Big challenge

[Desertthorn]

I am sure there are plenty of challenges to low-carbing, but what it your personal "biggest" challenge.

[cmcole]

Being afraid to "up" the carbs, calories or change the menu.
Sort of the "if it's not broke don't fix it" mentality or something.

Perhaps it's just getting into a rut.

Travelling across the country was a large challenge in some areas, especially when we were encountering weekends or holidays, when many places were closed. Also, if we happened to stop in places that were way out in the boonies, choices were very limited.

As an emergency measure, I had put a few bars and pre-mixed shakes in the vehicle. I didn't have to resort to them often, but when the only choice was continental breakfast, sometimes they were a lifesaver.

Haven't indulged in them since that time, though. When I have real food, I don't get tempted to have fake stuff.

[Nancy in PA]

I don't like having to measure foods and count carbs. That has been a challenge to me.

Nancy

[Desertthorn]

Nancy, you will find on this plan that soon you will know what a cup of veggies looks like and you will no longer have to measure stuff. Happy low carbing.

[Peterlock]

I think the expense is fairly significant. Most people eat high carb high sugar foods because their inexpensive - especially compared to good quality meats, fish,cheese and produce.

I think the added expense is definitely worth it, it's an investment that pays off in the long run. But for a carnivore like myself good quality organic grade beef is expensive i.e.: rib roast $9.00 a pound - it adds up. We don't always splurge on top shelf, but still it's expensive compared to how we used to eat.

Supplements are another expense, I just finished reading Dr Atkins Vita Nutrient Solution and recommend it to anyone, it's the perfect compliment to DANDR and the information is remarkable and offers a lifetime of worth and value.

But following Dr. Atkins suggested vita nutrient intake isn't cheap - I've spent $400 over the past 3 weeks on vitamins and supplements. But then again I've saved about $600 on prescription medication so I'm ahead $200...well so much for my math skills.

Peter ha

[cmcole]

I do agree that the way I used to stock up (like when pasta was on sale for $0.98 a package) is certainly different than my grocery shopping habits lately.

Additionally, the supplements really add up, too.

I just went out the other day and stocked up on things I was low on, because I'm packing little zipper baggies with my supplements in preparation for Basic Training. So, that is one expense that will be noticed moreso as I prepare, rather than just having to get them as they run out (I cannot guarantee their availability where I'm going, although the Sgt says the Canex should have vitamins). I didn't want to argue with her that I probably take more than the Canex can provide, so I just let it drop.

[kay_508]

My mother always told me to spend extra money on healthy food. "If you don't spend it on the food, you'll wind up spending it on diet centers and gimmicks" she would say. She was certainly right.
I guess Dr. Atkins taught her well---she was his patient many years ago.

[Pau]

getting bored ...... if you get bored ...... cravings start ......

[KRemo]

Two things are hardest for me. Resisting cravings for my most favorite & ultimate no no foods. (Chocolate frosted chunky brownies & champagne)

And the 2nd is the cost. It's MUCH cheaper to buy junk food. But the price you pay in the end is much more costly. :nod

[Desertthorn]

My mother always told me to spend extra money on healthy food. "If you don't spend it on the food, you'll wind up spending it on diet centers and gimmicks" she would say. She was certainly right.
I guess Dr. Atkins taught her well---she was his patient many years ago.

You have a smart mother Kay.....

For those of you who find the expense of doing Atkins a problem, down in food/chat there are a lot of ideas on a post called Atkins on a Budget.