Oh sweetheart, don't be scared you're among friends now, some of us weirder than others but we don't bite, much... only when we're hungry...lol
We're here to support you and have broad shoulders for you to cry on, and hands to hold yours.. we do this together....
Keep writing in your journal they are great things to take part in...
We'll all pop in and encourage you.. and we'll kick your butt too when you need it.... Just scream help and someone will come running...
To answer your question, Do potatoes help?
OMG YES!!!! Potatoes are the best food ever created.. they have everything, taters are a superfood.. plus they're comforting..
First thing in the morning, microwave a few... that way you'll have some for snacks when you get cravings.. you can use them in a meal..
One of my tricks from one of the McDougall books is to slice the cold baked potato then griddle or dry fry it, no fat, just 'fry' the potato dry until they brown, then have some ketchup or your favourite BBQ sauce to dip in and it's just like eating fries... perfect comfort food...
I have about 80lbs to lose, I've lost 4.5 since Jan 2nd, it's my first week too.. but I have got normal blood sugars for the first time in a year.. this program is perfect, so satisfying in every way.
Keep it up, you'll be happy with it..
*hug*
Aran