Hi all,

I’m new here so I apologize if this has been posted already. I was wondering if anyone has done ideal protein without packs or substitutions. Just with normal food? I did IP last year and lost 150lbs, still have about 90lbs to go but can’t afford to do IP and wanted to look outside alternatives as where I live is very very limited for alternative shopping options. I spoke with my old coach from IP who broke down the protein, fat and carbs intake on my basic days on IP. If I just added those amounts in meat and veggies would I not achieve the same results?
Thanks all who provide their input 😁

Hi Kay.

There's a forum for Ideal protein https://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/ide...tein-diet-236/
It's pretty quite lately, but I think you will get some good input.

Here is the most active thread:
https://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/ide...r-basis-2.html

I did IP, just the packets, and also buying non IP packets that were less costly from NashuaNutirtion.com. Now that you know the macros, you could pick comparable products. Many of theirs were identical to IP, otherwise you pick the ones that fit IP.

I think you could get the same results eating real food. And maybe you'll enjoy it more. There are tons of wonderful low carb, IP-compliant recipes out there, and also here on 3FC, on the IP forum.

Huge Congratulations to you for 150 down! And best wishes for your continued success!

You don't need packets to lose weight. If you buy food from the supermarket, and compare prices to make sure you get a good deal, you can eat healthy for about $20-30 per week. Ideal Protein costs about $15 per day ($105 per week) according to the Ideal Protein website.

The cheapest healthy protein sources are probably eggs and beans. Chicken breast is also not a bad deal.
For vegetables, spinach, broccoli, and carrots are usually not too expensive. Check both the produce section and the frozen section, and compare prices to make sure you get a good deal.

I can't tell you how much I admire you for sticking on that that long. Wonderful amount of weight loss. When I was on the plan I just bought large whey protein powder In chocolate and vanilla great for breakfast can make pancakes with it. Also butterscotch pudding and soups from Diet Direct which are great with free shipping and great customer service plus much lower prices than Ideal. If you like you could just use whey protein shakes with all your salads vegetables and lean meats.