weakness when starting atkins

[steflou]

I am getting ready to start back on Atkins-I tried last weekend but got really weak (stayed in bed all weekend). Does anyone have any tips for overcoming weakness during induction? Also, what is the general time frame for the weakness to last during induction? I do get headaches but just take advil. Thanks. ps-I am on vac. 4/13-17 so it will be a good time to start back.:confused:

[Mitra]

Protein Power allows about 40g carb per day (7-10 per meal/snack) during the Intervention Phase. There isn't an Atkins-style Induction phase. You might find that the slightly higher carb levels help you to avoid some of the side effects. Otherwise general tips are to drink plenty of water (which helps to flush out the ketones, so might help with the headache), and to supplement with potassium (to replace what's lost through the diuretic effects of reducing carb intake - this should help with the weakness).

Most people find the adjustment just takes a few days, but it can be a couple of weeks or so for some people. It seems very variable, but it's not normally so severe that you have to stay in bed. Make sure you are actually eating, and getting enough protein.

[maxlharris]

Potassium helps. 2 days to a week and it should pass. It's called the Carb Flu if you want to google for more information.

[steflou]

Someone on livinlavidalowcarb forum said the Eades say to take a potassium supplement the first few days. They say your kidneys excrete alot of urine and along with that potassium. I am starting back low carbing monday (after Easter) and am on vac. next week so I won't be as stressed!

[Karole]

Do you have the book? There is so much info that you might need to read and I would think it would be hard to follow the plan if you don't have the basics down. Hope you feel better soon.

[Angie1313]

Potassium helps. 2 days to a week and it should pass. It's called the Carb Flu if you want to google for more information.


I did alot of the things the book told me to but I also found myself eating bananas more than I normally would.