Thank You Fairemily...very helpful and useful info!!
I wish you luck, I know it's so difficult, it's a life changing process. I have the slowest metabolism, naturally high cholesterol, I have to watch everything, read labels, measure, ect. I don't drink at all which helps, I just never cared for alcohol so it wasn't a sacrifice. My father worked for a soft drink company, I grew up with an abundance of soda so giving that up wasn't hard either but giving up juice was, I do miss orange juice. I don't eat red meat anymore, only free range poultry or fish now. The other thing I stopped is take out food, I threw out all menus, I cook everything I consume, no Chinese food, no pizza, no fast food. One cup of black coffee a day, no cream or sugar. I know this could be difficult if you work long hours, I suggest making wraps for lunches, they make so many healthy versions now, whole wheat, gluten free, spinach. The trick is heat them up slightly before wrapping so they are flexible and don't rip apart. You can fill them up with anything, rice, beans, chicken, veggies, they easy to eat, get in the habit of making a lunch the night before. Don't get breakfast from stands or diners either, they smother everything in salt, butter and lard. Have a yougurt, fruit or even a few cubes of cheese instead. Have a snack size baggie of unsalted nuts on the side, in fact always have a healthy snack handy so you don't resort to vending machines. Men are not lured to sugar as much as women so it should be easier to give up sweets but high quality very dark chocolate is actually good for you. I don't believe one diet fits all, it's about making smart choices everyday.