Ideal Protein Diet - Ideal Protein Diet - Monthly Chat - November 2009

Krispytn...i'm actually thinking I may need to make my goal MORE weight loss though... Simply put I didnt think I'd have the willpower to keep going past losing 100 lbs...but this has been so "easy" that I think I can keep going to a healthier weight...my original goal was to be at 175 lbs (which for my frame is about a size 12 or 14) but I am thinking I may go down to say 155 which for me will probably be a 10 ish (I hope?? anyone else about 5'7" with a large frame? can you tell me about what size you are at different weights...i carry most (ok ALL) of my weight in my stomach.) I will see how I feel once I get down that far...It's been so long I dont even know what I'll look like under 200 lbs!!

Hi, dogchef. I'm also 5'7" with a medium frame.

When I was in the 170s, my heaviest being 179 about a year ago, I was a very tight 12,14,some 16s. In my 150s, I am a 10-12. 140s, 8-10. 130s I remember being a 6 long, but the last time I was in the 130s was in the late 80's and I know they revised the ladies' size charts down a size in the late 90s(A size 10 now used to be a size 12 in the mid to late 90s and before.. This is the garment industry trying to trick us into thinking we are smaller than we actually are, so we'll buy more as Americans grow ever larger.

By all means, if you think you want to get to the 150s, go for it.

This brings another question: someone mentioned that their advisor told them to lose 5 lbs. more than their goal weight, because we would all gain 5 lbs. water weight with the reintroduction of carbs everyday. Anyone else told that?

This brings another question: someone mentioned that their advisor told them to lose 5 lbs. more than their goal weight, because we would all gain 5 lbs. water weight with the reintroduction of carbs everyday. Anyone else told that?


EChobaby-My IP said that onces carbs has been reintroduced I will gain a few LBs back & that it might be the route to go to get & stay with your goal weight!

This brings another question: someone mentioned that their advisor told them to lose 5 lbs. more than their goal weight, because we would all gain 5 lbs. water weight with the reintroduction of carbs everyday. Anyone else told that?


EChobaby-My IP said that onces carbs has been reintroduced I will gain a few LBs back & that it might be the route to go to get & stay with your goal weight!

I get that, because remember on other low carb plans if we didn't transition slowly enough, all of a sudden 5+ lbs. would appear in a week? I, most times said, well, forget it! And ended up really pigging out in disgust. Which starts the whole cycle again.

OK, ****. If I can get down to 130, I can do 125, which I weighed last at 20. I wasn't close to anorexic then, so if I look and feel OK by 130, I'll go for it. according to my friend who's a sports medicine Dr.(she did a nutrition plan for me 2 years ago for free. Which I promptly ignored.), by all the body measurements she took of me, My ideal weight is between 123-127. I swear if I weighed that I would walk around in a bikini at the store. In the snow. :D

I have found it interesting to see how tall everyone is and what their goal weight is. We are all different sized frames and different lifestyles.
I also was told to lose 5# more than my original goal so there would be some "play" room for the weight gain.
I have lost a steady 2.5-3#/week - and have to admit there have been weeks that I have been frustrated - "how come others are losing 5-10# and I'm ONLY losing 2.5#?" Does that sound familiar to anyone? I know I have to keep plugging along, the inches are falling off along with some of the weight. I even had to go buy some new jeans. I usually go to the used clothing stores - I don't like to spend too much money on clothing, especially since IP takes a lot of my extra cash.
Just tried the new BBQ "chips" - WOW, do they have a bite - I really liked them. I also got to try the new cookies and cream bar - really good also - just enough chocolate to get me over hte chocolate crave.
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!

I Know the feeling about the 2-3lb weight loss per week. it seems that i am not doing anything differently then i did in the beginning, but i am losing less weight on my weekly weighins. in the beginning (going into 10th week) 9.6lbs, 6.4lbs, couple 4.5 etc,,,,now i am averaging 3 lbs - either just under or just over. i wonder if we lose less as we have less to lose? i have lost just over half of my weight goal, and now wonder if the other half is going to come off!! and if it does how long? it is very frustrating because i dont allow myself any restricted or limited foods, have only had the one planned cheat. but just today my coach was looking at my food diary and pointed out that i do not eat much lettuce. she is right. salads were the first thing i tired of on this diet and really eat very little. i thought the lettuce was just a "filler" to use if needed. like a freebie. she explained that it actually helps in the digestion of what i am eating and directly affects weight loss. i am going to try and eat more and see if that helps. but as many people posted already, 3 lbs weight loss per week is stll a healthy amount of weight to lose. i did not have this success on past programs, so will try to be happy about my weekly 3 lb loss!! and am going to start some exercising as just bought a gym membership as well. been an expensive journey, but def worth it!

http://www.3fatchicks.net/img/bar-day/button-blue/lb/227/160/191/.png (http://www.3fatchicks.com/)

Mirazon!! Way to go!! I am so proud of you! You have been consistent, and it is paying off! You started a week after me!! How long since you have seen the TWO's??

Thank you Torchlaker. You are always so encouraging! It was 2002 when I last saw 200's. I was doing WW at the time. Its taken me a long time to find my way back to try wt loss again. With IP I've been fortunate and not had to deal with the carb cravings that were my constant companion on past plans. I also never lost at this rate on other plans!

I hope you feel better and wish you the best with the colonoscopy. The prep is no fun but worth it if you get answers to your problem.

Mirazon, you have inspired me to only go off plan on Thanksgiving Day. No potluck, no Birthday celebrating with food. Thanks!

Thanks for the recipe. It looks delicious. I'm glad you made a decision about the 3 big events occuring this week. The potluck at work today was surprisingly easy to avoid. Everyone was very understanding when I told them that my planned day to splurge was Thursday.

Happy Birthday!! Please keep us posted on what you do to celebrate your special day.

This brings another question: someone mentioned that their advisor told them to lose 5 lbs. more than their goal weight, because we would all gain 5 lbs. water weight with the reintroduction of carbs everyday. Anyone else told that?

I heard the same thing as well. The re-introduction of complex carbohydrates causes water to go into the cells and you gain 3-5 lbs of water weight.

On the other topic, I think gravity takes its toll as we age. So if you get to the same weight you were at 17, things will have shifted!!:dizzy: I think the only time I was not overweight was birth so going down the scale will be a voyage of discovery regarding how I will carry my weight.

OK if the lettuce will help with the weigh loss I will eat it, but MAN I am SOOOO sick of salads twice a day. Or maybe it is I am sick of the WF dressing.

Does any one like any of the types of Ranch that WF puts out?
Meghan

I heard the same thing as well. The re-introduction of complex carbohydrates causes water to go into the cells and you gain 3-5 lbs of water weight.

On the other topic, I think gravity takes its toll as we age. So if you get to the same weight you were at 17, things will have shifted!!:dizzy: I think the only time I was not overweight was birth so going down the scale will be a voyage of discovery regarding how I will carry my weight.

Mirazon, trust me, if I start to look like Amy Winehouse(sp.?)pre-unneccesary boob job..... I'll stop at 140. And I am TRULY VAIN...so believe me.

From your writing, I think you're probably crazy beautiful. I think we'd all agree.....

What you said about potluck..I've already decided what I'll eat (on program). The hard thing will be that these guys party seriously, and alcohol is definitely on the menu. I have been alcohol-free since Oct. 10, in anticipation of the program, I just have to be strong tomorrow. I can hack it. Thanks again.

I LOVE THIS BLOG, you guys are all hilarious! 'THANKS' for posting!!

Thanks for the recipe. It looks delicious. I'm glad you made a decision about the 3 big events occuring this week. The potluck at work today was surprisingly easy to avoid. Everyone was very understanding when I told them that my planned day to splurge was Thursday.

Happy Birthday!! Please keep us posted on what you do to celebrate your special day.

Thank you. I will. Just having to be accountable is a stong incentive.

OK if the lettuce will help with the weigh loss I will eat it, but MAN I am SOOOO sick of salads twice a day. Or maybe it is I am sick of the WF dressing.

Does any one like any of the types of Ranch that WF puts out?
Meghan

Meghan, I can't stand the WF dressings, I don't know how people do it so I make my own. I have some good recipes posted in the recipe section. I want to say around page 8. I generallyl add more vinegar then what is called for because I like vinegar, but all three are good. Oh, it is a great way to get in your compulsary olive oil and sea salt!!
http://tickers.myfitnesspal.com/ticker/show/30/3151/303151.png (http://www.myfitnesspal.com/weight-loss-ticker)

i really dont like any of the WF dressings - any of the products really. but i do find the creamy bacon consumable if i add other things to it. i mix mustard, vinegar, pepper and my oil serving to about 2 tbsp creamy bacon and it is pretty good then..i bought the asian dressing for cooking, and marinade for bbq. the biggest purchase mistake i made was the bruschetta. never tasted anything as bad as that. i hope that taste disappears from my memory sometime soon. and as for the wf ketchup - just think that someone is probably overpaid to play mean jokes on people. i really had looked forward to that little treat....very past tense now. so my best results come from the dressings i make myself. is anyone using the IP brand maple syrup? that is by far my most popular sauce ingredient. really good mixed with soya , garlic for stir frys. actually enjoy it whereas some other foods, i just eat it because i know i have to.

Well, I loved all 3 chicken-garlic recipes. I THINK I will use the whole chicken recipe, but rub with olive oil...and stick as many cloves (40?) into that stupid chicken as I can stomach (OK -- always had a problem sticking my hand into a chickens butt!!)....the rest I will put under the chicken.

My nurse says that 3# is the average weight loss.....and that is about what I average...2.5#-3#. It probably is unrealistic to expect the large weight loss continually....I have always heard our bodies have to adjust. (Of course, I watch Biggest Loser...and see THEIR huge weight losses each week...but I am not committed enough to exercise like that!!). If anyone has lost more that 2.5#-3# continually on another program, I sure would love to hear about it! I have done them all! Atkins was the fastest for me, but I still didn't average that type of loss.

So I weigh in today, but not until late afternoon (I usually weigh in the mornings). My schedule is so hectic the next few weeks before I leave for Cleveland that I am going to talk to my nurse today....I can't figure out any time to weigh in.

OgDog - the recipes sound amazing. Was really interested in the salad dressing recipes. I DID buy some greek organic yogurt this week. It had zero fat and 12 g. of protein. Thought I would try it in deviled eggs or tuna salad.

So -- Ogdog -- what would I like a recipe for? Well, I couldn't find any puddings on Netrition. I am trying to think of something I could eat while I am visiting all the different people in Ohio. I thought of just getting lowfat readymade puddings (or tapioca - or rice pudding??). There is just so much substanance to the IP pudding that it fills me. I thought of making pudding but adding cream cheese to it (and maybe some whey protein powder) for that thicker feeling (I never come close to the 2T. alloted oil anyhow -- but I am worried about the dairy). I am sure open to anyone's suggestion. The least I have to cook while I am visiting, the better!

I surely don't mean for anyone to start manipulating their IP program. I only plan to do this for the 3 weeks I am gone....come back, finish up to where my goal is (whatever I decide) - and go thru the phases properly. I guess I am looking for a "stop-gap" for those 3 weeks. Don't know whether to go lowcarb, lowcalorie, low fat....any suggestions??

It is grey and depressing outside...wish I didn't have to go into town (45 minutes each way). I think I am having a lot harder time this year with Thanksgiving than the last 2 years. The first year, my hubby was in Iraq so I was with my son in Cleveland since we had just gotten Eddie on a plane. Last year was the first year without my husband - but I had just gotten back to Michigan after attending my MIL's funeral (who died 10 months after her son)..so I was just glad not to be traveling. I keep telling myself I will see my son in 3 weeks and Thanksgiving is just another day. Usually Eddie or I had to work on Thanksgiving (Eddie was a fireman - I was a police dispatcher)...so why should it matter? Oh well. I am venting. Time to put on my "big girl panties" and go buy some garlic cloves!

So -- Ogdog -- what would I like a recipe for? Well, I couldn't find any puddings on Netrition. I am trying to think of something I could eat while I am visiting all the different people in Ohio. I thought of just getting lowfat readymade puddings (or tapioca - or rice pudding??). There is just so much substanance to the IP pudding that it fills me. I thought of making pudding but adding cream cheese to it (and maybe some whey protein powder) for that thicker feeling (I never come close to the 2T. alloted oil anyhow -- but I am worried about the dairy). I am sure open to anyone's suggestion. The least I have to cook while I am visiting, the better!

High Protein Pudding

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2 cups water
1 cup milk protein isolate
1/2 cup polydextrose (order from netrition)
1/2 cup cream
1/3 cup cocoa
1 tablespoon coconut oil(optional)
1 tablespoon corn starch
1/4 teaspoon Xanthan gum (order from netrition)
sweeten with your favorite sweetner. I use a mixure of liquid splenda, erythritol, maltitol syrup.
Mix milk protein in blender with water. then add cocoa, polydextrose, cream,
cornstarch, xathan gum in blender and mix. Heat mixure at meduim heat until it thickens up and starts boiling. Then cool in fridge.

The carb count would be about 4 per serving and protein would be 12 per seving using 8 servings per batch.

So far this is the only one I found that follows Phase 1 of the diet. Remember that some dairy is introduced back into your diet during phase 2. To me if you are still following the diet a little dairy (and going into Phase 2) isn't that bad!! Let me see what I can find with a little FF/LF dairy in it for you for puddings.

So -- Ogdog -- what would I like a recipe for? Well, I couldn't find any puddings on Netrition. I am trying to think of something I could eat while I am visiting all the different people in Ohio. I thought of just getting lowfat readymade puddings (or tapioca - or rice pudding??). There is just so much substanance to the IP pudding that it fills me. I thought of making pudding but adding cream cheese to it (and maybe some whey protein powder) for that thicker feeling (I never come close to the 2T. alloted oil anyhow -- but I am worried about the dairy). I am sure open to anyone's suggestion. The least I have to cook while I am visiting, the better!

High Protein Pudding


2 cups water
1 cup milk protein isolate
1/2 cup polydextrose (order from netrition)
1/2 cup cream
1/3 cup cocoa
1 tablespoon coconut oil(optional)
1 tablespoon corn starch
1/4 teaspoon Xanthan gum (order from netrition)
sweeten with your favorite sweetner
Mix milk protein in blender with water. then add cocoa, polydextrose, cream,
cornstarch, xathan gum in blender and mix. Heat mixure at meduim heat until it thickens up and starts boiling. Then cool in fridge.

The carb count would be about 4 per serving and protein would be 12 per seving using 8 servings per batch.

So far this is the only one I found that follows Phase 1 of the diet. Remember that some dairy is introduced back into your diet during phase 2. To me if you are still following the diet a little dairy (and going into Phase 2) isn't that bad!! Let me see what I can find with a little FF/LF dairy in it for you for puddings.

Ingredients

1 - 1.4 oz box fat free, sugar free instant pudding mix
1 scoop Any Whey unflavored protein powder
2 cus nonfat milk

Directions
In bowl, first whisk together milk and protein powder. Next add Pudding mix and whisk. Pour into four bowls and chill.

Nutritional Info
Servings Per Recipe: 4
Amount Per Serving
Calories: 95.4
Total Fat: 0.2 g
Cholesterol: 2.5 mg
Sodium: 381.2 mg
Total Carbs: 14.2 g
Dietary Fiber: 0.2 g
Protein: 8.7 g
_________________________
Protein Pudding Shots

Try mixing your scoop of protein with 2 tbs fat free, sugar free pudding mix and 1 oz ice water. Allow mixture to thicken and eat it with a spoon. Adds 50 calories and 6 grams of carbohydrates.
_________________________
CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE PROTEIN PUDDING

INGREDIENTSCooking Time: 0

1 pkg. Sugar free Jello Pudding-Cheesecake flavor
2 1/4 c. skim milk
3 scoops GNC brand chocolate protein powder

DIRECTIONS
Put all ingredients in a blender and mix until smooth (a few moments)
_________________________

OK if the lettuce will help with the weigh loss I will eat it, but MAN I am SOOOO sick of salads twice a day. Or maybe it is I am sick of the WF dressing.

Does any one like any of the types of Ranch that WF puts out?
Meghan
I only like WF Thosand Island. And when I say like I mean tolerate. the others taste like the floor of a mechanics shop. They all have some industrial solvent type flavor that I can't get by. I have switched in the last 3 days and have been using 2 TBS of Wishbone romano and basil vinagrette on my salads. It has 2g carbs and 1 g suger per serving, so not really bad, but not zero. I have been steadily losing wieght at about 3/4 of a pound per day and am currently at 10 pounds gone in 9 days... If this also works for you then go for it.

[QUOTE=torchlaker;3025206]
I surely don't mean for anyone to start manipulating their IP program. I only plan to do this for the 3 weeks I am gone....come back, finish up to where my goal is (whatever I decide) - and go thru the phases properly. I guess I am looking for a "stop-gap" for those 3 weeks. Don't know whether to go lowcarb, lowcalorie, low fat....any suggestions??
QUOTE]

I would recommend doing lowest carb/highest protein that you can. If you keep your carbs low you may stay in ketosis and coming back to the diet will be much easier! I have had a few "cheats" where I eat some cheese, or add heavy cream to my coffee (stressful work right now and I love creamy coffee). I havent knocked out of ketosis once since I started and have lost every week. This is going to have higher calories than staying on IP but its easy to do when out and about, plus I have found that the two times I ate way more calories, but stayed low carb I had a week of 7 lb weight loss afterward. Its like calorie cycling. Its also simple...stay away from bread, sugar, rice, potatoes.
Almost anything else is fair game...just remember that if you purchase something pre made or in the case of dairy:
LOW FAT = HIGH SUGAR/CARBS! (this is almost always the case...check the lowfat puddings and such...they usually have more sugar than regular!! Always stick to "sugar free".

Did any of that make sense? I tend to ramble A LOT :p

Oh also I read someone is worried about alcohol... my coach said I was ok to have Whiskey...but I would think any low carb alcohol will be fine...just remember that you havent had any in a while and you are consuming less food than you used to (i assume...i know I am). I forgot those key facts last time I had an alcoholic celebration and after one drink I was very loopy (I dont drink much...so my friends thought it was hilarious).
Also keep in mind that what you mix it with needs to have no sugar as well. And have someone with you that will NOT allow you to drive through a taco bell at 2 AM and buy 8 tacos :)

I am looking at having some drinks tonight. I found dry wine has 3-4 grams per 5 ounce serving. Beer is around 3-5 for Light beer (but not all, check the labels), whiskey has none, but watch what you mix with.

dogchef- I think that is great advice while traveling and being away from home and on holidays, low carbs/hi protein is the way to go if you cant follow the plan exactly.
torchlaker- I think 3# a week is amazing, I too have been on just about everyother program and the most I lost was an average of about 1.5#. Thanks for the info on the organic greek yogurt I am gonna try to find some and make Tzatziki for a dip for raw veggies for a change.
Ogdog13- Thanks for the pudding recipes, I love pudding!!!
Not sure if its been posted before but for anyone in Canada and near a superstore they have blue menu ketchup which is 5 cal 0fat 1 carb and .2 protein for a Tbsp. made with sucralose but taste pretty good.
Have a great day!

My wife and I are on this plan. it seems great except for the expense. Hers and Mine come to 170 bucks a week plus our grocery bill which seems to be between 120 and 160 each week. we are going broke with this and bills to pay. I am going to continue with the diet sans IP packets, but replacing with protein such as low fat fish, chicken or pork.

I eat large salads and over 3 cups of veggies per day, so I think I can swing it. Plus I am not sure if I mentioned this, but I had Weght Loss Surgery 8 years ago, so I am sure that helps too.

Anyone have any input on success of not doing the IP packets, but still doing the diet?

My wife and I are on this plan. it seems great except for the expense. Hers and Mine come to 170 bucks a week plus our grocery bill which seems to be between 120 and 160 each week. we are going broke with this and bills to pay. I am going to continue with the diet sans IP packets, but replacing with protein such as low fat fish, chicken or pork.

I eat large salads and over 3 cups of veggies per day, so I think I can swing it. Plus I am not sure if I mentioned this, but I had Weght Loss Surgery 8 years ago, so I am sure that helps too.

Anyone have any input on success of not doing the IP packets, but still doing the diet?

I think the key to IP success has been high quality protein, low carb, and low calorie diet. What I would do (and what I plan to do in a couple weeks) is look at the nutrtion content on the packets and try to replicate it through normal food, especially amt of protein, carbs and calories. EAS makes good product and there are other websites. I've done the plan a little over a month and love it, but my wallet doesnt like it and I am going to give this a crack. I am holding on to several IP packets though for when I am on the go. I do find it a very convenient diet.

My wife and I are on this plan. it seems great except for the expense. Hers and Mine come to 170 bucks a week plus our grocery bill which seems to be between 120 and 160 each week. we are going broke with this and bills to pay. I am going to continue with the diet sans IP packets, but replacing with protein such as low fat fish, chicken or pork.

I eat large salads and over 3 cups of veggies per day, so I think I can swing it. Plus I am not sure if I mentioned this, but I had Weght Loss Surgery 8 years ago, so I am sure that helps too.

Anyone have any input on success of not doing the IP packets, but still doing the diet?

I haven't tried substituting but I do notice that the packets are all +/- 100 calories!! I haven't looked to guage the protein amounts vs the carb amounts, but I know protien high, carbs low. If you watch all that you are doing you will be close to what Phase 2 on the diet is.

sbinkerd1- I think you will see the best results with the packets and vitimin supplements, I dont know if you could re-create the nutritional content on your own with ease, because it is not only the high protein but the "type" of protein it is, was how it was explained to me. I am sure it can be done but I think it will take alot longer, but you gotta do what works for you, I know myself the longer something takes the more likely I am stray!!!

sbinkerd1- I think you will see the best results with the packets and vitimin supplements, I dont know if you could re-create the nutritional content on your own with ease, because it is not only the high protein but the "type" of protein it is, was how it was explained to me. I am sure it can be done but I think it will take alot longer, but you gotta do what works for you, I know myself the longer something takes the more likely I am stray!!!
Type of protein? it's not like they are using a designer protein they developed in a lab. Whey protein, soy protein, casien protein, or protein from meat, there are alot of different ones out there, and if I find I can't lose as much as when doing their powder maybe I will come back to it, but I also can't get over the scammy feeling I get from the people that run the local distributorship for this product... it seems that the shiny packaging is more or less what we are paying for.

I am not going to tell anyone not to use this product, heck my wife is still on it. I just can't justify spending the money on it for myself. I am happy people are seeing results on it, but for myself I am going to stick to the framework of the ketogenic plan they have laid out.

Hi All,
The diet works! But....you have to follow the guidelines. I'm a pound from my original goal. I had planned to up it, but I was was down 3 lbs this week. I've been on it since Sept. 21st and have had none of the restricted items, no alcohol (and I love wine and beer) and followed the plan to the T. I know it's hard sometimes, but, bottom line...IT WORKS! Be strong and believe me...it's worth it.

http://www.3fatchicks.net/img/bar098/slider-scale/lb/156/126/127/.png (http://www.3fatchicks.com/)

Way to go MontanaMom!!!!! Amazing results

Type of protein? it's not like they are using a designer protein they developed in a lab. Whey protein, soy protein, casien protein, or protein from meat, there are alot of different ones out there, and if I find I can't lose as much as when doing their powder maybe I will come back to it, but I also can't get over the scammy feeling I get from the people that run the local distributorship for this product... it seems that the shiny packaging is more or less what we are paying for.

I am not going to tell anyone not to use this product, heck my wife is still on it. I just can't justify spending the money on it for myself. I am happy people are seeing results on it, but for myself I am going to stick to the framework of the ketogenic plan they have laid out.

I agree that you should be able to do a low carb diet on your own. I would recommend the whey protein products such as EAS low carb protien powder mixed w/water for a shake. The issue is what Ogdog said, the packets are about 100 calories so you will have to "pretend" you are eating a packet and keep your Protein portion of breakfast and lunch to that 100 cals. Part of the reason this diet has so much success is the calorie in vs calorie out. IP is a LOW CALORIE diet.

Let us know how it goes...can't think of anyone who would'nt like to save money :D

Just wanted to drop in and wish everyone a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving!!

I did make my mini-goal of being under 300 by today. I was 298.5 this morning.

Have a Great Day!

ps: What's up with all these "server to busy at the moment" messages? I couldn't get to the board at all yesterday and had difficulty today.

sbinkerdl- Actually it is a SPECIAL protein developed in a lab. Here is what the Ideal Protein web site tells us,

Ideal Protein products contain a unique formulation of superior-quality ingredients. Enjoy an unparalleled variety of flavors and textures that incorporate five different sources of protein. Since product quality is always our top priority, our products are made in our ISO 9001 certified laboratories in accordance with Health Canada’s pharmaceutical and food standards. Because of the high content of the eight essential amino acids contained in the Ideal Protein products (i.e. high scores on the chemical index) our products provide proteins with an unprecedented high biological value.



Ideal Protein’s unmatched variety of instant, easy-to-prepare and ready-to-serve products are skilfully developed to ensure a perfect dietary and nutritional balance.

I don't think you should knock a product untill you know all of the info on it, why do you think it works so well, also it tastes way better than any other protein I have tasted. This forum is made to be a positive support for all of us and if you feel you are not getting the support you need from your coach you should look for a new coach. I understand the money part of it, but how quickly do you want to look and feel better about yourself. It is alot harder to do it the normal way, and I hope you can find a good support system to see you through to the end of your journey.

I've never seen the server busy messages before today. :-( But if I click on the reload on my browser, it seems OK the second time.

Just had a very motivating experience -- I went shopping for a new dress for a wedding that I'm going to in a few weeks. I tried on lots of dresses and a few tops and skirts too and am fitting in clothes anywhere from 2-4 sizes smaller than what I was wearing before!!! :carrot: Woo hoo!!!

Just thought I'd share :-)

Happy Thanksgiving to all of our American friends!!

Hi Everyone....I hope your Thanksgiving celebrations have gone well today, whether you chose to indulge or not! I've had a good day...I ate a little taste of everything and had a couple of glasses of wine. I feel incredibly stuffed, but actually glad I ate. I think I would have felt very left out if I hadn't tried everyone's delicious offerings. The best thing has been that all of my family that I haven't really seen alot since I started IP really noticed a difference....someone said they could see it in my face, some said I just looked smaller. Everyone was very encouraging. By my calculations, I've lost between 12-15 pounds. There is definitely a difference between my scale and my coach's scale. But whatever.....I'm losing and I'm happy! And it is starting to show.. :) :) I've been very thankful for all of you on this forum...what great encouragement and support. So glad I found you all!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! We had our first of three dinners today, and I cooked so it was easy. Turkey, mashed cauliflower (splurged on some butter and cream in it), a little gravy at 3 carbs, and I made a low carb pumpkin pie (basically using splenda, evap milk, and whip cream made with spenda. the crust is simply crushed pecans and a little butter/splenda patted down). It was really good! For dinner, I took a slice of the "pie" and blended it with an IP shake in the blender, YUM. I dont expect to drop much doing this but I wont gain either hopefully. We have two more dinners where I am not hosting, but I have made sure there will be low carb options. In between dinners, tomorrow, back on IP. I did run 2 miles today so hoping that helps too. Anyone else have a dinner today?

Type of protein? it's not like they are using a designer protein they developed in a lab. Whey protein, soy protein, casien protein, or protein from meat, there are alot of different ones out there, and if I find I can't lose as much as when doing their powder maybe I will come back to it, but I also can't get over the scammy feeling I get from the people that run the local distributorship for this product... it seems that the shiny packaging is more or less what we are paying for.

I am not going to tell anyone not to use this product, heck my wife is still on it. I just can't justify spending the money on it for myself. I am happy people are seeing results on it, but for myself I am going to stick to the framework of the ketogenic plan they have laid out.

hi there,

i think alot of people have wondered about the cost of this program from time to time...it is expensive, no matter how one chooses to look at. read back in the forum, and people will find this has been discussed alot. i have a friend who is choosing to go the same route you mentioned. it is not feasable for her to purchase the packets at this time. and for any of us on this diet we know it is not just the cost of the packets, but the vitamins, the WF products we use to dress up our packets or our veggies, the netrition products etc. and then yes, there is the regular groceries most of us still need to purchase for the other members in our home. my friend has taken the info she has learned from the seminars, dr trans website, and spoken to a holistic healthcare worker. she is able to buy vitamins - no name brand types, substituting packets for protien she mixes herself. and no matter what, at the end of the day she is eating better, feeling better than before she started. and she will lose wieght. so although a fan of the IP program, i do believe that there may be other ways to get these results. i have often wondered if i could do this plan using the info i have learned this far. i have just not been proactive enough to research. so good luck for those of you who need to try different methods, whether it be for vacations, holidays, or finances.

Well, I went "carb crazy" for Thanksgiving Day and tomorrow I will avoid the scale and get right back into IP again.

You all are my constant inspiration!

Especially Torchlaker. You are so consistent and real to me! Thank you for posting so regularly and helping to keep the rest of us on track.

And thanks to Ogdog for posting all those recipes.

Here is some more "personal info" about me:

I am a nurse that works part-time in a small hospital emergency room. It can get very busy there but we are well-staffed thanks to California safe-staffing laws (1 nurse to 4 patients.)

I have just moved in with my boyfriend of 3 years. We are both 56 years old so he is not such a "boy." LOL

We hosted Thanksgiving Dinner in our new place today. We had my daughter and her family over. I have one grandchild, an 11 y.o. boy and he helped me so much in the kitchen today.

I have lost 22 pounds on IP. I am 5 ft 7 and 3/4 inches and am wearing a loose size 14 jeans that I bought at the Thrift Store 2 days ago. I weighed 187 this morning.

My goal is 153. I have weighed as low as 145 as an adult. I was 135 in high school.

I too will wear a bikini in the snow if I ever weigh 135 again!

I am convinced that this is the best diet ever! I think the protein packages are engineered with the best quality and high levels of protein possible while maintaining a low fat/low carb balance.

Yes, it is expensive but it is not FOREVER! So if we stick with it and get to Phase II it will cost less! Then Phase III will cost even less.

Then maintenance will be for life. We will be eating healthier and a lot less than we are used to. But it will be worth it.

I can cross my legs all the way over for the first time in years. I am moving so much easier and climbing stairs without getting short of breath.

My 11 y.o. grandson noticed my weight loss today. (The rest of my family knows about my IP program but my grandson doesn't.) He said "Nana, you are looking skinnier." Yes, I gave him a big hug and kiss for that!

Good luck to all of you and keep posting!

Lili

Hi Echobaby,
I tried to respond to you last week but my post did not go through for some reason.

I am post-menopausal and also had a hysterectomy years ago so I have no clue when my hormones are affecting my weight.

But I love to blame Estrogen and/or her sister Progesterone whenever the scale goes up unexpectedly. LOL

I have been losing consistently on IP and find that if I don't drink all of my 64 ounces of water or more per day then I will retain water and not lose as much.

Also, some weeks I lose inches first and then the pounds follow shortly afterwards.

Lili

Lilita - great post!! I too went more carbs than intended and so am out of ketosis this am...but back in the saddle already and now off to work. I find it is easy to be 'good' on workdays. Congrats on the loss, that is awsome! :carrot:
Happy Friday to all:joker:

I've never seen the server busy messages before today. :-( But if I click on the reload on my browser, it seems OK the second time.

Just had a very motivating experience -- I went shopping for a new dress for a wedding that I'm going to in a few weeks. I tried on lots of dresses and a few tops and skirts too and am fitting in clothes anywhere from 2-4 sizes smaller than what I was wearing before!!! :carrot: Woo hoo!!!

Just thought I'd share :-)

Congratulations!! I am sure it felt good. Congratulations to all on your weight loss!! Keep up the good work and have a good weekend!!!

I am going to assume that everyone had as hard of a time as I did trying to get on the forum. I probably tried 6 times a day for the last 2 days....Decided that I must be "addicted" or something...because I was actually going thru "withdrawal" from the forum.

So - let's see -- my biggest news is that I reached the goal the doctor said I would reach Wednesday! When I joined 9/09/09, doc said I would lose 30# by the end of November (I remember thinking...yeah, right!!), I DID!!! I weighed in Wednesday evening, and I lost exactly 30# with IP! Granted, I am not at their goal yet (5# more) or mine....(15# more..but I think I will amend that. My face looks rather gaunt....Probably wouldn't be so bad if I wasn't so old!!!).

BUT -- I thought I would share some stats with you all. (Remember, I had lost 8# before I went on IP. While I researched IP....I gave up things I KNEW I would have to give up if I made the commitment to IP). Here goes:
4" off my bust!! 4-1/2" off my waist! 6" off my hips! 1-1/2" off my arms! 1-1/2" off thighs (I have always had "thunder thighs"). 6.5% of body fat, 5.3% off BMI -- I am 25.7 - was 31...25 and over is considered overweight!!). Needless to say, now you all know WHY I need to alter -- especially in the bust and hips! I HAD hoped that I wouldn't have to alter anything until I reached goal....but I kinda looked like a refugee or something! Of course, I would love to go buy new clothes...but can't afford it right now (YES -- this diet is very expensive). I say a little thank you to my mom daily for teaching me how to alter (altho I am SO slow at it). My mom couldn't sew or read a pattern...but she could alter anything!!

OK -- my feelings on the expense of IP!! I can totally emphasize with the cost of having TWO people on IP...since I can barely afford just me! BUT - for me -- I researched this a month before I made the financial commitment. I knew it would be tight....but I knew I wanted to be medically monitored with all my health issues....so I KNEW what I was getting into. Yes...I am sure one can lose weight doing the diet ketogenically (is that a word??) - I did while on Atkins years ago. I am sure many of us are going to try to do just that thru the holidays (thanks for all the input, by the way). I guess I believe this is a personal choice! Could I have lost 30# on another lowcarb diet? Probably. Would I have? I doubt it!!...but that is just me! Maybe I just need to be accountable - I don't know. All I KNOW for sure...is that it works! Am I scared to eat regular food again - you bet i am! I know after the holidays, I will go back strictly to the guidelines and Phases outlined with IP! Luckily, I don't feel "scammed" -( geez, I thought those pretty foil packages were to keep the product "fresh." ) Luckily -- my doctor WAS my doctor long before IP came along. I KNOW the research she put into it!! I am sure she didn't need another project! She is spread so thin now! I love the look of pride on her face when she sees me! (She has gone thru all the downs with me after my hubby's death). I love that my nurse (who is also a widow and helped me thru some pretty tough times) is as excited as I am when the scale drops!! There is no "price" I can put on that type of support! When I dropped 30points off my cholestrol -- it was hard to see who was more excited of the 3 of us! AGAIN - I know I am lucky because of my doctor and my support system! Sbinkerd1 - I hope you DO support your wife as she continues on her IP journey. I hope she supports YOU in whatever path you take! I don't think any of us should take it personally that your opinion differs from ours......but please do understand that this is a "support forum".

Enough said on that! SO -- OgDog -- I did try the "pudding" made with the sugarfree pudding a few weeks ago. I did add in Whey Protein...but I used soymilk. It didn't thicken! I thought pudding thickened no matter WHAT liquid you used? Maybe it was a bad box? Thank you so much for your research. So -- because the site was down and I hadn't written down the "40 garlic cloves with chicken" - I had to do a bunch of research myself yesterday. I ended up peeling all the *&^%$ cloves....and stuck them all in the chickens butt! The house smelled amazing. I did baste it with my standby butter/garlic baste (but didn't eat the skin). Guess what? It just tasted like plain old chicken! Next time, I will try the chicken pieces...if there is a next time. I also made grilled asparagus -- probably NOT a great choice..cuz it didn't have much taste. I did "splurge" on 2 things (and yes...my scale showed it this a.m.) -- I had tomato/mozzarella salad (but I did use my mom's recipe)....and I ate a LARGE low-carb candybar!!

Lilita -- that was a wonderful post! You are right...this is not forever!! I used to be 5'7" too -- lost 2" somewhere! (well, I am about 10 yrs older than you!!). How wonderfully wonderful that your grandson noticed! I give you credit for moving in with your "boy"friend (they are always boys!!). I always wonder if I will ever feel like dating again....it will be 2 years New Years Eve that I lost Eddie in Iraq. My BAD news came Wednesday night (now -- THERE I sure could have used a drink -- instead I walked around the house yelling at the top of my lungs and throwing things!). The trial for my husband's death was postponed for the 7th time!! It was supposed to be Jan.27th-- I had really thought all of this would be behind me before I took my first vacation by myself EVER in March. I need to move on ...and cannot until this is all over with! (and so no....I didn't take any wine...altho an Amaretto Sour sounded amazing! I had planned on a glass or two of wine yesterday....but then I ate that candybar!!).

Well, I sure didn't mean to write SO much....maybe I thought I would never get on the forum again with all the site problems, huh?? But ya know...I NEED to share this last thought with you! My life turned upside down and inside out when I lost my husband. There were days I didn't get out of bed...didn't eat....cried all day! I started taking "babysteps" a year after his death. First step -- I did acupuncture to try to help with my chronic headaches. I did it weekly until I went on IP -- (couldn't afford both). It didn't help the headaches much...but somehow, it helped balance me. My fibromalygia is better - for sure. The next step - Therapy. I fought this every step of the way. I was raised to "put on my big-girl panties" and deal with things. I did this when my SIL and my son kinda did an intervention. I never thought I could commit to it. My mental health is SO much better then it was in May when I started. BECAUSE I was able to commit to the therapy, I decided to take on my weight.....and I started IP. I knew my weight had to be affecting my health -- plus I KNEW I wasn't eating properly. I think I basically lived on carbs and sugar since Eddie died. I ALSO knew if I could handle the "strictness" of IP - I could probably commit to other things! So - IP has done more for me than just weight loss. It has helped my physical health...but also my mental health! I remember now -- that I always loved fashion! I feel I can wear things again that "draw attention" (I love beads, sequins -- lots of gold and glitter...what can I say?). My nurse gave me the most wonderful compliment Wednesday. She said I always had a great sense of style...even heavier. But she can really see it now! (and I am wearing my old clothes...but now I care if they fit!! -- I didn't before). She said my style was so "uniquely me."...and not everyone could carry it off! I came home on "cloud 9" (well until I opened the stupid mail and found out about the trial)...because I finally feel I am becoming ME again. I will never be the old me....I don't have my life partner anymore (we were married 37 years)...but I am slowly finding the new me. My son wrote me a beautiful note a few weeks ago....that he feels like he "has his mom back." He said we both dealt with my husband's death in different ways...but he had felt he had lost his mom AND his dad. (OK -- I am crying here....). So -- I am coming up to the 2nd year of Eddie's death...but this year, I know he would be proud of me. I have taken babysteps towards my physical health and my mental health. Yeah...he would "totally freak" at the cost of IP -- but yet, I know he would have encouraged me to go on it. Geez...I forgot my whole point here!! I guess my point is -- Do what you have to do to get where you need to go!!

Ooops....forgot to update my ticker!! (Geez, I was really wordy up there, wasn't I?) Well - I haven't seen a real human in 2 days now!!!

Hey...I just found out that it automatically updates the posts you already did when I changed it AFTER I wrote the post!! I NEED to lose two more pounds before I go off IP when I leave for Ohio!! I WANT to be 40# lighter when I see my family (and Eddie's family)! (oh yeah....I also went a much darker blonde and let my short hair grow out to nearly one length once I started IP -- see-- I wanted to shock them!!)

Back to work today and back on plan! I drank a large glass of water first thing this morning.

I couldn't resist weighing myself this morning even though I knew I would be up. Yep, I was 191 (up 4 pounds since 2 days ago.)

In the past, a gain like this would cause me to give up on my diet. But I have had such great results with IP that I am looking forward to getting right back on it.

The next few weeks between now and Christmas will be "easy."

Today, I will pack some turkey breast and celery for my dinner break (I work 12 hour shifts from noon to midnight) along with my beautiful little silver IP packets and I will take all the "carby"leftovers for my coworkers to eat.

Torchlaker: I loved your post. Let it all out, Girl! That's what this support forum is all about. And it's free! Yay!

Lilita

Torchlaker, your post made me cry, but thank you - I, as I am sure others can relate to you in many ways. I am a year younger than you and have been married for 37 years also. My husband says about the cost, 'just think how much you may be saving in future medical bills by losing the weight...Your health is important - Don't worry about it.'
Sincerely so sorry for your loss! :(
Congratulations to you for choosing to become strong for yourself despite the obstacles (or challenges). Thank you for being such an inspiration for all of us, and please continue to share on here even though you are at goal..... :)

Spatime- You are verylucky to be blessed with such and understanding hubby, and you know he is right!

Torchlaker-You are truly an inspiration. Keep up the awesome work...in every aspect of your life.

I am going to assume that everyone had as hard of a time as I did trying to get on the forum. I probably tried 6 times a day for the last 2 days....Decided that I must be "addicted" or something...because I was actually going thru "withdrawal" from the forum.

So - let's see -- my biggest news is that I reached the goal the doctor said I would reach Wednesday! When I joined 9/09/09, doc said I would lose 30# by the end of November (I remember thinking...yeah, right!!), I DID!!! I weighed in Wednesday evening, and I lost exactly 30# with IP! Granted, I am not at their goal yet (5# more) or mine....(15# more..but I think I will amend that. My face looks rather gaunt....Probably wouldn't be so bad if I wasn't so old!!!).

BUT -- I thought I would share some stats with you all. (Remember, I had lost 8# before I went on IP. While I researched IP....I gave up things I KNEW I would have to give up if I made the commitment to IP). Here goes:
4" off my bust!! 4-1/2" off my waist! 6" off my hips! 1-1/2" off my arms! 1-1/2" off thighs (I have always had "thunder thighs"). 6.5% of body fat, 5.3% off BMI -- I am 25.7 - was 31...25 and over is considered overweight!!). Needless to say, now you all know WHY I need to alter -- especially in the bust and hips! I HAD hoped that I wouldn't have to alter anything until I reached goal....but I kinda looked like a refugee or something! Of course, I would love to go buy new clothes...but can't afford it right now (YES -- this diet is very expensive). I say a little thank you to my mom daily for teaching me how to alter (altho I am SO slow at it). My mom couldn't sew or read a pattern...but she could alter anything!!

OK -- my feelings on the expense of IP!! I can totally emphasize with the cost of having TWO people on IP...since I can barely afford just me! BUT - for me -- I researched this a month before I made the financial commitment. I knew it would be tight....but I knew I wanted to be medically monitored with all my health issues....so I KNEW what I was getting into. Yes...I am sure one can lose weight doing the diet ketogenically (is that a word??) - I did while on Atkins years ago. I am sure many of us are going to try to do just that thru the holidays (thanks for all the input, by the way). I guess I believe this is a personal choice! Could I have lost 30# on another lowcarb diet? Probably. Would I have? I doubt it!!...but that is just me! Maybe I just need to be accountable - I don't know. All I KNOW for sure...is that it works! Am I scared to eat regular food again - you bet i am! I know after the holidays, I will go back strictly to the guidelines and Phases outlined with IP! Luckily, I don't feel "scammed" -( geez, I thought those pretty foil packages were to keep the product "fresh." ) Luckily -- my doctor WAS my doctor long before IP came along. I KNOW the research she put into it!! I am sure she didn't need another project! She is spread so thin now! I love the look of pride on her face when she sees me! (She has gone thru all the downs with me after my hubby's death). I love that my nurse (who is also a widow and helped me thru some pretty tough times) is as excited as I am when the scale drops!! There is no "price" I can put on that type of support! When I dropped 30points off my cholestrol -- it was hard to see who was more excited of the 3 of us! AGAIN - I know I am lucky because of my doctor and my support system! Sbinkerd1 - I hope you DO support your wife as she continues on her IP journey. I hope she supports YOU in whatever path you take! I don't think any of us should take it personally that your opinion differs from ours......but please do understand that this is a "support forum".

Enough said on that! SO -- OgDog -- I did try the "pudding" made with the sugarfree pudding a few weeks ago. I did add in Whey Protein...but I used soymilk. It didn't thicken! I thought pudding thickened no matter WHAT liquid you used? Maybe it was a bad box? Thank you so much for your research. So -- because the site was down and I hadn't written down the "40 garlic cloves with chicken" - I had to do a bunch of research myself yesterday. I ended up peeling all the *&^%$ cloves....and stuck them all in the chickens butt! The house smelled amazing. I did baste it with my standby butter/garlic baste (but didn't eat the skin). Guess what? It just tasted like plain old chicken! Next time, I will try the chicken pieces...if there is a next time. I also made grilled asparagus -- probably NOT a great choice..cuz it didn't have much taste. I did "splurge" on 2 things (and yes...my scale showed it this a.m.) -- I had tomato/mozzarella salad (but I did use my mom's recipe)....and I ate a LARGE low-carb candybar!!

Lilita -- that was a wonderful post! You are right...this is not forever!! I used to be 5'7" too -- lost 2" somewhere! (well, I am about 10 yrs older than you!!). How wonderfully wonderful that your grandson noticed! I give you credit for moving in with your "boy"friend (they are always boys!!). I always wonder if I will ever feel like dating again....it will be 2 years New Years Eve that I lost Eddie in Iraq. My BAD news came Wednesday night (now -- THERE I sure could have used a drink -- instead I walked around the house yelling at the top of my lungs and throwing things!). The trial for my husband's death was postponed for the 7th time!! It was supposed to be Jan.27th-- I had really thought all of this would be behind me before I took my first vacation by myself EVER in March. I need to move on ...and cannot until this is all over with! (and so no....I didn't take any wine...altho an Amaretto Sour sounded amazing! I had planned on a glass or two of wine yesterday....but then I ate that candybar!!).

Well, I sure didn't mean to write SO much....maybe I thought I would never get on the forum again with all the site problems, huh?? But ya know...I NEED to share this last thought with you! My life turned upside down and inside out when I lost my husband. There were days I didn't get out of bed...didn't eat....cried all day! I started taking "babysteps" a year after his death. First step -- I did acupuncture to try to help with my chronic headaches. I did it weekly until I went on IP -- (couldn't afford both). It didn't help the headaches much...but somehow, it helped balance me. My fibromalygia is better - for sure. The next step - Therapy. I fought this every step of the way. I was raised to "put on my big-girl panties" and deal with things. I did this when my SIL and my son kinda did an intervention. I never thought I could commit to it. My mental health is SO much better then it was in May when I started. BECAUSE I was able to commit to the therapy, I decided to take on my weight.....and I started IP. I knew my weight had to be affecting my health -- plus I KNEW I wasn't eating properly. I think I basically lived on carbs and sugar since Eddie died. I ALSO knew if I could handle the "strictness" of IP - I could probably commit to other things! So - IP has done more for me than just weight loss. It has helped my physical health...but also my mental health! I remember now -- that I always loved fashion! I feel I can wear things again that "draw attention" (I love beads, sequins -- lots of gold and glitter...what can I say?). My nurse gave me the most wonderful compliment Wednesday. She said I always had a great sense of style...even heavier. But she can really see it now! (and I am wearing my old clothes...but now I care if they fit!! -- I didn't before). She said my style was so "uniquely me."...and not everyone could carry it off! I came home on "cloud 9" (well until I opened the stupid mail and found out about the trial)...because I finally feel I am becoming ME again. I will never be the old me....I don't have my life partner anymore (we were married 37 years)...but I am slowly finding the new me. My son wrote me a beautiful note a few weeks ago....that he feels like he "has his mom back." He said we both dealt with my husband's death in different ways...but he had felt he had lost his mom AND his dad. (OK -- I am crying here....). So -- I am coming up to the 2nd year of Eddie's death...but this year, I know he would be proud of me. I have taken babysteps towards my physical health and my mental health. Yeah...he would "totally freak" at the cost of IP -- but yet, I know he would have encouraged me to go on it. Geez...I forgot my whole point here!! I guess my point is -- Do what you have to do to get where you need to go!!


Torchlaker, you just took this to a whole new level....Thank You.

What you were doing...what we all have gone through at some point..is self-immolation. You had a damn good reason to. For the rest of us, maybe a less painful reason, but they all happened. They all are legitimate. Slowly, over decades, I came to accept that what I wanted to do, to be, when I was younger, did not appeal to me as I got older and had more perspective. I don't know why, but people facing great pain want to erase themselves.

What you said about IP, or it's motivating us to be good to ourselves, really, REALLY resonates with me. Thanks for putting it into words.

Thanks, Torchlaker, and all of you for being the tremendous support you've been. And you are right. It IS kind of like and obsession to visit here. We're not crazy, though. We're lucky as ****.

Have a glorious weekend!

P.S.: MIRAZON AND MONTANAMOM,

HIGH FIVE...MORE INCENTIVE!

Torchlaker - your post made me cry - you've been through so much and still going through it waiting for the trial. Glad for you too that this IP diet has become one important step on the road to where you need to be.

Cost - yeah it's a lot. But you get so much protein for the calories - at our presentation this part really hit home. To get the amount of protein in a packet with 100 calories, you would need to eat something like 500 calories of chicken. I don't plan on being on this for ever so I'm just going to hunker down and do it. I figure too that I'm saving money on beer and wine - oh yeah and when my husband and I go out I can drive home so we're saving money on cabs.

Yeah if I was 130 lbs, I'd probably wear a bikini in the snow too - so funny, what a picture...all the IP girls in their bikinis this winter...LOL!!!

Torchlaker - your post made me cry - you've been through so much and still going through it waiting for the trial. Glad for you too that this IP diet has become one important step on the road to where you need to be.

Cost - yeah it's a lot. But you get so much protein for the calories - at our presentation this part really hit home. To get the amount of protein in a packet with 100 calories, you would need to eat something like 500 calories of chicken. I don't plan on being on this for ever so I'm just going to hunker down and do it. I figure too that I'm saving money on beer and wine - oh yeah and when my husband and I go out I can drive home so we're saving money on cabs.

Yeah if I was 130 lbs, I'd probably wear a bikini in the snow too - so funny, what a picture...all the IP girls in their bikinis this winter...LOL!!!

Bikinis every Thanksgiving morning and New Year's Eve!!! At 5AM.!!! Let us make a pact.

Hey...how do you all feel about posting pictures of ourselves at our goal weights? Hard, I know, but think about how inspirational it would be. We seem to be the Freshman Class of IP here......

Torchlaker, you don't have to answer if it's too much...but is your suit against a private security company? I'm just curious.

Bikinis every Thanksgiving morning and New Year's Eve!!! At 5AM.!!! Let us make a pact.

Hey...how do you all feel about posting pictures of ourselves at our goal weights? Hard, I know, but think about how inspirational it would be. We seem to be the Freshman Class of IP here......

Torchlaker, you don't have to answer if it's too much...but is your suit against a private security company? I'm just curious.

I'm quoting myself for a post....new frontier....
Torchlaker, really, you probably shouldn't answer my last impestuous question.

Aawwww...thanks everyone. It felt good to get that out....and to put it - finally - into words. Self-immolation? I gotta look that up...! Yes, I do believe we all have had trials, tribulations, paintful reasons. ....maybe that is how we all got "here." I do believe that each trial - eventually - will make us all stronger. I told my son today what I posted on here. He knows I am TERRIBLE with any type of commitment...and he told me that he has been stunned that I have stayed committed (aaaahhh....now to stop smoking). Echobaby...my suit is against the insurance company.....

Spatime -- my therapist says the same thing your hubby says....that this program is going to keep health care costs down. Your hubby sounds like a gem! I have always heard that trying to lose weight at our age is very hard...our metabolism slows down, yadayada...I think that is the wonderful thing about IP....It doesn't seem to care what AGE you are! Isn't that great?

Mirazon -- how wonderful for you! That has to be very special! MontanaMom...are you only 1# from goal???

Well, this gal won't be wearing a bikini ever again....snow or no snow!! 5am? I am just rolling over!! I did have the nurse take a picture of me Wednesday...it is still in my camera. To me, I still look heavy....(poor body image??). I was going to send it to some of my friends that won't see me at Christmas....but I STILL hate the camera....plus I am NOT at goal yet.

It sounds like we all got back on track today. I think that is a good thing!! We could have gone crazy the whole weekend! Straying from any diet is a way of life, isn't it? Life has to be livable....Holidays are a way of life. If we learn from this diet, we can go off and get right back on...ya know....like normal people do! I keep telling myself I CANNOT gain the weight back, cuz now I won't have any clothes to wear. This is the first time EVER that I have gotten rid of clothes, or altered clothes.

has anyone out there bought the IP recipe book? The IP consultants here sell it but I haven't bothered even looking at it. At a recent event, all the food was from the recipe book and some was really tasty. I love and appreciate all the work that Ogdog and others have done posting recipes but with the recent trouble getting on the site, it might be nice to have a recipe book to refer to. I also think the recipe book might list calorie and carb counts and what is allowed in which phase.

Do what you have to do to get where you need to go!!

You have definitely done this not only for yourself but you are helping those of us who have the privilege of reading your posts!!! Thanks so much for being willing to share.

I went shopping for a new dress for a wedding that I'm going to in a few weeks. I tried on lots of dresses and a few tops and skirts too and am fitting in clothes anywhere from 2-4 sizes smaller than what I was wearing before!!!

What a boost!!! You must feel on top of the world! Since the wedding is not for a few weeks, who knows what size you'll be then. Congratulations on seeing the success of all your work:)

Aawwww...thanks everyone. It felt good to get that out....and to put it - finally - into words. Self-immolation? I gotta look that up...! Yes, I do believe we all have had trials, tribulations, paintful reasons. ....maybe that is how we all got "here." I do believe that each trial - eventually - will make us all stronger. I told my son today what I posted on here. He knows I am TERRIBLE with any type of commitment...and he told me that he has been stunned that I have stayed committed (aaaahhh....now to stop smoking).

Too funny...I had to Google self-immolation too!! I have to agree even though different life paths have brought us to this point. The past and our reactions to it are valid.

I challenge that you are "terrible" with commitment. You were married for 37 years and raised a family!!! The only thing you may have done is not put yourself first while caring for others. Now you're conquering that problem as well. All the best with quitting smoking!

I have to ask...What type of low carb candy bar did you eat on Thanksgiving? Did you make it or buy it?

mom22- i looked through that cookbook, while waiting for an appt one day. my opinion was that alot of the recipes did not seem practical - and alot of them were not recipes you can cook now. it may be better for a different phaze of the diet. but mostly the recipes i read i also seen on the recipe site here. have you went on dr trans site? he has a recipe section..
but again, alot of the ingredients used may be difficult to get in our little knick of the woods....i am starting to wonder how i will cook once i am closer to my goal. around that time my house will be hockey player free!! i keep billets for our local hockey team...i will no longer have to cook so many carb heavy meals. i will be cooking for my husband and self only, for the first time since i went on this diet... i am looking forward to that. it has been difficult at times planning 2 totally separate meals, several times a day, every day...and although i have done it , i am ready for it to end....christmas is a busy month, with lots of social dates. i am hoping to reach another mini goal by december 21 weigh in - and then go off the diet, in a practical sense, for christmas eve and christmas day. this time i am not going to worry about it the way i did before. i maintained my weight the one time i took a planned cheat, but i never really enjoyed those days because of guilt. none of that this time - going to enjoy my 2 days, my family and my holiday. and get right back on track boxing day. lucky enough i have a big trip coming up that provides great incentive!!

Torchlaker, thank you for sharng with all of us. You are a true inspiration to ALL of us! Hang in there girly-girl. :carrot:

torchlaker: You also made me cry but not only with sorrow for the things that you have gone through but with happiness also at the strength you have found to go on!! You should be very proud of yourself!!!!!

I beg to differ in that I do not believe that you have taken baby steps, I say you have taken giant steps; baby steps in my mind, were thinking about doing those things for yourself and recognizing that things needed to change, but the giant steps have been in following though and sticking to it and being committed to yourself!!! You are an inspiration to me!!!!

Keep up the good work!!!

i am so glad I found this forum. It is such a support group. I love reading the posts and the positive feed backs that we give each other.

Keep up the good work everyone - girls & guys!

I'm close to going to Phase II. Just interested to see how really different it will be. It doesn't seem to be much, just not eating one of their packets. I sometimes divide my proteins between lunch adn supper anyway, so it probably won't seem much different

I have wondering what my options might be for Phase II and onward (and trying to keep costs down) and found that GNC sells a whey protein powder which seems to be comparable to the Myoflex and IP, in that 2 scoops provides 40 grams of protein, 1 gram of fat and 1 gram of carb and 170 calories. It is called Whey ISO burst (whey protein isolate) As one ideal protein pudding has 100 calories and 20 grams of protein I am thinking that this can be used to replace it by making a shake out of it and adding some sugar-free pudding mix for flavour or maybe something else like one of the WF syrups? One scoop would provide the same amount of protein and similar calories and even has some additional enzymes (not sure if they are the same ones as are added to IP)

Anyone tried this before?

I moved some posts out of the "Phase" sticky thread into this daily chat thread. This way when folks are looking for specific info on "phases" they don't have to scroll through lots of chat to get the info they need.

Thanks.. Chickies :hug:

Leenie

Boy....you guys really make me THINK! Ottawa...I had thought of them as "babysteps" -- but ya know...you are right. These are GREAT big GIANT steps for me. Mirazon... I also never thought about the "commitment" part of raising a family (well, one son)...and a 37-year marriage! Most of the time, I find myself "not doing anything that would require commitment" -- (mostly exercise...lol!!)...so I just figured I couldn't do commitments. (the Giant Candy Bar was a Russell Stover candybar.....thing is, it was really old!! It didn't really taste that good...but I was feeling sorry for myself, I think (mmmm...that "sorry stuff" probably got me where I am today, too...)

Aaaah....SandraB...what is a billet??? Is that a Canadian term? (but I live so close to Canada....I even say "eh" a lot of times!!) You guys are throwing all these big words at me!! Here, I was thinking you were feeding your son's highschool hockey team friends....You are feeding grownup men?

Ottawa...I had to go pull out my whey powder that I bought at GNC to see if it was the same one. It's not....I think the one you found is much better. ONE rounded scoop of the one I got (called Gold Standard Whey) is 120 cal., 1g.fat, 4g carb and 24g protein. This tastes ok, I guess. Can't remember why I bought it! Did you see the pudding recipes that OgDog posted that use whey powder in them? I hate shakes!!

Mom22 - I THINK I remember my nurse saying that the cookbook was probably best for the last phase....is that Phase 4? I am a cookbook addict (trying to control that now that I don't have anyone to cook for anymore)...and I REALLY was going to get it...but as with most of my lowcarb cookbooks, right now - not much fits into Phase I or even Phase II. The way I understand Phase 2 is that you add another protein (eggs, meat...) instead of the protein pack for lunch. I rarely eat lunch...sometimes a pudding or a shake around 2pm...and a few slices of cucumber or something. I know what you mean about the site going down....I didn't copy down the recipe for the "40 garlic clove chicken" -- and then the site went down. I remember when I was on lowcarb before, I used to "copy and paste" recipes into a separate file on my computer.

I think I told you all that I bought some organic greek yogurt with 0% fat and 12g of protein. I really don't like yogurt either (well, YoPlait with all the fruit and everything)..but I made some deviled eggs, and used the yogurt instead of the mayo. It certainly tastes much better than the WF mayo (yuk). I am wondering if it could be added to a sugarfree pudding....or chicken salad...or tuna salad? Mmmmm...Ogdog? I will be glad when I get some dairy back....and my OJ (Phase 3, I heard).

SandraB - I think you are right. I am going to TRY not to have any guilt when I go off for the 3 weeks in December (guilt is my middle name...lol!!). We have to enjoy the people around us...remember the Reason for the Season...I intend to enjoy all my family (and Eddie's) and my friends when i go back.

Just exhausted today....got up early to work on Christmas presents (I am making 90% of them) before my fibromalygia support group meeting...and I am just dragging. Had to laugh...one of the gals hasn't seen me since August. First she asked if I was growing my hair longer (yes)...Is it a different color (yes)...am I losing weight (well, ...yes). It was funny cuz she couldn't quite pinpoint it.

Gonna go have a chicken salad with ALL that leftover chicken I have! ..(and be grateful I don't have to feed a hockey team!) Hang tough, everyone!!

Torchlaker.....you are amazing..

Everyone on this forum has so much to offer...I really do feel special to have found all of you. Thank you all for your advice and support!

I just want to say good luck to all of you trying to get through U.S. Thanks-Giving. It CAN BE DONE! I appreciate all your words of wisdom and advice. I haven't logged on for quite a while and I've misssed a lot. I have to admit that my weight loss has slowed down considerably and I'm having a lot of trouble with cravings for things like potatoes and bread etc. Any advice? I've been on the plan for almost 8 weeks and have lost about 27 lbs. but I'm finding it harder and harder to stick to.

I just want to clarify that where I live it is only 10:55 pm so I am not up in the middle of the night!

Vallygrl: I am having a harder time now sticking to plan. Nothing sounds good to eat anymore. I am so sick of salads...and find I don't even look forward to my pudding or my bar anymore! I also have started "small" cheats to see if I can have these things when I go off the diet for 3 weeks in December (like lowfat mozzarella cheese on my salad, or fatfree RediWhip on my puddings).

One thing I am thinking about doing....My doc said I didn't need to buy any Ketostix to check whether I was in ketosis, because if I followed the plan, I WOULD be in ketosis. But after reading your post....and realizing I am having a few more cravings....I was thinking that maybe I SHOULD buy them and use them. I kinda remember from Atkins that if you are in ketosis..the cravings diminish or disappear (anyone correct me here if I am wrong....!!). I am wondering if perhaps you and I are NOT in ketosis if we are craving other things. I don't know if this is "advice" -- but I am just thinking out loud here.

Had been running a fever the last few days....but I feel so much better today...hoping to sew and paint today...and pay bills! I also know that if I stay busy, I think about food a lot less. The last 2 days I kinda vegged out in front of the t.v. cuz I felt too yucky to do anything else...and I found myself digging thru old lowcarb candy!

Speaking of....I got my "Netrition" package with the items I thought I might substitute when I went off IP for 3 weeks. I certainly haven't tried everything....but have tried 2 things...and thought I would "report" on them.

I bought Atkins Endulge bars....only tried the peanut butter ones. Quite good. Not very filling. Last night, I tried a protein bar called "Oh Yeah! Protein Wafers" in Vanilla/peanut butter creme. They were quite good, altho certainly not as filling as IP's Vanilla bars. The calorie count and fat count is quite high...but here are the stats: Calories: 210; calories from fat: 117, Total fat 13g - (6g from saturated fats, 0 trans fat...wonder what the other fats are??); 8g carbs - (dietary fiber 2g..sugars 4g); protein: 14g. These come 2 wafers in a package (kinda like KitKats)...so one could only eat ONE and halve the above stats, I guess....I ate both). There might be a better bar out there...and if anyone finds it - let me know. Not happy about the fat grams or the sugar grams.

Procrastinating....

An added note (no, I don't work for Netrition....honest). On netrition.com, you can look up nutrition facts on items....PLUS you can read people's reviews on them...which I found very helpful. There might be other sites that do this....but I find netritions prices very reasonable. Flat shipping rate of $4.95....and (my favorite part) -- when the box comes..it is almost like "Christmas". It is always packed so beautifully. The DiVinci syrups come packed in styrafoam....they use those little "air bags" (so fun to "pop"!! - I need a life) to take up extra room. AND the boxes are always so nice that I can use them again! (No..HONEST...I do not work for Netrition).

My favorite sugarfree DiVinci syrups lately has been the "pumpkin pie" - I always crave pumpkin pie in the fall. I use about 2 tablespoons in the water for butterscotch pudding...and add a dash of pumpkin pie spice. I also love the toasted marshmallow. I also bought Torani syrups at SuperWalMart. They had the raspberry and caramel in the smaller bottles....both of these are good in the Vanilla puddings. I don't do shakes or drink flavored coffees (give me black regular coffee!!)..but I think they would be really good in both.

I also bought NOW Magnesium and Calcium supplements. Can't remember the price...but it was way lower than IP. Haven't opened them yet (but they still "sound" huge like IP's)....3 tablets are: 200IU of Vitamin D, 400mg of Calcium, and 800mg of magnessium and 15g of zinc. I found it comparable to IP's. So far, I haven't been able to find anything with the amount of Postassium as IP's -- OR a comparable Multi-Vitamin. If anyone has...let me know.

I am NOT trying to put IP out of business...honest. I was just looking for subtitutes while I am gone. I bought 2 hot cereals from Netrition also, but haven't tried them yet because I am really trying to lose the last 5# that doc had set my goal at (150) before I leave...didn't want to mess with a good thing.

I worked my 12 hour shift yesterday (12noon to 12 AM) at the hospital.

Before work, I spent the morning clearing out my fridge of all the Thanksgiving leftovers (except the turkey) and packing them "nicely" to take to work.

I placed all the leftovers (including a big bag of dinner rolls and a cube of butter) in the break room. Then I announced to all my co-workers that I had brought food for them.

By 4 pm all the left-overs had been eaten. Yay! I sipped on an IP chocolate shake (over ice) and then had a huge green salad with sliced turkey for my dinner break.

Now, the reason this was a "non-scale victory" for me is because for as long as I can remember in my adult life, Thanksgiving leftovers were part of the "weekend after Thanksgiving eating binge" for me.

I mean, I even used to buy an "extra" pumpkin pie that I stashed in the fridge which of course I would then eat all of it myself over the weekend.

I am talking about multiple eating events. "Snacking" all day every day (from Friday to Sunday) on the left-overs and huge slices of pie with whipped cream for dessert.

This was the beginning of
"the Holidays" every year for me!

So I am sooooo happy that I have kicked this "carb monkey on my back" to

the curb this year.

My rapid wt. loss on IP (20 pounds in 6 weeks) has been a great motivator.

I am going all the way with this!

Thanks to all of you for your great support.

Keep reading and posting here, it has helped me tremendously to stay on track.

Lilita

I added my ticker!

I went out to a housewarming last night - didn't cheat (too much) - drank glass after glass of water. I skipped my protein snack after supper and snacked at the party on a couple of cubes of cheese, sliced sandwich meat and celery and such off the veg. tray. it was hard because there was so much good food there. I didn't miss the drinks but man oh man no fresh fruit off the fruit tray (strawberries) and no chips and dip - I miss chips more than anything else. I wore an outfit that makes me look...not too fat and I got lots of compliments on my look so that was motivating. I've lost around 15 lbs in 1 month and at 5'4" it's starting to show.

Here's the interesting part - a friend of mine is also on the IP diet. She told me she cheats all the time and she's losing and looks fantastic. She sticks to the IP diet during the week and then on the weekend she eats (almost) whatever she wants. And yeah, she really did - lots of drinks and snacks. She says that's the only way both emotionally and financially for her to stay on the diet. she figures it might take her longer but it's her way of doing it. It reminded me of an article I read a while back in First Magazine. They were promoting something called Carb Cycling. That's where you eat high carbs for a couple of days and then high protein/low carb for a couple of days - the results were really amazing. maybe....?? Just thought I'd mention because if that's the case, we are going to be able to go off this diet and maintain our weight with very little difficulty.

So glad you American girls are getting through Thanksgiving!

Mom22....I bought a book last summer called "Cracking the Fat Loss Code" or something like that. The author was Wendy Chant. I see that "3fatchicks" has a forum for them. It sounded really interesting. I did it for about 2 weeks...but I didn't lose any weight.

Lilita...wow...you are strong! I always remember eating LOTS of pumpkin pie after Thanksgiving. Turkey was never my favorite anyhow....and I have lots of chicken left. I have had chicken 4 days in a row now, so I am pretty sick of it. I think that the fast weight loss on IP is a great motivator.

Hi Everyone,

Got to tell you that I absolutely COULD NOT eat that IP food. No way. So I had to quit the program.

However, I have found what works for me and wanted to let you all know because as you come off of IP IF you start to gain weight I want to encourage you to pick up the book The Metabolism Miracle by Diane Kress. It is amazing and from what I've read by you guys on this forum I think many you probably have the Metabolism B syndrome that she writes about. I've only been on program for 1 week and I feel terrific. Better than I have for YEARS. If you are diabetic please please read this book.

That's it from me. Good luck to you all.

Texan123

So! Today begins Day #1 for me, starting with the crispy cereal. Definitely tastes like Splenda, but certainly not objectionable. The part I'm most nervous about is the feeling hungry... portion control has always been an issue for me.

Also, I remember being concerned that getting in at least 64 oz of water would be difficult... but man, you need all that just to take your supplements!

Which reminds me... how were you all told to take your supplements? My coach said to take all four CaMg and KCa at night.

Also, remembering earlier in the discussion... my coach actually gave a reasonable reason for eating your snack before bedtime instead of between lunch and dinner, so your body has more to work with while repairing itself at night. So those of you not eating your snack at bedtime because you need it to get through the day... maybe split it in two, and have half of it then? What do y'all think?

Oh, and one last thing... where were y'all told to take the waist and hip measurements?

A new beginning, how exciting!

I have so many posts to go back & read. My home computer crashed last week & then the holidays came. But I wanted to report on a weight loss last week of 3.4 lbs on week three!!! I can live with that. As has been repeated numerous time on this site, it is a better weight loss number then any other diet we have been on! I am just glad those dang pies are out of my face now!

Meghan

So! Today begins Day #1 for me, starting with the crispy cereal. Definitely tastes like Splenda, but certainly not objectionable. The part I'm most nervous about is the feeling hungry... portion control has always been an issue for me.

Also, I remember being concerned that getting in at least 64 oz of water would be difficult... but man, you need all that just to take your supplements!

Which reminds me... how were you all told to take your supplements? My coach said to take all four CaMg and KCa at night.

Also, remembering earlier in the discussion... my coach actually gave a reasonable reason for eating your snack before bedtime instead of between lunch and dinner, so your body has more to work with while repairing itself at night. So those of you not eating your snack at bedtime because you need it to get through the day... maybe split it in two, and have half of it then? What do y'all think?

Oh, and one last thing... where were y'all told to take the waist and hip measurements?

A new beginning, how exciting!


Crispy cereal - did not like at all - I think because it appears so small with a few pieces of rice krispies floating around. Portion control for me is a big issue too. Got to be honest for the first 4 days I was really hungry - I drank a lot of water to get through it. My counselor also told me to eat an extra protein pack for the first few days if I was really hungry. I didn't but it's an option. I liked to think that if I was feeling hungry that was the pounds melting off - and I did lose over 5 lbs that first week. Not so hungry after the first few days - apparently once you get through the first few days, you're in ketosis and really burning fat.

Supplements - they wrote on top of the bottle how many to take/day and that made it easier. CaMg my sheet says 2 with supper and 2 with evening snack. 1 Potassium in the morning with breakfast. 1 multi-Vitamin with breakfast and 1 at supper.

I get measured in the following spots: neck (I've lost about 3/4" in my neck and can really tell), upper arm, chest (above boobs), upper waist (below boobs), smallest part of waist, belly button, hips (at widest), thigh, knee, calf and ankle. You really do lose in all those spots and it's exciting.

Well all the anticipation of the Thanksgiving holiday is over. I hope you all had a wonderful time.

@Torlaker You make me laugh, you make me cry. My deepest sympathies go out to you. I also had a horrible loss this year (stillborn full term) so I understand with the holidays and anniversaries and everything in between make it really difficult to sometimes get through a day. I'm really excited that you get to see you family in December. Your an amazing women. You have been through a lot. As someone said you took this forum to a whole new level.

@Echobaby I'm totally up for bikinis at 5am. :o In the snow!



We all have different reasons for our weight gain and what caused us to get to this point, but like I've said before I would be lost without ALL.:hug:

http://getentrepreneurial.com/images/inspiration.jpg

Hi Everyone,

Got to tell you that I absolutely COULD NOT eat that IP food. No way. So I had to quit the program.

However, I have found what works for me and wanted to let you all know because as you come off of IP IF you start to gain weight I want to encourage you to pick up the book The Metabolism Miracle by Diane Kress. It is amazing and from what I've read by you guys on this forum I think many you probably have the Metabolism B syndrome that she writes about. I've only been on program for 1 week and I feel terrific. Better than I have for YEARS. If you are diabetic please please read this book.

That's it from me. Good luck to you all.

Texan123

Texan123, I looked up the book; it looks very interesting. Are you diabetic? Diabetes runs in my family.

I worked my 12 hour shift yesterday (12noon to 12 AM) at the hospital.

Before work, I spent the morning clearing out my fridge of all the Thanksgiving leftovers (except the turkey) and packing them "nicely" to take to work.

I placed all the leftovers (including a big bag of dinner rolls and a cube of butter) in the break room. Then I announced to all my co-workers that I had brought food for them.

By 4 pm all the left-overs had been eaten. Yay! I sipped on an IP chocolate shake (over ice) and then had a huge green salad with sliced turkey for my dinner break.

Now, the reason this was a "non-scale victory" for me is because for as long as I can remember in my adult life, Thanksgiving leftovers were part of the "weekend after Thanksgiving eating binge" for me.

I mean, I even used to buy an "extra" pumpkin pie that I stashed in the fridge which of course I would then eat all of it myself over the weekend.

I am talking about multiple eating events. "Snacking" all day every day (from Friday to Sunday) on the left-overs and huge slices of pie with whipped cream for dessert.

This was the beginning of
"the Holidays" every year for me!

So I am sooooo happy that I have kicked this "carb monkey on my back" to

the curb this year.

My rapid wt. loss on IP (20 pounds in 6 weeks) has been a great motivator.

I am going all the way with this!

Thanks to all of you for your great support.

Keep reading and posting here, it has helped me tremendously to stay on track.

Lilita

You go girl!!! I ate all low-carb for TG this year, and the fam was behind me all the way on it! LOL, gave my dogs the left over pie (woof)!

Princass: thank you so much. I hope I make you laugh more than I make you cry!! I only get in those moods (brooding) once in a great while. I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot even imagine the pain. Do you have other children?

Elisha - I didn't like the crispy cereal at all. I eat the oatmeal with a little WF syrup on top. I feel way more full with it....plus I get frustrated chasing those 5 little rice krispies around the bowl. Water is a key these first days...wash those toxins out!! I had a killer headache for 3 days and lived on aspirins. I take most of my supplements at night (cuz it takes me ALL day to get up enough nerve to swallow the horse pills!). If I remember, sometimes I split up the CalMag - 2 in the afternoon, 2 at bedtime. (I always heard magnesium helps you sleep). Yeah..that is where I get in most of my water...swallowing those things. But - I can tell you -- I can definitely feel it if I don't take them. I don't take my measurements....my nurse takes them....I just get excited about them!! She always has a hard time finding my waist. I am definitely built like a rectangle....always have been even when I was skinny.

Meghan0 - you lost 3.4# the week of Thanksgiving?? I am so impressed....you are doing wonderful.

Texas123 - I totally understand not liking the IP products. I am getting pretty tired of them myself. At first, I experimented...but now I stick to the bars, oatmeal and puddings. I was pretty disappointed with the other stuff. Is there a website about The Metabolism Miracle? Geez, I thought I had Syndrome X (or whatever it is called)....I don't want another syndrome.

Well, I wore out an outfit I altered today to do errands. Everyone was commenting on how different I looked. I think I am gonna have fun with this....BUT Ihave to watch myself. One starts hearing compliments...and then thinks, "Hey, I don't look bad at all" -- and then poof...I am off the diet.

I am glad some of you are posting again. I got worried that the Thanksgiving holiday might have caused some of us to go off IP, and not get back on. Ya gotta admit....these next few weeks are gonna be tough!! We gotta hang tough!

OgDog: I bought some Lactaid milk (I am lactose intolerant)...fat free...but geez, the sugar and carb amounts are just awful...but I am gonna try the pudding thingy again.

Back to altering....we are expecting snow tonight! I gotta alter some warmer pants!

Princass, I want to tell you how very truly sorry I am for your stillborn baby. I also had a stillborn baby boy at full term in August of 2003. I don't know if the weight you are losing is from your pregnancy, but I HATED having to carrying around that weight with NOTHING to show for it! Hang in there & I am more then willing to be you email buddy if you need support dealing with your loss. Time heals.

IS any one actively exercising??? I am considering joining a Curves or Curcuit type of gym for a few months. You know the women only gym where you do strength & cardio? I would love to hear how exercise is going for others
Thanks, Meghan

Hey guys!
I had my fourth weight in and lost 6 lbs!

So my first month I lost 32 pounds =o amazing.

I am so glad that you stuck to your program. It's inspiring.http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/images/smiles/carrot.gif

IS any one actively exercising??? I am considering joining a Curves or Curcuit type of gym for a few months. You know the women only gym where you do strength & cardio? I would love to hear how exercise is going for others
Thanks, Meghan

I have been exercising the whole time I have been on IP. We were told not to do very much steady state cardio so usually twice a week I do "interval training" on my treadmill (2-4 minutes at one speed and then 2-4 minutes at either an increased speed or increased incline or both, depending on how strong I feel that day,... enough to bring my heart rate up to almost max and then back down again to the level that it was when I was just at the one speed) and a 1 hour exercise class once a week that combines cardio and resistance training. It really helps me. I have recently started to add more exercises after my treadmill work, such as more ab exercises, specific leg and waist exercises etc. in the hopes of making sure I tighten things up as I lose the pounds.

@torlaker I do have a perfect little 7yr old man!! LOL He thinks he's 16 already. He truely is the only reason I breath. :D