[rockinrobin]

Originally Posted by Melgettinthin

I myself know I could not stick to my program if it meant I could not have tasty things I enjoy.

I agree with this statement 1000%. This is why I had to find NEW and different, delicious foods that are low cal and healthy, yet still enjoyable. So yes, I can still have extremely tasty things, but they don't have to be off plan/high calorie. I thoroughly enjoy each and every item that I am eating now.

Eating foods that are good for you, does not mean eating foods without taste. For me, it would be impossible to stick to a lifestyle without garnering pleasure from what I eat.

[traci in training]

We went to visit our oldest daughter at college yesterday and took her out for supper. Her choice - Applebee's. They have some weight watchers choices, but I love their pasta. So I ordered it. Alfredo sauce, chicken tomatoes, pasta. Big pile of calories! But it's what I wanted and it tasted wonderful.

Here's the difference: I ate maybe 1/3 of the meal. Way less than half. The rest I packed in a box and sent back to the dorm with our daughter. She won't have to cook lunch today and my plan isn't dead for the day. Yes, it's probably an 800-1000 calorie bowl of food. But I've learned to eat only what I'm hungry for and then STOP! I'd much rather eat a little of something I'm really hungry for than a big ol' plate of crappy salad or flavorless chicken that somebody's calling the "diet" special of the day.

[Bouncing]

Oh, yes, I hear you, traci, on having what you want in an amount that does not make you feel like you "failed." Robin, I love finding delicious treats that are on-plan. Now, for example, an indulgence that feels so outrageously luxurious it should be illegal, is sliced strawberries with a sprinkle of splenda and a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream (not whipped). My mouth thinks it's died and gone to heaven. Yes, it's about 6 of my daily 20g carbs, but SO worth it! And if I'm feeling deprived, I'll bbq a rib-eye steak. Completely on plan, but feels like it shouldn't be. I have found ways to stick to Atkins without feeling like I'm "on a diet" at all. This seems to be necessary for me. What I eat is still absolutely required to make me happy, or I won't be able to do this for any length of time, let alone for life! I had to find a plan that lets me eat things I love, and doesn't "prescribe" so-called food, dry and tasteless, or downright disgusting, that I have to hold my nose to get through. I think that's why it's so important for each of us to keep searching until we find a plan that feels natural and satisfying, and not like a hardship. For me, it's Atkins. And since my lipid panel got stunningly better since I started this, it clearly is good for me!