One of the biggest challenges for those of us who have spent years as "failed dieters" isn't actually the food.

It's the food noise.

The constant chatter that seems to run through your head all day long.

"What should I eat next?"

"How many calories are in this?"

"I know I should eat that... but I really want this."

"Why do I keep eating this rubbish?"

"Chocolate... I see chocolate... I must eat chocolate!"

Perhaps your food noise sounds a little different, but if you've struggled with your weight for years, you'll probably recognise that endless internal conversation.

I often debate with myself about which is the most important of the 12 steps of the Tortoise Diet Method. I find it depends where I am in life at the time. So right now, my favourite step, and one which distinguished this Method from so many others is, Guideline Number 12. Which is to Stay in the Race.