An editorial/publishing devotee, I'm glad to be here to share the spirit and word on getting healthier. :-)

Because of health issues (especially cardiac) and per doctors' orders, I need to follow a gluten-free, caffeine-free, limited-lactose (including no chocolate!), low-fat, low-cholesterol, low-iron, low-acid, but potassium- and magnesium-rich diet. While trying to do that, I have lost 18 lbs this year on a modified Weight Watchers program. It's not difficult to follow all the restrictions; if I don't, symptoms quickly kick in and I get sick. Nevertheless, I do still miss my all-time favorite foods: cheese (all types!), chocolate, 2% milk, spicy foods, and good old-fashioned pasta with wonderful sauces! Fortunately, I do also love brown rice, lots of veggies, and tons of fruit!


MY FS GOALS:
1) Losing an additional 28 to 38 lbs and then maintaining the 46- to 56-lb weight-loss success!

2) Lowering triglycerides to <150 mg/dL. (They have averaged 450 mg/dL for a decade; highest level of 620 mg/dL was in 2008.)

3) Keeping cholesterol <200 mg/dL, HDL <50 mg/dL, and LDL <100 mg/dL. (My cholesterol has averaged 260 mg/dL for two decades; highest reading of 300 mg/dL was in 2008.)

4) Keeping potassium and other electrolytes high enough, especially to help maintain healthy cardiac function.

5) Following a sensible weight-loss diet and exercise routine while staying within the following DAILY VALUES (based on a 1500-calorie diet):
Total fat (g): <50 g, saturated fat <15 g
Cholesterol (mg): <200 mg
Sodium (mg): <2000 mg
Carbohydrates (g): <250 g
Protein (g): 65-75 g
kCalories (cals): <1750 cals
Potassium (mg): 3,500 mg
Magnesium (mg): 800-1000 mg
Calcium (mg): 1200 mg