Questions for the success stories

I didn't have success by cutting anything in particular. I had success by precise logging. It sounds like you're eating healthy food. You're probably eating a hundred calories more than you need every day. It's too small to even notice. Once you're logging and measuring, you'll lose the weight without even feeling like you're denying yourself anything.

I frankly don't worry about macros. I make sure I get enough protein, vitamins and minerals. I eat less starch than I prefer, just because it's hard to keep my calories under my goal if I eat breads and pasta. My fat may be only 3 grams a day. Your body needs some fat, but you really don't need much, and the fat you get from things like whole grains has the unsaturated fats that your body absolutely requires. Your body is pretty good at creating saturated fats from scratch, which is why we're all here, lol.

I judge whether what I'm doing is healthy by how I feel. And I feel great, much more energy, and better mood.

For me most important first off was to be accountable for the amount of calories I was consuming. Naturally through eating better and making healthier choices my fat and sodium intake was lowered (I lived on junk food before) Then I worked on getting in my protein and fiber. I've never once worried about carbs.

I just believe in doing what works for you for LONG TERM. This is a lifestyle change not a fad.

You sound like a pretty healthy eater (and snacker). I used to snack all the time, but what really helped me lose the weight was getting food out of reach and out of my pantry. I used to snack on chips, cookies, candy, anything you can think of. But I got rid of all that.

But, you seem to eat healthy things...my advice would be to just make these foods not as easy to reach for, like if the dried fruit and nuts are just on the counter. Put them away so you won't be as tempted. As for cereal, I eat just plain cheerios (friends call me crazy) but its so low cal it makes a great snack.