Consequences of Changing Plans

[Kelsie]

Hi Everyone!

I've had success in the past with Atkins so I know it works and recently (the past 3 weeks) I have been on a low calorie diet and have lost 13 pounds, so I know this works.

While on Atkins, I always craved fruit so I decided this time to try a different approach but I’m missing items you can have on Atkins. Also for me Atkins requires far less time thinking and planning what you can and can not eat. It's funny and really boils down to wanting what you can't have I guess

What I was wondering is if anyone every switched their plan mid-stream and had success or failures?

What I don't want to do is stall because of the switch.

Any advice or personal experience would be appreciated.

 

[lovetoscrap]

I don't know that I have advice specifically on the idea of a midstream switch, but have you looked at South Beach? It is very similar to Atkins in simplicity and concept but allows more carbs and focuses on lower fat choices. I think it would be the easiest "mid stream" switch for you if you have been doing Atkins.

The first Phase of South Beach is very Similar to Atkins but with lower fat choices. Then you can add in things like fruits in the second phase, but in small amounts. Look for it in the Library or at the book store. I saw the SB book in hardback at the major book stores for pretty cheap (about $6) in the last few weeks. I think you would have good results switching to that with very little consequensences, and not much change in mindset, except more freedom!

ETA: OOOPPPS Just reread your OP and realize you are NOT on Atkins now, just a low cal. You still might want to look at SB. I think there is always a chance you could have a stall if you switch, but if you are going to the first Phase of Atkins you usually lose quite a bit. As long as you keep drinking water and get a bit of excercise in you would probably be okay, but don't be discouraged if you don't lose for a week or two. Keep at it and I am guessing that a stall would only last for about 2 weeks. You didn't gain it all in a few weeks, you won't lose it in a few weeks.

 

[LuluLovesDisney]

I think switching plans is great for the body because the human body tends to "get used" to certain things. This is why a "new" diet will produce better results. However, psychologically, switching a diet, esp. one that have dissimilar allowable foods lists, can be very difficult. It can produce uncertainty and encourage overly permissible food choices.

I've switched plans many times. I've been on and off a diet for 19 years now! I lost 30 lbs. last year, gained about 10 back and now I am on the long and winding road again.

IME, this is what works - following one plan 100%. Certain modifications are helpful (particularly finding items you like and will enjoy and finding a balance of carbs and protein that works for you personally) but you can't follow two or more at once.

What doesn't work is when I've used my extensive dieting knowledge to undermine myself. "Bacon and heavy cream are okay on Atkins, so I can have it. The bread is whole grain, that's okay on SB, a whole cup of fruit is one WW point, so that's good, too" and I slowly, rationally destroy myself.

Atkins is a magical plan in some ways, you can lose weight very fast but it really only works that way if you can really stay away from carbs. Some people also hit a plateau and then have to switch plans. This is what happened to me. I lost 35 lbs. on Atkins and then no matter what I did, fat fast, Induction, whatever, I just stayed the same. I, too, missed fruit and cereal and milk and I just abandoned it. I can't say for sure what would have happened.

If you're doing low cal, I would really just try to emphasize the proteins, deemphasize sugars and starches, enjoy the fresh fruits and veggies of the summer and not focus on what you can't have. You're right. It is very hard to say to yourself that you can't have something that you *could* have had yesterday or a week ago. What works for me is telling myself that I can have it, I just choose not to because it won't make me feel good after I have it.

I am currently doing Weight Watchers, but with one modification. I am allowed a certain amt. of points a day and at a mtg. they gave us a way of determining our perfect balance of protein and carbs. Basically, some people do better using more points on carbs, some do better using more points on protein and some are right down the middle. I try hard to stay on the protein side of the road. Also, after reading about the benefits of a raw lifestyle, I am trying to include something raw with every meal - a piece of fruit at breakfast, a salad with dinner and celery sticks alongside my lunch.

Anyway, I just wanted to let you know you're not alone and that it is not easy. If I can help at all, let me know. I am on the same journey with you!

Lots of luck!

 

[Tiger Lily 03]

Good for you to get back at it.

I love what Lulu has offered. It is inspiring.

Keep on keepin' on. Do try to focus on the positive and not use that "D" word. Makethose healthy choices and watch the portions.

 

[Kelsie]

Thank you Ladies!

I have thought about it today and I'm staying with what's currently working.

 

[Tiger Lily 03]

Make sure you come back and let us know how you are doing.