I've found I get too frustrated if I try to plan everything out (and nothing EVER goes along with my itinerary). I do better just making what sounds good when it's time for a meal. (The exception is the lunches + 2 snacks I pack for work)

Bananas are ok, he uses them in 3 different recipes in "Eating for Life." I think the list in BFL is just a guide so we can get the gist of it. There's many low GI veggies that he didn't include on that list that are excellent for us. Also he said to eat as many low GI vegetables as you want.

I don't think it's always a bad thing to skip a carb at a meal. A lot of the champions skipped the carb in meal # 6. I've found I loose more weight if I err on the side of less carbs than too many! Also if I had a particularly wild free day I sometimes cut back the next week. It's not by the book but everyone must do what works for them.

Good day!
Sheri