Nice job on the signature!

It looks like this is the best forum for you on here. http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/vegetarian-chicks-121/ They have some raw vegan, etc. info with dieting there, but it doesn't seem too active. Ideal Protein is low carb and does focus on protein (hence the name), and it is probably possible to do it in your way, but I think you would have an issue with some of the supplements we use on this diet. They have IP centers that sell the products, weigh you in, etc. Many folks here also follow the diet on their own using products that are very similar to the ones sold at IP clinics.

Good luck whatever you decide.

Welcome Tafetta!

doing the IP program with alternative products can be very successful, and with the support from 3FC Ideal Protein subforum, as well as the good guidance from the Beck Solution, you will have plenty of good info that often exceeds what folks learn from their real Ideal Protein coach.... there are a lot of experienced IPeeps here who have tried everything, and there are great recipes, success stories, and more.

You can do this!

Come join the 25 lb Challenge -- see the new thread just started today!

Welcome back, SeattleD!
Enjoy your holidays and come on back for a new lifestyle start in the new year - there is plenty of support and good info here to help you make the alts work. I am doing the alts approach too!

Join the 25 lbs to Spring 2016 challenge - the tracking will be helpful to you!

So I cheated over the holidays (last 3 days) and am getting back on the plan tomorrow. Not too bad but had wine out on vacation and some non 'ideal' meals but tried to just order protein and veggies. Just wondering if others have done this and how long it takes for the body to kick back into ketosis etc. any thoughts or similar experiences?

Welcome Tee4Tee. I am also a new/junior member and have been on IP for about 5 weeks. I have lost 15 pounds. Wishing you luck. This forum has been tremendously helpful to me to get ideas and feedback on what I'm going through.

It is hard to say whether you are totally out of ketosis - if you really tried to stay with protein and veggies, you might be back into the IP rhythm pretty quick. The wine and other things like sweet stuff probably would be the culprits to push you out of ketosis -- in my experience, a couple of days back on program and you should be ok. Drink extra water, and try to stick with the lowest carb packets.

Thanks oneuh2... That is good to hear

Hello! I'm just about a week into IP. I decided to start on Dec 23rd instead of waiting until the holiday was over because I had 5 days off work and felt I needed a few days of a new routine before the stress of work threatened to through me off course.

I managed to stick with the program 100% until yesterday (day 5) when I decided to allow myself half and half in my morning coffee. I even purchased a WF creamer to try and avoid this cheat but it was horrible. I can't wait until my first appt/weigh in 3 days from now. I'm also struggling with the 2 cups of veggies. When I eat some of the packets in my starter kit they are so gross (omlet, chicken a la king) I loose my appetite!

I have 70lbs to loose-so tired of dodging cameras and mirrors.

Thanks for the Welcome oneuh2. I will check out the challenge!

Kooki - I understand about the first experience with the packets. I was less than thrilled when I started and was wondering how am I going to manage this. If you have not already get Janeva's cookbook. I find that most packets need a little tweeking to make them better. I added veggies to the omelet packet. (have not tried the chicken a la king). If you are struggling eating the 2 cups of veggies. I try to mix things up. I like spinach in my morning shake. My favorite is the wildberry yogurt with spinach and ice (mixed in my ninja), but I have used mango ready to drink, vanilla and chocolate. If you don't like the color put it in a non see through mug.

The soups need veggies and seasoning in my opinion. I take broccoli, water and the broccoli cheese soup - blend in the ninja then pour in a bowl and heat or put in a container and heat up at work.

The pancake mix, potato mix, oatmeal, crispy cereal are essential for a lot of recipes. I made pizza on sunday with the potato mix. If you bake the packets you can get veggies in this way (zucchini bread / muffins / pancakes)

Anneli - You can do this. It may have set your progress back a few days if you moved out of ketosis. There is a thread that I have read several times; I re-read it when ever my willpower is weak. The Real Cost of Cheating. http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/idea...l-protein.html

Welcome back Tafetta and Seattle D.

Sue

Has anyone tried the Chocolatey Caramel Mug Cake packets yet? I just got it this morning and tried one for the noon packet. First let me say it's rather tasty IMHO. I do believe it needs a bit more water than the instructions call for and I stuck it back in the microwave for another 15 seconds after it didn't look fully cooked at just 30 seconds. Anyway I think it's a good alternative to the Chocolate Chip Pancake mug recipe.

M35A2 - I ordered one to try with today's order, but my clinic does not have them yet! I am P1, day 1 of week 5. I'm shocked that my cravings thus far have leaned toward SWEET things, as I usually crave salty/greasy snacks. But the crisps and zippers and such were not very palatable, to me at least. Thanks for sharing your prep tip.

Hi All! Less than two weeks until my start date. I still need to order the cookbook. Gotta admit I've been overindulging since I know the party will be over soon. I need to get a handle on that.

Blessed - Welcome!

For newcomers, re-booters, and those who have been on the IP journey for awhile, this start to the new year might be a good time to review the basics about the IP program.

Check out the first post on this thread that Lisa started for us back in July - it has the essential links about IP -- protocol sheets for all 4 phases, and a bunch of other useful links that provide fundamental info.

In addition to those links, some may want the info about the IP Supplements (vitamins, etc.). Check out this link for a rundown on the macronutrient values for all the supplements and why they are part of the program.

This is a great reference for those who want to use vitamins etc they may already have on hand, and those who want to find less costly alternatives to the IP brand items.

Can you tell? I am getting my ducks in a row to make a great kickstart in January 2016 -- We can do this!!!

Hi everyone! I've been lurking here for a couple of weeks, reading up on IP. I made the plunge and have my starter kit, and will start on Monday the 4th. My goal is to drop a few sizes - maybe down to a 8/10 from a 14/16. Not looking forward to what will likely be a rough week next week, but I know I can do it!