Hey Kat. I stayed on Phase 1 for 2 weeks, but started to feel a little weak after that, so went to phase 2 and added some sea salt, (my body was really craving the sodium). All phase 2 is, adding a few more carbs to your diet, not that much more. I pretty much stay in phase 2 now, but go back to phase 1 if my weight starts to creep up. I have never went back to caffeine and only sugar once in awhile. Good luck. I am also a nurse, so with you being a nurse you will be able to tell when your body will need that sodium. Hang in there, the first week and a half is pretty ruff.