I'm just an average joe whose weight crept up over the last few years. I normally sit comfortably between 190-200 and have been there for about 10 years. In the last 3 years, I've gained 56 lbs working at this desk job. I've tried a number of diets that have not worked. It seems as though dieting means sacrificing and I enjoy dining.

I was recently seen by a nutritionist for my elevated cholesterol who encouraged a diet log. I decided to give fatsecret a try on the mobile phone and desktop. In an effort to do better with my cholesterol, I noticed a cool benefit of monitoring diet intake, weight and exercise...I made small adjustments to my lifestyle...trade offs.

Its not that I gave up the burger...I just didn't have the double patty. Its not that I didn't have the fries, I just didn't super-size it. I enjoyed thin crust pizza with the works because it had far less calories than pepperoni only pan or thick crust pizza. I don't feel like I'm sacrificing the joys of life...just taking the lesser of the two evils. So much for cholesterol though...I think. Hopefully the increased psyllium fiber and fish oil can make up the delta for not turning away the bacon. The progress is pretty good so far for the weight. Its too early to tell for the cholesterol yet.

I started working out on the WII with the Fit, Biggest Loser, My Personal Trainer and cardio boxing. Not consistent enough yet. I have also tried to make changes like walking the stairs rather than taking the elevator. Essentially taking the same trade off queues as the diet...small activity adjustments that add up.

The million dollar question is whether this will become a permanent lifestyle change, will I progress with better habits or is this another fleeting diet and physical fitness management attempt? Also, how will this impact my cholesterol?

Social dieting...what a cool concept. Please add me as a buddy so I can learn and share the experience.