Quote:
Originally Posted by Bubsalub
I have had an initial informational meeting with a coach and I am talking with my husband about starting IP. I am having a difficult time combing through the millions of posts to find a comprehensive (updated) US list of equal alternative products.
I think my initial plan would be to use their starter pack but then replace at least 1 IP meal with an alternative product (since this is my first go around and I don't want to compromise anything). I was thinking if i could find a replacement ready made drink or a bar that would help offset some of the weekly costs.
Also, do you share you are buying alternatives with your coach?
Thank you !!!!!!!!!!
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Hi Bubsalub - and welcome. I understand your apprehension about the cost of IP, it IS $$$. Many people have been successful in following the plan using some alternate products. As far as I know, there is no comprehensive list of alternate products. The important thing is to make sure they fit the protocol guidelines (I'll post that at the end).
I used mostly Ip products in the beginning, then added in some alternates.
You could start with Quest protein powder (available at GNC, Vitamin Shoppe, probably other places. It can replace shakes and puddings, and can be used to make cookies, muffins, pancakes, etc (look through earlier pages of this thread for recipes).
For bars, I liked the Proti-thin and Proti-diet bars from nashuanutrition.com, most of them fit IP protocol.
I know it's time-consuming to read through the threads, but start with this one, there are other products mentioned here.
Also, there is A facebook group for IP Alternatives (Ideal Protein Alternatives) that has a lot of good information on products that can be substituted.
As for letting your coach know you are going to be using some alternatives...that can be tricky. Even if your coach is a wonderful person who truly wants to help you get healthy and thin, you have to keep in mind that they are in the business to make money, and where they make it is from the IP products they sell. Your call.
Good luck, and good for you for taking the first step.
Here are the guidelines:
Here's a detailed breakdown to consider:
- under 160 calories = Unrestricted (though MOST IP packets range from 90-120)
- 160-200 calories = Restricted (once/daily)
slightly over 200 cals (or 30% fat) is super-restricted (once/weekly)
- less than 30% cal from fat (multiply cals from fat x 3; OK if lower than total cals.)
- under 8 g net carbs - unrestricted
- 9g-16g net carbs - restricted
- 17g net carbs - super restricted (only once/twice per week)
- above 17g net carbs is too high to be good for Phase 1
- at least 12-15g protein (don’t go much above 20g regularly)
* NET = Total carbs minus fiber