I just watched a Dateline NBC program where there were 5 high school classmates getting ready to attend their 25th reunion and they all embarked a different diets. Some were more successful than others but collectively they lost 187 lbs. The key measures of success were support of others - family and the other dieters and those who did DAILY exercise lost most and the third factor was those who made the lifestyle changes to get there. The one lady who lost 50lbs and reached her goal weight said that when she made time for herself and her exercise was when she was most productive. No one followed the food plan 100% but all of them said moderation in cheating was key