Hi,
Thanks for the advice & suggestions!
My issues are definately complicated, and I realize I didn't give you all very much information to go on.
I am actually a counselor for juvenile offenders, and I have a degree in Sociology & Psychology - so I tend to over-analyze myself and it helps to have your much more objective perspectives. I am also very aware of my problem with using food as a positive reward, and also as a comfort when I am not feeling good. I am really trying to work on this issue, as I don't want to pass it on to my son.
I am currently seeing a psychologist, and I've been in therapy for years. In the past I've mostly just worked on changing my behaviors, but we both (psy & me) agree that there is a chemical component for me and I've begun trying some medications to deal with my anxiety - so far prosac, serzone & buspar have all sent me into higher levels of aggitation & anxiety than I've ever felt before . . . a big part of the reason why I'm starting to get migraines again (I have eliminated my food allergens & for the past 3 months have been doing great - only minor migraines.) and why I having trouble doing induction. Maybe I'm taking on too much at once.
I'm starting paxel today . . . at for now, I guess I'm going to continue to try to get my carbs. down around 20g - and just count today as day 5.
Anyway - thanks again for all the suggestions. From your advice I can see how you both have made Atkins work for you. About your question Colin - I am commited only to eating healthy, healing my body and low-carbing . . . so I may or may not end up doing the Atkins plan. If I can make it work & lose some weight I'll use it, otherwise I'll probably work to keep my carbs. as low as I can comfortable do so - maybe around 45g a day, 15g or less per main meal.
I am feeling a bit better today (buspar is working its way out of my system now,) and I really appreciate your advice and support.
Take care,