Been trying for years

I too was always the "chubby kid". For years I have struggled with my weight. At one point I lost weight and was feeling really good about myself...and then I gained it all back. I love food...that is my problem. I have recently joined a gym and have been doing well at sticking to it, but I realized until I start eating healthier I will see no progress. I know what I need to do...I just have a hard time staying motivated expecially when results aren't coming as quickly as I would like. So I could use a accountability partner also

Great advise ninerbuff. You must first be committed to lose the weight. If you are going for a quick fix, it may creep back on. Be committed to keep at it for the rest of your life. There is the biggest trophy of all.

I too have decided to stop trying and to do! I was the fat kid in middle school and lost a lot of weight in high school with not too much difficulty. I popped out three kids in a matter of three years and always went down to a reasonable weight afterward. Unfortunately I was real sick a couple years ago and on steroids for an entire year. Between those and quitting the terrible habit of smoking I have packed on the weight again, and it is a lot more stubborn this time. I'm loving the accountability of MFP so far, (I'm only 6 days in) and I've adopted a clean eating program from a friend that I actually seem to like most of the food! It IS possible to trade out the not so good foods with good food, just have to play around a little with the good stuff! Sorry for the lengthy reply, but I know the feeling of trying and trying, so I can totally sympathize with you! You got this!

My food diary is open to friends, feel free to scroll through there. Simple swaps I have found helpful and surprising-I use a whole wheat and flax pita bread for sandwiches now that is quite tasty. An excellent condiment instead of mayo/mustard and whatnot is hummus! I would've thought it sounded crazy but it is super good! I've traded out peanut butter for all natural peanut butter and applesauce for organic unsweetened applesauce. I make my own granola bars now and like them even better than the store bought ones. Instead of potato chips I make my own kale chips. MY FIVE YEAR OLD likes them lol and he is mr. picky. A few simple changes and the differences can be surprising. I'm new to this too and hardly an expert, but I feel so much better than I did a month ago.