  I was reading urlLink Bobby's Blog today, where he lamented on McDonald's announcement that it would be downsizing its menu by no longer offering the "super-size" option. I have to say that I am not the least bit surprised by this move. Burger King and Wendy's are already ahead of the game by offering alternatives to the traditional fry and a cola options in the meal deals. The way low-carb dieting has been catching fire across the country, McDonald's is poised to make a varietal coup among the dieting masses. As Ted the Seasoned McD's former employee said to me this morning, McDonald's usually doesn't scale back their menu unless they are planning to offer something new.
Personally, I don't believe in low-carb dieting; its a fad that will hopefully go away soon. From my personal experience, it only leads to an eventual stomach virus. I've "attempted" to do the Atkins thing and each time have gotten the "runs" within the first two weeks. Same thing happened to Ted. Sure, I lost weight, but I felt denied because I couldn't even eat the veggies I enjoy (I LOVE CARROTS!). For me, the stomach problems and the restriction were too much for me and Binge City quickly insued.
Sionara Dr. Atkins. Another reason I hate low-carb diets: it doesn't make any sense. Veggies, fiber, and other complex carbs are essential to our diet and should never be eradicated (fiber = happy colon). These types of carbs provide immediate reacting, long-burning fuel for our bodies to function. Simple carbs, like sugar, white potatoes, and refined flour products, break down quickly causing spikes in blood sugar levels leading a person to feel really energetic, then extermely drained in a short period of time. These are the carbs we usually overindulge in, not the others. Currently, I am working to reduce (not eradicate) my simple carb intake, while increasing my complex carb AND protein intake. This must also be coupled with portion control, low-fat preparation, and exercise (for calorie burn) for effectiveness.
I'm attempting more of a lifestyle change than anything else. I think it's vitally important for our mental health to not restrict anything from a diet. I believe restricting food translates to starvation in a dieter's mind. We have a tendency to fixate on what we can't have to the point that we binge. As a "diet" is not something one goes on, but a lifetime eating style, I think it is important to train ourselves to properly treat ourselves to sugars and candy without the worry of overindulgence. It's also important to train ourselves to separate our emotions from the food we favor for our overindulgence.
This is what I am working on right now. I have learned to identify when I feel stressed, I crave chocolate. Having that knowledge, I've been able to refocus my outlet from food to some other endeavor. We shall see how successful this method will be. 
