Atkins convert maybe ...

[MirandaDebra]

OK this is day 5 for me. Always struggled with calorie controlled diets but that was in the bad old days when it was 1000/day. As an alternative, Atkins has been great in the past - could lose 11lbs in the first week, followed by a 2 or 3 / week in the following weeks but as the change of diet was so extreme it wouldn't be long before potatoes, bread then wine and sweets crept back in. Last week I discovered NHS Weight Loss 12 week plan. 1400 cals/day seems far more sensible and I have to say at day 5 I feel really comfortable with no real cravings yet and surprisingly satisfied and I've lost 6lbs - 30lb left to go. I'd love to include a photo of 'before' but I'm too ashamed about the weight I'm carrying, maybe if I hit my goal of BMI 21, 10st 7lb at 5'10" I may well share 'before' and 'after' photos. Although I'm only just into the BMI overweight range and in a dress size 14, it really hits my confidence - nothing I wear feels like I look nice in it and I just plump for the baggiest jumpers and jeans I can, hide from my husband in big frumpy nightdresses at bedtime and just want to melt into the background whenever I'm out. Sad I know, arguably I'm a mother and grandmother, have a wonderful husband and family and have everything to be grateful for. I just want to lose this weight and feel better about myself - for me they go hand in hand. Good luck to all those facing the same challenge, I know it's not easy.

[nteapea]

I am glad that the 12 week plan is working for you so far. I am sure that when you hit a mini goal you will feel more confident. You are doing so well keep going

[Zest Healthy BMI]

Hi MirandaDebra,

Welcome to the Weight loss NHS forum, and I'm glad you're enjoying the NHS 12 week plan so far. You've made an excellent start, and Congratulations on losing 6 lbs.

I hope you have a lovely weekend, and that you'll join in with anything you like the look of in the forum. Do check out our Pinned posts, and here's to a great week ahead.

Lowcal

[MirandaDebra]

Yes of course but personally I don't normally eat an 'Atkins diet' when I'm not dieting (if that makes sense) and whilst I appreciate there are several phases I never seem to get out of induction. I have found that there is no allowance for the odd cream cake or bar of chocolate without coming off the wagen completely, i.e. out of ketosis. I am beginning to wonder if actually calorie controlled is the answer for me as it allows me to eat the type of foods that I would normally eat but makes me more aware of portion sizes and allows me to eat a wider variety of foods whilst still losing weight. I've always lost weight on Atkins and fast too but as I've not changed my habits as the diet concludes the weight goes back on and I've learned nothing. This is now day 8 for me and I've lost 8 lbs - 28lbs to go. I am feeling really well in myself and enjoying eating potatoes, bread and fruit which I'd never get away with on Atkins.