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I've done the Atkins diet and lost a good amount of weight. I got my wedding dress pre-Atkins, and by the time I went for my alterations I was swimming in it
It is normal around day 3-4 of induction to start really craving the carbs. Your body keeps 2 days' worth of glucose around, and you've burned through that. Just stick to your guns, and you'll end up in ketosis and burning fat.
During induction, stay away from anything processed (this includes Atkins shakes, bars, etc). Stick to meats, eggs, cheese, and salad veggies. Save the treats for after induction.
The Atkins plan has the effect of suppressing hunger. It's important that you eat at mealtimes even if you're not hungry - even if it's just a small amount.
Also during induction, drink only water if you can; if you can't, then at least stay away from caffeine, alcohol, and anything with sugar or aspartame. After induction, you may find that you can drink caffeine and/or alcohol without affecting your weight loss, but if you stop losing - stop drinking. Whatever phase of Atkins you're in, though, try to drink at least 64oz of water per day.
EXERCISE - or your body will burn muscle along with the fat.
Good luck!
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