Hi there, congrats on starting your new life eating whole foods!

You can read the journals of those (like me) who are on SP, or something close to it, and see the daily changes and successes.

I don't count the carbs at all, but I've been eating whole foods for nearly 6 years now. I suggest taking a LONG time to read thru my journal to see the journey I've made to lose nearly 100 pounds at this point, and it should answer MOST of your questions.

I highly recommend reading her third book entitled Schwarzbein PRinciple: THE PROGRAM. It is a good easy read that gives a lot of info that the first book didn't. It also addresses exercise.

You might wish to also start a journal. Go to the BOOTCAMP section, journals and follow the links to start one.

Your best guide is the book itself and reading the journals of those of us who are following (to the most part) the program.

Best wishes, God bless your journey! --Betty

PS Just click the JOURNAL link in my post and it will take you to hundreds of posts to read thru, starting in 2002......