[ericmcer]

One caveat I would say is that dieting is a personal journey, so always pay attention your energy levels and weight as you try to different diets. Your ideal diet is going to be unique to you and it will change over time.

I tried restrictive diets a few times in my 20s and they always made me feel tired and messed with my stomach. Now in my late 30s reducing carbs and fats have been really helpful.

[borroka]

I think this is the attitude that makes it difficult to lose weight. Dieting is not a personal journey or a spiritual endeavor; you have to eat less and serve smaller portions. It should not be restrictive beyond what is reasonable (I assure you that no one has died in the past because Oreos were not available).

Interestingly, when a person gains weight they are not asked to do so under medical treatment, but when the same person wants to lose the fat and get down to a reasonable weight there are all these warnings, dangers and side effects. It's all autosuggestion. Eat less, and do that reasonably.