Dropped over 80 lbs a few years ago doing the same things you are advocating.

It really is very easy once you get over the first week of adjustments.

From what you have written about your journey to lean I think I have a pretty good guess where you're research into the subject has taken you- the Vibrams Five fingers mention solidified it.

My blood work is now perfect, I take no meds and energy levels are higher than ever. Congrats on making it out of "Zombie-land" KD!