I (even during induction, I know bad girl) never gave up my wine. I lost 10 lbs the first two weeks on Atkins so it didn't slow me (or not much anyway). I have however given up all alcohol for the month of January because I was DRUNK too many times (like 4) between Thanksgiving and New Year's. I also restarted induction because I did have "a cheat a week" during that period and want a fresh start so I can achieve my goal. I have found that I need to be careful - drunk more quickly, but not on my usual amounts, just if it's more. I drink about 2 drinks (be it wine or a vodka martini or vodka and soda) 2-3 times per week and have lost fairly steadily. About 5 lbs per month average. So in MHO it did not stall me, maybe i could have lost faster, but I love my wine and 5 lbs a month is worth it. YMMV