Hey everyone,

I need some advice. I was on Ideal Protein about 2 years ago and lost 30 lbs. Then I had a difficult surgery, never phased off, didn't like my coach, and gained it back. So I tried to get back to it several times without a coach and haven't been too successful.

My gym is having a 90 day challenge, and competition is a really great motivator for me. So I wonder, is it best to work out light at the gym and stick to the ideal exercise protocol with a new coach or should I go to a low fat low carb diet and focus more on the exercise? What is going to be the best option for my future to have a healthy body weight bc I am ready to see about lab band options if this doesn't work.

My Challenges
-My exercise is limited after surgery.
-I'm have never really been successful on a low fat diet.
-Ideal Protein has been the only diet where I have lost successfully over time.
-I feel like with Ideal Protein the weight comes back on quick if you are not careful.
-After Ideal Protein and being a low carber for so long, my body seems to reject carbs and I gain so quickly when eating them- It's frustrating!!

Any advise is much appreciated!!!!

No advice needed -- you're answering all your own questions! Whatever you choose, it looks like carbs are what is causing you problems. Any "low fat" plan usually means the fat is removed, and carbs put in (check out a "low fat yogurt"= scary!)
If you're here at an IP forum, you know what choice WE have all made. You have to do what you think works for you. You already know you can be successful here with little exercise. If you need healing, go IP. If you're supposed to be exercising to regain your strength, then think about how intense your workouts will be. IP doesn't recommend exertive exercise.
Either way, we're here so check in and let us know how you're doing!

The reality with ANY diet is that you have to change your eating habits in the long term. You will regain the weight from ANY weight loss if you go back to eating the way you were before - that's what got you fat in the first place! So just do whatever you feel is best for you - IP or otherwise - but keep in mind that you have to follow the plan, the phase-off AND the maintenance rules no matter WHAT diet you follow.

Good luck!