One of the things I've learned from all my failed diets (well, actually failed maintenance - very successful diets) is that I have to figure out what things are not negotiable. What can't I successfully give up and how do I fit those things into a successful weight loss program.
I know I love crunchy, salty snacks. I've discovered soy crisps and I can eat them in the appropriate serving size. Sometimes a couple of pickles or pepperoncini will do the trick. That works for me and I haven't been near a potato chip or cheese curl since day 1, nor have I felt the need.
We like to eat out and do it fairly often. I'm lucky because I live in an area that values whole foods, vegetarian and ethnic foods, and locally produced stuff. It's not that hard to eat out and make good choices. I refuse to pass on the vegetarian hot and sour soup, even though I'm sure it has a little corn starch. I happen to think it's the perfect food and if I get a cold I'll eat quarts of it if I can convince my sweetie to drive into town and pick some up! I did make the mistake of ordering an omelet today. I ate a little more than half with mixed greens instead of potatoes or toast and had heartburn soon after. Won't do that again!
I thought real pasta would be on my list. I just can't eat whole wheat/grain pasta. Yuck. However I have realized it's the sauce I really want and so I make a sauce loaded with veggies - eggplant, zucchini, mushrooms, peppers, and some veggie ground with a sprinkle of good grated cheese. It's really yummy and I don't need the pasta under it.
So far I haven't missed chocolate. If I do I'm ready with a small piece of really dark chocolate but I just haven't felt the urge so far. I'm sure I will at some point though
How about you? What are the things you won't give up and how do you fit them in?