Hi inLOKO
Welcome to the group: it's great to see you here
I can relate to your fear of starting CD ... it's a scary prospect not eating isn't it. I'ts so radical and 'different' from the usual type of diet that it's daunting even thinking of committing to it. It seems to fly in the face of everything that's drummed into us and that IS scary.
When I first began on March 24th, I started by saying I'd give it just a couple of weeks. I think that's so I wouldn't have egg on my face if I couldn't hack it and had to throw the towel in. That was over 5 months ago though (and if I can do it, ANYONE can!

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My CDC is lovely - and remember, all CDCs have used Cambridge themselves so they know what it's like to do this diet. They don't sit and proble you about your lifestyle or anything and will 'counsel' only as much as you need - nothing's forced on you so you can relax.
For the first few days, there's the physical act of getting into ketosis to overcome. This can be difficult at times as you go through carb withdrawal ... you may feel lethargic, headachy, a bit nauseous and hungry but you'll get loads of support to help you through it from everyone here.(By the way, these symptoms can be reduced if you cut down on your carbs before you start sole sourcing).
Then there's the psychological barrier to overcome ... for the first couple of weeks I couldn't get over the fact I wasn't eating. I kept thinking, "I haven't eaten for 5 days!" and "OMG I haven't eaten for 11 days!!". I found it hard to accept that I was functioning perfectly OK on so few calories.
Then I just settled into the diet and now it's just a way of life. When you see the great results week after week, it just motivates you to want to continue to the end. Also, the support, encouragment and comeraderie you get on these boards is second to none: I couldn't have come this far without it.
Please don't be daunted by the amount you have to lose: I had 12st to lose at my heaviest and now only have 3st 3lb left to go (I'd already lost nearly 3st when I started CD). Check out the WeMITT thread: it's especially for those of us who have (or have had) a lot of weight to lose and need extra support from those who know what it's like to have to go that extra mile!
You've made an important first step by joining minimins - we'll walk the walk alongside you so please don't be afraid: go for it - you'll never regret the decision!
