Hello,
I began the South Beach Diet 9 days ago. I have strictly followed the plan however the scale has not moved at all!

Did anyone else have this kind of beginning?

I am trying hard to stick with the program, but it keeps coming into my head that maybe it isn't the right eating plan for me. I ate low carb (but high fat) for over a year with no weight loss so I thave been trying other plans to see if they will work.

My husband says that I give up on the weight loss plans too quickly and that is why I don't lose the weight.

I see that the weight loss on you signature trackers is significant, but did any of you go the first two weeks without any loss?

Thank you for any help!

Bonnie, why don't you post a typical day's meals so we can see if we notice anything special? Please don't be discouraged. We'll help you.

Of course phase 1 results are different for everyone, and there can be many variables. Can you tell us a little more about yourself?

After a year on the low carb/higher fat plan perhaps you subconciously let too much fat into your menus. Veggies are a big part of the SB way of eating. Are you getting enough of those?

Did you keep a food journal for the 9 days?

As the old saying goes, "if at first you don't succeed, try, try again."

Also remember that the less you have to lose, the slower the scale moves. Same goes for having your period and the list goes on and on.

Don't be too discouraged and post a sample menu for the day. Remember to drink LOTS of water too!

How exciting that you responded!

I am 41 years old, live in Eklutna Alaska, no children.

1999 I went from a tight size 12 to a loose size 10 in 6 weeks on the Atkins diet; no idea of actual weight.

Within 7 months I was back to the tight 12 because of bread eating.

Then in 2002 I broke my back and lived in body cast for 8 months. I was about 180 when I got out of the cast/brace. I went on the Atkins and lost about 10 pounds immediately.

I have been between 165 and 170 from then to now even though I ate only meat and a few vegetables ever since I got out of the cast/brace.

I haven't been very creative with the menu for the first 9 days:

Morning
1/2 C egg substitute
1/2 onion
1 Canadian Bacom
Cooked with Pam
OR
same thing but with 1/2oz shredded low fat cheese

Snack
1 Skim Milk cheese stick

Lunch
AES Protein shake (100 calories)
OR
the Salad with Tuna that is in the book

Snack
celery

Dinner
Skinless chicken breast (marinated in lemon and garlic)
1C veggies (about 1C maybe less)
OR
London Broil (one night)
1C veggies
OR
the Salad with Tuna

I drink at least 60 oz of water.

Thank you so much! I hope that I have given you enough info.

Bonnie - one thing that jumps out at me is that you are not getting nearly enough vegetables. Try to aim for 4 1/2 cups every day. Go for a variety of different ones to help you get all your different vitamins and nutrients and to be less bored.

I'm not familiar with the protein shake that you are using but meal replacement shakes are not allowed on South Beach. There is a recipe for one in the recipe forum that is okay, I believe. Sometimes your body holds on to the weight if you don't eat enough. I know I would be hungry if I only ate what you were eating but then it may be different for you.

Barb is dead on, as usual!
You might also run your food through www.fitday.com to see how many calories you are getting. You could be too low and sending yourself into starvation mode.

You guys are great! I will increase my veggies and I will go to that website!

Thanks a bunch!

Bonnie, I was just going to say that you're not getting enough veggies, but I see you know that by now.
Good luck, hon! We're here for you anytime.