KN_Fan Jonas: I agree with Gary on this one. The SouthBeach diet was developed by a leading cardiologist to improve the health of his heart patients, and the weight loss benefit a mere side benefit, but which has won him fame as many Americans seem more obsessed about their weight than their health. I know family members and friends who have not only lost a lot of weight with the SB diet, but are a lot healthier (lower colestral, low blood pressure, etc) as as result. That said, I lost 30 lbs on Weight Watchers about 5 years ago and have been able to keep most of the weight off thru a combination of the South Beach diet, Weight Watcher Point counting, and exercise. I've discovered regular (daily) cardiovascular EXERCISE (walking and/or treadmill) an IMPORTANT element to taking & keeping the weight off. Good luck. - Scott