I counted carbs at first, but after getting used to understanding which veggies were good carbs and bad carbs, well it has been super easy to follow! And, the weight has come off easily enough. I don't track which level of the ladder I should be on, but do listen to my body and of course don't eat sugar and flour. You should definitely educate yourself on which plan is best for you...while I don't proclaim to be an expert on South Beach, I am also not an expert on Atkins. I just know when I ate low cal/low fat...well I was always hungry and while I did lose weight eating that way, I was miserable! Now, on Atkins I don't get hungry...ever and am now 157 pounds down and 10 to go. Research each eating style and pick the plan that suits you as an individual. Don't take our words or experiences...find out for yourself. Obviously, both plans work.