If it's okay with you girls, I'd like to join in on your thread. This is the first time I've tried the South Beach diet, and I've found that support forums are a great way to keep me motivated and feel supported. Here's my story...
I've always struggled with my weight (I'm 31). I'm currently 197 and am looking to be somewhere around 152 eventually. A little over a year ago, I was at 168 and feeling great. Then life happened and I gained a bunch of weight. I now better understand how I used food as a coping mechanism (how carbs can literally work eerily similar to anti-depressants or anti-anxiety meds). So I've been working using exercise to help balance out the stresses of life and difficult times and just being more mindful of my eating habits to makes sure I'm eating for the right reasons and not because I'm sad or anxious. This was a big turning point for me.
Unfortunately, I was still really struggling to take off the weight. It seemed like I was putting huge effort in and getting very little results. That's when a friend mentioned South Beach and I read the book over the weekend and it made a lot of sense to (I was hesitant initially because I was afraid it was going to be too much of some short term fad diet thing where you lose weight but most of it is muscle and you just yo-yo). But it gave me better perspective and a little structure to really make the changes I've known I need to make (eating more vegetables being a big one!). So here I am...
It's only day 2 for me, but I can already start to feel the effects. I've never eaten so many veggies in life, but I like the way I feel. I can also already start to feel the diuretic effect from the low bad carbs --- and I'm drinking tons of water. Right now, it hasn't been a struggle at all. I'm not a big fan of breads, but I do have a sweet tooth but I'm not dying for cookies or anything (let's hope it stays that way!).
Generally, the biggest challenge I have is taking the time to shop and prepare. I've tried some of the recipes and already really dig the quiche cups and the moroccan chicken. So I'm excited to try some more. Unfortunately I lost my job recently, so that's super stressful, but the silver lining is that I have the time to do all the grocery shopping, preparation and exercise that I don't think I would have if I were still working. Perhaps this bout of unemployment will have some good things with it too as I can start my next job lighter and healthier!
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We can do this!!
I've been having a hard time losing this time, though. I'm thinking it's because I'm going to school now instead of working. Anyway, good luck to you ladies! I am ready to get this weight GONE! 
