Even Dr. Atkins said that his diet was never meant for you to give up occasional treats forever. However, he did indicate that those treats for special occasions should be reasonable and not to go overboard.

I've been on maintenance for the school year (3.5 weeks left, yeeaahh!) and I have indulged on special occasions with no permanent weight gain.

One thing I have noticed though, and you should be prepared for, is that when I do have >150 g of carbs or so (I usually eat 50-70 g) I get bad leg cramps a few hours later. I take K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+ routinely and take extra if I do eat a carb meal. Also drink plenty of water.

Good luck, and happy birthday.

Joan