I think it has a lot to do with how you react.

My story:

I started Atkins and was 100% committed for 4 1/2 years. I never even THOUGHT about cheating. I went to weddings, movies, anything and never strayed.

I lost 65 lbs and kept it off. I would be the LAST person to ever think that I'd gain it all back again but one day here at my work I guy had a Key Lime Pie and offered me a slice. I would normally not take it and it wouldn't bother me but I said "what the hell? It can't hurt..just one"


From that point several years ago until just this year, I ate. I kept gaining and gaining weight. I couldn't get back on track to save my life.

I realized that I had to go back and start all over again and I learned something about myself. I can't cheat. It blurs the line for me and I end up rationalizing the next little cheat bite of something.

Other folks can do that...I can't. I have an addictive personality and I have to have clear, understandable out of bounds lines drawn.