Country: Tacoma, Washington, USA
Age: 41
Starting weight: 226.4 lbs.
Weight now: 190 lbs.
Target weight: 150 lbs.

Because of her vulnerability to insulin resistance, Melodee is on a lifestyle program similar to "Sugarbusters!" Eating smaller amounts of foods that are rich in sugar and choosing those that belong to the "good carbs" category are not only helping her lose weight. They're good for her insulin problems as well.

-What finally made you decide to start with a weight loss program, and how much did you weigh when you first started?
Several things. I saw a photograph of myself taken at a family party. I really had no idea I was so fat (just like Kirstie Alley!). Then, I went shopping for an Easter outfit. Nothing fit. I needed size 20 clothing, which I was not willing to buy.

Then, after I'd decided to start another diet, ClubMom.com asked me to write a blog. I chose to do a weight-loss blog. When I started my diet, I weighed 226.4 pounds.

-What type of weight loss program are you following?
I am following a low-glycemic index diet, which is similar to SugarBusters! I eliminated high-glycemic index foods from my diet, specifically sugar, refined flour, white potatoes and white rice.

-Why did you choose this type of weight loss program?
I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and thus, a predisposition to insulin resistance. I did some research and found that a low-glycemic index diet works for people with insulin issues.

-How long have you been on your weight loss program?
Three and a half months.

-What kinds of physical activities do you like doing to help you lose weight and stay fit?
I ride a recumbent exercise bike at home in the evenings. I'm planning to start weight-training at the YMCA in the fall. Other physical activities I like doing are walking and hiking.  But mostly I rely on a boring exercise bike at home because there is no excuse to not ride it.  It's never raining in my bedroom. 

-What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome or are still overcoming?
Making good choices even when surrounded by bad options.

-How do you keep yourself motivated?
My weight-loss blog (The Amazing Shrinking Mom) keeps me on track. Now I'm starting to see physical changes and positive attention, which helps.

-Do you have any weight loss tips for our readers?
Pick an eating program that you are willing to live with the rest of your life. Diet Naked--in other words, be accountable to the people in your world. Don't hide food and don't hide yourself. Don't kid yourself about what you're doing to your body and about how fat you are.

-Do you think it will be easy to fall back into your old lifestyle pattern? How do you prevent this from happening?
I'm making changes I can live with forever. I know that I can never relapse and let sugar back into my life. Maybe as a guest, but not as one who can stay overnight. One I meet in a safe location, probably, but not in my home. Again, I credit my blog with keeping me honest and true to my eating plan. I am accountable to over 500 daily readers now.

-Do you have a favorite Web site or blog that helps or inspires you to lose weight?
I love Tory over at www.msteechur.com and I've been a long time reader of The Skinny Daily Post. I am just now finding other sites that are helpful and when I do find them, I link to them on my own blog so I can find them again.