Hi Potatofree, no matter what plan, it HAS to be a way of life that you are comfortable with - we all know that most diets fail because they work for a while but most people then stop and bounce back. Cravings for fruits and nuts and not liking animal fats is exactly why I switched to South Beach - mostly, maybe an Atkinesk version of SBD. When I read that book, I thought it sounds like something I can life with. And that is in the end what counts - " I can't wait to the day when my diet is done and I can have a .... again" won't work!

You are an experienced dieter and probably can work out your own plan - but for beginners who might read this, I would advocate plan switching over making your own plans. It is better to find a plan that best matches your tastes and preferences, and then stick to it to the letter than making a new one of your own until you really know your body and a lot about diets.