I've been successful on an exchange diet. I went from 196.5 lbs. to 150 lbs. in the year 2000 at the age of 74. Now I am 76, and still maintaining the weight loss.
I am diabetic, so an exchange program was a logical step for me, Dr. recommended and all that. The method I used was the Richard Simmons program of healthy eating and exercise. The gadget used is called a Foodmover, and it records the exchanges. I began by using exchanges amounting to 1400 calories, now I have cut down on that. Currently I am eating 4 protein, 4 starch, 2 dairy, 5 vegetables, etc. It works for me. At times I fall off the wagon so-to-speak, but I get right back on. And every day offers a new opportunity to restart my healthy eating and exercise.
I have counted calories lots during my life, and for me this exchange program is much more simple. I just close the windows of my Foodmover and when the windows are all closed I am through eating for the day. And I can choose what I want to eat. No one ever starved using a Foodmover and an exchange program.
There is a lot of information on the internet regarding food exchanges, etc. My biggest problem was portion control. Until I got involved in all this I was eating more than I thought I was. When I began to limit the size of my portions, things worked much better.
Since losing the weight I have been able to eliminate all my diabetic meds and reduce my bp meds. I look better and feel better. My doctor is happy with me, my husband is happy with me. I am happy, too.
Good luck to you in whatever you decide to do. And if you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
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