[JustLauren]

About a month ago I stumbled across Ideal Protein. I read the forums and reviews. Most were positive and had great success. Then I found out the cost. My goodness! That nearly burst my bubble... then I saw someone on here mention about alternatives. I decided to go that route. And then that following week I started my Protein Diet... on my own.

I must be doing something right because I've lost 25 lbs in 3 weeks. I followed the IP protocol by eliminating dairy, fruit, carbs, and sugar from my diet. Everyday I have 3 servings of my protein shake and for dinner I have lean protein and vegetables. I've been on other diets where I had a "coach". IMHO, I felt like it was a waste of time to see these coaches. They weigh and measure you and before you know it you are whisked away. It felt impersonal and rushed. I knew I would get more support from my husband!

So, my question is... Is anyone going the same route and what obstacles did you encounter when doing this alone?

BTW - I like course. It fits my personality. Now, if only I could increase my water intake!

[lisa32989]

Lauren: There are LOTS of people following the plan using alternatives.
Just search for threads with alternative in the title and you'll find all the info you seek.

[ArmyWife2388]

I actually started with a coach and felt the same way you felt about it being impersonal and rushed. I only lasted about a month with her as I researched other protein alternatives and then I found this wonderful sight. If you are doing it on your own just know this is the place to be. I could not justify the cost of the Ideal products when I could purchase the same type of products for a third of the cost just to have someone else weigh me each week. I hit goal last summer and slowly gained back about 15 pounds so now I am back at it and know following IP is the easiest diet ever. Best of Luck in your journey to a healthier you!!

[Calisto]

I have been with my coach since November, but due to money (leaving my job) I am going to alernatives end of June after vacation.

I have been nothing but happy with my coach, but I see people on here do it themselves and know I can too!

My biggest thing is getting into a routine once I quit work... I have a routine at work.. hard when I am home all day with 4 kids running around! lol

[scorbett1103]

I did all but the first 8 weeks of my weight loss on alternatives, following the Phase 1 protocol. It can be challenging when you don't have a coach to be accountable to (some people benefit more from that in-person accountability), but I used these forums as my "coaches"! I would make sure to check in daily, posted my daily menu in the "what are you eating" thread, and ALWAYS asked lots of questions. I'm now in maintenance for almost 3 months, and really I feel like the awesome people here at 3FC made me better equipped to handle maintenance than the "coach" I started out with.
Good luck to you!

[Beau24]

My clinic uses both IP and Alternatives to offer variety. I've been on IP for 5 days and don't feel much of a difference in weight or feel that I've entered ketosis. I see some of these awesome losses and get a little discouraged.

[ZOMBIEDAWN]

I didn't feel that much of a difference, either. Though on my first weigh in I was down 7 lbs.

It'll happen.

[smcmod]

Lots of helpful info on this forum...I'll stick to this thread since we seem to be in the same place and mindset.
Like Just Lauren I investigated and figured I could do this on my own, without incurring cost of weigh in and coach. On the recommendation of this forum I ordered from Diet direct, nashua nutrition, etc. Got my first order yesterday...Hazelnut bars just what I needed to curb sweet tooth...Proti vanilla shake blended with coffee and ice was the perfect breakfast for me - a non-breakfast eater.
Good luck - let's make it work!!