Greetings! At 35 I found my regular exercise routine and eating habits were in need of an overhaul. Over the past few years, my weight has crept up about 15 lbs beyond the point where I am comfortable. I bought the South Beach book after seeing the dramatic results people around me were experiencing. Skeptical of anything in the form of "diet", I was not going to do anything drastic without some research first. After reading the book I was firmly convinced that Dr Agatson's nutritional approach was a good fit for me. I have a terrible family cardiac history. So, this diet would address my two most troubling concerns of overall heart health and excess weight. So far, I have had very positive results and I have become a bit of a cheerleader for the diet for anyone interested in making a life change. The diet requires, in my opinion, a time commitment from the food preparation perspective. (In the past, I spent much more time preparing lunch for my 3 children than for myself.) I have also experienced an increase in the food bill. Well worth it for long term health benefits. I am a little more than 1/2 way to my goal weight. I have achieved my goal of making changes that I can live with forever. If anyone actually reads this whole bio: thanks! It feels good to write about it.