Welcome lexm! I am a 44 year old folder lover (Dahon Helios P8 converted to 66 gear inch singlespeed for now...) who at 5'6" went from 170 lbs to 146 lbs by following a Paleo Diet. The improvement in cycling came AFTER the weight loss.
I love the Strida - the design, simplicity, single purposeful intent, yet have someone tour the world on a Strida too! :-)
Post your adventures!