I'm back to Atkins after being away for some time. I lost about 80 lbs the first time and have managed to put most of it back on. I have been back on Atkins for about a week and have reached the purple on the ketostix but I haven't dropped a lb. I'm beginning to worry that I'm doing something else wrong. How long do I need to be in the purple before seeing results?

Emerald
Welcome to the forum.

Sometimes when there's no loss with purple sticks it can mean you're burning dietary fat.
But I think you just need to wait a bit longer.
Your stats sound like mine. In 1998 thru 2000 I lost over 80 pounds low carbing. from 2000 until I started this round of LC in Feb 2003 I gained back 70. hurts doesn't it. I found that I didn't lose as fast this time as the last time. I hear that's often the case. If in a week or so when you enter OWL you still haven't lost, post a few days menus, make sure to include portion sizes. Using www.fitday.com or other food tracker will give you a nice overview of carbs, calories, protein, fat and fiber. It even has a nutritional analysis and an exercise log area. But please stay with us and do let us know your progress.
Good Luck
Rob

What Rob says.

Are you exercising? Muscle weighs more than fat, so as your body adjusts you might not initially see weight loss.

If you're in purple, you're probably doing things right. Patience is called for. There are any number of things that can make the scale not move the direction you want, but if you're losing fat, the actual weight number will eventually reflect that.

***********************
"Sometimes I think you have to march right in and demand your rights, even if you don't know what your rights are, or who the person is you're talking to. Then on the way out, slam the door."

Thanks everyone. I really needed the encouragement. I was getting so frustrated about not losing. I am exercising about an hour a day and taking in less than 10 carbs on most days.
Rob, may I ask how fast you are losing weight now that you are back to LC? I think I need to get a more realistic view for this time around.
Thanks again.

I think your carbs are to low....if you bump it to 20 you may see a loss sooner...your body could be in starvation mode!

To get to the rainbow you must first pass through the rain!

I believe Junie is right! You need to up your carbs! I think we all believe less is better, but it isn't! Try to come as close to 20 carbs as you can. Don't forget to drink you water!

Have no fear, we are here, to support 1lb at a time...

222/214/150
Started Atkins 8/19/2003