Tweet
I started on these boards a day after Induction and was initially greeted, praised and supported by other users. It was wonderful and the empathy was very reassuring. Now that I've posted a few things other than weight loss accomplishments and "I'm new!" posts, I've noticed a very common trend here; attitude and condescension.
I'm sure this is partially my fault, as I've openly indicated that I intend to use the diet to meet goal and than move onto a very active lifestyle and more varied diet than what Atkins stipulates(because I guess that's sacreligious here). But even asking some basic questions seem to be overlooked in favor of focusing on some other part of the post and responding to what is essentially an entirely different topic. For example:
Me: "How will eating a higher protein to fat ratio affect my induction?'
Answer: "Why in the world are you eating that way? You're not on Atkins!"
Was this helpful? No. And I understand that many people here use the Atkins diet as a "way of life"--and yes, it is by definition a "diet"--but please, I implore you when the urge strikes to refrain from the "Read the book!"(I already have) and "If you don't do it for life, you're going to gain all the weight back!" mantras that I often see used to address new member inquiries and ideas about deviating from the standard Atkins formula.
I can't quote entire sections from the book verbatum and I have a plan that doesn't include a lifelone Atkins commitment. But, as of right now, I am following the diet and trying to extend my education. And, while some questions may seem very ignorant to those who have practiced this eating lifestyle for many years, replying to new users in a condescending manner and instructing them to go back to the book like some misbehaved child can be make people feel very uncomfortable and very small.
If you're one of these people, please stop and try to remember what it was like when you first started. I can't imagine that it's gratifying to downtalk someone on a weight loss forum.
I'm sure this is partially my fault, as I've openly indicated that I intend to use the diet to meet goal and than move onto a very active lifestyle and more varied diet than what Atkins stipulates(because I guess that's sacreligious here). But even asking some basic questions seem to be overlooked in favor of focusing on some other part of the post and responding to what is essentially an entirely different topic. For example:
Me: "How will eating a higher protein to fat ratio affect my induction?'
Answer: "Why in the world are you eating that way? You're not on Atkins!"
Was this helpful? No. And I understand that many people here use the Atkins diet as a "way of life"--and yes, it is by definition a "diet"--but please, I implore you when the urge strikes to refrain from the "Read the book!"(I already have) and "If you don't do it for life, you're going to gain all the weight back!" mantras that I often see used to address new member inquiries and ideas about deviating from the standard Atkins formula.
I can't quote entire sections from the book verbatum and I have a plan that doesn't include a lifelone Atkins commitment. But, as of right now, I am following the diet and trying to extend my education. And, while some questions may seem very ignorant to those who have practiced this eating lifestyle for many years, replying to new users in a condescending manner and instructing them to go back to the book like some misbehaved child can be make people feel very uncomfortable and very small.
If you're one of these people, please stop and try to remember what it was like when you first started. I can't imagine that it's gratifying to downtalk someone on a weight loss forum.
[/IMG]
It's whatever works best FOR YOU! Atkins helps me because I need a written plan of do's and don'ts in order for me to stick to it. I live within strict guidelines. It helps me stay focused. I bet a lot of people on Atkins need that. Some people would be better served just watching what they eat. When I do that, I tend to go crazy and overindulge or cheat. 
Comment