I've been on WW but I haven't committed enough. I now am serious (at least today) and paying attention to my points.

DH and I did South Beach and I lost about 19 lbs. in 6 weeks, but I was miserable. The first two weeks you can't have fruit or dairy and I was in tears, craving fruit so much. Carbs are out for that time, and then you gradually introduce complex carbs like fruit, etc.

We both lost a lot of weight, but slipped back into our old patterns quickly I still personally believe WW is the most logical. It is real-world eating. The ADA has put out new plans for what our portions should be; they use a plate as a guide. One thirds is veggies; I think one sixth was fruit and starch, and one third was protein. Not sure if this is correct, but it is logical.

Label reading and journaling is the no-cost way...jot down calories and fat content, as well as fiber content, of all that you eat. 25 grams of fiber per day, 25 grams of fat per day, no more than 2500 mg of sodium per day. I forgot what the protein portion is and the carb...I'm sure you can look that up.

It's all about portion control and aware eating...my problem is I read while I eat, not savoring the tastes and textures. Then I finish without realizing I ate...not a good habit.

Good luck...