samina,

Sorry about the book being the wrong one.

I really shouldn't be trying to answer your question about how long it took to get to goal, since I am not there yet.

I can tell you that the amount of weight I have lost in a year is fantastic. I know that I have lost over 50 lbs., and actually enjoy following my program every single day.

I feel as if I have complete control over my eating and that is extremely liberating for me.

I certainly hope this way of eating works well for you too!