We are glad you are joining us for this journey!

I like you already RA! welcome!

Hi JanMarie - I agree, mindless snacking is a tough habit to break! For those times when you just have to put something in your mouth, lettuce works! I keep a big bowl of lettuce at work with me just to have something when the "afternoon munchies" hit. I'm trying to break the munching at my desk habit so now I keep it in the fridge and have to go get a handful if I really want it.

Congrats on the wedding sunflwr, so exciting!

Happiecat, I really think it's going to come down to what will work for you. The people here can be excellent virtual coaches and are willing to share all their expertise if that will work for you. Some people need the more "one on one" experience. Do you have a friend that can be a "diet buddy" and give you a kick in the pants when needed?

Travelingchick - what were you starting your day with? Have you tried eating something lighter (one of the fruit drinks, maybe?) or maybe something heavier (oatmeal muffins?) and see if it makes a difference? I find it I'm still needing a pack at the end of the day and am not terribly hungry using an orange drink or peach mango or another drink mix works out well. Play around a bit and see what works for you.

Welcome calriemartini! I love the recipes and information here, so much good knowledge!

Maureen - what protein bar did you buy and did you have it instead of your protein and veggies? Hard to say what it will do, but drink extra water and get back 100%. I find planning ahead for functions is vital - find out what's being served, have a plan on what to eat or bring your own. Learning to navigate functions (work and social) is tough, but you can do it!

Theresa - we're all rooting for this to work for you too!

If I missed anyone, sorry about that! Welcome to all the newcomers - we're looking forward to getting to know you!

yikes!!! are we not allowed to chew gum????!!!

this is getting stricter by the day - I must say I feel great - not bloated

Maureen - some clinics allow gum sweetened with sucrulose, some don't. I think some clinics sell Spry gum. As always, use in moderation if allowed or if you chose to use it.

Hello all. I lost about 30lbs in 2012 while on IP and loved the results. Hard...oh yeah but worth it in the end. I have been maintaining for over a year with heats of phase 1 here and there to keep it in check. Lots of life changes since mid-October and while I haven't went all out binging, I definitely was not mindful about weighing everyday like I usually did. Long story short, I am back to do time in phase 1 until I am feeling good again. Who knows, maybe I will shoot for the moon and go for an extra 10-15lbs from my original goal. Happy to meet you all. I have always so enjoyed theses threads!

When I started I was told that I'm allowed up to 3 pieces of Stride gum a day. Guess it just depends on your coach's instructions though... I usually pop in a piece when the hunger starts in, helps to get my mind off of eating.

Thank you all for the warm welcomes!!

That's why I chew it too - not all day or anything -

I am going to IP meeting tonight and would like to start ASAP, but I have a week long ski trip planned at the end of the month and I know I won't be able to follow the plan.

So for those of you with experience on the IP plan, should I start now and follow for about 2 1/2 weeks then restart after my trip or wait and start in March? Any opinions appreciated!

Hi Ruth Ann, thanks for your warm welcome!

I've discovered how valuable lettuce is but it's funny, the other day I was at my desk mowing through a container of lettuce I brought, and a friend commented saying that she's never seen anyone eat so much plain lettuce like that before! LOL. And I'm amazed at how good it actually tastes when you're hungry/bored enough!

I had my first weigh in yesterday at the day #5 mark just because of how scheduling worked, and I'm down 5 pounds!! That in itself is so much motivation to keep me on track.

I'm looking forward to being a part of this forum.

Hi there: I had a similar experience starting IP for 2 weeks then going on a ski trip too (mid November) Unless you are going hut-to hut- backcountry skiing, you should be able to do the protocol - I did. Just take lots of puddings and drinks with you since you can eat those anywhere - just add water. Any restaurant in the evening should be able to do lightly stir fried veg or steamed if you are REALLY strict with a piece of salmon or sole or halibut or steak, etc (no sauces please). For lunch I took lots of celery, cukes, and other easy to prepare veg and did soup or omelette packets in our condo. You will be able to do it with a bit of advance prep and you'll feel mighty good about it too! Don't wait to start! Check with your coach and see if she will agree to check in via text in case you have any issues/questions or just want to celebrate your food successes. Mine does. Good luck

Liana

Thanks canadjineh! I am going to start Saturday. Will give me 18 days to get going. Hoping I can keep it going during the trip!

I want to thank everyone for their tips after last weeks tough weigh in. Today I was down 7.1 lbs and 4.5 inches for a total of 19.9 lbs and 15.5 inches in 5 weeks!!! So happy!!!!!

Start! You'll always find an excuse to wait.