Hello,

I stumbled across this forum when I was doing some research on the Atkins diet plan. I have heard many good things about it, and some bad things as well. Some people I know are on it and have lost weight, so I am thinking of starting the plan. I was impressed by many of the before and after photos of some of the success stories Congrats to all of you ..

Currently, I weigh about 230 pounds I don't seem to gain weight, and I don't seem to lose weight.. I eat fairly healthy and I don't overeat much.. I guess my main problem is that I don't excercise much and I do eat lots of carbs. I do not eat red meat or fish, and I love veggies and fruits (mostly berries and apples). I also love yogourt and cheese..

So, my first question is, if my diet now consists mainly of chicken, turkey, shrimp, veggies, berries, yogourt and cheese, can I be successful at this plan? I can't stand mayo or butter and I rarely use oil. Are these things manditory to eat?? The thought of eating really high fatty foods doesn't sit with me that well, but I am willing to increase my daily intake a bit...Will I have to begin eating red meats?

Also, I was wondering if anyone could recommend a good book for me to start off with? I know there are many Atkins books, but I'm not sure which one to get! lol ... I would like one that explains the diet and what I can and cannot eat, what veggies and fruits are good, and which also provides info on how low carbs and high fats effect the body...

One more question :P Does the Atkins diet elminite bread entirely?? Or do people on this diet occassionally have bread? Is there something available that can replace bread? Like, if I want a peanut butter sandwich, what can I put the peanut butter on?

Thanks for any help / advise you can give me!

take care,

elyssa