Started in the Zone 40-30-30 and tend to judge my eating on that guide though now that I am good at it - I dont track as close and probably eat more like South Beach which is the zone without measuring.
Calorie counting, exercise all that good stuff. most importantly I dont deny myself treats - if I want chocolate I eat it - 1 bite is better than nothing and a whole kit kat can cure my cravings for months - lesser of two evils - eat it now and get over it or restrict myself, dwell on it, and in a month toss the whole deal and pig out?
For me it all about choices - I choose to eat right and well 90% of the time and dont freak when I cheat/treat like this weekend.
In reality it is the exercise that clinches the deal - the more you burn the more you can eat or the more weight you lose. The more you lose the better you feel and the more you want to exercise - vicious circle that it is.
Free website for calorie and nutrient counters nutritiondata.com gives USDA labels for just about everything from bananas to sesame sticks. It will adjust based on the serving size you specify and gives a break down of fat carb and prot as well as lots of other nutrients, fiber, sugar, etc.
Do it for you not for anyone else and if you feel good then you are doing it right - choose attainable goals - if you have never been a size 4 - get real.
If you feel good and dont have a stroke going up stairs - then you are on the right track - health first - mirror last.
Another nickle from me.
Later