I am a 30 year old, happily married, mother of 2 boys ages 7 and 9. About 6 months ago the doctor told me my bad cholesterol was a little to high but could probably be managed by cutting out a couple animal items a week. After 6 months my bad cholesterol rose significantly due to weight gain caused by stress. She suggested trying to diet and lose at least 20 lbs along with cutting out some animal items, eating more fruits and veggies, and eat leaner cuts of meat when I do eat meat. If after 3 months my cholesterol hasn't went down at all then I will be put on medicine. I DON'T want to be put on medicine so I'm really giving this diet a chance. I'm also trying to call this a change of lifestyle not a diet because these changes I'm making will hopefully be for good.