Why is it, I'm afraid to count net carbs vs the carbs it says in the ingredients? I feel I'm cheating and shouldn't subtract for all the fiber, sugar alcohols etc. Do all of you count the net carbs? Julie

Net carbs are ok! You are subtracting out the fiber, which can't be digested, and doesn't affect your blood sugar. Seems like cheating but it isn't! Look at it this way - if you counted all the fiber, then people would be less likely to get a high fiber diet, which is very important for everybody, regardless of plan! Fiber is essential, so don't feel guilty.

As for sugar alcohols, you don't need to count them either, but take it easy on them, they are a popular reason for stalling weight loss!

Hi Jewels -

Jennifer's right about fiber. If you can't digest it, you can't metabolize it, so it doesn't count.

I disagree on the sugar alcohol issue, though. I HAVE to count them. While sugar alcohols don't affect your blood sugar levels, your body still metabolizes them so they WILL have an effect on your weight loss.

Of course, it's a matter of figuring out how your body works and responds to these things, but I'd advise staying away from sugar alcohols during induction and using them very sparingly afterwards.

Good luck!