Please understand the way the low-carb diet works. Carbs are used by the body as it's primary fuel. The body burns carbs as long as it can get them and stores the fat. Take the carbs away and the body switches to burning the fat that it has been storing. Fat burned means weight lost. Simple. I lost 50 lbs and am keeping it off even though after I got to my desired weight I am able to injoy a few of my favorite carb foods without gaining. Just watch the scales and switch off the carbs if I see a lb coming back. Best diet ever and I will stay on it for the rest of my life.
Good for you!!
It's not that I don't believe low-carb diets can work, it's just that I think even then it comes down to calories--calories in versus calories out. You're right, carbs are very caloric in nature, so cutting down on them does help!
What has worked for me in the past was eating in moderation (I actually did limit my carbs too due to calorie concerns) and exercising for at least 45 minutes at least 4 days a week. I've pretty much fallen out of discipline tho' (agh).