I began a 'diet' of sorts when I was diagnosed with MS. I had read about the Swank diet, and the 2 main points I took away were: no red meat, extremely low Saturated and Trans fats (15g max daily).

So, doing a little shopping, I realized "hey, following these 2 points of the diet will not be bad at all!". So that's what I've been doing for nearly 1 month now since I got all settled in my new apartment.

I was about 140 (maybe more?) pounds when I began eating with the 2 key points in mind (I'm not following Swank to a t...just the no red meat, low fats tips). I am feeling better, more energy.

I lost 10 pounds approximately. 130 seems to be what I'm hovering around.

My ideal would be 125. I'm 5'2 inches, so just a shorty. But be darned if I can lose the last 5! LOL. I walk (no car). I keep myself busy cleaning my apartment twice weekly, which gets me moving around a lot. I'm not 'inactive'.

Why are these last 5 pounds so difficult to lose?!

Hi Laura!!
I am 5'1"......oh to be your weight you lucky gal!!!
I do not know anything about the swank diet so I am unsure on what advice to give you. Usually when I am at a standstill I eat less carbs and more lean protien...that seems to kickstart something....however I am at a very unhealthy weight right now so my advice may not be the best!!! I am sure that more people will respond soon!!! Best of luck with shedding those last 5!

Well the Swank diet does not discourage carbs. In fact, you don't have to count the fats in breads as part of the diet because breads are generally so low in fats. I just eat whole wheat or whole grains, never white bread.

It's more discouraging the fats. Which ultimately is a good way to go about eating. Lower fats = going to be much healthier in the long run.

I've just heard so many mention that they've lost weight on this 'diet' (I use the term 'diet' loosely since I came in focusing on eating well, not 'dieting' per se).

Yeah, I think patience is just the key now.

It also comes down to age, frame size, muscle tone..
there is usually a good range in the acceptable weight to height ratio.

I really think I need to work on this now!