thnks everyone for replying so quick. i have now read a book The New High Protein Diet by Charles CLark. it gave me loads of info, and i think it might not be as strict as atkins. i am doing ok, although i couldnt resist having a thorntons chocolate(dont know if you get that in the US, but its bloody good)today at work. i am finding the sweet cravings the worst so far. have been eating sugar free jelly by the bucket load. PLEASE no-one tell me i cant eat that, or quite frankly i will go in a huff. speak to you all soon, best wishes, annie x