[misskriss]

How do I deciede which is the best option for me? I am kind of stuck in a weight loss rut.

[flipafart]

try counting your calories, sometimes but not always we are eating more than we think. Hang in there my friend I hope you get out of that rut soon

[girl4christ]

I agree with flipapart. I have tried both. I lost a lot of weight counting every single carb, but I eventually gained it all back plus more when I started eating it back again. The problem is the Atkins or even SBD approach is something that I dont think can last for a lifetime. When you count calories from what I hear (I am just beginning myself) you start to know what counts for what and it is easier to make into a lifestyle change. You should be able to eat those things you like such as bread and it is very good for you. ALso, when I was counting my carbs I noticed that I was getting a lot of headaches and even got dizzy. I dontbelieve that any "diet" should make you feel that way. I think the overall outcome is to look good, be healthy and feel good. If the body reacts like this when you lessen your carbs so dramtically it is saying please stop doing this to me and give me more fuel. That's just my opinion, whatever works for you, you pick just that. ANd congrats on your weigt loss. Ill be glad when I can get to that 25 pound loss mark. So KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK

Kamesha

[1dayatatime]

I think the path you choose depends on your blood type. I am a type "A" and should be on a strict vegetarian diet to get full benefit. Well, that just ain't happenin'....but I have cut all red meat from my diet so my meats are poultry and fish (preferably seafood). Calorie counting does well with the foods my genetic make-up allows.

[LovesBassets]

By avoiding simple carbs, you'll be eating less calories . So you may find that by keeping tabs on your calorie intake, you'll naturally be avoiding carb-heavy foods anyway.

[penpal]

I'm really liking counting calories as I can eat a wide variety of foods and keep losing so long as I stay under 1600 calories per day. I don't eat "empty" carbs like white flour, white bread, rice, soda, etc. but I DO enjoy my whole grain toast with my breakfast.

I also try to eat protein, carbs and fats at each meal and snack. I'm also enjoying eating more fruit now that I'm no longer doing low carb (a cup and a half of grapes only has 90 calories). I've never eaten much beef or pork and I'm eating mostly fish for my protein and I eat chicken once or twice a week. I also eat a lot of fat free cottage cheese with fruit mixed in. For a handy snack, I like the little Dole Fruit Bowls and always have several different kinds in the fridge.

I find it's also important for me not to go more than 4 hours without a meal or planned snack - with the emphasis on PLANNED. If I don't have suitable snack foods in the house I start overdoing it on the cheese and nuts.

Good luck with your weight loss efforts!

[GonnaLooseitagain]

I agree, carbs are not ALL bad...some are good...try to do a combined calorie/carb plan...because I think it will help you overall. Good luck to you.