Hi beth0811
My personal suggestion would be to do Phase 1 until you lose the cravings and start feeling good again-3 to 5 days. Then you could really ease into a Phase 2 on a good note. In my opinion, Phase 2 is really all about long term lifestyle change.
I really enjoy the nuts, too. Many beachers find they're quite easy to overdo and that they certainly can slow weightloss. My personal habit varies; I used to have a spoonful before I would go on my morning bike ride. Instead, I now have a spicy mix that I toss on my lunch salad every day.
Best wishes!