They don't ask and I don't mention it. I substitute the EAS shakes where I would normally have IP shakes and the Pure Protein bars where I would normally have an IP bar. I fill out my journal ... I write "RTD chocolate drink" .... etc. I do like the variety of IP (another reason I'm not quite ready to go it alone) so in the beginning stocked up on various things so I never did buy the "exact" number of packets each week sometimes I bought a lot sometimes I had extra at home and didn't but much at all ... no one has ever questioned it. I know some people have discussed it and had their coaches be OK with it and others have had coaches that had a problem with it. I am a wimp so I avoid it lol!

Funny Cole, I am also a "wimp" - I have been buying a lot of alternatives as well as the 21 IP products a week (I am stockpiling for the next phases I guess!) but have not mentioned using alternatives to my coaches because I am scared to lose the weekly face-to-face weigh-in and accountability.

I am thinking that as I get closer to goal I might try to do it with 3FC support without an in-person coach...I am reluctant because I have been on a weight see-saw my whole life and being able to see my coaches every two weeks or so while in maintenance (for weigh in and to buy Salt & Vinegar crisps) might be key to me becoming a successful "maintainer."