Hi, I have been on Atkins for three weeks. I lost 14 pounds the first two weeks. When I weighed today, I showed a 10 lb gain. My ketostix are still purple though. I have been on a sulfa antibiotic this week for an ear infection. Has anyone else had this type of thing happen? Thanks for you help.

hi catfancy,

Just wanted to say that I am owned by two sweet gentle cats meself

Yes, unfortunately having an infection can cause blood sugar and insulin to rise, and the sulfa antibiotics can cause water retention. It's just temporary, and should disappear once the course of medication is finished. Although at this point in time you should be moving on to OWL, or phase 2, it might be helpful for you to stay at Induction level of carbs, 20g, while you're on the meds. This should help to keep the blood sugar and insulin stable ... especially if your carbs are in the form of salads and high-fiber lowcarb veggies. Be sure to drink lots of water, and cut back on the salt and salty foods like bacon and cheese .. this will help to minimize any fluid retention.

I hope you're feeling better soon

Doreen