Aloha-returning after 7 year absence

[Hawaiibill]

Aloha everyone, after reading through a dozen threads two things are quite apparent. My story is certainly not uncommon and a lot has changed with Atkins since I tried it 7 years ago! This forum itself, stronger support, very specific goals, better recipes, etc all give me hope that I can truly make this part of of my life (style) and not just a "diet" this time around.

I am 51 years old and until the year 1999 was extremely active and surfed several times a week (my weight never exceeded 185-190 lbs) In 99, I was diagnosed with a rare nerve disorder (Trigeminal neuralgia) and spend the next few years taking every pain, anti seizure, etc med the docs prescribed. By 2002 my health had not improved, but weight had shot up 100lbs to 295lbs. so I (along with my wifes strong support) decided to take matters into my own hands. I cut my pain meds by 70% and stopped everything else the docs prescribed completely. I started a program of chiropractors, acupuncture, natural supplements and Atkins.

I lost over 50 lbs in 6 months, but pretty much stayed in the induction phase the whole time. I eventually stopped doing Atkins and my weight leveled off at 245lbs for the next several years. Then two years ago as my health continued to improve I got more active and started surfing and stand up paddle surfing several days a week. My weight got as low as 212lbs and I THOUGHT i was on my way. However, I then quit smoking cigarettes and my weight shot back up to 245-250 where I am at today.

To make matters worse, I started smoking cigs again (I know what a dummy huh?...lol).........so now at close to 250lbs I am worried about both my health with smoking, AND gaining more weight when I quit again.

My previous experience with Atkins was good, but I also know that I need a better plan than just going on the induction phase indefinitely. I have a ton of questions about getting started on the right foot, but I have been around BB's long enough to how to use the "search function".

To get things rolling I am rereading the Atkins book today. Thanks, I look forward to getting to know you guys better as I (re) start my journey.

BTW--my biggest question for now is.......I would like to plan a day to both start Atkins AND quit smoking cigs. Does anyone have feedback/experience on whether that is good/bad idea?...........thanks again!...........Mahalo, Bill

[imagood1]

Re: Aloha-returning after 7 year absence

Hi and welcome back -- Here is a little information I hope will refresh your memory and help get you going again. Stay away from the shakes and bars (they are NOT legal on induction) - eat a variety of foods, get your fats, carbs and protein in daily, drink plenty of pure water (nothing added), take your supplements and exercise. Check the STAC for additional support Second Time Around Club - Atkins Diet. We also have challenges for members to join, some are exercise related and some aren’t. Also start a journal and post your thoughts along the way.

As far as starting Atkins and stopping cigs at the same time....try one at a time...it is doable but make it easier on yourself and at least get through induction (2 weeks only this time please!!) then start on your other addiction. I stopped smoking 3 years ago (on July 4th) so I added weight before I started Atkins....I don't know if I would have done as well stopping carbs and cigs at the same time!! Just my personal opinion, but you ask!!

We have a small group of "over 50's" who post to each other in the 50's forum - we'd love to have you stop by.


If you have more specific answers there are plenty of people who will be willing to help, including myself! Good luck to you.


Check the stickies (information posts) at the top of this page – it’s an easy way to answer questions you may have. http://www.atkinsdietbulletinboard.com/forums/atkins-diet-14-day-induction/

Check the recipe sites also - they are very helpful and will help make your meals so much more enjoyable.

Recipe Sites
http://www.genaw.com/lowcarb/menus.html
http://www.atkinsdietbulletinboard.com/forums/atkins-diet-14-day-induction/58513-never-ending-induction-recipes.html
http://www.atkinsdietbulletinboard.com/forums/atkins-diet-14-day-induction/6807-induction-recipe-basics-more-recipes-added.html

[Hawaiibill]

Re: Aloha-returning after 7 year absence

Thanks Carole! That is very helpful. and yes I did ask on the quitting both at the same time!.....lol.......it does make sense to at least go through the two induction before trying to quit the cigs.

[imagood1]

Re: Aloha-returning after 7 year absence

I remember how I felt when I stopped Bill -- and I wouldn't wish that AND a new way of eating on anyone!!! I had tried before with the Commit lozenges but they made me dizzy (and I'm ditzy enough...LOL) so I waited until the 4th of July, got up - went to the garage where I smoked, threw away the ashtrays, lighter and tore the cigarettes in half (then poured water on them so I wouldn't try to salvage them from the trash later) and walked back in the house....that was the end - I'm not going to lie and say it was easy - because it wasn't - but it's a little like Atkins - once I got through the first few days the cigarettes weren't that important to me anymore. Oh - BTW -- I smoked 3 packs a day and had smoked for around 35 years when I stopped - so it wasn't like I was a half pack a day smoker -- I practically LIVED in the garage...LOL!!!

Good luck to you -- if you need anything let me know!

[chinadoll]

Re: Aloha-returning after 7 year absence

Welcome Bill, I have to say I don't think I could do both at once. When I have bailed for awhile, I even have to start either gym or food first then add the other component a week later, after getting a handle on one. My husband laughs and has me pegged as a true single tasker when it comes to certain areas of my life.

[Hawaiibill]

Re: Aloha-returning after 7 year absence

Carole-makes sense. I smoke a pack a day and sadly have actually quite 4 times in 20 years (I did not start smoking until age 30). Twice I have quit for two years and then went back during times of stress. I would like to think this time is different. At age 51 I am seeing so many in my age group dealing with major health issues and some even passing away. I truly feel like my LIFE, not just health is at stake. Thanks for your help!

chinadoll-.......LOL.........yea, my wife says I am SINGLE task kind of person as well. I also know myself well enough to know that I need a STRUCTURED game plan with specific goals. Some people can just decide to "eat better" and do so, however, I am not one of them!....lol......that is what I liked with Atkins in the past, it was not ambiguous. You know what is legal or can learn by reading labels the exact amount of net carbs in everything you eat. Thanks for the warm welcome ladies. I look forward to finishing the book and getting started asap.


BTW-I did not weigh myself everyday, but another thing that helped was using the keytostix, especially in the beginning. Just seeing the dark purple color confirmed I was doing well and gave me that extra confidence to stay on track. Do you guys still use or recommend those sticks?