[Swedemella]

Do I need to check my calories as well as my carbs .. so many posts says that they haven't lost because they have probably eaten too many calories .. not sure how many calories I'm suppose to eat on Atkins ..

At the moment I'm not even thinking about calories, which I have found to be a relief....

J

[Jennifer 3FC]

Swedemella, if you are losing, I wouldn't worry about it. I don't think Atkins picks a calorie amount, but he does say 'eat only until full'. Some people dont' think calories matter, but I do. If you are eating the 3 cups of salad and the meats like he asks, that helps keep the calories down. For me, I rack up calories in too many nuts and cheese. I know I go over his recommended amounts of those foods some days.

Most doctors will say you have to burn more calories than you take in. My recommendation is to count if you are not losing, and see where you are. Calories would depend on how active you are and how much you weigh. Never below 1200 a day, but how much more depends on you. If you aren't losing at 2000 calories a day (for example) , try dropping to 1800 and see if that makes a difference.

[Tummy Girl]

Swedemella, I have to agree with Jennifer. Calories aren't that improtant, especially in the beginning when the weight comes off quicker. And it's more important to stay full, regardless of calories while battling the carb cravings in the first few days. But after the weight loss tapers off a bit, watching the calories is a big help, myself I tend to go too low which stalls the weight as well. So if you're fairly high or low and not lossing it might be useful to adjust your caloric intake, otherwise, carbs and the ratios seem to be the most vital component.

Tummy

[Ruthxxx]

When you DO decide to check calories, www.fitday.com is free and does a great job once you get used to it.
I agree with the other chicks, calories do count but no need to worry about them at first as your body adjusts to a new WOE.