does everyone else's opinion matter?

Personally I think they are wrong.
You have made a conscious choice to eat healthier and lead a better lifestyle but like anything else, it takes time to get used to it. You may have the motivation to stay on track but it'll be tough for friends or family to accept the new you for a while.
I guess I would try to steer clear of the "sabotagers" for a while.
Or have a frank discussion with them and say that you can't spend time with them until they can accept that you don't want the late night meals or treats.

Best of luck to you! I think we have all dealt with that type of person before.

Oh, I so feel for you.

Here's my short answer - their opinions do NOT matter. For the most part.

Here's what I've realized about my own body - processed sugars increase my allergy sensitivities to regular allergens like tree pollen and dust and cats, irritability shoots up, and energy slumps. So, avoiding foods like ice cream (or yes, eating too late at night) isn't just about weight loss for me, it's about my overall well-being. And that should be reason enough.

I do whatever I can to not draw attention to myself, though - i.e. I don't make a big deal out of not eating late or whatever. Sometimes I'll have a teeny plate with a couple of small things just to keep the attention off of what I'm *not* doing.

It's hard hard HARD to change your lifestyle (and good for YOU!) when you don't have support. I totally *get* you on that one. You will, however, find lots of support here at MFP.

Best of luck to you - keep us posted on how you're doing!

yea they do not think i need to lose weight....thats the problem. and i feel like their lives revolve around food which drives me nuts because there are so many other things to do and stuff to talk about beyond "whats for dinner" you know?

I hate that, people tell me I don't need to lose weight, but everyone has their own opinion of themselves and if you think you need to lose weight and if you want to lose weight that's up to you, not them

If they are doing this every night of the week, then that's a problem. But I hate to deprive myself while others are having fun, so I try to save a cheat night for when I know I will be hanging out with people. For example, I am having some family over tomorrow night so I know to work out extra and maybe cheat a little becasue I would hate to eat a salad while they're all enjoying pizza or something. But that doesn't mean an all out pig out.....a slice or two of pizza so I can still stay within my range but also have fun.

You may also want to try talking to them at a time when you're not angry about them just having hasseled you about it. One night I told my boyfriend, while I know I am ultimately responsible for what I eat, I told him I need help and if I already have dinner planned, I need him to not suggest going out to eat for something that will be unhealthy. He may not always stick to it and be perfect, but he is trying.

I agree with amymeenieminymo, my lifestyle is always living as healthy as I can but within reason. Don't ever deprive yourself of foods, like once a week it's okay to go out and have that meal out or it's okay to have a little slice of cake on someone's birthday. All within moderation. So I would just tell your friends that you can have one night out a week or so and then the other times why not go to a movie together & you can bring your own healthy snacks & drink or splurge on a little popcorn, go out for a walk together to catch up, a bike ride, or go go somewhere where they can eat/drink what they want but that there's also good choices for you. I like going to coffee shops where I can get a tea and my boyfriend can get a grande mocha milky fatty thing haha. We always share a dessert as well, which makes a huge difference. Don't worry, you'll get there by watching your diet 70-80% of the time and exercise, trust me. And they will realize why you resisted so much temptation and how much hard work you put in when you show up for a night out with a hot new look :laugh: There might come a time where you have to put yourself first & take a little time off from them until you feel you've worked your way in the a healthy mind set. Overall, I think you're doing an amazing thing for yourself & don't let anyone else get in the way! Best of luck!