Although some folks advise moderation as the key to success, I've always been an "all or nothing at all" kind of person. At age 66, this is not likely to change. Therefore, there are certain foods I avoid entirely. I call it my "no" list. Since I've recently gained a few pounds, I thought it would be helpful to revisit my "no" list and add some I will no doubt have forgotten as I focus again on healthy living one day at a time. NO sugary desserts of any kind, no muffins, no bagels, no pizza, no bacon, no fried food (makes me sick, anyway). No high calorie bread, no real whipped cream or real half & half, no granulated sugar, no grapes, no dried fruit except raisins or craisins counted out as portions, no sugary sodas, no candy bars or pretzels.

Having named all these foods, I'll close by saying this leaves literally thousands of foods that I CAN eat. I often eat the same things daily because it's just easier to track my nutrition and I'm definitely a creature of habit. Nonetheless, just think of all the fruits I can eat: apples, peaches, bananas, strawberries, blueberries, etc.

I hope someone somewhere will appreciate my list. And no, it doesn't make me want to run right out and eat "forbidden fruit." My biggest problem is portion control. I own a food scale and I always read the nutritional labels on food. It's up to me to eat less to return to my goal weight and at my age, it may take a while. I've got time.

Best wishes to all.