I never had a weight problem until I was in my mid 40's, I'm now 54. My cholestrol, blood sugar, and blood pressure are fine, I just don't like how I feel most of the time. The extra 55 pounds make my knees and ankles hurt, and I don't have the energy I need. My choice for the South Beach Diet is more because of my husband than me. He is pre-diabetic and his Dr. recommended this diet to get his insulin resistance changed. I figure if we both eat the same it can only be beneficial for us. I want to play more with my 23 grandchildren and not have such a hard time getting down and up.