I’ve been doing IF for 3 weeks now and reading here for most of that time, so thought that I would introduce myself. I’m a 40something year old woman in the US.

what I love about IF:
-the 10 lbs I’ve lost in the past 3 weeks! Also, I have a waist again!
-the way I feel in my body, on fast days and regular days
-my reaction to food has mysteriously shifted, from “have to have that” to enjoying it and eating in moderation
-it feels natural, not restrictive, and something I will be happy to continue for life.

what I love about this forum compared to other diet forums:
-people are supportive
-the diversity, with people from all over and of all ages
-the attitude is flexible. People seem open to trying different things (limiting carbs, not limiting carbs, alternate day fasting, 16:8, 500 cal on fast days, no cal on fast days, etc). On most forums I’ve seen there is one very specific way to eat or else you’re Doing It Wrong.
-there is a sensible, gentle moderate approach to the whole thing. Emphasis on patience and the long haul and realistic healthy goals

I have another 30 or 40 lbs to lose and am feeling very encouraged about the whole thing. Looking forward to joining in with the community here!