeling very discouraged, and started going down that slippery slope to carb ****. I've started induction three times since then, usually about 2 months before a ski trip! Both of those times I did manage to drop enough to fit into my ski pants, so I suppose that's good. The last time I started was September 2004, and despite powerwalking 3 miles a day 4 times per week, I didn't lose an ounce.

Again, the caffeine/aspartame/water trifecta was probably to blame. Also, I wasn't checking my measurements, which could have been changing.

I started my last and final induction on 4/25/05. I was scared that my serial inductions would mean that weight loss would be very difficult. I happened upon this board within the first two days of my start, and I've been trolling ever since, picking up tips and inspiration. I am thrilled to see so much success, and to see so many people like myself returning.

I love the fact that this interactive forum will help me solve Atkins issues before I get discouraged and start to slide. Of course I have the book, and practically have it memorized, but it helps to have so many minds to turn to, who undoubtedly will think of something I haven't.

I am pleased to report that I am 9 days on induction, and I HAVE lost weight! 5.5 lbs so far, 1 1/2" in my waist and 1" in my bust (DH not real happy about that, but thrilled with overall picture). And, just two days ago, I went UP 2 lbs for no apparent reason, which would have made me run screaming from the scale in the past. Instead I went running for the tape measure, to find that my waist measurement had gone down 1/2" in 2 days! So that little tip I saw numerous times on the board this week has already come in handy! Of course, I am caffeine and aspartame free, and I am drinking more than 100 oz H20 a day!

My husband does Atkins too, he's 5'11" and went from 240 to 155 in 1999. He decided he's best at about 165-170, and he can generally maintain. He's gained maybe 20lbs during my "Eve" periods as he calls them, but he can lose and maintain easily. So I have plenty of support, and we both eat the same and believe in Atkins WOL. We've both made a committment to stop this yo-yo business, and we check with each other through the day to make sure we're drinking water and taking our supplements.

Looking forward to sharing more weight-loss news, and turning to you all for help when needed! Also looking forward to the shopping spree I'm gonna be going on in about 40 lbs!!!!!

[CathyR]

That was a nice post. I enjoyed reading it. Good luck. Sounds like you have the right mind set and yes, I do think this board will help. There have been a few times when I reeeaally wanted to eat something, not sure what, but I came here instead. After reading a few posts, my craving disappeared. That tells me it was from boredom, so thats one way I have discovered that this forum has been a inspiration for me.

[illinitailgater]

Thanks for your kind words. This board has helped me so much already--glad to know it also helps with cravings! I made my son chocolate chip pancakes this morning, and he hardly touched them. I ran to the computer right after I threw them out, and this board is helping me to focus on the bacon and eggs I'm now going to make for myself! Good luck. We'll all do this!

[ztachick]

welcome to the boards
glad you are here
and glad you came back to atkins
we all have our slip ups but then we return cuz we know it works\
hope to see you post more, good luck and you will be reaching goal before you know it.
:wave

[illinitailgater]

OMG, hope you are right about reaching goal!!!! Ok, with my new attitude, I better say, I KNOW you're right about reaching goal! Thanks for the support, I'm gonna try to not only take support but pay it forward as they say.

GO ATKINS!!!!!

[jroche5998]

Welcome to the board!

Your doing great so far! Having your spouse do it with you is awesome and very helpful.

Good luck!