Hi...

Pretzels aren't on my food list and that brought up a question...for items not on list how do you figure out how much of that item would be equal to 1 starch, protein, etc...

Thanks!

If they're not on the food list, then they're not supposed to be eaten for now. From my understanding, these food will be introduced again when you're in maintenance, after the weight is off. Sorry!

She's right. The program is strict, but that's why it works. If it's not listed, you can't have it. But everything comes back during maintenance.

I think, it there is a particular item that you feel you "need", or would like to have occassionally, you should talk to your counselor at COD and see what they advise. While I agree that this is a very strict diet, I also believe that they could not possibly list all the items that would be possible for us to include. For instance, SHIRATAKI NOODLES, LF DELI Ham that I've seen mentioned here, chili peppers, habernero peppers, etc. This diet is strict but deprivation is not what they strive for. AND if the item you desire can not be included, then perhaps your counselor can make a suggestion for a reasonable substitution.
Just my opinion - and what do I know???

Oh... Pretzels are in my book. 1 hard pretzel, unsalted, is a starch.

Pretzels without salt-yuck! What's the point?

It is probably best that I stick to what is on the program...I was more or less looking for "that urge to have a snack" especially when those around you are...I am starting the program on Monday and have saved 1/2 cup of sugar free icecream for when I have that urge...just basically will have it included in my daily totals...I can't wait to get started on Monday.

I save one starch for a rice cake when I need something "crunchy". I love the caramel for something sweet, the buttered flavored rice cake when I want popcorn, the BBQ ones when I want chips... Okay, you get the idea.
This is the best place to be for LAWL, so you are going to do GREAT!!! I can't wait for your WI's to see your progress!
Blessings,

Thank you Prazteam!

If you have the la weight at home you can ask the online dietican.