Lisa,
I really believe that the slow progress is due to the many changes going on in your system. Quitting smoking changes everything. The meds you are taking have an effect on weightloss. Since you can't quit taking them, I really recommend you keep up with the program at least a month or so. I truly believe you will start to see a weight loss. It may never be as rapid as someone who is not on the meds, but you will lose and eventually reach your goal. You may also find you'll be able to quit some of the meds as your weight drops and your overall numbers improve. How much longer do you have to be on the zyban? Also, I just read in the Atkins book about people who got headaches partially due to a high carb diet. Maybe your headaches will go away, or diminish to the point you can stop that medication as well. I also read you have a problem with yeast. Dr. Atkins recommends laying of cheese, vinegar, nuts and other "aged" foods until the yeast problems decrease. Yeast also slows weight loss, so that may also be a contributing factor in your slow start. There are several chapters dedicated to people who don't respond to the diet right away. What I remember most about the Doc's advice is not to give up. I agree. I think this will work for you. Maroon is a good sign! Reading the books again will help as well. It helps keep you focused and reading about others who have had a slow start and how they overcame should help. I don't envy anyone having to stare at spaghetti and not be able to eat it. Italian restaurants and pasta are off limits for my family because I am tooooo weak (and italian) so it's not natural not to eat pasta when it's within a ten mile radius.
Good Luck Lisa. I know you will succeed!
MB
Don't Give Up!
