Group Forum: Induction - Alcohol question

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Joined: Jul 12
Posts: 60

Posted: 13 Jul 2012, 14:57
I've read Atkins New Diet Revolution cover to cover. I have it thoroughly drilled into my head that there is to be NO alcohol consumption during Induction. That's not difficult for me in the least, except this coming Saturday night. I'm attending an event that I've looked forward to for a very, very long time. I would really like to enjoy 2 glasses of wine, or 2 liquor drinks, or 2 beers...or something.

So give it to me straight. If I do drink the liquid sin, how much am I going to throw off my Induction success after my 1st week? If it will destroy my entire 2nd week, then I won't touch it. However, if we're looking at a 1-2 day bobble, then I'm okay with that. I have so much control right now that I'm not sure how badly it would effect me at all. Have any of you had a little bit of alcohol during your first 2 weeks of Induction, and if you did, was the outcome as disastrous and devastating as Dr. Atkins makes it seem? Or did he just like to scare the pants off of people for his own personal gratification? Laughing
2007 highest weight: 298
Started FatSecret 7/9/12: 278
8/13/12: 264

Joined: Aug 11
Posts: 1

Posted: 24 Sep 2012, 10:37
If it is absolutely a must, I think you can have it (I know the book says no, but...) I have had it before, but reduced my calories for the day (probably not a great idea and very unhealthy). I still lost weight the day after but went up the second day, then back to steady loss. Keep these things in mind:
1. The body burns alcohol first before any other source of energy, so fat burn is delayed
2. Alcohol will likely lead to water retention, which may lead to the resulting increase in weight
3. Wine has carbs, so if you must - have spirits (I have personally faired better with spirits).
4. Alcohol makes me very hungry for carbs - I hope it is not the same for you, but you might find it more diffcult to stick to the right foods the day you drink and the day after.

Alcohol is a big issue for me, as I am currently addicted and can guarantee that you won't lose a pound if you drink on a regular basis regardless of the food and exercise, so be careful. I wish you success!

Joined: Apr 11
Posts: 87

Posted: 24 Sep 2012, 12:12
I experience the same things that madfatcat describes when I have a drink or two. My thought is that if you are willing to lose a few days for this special event, then go ahead! Be prepared, stay focused before, during and after the drinks.


Joined: Mar 13
Posts: 5

Posted: 19 Apr 2013, 18:58
The book says that you just don't lose weight until the alcohol is out of your body because you burn alcohol calories instead of fat. Just postpones weight loss.

Joined: May 13
Posts: 1

Posted: 12 Jun 2013, 11:56
If you want to have 1-2 drinks during your induction phase, stick to clear spirits (like vodka, clear rum) and either club soda or diet coke. Also drink 1 glass of water in between each alcohol drink. Wine will throw off your ketosis. Also, anything you put in your mouth today will not show up on the scale for 2 days (exactly as Madfatcat and Mamikimba have said), so remember that when in this process. If you go off plan, and don't notice a change on the scale the next day some people (myself included) tend to think "Oh... I can handle this" and then before you know it you are out of control! Smile

Have fun at your event! An

Joined: Jul 11
Posts: 132

Posted: 07 Sep 2013, 13:14
I agree with what everyone is saying here. I chose to drink some alcohol yesterday, not because of a special event, more because I am addicted. I realize that during Induction you must be incredibly strict, but you have to be able to live your life. If you completely deprive yourself at this event you will likely not stick with this. I say, this was planned, you deserve it, just don't make it a habit, say every Saturday.
"He who fails to plan is planning to fail" -Winston Churchill