Trudy, but even then, some people can't do it for 4 weeks. I know what you mean, because I was on modified Atkins for 6 weeks years ago.

Stop eating foods that have sugar in them for no good reason ( why does peanut butter have sugar in it? eat natural peanut butter because it has no added sugar)

I have been trying to cut back on sugar too, and I have definitely started to read labels more often. Why does tomato paste need added sugar? I add a little fruit juice to seltzer to try to fool myself into thinking I'm drinking soda.

The truth is, my mom being a hippie goddess is probably the only reason I watch my diet, ever(I wish I had a manual for my metabolism, I swear...you guys would get it free.) Although I do actually like to eat grapefruit and stuff, I have an urge toward garbage, that, if I'm completely honest, bathing-suit season is not a very strong incentive for...even if I knock myself out, sumus quod sumus(we are what we are...thanks, Garrison Keillor) ETA: Did I ever tell you that my crazy stepmonster(and her untreated eating disorder) used to feed me till I puked? Seriously, I think watching me eat was her porn for a year...I didn't always hurl, but I thought I had something to be concerned about...digestion-wise...

If you want to cut down on anything, don't make it so it feels abusive or dispiriting or you won't do it for long. I don't think our eating habits need to be self-abuse.

I couldn't agree more, le n. I am a fan of moderation in all things.

For good healthy snacks that stave off cravings, I like nuts, trail mix (which is still nuts in a way), and those wee clementine oranges. A friend recommended olives, and those are good too.

For me sugar is tempting, but I can feel satisfied with a little bit, so I'm OK there. But I see it in Franny, the intense craving of sugar, so I am trying to be careful about what kinds of snacks I leave around the kitchen. And I pretty much discourage the juice drinking since I figure she gets enough sugar from all the fruit and the health bars ("health" bars) she eats.

The average ( american?) diet is around 60+% carbohydrates. I try to keep it under 50%( for my diabetes) . This is hard, but very doable.

I broke the eat all the cookies problem by eating 6 times a day. I broke up my meals so I was eating very frequently. It is pretty easy to stop at two cookies when 1) you aren't too hungry and 2) you are going to eat again in a few hours.

I add a little fruit juice to seltzer to try to fool myself into thinking I'm drinking soda.

Bitters! Fancy flavored bitters! Cardamom bitters and about two drops of rose syrup in soda water is delicious.

( why does peanut butter have sugar in it? eat natural peanut butter because it has no added sugar)

I don't like natural peanut butter because of the texture. And because it's not sweet enough. Shut up.

Bitters! Fancy flavored bitters! Cardamom bitters and about two drops of rose syrup in soda water is delicious.

I keep thinking I need to invest in some bitters, but then I get overwhelmed by the options.

And a happy birthday also to this guy.

It's taken me about three years to retrain my palate to expect and appreciate fewer carbs and sugars. But I really don't crave sugar the way I used to. I didn't really believe that was going to happen, but as I say, years. It's totally worth it.

Felicitations, bonny, on the Anniversary of Your Natal Day! May there be many more to celebrate.