my husband needed to lose weight as his health was starting to deteriorate. We just decided that day that we would make an honest effort. In the last year, he's lost 85 lbs, and I've lost 20 lbs. Yes, men seem to lose easier, but yet he had a lot more to lose than I did. If you totally deprive yourself, you'll give up. I totally agree with MofromMonroe, more fruit, more veggies, salads, protein every meal, avoid junk. You know what junk is.... our worst time of day was evening, around 9pm munchie time. Try a Riccola throat losenge. If you dont crunch it, it can last a half hour or so, by then the craving is less, just go to bed. Or if you have to have salty things, try Special K chips. Count out 18 chips (see label), with a diet soda. Not toooo bad.
We only eat french fries on Friday nights when we go out to eat. We only have a "reward" desert on Saturday nights. The rest of the week, we're good.
Crave ice cream? measure out a half cup....
Moderation. dont deprive yourself too much, but change your habits. Use calories wisely. Drink lots of water/tea. Eat breakfast, but GOOD breakfast, eggs, oatmeal...
This is my best advice.