Welcome Megan!

I think you'll find people here who are really seeking truth and support, just like you. From my own experience, I lost about 30 lbs. in 7 months (I'm a slow loser) back in 2008, then had major thyroid & adrenal issues, stalled for over a year, gained it all back and couldn't lose doing Atkins again. Peat and Stone have some REALLY thought-provoking ideas, yes? I know for me personally, my basal temps drop whenever I eat really LC so I also am trying to incorporate more (whole food) carbs. As for the recent puffiness/flabbiness, have you emailed Matt and asked what his thoughts are on that? Aside from water retention I don't know.

This isn't a super active thread but stay with it--there are some really helpful and insightful people here, and we're on this journey together.