Hi, I was one of those who cut out food completely and did Lighter life. I lost 3st 2lbs, and put over 4st back on! I did it by not banishing my old eating habits and as I am bored a lot of the time, I ate a lot of the time. My excuse was "but I am hungry and my stomach is rumbling a bit" so I would eat.
With this diet I am eating proper food with (some) carbs, a lot of protein, and some fat in it. The protein helps me stay fuller for longer. A 200g chicken breast at 240 calories will keep me feeling fuller than a 200g (ie small) jacket potato at roughly the same amount. I feel that with a bit of willpower and sensible planning, there is no reason why I can't continue to eat this way (ie with my three main meals more protein based thus hopefully eliminating snacking in-between meals and just dealing with the 'boredom compulsion').
I am eating between 1100-1200 calories per day including one shake. I can honestly say that I have 'hardly ever' been ravenous. If I was on a conventional 1100-1200 calorie diet I would have used all my calories by lunchtime and still been starving.
I am still having the odd treat inbetween meals but because I am eating the treat while I am not hungry, I have not felt compelled to eat more of them and find it easier to say "NO!" when that little voice in my head tells me to get another one.
I am used to smaller portion sizes now, and know what 'being satisfied' feels like, previously I would have really stuffed myself like a pig all day until I felt bloated and sick.
So, I do think that it will be easier to keep the weight off with this plan, as I have done everything they tell you do to which is mainly reduce your portion sizes.