[evry1smom]

Hey everyone! I love this site. It is so full of information and support!

I am looking for some insight on a eating program that would be right for me. I have done SBD in the past, but that is it. I lost about 20 lbs. I have been reading into the Ideal Protein diet but can't find anything as far as cost or where there might be a clinic in my area.

My eating habits are as follows: I start off right. I eat oatmeal, or yogurt with granola, etc in the morning. From there I lose it. I need a structured meal plan that I can prepare the night before or easy to whip up when it's time. I don't drink a whole lot of soda. Maybe 2 cans of diet a week. I have begun exercising this week everyday so far (surprised myself with that one)!! I am very motivated, but need some insight or opinions. I know we are all different, but I want something that works! Any plans out there that are better than the rest? I have 3 kids and stay at home, so I am in the kitchen constantly catering to them!

Thanks for any advice!

[Emme]

I have tried many different diets and "structured" plans, but I found that the best thing for me to do is count calories and stick with foods that I truly enjoy so I don't feel like I am starving myself or not eating the foods that I love.

This is what I have been eating recently and I truly love it all: multi-grain muffins with all-natural peanut butter and fruit spread, Kashi Go-Lean cereal, cheese sticks, tuna fish (albacore and chunk light), clementines, veggies, and my Lean Cuisines and baked Cheetos (for lunch), tilapia, and chicken. Granted, I do have to mix up the chicken or I get bored to death of it! I usually make chicken baked with salsa, or chicken fingers (cut chicken into chunks, dip in Eggbeaters, and lightly coat with bread crumbs, bake at 400 for 20 minutes...delish!).

My husband jokes with me because the cereal looks so "gross" to him (it's not Cinnamon Toast Crunch), but it's something that I truly enjoy eating. So, I guess that is what helps me. i stick with what I truly enjoy eating, but I just keep track of it.

[Vladadog]

I'm another devoted calorie counter. Like Emme I do best if I can eat whatever I want and don't feel denied. Lean meats, fruit, veggies, the occasional treat. I'm pretty amazed just how much food 1500 calories are if you don't eat candy and chips.... I hardly ever go over my calorie limit even when we eat out because I'm so satisfied with the quantity, quality, and diversity of food I get daily.