Excuse me men, but I have to ask. I started Atkins the week and a half before I was "due" for the monthly. I lost 5 pounds very quickly, then gained them back. I assumed this was from the general PMS. Then, I was a week late. I know that can be caused by the change in diet, but now that it's over, those 5 pounds are still there, and I am not loosing any more. I suppose my question is this... Is the fact that I started Atkins right before my period the reason that I am having such a difficult time loosing? Is there relief in sight? Should I start all over? (I am actually still doing induction) Is there something I should change to make this go easier???

Erin,
There is an entire forum dedicated to "women's issues", in the Special Interest sections called "Womens Forum". You can get lot's of info there.

Melinda B
240/210/150
Atkins 10/12/03

Favorite Quote: "I don't eat that sh*t, you eat that sh*t?!"

Hi Erin,
Welcome to LCe! I think you should just keep doing what you are doing...induction. Some women do have more "hormonal" influence when TOM comes around, and therefore more water weight gain. Stick with your plan, and see how the rest of induction goes for you. Also, be sure you are drinking the reccomended amounts of water(at least eight 8oz glasses), preferably more to help your body with it's diuretic efforts.
HTH
Shelley

sg
*LC WOLF*

Hi Erin and welcome!

I had a similar problem happen to me. Your body is getting use to the insulin/hormone change if I am correct. I wont go into detail here about me unless you would like to take it to the Womens Issues part BUT I wanted you to know that there are changes taken place. Stick to your plan and keep reading and asking. Make sure you drink lots of water so you dont retain as much.

Blessings,

Carol