robertl

First of all, I admire your agressive determination. That's a very important part of the lifestyle change you are proposing. But make sure you stay realistic.

I would REALLY reconsider 1000 calories per day. Your metabolism most likely will decrease or even shut down because of lack of energy. I've been where you are and have done that. Even though it's frustrating and takes longer, I would suggest cutting no more than 500-800 calories per day (experts say to cut even fewer). While the weight loss will be slower, youre metabolism should not decrease as dramatically. If you keep the exercise up, you'll be losing weight while keeping your body healthy. I think you'll feel better for it and you will be more likely to stay on the "program".

I lost a lot of weight recently, but I went on a low calorie diet to do it. After some time, I plateaued and the weight was hardly coming off because my body slowed down. Suprisingly, I bumped the calories up a bit and the weight is coming off at the same pace, but I feel much better for it. It also gives me the energy to exercise longer. In my opinion, for long term success for permanent weight loss, the exercise component is what will help the most. Cutting calories is obviously necessary to lose weight, but the hardest part is maintenance once weight is lost and exercise helps. Good luck.