i saw some other people have this question and was wondering about it myself. Just about how much cheese are we allowed on phase 1? because some people try to limit to 2 servings of cheese per day. is that really necessary?

Rain, as far as I know (and I definitely could be wrong...) there isn't a specific limit on cheese. However, you are supposed to limit your saturated fat intake as much as possible, and since fat free cheese is pretty disgusting, you're going to be getting some saturated fat with each serving. So, yes, you need to limit your intake. By how much? Depends on your cholesterol level, what other kinds of saturated fat you are consuming, etc. If cheese is your only source of saturated fat and you are eating reduced fat or light cheese, you might be able to get away with more than 2 servings a day.

I hope that helps, though I know it's a bit confusing. One of the things I have a love/hate relationship with on SBD is that it gives us the freedom to take responsibility for our own eating and teaches us to pay attention to what our body wants and needs. That means that there aren't as many 'hard and fast' rules as there are on other plans, but it also means, I think, that you are more likely to stick with this plan and make it a major life change/way of life--you learn so much about what your body is craving and what makes you healthy and fit.

Personally, I have cheese every day!

what if the cheese i eat has no saturated fat in it?

It still will have lots of calories but it's your choice. What kind of cheese has NO sat fats?

kraft fat free american cheese has no saturated fat in it

Hmmm...guess I live on the wrong side of the border.

kraft fat free american cheese has no saturated fat in it

ya we have that, fat free chedder, fat free montery jack and fat free colby (all kraft)

and personally i can't tell the difference :P

so does that mean theres no portion size for fat free cheese in phase 1?
btw how much calories should we be having each day?

if I throw mustard on the fat free cheeses (I think cabot makes a very low fat block cheese) I can't taste the difference. It's a great snack and I don't miss the crackers!

I LOVE Kraft FF America. Roll it with ff deli meat (and mustard, I am on a kick!) and I am good to go!!!

Jenn, that Cabot 75% is really good, but I think they've added some odd starches to fill out where the fat should be. I went back to the 50% light because of it.

It's aggravating because I SO much prefer the taste of the 75%!

Maybe other Chickies would know if my worries are necessary?