You can definately lose inches before the scale moves. I know because it always happens to me since I have been on this WOL. Clothes get looser then a few weeks later the scale will move a few pounds. Then the cycle will repeat itself.

It seems the more of a carb addict you were before this WOL, the greater chance you will have on loosing inches before pounds. I know I was definately protien deficient before Atkins. Same may be for your friend as well.