Newbie from New Zealand

[Lilac_Butterflies]

Hi all..greetings from New Zealand. Not sure if there are any other Kiwi's on the boards or Australians....

I am about to embark on a huge life change with the support of my partner and family.

I am 42 with 3 children. I was diagnosed with PCOS around 9 years ago and have struggled with my weight for years, now considered pre diabetic as part of insulin resistance. I have high blood pressure as well. I haven't weighed myself recently but think I have around 150+ pounds to lose, the scales are coming out the morning I start.

I left an abusive marriage about 4 years ago and have tackled a lot of emotional issues from that and also childhood in the time since my marriage ended. Depression has also been an obstacle for me.

Now I am ready to take my life back!!!

I am in a loving long term relationship with a very loving and supportive man and together we are going to tackle my weight problem. He suggested Atkins and although I was initially hesitant I think he may be right. I haven't started induction yet. I am getting together the information ( I don't have any of Atkin's books) I need to make sure I do induction right and make sure I have the right food in the pantry to begin.

I guess thats me in a nutshell...

Anna

[fennela]

Re: Newbie from New Zealand

Dear Lilac,

Welcome.
I was diagnosed with PCOS about 12 years ago, but actually had all the symtoms since about 12. I am 44 now. I had a sudden 70pound weight gain.
I do not know how it is for other PCOS people but I know for me Atkins has been wonderful. I can not handle any of the meds so my only control is diet.
I have tried all the diets and this one feels right.
I am 6 weeks in and staying on induction. phase 1.


Here are a couple of things you need to know.
For the first 2 weeks:
You are going to get headaches, I mean Oh God kill me head aches because you are coming off caffine, carbs and sugar. This will pass and you have to be strong.
You are going to be constipated.
You will get dizzy spells.
You will get cramps in your legs, my calves killed me. I went on the boards and they advised me to take potassium pills, which really helped.
Also you are going to feel really tired like you have been run over by a truck.
Your breath is going to change in this adjustment time, drinking water helps.

Sorry if this scares you but if the family knows what to expect they can step in and do their bit.

2 weeks in you are going to start to feel GREAT. Lots of energy, bouncy, your brain is clearer and woow look at the scales.

Goodluck

[Lilac_Butterflies]

Re: Newbie from New Zealand

Thanks Fennela

Nice to know in advance what's ahead of me and to hear of someone elses experiences with PCOS and Atkins

Am looking forward to beginning..excited and raring to go!!

Anna

[MorningGlory]

Re: Newbie from New Zealand

Hi Anna...welcome to the boards! Congrats on your good attitude and your determination to tackle this way of eating the right way by getting the book. Educating yourself is a great way to take control over what you're doing and why....best of luck and please post any questions you may have.

MorningGlory