My diet is still going well. As opposed to quitting smoking or quitting drinking, there is much

[applegrove]

less denial that 'just one bit of indulgeance' 'won't hurt'. When I tried quitting smoking many times in the past I would fool myself into smoking again before the day was out. With drinking, I could go long periods of time without drinking, but then I always thought i would drink one day again. And I did start again. I've finally quit those two - for good I hope - but this eating thing is easier. At least it feels that way right now. I'm now in the habit of eating caesar salads when I go out. And I didn't want dessert tonight even though I had a small portion for dinner. My palate is changing to. There is one food I still indulge in but am enjoying it less and less. It is impossible to go cold turkey with food, but perhaps this will not be the struggle I thought it might. Yippee!

[CaliforniaPeggy]

1. I think you're seeing the long view, the way forward.

You are realizing that this is a lifestyle change, not a "diet." And you are probably seeing the benefits of losing the pounds...

All that makes this easier.

Congratulations, my dear applegrove!

[applegrove]

2. You are so sweet Peggy.

[Turbineguy]

3. Alan Sherman

I sing this sad song
'Cause my diet went wrong
Though I honestly tried to pay heed
I don't care how high is an elephant's eye is
But an elephant's rear I don't need!

Good Luck and Persistence!

[HopeHoops]

4. Just try not to think about gorgonzola, blue cheese dressing and brie. D'OH!

[Honeycombe8]

5. Congratulations for changing your eating habits.

Even if you don't lose as much as you want, I've found that changing eating habits makes for better health in the long run. Now, when I eat badly for several days, I can feel the effects. I'm sluggish, don't feel as good, am not in as good a mood, etc.

It's hard. I struggle with it. The bad thing with food is you can't give it up entirely. But the good thing is that you can substitute good things for bad things. No, it's not the same. But it's something and can satisfy that craving. Your taste buds also get more used to the "new" foods.

I rarely eat white breads...but I do eat whole grain low cal breads, and I love 'em. Your taste buds change. At least mine did.

Congratulations for even trying! Every little change counts.

[tandot]

6. I've read that some Caesar salads can be quite high in calories and fat.

http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/ss/slideshow-foods-that-can-wreck-your-diet

Also, some grilled turkey breast or chicken breast has lots of protein and might keep you full longer.

I am struggling, too. I love salads and just add balsamic vinegar with some olive oil as a dressing. Sometimes I add lean ham, a couple of eggs, or tuna and make it a meal. I had a turkey meatloaf tonight with a big bowl of salad on the side.

I found quitting smoking easier than quitting unhealthy foods. I should quit alcohol, too, since that adds extra calories and causes me to have the munchies.