Hey BB - I'm glad to have this thread. I have known for years there is a link between sugar and white empty carbs and my horrible problem with alcohol. I could eat sugar by the pound when I am drinking and one leads to the other no matter what.
My doctor, who put me on campral, also suggested the South Beach Diet last year. She said her patients have had great success with it and the white flour issues were good for me to work on. It is low carb but not Atkins style - it focuses on healthy carbs and low-fat proteins. I eat a lot of chicken and salads and legumes and steamed veggies. I also eat a lot of nuts and indulge in sugar free popsicles and jello for "dessert." I have been craving pickles and olives (especially jalepeno or garlic stuffed). I don't know if its to get rid of the sweet craving or lacking sodium or what.
Anyway, I started last fall half-heartedly and lost 11 pounds by Jan 1. Since January 1 I've lost another 22 (was 24 but I gained 2 back in my romantic weekend last week and wont' know if I got rid of them again until tomorrow morning).
I highly suggest a diet that gets rid of sugar - - it'll drive you nuts for a few days but once you get rid of the cravings it all goes away - sugar, flour, cakey stuff, and AL.
I need to work on the exercise side of it now. going to go for a bike ride with my daughter this afternoon and have been trying to do crunches at night. I have a good 50 - 60 pounds to go to be where I want but feel confident with this diet I can do it because it takes care of all the cravings. If I eat pasta or bread I want more and I want Al. If I avoid them all, I am fine. when I get further along I will incorporate his other techniques in making sure any foods high in simple carbs are combined wtih protein or fat to help slow the glucose spike.
Anyway - thanks for starting this board. I hope my experience inspires someone to look at a south beach-like diet.
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