There are more astounding success stories in the book - hope he read it all before beginning. I was asked to buy a copy for a friend who couldn't get one. I started reading it because I had nothing else to read on the train, and she's still waiting for her copy!

It's like the slogan for not smoking - never give up giving up.

If the cold turkey thing is impossible, and that's the most difficult bit of induction, breaking the cycle of addiction (or habit - I ate potatoes with a meal because that's what you were supposed to do) to various foodstuffs, then cut certain things out on a weekly basis. One week do without spuds, then take away pasta, then bread, until you have reached the level you want to be at.

I did away with Induction and went straight to Maintenance stage 1, where I've lost a stone or more and feel a darn sight better.

Take it easy at first, make sure you eat enough to feel satisfied and the rest will follow.

Good luck!

LTS