Today marks 100 days of following a low-carb lifestyle and I was shocked when I sat down to really evaluate what my progress has been:

1. 20 lbs lost forever. Maybe not a weight loss of the mythic proportions some folks seem to be achieving, but steady and sustainable.

2. A full 7% loss in my percentage of body fat - this is what matters most to me. I've learned to stop measuring progress in pounds but rather to focus on how much actual fat vs muscle my body is carrying.

3. Renewed energy. 100 days ago, I dragged myself to the gym once or twice a week and was miserable. Now, I'm cycling the 35 mile round trip to and from work 4 days a week, maintaining a pace of 17-19 miles per hour.

4. A complete lack of desire to cheat. Yes, once in a while I will endulge at a restaurant or some such thing, but I've learned to respect food and the choices that I make as a life long committment and responsibility. It's ok to have some extra carbs once in a while, but it should be as a treat and for something of particular value. Gone are the days when I would just grab whatever was quick and easy. I'm far more conscious of what I put into my body and why and am keenly aware of the consequences of my decisions.

To celebrate, this Sunday I'll be riding in my first 100 mile "century" bike ride. Life is good. Best of luck to us all as we continue to pursue our health, our positive self-images and our new WOE.