I too have a family member that is in the medical field. She is constantly telling me how horrible a low carb life style is for the heart. What she wasn't prepared for the first time we spoke of this was the fact that I have read the Atkins book in it's entirity. The example that really struck me that I found in the book was the reference to cavemen. They were not exposed to refined sugars and carbs so saw few problems with obesity and diabetes. I also remember the point that was made that there is a direct coorelation between the induction of said foods and the obesity/ diabetes epidemic throughout the world. Although I think it's pitiful that anyone should have to defend a diet that is working for them, I do believe that being educated on your diet of choice will fend off the naysayers.

I have lots of recipes that call for guar or Xanthan. Where can I find this? One cook book that I have recommends that you keep it in a shaker near the stove to thinken sauces without the use of flour.

The raspberry shake sounds even better than the vanilla ones I have been drinking in the morning! I will definatley try it this weekend. I'm glad to hear they are not used as meal replacement. I thought my hunger a few hours after having my shake was due to my incredible appetite ( my appetite is an uphill battle). I will try a cheese stick to hold off the hunger until lunch time. Have you made your raspberry shakes in advance? I get up really early (4:30 am) for work and I can't imagine having to run the blender at that hour. Perhaps I can mix it up the night before?

Are the Atkins shakes intended to be used as meal replacement or a snack? One in the morning for breakfast doesn't seem to curb my appetite until lunch. Maybe it will just take a few days to get used to.

Welcome Dee! You can definatley leave the dinner table full on the Atkins Diet. Best of luck you and the hubby!

It is so easy to give into temptation of the dessert table that you mention. Especially if you do not have people around you that are aware of and supportive of your decision to be on a diet such as this one. Avoiding situations like the one you spoke of is not an option unless you plan on becoming a hermit, and that's not healthy. It is mind over matter. You are stronger than your cravings. At parties, I sit in a room that is not near the food. The out of sight out of mind method. Plus you don't have to watch others eat what you really want, but know you shouldn't have. Cheating sets me back a few steps. It's easier to stay away from carbs when you aren't teasing yourself with small bits. Good job on avoiding the dessert table!

The dinner went really well. I suggested an alternate restaurant and they took me up on it. My will power wasn't ready for the Mexican restaurant challenge. I got to have the lean meat and veggies I have come to love. Thanks for all the advice. Who knew there were Atkins things at a place where carbs rule? Thanks again!!

I have a meeting on Thursday night with a vendor from work. They all want to go to a fancy Mexican restaurant, which will make it extremely hard to stick to my diet. I know I can be good, but I don't want to have to explain why I skipped the rice and beans. Would it be rude if I suggested another restaurant? I could do much better at a steak place. This vendor only comes to town once or twice a year and loves this Mexican place. I feel bad. What to do??

I drink vodka and water with lemon. The first one is hard to get down unless you pay the price for a little better vodka. Grey Goose is the best!