Well, I didn't go off caffeine yet, though I have gone to a 50/50 mix. Not sure about my cheese carb count yesterday though, so I may count today as day 1. Haven't weighed myself and doubt I will for a while--I'm afraid of that scale. I'm going to go with "fit" of clothes at first, I guess.

I may have given the impression that I'm looking for a quick pounds off rush, but that's not actually the case given my overriding concern with avoiding diabetes.

I guess my goal is to get through these two weeks without major screwup and then see what happens.

Suji

Welcome!!

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Welcome. Anyone who is doing this way of eating for their health is doing something really good for themselves. Even though I have a long way yet to go, I'm healthier than I've been in years, mainly due to low carb. You're going to find lots of health improvements, too. Keeping diabetes at bay is just one of those benefits.

I hope you find lots of encouragement here.

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Nita

Thanks, youse guys.
I'm not really sure how often to post here to feel part of the community, but I probably won't blather about every little thing. Having done this before, I kind of know what to expect. One different thing (so far) is that I've only had a minor headache when I was expecting to really feel yuck. Maybe it was from going cold turkey off coffee last time-dunno.

Do any of you also post in other LC sites? I used to post on a hugely active Atkins site a few years back, but don't remember which one. They had progress and before/after photos.

I suppose in a estimate of my starting stats as mentioned 5'10"--not truly "exercise" active; guesstimate over 200 lbs-maybe as much as 220. Wear a 20 right now. As with many women, it's from the butt to the waist mostly, but adipose everywhere. My ultimate goal would be 140 since I'm big boned apparently. (I haven't been below 135 since I was in junior high and at 30 I was a size 9 at smallest and too thin.)

I've seen lots of women posting who are in their 20-s and 30's who have lost quite a bit. Realistically, could I expect the same sort of results at 50 on Atkins as these sprites?

Suji, age has been a major factor in my super-slow weight loss this time around. I have done Atkins twice before, once in my 30s, once in my early 40s, and both times I lost fast. This time it's taken a long, long time, and I've hit a major stall. I am now having to watch not only carbs, but also calories. I use Fitday to track what I'm eating, in order to keep it within my limits. Otherwise, I mentally calculate, and end up eating way too much. I am 54, I've lost about 75-80 lbs, but keep bouncing in a 5-8 lb range. I also sabotaged my plan when we went on vacation a couple of weeks ago, and I'm still trying to lose that gain. I still have 100+ lbs to lose, closer to 150 if I want to be where I really should be.

Everyone's metabolism is different, but as we age, we tend to slow down. What we both probably need is more exercise. I find it difficult due to some arthritis issues, but I do try to be less of a couch potato than I used to be.

Ah, to be in my 20s again, but to have the wisdom and determination I have now! It would be one dynamite combination!

I have lurked in other low carb sites, but this one is the most comfortable for me. I find it easier to navigate, and I get better feedback here.

Perhaps we need to start a 50+ thread, specifically to address the needs of the more mature lcers!

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Nita

I think that's a great idea! A 50 and over forum/thread would be really helpful. I'm choosing 50 since, --gulp--there's the benchmark of first receiving AARP mail.

Yes, I know I ought to exercise way more. I'm hoping to lose enough on induction plan to make it comfortable to do more than walk rapidly. My heartrate really zooms up if I over-exert with this extra weight and I get dizzy and labored breathing-very out of shape.

Welcome, any step toward Low Carb is the best step!!
Glad to have you here!
Keep us posted on your progress! (helpful hint: drink your water!!)

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"Summer of PQ"
19 pounds down....
Atkins