Has anyone here ever intentionally lost a lot of weight? Like more than 30 pounds?

[AngryOldDem]

49. Yes.

Through Weight Watchers. Say what you will about WW, but the program worked for me with its food tracking method. I went through the program back in the 1980s, where it was basically the diabetic diet where you kept track of "exchanges." I went through the program again last year when I finally admitted to myself that my weight was creeping back up. The new program is based on points, and is much, much more flexible and easier to live with. You get a set number of points for the day, plus extra weekly points for treats and such. Foods are given a certain number of points that you deduct from your daily total.

My accompanying exercise the first time was walking; this time it's running. Although I've now gotten away from strict tracking, I am still very mindful of what I eat and how much. Basically, it's just being aware of and accountable for what goes into my mouth.

My advice is find a program that you're comfortable with, and think you can follow without resenting it and feeling deprived. Also, increase your exercise, even if it's just walking. I lost more than 60 pounds the first time just through following the plan and walking.

Once you lose the weight though, don't fall into the trap of thinking you don't have to stay on top of your weight. That's what happened to me; luckily I caught things just in time.

Good luck -- you can do it! Keep us posted on your progress.

EDIT: Oh, and my time frame: First time, about a year. (Much heavier then.) This last time, four months.