Ideal Protein Diet - Ideal Protein Diet

Anyone here doing the ideal protein diet? I've been doing it for 3 weeks now and I have lost about 15 lbs. I was hoping to find others doing the same plan.

Haven't heard of it, but I don't diet-shop very much.

Sounds like its working for you - great, keep it up!

I was wondering how you are Doing? I am Considering this diet plan and would love some feed back.

Hi, Alwe - I'm not doing ideal protein, but I am doing something very similar, the HMR plan. Also uses the same types of products - protein shakes, puddings, etc. I've been doing about 3 shakes a day plus five - seven cups of fruits and vegetables.

I've been doing it about 2 weeks and I've lost 8 pounds. Hardly ever hungry. Looks like you are kicking some butt with your loss! Don't these protein diets rock? :carrot:

I went to the ideal protein web site and was browsing the products. The drawback with HMR is that it doesn't have much variety, so I'm shopping for similar stuff by other makers. What do you use and what do you like best from ideal?

Anyone here doing the ideal protein diet? I've been doing it for 3 weeks now and I have lost about 15 lbs. I was hoping to find others doing the same plan.

Hi!!! I am on the ideal protein diet. My step-mom did it a year and a half ago and lost 40 pds. and has kept it all off! I've been on it for almost a week and I have to say I'm having trouble with finding enough "veggies" to eat. I am sick of eating the same things over and over. :?: I actually look forward to having the IP breakfast, lunches and snacks! It adds variety into my day. Can you share some of your recipes with me? My step mom did the diet by eating lettuce, broccoli, and cucumbers with some cauliflower in between. I can't do that! I'll get bored and I'll cheat:burger:! Please send me some strength!!!

I started IP two days ago and so far I love it. My dr is supervising me and the food/packets are good, except for the pomegranite drink... ewww.. I would really like to find a friend to compare experiences.

I started IP two days ago and so far I love it. My dr is supervising me and the food/packets are good, except for the pomegranite drink... ewww.. I would really like to find a friend to compare experiences.

Hi! I also disliked the Pomegranite drink. I actually started the diet (again) 4 days ago. My step-mom sells the diet through her wellness center and last year at this time, I tried the diet; however due to a blood clot (because of my pregnancy) I had to stop after 1 1/2 weeks. It works! My step-mom lost 40 pounds and has kept it off. She still goes through phase 1 for two days after a day of indulgence, but she looks and feels great! How did you hear about IP? Have you come across any recipes for the vege's your suppossed to eat? I find that's my hardest hurdle. I'm getting bored eating broccoli, celery and cucumbers all the time! I would be glad to be a "buddy" while on the diet. We can be each others cheer leader! :cheer::cheer:

omg yes i have been on it for about 3 1/2 weeks and have lost 20 lbs. I love it. I just need some ideas on cooking different veggies. but I like most of the food just tried the chili loved it. love the bars!! I do forget to eat my sea salt some times so I get tired but i have some and I'm fine. I love the chicken soup it's great....

This weekend I took broccoli and asparagus and chopped all up. Steamed them with a little sea salt on them and after they were done I took the walden farms honey dijon and put a little on it and tossed. It was good. I also took asparagus, laid them flat on a cookie sheet, sprayed with Pam Olive Oil spray and sprinkled with S & P and baked for 20 minutes at 350. They were awesome! Even my kids ate them! I then used the left over broccoli & asparagus and put them into the asparagus soup. It was good! I really like the soups. I've found I really dont' like the puddings though. Everything else so far is going well. I lost 6 lbs the first week. So I'm hoping it stays steady for a couple of weeks. How are things going for you?

well.. 1st weigh in... 10.8 pounds gone in a week! I love this (non)diet!!!!


I take the puddings and add more water and ice in the blender.. they are yummy, especially the chocolate one!!!! The chicken soup is my favorite.

I just started IP 2 1/2 days ago, so far so good. I would love anyones dinner recipes. i am having hard time finding tasty stuff to make thay my husband will enjoy also. he's not doing IP. has anyone done this diet while pregnant? is it safe? my husband and i are trying to conceive and are going to be having artificial insemination. we've been trying for 3 yrs the old fashioned way with no success. anyway, i was just wandering if it was safe to do durning pregnancy. it was recommended to me by a chiropractor who has a wellness center. he seemed to think it would be safe. i just wanted to hear if anyone else had experience with it. would love to share this journey with you all too

I just started Ideal Protein on Thursday. I was told by a friend of mine that the first 3 days are the hardest but I can honestly say I have been through much worse.

My favorites so far are the omelet and the bars. I will have the chili tomorrow. I am excited to be able to read about everyones progress...it will help keep me motivated.

I just started on the 13th and I have lost 9 lbs. I lost it over 5 days and had to cut back as I have some medical problems to deal with. But the diet is great and I like most of the foods. I have not had a problem with all the vegetables as I love salads and the Walden Farms dressing and syrups. They are great.

Down 15.4 pounds!!! Love this diet!!

Hi! I've been on IP since 08/08/09 and I am down 17.5 lbs. :carrot: Yay! I have been walking a lot too so I can really tell a difference. :running: So far I really like the lemon bars, the chicken soup, mushroom soup, and the chocolate pudding. Someone told me the chocolate drink is good with a couple teaspoons of instant coffee and crushed ice. I'm going to try it the next time I see my doctor. I don't care for the banana pudding. Very artificial tasting. I choke it down by making sure it is really cold. ;)

well first week done and down 6.2lbs. fastest i ever lost weight. this un diet really isn't that hard. i didn't have any of the "side-effects" that they warn you of. glad to see everyone is doing so well. hope the second week goes as good as the first. good luck everyone. keep up the good work I know we can do it!

I started on 8/4 and have lost 20 pounds. I can not believe how the weight melts off. Some of my favorite foods are the vanilla shakes (I bring them for breakfast at work), lemon pudding and the camel nut bar frozen. I am so happy that my doctor recommended this to me!

I lost 6.5 lbs at my weigh in last Thursday. The second week has been easier than the first. My faves are the mushroom soup, the wildberry yogurt drink, the chili and the bars. Hopefully this week is also good on the scale.

well i've been on it since 7/11/09 and have lost 33lbs, it would be more but i did cheat the other day and that set me back. it was my first and last cheat.
I'm down 3 pant sizes its great.... i hate all the pudding but love the soups, chilli, and a few drinks, but the bars are the best. I'm getting use to eat more veggies and I enjoy trying different ways of cooking them.

I started on 8/4 and have lost 20 pounds. I can not believe how the weight melts off. Some of my favorite foods are the vanilla shakes (I bring them for breakfast at work), lemon pudding and the camel nut bar frozen. I am so happy that my doctor recommended this to me!

i'll have to try the frozen nut bars that sounds good!!!

Today I have been on the plan for four weeks. I have a total loss of 24 pounds. I am finding it harder to stay on the plan. I dont know why I want to stray. I have not, but there are days that I want to. Does anyone exercise at all? I have not done any as of yet but I am thinking of walking.

I have an appt with my dr. on 9/8 for a consultation. I have been told that if I do not meet the 10 points for criteria, doc may not want me on this diet. Apparently, she wants 100% commitment...and not to waste her time or my money.

Any idea what the 10 points are??

How many "packages" did you all buy the first time (trying to figure out my budget?)

I am very nervous...I remember how lousy I feel when I first do induction on Atkins (headaches, mostly). Did anyone experience any side effects? I am recently widowed and have put on weight...just BECAUSE I don't take the time to cook for myself, nor have the energy to figure out meals. I live alone now, so that is why I thought this diet might be good for me. I know my dr. researched for quite awhile...because they have been talking about it at least 8 months. I do trust her completely....and I like that I am monitored.:D

denise

denise

Hey guys.. just found this thread and joined.
I love ideal protein.. I've been on it since the end of Feb and have lost 95 lbs. It's not what I call easy but it's worth it! I'll be glad to help any way I can cause Lord knows I've done been there done that! I'm 20 lbs from my goal.... and I tried on a size 12 blue jeans last night and they actually buttoned! Yea, I bought 'em :) Y'all hang in there!

Wow. I haven't checked back on this post in a long time. For a while noone knew what Ideal Protein was. I'm so glad to see so many people doing this. I've been on the plan 2 1/2 months and I've lost 34 lbs. My favorite foods are the chili, orange pancakes, and the sea salt/vinegar ridges. I love veggies so this has been easy for me. The hard part has been having the Walden Farms dressings on my salad. I'm not a fan of store bought dressings and I haven't found a flavor of Walden Farms that I like.

Valkyrie...You are doing awesome!!!

Deb S., I have been doing moderate exercise. I have found that the more weight I lose, the more energy I have to do exercise. I would start out slow though.

has anyone done this diet while pregnant? is it safe? my husband and i are trying to conceive and are going to be having artificial insemination. we've been trying for 3 yrs the old fashioned way with no success. anyway, i was just wandering if it was safe to do durning pregnancy. it was recommended to me by a chiropractor who has a wellness center. he seemed to think it would be safe.

I don't know if this would be safe during pregnancy. It is VERY low calorie and you need quite a few calories when pregnant. I would talk to your physician about it before getting pregnant.

Maybe we can actually get a support group going here..especially us newbies, from those of you who have been on it for awhile. I did go to idealtogo.com and saw there was a forum there, but to get a password, you must contact the Ideal Protein people. I assume they will ask you who is monitoring your diet....so I won't know for sure until 9/8.

Right now, you are ALL an inspiration for me because I have been worried about the "taste" of the food, not particuarly liking veggies, don't like bottled salad dressings,etc.

If some of you could answer my questions above....I am SURE I will be looking for ways to eat my veggies without butter,too!!

Valkyrie00...you ARE awesome. You could really help all of us here.....

Is anyone interested in setting up a monthly support thread?

I have an appt with my dr. on 9/8 for a consultation. I have been told that if I do not meet the 10 points for criteria, doc may not want me on this diet. Apparently, she wants 100% commitment...and not to waste her time or my money.

Any idea what the 10 points are??

How many "packages" did you all buy the first time (trying to figure out my budget?)

I am very nervous...I remember how lousy I feel when I first do induction on Atkins (headaches, mostly). Did anyone experience any side effects? I am recently widowed and have put on weight...just BECAUSE I don't take the time to cook for myself, nor have the energy to figure out meals. I live alone now, so that is why I thought this diet might be good for me. I know my dr. researched for quite awhile...because they have been talking about it at least 8 months. I do trust her completely....and I like that I am monitored.:D

denise

denise

I buy 3 boxes a week each box has 7 packets. it about 84.00 if you get stuff like dressing, bbq, i'm charged 4.00 for those things. i started on a Friday that week end I felt sick and not hungry not sure why but by Monday i was GOOD TO GO. it is great and worth the money. I spend less cuz i'm not eating out 2 or 3 times a day. my kids are getting more veggies so it has really been great for me. i just have to remember my water and my sea salt. and i still have my coffee in the morneing and afternoon, but my counselor told me for every extra cup of coffee I need to drink that much more waterr and i do. i'm lucky my counselor is a friend so she lets me try stuff before I buy it or if i buy it and don't like it i trade it out for something else. I say give it a try i have lost 33 lbs since 7/11/09, i did cheat one time and it slowed me down for about 4 days, also don't skip i moved my daughter to college and got busy and skipped some packets and that slowed me dwon to. Well that's it any questions just ask i'll try to answer if i can. :D

Any advice? I am going to a meeting on 9/8 at which point I will start. Anyone know how the recipes work on the IP site?

What about veggies...can you use I can't believe it's not butter?? There are no calories...

I have an appt with my dr. on 9/8 for a consultation. I have been told that if I do not meet the 10 points for criteria, doc may not want me on this diet. Apparently, she wants 100% commitment...and not to waste her time or my money.

Any idea what the 10 points are??

How many "packages" did you all buy the first time (trying to figure out my budget?)

I am very nervous...I remember how lousy I feel when I first do induction on Atkins (headaches, mostly). Did anyone experience any side effects? I am recently widowed and have put on weight...just BECAUSE I don't take the time to cook for myself, nor have the energy to figure out meals. I live alone now, so that is why I thought this diet might be good for me. I know my dr. researched for quite awhile...because they have been talking about it at least 8 months. I do trust her completely....and I like that I am monitored.:D

denise

denise

Denise,

I did not have any "side effects". only get hungry occassionaly and it's usually because I haven't had anything to eat for a while. for example i eat my breakfast around 630 and by 1030 or 11 my stomach starts to growl. my dr. said to help with that i could have my protein packet and then eat my salad at my usual lunch time. I am surprised at how good i feel while being on a "diet" i'm not tired or moody. i've heard different things on exercise. some say what two to three weeks for your body to adjust then start slow. i was exercising before i started IP so I have been exercising since my first week. BUT i did notice that some of my usual workout routines seemed harder, but i think that is because I previously would have been loaded up with carbs before a workout and that is not the case with IP. So i have been sticking to just doing my treadclimber and monitoring my heart rate and drinking losts of water.

I have a question for anyone who might know the answer. I lost 6lbs first week then only 2my second wk. I was expecting more than that. any ideas? i've been good i haven't cheated at all so i was disappointed at my weigh-in. any thoughts or ideas would be helpful. THANKS!

second question...what is everyone using for salad dressing? i was using the make your own Good Seasons stuff (that was suggested at the office). was wandering what everyone elso was using....

Keep up the good work everyone. glad to see there are more people joining in!

I have a question for anyone who might know the answer. I lost 6lbs first week then only 2my second wk. I was expecting more than that. any ideas? i've been good i haven't cheated at all so i was disappointed at my weigh-in. any thoughts or ideas would be helpful. THANKS!


I'm doing this diet with 2 other ladies in my office. While I've been losing at a steady 3 to 3.5 lbs. a week, one of the other ladies will lose like 7 lbs. one week and then 1 lb. the next and then 5 lbs. the week after that. I think that everybody loses weight differently.

I would love to start a support thread here. I think it's great that so many people are doing this.

Nickle78 I lost 7 pounds my first week and 3 the second week. I was disappointed as well. My third week I lost 6. Hang in there. The weight will come off.

I am starting to get excited for 9/8, since I will have support here. Does anyone use the "forums" on Ideal Protein's site? I am wondering if they are supportive, too. I have been advised by most of my friends NOT to do this diet, because everyone wonders how I learn to eat "afterwards."

I would be happy if we are allowed to use the dry Good Seasonings dressing...I am just not big on bottled dressings (blame my mom for that!). I looked all over for Walden Farms at my local grocery store. I did see a lot of choices on the Ideal Protein site....

OK - big question here. How do you eat out with friends...especially the salad dressing? What do you order?

Any suggestions on what I can use to replace my beloved orange juice in the morning?

I have decided this is MY year to improve my health...many of my health problems did start after I got heavy. Wondering if it was due to the weight gain, or just life?

denise

Hey guys.. I went and weighed on Friday and had lost 5.6 lbs over the last two weeks so I'm up to 98.8! I could officially move into phase 2 of the plan. I'm not sure what your counselors are like but I can't seem to get a clear picture of what exactly phase two is.
I would NOT do this if I were pregnant... I'm a nurse too and I just don't see it being safe for the baby.
Also, I saw some things about salad dressings. Walden Farms takes some getting used to. My fave is thousand island because I can dress it up if I want. I will use it alot as a 'dip'.... add some mrs. dash to it until it's not thick but not liquidy either (is that even a word?). I eat a lot of cucumbers.
I don't do the internet/email on weekends but if anybody has any questions, I'm more than willing to help. I think a support thread would be great. I find myself getting bored sometimes and wish I could eat something different. I have thought about cheating but that would set me back 3 days and I'm not willing to do that.
Hope you all have a great labor day and I'm excited to find some other people on the same journey with me!!
I hope everyone has a great labor day!

I am starting to get excited for 9/8, since I will have support here. Does anyone use the "forums" on Ideal Protein's site? I am wondering if they are supportive, too. I have been advised by most of my friends NOT to do this diet, because everyone wonders how I learn to eat "afterwards."

I would be happy if we are allowed to use the dry Good Seasonings dressing...I am just not big on bottled dressings (blame my mom for that!). I looked all over for Walden Farms at my local grocery store. I did see a lot of choices on the Ideal Protein site....

OK - big question here. How do you eat out with friends...especially the salad dressing? What do you order?

Any suggestions on what I can use to replace my beloved orange juice in the morning?

I have decided this is MY year to improve my health...many of my health problems did start after I got heavy. Wondering if it was due to the weight gain, or just life?

denise

Denise,
I eat out alot since I travel for my job. Just keep it simple. Steak is always a good choice.. no butter, no glazes. Steamed vegetables, again with no butter, no glazes.
I order a lot of Walden Farms stuff online but I go to netrition.net because it's cheaper. WF has some travel packets that are super handy for going out to eat and travel. My fave is thousand island. Now, while it doesn't taste just like the regular, it isn't bad for what it is.
The italian is good too... kind of sweet and tart at the same time but again, for what it is, it isn't bad at all.
Boiled seafood, raw oysters, grilled chicken (no butter, no glazes), steak.... you just have to get creative.
Hang in there!

thanks everyone for your encouragement. i am trying to stay off the scale till weigh in time. so i'm not sure how week three is going. but my clothes are getting bigger so that's a good sign. thanks to everyone whom answered my questions too.

Valkyrei i was wandering how long you have been on the program. You've done wonderfull. Congratulations! i was just trying to figure out a timeline for phase one

I have been on the Ideal Protein diet for 3 weeks. I have been losing about 3.5 pounds per week - which is fine with me since I don't want to lose the weight too fast (the excess skin worries me). After the third day, I felt great. The sugar fog was gone. I may not ever eat sugar again. For salad dressing, I use olive oil and lemon juice or olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Remembering to take the vitamins and sea salt are hard for me - but I know that they are necessary. The vanilla pudding packets are my favorite. Add some lemon extract to the water before shaking. The flavor is great. For breakfast, I make a shake using the vanilla pudding packet, one Crystal Light Lemonade and 10 fl. oz. of cold water. It's very refreshing. I am not a big fan of artificial sweeteners, so I only do this one every now and then. The Pomegranate drink and the Raspberry Jelly both have collagen protein, so I have one packet per day.

For breakfast, I make a shake using the vanilla pudding packet, one Crystal Light Lemonade and 10 fl. oz. of cold water. It's very refreshing.

I'm gonna try this right now! That sounds good.

thanks everyone for your encouragement. i am trying to stay off the scale till weigh in time. so i'm not sure how week three is going. but my clothes are getting bigger so that's a good sign. thanks to everyone whom answered my questions too.

Valkyrei i was wandering how long you have been on the program. You've done wonderfull. Congratulations! i was just trying to figure out a timeline for phase one

Nikel, I've been on the program since Feb 23. As of last Friday, I had lost 98.8 lbs. I usually go every other week to weigh in. I think my doctor said I had averaged 4 lbs a week.
Bamagirl, that does sound good... I will definitley give that a try sometime!

well three weeks today and 12.5lbs! guess that's a good average. i guess i was just hoping for more. i'm never pleased, hehe. my husband would say that anyway. he also says i want everything yesterday, guess i have no patience. bam girl that breakfast does sound good.

I have a lot of ppl at my work want to know what my secret is. i could keep my dr. busy for a year! i just can't believe how good i feel considering what little amount of calories i am actually eathing. i also noticed my exercise routine is getting easier a lot faster than it usually does. I just wish i would have known about this plan sooner!

keep up the good work everyone!!

well I have been on IP for a month now.. my last weigh in was Sunday and I had lost 27.3 pounds. It seems to me it's getting harder not to want to cheat.... any suggestions? Email me... tammygutierrez34@yahoo.com

I am starting tomorrow. I decided to blog my journey along the way. http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/

I am really excited for the changes and what is to come! Feel free to email me, I started a local support group and will be email buddies with anyone that would like to be. I think the more positive people we have to help us through this the better.

I'm new to the Ideal Protien diet, day 3. Two people in my office had good results with this diet and I thought I'd give it a try. So far so good, but like some others I need ideas for some of the vegetables that I don't usually eat. I do eat spinich, turnip greens, aspagarus, okra, broccoli and cauliflower.
Any one have suggestions about any of the other select vegetables? Do you usually eat 2 cups of the same vegetable or mix it up? I don't want that much vegetable at one meal. Is that measured before or after cooking?
Thanks, Lynn

I started today. Anyone else having to do the alternative plan? Anyone doing boot camp (no restrictives)?

I'm new to the Ideal Protien diet, day 3. Two people in my office had good results with this diet and I thought I'd give it a try. So far so good, but like some others I need ideas for some of the vegetables that I don't usually eat. I do eat spinich, turnip greens, aspagarus, okra, broccoli and cauliflower.
Any one have suggestions about any of the other select vegetables? Do you usually eat 2 cups of the same vegetable or mix it up? I don't want that much vegetable at one meal. Is that measured before or after cooking?
Thanks, Lynn

There is a whole list for veggies...spice them up how you like. Mrs. Dash, or your own select spices.

As for 2 cups, it is mandatory. What I am not sure on is the raw vs. cooked, I would think it would be the raw, the only ones that shrink would be leafy stuff.

If you aren't eating the portions (veggies), not taking the vitamins, etc. you will not lose weight.

My doctor told me that it was 2 c. of cooked veggies....whew....it is a lot to get down. I guess I do better with raw veggies.

Where are you finding Crystal Light with Splenda? I hear other parts of the country have it. Doc says I can't have aspartane.

I did make up a steak sauce that tasted pretty good. (Can't say the same for the tartar sauce I made). Anyways, I took some of the Walden Farms catsup, mixed it with some WF BBQ sauce, added a little bit of worchestershire sauce and soy sauce, garlic and some Splenda. Tasted amazing.

I only bought the oatmeal for my first week, and geez, I am tired of it already...what do you all eat for breakfast? (just wondering what to buy next??)

What bars do you like? What puddings do you like? What WF salad dressings do you like.....?? (I tried the salt and vinegar chips as croutons on my Leek soup today....had to wait a while for them to get softer...added cooked broccoli, too.)

denise/Michigan

My doctor told me that it was 2 c. of cooked veggies....whew....it is a lot to get down. I guess I do better with raw veggies.

Where are you finding Crystal Light with Splenda? I hear other parts of the country have it. Doc says I can't have aspartane.

I did make up a steak sauce that tasted pretty good. (Can't say the same for the tartar sauce I made). Anyways, I took some of the Walden Farms catsup, mixed it with some WF BBQ sauce, added a little bit of worchestershire sauce and soy sauce, garlic and some Splenda. Tasted amazing.

I only bought the oatmeal for my first week, and geez, I am tired of it already...what do you all eat for breakfast? (just wondering what to buy next??)

What bars do you like? What puddings do you like? What WF salad dressings do you like.....?? (I tried the salt and vinegar chips as croutons on my Leek soup today....had to wait a while for them to get softer...added cooked broccoli, too.)

denise/Michigan

As far as I know crystal light is only Nutra Sweet, they have a deal with them. I wish it came in Splenda, while on IP we can't have Nutra Sweet or Aspartme (base name).

The sauce sounds good. There is only 1 grocer that sells WF here in WA state...I will have to trek there this week, only because your BBQ sauce sounds good!

I was thinking I would eat egg beaters in the morning or one of the drinks. Today I ate wild berry yogurt, that was good. My fav bars (I tried them at the dr.office) is the caramel nut frozenand the lemon poppy (two different textures). The butterscotch pudding is very YUMMY. I had that with lunch.

Good Luck!

TT
Seattle
follow my blog at http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/

Thanks for the post about nutrasweet and aspartame. I didn't know that they were not allowed on the Ideal Protein diet. I remember reading awhile back that aspartame would prevent you from losing weight. My diet coach gave me the recipe for the vanilla pudding/Crystal Light drink. I will have to ask her about it when I see her again. I also tried the White Tea/Peach Crystal Light. It tasted great, but it makes plain water taste boring. (very addictive). I tried the Omelette last week and could hardly finish eating it. Not my favorite. Since cucumbers are still in season here, I will cut one up, measure and use as a snack when I get hungry. It is hard to get two cups of veggies and a salad in for two meals a day. One thing I have learned in the last week, you have to strictly follow the diet - eat everything that is required for the day, consume one teaspoon of sea salt, take the vitamins and you cannot cheat. Then the pounds will melt away.

Splenda does have two flavor packets (raspberry and lemon). I haven't tried them yet - but will be looking for them. Google SPLENDA and BEVERAGES for more info.

Splenda does have two flavor packets (raspberry and lemon). I haven't tried them yet - but will be looking for them. Google SPLENDA and BEVERAGES for more info.
Thanks! I will have to see who has those! Like I said only 1 grocery store here has the Walden farms stuff, but there is always online ordering!

TT
Seattle
Follow my journey to a thinner me blog at http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/

Thanks! I will have to see who has those! Like I said only 1 grocery store here has the Walden farms stuff, but there is always online ordering!

TT
Seattle
Follow my journey to a thinner me blog at http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/

Are you referring to Fruit2O? Because on IP you can't have those or any sort of sparkling water because of the acid.

Maybe we can actually get a support group going here..especially us newbies, from those of you who have been on it for awhile. I did go to idealtogo.com and saw there was a forum there, but to get a password, you must contact the Ideal Protein people. I assume they will ask you who is monitoring your diet....so I won't know for sure until 9/8.

Right now, you are ALL an inspiration for me because I have been worried about the "taste" of the food, not particuarly liking veggies, don't like bottled salad dressings,etc.

If some of you could answer my questions above....I am SURE I will be looking for ways to eat my veggies without butter,too!!

Valkyrie00...you ARE awesome. You could really help all of us here.....

You know some of the foods I hate and others I love!! I hate all the puddings and most the drinks, but love the soups, chilli, bars, choc drink, jello, and there are about 12 dressing to try i like most of them. and the other side things really help. I NEVER eat veggie before only corn thats it for year but now I eat more and have found different ways of cooking them. My son even eats the veggies and I can't keep my daughter away form the premix drinks Which I use the van for my coffeef , and she loves the bars before she races. give it a try it is hard at first I never got hungry but did n't feel good the first 3 days cuz ofthe pills and not enought water but after that its been great. NO ONE thought i'd beable to do it but I showed them.... So try what do you have to lose by LBS ??????

I just wanted to check in with everyone and see how the weekend went! I hope everyone hangs in there.... it's just so nice to not be alone in this!

I went to the mall on Friday and I wore a pair of heels that I haven't worn in a couple of months. My feet were screaming! The shoes were just loose enough to cause my feet to slightly slide as I walked. There were blisters on my feet when I got home. So far, I really cannot tell that I have lost weight (I guess I have so much to lose). I too am looking forward to the time when I really notice the weight loss. I do worry about finding clothes to wear until I get to my ideal weight.

I went to the mall on Friday and I wore a pair of heels that I haven't worn in a couple of months. My feet were screaming! The shoes were just loose enough to cause my feet to slightly slide as I walked. There were blisters on my feet when I got home. So far, I really cannot tell that I have lost weight (I guess I have so much to lose). I too am looking forward to the time when I really notice the weight loss. I do worry about finding clothes to wear until I get to my ideal weight.
Poor feet! Give them a good soak! Today my shoes felt really loose, but this is only day 3, maybe I am losing water faster?

As for clothes I thought about that too...then I thought maybe take a few select ones and have them taken in so I don't have to buy new things until I am at my ideal weight. Of course if you know how to sew...you could DIY.

I'm starting the program today - this board has really helped to calm my nerves about starting and I look forward to sharing in the success that you have all had so far!

So far, my weight loss has only made my clothes feel comfortable instead of tight. For my pants, I am hoping that a belt will work for awhile. My coworker suggested a resale shop.

So far, my weight loss has only made my clothes feel comfortable instead of tight. For my pants, I am hoping that a belt will work for awhile. My coworker suggested a resale shop.
Not sure where you live...but yeah a resale shop, goodwill, value village, and even Ross & TJ Maxx could be options. Up here the Value village is almost as much as the Ross/TJ Maxx!


TT
Seattle
Follow my journey to a thinner me blog at http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/

I have been on the Ideal Protein diet for 3 weeks. I have been losing about 3.5 pounds per week - which is fine with me since I don't want to lose the weight too fast (the excess skin worries me). After the third day, I felt great. The sugar fog was gone. I may not ever eat sugar again. For salad dressing, I use olive oil and lemon juice or olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Remembering to take the vitamins and sea salt are hard for me - but I know that they are necessary. The vanilla pudding packets are my favorite. Add some lemon extract to the water before shaking. The flavor is great. For breakfast, I make a shake using the vanilla pudding packet, one Crystal Light Lemonade and 10 fl. oz. of cold water. It's very refreshing. I am not a big fan of artificial sweeteners, so I only do this one every now and then. The Pomegranate drink and the Raspberry Jelly both have collagen protein, so I have one packet per day.
The blueberry, cranberry, pomegrante drink and the raspberry jello both have beef collagen in them which will help to keep your skin from being loose. I am not sure how much we should have each day but I am having one. I was vegan/vegetarian for 26 years but for the last 4 days I have not been due to the fact I don't want the loose skin either. Is there a vegn' option for collagen on the market in a pill at the natural food store...but I will have to find out.


TT
Seattle
Follow my journey to a thinner me blog at http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/

Hi everyone, I just signed up for the program today, I got my starter items and am starting tomorrow. I am 21 years old and have always been a little over weight and am tired of it! I do have a sweet tooth and think it may be a little bit hard for me in the beggining, so I am hoping that with your help and ideas for different varieties on the foods, and the help of the consultants here in town I will be able to achieve my goal, feel healthy and look great!

Ohmygosh....I had my first weighin today. My scale had shown about a 4# loss...but when I got to the doctors, scale showed a 5.5# loss. I started dancing around the office...they were all laughing. I lost 2% bodyfat, and 2" off my hips (I think I wore thinner capris this time, tho....who loses 2" in a week??).

All in all, I am very happy. I was never much of a veggie eater, so I am struggling with that and the water, but I feel pretty good. Bought some single packets today to try...some puddings,bars,soups,etc. I like that I am being monitored...maybe that gives me more incentive.

Welcome to the new gals on the "treatment plan."

Jorae: I was REALLY worried about the sweet tooth, too. I expected that - as usual - I would have terrible cravings.....but I really didn't. I cut up my bar in little pieces, or would have a few of those chocolate soy thingys. The first week was much easier than I anticipated. Usually, when I have done "induction" on Atkins, I had terrible headaches or nausea the first 3-4 days....but I didn't on this.

If you guys order Walden Farms, the cheapest place I've found it is netrition.com . If anyone finds it any cheaper, please share with the group!
I did find this coupon when looking for WF products where you can buy one, get one free; buy two, get two free, etc....The link is:
http://www.waldenfarms.com/ww/

Valkyrie....I got my order from netrition.com today. I was really impressed with how they packaged it and how soon it got here. At the Meijer store, WF costs $3.99 but not a big selection.So far, netrition is the cheapest I found.

Aren't you excited for your next weigh in....you might have lost 100#!! Keep posting here....we need you as our inspiration.

Is it weird that I now CRAVE my big fat salad at lunch???

Valkyrie....I got my order from netrition.com today. I was really impressed with how they packaged it and how soon it got here. At the Meijer store, WF costs $3.99 but not a big selection.So far, netrition is the cheapest I found.

Aren't you excited for your next weigh in....you might have lost 100#!! Keep posting here....we need you as our inspiration.

I am pretty excited for sure! I'm working in El Paso this week so I'll go in when I land at home on Friday. I'll be sure to post the results before I turn my computer off for the weekend! I'm like you about netrition... They're fast and very thorough with their packaging, which I appreciate. What have you found to be your favorites with them?

Torchlaker, I know what you mean. When I got on the scales for Week 2 I was stunned! I was actually losing weight (for the first time in 11 years)!!

alwe74, I was just telling my husband last night that I am now craving salads instead of breads! It is amazing. I was a sugarholic for my entire life. After three days on this diet, I don't even want anything sweet.

Jorae, good job. By doing this diet now, you will probably save yourself years of health problems. I started baking when I was 9 (54 now) and would rather eat sweets than anything else. After 3 days on this diet, I feel so good that I may never eat sweets again. My hobby is baking: pies, cakes, cookies, anything sweet. But after the first 3 days of IP, I woke up feeling so good (no sugar fog) that I realized that my biggest problem in life was too much sugar. I feel so energized now that I don't think I will ever eat the sweets again.

Jorae, good job. By doing this diet now, you will probably save yourself years of health problems. I started baking when I was 9 (54 now) and would rather eat sweets than anything else. After 3 days on this diet, I feel so good that I may never eat sweets again. My hobby is baking: pies, cakes, cookies, anything sweet. But after the first 3 days of IP, I woke up feeling so good (no sugar fog) that I realized that my biggest problem in life was too much sugar. I feel so energized now that I don't think I will ever eat the sweets again.

I just had to share this... I've not cheated while doing this diet.. at all. I've been super hard core with it.
I recently branched out to coffee... and got a local coffee shop to throw in some sugar free syrup.
About a week and a half ago, I went to get another and I wasn't watching and I think they put the real syrup in the coffee. I knew it tasted just way to good but chalked it up to an extra shot or something, plus I thought my fiance had added a splenda to it for me because he's good about that kind of thing. Anyway, about an hour or so after I drank it, I thought my head was going to pop off my shoulders it hurt so bad!! I got nauseated and just felt so bad that I went to bed. I honestly think it was because sugar was introduced all of the sudden and my doctor agrees with me. I only lost 1 lb that week too so it was a big set back. Needless to say.. no more coffee for me :)
I'm glad you're feeling great.. just hang in there.
We are all rooting for you!

I tried the jello today for the first time. It was good. I was suprised. I have 6 weeks under my belt and 33 pounds lost. I am 1/3 the way to my weight loss. I could not be happier.

Has anyone had people notice their weight loss? It is such a good feeling!!!

Gosh, I am so happy everyone is posting here. I had nothing but negative feedback when I was comtemplating this diet...so this helps towards the "positive".

OK -- bamagirl...I sure am not craving salads yet....and i am into my 2nd week. Wonder if that will ever happen? At least I am not craving sweets..which is my biggest downfall.

Valkyrie.....I have just tried a few of the WF. Forgot to order the single packets....boy, was I upset when they weren't in the box. I am having the cocktail sauce tonight, but I doctored it up with more horseradish and garlic.
I use a tiny bit of the pancake syrup on my oatmeal (maybe a tablespoon)..and I am surprised how good it tastes. I read on the netrition board about using the honey dijon to pour over veggies...and to use the coleslaw for making tarter sauce (when I tried it with their mayo, I nearly choked!!). I make my own salad dressing but bought the tomato/basil in case I forget to make it.

I also started watering down the mango/peach drink from IP....It was just too thick for me...and I split it into 3 days. I still miss my OJ.....any suggestions?

I was going to suggest this forum to my doctor to get more people on this. I have to believe most people would like ideas, support, etc......I also suggested a support group of people from her office......I also took in my camera for them to take a "before" picture of me (they hadn't done that).

I just got done eating the vanilla pudding with 12 oz. of water and the Crystal Light Orange Sunrise packet. It was really good!

Well I just have to vent today. I am sooo tired of people being so negative about this diet. I started this diet almost 3 months ago and I have lost 40 lbs. I have consistently lost weight, I eat more fresh vegetables then I have in my entire life, and I have even started running 3 times a week. So I get really tired of people telling me "That diet is not safe"and "You'll gain all of the weight right back when you start to eat NORMAL". First of all, the diet is completely monitored and I have yet to have side effects (unless a healthier BMI and more energy are side effects). Secondly, if by NORMAL they mean the way I used to eat that got me over 200 lbs., then they are absolutely right, I won't go back to eating NORMAL. :soap:

I weighed in today and I was down another 2.5 lbs. 2-3 lbs. a week seems to be my pace. I'm OK with it though.

Boy I'm glad to have found you all to talk to. sticking to the diet pretty close despite my co-worker bringing me a birthday cake. Turning that down wasn't too hard since it was store bought! I did have a sip of wine, and it made me nauseated. Now can I only eat meat and veggies at the tailgate party this weekend?
Thanks for the info on artifical sweeteners. I think I missed that info when I got started.
Does anyone know about how many calories is provided daily on this diet?
Thanks,
Lynn

Really, alwe74, I have to agree with you. People act like being addicted to sugar and being overweight are healthier than this diet! I think we are only getting between 700 and 800 calories - which is why you have to do everything that is required for the diet. If you starting eating too much, you will not want to stop eating. The weigh-ins are really important to help motivate me and help me stay on track.

Also, alwe74, CONGRATULATIONS on your weight loss so far. You are an inspiration to me. I have always heard that healthy weight loss is only about 3 lbs. a week anyway.

Boy I'm glad to have found you all to talk to. sticking to the diet pretty close despite my co-worker bringing me a birthday cake. Turning that down wasn't too hard since it was store bought! I did have a sip of wine, and it made me nauseated. Now can I only eat meat and veggies at the tailgate party this weekend?
Thanks for the info on artifical sweeteners. I think I missed that info when I got started.
Does anyone know about how many calories is provided daily on this diet?
Thanks,
Lynn
Roughly 900-1000 calories

Here is the website for Ideal Protein. trantiendiet.com. It has some good information.

I just got done eating the vanilla pudding with 12 oz. of water and the Crystal Light Orange Sunrise packet. It was really good!

Well I just have to vent today. I am sooo tired of people being so negative about this diet. I started this diet almost 3 months ago and I have lost 40 lbs. I have consistently lost weight, I eat more fresh vegetables then I have in my entire life, and I have even started running 3 times a week. So I get really tired of people telling me "That diet is not safe"and "You'll gain all of the weight right back when you start to eat NORMAL". First of all, the diet is completely monitored and I have yet to have side effects (unless a healthier BMI and more energy are side effects). Secondly, if by NORMAL they mean the way I used to eat that got me over 200 lbs., then they are absolutely right, I won't go back to eating NORMAL. :soap:

I weighed in today and I was down another 2.5 lbs. 2-3 lbs. a week seems to be my pace. I'm OK with it though.
Keep it up!!! People who don't understand sometimes say stupid things. :-) You are doing what is best for you and that is all that matters!

Right now, I have only told 3-4 people I am on the diet. Tonight is a red hat function, and I chose to skip it. It was potluck...and I knew there probably wouldn't be much I could eat. I am only in my 2nd week, and I want to have the control (like at a restaurant).

Before I went on IP, I asked a number of people what their opinion was.....I got the usual answers, "You will gain the weight back" -"doesn't sound like a do-able diet for very long" - "Why can't you just do the same thing you did before to lose the weight" - "If you just gave up the sugar and exercised....". I finally followed my gut. For me, it isn't just about being thinner, it is about being healthier. Alwe74....you sure sound like you are healthier to me. I try to tell those that ask that it is a "treatment plan." That is how doc explained it to me......we are not going to be doing these packets lifelong...we are just trying to get our bodies healthier again. Treatment plan......yeah, I like it.

Gonna ask a "yucky" question here...but I need to know. I had to take a laxative last night cuz I only WENT 2 times last week. I am eating the veggies, lettuce and water.....did anyone else have this problem?

Can't wait to read Valkyrie's email tonight to see how she did.....

Right now, I have only told 3-4 people I am on the diet. Tonight is a red hat function, and I chose to skip it. It was potluck...and I knew there probably wouldn't be much I could eat. I am only in my 2nd week, and I want to have the control (like at a restaurant).

Before I went on IP, I asked a number of people what their opinion was.....I got the usual answers, "You will gain the weight back" -"doesn't sound like a do-able diet for very long" - "Why can't you just do the same thing you did before to lose the weight" - "If you just gave up the sugar and exercised....". I finally followed my gut. For me, it isn't just about being thinner, it is about being healthier. Alwe74....you sure sound like you are healthier to me. I try to tell those that ask that it is a "treatment plan." That is how doc explained it to me......we are not going to be doing these packets lifelong...we are just trying to get our bodies healthier again. Treatment plan......yeah, I like it.

Gonna ask a "yucky" question here...but I need to know. I had to take a laxative last night cuz I only WENT 2 times last week. I am eating the veggies, lettuce and water.....did anyone else have this problem?

Can't wait to read Valkyrie's email tonight to see how she did.....

I'm working in El Paso this week and will be flying back home tomorrow and am headed to my place as soon as I land so I'll be sure to post before I shut down tomorrow.
As far as you other 'issue'... it happened to me too. I was told Mag Citrate was all you could take... have you all heard something else? It's weird but it's not so much a problem anymore and I haven't done anything different.
And don't worry about what everyone else says... just do what you can do!
Hey, I was wondering.. I dont know anything about any of you guys... can we maybe do a little intro? I'm interested in getting to know all of you but have no idea 'who' you guys are!
I'm Tiffany, 37, engaged, live in Jackson, MS and am a RN working as a project manager for a computer software company.
Anybody else want to share? :)

Doc told me that I could use Colace (which is what I used all these years when I needed it). Sure didn't want to resort to a laxative last night, but was feeling really "poopy" -- lol!!

I will share.....I am a 62 yr old widow. My husband died in Iraq 1-1/2 years ago....so it has been very hard. I let my health and my weight (and many other things) go.....it was hard enough to get up every day. I am a retired police dispatcher (my husband was a retired fire chief)...I live in paradise....on a wild river (Rapid River) near beautiful Torch Lake MI. Torch Lake is considered the most beautiful lake in US by National Geographic magazine. (remember to remind me of paradise comment in January/February!!!).

Valkyrie....I was in your beautiful state of MS 3 months after hubby died. My dear friend lives in LA, and I went down to stay with her a month just to try to get my head together. She had to teach a class in Gulfport MS for a week...so I went along. I cried when I saw Gulfport yet was so impressed by the people there.

Valkyrie....you were wondering what Phase II entailed.....I just looked up the site that bamagirl suggested (trantiendiet.com)....and it has a very detailed explanation of all the phases. Phase II is not much different than phase I.

Thanks, bamagirl for that link. It certainly does have a lot of info on it.

Thanks for the support everyone! I'm better today. I'll introduce myself. I'm Angie, 35, married, 1 son (just turned 2) and I live in Wyo.

Hi all, as an introduction, I'm turning 49 Sunday, and that plus some aches and pains have motivated me to get into better shape. I've been going to the gym and am just starting week 2 on IP diet. I live in ARkansas, I'm an RN, working in a community setting. ( One thing I do is encourage healthy habits in my paitents, but finding a way to motivate anyone to change is difficult- including myself)
Valkarie, I'd love to hear about your job. I went to school in Jackson, graduated from UMC Nursing program in 85.
I'm married with one child, a married daughter.
Thanks all for being here for support.
Lynn

Has anyone had difficulty losing the 2nd week? I get on my scale every morning and it hasn't moved since I weighed in on Tuesday?

Has anyone had difficulty losing the 2nd week? I get on my scale every morning and it hasn't moved since I weighed in on Tuesday?
Not healthy to look at the scale everyday! :-) I am starting week two tomorrow so I will let you know next Friday.

Hi everyone! I'm a 22 yr old medical assistant and I've been on the program for two weeks. I did have trouble the first few days of week two. Absolutely no change. Then this morning 1 1/2 # yay! There are six people in our office including my doctor, and we were all lost little to none this week. But our official weigh in is monday. Hope everyone does good this weekend! Good Luck!

I just thought I would post my success!

Weeks on IP: 1 (Today was offically 1 week)
Lbs lost: 19 (aunt red visiting too)
Chest: down 1/4"
Waist: no change
Hip: down 1 1/4"
Arm: up 2" (I think the muscle was flexed!)
Thigh: down 2"

WOOOHOOOO

Remember ymwv (your mileage will vary).

Follow my blog (http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/)

TT
Seattle, WA

Wonderful!! It's so nice to 'meet' all of you guys!! I'm loving learning about you!
So I weighed today and only lost 1.2 #.. that's the least I've lost since I've been on this. The silver lining is that it put me at 100 lbs exactly! I pre-celebrated yesterday and bought myself some western boots... not that I need them... not that I'll wear them often but you know what, I've never been able to wear western boots... woo hoo! Plus I got into an XL shirt this week too... that's a first too!
I hope everyone has a great weekend! Y'all have me so excited I'll probably check in on Sunday night and catch up with the latest!

ValKyrie.....how wonderful!! What an accomplishment to lose 100#!!! I am very proud of you...(me, smiling right now!!)

GoddessTT -- 19#?? Amazing....and you are right, I should NOT get on the scale everyday. I tried putting it in the garage, but I still went out to get it. Maybe the basement???

I DO have to say that even tho my scale shows no weight loss, I am feeling pretty good...better than I have felt in awhile. Doc says she has 2 women on IP who have IBS, and they have had good luck. I also have fibromlaygia, and really hoping that losing some weight might help with the aches. Like Lynn...I have aches and pains...I want to know how much is just due to aging, or is it my weight??

ValKyrie.....how wonderful!! What an accomplishment to lose 100#!!! I am very proud of you...(me, smiling right now!!)

GoddessTT -- 19#?? Amazing....and you are right, I should NOT get on the scale everyday. I tried putting it in the garage, but I still went out to get it. Maybe the basement???

I DO have to say that even tho my scale shows no weight loss, I am feeling pretty good...better than I have felt in awhile. Doc says she has 2 women on IP who have IBS, and they have had good luck. I also have fibromlaygia, and really hoping that losing some weight might help with the aches. Like Lynn...I have aches and pains...I want to know how much is just due to aging, or is it my weight??
Yes 19lbs. Mostly water weight I suspect.

You should put it in the basement and not step on it but 1 time a week. Is that the scale your dr. uses? You can only go by 1 scale, using multiples will show varying results.

WOOHOO Valkyrie!!! Congratulations!!!

Wonderful!! It's so nice to 'meet' all of you guys!! I'm loving learning about you!
So I weighed today and only lost 1.2 #.. that's the least I've lost since I've been on this. The silver lining is that it put me at 100 lbs exactly! I pre-celebrated yesterday and bought myself some western boots... not that I need them... not that I'll wear them often but you know what, I've never been able to wear western boots... woo hoo! Plus I got into an XL shirt this week too... that's a first too!
I hope everyone has a great weekend! Y'all have me so excited I'll probably check in on Sunday night and catch up with the latest!
Awesome job! Keep up the good work!

I can't wait until I can fit in my jimmy choo shoes (I use to be a huge shoe whore LOL LOL). :-)

I just thought I would post my success!

Weeks on IP: 1 (Today was offically 1 week)
Lbs lost: 19 (aunt red visiting too)
Chest: down 1/4"
Waist: no change
Hip: down 1 1/4"
Arm: up 2" (I think the muscle was flexed!)
Thigh: down 2"

WOOOHOOOO

Remember ymwv (your mileage will vary).

Follow my blog (http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/)

TT
Seattle, WA

That is just incredible!!! You are doing so awesome!!! And I'm so with you on the shoe whore thing... I just bought some 'hooker' boots and can't wait til it cools off to wear them! lol
Keep blogging!

Doc told me that I could use Colace (which is what I used all these years when I needed it). Sure didn't want to resort to a laxative last night, but was feeling really "poopy" -- lol!!

I will share.....I am a 62 yr old widow. My husband died in Iraq 1-1/2 years ago....so it has been very hard. I let my health and my weight (and many other things) go.....it was hard enough to get up every day. I am a retired police dispatcher (my husband was a retired fire chief)...I live in paradise....on a wild river (Rapid River) near beautiful Torch Lake MI. Torch Lake is considered the most beautiful lake in US by National Geographic magazine. (remember to remind me of paradise comment in January/February!!!).

Valkyrie....I was in your beautiful state of MS 3 months after hubby died. My dear friend lives in LA, and I went down to stay with her a month just to try to get my head together. She had to teach a class in Gulfport MS for a week...so I went along. I cried when I saw Gulfport yet was so impressed by the people there.

MS is a great place.. pretty diverse culturally and dang good food. I'm so sorry to hear of your husband's passing but am glad to hear that you're getting back on track. I love being up in that part of the world.. I had a project in northern MN a while back and just loved it.. snow and all. Of course, I didn't have to shovel driveways or really dust snow off of that car. I'd just go crank it (or start it in other words) and let it get really hot on the inside and let the snow melt. lol
Gulfport really did get hit hard.. it's funny how something like that can change you. I have a total hurricane readiness room dang near it and it now includes IP stuff... lol

Valkyrie....you were wondering what Phase II entailed.....I just looked up the site that bamagirl suggested (trantiendiet.com)....and it has a very detailed explanation of all the phases. Phase II is not much different than phase I.

Thanks, bamagirl for that link. It certainly does have a lot of info on it.

Thanks to you both for this link... it's got lots of great information!

Hi all, as an introduction, I'm turning 49 Sunday, and that plus some aches and pains have motivated me to get into better shape. I've been going to the gym and am just starting week 2 on IP diet. I live in ARkansas, I'm an RN, working in a community setting. ( One thing I do is encourage healthy habits in my paitents, but finding a way to motivate anyone to change is difficult- including myself)
Valkarie, I'd love to hear about your job. I went to school in Jackson, graduated from UMC Nursing program in 85.
I'm married with one child, a married daughter.
Thanks all for being here for support.
Lynn

Hi Lynn... so nice to 'meet' you!
UMC is such a huge place but can imagine they have an awesome program since it's known to be such a great teaching hospital.
As far as my job, I basically go into long term care centers and assist with the transition from charting on paper to charting on computers of one type or another. I was a DON for 8 years in LA, did some stents in critical care and rehab and just got burned out. this has been a lifesaver. I always said my dream job was to travel and get paid for it... I had more of a samantha brown kind of job in mind but this is pretty good too :) How about yourself?

WOOHOO Valkyrie!!! Congratulations!!!

Thank you! How has your weekend been?

Hi Everyone!

So glad I found this site - I could use some help from others in the same boat!

I tried signing up on the IdealToGo forums but the moderator hasn't gotten back to me to approve my registration. It's been about 5 days so I have no idea what will happen with that. It doesn't look like there is a whole lot of activity on that board right now - hopefully that will change.

A little about me..... I am 32 years old and with a 4yo son and a 7yo step-son. About 3 years ago my first husband and I separated (his choice) and I was so devastated that I dropped about 40lbs. Then I met/married my Mr. Wonderful and have since put that all back on :(

A friend of mine from work was laid off a year or so ago and in February of this year she started this program. She has lost about 70lbs so far and looks amazing!! She is so committed to this plan that she has become a Rep for IP. Because she has had such great success I decided to do IP as well. I just finished my first week.

It went okay, I guess. I'm down about 5lbs but I've had some setbacks this weekend. I somehow injured one of my ribs and am in a lot of pain so I'm on narcotics. I'm also fighting a cold or something so I'm not feeling 100% which makes it hard to stick with this program. I just want to make sure my body is healthy -- I don't want to prolong my illness or injury at all.

Finding this board has renewed my determination and commitment to this program! I can't wait to start fresh tomorrow! I'm anxious to try some of the recipies that have been mentioned in this thread. Last week I had the leek soup and I did not like it all. Yuk! I tried pouring it over steamed broccoli and just chugging it really fast - I just couldn't do it. I am looking forward to trying some new things this week. I have my next appt on Tuesday.

I'm so glad this thread exists :) It will definitely help me along.

Welcome Gink. This has been a really great thread so I'm glad you found us.

Well my weekend went OK. I was out a lot and so I had to improvise on some meals. I have been having some cravings. Usually when I have these it means I'm not getting enough sea salt. I'm gonna have to start watching that more carefully. Hope you all had a great weekend.

Hi everyone:
My weekend was okay...very tired and lethargic tho (think it is because I can't "poop"). I was out everyday, and found it difficult at both restaurants to get something I could eat. I didn't cheat, but again, had a hard time getting in the veggies and water.

On my scale this morning, I showed a small gain. I finally took another laxative last night. My body always seems to shut down if I go on a new medication, or eat VERY differently.

Gink, I got an email from IdealtoGo a few weeks ago. Apparently, that site is for people that aren't going to a doctor or health professional. I wanted to buy some products that my dr. didn't have, and he said he could not do it unless my doctor told him that it was okay. I had mentioned the forums to him but he never said whether we could use them. I never asked my doctor about it.....and hey, welcome. I am just finishing my 2nd week. I weigh in tomorrow.

I did not like the leek soup either...am returning 5 packets for chicken soup. I had that this weekend with some added veggies and it tastes a whole lot better...(I really water my soups, drinks and oatmeal down....they are way too thick for me.

So nice to see so many on this board.....it should help all of us.

Valkyrie....I guess I think I love this area just because of its beauty. I lived in Cleveland with my husband over 30 years...and even tho we had an acre of land....my neighbors were right next door. Here, I have 3 acres and can't see either of my neighbors. I wasn't sure I was going to stay after my husband's death, but the beauty and peacefulness seem to be just what I need.

Today is Day 7 for me and I had my first weigh in this morning- down 7.5 lbs this week - Yay!!

Thanks for the support everyone! I'm better today. I'll introduce myself. I'm Angie, 35, married, 1 son (just turned 2) and I live in Wyo.

hey vjm here i'm 48 and been on since 7/11/09 lost 37lbs so far, I live in WY too where in WY do you live i'm in Evanston

Today is Day 7 for me and I had my first weigh in this morning- down 7.5 lbs this week - Yay!!

Congratulations! That's great!!! :broc:

hey vjm here i'm 48 and been on since 7/11/09 lost 37lbs so far, I live in WY too where in WY do you live i'm in Evanston

I'm in Lyman. Not too far away!!!

Today is Day 7 for me and I had my first weigh in this morning- down 7.5 lbs this week - Yay!!
Congrats! Keep up the good work!

I had a rough day yesterday. I didn't eat much and definetly didn't eat the salads or the packets (well 1 bar at night). I didn't cheat, just back to no desire to eat which only makes me gain.

I weighed in yesterday for my two week mark. I have offically lost 16#!
http://www.3fatchicks.net/img/bar083/fireworks01/lb/272/170/256/.png (http://www.3fatchicks.com/)

I'm in Lyman. Not too far away!!!

wow small world! do you see Tad G over there for your packets . your doing a great job keep it up!!

http://www.3fatchicks.net/img/purpvinebar/slider-scale/lb/270/150/233/.png (http://www.3fatchicks.com/)

I also just started the ideal protein plan. In fact only on day 2..... I am feeling motivated!! I have 2 big trips planned for this winter and would like to feel good about myself while on them. Has anyone been on the IP plan and went off for a week ( say for a cruise, trip) etc? just wondering what the effects of weight gain are etc....

Welcome Sandra B......I am so glad I found this board. In fact, I wrote it down for my dr. to give anyone that is getting the IP from her...if they wanted support. I, too, have a big trip planned in March....but I am hoping for good results by my birthday in February....not just weight loss, but feeling better all over.

I weighed in at the 2-week mark today. I DID lose 3#...surprisingly enough. Like you, GoddessTT, I am having a hard time feeling motivated to eat. Talked to doc about my "issue" and they put me on a detox pill to try every night to see if "things" move. As far as the fatigue, they felt it would get better this week, but if not, to bump up another protein. They also wanted me to drink something "warm" -- so they gave me some green tea bags. I never drink tea....but I will do anything to make things MOVE!!

Hellena Handbasket (what a great name!!)....aren't you the one that is doing it with the dr. you work for, and others in your office? You did amazing! Is everyone else having good luck too???

Did you guys know that puddings are "unlimited"? That is what they told me today.....I should have bought some puddings!!! I did try a vanilla and added some sugarfree Tofrani almond syrup...tasted pretty good.

Gotta go watch the Tigers/Indians game. Have no idea who to root for....I have been a diehard Indians fan for over 20 years, but I have lived in Michigan for over 4...so I keep thinking I should change allegiances...especially with the Tigers in first place.

Welcome Sandra B......I am so glad I found this board. In fact, I wrote it down for my dr. to give anyone that is getting the IP from her...if they wanted support. I, too, have a big trip planned in March....but I am hoping for good results by my birthday in February....not just weight loss, but feeling better all over.

I weighed in at the 2-week mark today. I DID lose 3#...surprisingly enough. Like you, GoddessTT, I am having a hard time feeling motivated to eat. Talked to doc about my "issue" and they put me on a detox pill to try every night to see if "things" move. As far as the fatigue, they felt it would get better this week, but if not, to bump up another protein. They also wanted me to drink something "warm" -- so they gave me some green tea bags. I never drink tea....but I will do anything to make things MOVE!!

Hellena Handbasket (what a great name!!)....aren't you the one that is doing it with the dr. you work for, and others in your office? You did amazing! Is everyone else having good luck too???

Did you guys know that puddings are "unlimited"? That is what they told me today.....I should have bought some puddings!!! I did try a vanilla and added some sugarfree Tofrani almond syrup...tasted pretty good.

Gotta go watch the Tigers/Indians game. Have no idea who to root for....I have been a diehard Indians fan for over 20 years, but I have lived in Michigan for over 4...so I keep thinking I should change allegiances...especially with the Tigers in first place.
I never liked eating lol. In fact I need to go eat lunch, but I wanted to say that you must do what they say to help get the results you want. So if drinking tea is the thing...drink the tea!

I love the puddings, they are not restricted. The only items restricted are like the bars, the puffs and such. Those are limited to 1 per day, there is also chilli and bolganaise that is a 1 per week item.

I had a rough day yesterday. I didn't eat much and definetly didn't eat the salads or the packets (well 1 bar at night). I didn't cheat, just back to no desire to eat which only makes me gain.

I know how you feel. I'm in that same rut right now. My problem is that I'll have a phase where I crave everything and then I will not want to eat anything (like right now). I just wish I could get on an even keel.

I weighed in yesterday for my two week mark. I have offically lost 16#!
http://www.3fatchicks.net/img/bar083/fireworks01/lb/272/170/256/.png (http://www.3fatchicks.com/)

Congratulations!!!

wow small world! do you see Tad G over there for your packets . your doing a great job keep it up!!

http://www.3fatchicks.net/img/purpvinebar/slider-scale/lb/270/150/233/.png (http://www.3fatchicks.com/)

I do see Tad. Is that who you are going to?

Hey!

I've lost 14 pounds on my first week of Ideal Protein. I still want to lose 73 pounds. Long way to go!

I'm from Canada.

Good to hear from you!

Hi everyone! My name is Debbie, I am 43 and I live in NY. I lost my husband suddenly 7 months ago to a heart attack and I decided that I need to something to make myself healthy. I have been on plan for 7 weeks and have lost 36 pounds.
My goal is to lose a 100 pounds. I just started walking tonight. Exercise is an area I really need to focus on.
Love to hear about everyones success....gives me great motivation!

Hi

I am Anne, 27 , from Quebec. Its good to find team-mates for the run :)

I started IP about 8 weeks ago. Doing fine , i know now what I like , and what product I hate (leek soup !!). I decided to do IP because of the reputation and I am really happy with the results.
I love going out so I must admit I strugglw with the NO alcool clause. But I think its worth it.
I play volley ball 3 times a weeks and since a fiew weeks i jump more and am faster so that is all good for me :)
My first language is french so I am sorry for the poor english and the mistakes.
I have no kids ,I live alone with Turtle (my cat), my boyfriend is Australian and I just cant wait to see him this x-mas !!

Way to go everyone. the quick rewards on this diet keep me motivated. I don't have dramatic loss as some of you, but am pleased with 6 pounds in my first two weeks.
Valkrie, I work part-time for a local hospital doing alot of community based things, corporate health screenings, health related talks, child passenger saftey, and I teach CPR and Newborn care classes. Lots of different things. Keeps me busy though.
Love reading all the posts, They are also motivating.
I also hate the Leek soup, and the chicken soup.
Thanks all. Lynn

I know how you feel. I'm in that same rut right now. My problem is that I'll have a phase where I crave everything and then I will not want to eat anything (like right now). I just wish I could get on an even keel.
You and me both! I was this way before IP though...I guess being allergic to almost everything out there kinda makes you just want something else to sustain you!

Maybe some new spices or a new dressing??


TT
Seattle, WA
my blog (http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/)

Hey!

I've lost 14 pounds on my first week of Ideal Protein. I still want to lose 73 pounds. Long way to go!

I'm from Canada.

Good to hear from you!
Awesome! Just remember that it is mostly water the first week. I would say 3-4 lbs a week is normal after first week and from what I am being told, so just don't be disappointed when it isn't that much week 2. My 2nd week is this Friday. :-)

TT
Seattle, WA
my blog (http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/)

Hi everyone! My name is Debbie, I am 43 and I live in NY. I lost my husband suddenly 7 months ago to a heart attack and I decided that I need to something to make myself healthy. I have been on plan for 7 weeks and have lost 36 pounds.
My goal is to lose a 100 pounds. I just started walking tonight. Exercise is an area I really need to focus on.
Love to hear about everyones success....gives me great motivation!
Awesome Job! I am sorry to hear of your sudden loss. Keep up the good work, focus on the good and remember it is about you and being healthy.

TT
Seattle, WA
my blog (http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/)

Abdoula- congratulations on the big loss. That's fantastic!!!

DebS-I'm very sorry for your loss. You sound like you have done really well on the IP plan. I just started exercising a few weeks ago. It's much easier when you don't have as much weight to carry around!

Annmawy-Welcome to our group. I have to agree that the leek soup is NOT great!

In my community it is the local spa who is carrying the IP products. They are not doctors or health practioners. They told me that i can have unlimited broth on the IP plan. Has anyone else heard that? because i find it easier for suppers to eat all the vegetables as a soup - just changes things up a bit... any other recipe ideas would be great!

Hey guys... sounds like everyone is rocking and rolling! I'm having a rough week.. seemed to have come to a standstill but I KNOW I need to ramp up my workouts. It's hard not to get frustrated though...
Hi to all of our new friends! It's so exciting to be able to watch everyone's victories!
I'm declaring my new goal is to exercise 5 days a week so you guys hold me to it!

I started on the 9th and I have lost 12 pounds!! My friend did it and she lost 115 pounds since last December!!

I am also having a hard time knowing what I can and can't have on this plan. I was given a sheet telling me what I can have for Phase I but I've heard you all mention some things that are not on my list. (Makes me wonder if the list was IP sanctioned or if my Rep just put it together.) Anyway, it seems there are still a lot of questions floating around in my head....

I hadn't heard that about the chicken broth but would like to know.

Didn't know we could use sugar-free syrups either.

Unlimited puddings? Does that mean when we get hungry we can have an extra packet?

Lastly, I see some of you have mentioned puffs and bars and such....I haven't even been made aware of those :( I only know soups, yogurt and puddings.

Well I had my weigh in today. I was down 1.5 lbs. Since it's TOM this week I guess that's probably OK.

Gink- the bars and puffs are available but they are restricted to one per day. They are higher in carbs.

I haven't heard about the broth. I've only heard that you can have unlimited lettuce. I know that there is some outdated info about the diet out there. When I first started I was told 1/2 tsp. salt and you went to phase 2 when you reached 80%. Now I've been told it's 1 tsp. salt and you go to phase 2 when you reach 90%. I wish they had a more consistent way of getting the new info out to everybody.

Does anyone use other meal replacements like the Atkins bars or shakes. They look similar are much cheaper. I know IP will say they have the "best" protien, but what is the real difference?

good work alwe its better to lose then not to lose .

I have the same questions as the way they give the program.
I have 3 proteins to take per day ( 2 meals and one snack ) i have illimited salade and most veggie ( except avocado-carrots snowpeas) and i have a '' normal'' meal to take each day ( 150-200g of meat ) and 2 cups of veggies.

I have almost over 30 kinds of Ideal Proteoin product at my Gym so I never have the same thins each day !

My personnal favorites are the chocolat drinks that I mix with my coffee , the Jello and the poudding and of course de Puffs.
I also like the spagetti and the omlettes that i throw all my veggies in !!

I hole the day when well for u all.
I just arrived from Volleyball and cooling down :angel:

Wow..I love reading this board each day. I love hearing about everyone's successes (and they are all successes). Ihad a bad day today. Again, I didn't cheat, but didn't get in all the veggies and water (GoddessTT - I made the tea then forgot it in the microwave).

I am really nervous because I am leaving in the a.m. to go with a friend of mine for the weekend. We will be staying at her son's house and I feel I cannot "tell" them what I can eat. I loaded a bag with IP, along with WF salad dressings, etc., but since we will be at a convention all day Saturday and Sunday, I am worried.

DebS, I am so sorry about your husband. Mine also died of a heart attack in Iraq 1-1/2 years ago. I feel like I have been "frozen" - let my weight and my health go this whole time...and am trying to get healthy again for my son and his family. I still feel kinda empty inside and it is hard for me to stay motivated with anything...but I am trying. Good for you for not waiting as long as me.....

Everyone have a great weekend......

Green cabbage beware........ I just weighed in on my 12 week and I am down 43 lbs!!!! Although my weight loss has been fantastic, I recently was told that I have been cheating by eating my green cabbage (1 head of cabbage a wk about.) Make sure you are only eating RED Cabbage. This is my first week off of cabbage and my weight drop was substantially higher! Anyway, glad to see that people are finally finding out about this program.... when I first started I couldn't find anyone that has done it online.

LynnNowell - If you wanted to try for a week go for it...but my guess is you will gain weight.

For everyone out there that maybe didn't get literature etc...

From the Ideal Protein literature I have. Please note I do not sell this, I just researched it and made sure I understood what I was taking on before doing it, just like if I was to have surgery. I get nothing from trying to educate or help others. :-)

"The Ideal Protein Weight Loss Method is a quick and healthy protocol with proven, long-lasting results. Our gourmet protein food contain highly assimilable, high-biological value protein isolates combined with essential amino acids and are completmented with supplements and mineral salts.

Lose 3 to 7 lbs. per week
Primarily Promotes Fat Loss
Helps to Maintain Muscle Mass
Tones and Revitalizes skin
Supports Cellulite reduction
Promotes Vitality and Energy
Naturally Suppresses Appetite
Re-establishes Pancreatic Function (Insulin)How it works...

Weight loss
The body has 3 sources of energy, carbs, proteins and lipids and burns carbs first for energy. Once the body has depleted its carb reserves, it will simultaneously draw on its protein and fat reserves for energy. The intake of our high-biological value protein isolates durin the Ideal Protein Weight loss method will help maintain lean muscle mass and force the body to turn to its fat reserves for energy. Also available, The Alternative Protocol, our modified protocol for diabetics and adolescents.

More than weight loss

Supports Celulite Reduction: Ideal Protein's targeted approach and detoxifying effect shrink fat cells, thereby eliminating most cellulite.
Skin Revitalization: Our protein packets contain high-biological value protein which revitalizes and softens the skin by providing it with nurtients it needs.
Improved Convalescence: Protein plays a major role in the treatment of illness, as the body is primarily composed of protein. Protein provides vitality and stregthens the immune system.
Stabilization of blood sugar levels and other obesity related conditions."--
I was told it was like this...

Checking = carbs
Savings = fat
401k/Ira = muscle

We must deplete both checking and savings and protect the 401k at the same time. To do that we must acheive ketosis. By burning up the fat and carbs we have stored and saved and protecting the muscles (by getting protien - Surgeon general says 90grams is the minimum we need daily!!) we lose weight.

You can't have any sugar, cheat etc. No aspartme, only splenda or sucrolose. No gum. Why? Because of the chemicals in it.

Ideal Protein is a pharacutical grade protein isolate. The people making it are in white suits in a pharm lab. This is not the atkins diet stuff created with sugar and other chemicals created next to the granola bars by keebler (just giving an example most might recognize).

--

Random other stuff I saw people talking about...

1. You can't excercise in phase I unless your Dr. says you can. You could result in muscle loss. I know if you exercised before you can be limited now but this is all Dr. allowing it.

2. Restricted foods: some are 1 time per day... others are 2 times per week.

3. No aspartame (includes no crystal light), I asked about the Walden Farms syrups and other stuff they had and I was told no. The only thing we could have was the dressings. As for broth, I will ask on Friday. I guess if you made it yourself from stock you would be ok, but if a canned/boxed broth I would guess no because of all the ingredients.

I will post a list of all the foods and which are restricted. I did a lot of research in this before I started. If you want a list of the veggies (can have and not haves) let me know I will scan and send to those without.



TT
Seattle, WA
my blog (http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/)

Wow..I love reading this board each day. I love hearing about everyone's successes (and they are all successes). Ihad a bad day today. Again, I didn't cheat, but didn't get in all the veggies and water (GoddessTT - I made the tea then forgot it in the microwave).

I am really nervous because I am leaving in the a.m. to go with a friend of mine for the weekend. We will be staying at her son's house and I feel I cannot "tell" them what I can eat. I loaded a bag with IP, along with WF salad dressings, etc., but since we will be at a convention all day Saturday and Sunday, I am worried.

DebS, I am so sorry about your husband. Mine also died of a heart attack in Iraq 1-1/2 years ago. I feel like I have been "frozen" - let my weight and my health go this whole time...and am trying to get healthy again for my son and his family. I still feel kinda empty inside and it is hard for me to stay motivated with anything...but I am trying. Good for you for not waiting as long as me.....

Everyone have a great weekend......
You will be fine! Just pack some veggies in baggies for lunch, I am sure they will have salad for you to eat. Maybe have your breakfast before you go and make the pudding when you get there. I am finding people sooooooo receptive to my eating habits and it has only been two weeks. I just think it takes educating people, now granted some don't want to hear it so I just let them know I am only having healthy foods and bring what I like/need so they don't have to worry about me.

Good luck at the convention! I know you will do great! As for the tea...you really should drink more hot liquids. It will help movement...;-)

Phases
Phase 1: To be followed until 90% of your weight loss goal is achieved.

3 Ideal Protein packets per day
+ vegetables
+ unlimited lettuce
+additional protein of your choice

E.g.:

Breakfast
Ideal Protein crispy Cereal

Lunch
Ideal Protein Mushroom soup with vegetables and lettuce

Supper (Dinner)
Chicken breast with vegetables and lettuce

Night-time Snack
Ideal Protein Salt and Vinegar Ridges

Phase 2: To be followed until your weight loss goal is achieved. (Minimum 2 weeks)

2 Ideal Protein packets per day
+vegetables
+unlimited lettuce
+additional protein of your choice

Same as phase 1 = replace lunchtime Ideal Protein food with protein of your choice.

Phase 3: 14-day gradual reintroduction of healthy carbohydrates and fats in the morning only.

Congratulations! – You’ve achieved your weight loss goal!

Phase 4: Maintenance

Keeping it off for life!

--

Ideal Protein Foods
* = only 1 permitted per day
** = only permitted MAX 2 times per WEEK
Something also to note…if you have a lot of weight to lose…then you want to be drinking the Cranberry, Blueberry, Pomegranate drink and eating the raspberry jelly, they both have beef collagen in them needed to help with that.

Ready to go shakes
20 gr Protein: Peach and Mango Drink
18 gr Protein: Pineapple and Banana Drink, Chocolate Drink, Cappuccino, Wild berry Yogurt, Blueberry, Cranberry & Pomegranate Drink, Pina Colada (I saw on my list that there is Pink Lemonade...but I haven't seen it on IP list or seen the box, so I can’t say for sure but I am sure it is like the Salt and Vinegar Ridges, they don’t show up anywhere but I do have the box!)

Soups/Chili*/Spaghetti**
18 gr Protein: Chicken soup, Leek soup, Mushroom soup
12 gr Protein: Vegetable Chili*, Bolognese Spaghetti**

Pancakes*/Syrup
20 gr Protein: Chocolate Pancake & Muffin*
18 gr Protein: Orange Pancake*, Plain Crepe*
0 gr Protein: Maple Syrup

Oatmeal*/Cereal
18 gr Protein: Maple Oatmeal*, Plain Cereal

Soy Puffs*/Soy Nuts*/Salt Vinegar Ridges*/Bars*
15 gr Protein: Sour Cream & Onion Soy Puffs*, Chocolate Soy Puffs*, BBQ Soy Puffs*

11 gr Protein: Garlic & Onion Soy Nuts*, BBQ Soy Nuts*
10 gr Protein: Smoked Soy Nuts*

15 gr Protein: Salt and Vinegar Ridges*

15 gr Protein: Chocolate Chip Fudge Bar*, Peanut Butter Bar*, Caramel Crunch Bar*, Choco-Banana Bar*, Choco-Raspberry Bar*, Milk Chocolate Bar*, Coconut Almond Fudge Bar*, Caramel Nut Bar*, Lemon Poppy Seed Bar*, Caramel Crunch Bar*, Vanilla Peanut*

Puddings/Jelly
20 gr Protein: Chocolate Pudding, Lemon Pudding, Raspberry Jelly
19 gr Protein: Banana Pudding
18 gr Protein: Butterscotch Pudding, Vanilla Pudding

Ready-to-serve Puddings
14 gr Protein: Ready-to-serve Chocolate Pudding, Ready-to-serve Vanilla Pudding

Drink Boxes
15 gr Protein: Vanilla Drink Box, Chocolate Drink Box

--

Vitamins (*daily mandatory requirement*)
These are also from Ideal Protein, there is a specific amount of each taken:
*Multi-vitamin
*Cal-Mag
*Pot-Cal
Omega 3

TT
Seattle, WA
my blog (http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/)

Why do they recommend the beef collagen products for lost of weight to lose ?

I was also told that the 2 cups of vegetables ( both at lunch and supper)means you must have at least 2 cups, but that if you go over the 2 cups by a bit that this is OK...it would be so nice to actually know. And do you measure / weigh meat and veggies raw or once cooked? As for the broth, we had a holistic worker come in to our northern community and present the IP program - he did mention broth but there was so much info to process I could not remember in which capacity. But when i went to our local store who is featuring the IP products (and who have been on the plan for sometime now...) they have said that you can drink the broth like tea / coffee. I was happy to hear this as i really like broth ( i buy it in the box and sautee my veggies in it as well) and this would be a saving grace to me during "rough" patches. So i really need to know if this is allowed!

Annmawy - beef collagen is used to help with the loose skin, so for somene losing 100+ lbs they might worry of excess skin once they are done. The same is said of surgery, normally they would have surgery after the Gastric surgery but what Ideal Protein has done is isolated the beef collagen which will help with the extra skin. Now if you have had that extra skin for 40+ (everyone is different this is an example) it will help but might not be the only corrective method needed.

Sandrab - I was told 2 cups minimum, but that I could go over as they are not high in carbs (minimal) and do not have fat. I do measure/weigh everything! For meats it is the cooked stuff, veggies the raw.

Was the broth Ideal Protein broth? If not what are the ingredients? I could ask my dr. I am veg'n and I know the PA just went to the Ideal Protein seminar here in WA last week and was going to bring back some stuff for me and ask a bunch of questions.

TT
Seattle, WA
my blog (http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/)

I weighed in yesterday for my two week mark. I have offically lost 16#!
http://www.3fatchicks.net/img/bar083/fireworks01/lb/272/170/256/.png (http://www.3fatchicks.com/)

GREAT JOB KEEP IT UP

I do see Tad. Is that who you are going to?

Yes i am I've known Jessica for a long time.. and Tad is great.. I just saw Jessica yesterday. some of us here in the area are trying to get a grp together to meet maybe once a month what do you think.

Green cabbage beware........ I just weighed in on my 12 week and I am down 43 lbs!!!! Although my weight loss has been fantastic, I recently was told that I have been cheating by eating my green cabbage (1 head of cabbage a wk about.) Make sure you are only eating RED Cabbage. This is my first week off of cabbage and my weight drop was substantially higher! Anyway, glad to see that people are finally finding out about this program.... when I first started I couldn't find anyone that has done it online.

wow i was told i could have green cabbage!!!!! i need to check and make sure :dizzy:

Yes, just cutting out green cabbage last week, I dropped 5 lbs, when I have been only loosing about 2 or so a week while eating green cabbage. If you look at the list of the veggies it reads..." cabbage (red, bak choi, pak choi.) I guess that the green cabbage has more starch and sugars.

Green cabbage beware........ I just weighed in on my 12 week and I am down 43 lbs!!!! Although my weight loss has been fantastic, I recently was told that I have been cheating by eating my green cabbage (1 head of cabbage a wk about.) Make sure you are only eating RED Cabbage. This is my first week off of cabbage and my weight drop was substantially higher! Anyway, glad to see that people are finally finding out about this program.... when I first started I couldn't find anyone that has done it online.

That's interesting. My chiro told me that I could have green cabbage and I've been eating it the whole time. Hmmm. I'll have to check on that further. Thanks for the heads up.

Yes i am I've known Jessica for a long time.. and Tad is great.. I just saw Jessica yesterday. some of us here in the area are trying to get a grp together to meet maybe once a month what do you think.

That would be fun. We have a bunch over here that are doing the plan.

I just looked up the nutrition facts of cabbage on Nutrition Date.

1 c. raw green cabbage- 22 calories, 5 g. carb, 2 g. fiber, 3 g. sugar

1 c. raw red cabbage - 28 calories, 7 g. carb, 2 g. fiber, 3 g. sugar

1 c. raw Pak Choi - 9 cal., 2 g. carb, 1 g. fiber, 1 g. sugar

I can understand why Pak Choi would be a better choice, but I don't see how red cabbage would be better than green. They seem to have comparable calories, carbs, and sugar.

I'm really curious about the broth thing. If we can have broth than we could do a modified version of the Weight Watchers zero point soup. That stuff is soooo good!

Does anyone use other meal replacements like the Atkins bars or shakes. They look similar are much cheaper. I know IP will say they have the "best" protien, but what is the real difference?
If you deviate from the plan it will set you back. I dont know how much research you have done but this diet is about stabilizing pancreatic function. I have deviated with cream in my coffee and did not loose weight for 3 days. I started IP on sept. 1st and have lost 17 pounds in 24 days. There is a big difference in foods and you really need to know what is allowed and stick to it if you want results. I understand the physiology and there is nothing else out there like this. You can burn fat and build muscle mass with hard work outs. I have never felt better I still have 30 pounds to loose and it hasn't been that hard (after the first 3 days).

Hi!! I started IP on Tuesday 9/22 and I am starving to death. I keep waiting for it to go away but it hasn't. I am very excited about the program though, I think I have finally found the one thing that is going to work. I have been gaining weight since I was 20 and after I had kids it got worse. Monday I said enough is enough and here I am!! I am praying that I can stick to it, I am ready to be me again!!

I really don't like the cereal, but I eat it. I like everything else so far. I am trying not to get any of the restricted items so maybe I will lose a little faster.

I weigh in on Monday!! Keep your fingers crossed!!

Hi!! I started IP on Tuesday 9/22 and I am starving to death. I keep waiting for it to go away but it hasn't. I am very excited about the program though, I think I have finally found the one thing that is going to work. I have been gaining weight since I was 20 and after I had kids it got worse. Monday I said enough is enough and here I am!! I am praying that I can stick to it, I am ready to be me again!!

I really don't like the cereal, but I eat it. I like everything else so far. I am trying not to get any of the restricted items so maybe I will lose a little faster.

I weigh in on Monday!! Keep your fingers crossed!!

Hi - I also started the diet on Monday Sept 21st. seriously i was starving at first as well. and although it is only my 5th day, i am feeling better in that area. I do get hungry in the evenings ( my worst times!) but because i have gotten through those first 3 days without cheating, gives me the motivation to keep going. i found making a cup of raspberry herbal tea helped with that. I have to say that my worst complaint on this "plan" is having to get up 5 times throughout the nite due to high water intake. I get up at 5:30 am for work, and am not sure if it is the change in food intake or the sleep interruptions causing me to be so tired throughout the day. I also did not take the restricted packets for now. I will after 2 weeks though. Good luck, and for me things did get better!!

Hi!! I started IP on Tuesday 9/22 and I am starving to death. I keep waiting for it to go away but it hasn't. I am very excited about the program though, I think I have finally found the one thing that is going to work. I have been gaining weight since I was 20 and after I had kids it got worse. Monday I said enough is enough and here I am!! I am praying that I can stick to it, I am ready to be me again!!

I really don't like the cereal, but I eat it. I like everything else so far. I am trying not to get any of the restricted items so maybe I will lose a little faster.

I weigh in on Monday!! Keep your fingers crossed!!
You can do it! I was told by the Dr. that if I was feeling hungry have another packet. The hunger went away about day 4ish for me.

TT
Seattle, WA
my blog (http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/)

I went to weigh in and was a little dissappointed in myself. I lost 2.6lbs (total of 21.6 lbs in 2 weeks), and a total of 1.5 inches all together.

Things I found out... NO Quorn or fake meats for those vegn's out there. Either eat egg beaters, fish or have an extra packet (at dinner).

You can have splenda + lemon juice + water = lemonade (using it as my water intake).

You can NOT miss any meals, I missed two in one day and they consider that cheating. You must stick to the plan for every meal and have only foods on the list.

I am going off the quorn tonight and will have no restricted foods, with that being said my weight loss should be more dramatic next week as I will had NO sugar in me. The dextrose in the fake meat and the missing of meals set me back. :-(

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

TT
Seattle, WA
my blog (http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/)

Hi!! I started IP on Tuesday 9/22 and I am starving to death. I keep waiting for it to go away but it hasn't. I am very excited about the program though, I think I have finally found the one thing that is going to work. I have been gaining weight since I was 20 and after I had kids it got worse. Monday I said enough is enough and here I am!! I am praying that I can stick to it, I am ready to be me again!!

I really don't like the cereal, but I eat it. I like everything else so far. I am trying not to get any of the restricted items so maybe I will lose a little faster.

I weigh in on Monday!! Keep your fingers crossed!!

My first week I was starving! I definitely took advantage of being able to eat a fourth packet and unlimited lettuce. That is the only thing that got me through. After about my fourth or fifth day I started to feel better. Keep going...you'll do great!!!

Hi, my name is Greg and I live in Tampa Fl. I have struggled with weight for most of my life. My mother and my 2 oldest siblings are more than 100 over weight. I had a patient ask my about ideal protein (which I knew nothing of) so I told her I would research it. After doing so I was so impressed with it that I was sure it would work. I began on Aug. 31 at 207 lbs at 5 foot 8...I set a goal of 160 lbs (47 lbs), today is Sept. 25th and I weigthed in at 188.5 I have never felt better and I'm saving so much money on food and boos. Dont give up newbees this program can change your life if you commit to it and stopped making excuses for yourself. I understand the process and would be happy to answer any questions.

My name is Phyllis, live in the Houston area, and have tried everything out there, it seems. I'm so sick of seeing a stranger in the mirror, and want to find the me I was designed to be. I seem to have lost her the second half of my life.

I went to my consultation/sign-up this morning and am so excited. I have been reading this thread this week, ever since I called to make the appointment. I have 2 friends who have lost weight on the program, and have been impressed by what I've found in doing research. I am very encouraged by what I have read here on this thread, and look forward to making this journey with y'all.

I've been on the diet since June 11 and have lost 25 lbs. It's really hard to stick to this diet when you're on the road. My sister and I have been doing this together and talk lots. We're taking a vacation together next week so we've gone through all of the phases and are now on maintenance so we can eat whatever is available at the restaurants. We plan on going back to phase 1 when we get back.

The information that is available for phase four is pretty thin. I got some really good information from my counselor for phase three. I've continued to lose weight through all the phases. So far I've eaten pretty closely to phase three for phase four. Since I plan to restart when I get back from vacation I figured this was a pretty safe course of action.

I know two other people that have gone off the diet for a short period then restarted and both were very supportive of my doing it too. They both said getting started again was easy, actually easier than starting the first time because they didn't suffer the side effects as drastically the second time around.

The things I've learned along the way include: stick to eating what it tells you. The weeks I skipped meals were the weeks I didn't lose weight. Eat two cups of vegetables every lunch and supper - no more, no less. I used spinach with my lettuce to get some of my extra vegetables. Zuchinni shredded and drained (squeeze the extra moisture out) mixed with an egg, some salt and pepper fried in olive oil isn't too bad for a vegetable. Works for supper in phase one. I created my own dressing (against the advise of my counselor) because I didn't like any of the walden farms. I used walden farms mayo, a packet of dried ranch and a cup of fat free milk, shook it in a shaker. Not exactly allowed on the diet but don't think I could have eaten that much lettuce without it. Could be the reason I only lost two pounds a week too. You decide. Other than that I treated the diet like a prescription from my diet and it works!! I'm a lifer.

I agree with you ,
I was on the road 2 weeks ago . So i had breakfest-lunch and dinner at the restaurants ( youhou :( ) No need to tell u that event if I ask my meat with salad, no dressing ... well I had a +2 on the balance the next week ... ( ok , maybe i had sometimes dressing - and some not alowed veggies)

I didn't eat much IP proteine that week. So when i started again on sunday , I had the big headaches ....


Good thing I dont go on the orad often , at home i stick on the plan , i am alone . So everything is fine .

My 4 days away at the convention were very tough. I realized I sure was not prepared for it. I didn't have enough time to prepare veggies before..had no place to get veggies, couldn't always get the water, etc. I didn't cheat, but I guess, according to reading the above, I DID cheat cuz I couldn't get my veggies in at lunch (the salad was disgusting)...so I grabbed a bar and water. There will probably be no weight loss this week, but it sure was a learning experience. I am going away the end of October again, and you better believe I will be WAY more prepared!! According to my scale, I probably maintained. It was very hard because everyone else in the house was eating chips, ice cream, BANANAS, etc.....but get this....my friend said I was an "inspiration" to her (me??). She is diabetic and had to deviate from her diet due to the lack of food in convention center. Instead of deviating, I just didn't eat (doubt if that was the best choice, but it was the only choice for me!!). I will say it was hard when I saw the ice cream. In most other cases, I would have to leave the room, but I hung tough!! I WILL say most of my sweet cravings are gone, so it really wasn't THAT hard.

Since it was such a last minute trip, I had to go with what I had in refrigerator (alphalfa sprouts??) and what I bought at doc's last week. We did go out for dinner one night...and I was truly excited. I got a great salad (I HATE salads) with a small amount of steak on it. But...like I said...great learning experience as far as eating out.

My doc says things that are different, Goddess TT, that some of the things you read. I AM allowed to use other WF products, and I AM allowed to exercise during Phase I. Granted, I don't exercise long...but I am exercising. I FEEL like exercising (BIG for me!!!). She wants me to get in a mile a day also...(struggling with that). Doc knows I decided to do IP for my health, and losing weight was an extra bonus...so maybe that is why she has deviated from the plan....dunno...but I like it.

I think I am addicted to the new Dr. Oz show.....because I know we are doing some of the things he recommends. I also am enjoying Biggest Loser more this year because I am actually "dieting" along with the contestants....anybody else??

Hi all I am here to give support or as much advice as I can give the Ideal Protein diet is amazing, it brings me to tears seeing everyones success! I coach in wyoming - if someone needs ideas or recipes maybe I have a yummy one for you or you can share yours with me so I can pass it to my patients!!

Hi all I am here to give support or as much advice as I can give the Ideal Protein diet is amazing, it brings me to tears seeing everyones success! I coach in wyoming - if someone needs ideas or recipes maybe I have a yummy one for you or you can share yours with me so I can pass it to my patients!!

really cool !!
thanks ! :carrot:

Just shows how different people are! I find it so much easier to do this diet on the road than at home! Some of you know but I travel for my job, usually every other week. Just some things I do that make my life easier while travelling are:
1. make sure the hotel room I get has a refrigerator. If it doesn't come with one, I will rent one.
2. Bring my IP 'food' and WF dressings in the travel packets. I usually will only bring 1 restricted item for the week... if I don't have it, then I can't eat it, right?
3. Depending on how long I'll be somewhere, usually 4-5 nights, I'll go to the market and get cucumbers, spinach and rotisserie chicken. I bring my own stash of zip locks bags, a knife, a fork and 4 stackable bowls. I also haul my own sea salt, olive oil and Mrs. Dash.
4. If I go out to eat, I will go to a Mexican restaurant and order chicken fajitas, in oil and not butter.. .tell them to keep the side plate but do bring me some pico and extra salsa. My other option is Ruby Tuesday... great salad bar... have my own dressing... and will get the petite sirloin with no butter or sauce and steamed broccoli, again with no butter.
5. I always keep an extra packet in my purse and another one in my laptop case so no matter what, if I get hungry, there is no excuse to cheat.. I'll just eat an extra packet.
6. I always, always have sugar free ice breaker sours on me. When that sweet tooth hits, 1, 2 or 10 of these will knock it out :)

I go weigh in on Friday... will post the results then (if I like them :) )
Yall have a good week!

Hi all I am here to give support or as much advice as I can give the Ideal Protein diet is amazing, it brings me to tears seeing everyones success! I coach in wyoming - if someone needs ideas or recipes maybe I have a yummy one for you or you can share yours with me so I can pass it to my patients!!

she is my coach and she is great!!!!! and she knows what she is talking about.... she has help me alot and always been there for me.. love ys sunkissed lol

I went to weigh in and was a little dissappointed in myself. I lost 2.6lbs (total of 21.6 lbs in 2 weeks), and a total of 1.5 inches all together.

Things I found out... NO Quorn or fake meats for those vegn's out there. Either eat egg beaters, fish or have an extra packet (at dinner).

You can have splenda + lemon juice + water = lemonade (using it as my water intake).

You can NOT miss any meals, I missed two in one day and they consider that cheating. You must stick to the plan for every meal and have only foods on the list.

I am going off the quorn tonight and will have no restricted foods, with that being said my weight loss should be more dramatic next week as I will had NO sugar in me. The dextrose in the fake meat and the missing of meals set me back. :-(

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

TT
Seattle, WA
my blog (http://skinnygirlinafatchick.blogspot.com/)

I know that is one of my problems is missing meals, I missed my lunch today I forgot to pack it. so i' ll have to try and maybe make it up, i'm really bad on weekends missing meals or trying to get them all in, that has held me back also. but today I hit the 40lb mark, 40lbs since 7/11/09.

Hi all I am here to give support or as much advice as I can give the Ideal Protein diet is amazing, it brings me to tears seeing everyones success! I coach in wyoming - if someone needs ideas or recipes maybe I have a yummy one for you or you can share yours with me so I can pass it to my patients!!

Hi Sunkissed!!!

Great ideas, Valkyrie. I definitely will do that in October. If this trip hadn't been such a last minute thing, or if I had had a car, I know I would have done better. I weigh in tomorrow, so we will see. This will be the end of my 3rd week, so I was hoping some of the nausea, energy and other problems might be ending.

I am really having some problems with nausea. Could be the detox pills doc put me on.....(altho I was having it before)...or I wonder if it could be the supplements? I don't think it is the packets......any ideas? (Sunkissed??)

...and welcome, Sunkissed...wow...an expert to go to in our group!!

Good morning !!

I am having a chocolat drink mixted with coffee and reading u all !! ( I love this mixte)

Have all a great day ! dont forget the exercice, and Always continue to smile !! we are soing this for us and we are worth it !!

Good morning !!

I am having a chocolat drink mixted with coffee and reading u all !! ( I love this mixte)

Have all a great day ! dont forget the exercice, and Always continue to smile !! we are soing this for us and we are worth it !!

Hi - i think i will try that choc drink and coffee. I am wondering about something, is the choc premade drink the same as the packet choc drink? also does anyone know - are these premade drinks considered one of the 3 protein packets that we are supposed to have in a day? I am having difficulties with all of the package drinks, except the choc and vanilla. really dislike them alot. i wonder if i am affecting weight loss by only drinking the choc and vanilla? i also despise - to the point of not being able to consume my food - the WF salad dressings. So i am consistently using 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice and mrs dash for dressing. Am i allowed to sweeten this dressing with splenda? My problem is that i live in a northern community, and am limited in knowledgeable IP resources. We had an IP holistic worker come in and explain the process, but is not here to answer our questions...the people carrying the product are also on the diet and refer our questions, if and when the talk to the IP consultant....so yes, i am thankful for the knowledge and experiences on this site!!

Sandrab - I am not crazy about WF salad dressings either (altho I do use the honey dijon over veggies). Doc said I could make my own salad dressing using my mom's old recipe, so yes...I do sweeten with Splenda. Here is the recipe...(whether it is legal or not, I don't know).
1/4 c. olive oil
1/4 c. vinegar
1/4 c. water
1/8 c. or less - Splenda
1 t. sea salt
(I often beef it up from here....oregano, parsley, garlic, - whatever...)
The olive oil does solidify in the refrigerator (I used to use canola oil and real sugar)..so I either take it out an hour before dinner, or stick the bottle (open) in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to "un-solidify" it.

How "northern" are you? I live in northern Michigan...but am very lucky to have my doc just 20 minutes from me.

There is a lot of knowledge on this board. I have learned a lot from here, plus getting the inspiration!! Just nice to know we are all doing this together.

WEEK THREE OFFICIAL WEIGH IN! TOTAL WEIGHT LOST: 20 #
http://www.3fatchicks.net/img/bar071/flower05/lb/272/170/252/.png (http://www.3fatchicks.com/)

WTG Hellena! Great job!!!!!

WEEK THREE OFFICIAL WEIGH IN! TOTAL WEIGHT LOST: 20 #
http://www.3fatchicks.net/img/bar071/flower05/lb/272/170/252/.png (http://www.3fatchicks.com/)

Congratulations!!!!

Great ideas, Valkyrie. I definitely will do that in October. If this trip hadn't been such a last minute thing, or if I had had a car, I know I would have done better. I weigh in tomorrow, so we will see. This will be the end of my 3rd week, so I was hoping some of the nausea, energy and other problems might be ending.

I am really having some problems with nausea. Could be the detox pills doc put me on.....(altho I was having it before)...or I wonder if it could be the supplements? I don't think it is the packets......any ideas? (Sunkissed??)

...and welcome, Sunkissed...wow...an expert to go to in our group!!

I hope it helps a little. I wonder why you are staying nauseated though? I got nauseous once but realized I had taken my vitamins and hadn't eaten... and I know better!
I hope you feel better soon.. you're doing so well :)

Torchlaker,
Hi, I live in Canada, Northern Manitoba. THey held a seminar here about a month ago where an IP rep came in and expained this program. THey had pre selected a local business to carry their product. So when I went to my consultation, it was with the owner of this business. they are fairly knowledgeable, because also on the diet, but that is the extent of it. They also do not carry many of the products i have read about on this site. For instance the only WF products offered are Ranch, Balsamic, Italian salad dressings(not a go for me) BBQ sauce ( do like) peanut butter (yikes) and jam(pretty good). Not sure if they are going to increase their supply or not.

one thing i find i am really missing is chewing gum. Is there ANY gum out there that people know we are allowed to eat?

thanks for the reply on the salad dressing.....

Official weigh-in today....I DID lose 3#. It seems that is what I am averaging. So 11-1/2# in 3 weeks....! I will take it....I am in double-digits now!!! Doc wanted me to lose 30#...but I would like 40#.

SandraB...well, I guess you are certainly further NORTH than I am!!! I ordered some of the WF off netrition.com (Valkyrie's suggestion)...they are the least expensive. I am going to try to add some splenda to the tomato/basil dressing, and see if I like it any better. I just tried the Thousand Island...yuk! Don't know what shipping charges are to Canada from Netrition, tho. I like the BBQ sauce, too....I add a bit of soysauce and worchestershire sauce to it, and it tastes better than A-1.

We talked about the nausea today...they are having me back down from the 2 detox pills they gave me for my "issue" to one. I have to be more faithful with the water.....I personally think it is the supplements. I always seem to get nauseated on any kind of pills. Today is the best I have felt in a week.

Hellena....how exciting!! You have to be thrilled!!! I am thrilled for you!! (for everybody...really!....really!!)

Hi everyone!!

i weighed in last night and after 1 week i lost 7.2 pounds and 5.5 inches!!! i am so excited, for the first time in a long time, i feel like i have accomplished something and i see the end of this miserable existence in sight!! i cannot wait to be me again!!

i do have a few questions!! how do i update my weight and stuff?? how do i get those cute little things at the end of my posts??

Thanks,

CONGRATS-Hellena and torchlaker!!

great job!!!

Going to my initial consultation on Saturday. Any suggestions? Sounds like you all love it.

Unlinke you guys I am having a rough time with this :( I do really well during the day and then from about 4-7pm is my rough time. I get so hungry that my mind goes "I don't care what I eat - I'm just hungry."

I dunno, I hate to bring everyone down but I'm having a really hard time right now. I've cheated pretty much every night the last week. It's discouraging for obvious reasons but I'm also feeling guilty about the cost too - this is not a cheap program. The good news is I haven't gained but I clearly haven't lost either.

Hi there...I just finished my first week and lost 6 lbs. I'm really happy. It wasn't an easy week, but so worth it. I, too, am wondering if anybody knows of any gum that is allowed. Good luck to you all!

i recommend stride it's the least in carbs, and sugar out there (that I have found at least)

Unlinke you guys I am having a rough time with this :( I do really well during the day and then from about 4-7pm is my rough time. I get so hungry that my mind goes "I don't care what I eat - I'm just hungry."

I dunno, I hate to bring everyone down but I'm having a really hard time right now. I've cheated pretty much every night the last week. It's discouraging for obvious reasons but I'm also feeling guilty about the cost too - this is not a cheap program. The good news is I haven't gained but I clearly haven't lost either.


This is definately a no cheat program or else you definately won't lose fat you will just burn the carbs you ate- it takes 3 days to get your pancreas restarted we were trained if some1 can't follow it to a T they are not ready - you should definately save your money till you can do it all the way. If your ready jump on board and JUST DO IT you will be thrilled with the results I promise :)

she is my coach and she is great!!!!! and she knows what she is talking about.... she has help me alot and always been there for me.. love ys sunkissed lol

I'm excited to see you today - this girl needs an applaud (and new clothes hers are way too BIG for her now) Yipee:carrot:

Great ideas, Valkyrie. I definitely will do that in October. If this trip hadn't been such a last minute thing, or if I had had a car, I know I would have done better. I weigh in tomorrow, so we will see. This will be the end of my 3rd week, so I was hoping some of the nausea, energy and other problems might be ending.

I am really having some problems with nausea. Could be the detox pills doc put me on.....(altho I was having it before)...or I wonder if it could be the supplements? I don't think it is the packets......any ideas? (Sunkissed??)

...and welcome, Sunkissed...wow...an expert to go to in our group!!


All detox signs only last the first week - as long as you have not cheated that eliminates that, the next thing I would look for is the supplements definately make sure you are taking them with food.

Good morning !!

I am having a chocolat drink mixted with coffee and reading u all !! ( I love this mixte)

Have all a great day ! dont forget the exercice, and Always continue to smile !! we are soing this for us and we are worth it !!

yum yum .... hey I put the vanilla premix in a bowl in the freezer for 30min then stir throw it in for another 30min and stir then once frozen it tastes just like homemade ice cream- oohohhohh yeah baby thats what i call good stuff!!

Hi Sunkissed!!!

Hi there- this is great!

i recommend stride it's the least in carbs, and sugar out there (that I have found at least)
I was told no. Because of several things, the chemicals and such and the fact that it will pull you out of ketosis.

If you are going to try it make a note in a journal then when you weigh in if you lost less... try the next week without gum and see if there is a difference.

I journal everything. I to am dying with no gum but I rather lose the weight than stay the way I am.

Unlinke you guys I am having a rough time with this :( I do really well during the day and then from about 4-7pm is my rough time. I get so hungry that my mind goes "I don't care what I eat - I'm just hungry."

I dunno, I hate to bring everyone down but I'm having a really hard time right now. I've cheated pretty much every night the last week. It's discouraging for obvious reasons but I'm also feeling guilty about the cost too - this is not a cheap program. The good news is I haven't gained but I clearly haven't lost either.

Hi Gink. I usually get crazy hungry that same time of the day. Sometimes it helps to drink a big glass of water. When I get very specific cravings (salty, crunchy) it usually means I'm not getting enough salt. Another thing that helps is to move my evening snack to late afternoon. Just a few suggestions.

Gink: I still struggle with hunger a bit....my worst time is after 7pm. The last 2 nights I tried "distractions." I got up and marched in front of the t.v. set for awhile....I drank water and hot tea....I even put the heating pad on my stomach. I got thru it....tough, tho. But...then...I always snacked at night...so part of that must be emotional for me, too.

I think I remember something Bob Greene once said on an Oprah show...something like "when you feel those hunger pains, that was when the fat-burning was in progress." Don't know if it is true or not...but I like to think it is.

I had to really ready my mind before I did IP because I live alone...would never spend that much money on groceries, and am on a fixed budget. I researched it for a month before I went on it. I never ran across anything negative about IP (maybe they just delete those comments...dunno)...and really wanted to get my health in check, after a year and a half of grieving and letting myself go. I think sunkissed is right....the mind has to be in the right place. Good luck with any decision you make.

Sunkissed....I usually take my supplements (except for 2 Cal-Mags) right after breakfast....do you think I should take them before? I take the last 2 Cal-Mags before I go to bed (not much food in stomach then)...

Wanted to see if my ticker worked.

http://www.3fatchicks.net/img/tulip-bar/slider-but4/lb/188/140/174/.png (http://www.3fatchicks.com/)

Hi everyone!
I went for my first official weigh in last nite! Down 9.2lbs! I almost cried when i seen the results of that combined with the inches lost. I usually have to diet for 4-6wks to get those results, and by that time i am frustrated and jumping ship pretty much. Seeing these results only motivates me further not to cheat and to stick to the "plan". I realize i likely wont see this weight loss each time, and i am prepared for that.

The gum - our business here who carries the IP products is carrying a gum called "spry" and say that it is ok'd by the IP program to chew. I picked it up last nite but have yet to try it, but they assure me this particular gum is allowed.

Have a great day everyone!

According to my coach, I should be getting to the end of the roughest part. I already feel better today than yesterday. I have always struggled with low blood sugar, not a diagnosed hypoglycemic, but I've always had to make sure I got enough protein. I have learned that I can tolerate the "hungry" feeling, the growling stomach etc., as long as my blood sugar is stable. I'm at the point where I have to get the weight off, and if I fail at this, then I will never be successful at any diet. When I am tempted by what other people are eating, I just remember that those foods will not be forbidden forever. I will be able to have chicken & cheese enchiladas and garlic bread again. But I will have the discipline by that point to eat moderately. I've lived long enough, (45 years) to be able to realize that 9-10 months is a relatively short time. I was a thin child and teenager, and didn't become overweight until adulthood. But I am now at the point where I've been overweight for more than half of my life. Realizing this is helping me put this intense dieting period in perspective.
Also, as far as cost goes, I may be wrong, but I get the impression that fees are determined by the provider. My provider is a doctor's wife that is providing this service as a good option for her husband's patients. It is possibly the most economical program diet (where you go and pay someone to help you lose weight, as opposed to trying to follow a diet out of a book) that I've ever seen.

I don't know if this helps anyone, but I hope that it does.

Good Morning Everyone ~

Thanks for the suggestions - they really are appreciated. I decided last night that I am going to do this full-force with the light at the end of the tunnel being that, like HarmonyMom said, these foods will not be forbidden forever. Fortunately after my awful week I stayed steady - 6.5 lbs down - and did not gain anything back.

I think my food issues are a little different than most people's... I'm not a snacker and I don't really get cravings. If I never got hungry then I would be fine, if that makes any sense. My problem is that when I get hungry I get sooooooo hungry that I make poor food choices and then I overeat. I think that's why the afternoon "tough time" for me is so hard. It almost feels like my brain chemistry changes when I get hungry. I can go for almost a whole day following the plan to a "T" but when that hunger kicks in I am ravenous and all my willpower goes out the window. Once that hunger is gone like after dinner, I'm fine again. Like I said, I'm not a snacker or a habit or bored-eater.

Drinking water is one thing I've always been good about. I drink more than a gallon of water a day without even trying. Unfortunately, it does not fill me up like it does for some people - maybe because my body is already used to getting that much water.

I've also tried moving my 3rd protein packet "snack" to before dinner and it helps a little bit. I'm still figuring out which packets I like and which I don't. My favorite so far is the cappuccino drink with cinnamon. Yum :) I go back in for my weigh-in tomorrow so I plan to pick up some different things than I've already tried. Hopefully that will help keep me on the wagon.

My coach is a good friend of mine who I've known for years. She had always been the same size, a little heavy, and since we worked together I would see her go on a diet for a vacation or something and lose a tiny bit, then gain it back. About a year ago she left the company so I didn't see her quite as regularly. Then, about a month or so ago I got an email from her with her before and after photos and I was floored! She was down more than 70 lbs and wearing a size 6. That's what motivated me to start knowing she and I were a lot alike. She was so successful with the program that they asked her to be local coach.

Anyway, just wanted to share that success story with you since those are always motivating.

Thanks again for the suggestions, if you can think of any others please feel free to share!

ETA: My coach emailed me yesterday saying that the Spa where she works that does the IP program has a product called Jen FE Weight Management Shots (liquid bottled shots - not injections) that are supposed to help with the hunger. Anyone heard of/tried these? I might pick up a couple tomorrow and see if that helps with the afternoon hunger. If any of you have experience with these please let me know!

Official weigh-in today....I DID lose 3#. It seems that is what I am averaging. So 11-1/2# in 3 weeks....! I will take it....I am in double-digits now!!! Doc wanted me to lose 30#...but I would like 40#.

SandraB...well, I guess you are certainly further NORTH than I am!!! I ordered some of the WF off netrition.com (Valkyrie's suggestion)...they are the least expensive. I am going to try to add some splenda to the tomato/basil dressing, and see if I like it any better. I just tried the Thousand Island...yuk! Don't know what shipping charges are to Canada from Netrition, tho. I like the BBQ sauce, too....I add a bit of soysauce and worchestershire sauce to it, and it tastes better than A-1.

We talked about the nausea today...they are having me back down from the 2 detox pills they gave me for my "issue" to one. I have to be more faithful with the water.....I personally think it is the supplements. I always seem to get nauseated on any kind of pills. Today is the best I have felt in a week.

Congrats Torchlaker! Sounds like you are doing well. That bbq sauce was an excellent idea, i tried it last nite! And i will definitely be trying that salad dressing.

I am very new to this diet - just starting my second week. So today i had some extra time and read back in these posts. I just want to say sorry about your loss - and hats off to you for going for a goal to make yourself content.

My husband is a sargeant with the RCMP ( i noticed you were a police dispatcher) who was in a life altering, work related accident last winter. I took 5 months off work to be by his side and assist in his recovery. As my husband was not able to be very active as a result of his injuries, I added another ( dont even know how many) few pounds to my already struggling weight....it was a rough winter. And although this year my husband is still quite limited, we are doing alot better and have decided to get our lives back....So i am very happy to feel motivated about something again! and reading other peoples posts shows me what a small world we really are!

I started w/the HCG program in August. Lost 17 pounds in 40 days. Cheated some, so I am ok w/this. Then started the IP diet on Sept 11. So far w/one weigh in (dr out of office and other things came up) only 2.5 # lost, BUT, my scales say another 4#. SOOOOO....I feel pretty good, but am having a hard time eating the same things all the time. My dr. doesn't keep all the IP packets on hand, because she says that she likes the ones she has the best. But I need more variety, so am looking for direction. I did find some recipes and will begin w/those tomorrow, AND my DH is doing it w/me. He just finished the HCG injections today and has lost 32#:) yea for him....Now maybe we can work better together.

WEEK THREE OFFICIAL WEIGH IN! TOTAL WEIGHT LOST: 20 #
http://www.3fatchicks.net/img/bar071/flower05/lb/272/170/252/.png (http://www.3fatchicks.com/)

Great job keep it up!!!!!

yum yum .... hey I put the vanilla premix in a bowl in the freezer for 30min then stir throw it in for another 30min and stir then once frozen it tastes just like homemade ice cream- oohohhohh yeah baby thats what i call good stuff!!

tried this last night it was great my son and I got to eat a bowl of ice cream together, I also put WG chocolate syrup and (WF) marshmallow on it, it was heaven on earth.... next time i'm going to put a little banana extract in it..

tried this last night it was great my son and I got to eat a bowl of ice cream together, I also put WG chocolate syrup and (WF) marshmallow on it, it was heaven on earth.... next time i'm going to put a little banana extract in it..

I might have to give this a try tonight :)

:dancer:

I just got in from my weight in !! and i lost 5 pounds !! that makes a big -25 total !!

I am really happy ! and really motivated to continue . I had a -40 goal , thinking of going down an other -10 to make it -50 total ...

I will decide soon .

Thanks to you all and continue the great work of support !!!:grouphug:

Wow...this forum is really going to town, huh??? I remember being scared before I went on IP that I wouldn't find a support group. I think this is the only one out there, isn't it?

SandraB....thank you so much for your condolences. It has been a rough nearly 2 years (New Years Eve). The stress has been awful, because I am involved in a legal battle over Eddie's death. I started working on the "mental" in May, and started IP Sept.9. I know I let myself go because I figured, "who is going to see me and appreciate my efforts?" I guess I finally decided ME! (and you all....). I am so sorry about your husband's accident..it has to be devastating.

Mrsbudr...we started IP about the same time. I remember a website...I think it was idealtogo.com. I emailed the gentleman and he said that if you can get your dr. to email him to say it is ok for you to order from him, he can sell IP to you. Try contacting him and see if you can get more variety. He also carries WF products, but I still think netrition.com is less expensive.

I have never tried the Vanilla premix (is that the one in the little bottles??)...but that ice cream sundae sure sounds good. Right now, I cut up a bar in the tinest pieces...and make it last all night for my dessert. My favorite bar is the vanilla/peanut one.

I think the IP packets are quite expensive, and wish I could afford more variety. We are lucky that we can take 7 of any IP product and have it count as a box. Is that what everyone does? I didn't know that at the beginning...and bought whole boxes. I plan on trading in the soy chips (yuk) and the 3 peach/mango ones I have left since I decided I like the pineapple/banana one for breakfast. I water down nearly everything cuz they are too thick for me (i.e., oatmeal, soups, drinks). Does anyone else do that??

Gink....glad you are sticking with it. You have different obstacles that I don't have, and I commend you for going ahead.

...and congrats to everyone on their weight loss!! I get SO excited when I see someone's loss!

Welcome to all of the new people. I can't believe how many people we have on this thread. When I started it a few months ago no one had heard of IP. Now we have so many people doing so great.

Had my weigh in today. I was down 2 #. Found out today that the bars should only be eaten about twice a week. I had 4 last week. I don't usually have the bars but I got them last week so I will start watching them.

I'm going to have to try the ice cream recipe. I'm wondering what it would taste like if you added the crystal light packet (like maybe strawberry) and then froze it. That might be really good!!!

Morning,

Yes i find the packets expensive as well...And so far i am not taking the restricted items. I basically live off the yogurt, puddings, and soups. One positive is that i now only basically shop the "perimeter" of the grocery store and have cut down lots there. Also i am not (currently!) indulging in meals out, or alcoholic beverages which for one nite could easily equate to a 7-pack box of IP! SO i think it hurts to initially spend the money, but somehow i see it averaging out in the long run. It also makes me NOT WANT to cheat!!
I do find i need to add extra water to almost everything - except the jello. But i also add broth to enhance the flavor when it is soup. Mainly i add my veggies to my soup - i find i like it better that way. And for dinners i usually incorporate beansprouts, mushrooms, broccoli into some sort of stirfry with my meat and find that is sufficient for the time being. I am not being overly creative yet, as i am trying to keep this diet as uncomplicated as possible as i am still cooking for others in my house. Everyone is heating healthier! They just don't know it yet!

I do agree with you, SandraB. Had to laugh. Yesterday I went into this store I HATE...but they do have the best produce around. Shopped the produce and left. Spent more time in the waitline than I did in the store. I think I am averaging out too, because I am not buying junk - which is basically what I lived on the last 2 years.

I haven't tried the yogurt yet...will have to try it. My nurse says she pretends it is fruit. I tried my first stirfry yesterday...don't know why I didn't think of it before! I did throw boneless chicken thighs into a crockpot and then cut it all up. Worked out good (didn't feel like I was cooking).

What type broth are you using? I was never told I could have broth. I was told I couldn't have Crystal Light or anything with aspartane in it because aspartane slows down weight loss.

Alwe74...I remember reading your posts when I first started researching IP, and you were one of the reasons I chose IP. I am guessing we have at least 25 women on this forum now. This forum is like your "baby". Thanks.

I too, enjoy this forum...It is weird, but it really seems to help reading other peoples trials and tribulations. I think it is because there are so many people so quick to pass judgment on this ( i like to call it meal plan, not diet...) IP program, greatly in fact to the bizarre amount of "fad" diets out there. So I choose not to discuss the IP program in my work or social areas (odd exception of course) so it is great to have this. So if ALWE74 started this - thank you!

The broth - i mentioned in an earlier post that i was using broth, and seemed like that was unheard of. So i went back to my coach to verify as i did not want my week wasted by using it. I knew i had heard the holistic worker / IP rep talk of broth in the seminar i attended. It was information overload that evening so i could not remember exactly what he said. My coach has said that she specifically asked if we were allowed broth and he said yes. Like as anything else, in moderation. I buy the cartons - Campbells, Knorr - chicken, veggie or beef. I had about a cup to my soup and i like the soup better as a result. I also sautee many veggies and meat in broth - that is only a small amount. But after reading on here that noone else heard of it , i was worried,however i lost 9.2lbs in my first week. So i am going to continue to use it in moderation.

I am interested to hear from others if they are using splenda to sweeten dressings, tea etc. I have been told by my coach i can use this. Is everyone using splenda?

I too, enjoy this forum...It is weird, but it really seems to help reading other peoples trials and tribulations. I think it is because there are so many people so quick to pass judgment on this ( i like to call it meal plan, not diet...) IP program, greatly in fact to the bizarre amount of "fad" diets out there. So I choose not to discuss the IP program in my work or social areas (odd exception of course) so it is great to have this. So if ALWE74 started this - thank you!

The broth - i mentioned in an earlier post that i was using broth, and seemed like that was unheard of. So i went back to my coach to verify as i did not want my week wasted by using it. I knew i had heard the holistic worker / IP rep talk of broth in the seminar i attended. It was information overload that evening so i could not remember exactly what he said. My coach has said that she specifically asked if we were allowed broth and he said yes. Like as anything else, in moderation. I buy the cartons - Campbells, Knorr - chicken, veggie or beef. I had about a cup to my soup and i like the soup better as a result. I also sautee many veggies and meat in broth - that is only a small amount. But after reading on here that noone else heard of it , i was worried,however i lost 9.2lbs in my first week. So i am going to continue to use it in moderation.

I am interested to hear from others if they are using splenda to sweeten dressings, tea etc. I have been told by my coach i can use this. Is everyone using splenda?
I use splenda. In fact I make lemonade (lemon juice is considered a seasoning), water and splenda and drink it instead of straight up water these days.

Thank you for your blogs. I'm going to start next week, and it will be great to share and learn.

How many days have you been on the program? The first 3 days are the toughest. I had a box of choco banana bars that really helped me get through the first 2 days (they are phase 2 foods) but they kept me honest. After 3 days without cheeting you will loose that intense hunger and feel only slight hunger (something I have never felt befor going on IP). It takes 3 days without sugar or carbs for your liver to empty its reserves, then and only then will you be able to break down fat. NOTHING TASTES AS GOOD AS BEING THIN FEELS. I have strayed 2 times and both times I stopped loosing weight for 3 days. With that being said I have lost 21 pounds from sept. 1st to Oct. 1st. My waist was a tight 38 inches, now a comfortable 34 inches. My goal is 47 pounds and 21 of that is gone in a single month. I am a chiropractor that began selling this product last week due to my own success. I understand the physiology and it makes perfect sense. This can change your life ifyour committed.

Such great results everyone!

I just had my weigh-in and I am down a total of 8lbs in 2.5 weeks and that's with a bunch of cheating. (Just being honest here....) I'm happy with my success but I know it could have be a LOT better had I not cheated.

Got my WF order from netrition.com. Breifly tried the honey dijon...I think that's going to take some getting used to :( I also ordered the choc syrup (my rep says it's safe) so I'll try and get creative with that.

Today I picked up some more cappuccino drink - I actually *like* those, and some of the jelly/jell-o. My rep said she was keeping me really tight with the carbs (meaning no restricteds for Gink!) especially since I'm prone to cheating. I'm going to try really REALLY hard not to cheat for 3 days so I can make sure my pancreas is reset, then maybe (hopefully) my INTENSE afternoon hunger will be gone.

Today my rep did have a couple recipie suggestions for me. I'm sure some of this will be different from what guys have been told but thought I'd share anyway.

*she said the little Salad Spritzers are safe...that might be a good alternative for some.
*she also suggested starting with 1tsp (up to 1tbsp) of Original Frank's Red Hot Sauce and mixing it with 1tbsp of Smart Balance (the kind in the squeeze bottle) and using that as a dip for grilled chicken strips. Kinda like hot wings :) (Again, use at your own risk.)

I did want to share something kind of ironic with you guys: my son is 4.5 years old and has some health challenges, the biggest one being potentially severe food allergies to all dairy, eggs and peanuts. Peanuts is the one that scares me to DEATH. We carry an Epi-Pen everywhere and I have banned peanuts from the house - I won't even eat them when I'm at work (before IP). Truthfully, because of the potential for peanut residue from even handling or eating peanuts/peanut butter/snickers/trail mixes/other candy etc. I won't even TOUCH anything with peanuts. And I LOVE all that stuff. It's funny how I've had no problem completely doing away with anything peanut-related - despite my own love for it - simply because I want to keep my son healthy. I guess it's funny what we do for others and don't do for ourselves.

Alwe74 congrats good job keep it up....

gink: I agree we will do anything ofr our kids that is why i'm on diet. my kids told me they want me to be healthy so i'm around for a long time... and they are so suppportive..

i'm so happy i found this site i read everyday and always give it to other I find on IP... I say congrats to all of us job well done

A couple other things I wanted to share....

Last week I told my doctor that I was doing this program and she is familiar with it. She told me to start (or keep up) the exercise. She said she has talked to a few people who have done the diet and who have lost lots of weight but they also lost mostly lean muscle mass. I know that the packets are designed to keep that from happening, but on one hand it makes sense. Maybe the girls didn't follow the program to a "T" - who knows. But it makes sense to me that working out and building up existing lean muscle mass is a good thing - especially since muscle can burn more calories than fat. Plus, exercise in general is just good for us. Why then, would some people be told not to exercise? Is it because this program is so low cal?

Also (and maybe this only applies to me), my rep gave me a "letter" that a client of hers typed out. She had copies printed out and is handing them out to her other clients so I hope it's okay to re-type it here for the rest of you....

----

The Real Costs of Cheating on the Idal Protein Program

I was on the IP program about a year ago. From 12/1/06 to 3/01/07 I lost 50+ lbs. That was pretty amazing, but I could have done better.

How could I have done better? By not cheating, that's how. Oh, I didn't cheat big, but I still cheated. I didn't think it was a big deal, because I was still eating so much better than I did in the past. But I wasn't 100% compliant with the diet, so I was cheating. The thing is, I was only cheating myself.

So, is it ok to cheat? That depends. You have to answer that question for yourself. Before you can answer that question, you have to understand the real costs of cheating.

If you cheat one day on the diet, you might think to yourself, "I've lost a day on the diet, but that isn't so bad." Not true. First of all, you lost that day, but you also lost the momentum of the progress you made up to that point. If you get back on track immediately, then you will take at least one more day of compliance to get back where you were before you cheated. It's like climbing a hill on a bicycle. If you stop pedaling for a period of time, you're going to roll backward. You will have lost ground and it will take an equal period of time, or more, to gain back the ground you lost. So, one day of cheating will cost you at least two days. In that week, instead of 7 days of progress you have only 5. Think about it.

Next, if you cheat a little on the IP program you will still lose weight. That's a good thing, right? Well, yes and no. Yes because your objective is to lose weight, and that's good. But when you cheat, your pancreas has to work overtime again. Remember, weight loss is one of our goals, but equally important is to get our bodies functioning in a healthy state, and a healthy pancreas is essential to that.

From a psychological viewpoint, if you cheat and still make progress, you may think it is ok to cheat since there were no consequences. Next time it will be easier to cheat again, and perhaps you will cheat for two days instead of one. But there are consequences. You didn't make as much progress as you could have.

On the other side of the argument, if you absolutely have to have that one day of cheating as a "reward" or you can't stay on the IP program, well the obvious choice is to cheat.

So is it ok to cheat? You'll have to make the decision for youself. Think about it and weigh the consequences. Just remember: when you cheat, you're not cheating anyone but yourself."

----

Pretty profound when you think about this way.

That was a good read Gink! And makes perfect sense. I may post it on my fridge to keep me in perspective. LOL

Just jumped on for the first time...after 40 days on HCG with a loss of 34 lbs, my doctor is switching me over to Ideal Protein for the next slog towards my goal...so far so good on Day 2 but it is great to see all of this feedback since I can tell I will get pretty bored with the current food choices. So far I like the mushroom soup and the mango drink is good but a strange aftertaste. For those in Jackson, I am getting a big batch of different packets so I will let you know if I have any to let go. (I think we are going to the same practice). For salads I am using a tsp of olive oil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, sea salt, and spicy mustard....not sure if that is all okay but it works pretty well. Any other salad dressing suggestions would be welcome.
Thanks!

Alwe74...I remember reading your posts when I first started researching IP, and you were one of the reasons I chose IP. I am guessing we have at least 25 women on this forum now. This forum is like your "baby". Thanks.

Thanks!!! :wave:

Hi Everyone. I would have to agree that this diet is expensive. It's also not for wimps since it is very strict. However, if you follow it you are guaranteed to lose weight. I have been on MANY diets and this one has worked the best by far.

Goofy Girl-Good Luck!!!

Thanks MJV- I know what you mean about what we will do for our kids. I decided to do this so that I could keep up with my 2 yr old son. I'm hoping that he will never remember a mommy that was too tired to play with him.

Good job Gink! You're doing great! Glad you posted all of the info. I didn't know we could have the salad spritzers. I really like those.

Welcome Gros Ventre! There are a bunch of us here that are from Wyo.

SandraB: My nurse called me today (to see if I was drinking my water!! lol - I thought it was really sweet!!). Anyways, she said we are allowed broth..so there ya' go. I use splenda....was just told not to use aspartane!
I have been able to exchange my mango drink/soy chips for puddings at the doc's office. I do realize not everyone can do this, tho. (I have a really cool doctor!! She rocks!).
I have been adding a bit of Torani sugar-free syrups to my vanilla puddings (almond, coconut,etc). I believe my nurse is doing it also. Don't know if it is legal or not.
How cool. We have a doctor and a coach on here! Let's tap into their knowledge!!
Gink: What a great letter! I, too, think I will post it on the frig.
I have only told a few people about the diet (meal plan, treatment plan??)...and of course, have negative feedback from everyone. My neighbor showed the literature to her doctor, and her doc said "Absolutely not." They all say I will gain the weight back....I want to prove them wrong! I am averaging about 3.2# per week, which I guess is average. Hey, 11.5# can't ALL be water, can it?
Welcome to all the new gals.

Gink: I never heard that you shouldn't exercise....does it say that in the literature? I agree with you....isn't exercise supposed to be good for you? Anyways, doc wants me to walk a mile every day (ok...I try!!), along with the exercise I am already doing. Maybe they discourage exercising because the diet is so strict? I dunno. Any ideas out there?

Hey, how come my ticker doesn't come up and how the heck do I change it anyhow?? (see, I am anticipating a weight loss already and I don't weigh in until Tuesday!!)

Hi Everyone. I would have to agree that this diet is expensive. It's also not for wimps since it is very strict. However, if you follow it you are guaranteed to lose weight. I have been on MANY diets and this one has worked the best by far.

Goofy Girl-Good Luck!!!

Thanks MJV- I know what you mean about what we will do for our kids. I decided to do this so that I could keep up with my 2 yr old son. I'm hoping that he will never remember a mommy that was too tired to play with him.

Good job Gink! You're doing great! Glad you posted all of the info. I didn't know we could have the salad spritzers. I really like those.

Welcome Gros Ventre! There are a bunch of us here that are from Wyo.
Thanks Alwe, hats off to all of the IP pioneers like yourself that got this site going. The advice and inspiration from everyone is amazing, I didn't even know this program existed until six weeks ago so it was interesting reading the posts going back to the beginning.
Just a note, Stevia is the only sweetener my doc allows and she stresses exercise is very important, none of the great benefits of exercise have changed. If nothing else it is a great distraction from going to the fridge and wondering what you are doing there!

Glad you all liked the letter I posted. Wish I could take the credit for it but all I did was re-type it for all my IP friends here ;)

My coach told me we're not supposed to exercise on phase I but she said if you're going to do it then "go lightly." Also, if you go to idealprotein.com there is a link to a video from ABC Action News, take a look. If you pay attention you'll notice that the nutritionist they interview about the IP program says she "disagrees with the plan's notion that you should cut down on the exercise," so, there must be something to that as far as the IP program is concerned.

I guess as with a lot of other things mentioned here, each region may have heard something different with regards to exercise. In my mind it's a good thing no matter what.....now if I could only get motivated to do it.... :D

I know that I haven't been told not to exercise. I haven't gone overboard but as I have lost weight I have been able to do more and more. Right now I'm doing week 4 of the couch to 5 K program. I don't ever feel tired or that I can't finish the workout so I guess as long as I feel good I will keep doing it.

I thought of an idea that might help the newbies (and those of us that are not so creative...me!). Why doesn't everyone post a way they make their veggies and/or salad (or even something cool that you do with your protein packs...like freezing the vanilla premix...). It might help those of us that need some variety.
I have posted my salad dressing recipe - and steak sauce recipe....let's see...
Oatmeal:
I water mine down more...put it in microwave for 20 seconds--stir...another 20 seconds...good hot oatmeal.....I add less than a Tablespoon of WF maple syrup on top of my oatmeal...really drizzle it lightly. It just looks prettier.....
Asparagus
I grill it on my contact grill....and add some lemon juice and olive oil.
OK -- I'm out.....lol.

Okay. 1) Exercise: My consultant said I should exercise when I feel ready. If you have a lot of weight to lose, you might want to wait until you've lost a little to feel more able to.
2) Most of the packets that are sweetened, are sweetened with Splenda. If you go to the Ideal Protein site, you can look up the nutritional information. It's also a good idea to understand why some of them are restricted — # of carbs per packet. I for one, HATE Splenda. I think it leaves the nastiest aftertaste of any artificial sweetener I've ever tasted. That being said, I know that others feel differently. I don't see how Aspartame can limit your weight loss. You're getting approx. 850 calories on phase 1. Seriously. Some people have sensitivity to phenylalanine, and just like everything else out there, too much of it probably causes cancer. I say make your own choices. As for weight loss. It's going to go in spurts. That's the nature of it.
3) I believe, and I'll probably get in trouble for this but it's extremely logical, if you're going to cheat, just don't cheat with carbs. Eat more non-carb protein. Have a little cheese. Not a lot. 1 carb per oz is no big deal, but eating 3-4 or more will screw up your momentum.

4) My consultant said it is perfectly OK to eat your meat at lunch, and do the packet at dinner. As long as you're only doing the meat at one meal, it doesn't matter. This makes it much easier to get through the day, and makes dinner feel more like snacking, which works for me.

I don't want to be the voice of rebellion here. I just think people should make sure they are educated on the whole concept, and make educated choices for themselves. I can eat vegetables twice a day, but have a hard time choking down another salad at dinner.
I have spent much time over the past 10 years learning about diets and nutrition. This diet works on much the same concept of Atkins & South Beach. It simply extends phase 1 much longer. It gives you great protein supplements that are more assimilable than just about anything else available, which makes it easier to stick to. Basic concept: eat sufficient protein to keep you from getting hungry, and provide basic fuel; eat minimal carbs so your body will burn fat; eat just enough fat to lubricate your body, but not contribute to fat stores. You consume fewer calories, you lose weight. The difference is that by having the protein and minimal carbs, you get less hungry, enabling you to stick to it. That's how it works. All the rest is window dressing.

I'm not giving advice here. Just telling you what I think. I only like rules that make sense.
P.S. am I the only person who thinks that salad dressing should NOT be sweet?

Has anyone ever come up with, or heard of, a way to make vegetable bars? I mean, mixing them up, baking them till crisp, then cutting them into bars. I'm going to try experimenting with this, as it would make them more portable, and perhaps help me eat veggies I normally despise because of texture. Slimy, limp veggies are gross.

Vegetable bars would be interesting...Not sure how you could keep them together? eggs maybe?

I am nearing the end of my second week and am not struggling with the hunger nearly as much. Workdays seem a little easier than weekends though, but only because i am preoccupied more and not as focused on mealplanning. i try on the weekends to be a little more experimentive because i am so limited at work. today i am going to try sauteeing chicken breast with broccoli and cauliflower and pouring some of the chicken (IP) soup leftover from my lunch on top.
I was told to use coconut oil for sauteeing? are other people using this?
as for the salad dressings, i mentioned before i despise the WF dressings that i have tried. in fact i thru them away because they bothered me even sitting in my fridge. i don't know that i have to have my dressings sweetened, but i do think oil and vinegar mix tastes better with just a "tad" of splenda. i am using it so seldom in such small amounts that i am sure i could live without it.
what i am really missing on this diet is tomatoes!!! that is my favorite thing in salads, and for the second week in a row i am using my restricted veggie choices as tomatoes. i find a lettuce salad so bland without them. but that is just me.
In Canada, (am i the only canadian on this site) it is our Thanksgiving next weekend. This will be a trial! but right now i am feeling committed to my plans! both kids will be home from university and of course expecting the traditional homecooked TG dinner. and they will get it! i know turkey is on the plan, and i can look forward to that. i have never cared about desserts so no concerns there. and some of the veggies on this diet i have always liked, but now that they are the only thing i can eat, they do not seem as appealing. i think i will save my tomato for that day, i believe we can have turnip - it should be good mashed with a bit of broth, seasalt, and maybe that will seem like a nice supper to have with the family. my children feel bad for me if they feel they are enjoying a traditional meal without mom, and i dont want them to feel that way. OH YEAH, the biggest kicker i will miss out on is the wine we always have for these family occasions!! i cannot this early in the diet choose to set my whole week back over a glass of wine....
anyways, have a great weekend everyone and good luck with your plans... i know you all get to go through your thanksgiving next month....

Hi Harmonymom! I agree with you about the sweet dressing. I hate it!!! Vinegar and oil seem to be my best option. Let us know how the veggie bars go.

A couple of the ways I do veggies that are really good. I love garlic roasted asparagus. In a sheet pan I lay the asparagus spears, drizzle with a little olive oil and toss with 2-3 cloves of minced fresh garlic, sea salt, and fresh ground pepper. Bake at 400 for 10 min., toss and bake for 10 more min. Drizzle with lemon juice before eating.

Another veggie recipe is sauteed zucchini. I spray a non-stick pan with a little olive oil spray then just sautee zucchini slices with a little garlic herb mrs. dash, sea salt, and fresh ground pepper. These are good by themselves or mixed in with the soups.

HarmonyMom: I had to laugh because I thought that if I wait until I am ready to exercise, it ain't EVER gonna happen. Even thin, I HATED exercise...still do. Ahhh...but these joints are gettin' old..so alas...i must move. I also have fibromalygia (anyone else have this??), so there is the "devil and the angel" on my shoulder....Move? devil: "You gotta be kidding. You hurt too much! "Move? angel:" You will feel better if you move that ol' body." Guess it depends on the day...and who I am listening to!!

Wow...forgot about baked asparagus and sauteed zuchinni (which I love sour cream on...mmmmm). Thanks for spiking my interest....

Since I live alone, I do use those Steam bags by Ziploc a lot...even if I am gonna stirfry. Makes it go faster.

Yup, I like all my dressings sweet...not toooo sweet. Mom's fault. Mom always made her own dressings. I couldn't wait to leave home so I could eat bottled dressings!! In less than 3 months, I was calling Mom from college asking how to make her dressings! But...I am SO sick of salads. I get about 3 bites in at lunch. I did buy alphalfa sprouts..gonna pretend they are cheese (mouldy cheese). SandraB...I am with you. I eat tomatoes all year round on my salad. Doc said I could have up to 2 c. of restricted veggies a week...so tomatoes are my choice. I cut 2 of those little cherry tomatoes into the tiniest pieces I can...

Found out I like sea salt....who knew? I never liked salt that much before. Gave it up when I was pregnant, and never took it back. My hubby used to pour on the salt before he tasted anything i cooked....

Never was told about the coconut oil....Maybe Babygene or Sunkissed can help me out there. I have been sauteeing in olive oil, or nothing....

SandraB...I think there is a gal from Quebec on this forum, so I doubt if you are the only Canadian. I understand IP was in Canada before it ever came here. Hey, I live so far north, I am almost in Canada. I LOVE everywhere I have ever been in Canada and think the people are amazing! (eh??)

The fatigue finally seems to be over...probably cuz those detox pills doc gave me are working and "things" are moving. Gonna steam clean carpets today (wonder if THAT makes both the angel and devil happy??).

So -- what do you all say when someone tells you a)"You are losing too fast...you are going to gain it all back "(ok--I gained it back on Atkins, WW, and the Rice diet!!)......b)"It isn't healthy to discontinue grains, fruits and dairy.". (OK - i didn't eat grains and much fruit on Atkins...felt okay. Do miss those creamy creamcheese/whipped cream desserts I ate on Atkins, tho)....OR (my son)... c)"If you just gave up sweets, drank more water and exercised on your own, instead of paying a ton of money for this, you would have lost weight anyhow" (OK- I wasn't motivated....)....OR (big one)...d)"Your doctor is just making money off you" (OK--my logic here is that I KNOW my doctor. She IS my regular doctor...and I trust her! I know she researched this for months before she committed to it).....OK -- gotta admit here...I doubt if anyone will notice a 11.5# loss, but I have a red hat function to go to in 2 weeks (yup...I am old enough to be a redhatter and then some....)...and I know that - sooner or later - everyone is gonna be asking these questions. I wanna be prepared!!

I am procrastinating.....gotta go do those carpets.

Hello everyone

I am just starting the IP diet. My friend gave me the diet to go by and I am substituting (with her guidance) some of the packets for similar products (like the Jay Robb protein instead) as long as the nutrients are the same. She has lost 40+ lbs. in just over 5 weeks, and feels great.

So far I am on day 2 of the commando program. I am modifying it slightly, substituting the soup for protein shakes instead (some of the suppliments are too costly for my budget). I like veggies, so they won't be a problem.

The hardest thing for me is choking down the recommended vitamins. Can anyone recommend a multi that isn't the typical "hard" pills, like a soft-gel or a liquid? I am using the calcium-potassium supplements from IP, as I can't find anything comparable.

Torchlaker-don't you wish people would just keep their negative comments to themselves! What I've been telling people is that I know fruits and grains are healthy but they prevent me from losing weight. I will eventually be able to eat grains and fruits. I also tell them it's not healthy to be 90 lbs. overweight and I'm doing what I can to fix that.

I really like this diet because it is just temporary. I have tried to lose weight the "traditional" ways and I lose so slowly that I lose all my motivation. Since you lose weight so consistently with this plan you can stay motivated and then work on the bad habits (and develop good habits) that will help you to keep the weight off. Some of the bad habits I am working on are eating late at night and eating when I'm upset. Some of the good habits I've developed are eating veggies (I have figured out that I love them), exercising at least 3 times a week, and drinking lots of water.

I did Atkins, weight watchers, and South Beach diet (among many others) and I gained back every time. The diets didn't make me gain weight back, the fact that I didn't change my bad habits made me gain weight back. You will gain weight back after any diet if you don't eat right.

.8 is what I lost this week. I'm a little disappointed as I've been working my tail off on the treadmill but I know it has to slow down at some point.
I will persevere :)
Yall have a great weekend.. keep posting! It's the little victories that keep us going!

About the oils - here is what we were told were mandatory each day outside of the food we can eat

1-2 TSP extra virgin olive oil per day
1/2 TSP sea salt
3 different kinds of vitamins - sure we all know the name of those!~

But- what they said was that olive oil goes rancid when heated to cooking temperatures. They recommended if we are sauteeing, frying, etc to use cocunut oil. Our IP reps sell the cocunut oil right on the same shelf as their products. I had never used this oil before this program, but will say it sure tastes good!

THE negative comments- just make me want to do better. PROVE them wrong. i also am on this diet because i believe in it, researched it, and figure at this point in my life this is what will work for me. AND I FEEL GOOD! Those same people were probably talking about my weight gain too when it was happening! I do have support at home, because they actually see what i am eating, and know that i am not on a starvation diet. even comment once and a while that my meal looks pretty good...they see me more energetic, not grumpy like past diets! and they are happy for my efforts and successes. Enuf for me!

.8 is what I lost this week. I'm a little disappointed as I've been working my tail off on the treadmill but I know it has to slow down at some point.
I will persevere :)
Yall have a great weekend.. keep posting! It's the little victories that keep us going!

At least it's still a loss. How many more lbs. do you have to go?

Sandrab, as far as oils, I was told olive &/or grapeseed oil.
Alwe74, Thanks for the asparagus suggestion. Zucchini is one of the few veggies allowed that I love. I'm just afraid I'll get sick of them. :)

I find it very interesting to see the differences in the rules given by different consultants/coaches/doctors or whoever is administering the plan. I wonder if the training sent out by the Ideal Protein people is comprehensive, or if the people are influenced by their own backgrounds? It would be nice to hear from the coach or two that have posted on this issue.

added: Just read the rest of the posts. Olive oil is used all the time for cooking. Pretty sure it doesn't go rancid. That would be flaxseed oil. I have tried cooking with coconut oil, and although I LOVE coconut, it was just a little weird tasting for me.

scooter2367: You "may" find that the Jay Robb proteins don't keep you from getting hungry as well as the IP ones do. I've used his mixed with yogurt in the past, and have tried to just mix with water and use it alone. As a supplement it's great, but I got very hungry when I tried to do just the Jay Robb alone. Hope you have better luck.

Once again I will address the cost. It may be that the provider I found is less expensive than the rest of yours, but I think it is fairly reasonable. I've done Nutrisystem (back in 1999 when it was new and only in center) and Quick Weight Loss centers (thinkgthey're regional to Texas, or maybe the south). They were more expensive. Just remember that they're pretty much a meal. You'd probably pay a similar amount for food.

Hey guys!

I am officially down 10lbs today :carrot: I think it's just what I needed in the motivation department. I came home from work today ready to make a "safe" dinner and I was ready to stick to it. So far so good although I was very hungry all night last night and all day today.

Here are a couple of recipies that I used tonight:

First, I tried the asparagus on a cookie sheet, sprayed with Pam olive oil spray and sea salt, bake @ 350 for 20 mins.... Can't remember who's recipie that was but my whole family loved it!!!

Found this online for salad dressing:
1) Mince 1 or 2 cloves of fresh garlic as fine as you can get it, add a pinch of salt. (I used my Pampered Chef garlic press....garlic still could have been a tad finer but it still worked okay.)
2) Put garlic in a small bowl and add 2T red wine vinegar and wisk together. (Supposedly Maille brand is the best - I used what I had on hand - a generic.)
3) Add 1t dijon mustard and 1t salt - wisk together.
4) Slowly add 8T EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) and wisk together until creamy.

I doubled that recipie and put it in the Italian dressing cruet.....it was AWESOME and near as I could tell it was ZERO carbs!!!! Lots of flavor - especially if you like garlic :)

Lastly, I tried the "buffalo sauce" I posted upthread. Using Smart Balance in the tub (couldn't find the squeeze bottle at my grocer's) I used 3T and microwaved it for about 10 seconds so it was soft and mixable. Then I added Frank's Original Red Hot Sauce to taste. I don't like it too spicy but it still had a lot of flavor. Then I drizzled that over grilled chicken tenders. Yummy!!!! Once again, near as I can tell, ZERO carbs and there was plenty left over for another meal!!!! My kids even ate the buffalo sauce on their chicken nuggets - amazing.

My favorite IP product so far is the Cappuccino drink. I use cold water with like, one ice cube and then I add some ground cinnamon. So good - I could live off it! I was thinking I would try the cappuccino drink w/ cinnamon, maybe some instant coffee and ice in a blender - just like Starbucks - right???

I'm not a huge fan of the puddings. Yesterday my rep told me to add 12oz of water (instead of the 5 it recommends) and you end up with more of a "shake" than pudding. I tried that today and it was much better! I added a bit of the WF chocolate syrup to the choc pudding and it was delish!

My rep also suggested adding flavored extracts to the puddings/drinks so I bought some orange extract to add to the vanilla "shake" but I haven't tried it yet. A couple of combinations I thought of that sounded good were: choc pudding w/ mint extract. choc pudding w/ orange extract. I even saw root beer and almond extract at the store that could be added to any of the drinks. Coconut, raspberry....the list goes on and on.

My local IP rep only sells the packets by the box. That sucks if you end up with something you don't like :( I think selling the packets individually so you can get exactly what you want is a great idea!

That's all I can think of for now....love reading what everyone is doing and hearing about everyone's successes. Keep up the good work friends!

My favorite IP product so far is the Cappuccino drink. I use cold water with like, one ice cube and then I add some ground cinnamon. So good - I could live off it! I was thinking I would try the cappuccino drink w/ cinnamon, maybe some instant coffee and ice in a blender - just like Starbucks - right???

I've put the capuccino with water and 2-3 ice cubes into my magic bullet mixer. It makes a delicious iced coffee! Congrats on the weight loss! The dressing recipe sounds good, I'll probably try that tomorrow.

Hello Hello everyone! I'm new here and wanted to say congrats to everyone who is having success on the IP diet! It truly can change lives! Like Sunkissed, I too am an IP coach. I've been coaching since the beginning of 2009. The doc that I work for tried the program himself before deciding to make it available for patients. He lost 73 lbs in just a few months. His family and staff at the office, including myself, have all lost weight and kept it off. If there is anything I can help with I would be happy to, you can message me. I'm usually online only a couple times a week but will try to visit this board when I can.

It's important to realize that there is no 1 SET WAY that each clinic operates. There will be small differences from clinic to clinic and even from different coaches at the SAME clinic. I suggest you follow what YOUR coach tells you to do, but I will tell you what I would tell my IP patients. If something doesn't seem right, or you aren't getting the answers you need, your coach can make a call and figure things out for you. So ask them questions!

Also this program is fairly new to the US, and just started to explode with popularity. Have you ever noticed the french writing on the pina colada packets:) They are still in the proces of updating a lot of information for us. Phases 1-3 have recently been revised and we will be getting a lot more information for phase 4 this month.

To answer the question about exercise: It is NOT necessary to work out and not highly recommended in the first 3 weeks of the program. I'm not a physiology major, but from what I understand, it is because of this: Your body first burns carbs, then fat. On IP, you aren't getting many carbs, so you are burning fat WITHOUT working out. Your body is already in ketosis and using fat as fuel. If you push yourself too hard with working out, your body could break down muscle to use as fuel, which is bad! We want to burn the fat and keep the muscle mass. You would most likely need more calories and protein if you were going to work out hard. There is a different IP protocol for athletes/ bodybuilders.

Well, this is getting too long so I will go now! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!

Anyone know the easiest way to find a provider in the Seattle area?

Hey guys!

I am officially down 10lbs today :carrot: I think it's just what I needed in the motivation department. I came home from work today ready to make a "safe" dinner and I was ready to stick to it. So far so good although I was very hungry all night last night and all day today.

Here are a couple of recipies that I used tonight:

First, I tried the asparagus on a cookie sheet, sprayed with Pam olive oil spray and sea salt, bake @ 350 for 20 mins.... Can't remember who's recipie that was but my whole family loved it!!!

Found this online for salad dressing:
1) Mince 1 or 2 cloves of fresh garlic as fine as you can get it, add a pinch of salt. (I used my Pampered Chef garlic press....garlic still could have been a tad finer but it still worked okay.)
2) Put garlic in a small bowl and add 2T red wine vinegar and wisk together. (Supposedly Maille brand is the best - I used what I had on hand - a generic.)
3) Add 1t dijon mustard and 1t salt - wisk together.
4) Slowly add 8T EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) and wisk together until creamy.

I doubled that recipie and put it in the Italian dressing cruet.....it was AWESOME and near as I could tell it was ZERO carbs!!!! Lots of flavor - especially if you like garlic :)

Lastly, I tried the "buffalo sauce" I posted upthread. Using Smart Balance in the tub (couldn't find the squeeze bottle at my grocer's) I used 3T and microwaved it for about 10 seconds so it was soft and mixable. Then I added Frank's Original Red Hot Sauce to taste. I don't like it too spicy but it still had a lot of flavor. Then I drizzled that over grilled chicken tenders. Yummy!!!! Once again, near as I can tell, ZERO carbs and there was plenty left over for another meal!!!! My kids even ate the buffalo sauce on their chicken nuggets - amazing.

My favorite IP product so far is the Cappuccino drink. I use cold water with like, one ice cube and then I add some ground cinnamon. So good - I could live off it! I was thinking I would try the cappuccino drink w/ cinnamon, maybe some instant coffee and ice in a blender - just like Starbucks - right???

I'm not a huge fan of the puddings. Yesterday my rep told me to add 12oz of water (instead of the 5 it recommends) and you end up with more of a "shake" than pudding. I tried that today and it was much better! I added a bit of the WF chocolate syrup to the choc pudding and it was delish!

My rep also suggested adding flavored extracts to the puddings/drinks so I bought some orange extract to add to the vanilla "shake" but I haven't tried it yet. A couple of combinations I thought of that sounded good were: choc pudding w/ mint extract. choc pudding w/ orange extract. I even saw root beer and almond extract at the store that could be added to any of the drinks. Coconut, raspberry....the list goes on and on.

My local IP rep only sells the packets by the box. That sucks if you end up with something you don't like :( I think selling the packets individually so you can get exactly what you want is a great idea!

That's all I can think of for now....love reading what everyone is doing and hearing about everyone's successes. Keep up the good work friends!

GREAT job I knew you could do it! You just have to get through those first couple of tough days then your a pro!!!:hug:

I'm so proud to say that I work for a company that helps people loss weight a heallthy way. You all are awesome - I have now been referring all my patients to this website, keep up the inspiration and give my newbies some great ideas!!! THANK YOU ALL!!

good morning,

that was good information from Epona! Very similar to what the IP rep told us in our infosession. That is exactly what he told us about exercise for phase one. However he did say that if exercise was already a component of your lifestyle, you should keep it up, but that phase one, initially, is not the time to "get started" . i am just finishing week 2 only, and wanted to see how i felt first before taking "extra" on. and i have decided that next week i am going to start using my stationary bike, at least 3 times a week for 20 minutes per time. i know it is not much, but it is more than what i had been doing. once if i see that does not alter my energy or hunger levels, then i will decide on expanding in the exercise dept. I do think that this is a very individual diet, and we each have to do what works for us.

i just remembered an idea our coach gave us with the jello packets. simply freeze them in those popcicle holders for frozen treats. i like the jellos, think they are fairly similar to the real thing.

we live in a fairly small area, where several people are venturing into the IP program at the same time. I also wish that we could split the boxes up for more variety without having to spend too much each time. I am sure several people would like to do this, so i left my name with the retailer if someone else is interested in splitting boxes. i would like to get a mixed pack of soups without having to buy all 3 flavors!! we do live in a small town, so requests like that are viewed as normal....
have a good weekend everyone!

There are some AMAZING ideas on here that I might have to steal, hehehe:) It is great to have a place where we can all share tips and ideas! The buffalo sauce sounds great, and Sandrab, I'm going to have to try those jelly-cicles:)

The only tip I have for eating things that are off your list (or not suggested by your coach) is to write EVERYTHING down that goes in your mouth. Even gum! That way if you start having some bad weeks, your coach can "tweak" things a little and get you losing more again.

Fedup- Here is the phone number for a store locator. They have funny hours so I'm not sure if they are around on the weekends. 1-866-314-1447

Have a great weekend! Stay strong, weekends are sometimes hard, so keep yourselves busy!:)

Anyone know the easiest way to find a provider in the Seattle area?
Sent you a PM, I live in the area.

At least it's still a loss. How many more lbs. do you have to go?

17 lbs. And you're right... still a loss... I'm expecting a blow out next week though. I've been working harrrdddd!
It's so great to see all the new folks and get all of these new ideas!! Thanks to everyone for posting!!

In response to the comments about exercise on this program. The reason for not exercising for the first thirty days is due to the fact that exercise increases your hunger. Yes exercise is a good thing but if you have been struggling with food cravings or your body keeps asking for more food then you should hold off until you are in your second month on the program. Exercise will be more enjoyable after shedding your extra unwanted pounds. As your body changes so will your desire to exercise. Just follow the program until U reach your goal. Best wishes to all.

In response to the comments about exercise on this program. The reason for not exercising for the first thirty days is due to the fact that exercise increases your hunger. Yes exercise is a good thing but if you have been struggling with food cravings or your body keeps asking for more food then you should hold off until you are in your second month on the program. Exercise will be more enjoyable after shedding your extra unwanted pounds. As your body changes so will your desire to exercise. Just follow the program until U reach your goal. Best wishes to all.

That makes sense although I hadn't heard the 30 day part. Thanks for responding....I certainly don't want to make things any more difficult than they need to be right now!

Babygene, that certainly is true about getting hungrier when you work out, I've experienced that myself! I never read about that in our manual though, must have missed that part.

Babygene, that certainly is true about getting hungrier when you work out, I've experienced that myself! I never read about that in our manual though, must have missed that part.

I honestly didn't exercise at all until about 4 months into the program.. I just didn't feel up to it. I kind of wish I had done it sooner but can't go back now! This probably sounds insane but I had to get used to the idea of exercise... sure I know I needed to but I felt like I was doing enough by following the program. Now it's just not enough...
I find that when I have a hard workout, I do get hungry but I'm not craving crap. It's more of a mindset that I need to fuel my body and not just feed it.

17 lbs. And you're right... still a loss... I'm expecting a blow out next week though. I've been working harrrdddd!
It's so great to see all the new folks and get all of these new ideas!! Thanks to everyone for posting!!

Good Luck this week Valkyrie. You are such an inspiration to me. I've been doing this over 3 months now and sometimes I get really bored and want to quit. Then I think of you and all you have accomplished and it keeps me going. Thank You.

Valkyrie...I agree with alwe74....you are a big inspiration to me, too. In fact, I always keep track of when you are weighing in.....so, correct me if I am wrong....don't you usually weigh in every 2 weeks instead of l? Here, I thought I had to wait two weeks for another update.

I am glad you said that doing the program was hard enough...because that is where I am at. They are gonna be disappointed that I didn't get in a mile every day or even every other day. Geez, I didn't get a mile in all week. The diet -- working the diet -- is overwhelming enough for me as it is. I keep thinking it IS going to get easier (like WHEN will I remember how much liquid goes into each packet...instead of running to look it up everytime....or geez, I didn't have time to cut up veggies before I run out the door). It is just all-consuming for me right now.

On the bright side....I find myself looking at clothes again. I haven't had any interest in sewing/creating clothes since my husband died. No matter what I sewed, or bought.....I was still heavy. This weekend I pulled out my stash..started designing things in my head...pulled out patterns...bought some new patterns. My creative juices had seemed like they died when Eddie died...but now that I am losing the weight (another 9# and I will be lower than I have been in 15 years), I am thinking "Yeah, I should be able to wear that now or soon". I am kinda a "wild child" up here where everyone dresses quite conservatively. I like animal prints....glittery fabrics...rhinestones...lots of gold. I had quit dressing that way a) because of my size, and b)no one else dresses like that up here in the boonies. My point....losing even 11-1/2# makes me kinda excited for the future...something I NEVER thought I would say...

GoddessTT.....haven't heard from you in awhile. Just went to check your blog but didn't know how to post a comment. So sorry you haven't been feeling well. I was sick 2 days during the past month, and I couldn't get the food in either. Just try to get better....you know you are still losing.

Good Morning everyone!

Hope everyone had a good weekend. Heres to start of week 3 for me....I am finding things a bit easier, but am curious for my weighin tomorrow nite. I feel i have gone over the 2 cups of veggies at dinner time a few times this week, and am going to monitor how that works for me. I was told by my coach that they want us to have at least 2 cups of veggies, but that if you go over, that is ok. I hope that info is accurate. Either way i guess i will know at the weighin... Have a great week!