I've had a wonderful time on CAD/CALP. I'm an Atkins refugee -- only lost 2 lbs in 5 weeks on Atkins induction -- and I did not gain weight by switching to CAD. Rather, I lost fairly quickly at first, and then it slowed down to slow but sure. After 2 weeks on the Entry Plan of CAD, I switched to CALP where you can add in variations according to metabolism, physical problems, age, etc..

You don't have to do low-fat on CAD/CALP, but you can, and still lose weight! Low-fat Atkins just doesn't work. If you balance the RM as the book says, and you make sure to eat it within the 1 hour time limit (not one minute more!), you won't get an insulin spike. Insulin is the hormone that causes fat storage. And that's how CAD/CALP works -- no insulin surge, no fat storage!

The other meal or two look very similar to Atkins, but be certain to get the list of craving-reducing foods. These are slightly different than the allowable foods on Atkins. If the food you want for CMs isn't on The List, save it for RM.

Be certain to take the Carb Addicts' test, available in a Stickie on the CAD/CALP forum. If you pass (which most low-carbers do), then this WOE should work for you.

We each have different bodies and different metabolisms, so don't be afraid to try a different eating plan. If it doesn't work for you, you can always go back to Atkins or check out a completely different plan, such as Protein Power (I know a lot of people who lost a lot of weight on that plan, too!).

Stop by my journal any time.

There is a common misconception (caused, in my opinion by CAD being not that well written - lots of confusion) that on CAD you don't have to balance the Reward meal. You do. On page 118 - 120 it is explained, they even include a pie chart!

But, as we cadettes all know.. balance is the ideal, not necessarily the norm. When I first started there was no balance.. in fact there were whole food groups missing entirely. It was months before a vegetable made an appearance at one of my RMs. And I did still lose weight very steadily.

Now, I strive for more balance. I really find I feel better if I include a salad or LC veggies of some type and quantity with my RM. Not to say that I am perfectly balanced. My Rms are almost always still carb-heavy. But, I'm working on it

CAD works by controlling your insulin, and by the time you get to your RM (which is usually dinner, but not always) your body isn't prepared for a big onslaught of carbs, so doesn't release much insulin. But you have to respect the hour limit, or it won't work. Also you have to be diligent about not letting any carbs sneak in during the rest of the day or your RM is just a big ole binge!

It is a great program. I personally think the Hellers are geniuses. I get to enjoy some of my favourite foods every day .. which keeps me loving this 'diet', and still lose weight at a steady, healthy pace. What more could I ask for?

I hope you like it too!