If you're trying to lose weight:

    (This is going to be a bit choppy.  I am trying to share without getting into TMI and I am in a hurry, lol)
  
    I have always been a chubbier person; due to lack of exercise, poor eating habits, etc.  In 2002, my junior year of high school, I lost 30 pounds by rarely eating and doing aerobics (awful).  Freshman year of college I gained 20 pounds, sophomore year another 10, junior year another 10, senior year another 10... By the end of 2007 I had gained over 50 pounds since high school!  I had maintained this weight for a few years. 
    Of course during all of this time I had *tried* to lose weight.  Various weight loss programs, work outs, diets, etc. Nothing worked! My doctor told me that my ovarian cysts may be what was causing my facial break out and weight gain/what was making it difficult to lose weight. 
   I just accepted that and figured I would just be a chubby person the rest of my life.  Then I learned about processed foods and dairy.  I encourage you to do research on processed foods people.  I have *pretty much* given up dairy and processed foods. My husband and I eat sooo many fruits and vegetables, organic foods, and drink almond milk now.  We are even cutting out a lot of common household chemicals, deodorants, and perfumes.
  I used to have to go to the doctor every six weeks to check on my cysts.  Guess what?  Last time I was at the doctor, they were gone.  They still come back but not so big or painful anymore.  I don't get as many stomach aches anymore, my face is clearing up, I have more energy to work out longer...
    What I am trying to say is, do your research before spending a ton of money on diets, etc.  I used to weigh 185 (my highest was 195) and was a size 18 pant.  Now I am 164 and size 12 pant.  How?  Eating less processed foods/dairy and A TON of fruits and vegetables.  Taking vitamins.  Being active at least 30 minutes a day... You NEED a support system!  My husband has been so amazing during all of this! This website is SO encouraging and FREE! YOU HAVE TO WANT THIS!
   I still want to lose another 20 pounds, but a friend asked me what I had done so I wanted to share with others who may be trying to lose weight too!
   This process has been s-l-o-o-o-o-o-o-w for me.  BUT.  At least it's working!