New and trying to drop 40lbs

In my experience, "diets" don't work, in the sense that if you cut one thing out completely, you gain everything back because your body felt deprived. Back to basics has helped me drop 10 pounds in the last few weeks... Whole foods, no soda, no microwave food, etc. It's all about balance.

I have forced myself to start eating breakfast and snacks... it really helps me gorge less on other meals.

Smart substitutions - tortillas/wraps in place of bread (130 cals V 200 cals for a sandwich), nut milks instead of cows milks, baked instead of fried, mustard in place of mayo...

Finally, I am not one to weigh everyday unlike some others. Being obsessed with daily numbers only makes me more anxious. Also, if you have a bad meal or a bad day, remember it happens to all of us... the major thing is to just get right back on track.

Best of luck!