I started the South Beach Diet today...

[KimKelly]

For the 4th time this week! :D

With ski season over (for me) and swim suit season quickly approaching I hit the gym and attempted, thought about, motivated towards the South Beach way. I made it till 2:30 every day, then I caved. Cheese and crackers one day (albeit part skim cheese and whole grain crackers!), toasted sourdough the next, followed by a beautiful peanut butter and jelly (all fruit!) sandwich (on whole wheat!) the day after. Today it was a simple bowl of cereal followed by a glass of wine with dinner. Oh, and the rest of the pasta that was left over from the kids dinner... I just didn't want it to go to waste!

I did the diet last year and it worked great. I only want to lose 4 lbs or so (I know... my husband laughs, but on my frame those few lbs make a big difference in the way things fit, ie: hang over the top of the jeans!). It's just really hard to get motivated this time.

I'd never done a "diet" before, but since I hit 40 the lbs just don't stay off like they used to. I really felt good with less carbs in my diet as well, but lately I've really slipped back into a pretty much carb only way of eating. I have to admit I never followed the diet fully, but just reducing carbs (I would definitely be called a carb addict!) and increasing vegies and protein brought me to a good weight and really made me feel good.

Here's hoping tomorrow will be the charm!!!:)

K

[southjerseymom]

I can definitely relate! I will be turning 40 in a few months and I don't know how my midriff can be thickening in spite of healthy habits. I went on WW and followed the Core plan Fall of 2006 to lose a few pounds for my 20 yr reunion. I looked and felt great! Didn't feel deprived at all! I'm following the plan on my own right now and journaling everything that goes in my mouth! You'd be surprised how a taste of this and a nibble of that adds up. And, unfortunately, with our changing metabolisms, our bodies just don't need those extra calories. I recommend Core because you follow a plan that includes all food groups and allows you to indulge in your favorites, within reason. Those phases on South Beach were torcherous for me. I struggled with that plan a few years back. WW works best for me. Would you consider an alternative plan? Good luck!

[KristiB]

I know a lot of people who have done South Beach. I've heard skipping stage one and going straight to stage two will still give you results and is much easier.