Carbs vs. carbs

I have a very simple question I can't figure out on my own.
On Atkins we are allowed 20 gms of net carbs a day. Its summer and I love my self some lemonade - I love squeezing a lemon wedge over just about anything.

It says in the book (or the accompanying material) that we are not allowed more than 3 tbsp of lemon juice per day. Now what if I were to switch that for some cheese or condiment carbs?

Would that be okay?

I'm pretty sure that replacing those things w/ lemon juicw would be o.k. Fresh lemon juice has been known to increase weight loss. You'll just have to give it a shot and see if it works for you.

Well first of all the 20 gram net carb limit is during the induction phase. People often mistake Induction for the entire Atkins diet. Later on as you progress through the stages you'll be allowed to add more carbs. I don't see a problem trading up lemon juice for another condiment if you really prefer using it as a seasoning instead of something else.

The thing I prefer about Atkins is that you are encouraged to eat what tastes good to you as long as you follow the basic rules. I was browsing your diet calendar and it seems to me that controlling your net carb intake is not a problem for you on most days. I think you could get by with a lemon wedge or two just fine.

A carb is a carb is a carb. I don't think it matters really where the carbs come from as long as your net carbs are kept at the proper amount and there is some nutrition from them as well. ie. not just empty carbs

Thanks Holfraz and GWMcolorado.

Holfraz, I think so too but I just wanted to be sure that someone hasn't had a "problematic" experience with lemon juice. Just wasn't sure on the reason why they limit it to 3T per day. I'm sure its going to be a trial and error thing.

GWMcolorado, I know the 20 net carb limit is for induction only but I still want to lose a little over 20 lbs so i'm still 10 lbs away from moving into OWL. I'm very conscious of my carb intake - I guess that shows in my diet diary. You are doing pretty good yourself. Just one tip between two low carbers - exercise (even just a little) helps a lot.

Thanks.
I think you are right on the money of being wary of empty carbs.
I beg to differ though (based only on personal experience), a carb is either a good carb or a bad carb. Its just that the moment I have sugar (fruit sugars included) my body just bloats up. Empty carbs do the worst things to my brains too - I instantly start craving the worst things.