I am restarting a diet and excerise plan that was given to me a few months ago by my doctor and dietician (I'm type 2 diabetic) I was wondering if what I have so far will be effective, I own an elliptical and I plan on working out on it 4-5 days a week. Today I burned 530 calories in 30 minutes which is about what I burn every time I get on it. I am suppossed to be on a 1600 calorie diet but counting calories is highly unrealistic for me. So I have been making small changes and healthier choices. I am 5'6 and weigh 199 pounds.My BMI is 32.1. My doctor says that I need to lose at least 40- 50 pounds to be at a healthy weight and also get off my diabetes medication. Which is very important for me to do!! Any tips would be very helpful.