I live the Virgin diet every day. It should be called the Virgin Lifestyle. This is a good diet for people with intolerances and who have a very difficult time losing weight, but it's great for everyone I think because it makes complete sense and is super natural. It's a ten-week plan to lose weight and discover intolerances. Take out 7 foods for three weeks then reintroduce them one at a time for the next seven weeks. Below I've explained the reasons for taking out these 7 foods. Gluten: contains lectins that bind to insulin, which creates insulin resistance and can make your blood sugars rise, making it hard to lose weight. Gluten is also an inflammatory. Soy: a phyto-estrogen, a plant source of the hormone estrogen. It's also heavily genetically modified. Dairy: like gluten, acts as an isulin resistant. It's nearly impossible to find hormone-free milk. So, hormones and rising blood sugar=acne and fat. There are studies out there that show countries with the highest dairy consumption have the highest levels of osteoporosis. On the contrary, countries that rely on calcium rich foods have a much lower rate of osteoporosis. I've read that the pasturization process of milk breaks down the protein that allows our bodies to absorb the calcium. I believe all this but there is still a huge debate about it. Corn: inflammatory and a high-glycemic food Peanuts: inflammatory and high in lectins. Eggs: inflammatory. If you have sensitivity to corn and soy, eggs might affect you because the chickens are probably fed corn and soy. I have a huge intolerance to fat so another reason eggs bother me. Sugar: we all know that's bad! And don't be fooled by agave necter...higher in fructose than high fructose corn syrup. I'm 5'8 and was 148 lbs. I'm now 135 and holding. In two weeks, my injured knee from subluxation over a year before wasn't hurting and felt stronger. My ankles reduced by 1/2 inch, something I thought was genetic but I guess was just excess fluid. I never really had bad acne, but what I did have cleared up and my blackheads reduced significantly. Also, my menstrual cycle went from seven days to three. My head felt clearer and I had more energy. I rarely have wind or bloated belly as well. The cellulite on my legs reduced by about 50%. I made a point to not exercise the first three weeks to see how effective just changing my diet was. ALL these changes happened without exercise, though of course after the three weeks I went back to yoga. I don't think everyone needs to cut out all of these foods. I also know some people won't have as many changes as I did. But I don't see how it will hurt to try, just to see what changes might happen to you! I think JJ knows what she's talking about. In regards to sticking to it, I cheat every once in a while but I usually feel so bad when I do that I find myself cheating a lot less. Good luck!

Unbelievable! Moo had an ultrasound yesterday. I left him for the day and picked him up late, after work. My vet had the day off so I was told she'd call me first thing this morning. The phone call of doom in my mind. She finally called while I was sitting in traffic this morning. The Ultrasound came back FINE! No tumors, No cysts on the Kidneys, No Obstructions. The urinalysis also came back fine although with a little unexplained suger. I think its those darn Party Mix treats he loves so much, and I give him all the time. (I know, I know but I thought it was his last supper!) I can't believe what wonderful news this is. I cried anyway. So now I still have the problem. Why would he be loosing too much weight? Could it be from switching dry foods a lot this year? Purina one Chicken and rice, to Prescription allergy formula from the vet, to Nupro weight loss formula (I have a very fat cat too)and when Moo got sick, I went back to Purina Chicken and rice. And what caused him to have such a high fever on Saturday? I have to stay in my office all day before going home and giving him the biggest kiss and hug. (NO PARTY MIX!) I have to keep a close eye on him and make sure he gains and not looses the weight. The vet is going to give me another dry food to try to prevent any stomach upset.

dotties weight loss zone is a goon one, there are forums, recipes w/ points, and restaurant points info. Good luck! Lose a few pounds for me :) Here is a link that might be useful: dotties weight loss zone

Check the Yahoo egroups, there are several weight watchers groups. People exchange recipes and tips, plus lots of moral support. You can join and select no mail, read the postings at the website.