Healthy Weight Loss

[girl_dee]

If anyone is doing the Weight Watchers stuff, and even if you aren't i've loved this site for years..maybe you already know about it but it's one of the few that Weight Watchers hasn't sued for listing food points..

www.DWLZ.com

it's free and full of info an inspiration.

[PrudenceJuris]

I try not to stress eat. I pack healthy snacks..... I do really well at the beginning of the week. And then Friday comes. And all of my deadlines stack up. And. Well. Crap. ... Someone brings doughnuts. And someone else orders pizza. And I can smell the pizza. See the donuts. Actually HEAR the FOOD CALLING TO ME. ... Ok, maybe that's just the low growl of my stomach...... argh! ... Xanax and salad. Seems like a reasonable combo right? Cute little pill taken like an after dinner mint... keeps me going... almost keeps me out of the McD's drive thru........ OK, ranting doesn't seem to be helping. Maybe I'll go for a walk...

I am struggling with the whole stress eating situation!!! :explode::wtf::furious:

I find I have terrible trouble late night/wee hours of morning when I'm trying to focus and read for class. I've tried limiting myself to water or other no calorie drinks, but that doesn't "do it" for me, and very shortly I'm snacking on anything especially the crunchy/salty snacks. I'm also trying to brush my teeth, but when I find myself fighting sleep than I just go to bed then. I know I need more sleep, but it is soooo hard to shut down my brain to relax and rest. Anyway, I'll give it another try tonight here's hoping for a return to sanity.

[*Anya*]

If anyone is low carbing: I was craving "regular" food so bad so my dad who is an experimenter came up with the best pizza!

I am sure you have heard of the cauliflower crust pizza? Well try spaghetti squash instead; just keep it kinda thin. It is freakin delicious and it gets rid of my craving for bad stuff.



This intrigued me! I found a number of web sites with recipes for this pizza crust. It is higher in fat if you are on a low-fat diet but is low in carbs. I think I may give this a try!

I do try to use only egg whites and may substitute egg whites for the whole eggs, which would decrease the fat/saturated fat content.

Spaghetti Squash Pizza Crust Recipe

Makes 8 servings

pizza crust

Ingredients
3 cups spaghetti squash, cooked
1 1/2 cups cheese, shredded
2 eggs

Directions:

Remove liquid from squash. add eggs and cheese and mix well.
Press into 9 X 13" glass baking dish and bake at 350 for 10 minutes
(I bake longer). add cheese, veggie, meat or whatever you like and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until golden brown.


Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 70.1g
Amount Per Serving
Calories 113
From Fat 75

% Daily Value*
Total Fat 8.3g13%
Saturated Fat 4.8g24%
Trans Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 69mg23%
Sodium 153mg6%
Total Carbohydrates 2.9g1%
Sugars 0.1g
Protein 6.9g
Vitamin A 6% • Vitamin C 1%
Calcium 17% • Iron 2%

* Based on a 2000 calorie diet

Nutritional details are an estimate and should only be used as a guide for approximation.

Good points
Very low in sugar
High in calcium
High in phosphorus

Read more: http://caloriecount.about.com/spaghetti-squash-pizza-crust-recipe-r64894#ixzz1nUSuKVCg

[JustJo]

Good morning healthies :)

Well my scale is still stuck, but I'm not going to complain. My body is definitely changing shape and muscles I haven't used (and in some cases didn't know I had) are toning up and getting stronger.

My pants are looser...even my pajamas...some of them to the point of bagginess and hanging on me.

So...staying the course....working out 3 times a week, drinking lots of water, generally sticking to my healthier diet....just my new way of being me. :cheesy:

I hear you on the stress eating Prudence...that's my trickiest situation and time of day. I have found crunching helps....anything that makes lots of noise and takes lots of chewing....celery, carrots, cucumber, radishes, jicama (which is also kind of starchy sweet and satisfies a little of the sweet tooth somehow).

Hugs to you all!

[Dominique]

This intrigued me! I found a number of web sites with recipes for this pizza crust. It is higher in fat if you are on a low-fat diet but is low in carbs. I think I may give this a try! SNIP


A great crust-less pizza, and you're going to say *why didn't I think of that?* I know I thought that when I saw this at whole foods on the hot bar!

Take the large portabella mushrooms (I marinate mine in lite italian dressing for a min. or so, so they don't burn) and you decide, cap up or cap down on a grill or grill pan (both work well) then just make them up as small pizza's. OMG! They are so good.

[Medusa]

STUCK! My scales are stuck! They've been stuck for over a month now with the same 4 pounds. Granted, I am eating more junky foods that I should and not moving enough.

This week, one of my girlfriends and I are going to make 3 dates to work out together. There's a great facility in town where we get a work discount (only $17 a month when it usually costs over $80!).

This place has all the equipment you could want, an indoor track, a pool, and even a sauna/steamroom. We're excited and I'm ready to send this 4 pounds into oblivion!!

[DapperButch]

Another stuck scale here.

Going to pay better attention to portions, even though I am mostly eating healthy.

[Liam]

When that scale is stuck, increasing your water intake daily by at least 12 oz, quite often helps getting over that plateau.

I'm very glad that I take measurements, in addition to weighing myself weekly. Measurements are a crude way of tracking fat loss, which I'm more concerned about, than my actual weight. There were some weeks when I lost only one pound but I lost almost four inches, so between the two, I am able to keep from getting discouraged. The past four weeks have been difficult for me, but I lost four pounds and 5.25".

I am now able to wear slacks that I couldn't a year ago, I feel great.

[girl_dee]

late night muncher here, i find i sleep well when i've had a little cereal or crackers and milk before bed, but i know it's bad.


i read Oprah's weight loss book long ago and she was at a plateu, her coach had her not eat after 6. She still ate the same amount, just not after 6 except for water and one piece of fruit. It worked, she said it started dropping like crazy.

Just food for thought.

[Tawse]

Decided to make the "mushroom lasagna" into a decadent indulgence Sunday evening meal.. and here's what I got.

Decided to instead of trying to make the portabella into "noodles" - to just fill each cap with the makings of a mini lasagna. So I got some marinara, skim ricotta, chicken sausage (apple and maple flavor), and 4 cheese reduced fat mix... Total calories per cap: 330.

Here they are prepared before cooking. I did: Cap, Marinara, Ricotta, Sausage, Marinara, Cheese sprinkles.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v649/BearTawse/MushroomLasagnaPreCook-FullIngrediants.jpg

Then I stuck 'em in the oven for about 35 minutes on 300.

For the rest of the meal I made a side salad with carrots, cucumbers, peppers, grape tomatoes (38 cal) and a light ranch dressing (80 cal), a slice of lite garlic toast (130 cal), a 10 ounce skinny desert pear margarita (glass shown +1 refill) (245 cal), and a snack cup of sugar free tapioca pudding (70 cal).

All told = 893 calories.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v649/BearTawse/MushroomLasagnaMeal-FinalPresentation.jpg


Final verdict - AWESOME! Though I will look for ground sausage next time instead of links (they didn't have any low cal ground at the Publix and I was in a hurry).

If you want to have a dinner where you feel you are spoiling yourself - but you don't want to tip the scales in the calorie department - this is a great dinner! And it was easy to prepare! About 15 minutes prep and 30 minutes oven time.

[Kelt]

Hey Healthies!

It's been quite a while since I was in. I figured an update was in order.

Fortunately there isn't much to report. I have now been primarily in maintenance going into month 5 now. For a while I was afraid of taking any days off from exercise for fear of possible regaining. After having tried it several times now, I take off a few days every couple of weeks without any problem or gain.

It's great to see how well everyone is doing. I still read the thread regularly and keep up with you all.

Keep up the great work!

:theisland:

[sylvie]

Good Morning Healthies ♥

A day off for me - finally!
And a gym day, for sure.. i am heading there this afternoon.. i have a Body Combat class at 530 and a Zumba class at 630, yaaay!!
Also need to do my running for my running program.. i do this 3 times a week.

Today, i am thinking about taking some progress pictures, it's something i haven't been doing and had it in my head that i would wait until i got to whatever my desired weight would be... However, kind of changing my mind on that..

Last night *this will sound SO silly, LOL* but i was getting changed and i caught sight of my backside in the mirror, and i actually stopped and admired it before pulling on my pants... i actually haven't LOOKED at my backside since 315 lbs, and at 223 (last weigh in) i am amazed at the difference.. And after i got dressed, i had to go back and admire it again - though i feel completely silly saying so, it's more about the fact i was admiring my bare hiney and LIKING what i see.. Such a huge difference, and finally feeling proud of myself for what i have accomplished so far, that felt amazing.. i was teary-eyed and completely thankful no one caught me.. It *must* have been a sight!! heheh...

i still really struggle with looking in the mirror and seeing the 315 lb girl looking back at me, very hard to shake that mentality off (if i ever will) so love that i am finding ways to celebrate my accomplishments! Especially where i still have a ways to go, but it will motivate me to keep going & no worries, NO backside pictures LOL!

Hope you are all too! Go check out your bare backsides!
hehehe...

love to you all - have a healthy day!
And for those of you who have plateau'd, so proud of you for looking at it positively.. and recognizing the changes in your body, because i know it can be so easy to get discouraged, but it's important to see the changes are still happening and eventually you will move off that plateau.. You are either building muscle, or your body needs a little more of a change, whatever the case it *will* happen! i moved off my plateau and i'm sure i'll hit more.. Just keep going!!

♥

[Tawse]

I strongly strongly STRONGLY recommend progress pictures.

There are just days where you don't see it, don't feel it, all your friends will sound "rehearsed" (not their fault) and there's just nothing like hard cold pictures to show the truth.

Even if they're one of the hardest things you'll do at the beginning lol.

[sylvie]

It's true Tawse, it will be one of the hardest things to do..
i was such a hider, at my highest weight, i would take pictures that were face shots only.. and it's been a slow progress in finally allowing pictures of my full body.. That shame and embarrassment i still carry around with me.. (& these things are SO hard to admit, sometimes but i'm a firm believer in hard honesty to work through stuff like this...) helps me forgive myself.

And soooo trying to shake that off still - i am still petrified of how people look at me, and if they'll laugh at me or are judging me - and i know that all comes from the negative mindset i was in (and currently still trying to work through).. Hell, looking in the mirror is progress for me.. i used to look at one certain area at a time, never a full look myself up and down lookover.. But now i can look myself over, and actually admire that image looking back at me, and that feels great!

While i'm SO stinkin' proud of the weight i've lost so far, it's hard to not get caught up in that mumbo jumbo and i need to stop - definitely trying! So it's about taking small steps to win the love for myself back, and trust that i am so deserving of this..

That step feels huge though! But, i'm going to do it, because you are right, the pictures will show the truth and hopefully will help me celebrate my ass off!

[Tawse]

Another thing I recommend - but is very hard due to the idiocity of the medical field...


Getting your blood taken at the beginning of your weight loss. Running a complete blood eval.

Then checking it once a year after.

I know my triglycerides were above 300 before I started my 100 pound weight loss back in 2006... by the end of the first year my triglycerides were down to 35. That's it. Thirty-Freakin-Five.

Those are results that don't lie. Those are results that tell you that you ARE saving your own life... and damn they're fun to brag about ;) lol

[sylvie]

Another thing I recommend - but is very hard due to the idiocity of the medical field...


Getting your blood taken at the beginning of your weight loss. Running a complete blood eval.

Then checking it once a year after.

I know my triglycerides were above 300 before I started my 100 pound weight loss back in 2006... by the end of the first year my triglycerides were down to 35. That's it. Thirty-Freakin-Five.

Those are results that don't lie. Those are results that tell you that you ARE saving your own life... and damn they're fun to brag about ;) lol

i completely love that idea Tawse, thank you! Wish i would have done something like that at the very beginning, though i'm sure my doctor could tell me where i was in the beginning when she was almost begging me to help myself..

i do know being off my high blood pressure medication is such a win.. i'm still beaming from that one, truly..and feeling healthier overall, the end to the aches & pains , the shortness of breath, all the different things i struggled with so much.. i will be seeing the doctor in the next few weeks!

And 35, wow..just wow!
Thank you for the positive encouragement & suggestions.. That is truly why i *LOVE* this thread & checking in with you all..

:awww:

[deedarino]

Good Morning Healthies ♥

Last night *this will sound SO silly, LOL* but i was getting changed and i caught sight of my backside in the mirror, and i actually stopped and admired it before pulling on my pants... i actually haven't LOOKED at my backside since 315 lbs, and at 223 (last weigh in) i am amazed at the difference.. And after i got dressed, i had to go back and admire it again - though i feel completely silly saying so, it's more about the fact i was admiring my bare hiney and LIKING what i see.. Such a huge difference, and finally feeling proud of myself for what i have accomplished so far, that felt amazing.. i was teary-eyed and completely thankful no one caught me.. It *must* have been a sight!! heheh...

♥

Not silly at all. Doesn't it feel so wonderful to finally have a part of your body feel good? Hot, sexy, dayum good :-) I don't know about you but I had nothing on my body that I felt that way about when I was at my highest weight. In fact, I felt kinda hopeless about ever being sexy again.

About a 6 months ago I moved into an older historical building, upstairs. The stairs are high and steep. Moving in sucked (but that's another story). About a month ago, I just happened to catch a glimpse of my behind and holy crap...was I surprised! The daily stair routine has been doing some great work, all while I wasn't looking. I became extremely motivated to finish the job; I thought if just stairs could do this what about walking? What about working out, what about...? I am back on a plan, and this time have added the workout. For the first time in a very long time, I see results and have more than hope :-)

Admiring your body can help give you the motivation to take better care of it.

[Medusa]

Back on track!!

Feeling ALIVE today and planning to walk after work.

How many calories does chair dancing burn? Lol

[girl_dee]

it's only a couple of pounds i'm sure but my pants felt a LOT better when i put them on today as opposed to just a week ago

when you are short a few pounds makes a BIG difference :)

i am tracking everything on the Fitness Pal App and wow what a nice way to check in to see if you are on track or not. Everything is listed you just find what you want and hit *add*, even calculates your sugars etc and whether they are within the daily guidelines

[deedarino]

Spaghetti Squash Pizza Crust Recipe

Makes 8 servings

pizza crust

Ingredients
3 cups spaghetti squash, cooked
1 1/2 cups cheese, shredded
2 eggs


It really is amazing and I am sure you could lower the amount of cheese. My dad adds parmesan. You could even use a low fat cheese.

[Medusa]

WEE.

So I ate two processed dinners today but sometimes when you're busy you just have to do what you do.

This was my menu today:

Egg "McMuffin" for breakfast made with:
100 calorie Thomas english muffin
Turkey sausage patty
1/4 c egg beaters with black pepper and basil

Snack:
Banana
Spicy V8

Lunch:
Healthy Choice meal
Sugar Free chocolate pudding

Snack:
Fuji Apple

Dinner:
Healthy choice meal


I walked for 25 minutes after work at a brisk pace and my legs are hurting!

[Breathless]

Back on track!!

Feeling ALIVE today and planning to walk after work.

How many calories does chair dancing burn? Lol

depends on if there is someone sitting on the chair underneath you *winks*

[Strappie]

I got off track this past weekend :( ... I'm back on track today!!

[JoSchmooze]

I have not posted on this thread as of yet....but here I go!

Last month I had a trip from Spokane to Berlin, Germany then home again for three days before I was off to my annual company meeting, which is actually a three-day cruise to the Bahamas.

The trip to Berlin, Germany was for work and included getting into a van with 5 men crammed into a van and me. Surprisingly, I was the smallest of the group. Just from the 9 1/2 hour flight over and the terrible weather both my legs were aching and my knees were just unbearably stiff and sore. It took me the whole 3 days that I was at home before I went on my cruise to be able to get the swelling in my ankles down. But since I had to take another flight from Phoenix, Arizona through Charlotte to Miami there was another 7 hours straight basically sitting still in coach. The whole time I was on the cruise I was uncomfortable with my legs hurting and the swelling in my ankles. Some of you will remember that I had that issue during the reunion.


As soon as I got back to Arizona I looked up the Tucson Medical Weight loss clinic and I went ahead
and made an appointment
to see what this hCG diet was all about.
I am now taking daily hCG tablets and I am down to approximately 500 cal per day. Since February 3, I have lost a total of 23 pounds. I have my 1st follow-up checkup at the end of this week and I am hoping to have lost a couple more pounds by then. Already I am no longer taking Vicodin on a daily basis and my blood pressure has been normal every day since the start of this. I am told that I should hit my goal weight sometime in June of this year if I am vigilant and stay on the diet. My breathing is not so labored, I am actually already doing 45 min. a day on on a recombinant stationary bicycle and every other day I'm doing 30 min. light weights training.

I hope to be posting here periodically to let you know how everything is going. Also I'm trying to give up smoking, but I think I'll lose all the weight first and then give that a go. I am down to 6 to 7 cigarettes a day where I used to smoke at least a pack to a pack and a half a day.

Well done to those of you who are on the road to healthy weight loss! I hope to be counted amongst all of us who have lost weight when we see each other again at the reunion.

:cigar2:

[JoSchmooze]

For those of you who don't like drinking water..

i learned a fun 'lil tip.. Fill an ice cube tray with some berries, and then pour lemon juice to fill each one.. Freeze them and drop one into your water for flavoring.. They're kinda cute to look at to, floating around in your water, heh..

i love berry flavors & lemon flavors..
Watched Dr Oz today, neat little trick i thought...

Another trick...
If you can find fresh strawberries,
pick out 6 medium to large strawberries,
chunk 'em up and adda little water and ice cubes,
blend in a blender and you have a wonderful
strawberry slushie as an afternoon snack!


They call it Perfect Meatloaf Pan....but there are generic versions out there now too. :)

You can find it on the "As Seen on TV.com"
website...Jest saying....

I am struggling with the whole stress eating situation!!! :explode::wtf::furious:

I find I have terrible trouble late night/wee hours of morning when I'm trying to focus and read for class. I've tried limiting myself to water or other no calorie drinks, but that doesn't "do it" for me, and very shortly I'm snacking on anything especially the crunchy/salty snacks. I'm also trying to brush my teeth, but when I find myself fighting sleep than I just go to bed then. I know I need more sleep, but it is soooo hard to shut down my brain to relax and rest. Anyway, I'll give it another try tonight here's hoping for a return to sanity.

Melatonin works for me when I can't sleep...
And it is all natural....

:cigar2:

[Leigh]

Well tomorrow is the very first day that I go back to gym after being away 3 weeks due to trying to get rid of the bronchitis that I had for awhile and while I'm really nervous I'm also kind of excited too. I have to admit that even those times when I would rather not go and deal with weights and such, those are the days that I need them more than anything. Getting and staying motivated are really hard things for me to do but I just have to keep going and know that I am finally working towards being where I wanna be and that's in a healthier lifestyle that includes losing weight and actually having a life (something that I haven't really ever had before).

I've also already made an appointment with my disability worker next week so that I can start getting ready to hopefully find a job, because I really just need to get the ball rolling. I will be turning 32 years old next month and I don't have anything to show for it, so I figure its time to show the world that there is someone who wants to be part of everyday life and that I will no longer use my past excuses to stay hidden in the shadows. I have an opinion, I have a right to be in the moment and I certainly have every right to have a life of my own ~ I'm reaching for the stars and I will not stop until I have succeeded in everything I set my mind out to do :-)

[PrudenceJuris]

Hey Healthies!!!

I got a diagnosis today of borderline diabetic. It didn't strike me as hard to hear or even serious. I thought well this isn't so terrible right? It isn't cancer, and its not a terminal disease so what's the big deal? As the day went on I kept coming back to ask myself the question why doesn't this diagnosis concern me? Others see it as a serious situation to the point that they are worried about my health... how is that possible?? I'm not sick... or am I? Isn't my body trying to tell me to pay attention? What will it take for me to choose me?? In recovery they say the first step to healing is to acknowledge there is a problem.

Well folks I'm here to say I have a problem. I am on the verge of diabetes and all the side-effects of that disease. I need to recognize this is a serious life threatening condition. I have 3 months to make positive lifestyle changes before I go back for blood tests again. I know I've made a great beginning by coming to this thread and seeking the love/support/encouragement each of you offer. The next thing is to join Weight Watchers to get on a consistent food plan. I have a good start on working out, but I am eager to find a buddy for real time workouts in the East Bay of Northern California. If you know anyone and can make a connection please do that... really I need a workout buddy!!!

Thank you all for being here and all that you do for me, and each other.

[Tawse]

Couple of things - up to 18.5 pounds lost now. Yay!


And for those interested, the mushroom lasagna caps mentioned above - nuke VERY well for left over lunches. :D


That is all!


Hope everyone has a great and healthy day!!

[Gemme]

I have not posted on this thread as of yet....but here I go!

Last month I had a trip from Spokane to Berlin, Germany then home again for three days before I was off to my annual company meeting, which is actually a three-day cruise to the Bahamas.

The trip to Berlin, Germany was for work and included getting into a van with 5 men crammed into a van and me. Surprisingly, I was the smallest of the group. Just from the 9 1/2 hour flight over and the terrible weather both my legs were aching and my knees were just unbearably stiff and sore. It took me the whole 3 days that I was at home before I went on my cruise to be able to get the swelling in my ankles down. But since I had to take another flight from Phoenix, Arizona through Charlotte to Miami there was another 7 hours straight basically sitting still in coach. The whole time I was on the cruise I was uncomfortable with my legs hurting and the swelling in my ankles. Some of you will remember that I had that issue during the reunion.


As soon as I got back to Arizona I looked up the Tucson Medical Weight loss clinic and I went ahead
and made an appointment
to see what this hCG diet was all about.
I am now taking daily hCG tablets and I am down to approximately 500 cal per day. Since February 3, I have lost a total of 23 pounds. I have my 1st follow-up checkup at the end of this week and I am hoping to have lost a couple more pounds by then. Already I am no longer taking Vicodin on a daily basis and my blood pressure has been normal every day since the start of this. I am told that I should hit my goal weight sometime in June of this year if I am vigilant and stay on the diet. My breathing is not so labored, I am actually already doing 45 min. a day on on a recombinant stationary bicycle and every other day I'm doing 30 min. light weights training.

I hope to be posting here periodically to let you know how everything is going. Also I'm trying to give up smoking, but I think I'll lose all the weight first and then give that a go. I am down to 6 to 7 cigarettes a day where I used to smoke at least a pack to a pack and a half a day.

Well done to those of you who are on the road to healthy weight loss! I hope to be counted amongst all of us who have lost weight when we see each other again at the reunion.

:cigar2:

Hey, Jo, and congrats on your road to better health!

I have one question and maybe I'm reading it wrong, but did you say you are only consuming 500 calories a day? Or do you mean that you're taking in 500 calories LESS per day?

Thanks!

[Deborah]

Hey, Jo, and congrats on your road to better health!

I have one question and maybe I'm reading it wrong, but did you say you are only consuming 500 calories a day? Or do you mean that you're taking in 500 calories LESS per day?

Thanks!

Gemme I have known a few people on the Hcg diet and it is 500 calories a day....which to me isnt healthy or realistic to keep up.

[Novelafemme]

Hey, Jo, and congrats on your road to better health!

I have one question and maybe I'm reading it wrong, but did you say you are only consuming 500 calories a day? Or do you mean that you're taking in 500 calories LESS per day?

Thanks!

I'm not Jo, Gemme, but, yes, the HCG diet works so well because you only consume 500 calories a day. Most of that is super high protein foods (100 grams a day) so you build muscle at the same time you shed the weight. There is a new form of it with the sublingual drops and 1,000 calories a day that I have also heard good things about.

I have never been an advocate of pill diets, or even "diets" in general, but this one has worked miracles for people who have struggled their whole lives. And, it seems VERY safe...which I can't say for many diets out there. If you are too large to manage a work out regimen, then this diet helps you lose enough initial weight so that you can begin exercising effectively.

[Gemme]

Gemme I have known a few people on the Hcg diet and it is 500 calories a day....which to me isnt healthy or realistic to keep up.

Okay, thanks. I wanted to make sure I was reading it right before I got too concerned.

Now, I can safely begin my concern.

Be safe, Jo, and if you feel lightheaded, EAT.

[Novelafemme]

I'll admit that I was TOTALLY freaked out when my best friend started it. In fact, I got really upset until I did some research on my own. The thing you have to remember is this is NOT a diet for someone who wants to shed a couple of unwanted pounds. The target audience is the morbidly obese. My BF can spend two hours + on the elliptical a day, jog 5 miles, and eat healthy and not lose a single pound. He is just a big guy. But, he also has an enlarged heart so it is detrimental to his health that he lose 30-50lbs. And now he is actually making progress AND he isn't starving. The key is all the protein you are consuming. No dairy, No sugar, and very few carbs. Once you wean off the carbs your body starts to consume all the extra fat you have stored.

[Gemme]

I'm not Jo, Gemme, but, yes, the HCG diet works so well because you only consume 500 calories a day. Most of that is super high protein foods (100 grams a day) so you build muscle at the same time you shed the weight. There is a new form of it with the sublingual drops and 1,000 calories a day that I have also heard good things about.

I have never been an advocate of pill diets, or even "diets" in general, but this one has worked miracles for people who have struggled their whole lives. And, it seems VERY safe...which I can't say for many diets out there. If you are too large to manage a work out regimen, then this diet helps you lose enough initial weight so that you can begin exercising effectively.

I don't know if there will ever be a time when I might say that a calorie consumption of 500 is safe. Our bodies need a certain amount of caloric intake to process. Not for anything other than just being the organs they are and doing what each organ does. I'm a little over 5 feet tall and I have a moderate amount of movement per day. I know that, in order for my body to function....not to lose weight or gain weight or anything other than to keep chugging along....that I need to consume about 900-1000 calories per day. On days that I perform more physical output I need more. Besides the physical part of it, I could imagine that that strict of a caloric diet could trigger some folks.

So, I see the benefits of it on a short term basis, strictly physically speaking. Like you mentioned, it could be a very good kickstart for really stubborn bodies.

I'd be more interested in reading more about the 1000 calorie diet. That is something that I might consider for a short term kick or if I get to a plateau.

Thanks for the info!

[Gemme]

I'll admit that I was TOTALLY freaked out when my best friend started it. In fact, I got really upset until I did some research on my own. The thing you have to remember is this is NOT a diet for someone who wants to shed a couple of unwanted pounds. The target audience is the morbidly obese. My BF can spend two hours + on the elliptical a day, jog 5 miles, and eat healthy and not lose a single pound. He is just a big guy. But, he also has an enlarged heart so it is detrimental to his health that he lose 30-50lbs. And now he is actually making progress AND he isn't starving. The key is all the protein you are consuming. No dairy, No sugar, and very few carbs. Once you wean off the carbs your body starts to consume all the extra fat you have stored.

I agree that we all could do with less dairy and sugar and simple carbs.

I'm glad your friend has had success with it, but I still can't see it as something more than a temporary thing. On the long term, I'd totally go postal.

:|

[Novelafemme]

I agree that we all could do with less dairy and sugar and simple carbs.

I'm glad your friend has had success with it, but I still can't see it as something more than a temporary thing. On the long term, I'd totally go postal.

:|

Right...me too. Once you lose 30-50lbs and begin incorporating more exercise you can up your calories. Again, I am so NOT recommending this to anyone. I have just seen first hand that it is working really well for my BF. :)

[Gemme]

I get occasional emails from LiveStrong and I got this one a few minutes ago. For those who use trainers or are considering getting one and/or go to a gym, I think this might be helpful.

Does the Gym Make You Fail?

When I was 13 years old I had my first experience with a personal trainer. Some might think I was too young for one-on-one training and what I needed was to spend more time running outside and less time grabbing seconds (and thirds) of my mom’s Rice Krispie treats. At the time, I was a playing a lot of tennis and my body was routinely failing me. I wanted to improve, so naturally a trainer seemed like a good solution.

It was one the best decisions I ever made as a young athlete. That summer I became faster, stronger, and a better tennis player. Unfortunately, I was also terribly lazy, quit working out, and abandoned non-sports activity for several years.

Despite my early success and many other great experiences, today’s training situation is in need of a complete overhaul if people are to become healthier.

I’ve said many times that I don’t believe in excuses. At the end of the day, it’s up to you to take care of your health, eat better, and make your way to the gym. That has not changed. Hold yourself accountable, look in the mirror, and ask yourself, “Do I care about myself?” And then follow up with, “Am I doing all I can to make myself healthy?”

If you start there every day, you’ll probably do a better job of motivating yourself to stay active and eat well.

But I also know that finding the will to exercise is not innate to most people. And eating bad foods is something that is programmed into the social fabric of our society. Those are not excuses; it’s reality. And in order to overcome those hurdles, we need help and support. Some of that can come from family and friends, but the gym is supposed to be one of the arms of support, and for the most part, it is failing miserably.

I travel and visit gyms in every state and while it genuinely hurts to say this, most facilities are bad. That’s not to say all trainers are bad. There are some incredible facilities with great staffs. And there are some bad facilities with talented trainers. But on the whole, the training business needs to change their model and become better at what they do. I’m optimistic that change can occur because many of the failures are due to a lack of effort. Take these three examples:


Distracted Trainers
If I see one more trainer playing on an iPod or talking to other people while a client is training I might have to take action. When you are training a client—especially when they are paying you good money—all of your attention should be on them. You should be watching their form, keeping them mentally focused, and letting them know that you care about their success.


Lack of Personalization
Let’s be honest: Diet is extremely important to any results you’ll see. And it’s true that many people sabotage their hard work in the gym with poor eating habits. But there is a method and madness behind training as well. A fat loss program and a muscle-building program are not the same. And yet, many trainers will design their workouts that way. It shows a fundamental misunderstanding of how to program a workout.

Listen—I am not the training expert. I am a translator who has worked with some of the smartest minds in the industry and learn from their rules, mistakes, and lessons. There is a very specific science to creating a workout and the design is determined by your goals, your strengths, and your weaknesses. Anyone who tells you otherwise—and that is many trainers—is giving you the wrong idea and is someone you can’t trust.


No Fundamental System
While personalization is important, it can go too far. Consider this the bootcamp paradox—where every workout is different and creates the "feeling" that what you're doing is correct. As I mentioned before, good workouts have a design. And great trainers have a belief system that influences how they create programs. That’s what allows you to build success; you find a plan and strategic approach that works and then adjust based on the needs on the client. Those trainers who don’t understand why they are picking exercises and don’t know why they are structured a certain way are just as dangerous as those who prescribe the exact same program for everyone, regardless of goals. When looking for a good trainer, you should ask questions about the design. Even if you don’t know much about fitness, you can usually tell if someone is talking confidently about a topic or just spewing BS.


Lack of Continuing Education
This is one of the biggest problems in the industry. Many trainers will earn their certification and then just focus on training clients. The training part is good—great trainers are born in the trenches, working day in and day out with clients. But just like any other business, nothing in the fitness and health industry is static. Every day a trainer should be working to become smarter and better. And the way to do that is to learn from other experts, read books, and attends seminars. If I’m a client, I’m asking trainers how many seminars they attend per year or how many books they read. If they’re not trying to get better at their job, why should you put your faith in them?


The Real Issue
Those problems can be solved easily. But the biggest change has to come from an overall approach to the gym experience. Fitness and health facilities have forgotten one simple factor: That their clients are real people. These people—YOU—are coming to them out of need. You want to get back in shape, feel healthier, and see results. And yet, there’s a lack of customer service that is the fundamental attribute of any good business. Fitness is a huge industry, but it’s poorly run because it’s not designed to take care of the consumer.


Just think about how many people switch gyms. Or never work with trainers because of lack of results or steep prices or inflexibility. Most gyms—not all—have one goal: Get you in and sign you up at a “reduced” rate. After that, most gyms forget about you. They’ve roped you in to a long-term deal and now your results and happiness are secondary. Inevitably, this is why many people don’t like the gym—because there is a lack of attention to the consumer beyond the point of payment.

Alwyn Cosgrove, a very talented trainer and owner of Results Fitness—one of the most successful gyms in the country—built his facility the right way. He realized that training was a business that started with clients. I've heard Cosgrove mention the book Peak (by Chip Conley) as a good read on how to build a successful business. The book addresses the three tiers of customer service. The first is your fundamental needs. In gym speak, this means having a space, equipment, and the option to receive personal training. Maybe there are more bells and whistles, but that’s just the foundation of a good gym. And yet that’s where most facilities stop.

The second tier is meeting desires. That is, what do you want to achieve? And what are the barriers that stand in your way? A good facility will cater to those preferences.

The final step: Address unrecognized needs. This last step is what defines the cream of the crop.

Let’s be honest: Few gyms take this approach to creating an experience that considers you. And while I don’t blame gyms for the country’s health struggles, they don’t do enough to reverse the trend. To prove the point, I reached out on Twitter and asked users if they are happy with their gym.

The results: 87% of respondents said they were unhappy.

Think about that. That’s a bad sign when the majority of people who are responding are probably those who enjoy activity and will go to the gym regardless of the experience.

What about the rest of the people? What about those who struggle every day to pull themselves out of bed or drive themselves to work out after a long day of work?

These people need the gym to become a place of fun. A place they can trust. A place that is worth their money.

At any favorite hangout—whether restaurants, bars, coffee shops—people attend because of the experience. Fitness should be no different. And yet the business routinely drops the ball.

There isn’t a quick fix to this. I’m calling out all the fitness facilities to make a stand and improve their customer service. Get back to focusing on the client and providing services that will make them comfortable; Hiring a staff that cares about their own success as trainers and the success of their clients.

There is a fight going on for improved health, and we need everyone in the industry on board and helping the cause.

We’ll do our part at LIVESTRONG.COM to provide the information and guidance that will help you build confidence and knowledge. It should enable you to eat healthier and even take exercise into your own hands.

But at the end of the day, we still need gyms to play their part. It’s time for them to acknowledge their faults and step up to the challenge.

- Adam Bornstein


Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/blog/blog/fixing-fitness-industry/#ixzz1nhDGAkq7

[PinkieLee]

Welcome Jo and we are so glad that you are here sharing your healthy living journey with us. It's awesome that you are seeing such great results right now.... and that you've found something that works for you. Good luck to you my friend!

As for me, I done the HCG diet I can't tell you how many times. Like Gemme said, it ended up being a trigger for me. Yes, I lost a lot of weight very quickly ~ almost 65 pounds. Only to end up gaining it all back, plus another 15 pounds. When I am limited that kind of an eating program, I always end up on the downward spirial of a binge. FOR ME, it didn't help me work on the reasons why I overeat or help me with how I relate to food... it just left me feeling deprived.

Luckily here, we are all on a program and/or making modifications that fit with our individual lifestyles. We all have one goal in mind... healthy living.

[JustJo]

Welcome Jo and we are so glad that you are here sharing your healthy living journey with us. It's awesome that you are seeing such great results right now.... and that you've found something that works for you. Good luck to you my friend!

As for me, I done the HCG diet I can't tell you how many times. Like Gemme said, it ended up being a trigger for me. Yes, I lost a lot of weight very quickly ~ almost 65 pounds. Only to end up gaining it all back, plus another 15 pounds. When I am limited that kind of an eating program, I always end up on the downward spirial of a binge. FOR ME, it didn't help me work on the reasons why I overeat or help me with how I relate to food... it just left me feeling deprived.

Luckily here, we are all on a program and/or making modifications that fit with our individual lifestyles. We all have one goal in mind... healthy living.

Thank you Pinkie for the lovely segue into what I wanted to say :)

Jo, I am soooooo glad you're here, and also so glad that you're taking the steps you need to in order to be healthier.

The HCG diet, like most of those kinds of things, scares me a little....because of what Pinkie said above....it doesn't address the underlying reasons why we are heavier than is healthy for us now. That usually boils down to our relationship with food, and the amount of movement we put into our daily lives.

Having said that, I remember reading in a different thread that this was a jumpstart for you, and that you were looking forward to being able to get into the gym and be more active....and that is an awesome goal.

I'm glad you're doing this under medical supervision....just please be super careful. We want you to stick around and be healthier! :)

I know that, for me, the biggest changes had to be how I approached food....that it's fuel for my body....not a salve for my hurt feelings or loneliness or a distraction from my stress. The other biggie for me, that I'm finally addressing successfully, is simply being more active and adding exercise in as a regular part of my life. My 3 times a week trips to Curves may not make me a super athlete, but they are changing how I feel and how I look.....and I'm sure they'll be impacting my next set of lab results too!

Anyway....hugs to you all. I LOVE this thread, and the support we all give each other here. And I LOVE that more and more of the community is saying "hey, I want to be healthier" and is coming to join us. Awesome stuff! :)

OH...and BRAVO KELT!!! I know that we have all struggled with maintaining the weight we have lost....and you are rocking it. I am SO proud of you and the steps you've taken to change your life. :clap:

[Kelt]

Hey Jo

Thanks for the shout out, I appreciate it.

I think we all owe you a debt of gratitude for not only creating and maintaining this thread, but also for keeping the focus on healthy.

I know I had more than a few dark days during the loss phase, and that coming in here was the bright spot that kept me on track and accountable.

Thank you

:formalbow:

[foxyshaman]

Welcome Jo and we are so glad that you are here sharing your healthy living journey with us. It's awesome that you are seeing such great results right now.... and that you've found something that works for you. Good luck to you my friend!

As for me, I done the HCG diet I can't tell you how many times. Like Gemme said, it ended up being a trigger for me. Yes, I lost a lot of weight very quickly ~ almost 65 pounds. Only to end up gaining it all back, plus another 15 pounds. When I am limited that kind of an eating program, I always end up on the downward spirial of a binge. FOR ME, it didn't help me work on the reasons why I overeat or help me with how I relate to food... it just left me feeling deprived.

Luckily here, we are all on a program and/or making modifications that fit with our individual lifestyles. We all have one goal in mind... healthy living.


I put my call out of "Welcome Jo"!! Congrats on taking your health as seriously as you are. Pain was one of the reasons I started on my journey.

I wanted to chime in a bit with regard to PinkieLee's post, as it touched what I have been working through lately on my own weight loss journey. I have, like many of us here, tried unsuccessfully to lose weight before. I always focused on 'the food'. The reason this time is successful is because I focused on "myself". I had a CRUSHING week last week. I thought for sure I had broken my last freaking plateau. Not only did I not break through it... I gained weight. How the hell was that possible?? I still do not know. But, I went back to square one of my behaviour modification therapy manual and rechecked all of the triggers. It was an eye opener for me to realize I had been emotionally triggered and apparently went blind to my own behaviours.

I was sssssssoooo mad and upset with myself. I just cried. But, doing the above helped me tremendously. So, in order to test myself, I walked right back into my emotional trigger situation and voila.... no trigger. No "forgot" to write that down - behaviour. No, twisting of my own thoughts. No.. all the others things I did to myself. Get my brain involved. If my brain is not involved, my emotional eating runs amok.

It isn't that I am fat, it is however that I am changing (apparently never ending changing) my unhealthy thinking. Each day is another day to exercise my healthy thinking. Six months ago I would not even have picked up on this whisper of a trigger. Six weeks ago I knew something was up, but was unable to really grasp it. Today, I feel empowered again.

So, wish me luck for weigh in on Friday. I don't think I will have broken my plateau this week, but by next Friday... I will be past my last plateau. I will not be beat anymore. I know we have all said this to ourselves, but this time, I really mean it. I am not going to be beat by my past anymore. I live here. In the present. With all my scars.

Just sending out love and compassion. Wishing all my fellow weight walkers a week without the internal critical voice.

[Leigh]

I'm glad your all here, because I am more motivated to do well with the support that everyone here gives to me :)

[JoSchmooze]

Okay, thanks. I wanted to make sure I was reading it right before I got too concerned.

Now, I can safely begin my concern.

Be safe, Jo, and if you feel lightheaded, EAT.

The food specified is at specific times
and specific foods....
I have the diet printed out if anyone would like to
take a look at it.
You eat certain fruits and certain veggies but the protein
is limited to lean beef, chicken and seafood
(lobster tails,crab, shrimp and "white" fish)...
Now, I am not a big fan of cauliflower or broccoli
(take that shit and throw itout the window!) but I can eat
steamed spinach, asparagus and some of the other veggies
that I would consider "extras" in a salad.
And the other important thing is to drink at least 2 litres of water
per day. Two litres!! No worries, that's just 4 regular size bottles
of water. Piece of cake for me!


I don't know if there will ever be a time when I might say that a calorie consumption of 500 is safe. Our bodies need a certain amount of caloric intake to process. Not for anything other than just being the organs they are and doing what each organ does. I'm a little over 5 feet tall and I have a moderate amount of movement per day. I know that, in order for my body to function....not to lose weight or gain weight or anything other than to keep chugging along....that I need to consume about 900-1000 calories per day. On days that I perform more physical output I need more. Besides the physical part of it, I could imagine that that strict of a caloric diet could trigger some folks.

So, I see the benefits of it on a short term basis, strictly physically speaking. Like you mentioned, it could be a very good kickstart for really stubborn bodies.

I'd be more interested in reading more about the 1000 calorie diet. That is something that I might consider for a short term kick or if I get to a plateau.

Thanks for the info!

I agree that we all could do with less dairy and sugar and simple carbs.

I'm glad your friend has had success with it, but I still can't see it as something more than a temporary thing. On the long term, I'd totally go postal.

:|

I have not had any bread, sugar or dairy
in the past 24 days, but I do miss bread and butter....
I am also told that with the hCG diet, once you reach your goal weight they give you like a "maintenance" type diet.


Here's the deal with me.....
In the past 5 years I have had a total knee replacement,
arthroscopic surgery on the other knee,
broke my ankle trying to get my fat ass up over a 4 ft. wall
diagnosed with a bulging disc at L4-L5,
had blood clots in both lungs 2 years ago
and changed my working conditions.
I spend more time at this laptop or in my recliner
than anywhere else.
I have not eaten healthily (is that a word??) for a long,
long time. I have been used to traveling about 80%
of the time so I ate out a LOT! I have done this for the last 15
years. In less than a month I will be 60 yrs old.

Stress may be one of my triggers, but I know I used to
drink way too much. I have smoked for 40 of those 60 years and it's time to put a stop to that too!

Every one of the doctors I have seen in the past 2 years
(pulmonologist, orthopedic surgeon, neurologist,and my primary)
have all told me that 90% of my physical issues could be resolved if I lost all this extra weight. I agree with them as I am physically uncomfortable. Three weeks ago I could not even bend over to
tie my own damned shoes! But I have been caught in a kind of "Catch-22" situation....I need exercise to lose the weight,
but I can't exercise because everything hurts so much, but I need to exercise......see?? This initial weight loss will help me able to get my weight down so that I can exercise every day and will also help me modify the behavior of eating for flavor and not for substenance...

And........
now that I have someone I care about, who I truly enjoy being
with, I want to be able to spend a helluva lot more time with her.
And quite frankly, I am spending way too much money NOT
to succeed. I'm kinda stubborn that way.....

Sorry about the long post, just needed to get it out there.
Oh! BTW.....I have not taken any pain meds (I was on maintenance Vicodin) for the past 2 weeks! That's the longest I have been off
of that for probably the last 5 years.....
Finally, I wanted to share a website. For those of you who may be going sugarless, no calories, no fat and no glutens -
WaldenFarms.com has all kinds of salad dressings and veggie dips.
They even have some chocolate syrup!
I like their peanut spread slathered on celery sticks - I have done that for a veggie for lunch time....

Thank you Jo, Gemme, Novela, PinkieLee, Sylvie
and all the rest of you for your support....
If I had not seen this thread the other day, I would be boring Abby with all my triumphs or tragedies!

Hang in there all of you and keep strong!!

:cigar2:

[Gemme]

The food specified is at specific times
and specific foods....
I have the diet printed out if anyone would like to
take a look at it.
You eat certain fruits and certain veggies but the protein
is limited to lean beef, chicken and seafood
(lobster tails,crab, shrimp and "white" fish)...
Now, I am not a big fan of cauliflower or broccoli
(take that shit and throw itout the window!) but I can eat
steamed spinach, asparagus and some of the other veggies
that I would consider "extras" in a salad.
And the other important thing is to drink at least 2 litres of water
per day. Two litres!! No worries, that's just 4 regular size bottles
of water. Piece of cake for me!






I have not had any bread, sugar or dairy
in the past 24 days, but I do miss bread and butter....
I am also told that with the hCG diet, once you reach your goal weight they give you like a "maintenance" type diet.


Here's the deal with me.....
In the past 5 years I have had a total knee replacement,
arthroscopic surgery on the other knee,
broke my ankle trying to get my fat ass up over a 4 ft. wall
diagnosed with a bulging disc at L4-L5,
had blood clots in both lungs 2 years ago
and changed my working conditions.
I spend more time at this laptop or in my recliner
than anywhere else.
I have not eaten healthily (is that a word??) for a long,
long time. I have been used to traveling about 80%
of the time so I ate out a LOT! I have done this for the last 15
years. In less than a month I will be 60 yrs old.

Stress may be one of my triggers, but I know I used to
drink way too much. I have smoked for 40 of those 60 years and it's time to put a stop to that too!

Every one of the doctors I have seen in the past 2 years
(pulmonologist, orthopedic surgeon, neurologist,and my primary)
have all told me that 90% of my physical issues could be resolved if I lost all this extra weight. I agree with them as I am physically uncomfortable. Three weeks ago I could not even bend over to
tie my own damned shoes! But I have been caught in a kind of "Catch-22" situation....I need exercise to lose the weight,
but I can't exercise because everything hurts so much, but I need to exercise......see?? This initial weight loss will help me able to get my weight down so that I can exercise every day and will also help me modify the behavior of eating for flavor and not for substenance...

And........
now that I have someone I care about, who I truly enjoy being
with, I want to be able to spend a helluva lot more time with her.
And quite frankly, I am spending way too much money NOT
to succeed. I'm kinda stubborn that way.....

Sorry about the long post, just needed to get it out there.
Oh! BTW.....I have not taken any pain meds (I was on maintenance Vicodin) for the past 2 weeks! That's the longest I have been off
of that for probably the last 5 years.....
Finally, I wanted to share a website. For those of you who may be going sugarless, no calories, no fat and no glutens -
WaldenFarms.com has all kinds of salad dressings and veggie dips.
They even have some chocolate syrup!
I like their peanut spread slathered on celery sticks - I have done that for a veggie for lunch time....

Thank you Jo, Gemme, Novela, PinkieLee, Sylvie
and all the rest of you for your support....
If I had not seen this thread the other day, I would be boring Abby with all my triumphs or tragedies!

Hang in there all of you and keep strong!!

:cigar2:

I know that I actually enjoy long posts. It tells me that the poster is actually putting some thought and a part of themselves onto the board instead of the automatic typed verbal diarrhea that flows so easily and often.

I get the reasoning behind starting a program like this. It just would not work for me. I not only like food too much but I certainly can't eat at specific times. My job is totally customer service focused and my lunch time is often nudged one way or another to accomodate them.

I am glad to hear that, even though the caloric count is low, it's filled with nutrient full foods and makes the most of those calories. The goal is, indeed, to get you to a healthier place and, if that does that for you, I'm definitely going to be supportive. I still reserve my right to be a bit concerned though. :)

I rememeber you breaking your ankle!!! Well, I wasn't there, but I certainly remember hearing/seeing you talk about it.

Congrats on not having to take the pain meds lately!!!! That's a big deal for sure.

[JustJo]

I absolutely, totally, 100% get this...and think it's fantastic that you're taking the plunge to be healthy. I hear you on the scary, uncomfortable, oh my god my body is falling apart thing....I've been there.

And I also totally understand on the catch 22 of needing exercise but needing to be more fit to get the exercise to be fit! It's the reason my Mobia is a piece of sculpture in my bedroom at the moment....it's simply too hard for me yet.

Working out at Curves is like my version of what you're doing....doing what I CAN do until I can do what I WANT to do. I get it.

And I totally 100% applaud you.

And I also think it's cute as hell that Ms. Abby is part of your inspiration. :cheesy: Hugs to you both!

The food specified is at specific times
and specific foods....
I have the diet printed out if anyone would like to
take a look at it.
You eat certain fruits and certain veggies but the protein
is limited to lean beef, chicken and seafood
(lobster tails,crab, shrimp and "white" fish)...
Now, I am not a big fan of cauliflower or broccoli
(take that shit and throw itout the window!) but I can eat
steamed spinach, asparagus and some of the other veggies
that I would consider "extras" in a salad.
And the other important thing is to drink at least 2 litres of water
per day. Two litres!! No worries, that's just 4 regular size bottles
of water. Piece of cake for me!






I have not had any bread, sugar or dairy
in the past 24 days, but I do miss bread and butter....
I am also told that with the hCG diet, once you reach your goal weight they give you like a "maintenance" type diet.


Here's the deal with me.....
In the past 5 years I have had a total knee replacement,
arthroscopic surgery on the other knee,
broke my ankle trying to get my fat ass up over a 4 ft. wall
diagnosed with a bulging disc at L4-L5,
had blood clots in both lungs 2 years ago
and changed my working conditions.
I spend more time at this laptop or in my recliner
than anywhere else.
I have not eaten healthily (is that a word??) for a long,
long time. I have been used to traveling about 80%
of the time so I ate out a LOT! I have done this for the last 15
years. In less than a month I will be 60 yrs old.

Stress may be one of my triggers, but I know I used to
drink way too much. I have smoked for 40 of those 60 years and it's time to put a stop to that too!

Every one of the doctors I have seen in the past 2 years
(pulmonologist, orthopedic surgeon, neurologist,and my primary)
have all told me that 90% of my physical issues could be resolved if I lost all this extra weight. I agree with them as I am physically uncomfortable. Three weeks ago I could not even bend over to
tie my own damned shoes! But I have been caught in a kind of "Catch-22" situation....I need exercise to lose the weight,
but I can't exercise because everything hurts so much, but I need to exercise......see?? This initial weight loss will help me able to get my weight down so that I can exercise every day and will also help me modify the behavior of eating for flavor and not for substenance...

And........
now that I have someone I care about, who I truly enjoy being
with, I want to be able to spend a helluva lot more time with her.
And quite frankly, I am spending way too much money NOT
to succeed. I'm kinda stubborn that way.....

Sorry about the long post, just needed to get it out there.
Oh! BTW.....I have not taken any pain meds (I was on maintenance Vicodin) for the past 2 weeks! That's the longest I have been off
of that for probably the last 5 years.....
Finally, I wanted to share a website. For those of you who may be going sugarless, no calories, no fat and no glutens -
WaldenFarms.com has all kinds of salad dressings and veggie dips.
They even have some chocolate syrup!
I like their peanut spread slathered on celery sticks - I have done that for a veggie for lunch time....

Thank you Jo, Gemme, Novela, PinkieLee, Sylvie
and all the rest of you for your support....
If I had not seen this thread the other day, I would be boring Abby with all my triumphs or tragedies!

Hang in there all of you and keep strong!!

:cigar2:

[MsTinkerbelly]

Hello healthies!

I am down 61 pounds since riding on the plateu for 2 weeks; that can be very discouraging!

So my words of wisdom this morning are to hang in there and keep trying, and even if you fall off that horse be as good as you can to your body.

That's all I got.:byebye:

[PinkieLee]

Hello healthies!

I am down 61 pounds since riding on the plateu for 2 weeks; that can be very discouraging!

So my words of wisdom this morning are to hang in there and keep trying, and even if you fall off that horse be as good as you can to your body.

That's all I got.:byebye:

******WOOOHOOOO CONGRATS*******

61 pounds gone forever... that's amazing! We are all super proud of you!

[*Anya*]

Pulling my own covers here even though I know my honey will read this but I have to come clean for myself and perhaps to let anyone else that is struggling to know that they are not alone. Not everyone is able to just make up their mind that they are going to lose weight and never have a slip.

I had the pleasure of spending a week with my butch. I say a week as I am like many on the Planet, in a LDR. I am, however, having a very hard time with it. I had a very dark 2-weeks after said butch flew back those 350 miles and a one- hour plane ride back to No. Cali.

I lost 3-pounds the week the butch was here.

The day after butch left, for the first time in 6- 12 months (maybe even longer) I bought an entire box of cookies at Trader Jo's and ate them at one sitting. I then bough a box of "Hold the Cones" little ice cream cones, @ least I ate them over several days

Maybe this should be in the Eating Disorders thread because it was so clearly emotional eating to fill a sadness that I felt and of course it filled nothing but self-loathing and even greater sadness at my loss of self-control.

Now, I am struggling with the cravings that will take another week or longer to go away.

I also have broken my own daily weighing rule and have not weighed in the last two weeks because I am so fearful of looking at what I might have gained.

All of this is very, very difficult to admit to not only myself but to those that read this thread. I am a control freak and perfectionist and my my loss of control goes against my core personality but it is my truth today.

[Novelafemme]

Pulling my own covers here even though I know my honey will read this but I have to come clean for myself and perhaps to let anyone else that is struggling to know that they are not alone. Not everyone is able to just make up their mind that they are going to lose weight and never have a slip.

I had the pleasure of spending a week with my butch. I say a week as I am like many on the Planet, in a LDR. I am, however, having a very hard time with it. I had a very dark 2-weeks after said butch flew back those 350 miles and a one- hour plane ride back to No. Cali.

I lost 3-pounds the week the butch was here.

The day after butch left, for the first time in 6- 12 months (maybe even longer) I bought an entire box of cookies at Trader Jo's and ate them at one sitting. I then bough a box of "Hold the Cones" little ice cream cones, @ least I ate them over several days

Maybe this should be in the Eating Disorders thread because it was so clearly emotional eating to fill a sadness that I felt and of course it filled nothing but self-loathing and even greater sadness at my loss of self-control.

Now, I am struggling with the cravings that will take another week or longer to go away.

I also have broken my own daily weighing rule and have not weighed in the last two weeks because I am so fearful of looking at what I might have gained.

All of this is very, very difficult to admit to not only myself but to those that read this thread. I am a control freak and perfectionist and my my loss of control goes against my core personality but it is my truth today.

{{{{Anya}}}}}

Oh dear heart, I can feel your pain through my computer screen, and I applaud you for sharing your heart with us.

My fiance is an emotional eater and when she feels (what's that acronym...HAuLT...hurt, angry, lonely, tired) she gravitates toward food as her source of comfort. She has come SO far, but I can sense when she is struggling and it takes all my will power to not jump in and try to rescue her. That sort of co-dependent behavior can be such a trigger for me. I don't have food issues so much anymore, but when my switches get flipped (HAuLT) I turn to wine. <sigh> I love it so, but I scared myself a while back when taking out the recycling and I saw how many empty bottles of red wine were there. It just takes practice. And lots of love and self forgiveness. We MUST be gentle with ourselves. Read my signature and don't forget it!!! You are so beautiful and strong and smart and wonderful and we won't ever stop caring about you! No matter what! That's what this beautiful community is all about!!! (f)

[apretty]

I could have easily written this, many times over.

LDR's are super hard, combined with all the other stuff going on (read: life).

It will get better, promise!

Pulling my own covers here even though I know my honey will read this but I have to come clean for myself and perhaps to let anyone else that is struggling to know that they are not alone. Not everyone is able to just make up their mind that they are going to lose weight and never have a slip.

I had the pleasure of spending a week with my butch. I say a week as I am like many on the Planet, in a LDR. I am, however, having a very hard time with it. I had a very dark 2-weeks after said butch flew back those 350 miles and a one- hour plane ride back to No. Cali.

I lost 3-pounds the week the butch was here.

The day after butch left, for the first time in 6- 12 months (maybe even longer) I bought an entire box of cookies at Trader Jo's and ate them at one sitting. I then bough a box of "Hold the Cones" little ice cream cones, @ least I ate them over several days

Maybe this should be in the Eating Disorders thread because it was so clearly emotional eating to fill a sadness that I felt and of course it filled nothing but self-loathing and even greater sadness at my loss of self-control.

Now, I am struggling with the cravings that will take another week or longer to go away.

I also have broken my own daily weighing rule and have not weighed in the last two weeks because I am so fearful of looking at what I might have gained.

All of this is very, very difficult to admit to not only myself but to those that read this thread. I am a control freak and perfectionist and my my loss of control goes against my core personality but it is my truth today.

[apretty]

I'm not sure if anyone mentioned it but the low calorie and high protein causes the body to go into a state of ketosis... One benefit/side effect is that the person doesn't feel hunger.

I understand the thinking that '500' calories daily is dangerous but the doctors that have signed off on these diets (optifast is one I've done, personally) consider the pros and cons of a person remaining at a certain weight vs. the low-risk factors associated with a short-term, low-calorie 'fast' and the benefits outweigh the risks for a person who is morbidly obese. (Not all are morbidly obese, I know Kaiser (HMO) will allow you to 'fast' if you have even just 40 lbs to lose.)

The (only) downside is keeping off weight shed so quickly--Which is real, real hard.

I'll admit that I was TOTALLY freaked out when my best friend started it. In fact, I got really upset until I did some research on my own. The thing you have to remember is this is NOT a diet for someone who wants to shed a couple of unwanted pounds. The target audience is the morbidly obese. My BF can spend two hours + on the elliptical a day, jog 5 miles, and eat healthy and not lose a single pound. He is just a big guy. But, he also has an enlarged heart so it is detrimental to his health that he lose 30-50lbs. And now he is actually making progress AND he isn't starving. The key is all the protein you are consuming. No dairy, No sugar, and very few carbs. Once you wean off the carbs your body starts to consume all the extra fat you have stored.

[JustJo]

((((( Anya )))))

Emotional eating is really, really hard...and I hear you completely on this. One of the biggest challenges I have is to not go to the sweets or chips if I'm feeling stressed or depressed.

I also know how hard LDRs can be... :rrose:

I happen to LOVE Novela's sig line, because it is so true. Sometimes courage truly is acknowledging what happened (to yourself), stepping on the scale to face reality, NOT beating yourself up about it, and starting again tomorrow.

You are a perfectly imperfect human being....complete with feelings. And some days or weeks are going to be harder than others. It's okay. You aren't off track at all....just experiencing a course correction. :)

A friend once told me that we have to think of progress like a sail boat. Sail boats, because they depend on wind and not motors, don't travel in straight lines from start point to end. They tack back and forth with the wind....crossing back and forth over the line that runs from their beginning to their destination...over and over again. In essence, they are almost always "off course"....but a talented sailor, who respects the nature of sailboats and the wind, will still end up where they are going.

You're not failing...you're just tacking with the wind...and need to turn your sails around.

Big hugs. :stillheart:

Pulling my own covers here even though I know my honey will read this but I have to come clean for myself and perhaps to let anyone else that is struggling to know that they are not alone. Not everyone is able to just make up their mind that they are going to lose weight and never have a slip.

I had the pleasure of spending a week with my butch. I say a week as I am like many on the Planet, in a LDR. I am, however, having a very hard time with it. I had a very dark 2-weeks after said butch flew back those 350 miles and a one- hour plane ride back to No. Cali.

I lost 3-pounds the week the butch was here.

The day after butch left, for the first time in 6- 12 months (maybe even longer) I bought an entire box of cookies at Trader Jo's and ate them at one sitting. I then bough a box of "Hold the Cones" little ice cream cones, @ least I ate them over several days

Maybe this should be in the Eating Disorders thread because it was so clearly emotional eating to fill a sadness that I felt and of course it filled nothing but self-loathing and even greater sadness at my loss of self-control.

Now, I am struggling with the cravings that will take another week or longer to go away.

I also have broken my own daily weighing rule and have not weighed in the last two weeks because I am so fearful of looking at what I might have gained.

All of this is very, very difficult to admit to not only myself but to those that read this thread. I am a control freak and perfectionist and my my loss of control goes against my core personality but it is my truth today.

[PinkieLee]

((((((((*Anya*))))))))))))))

My friend, you are NOT alone.

Since D's mom's death (almost 2 weeks), I have been on a downward spirial myself. Every single day I wake up and I say, "today I won't binge". And every day I go to bed a failure, because I haven't been able to just say no. Again, I feel as though I am in an addiction mode right now.

Emotional eating and/or trying to fill a void with food, has been a lifelong problem for me.

I keep telling myself that when things get better, I will get better. But right now, it's more like a bunch of fake ass affirmations that are spitting out of my mouth.

[apretty]

I keep telling myself that when things get better, I will get better. But right now, it's more like a bunch of fake ass affirmations that are spitting out of my mouth.

Those aren't fake ass--It's you trying at something that for right now, just isn't working.

[JustJo]

(((((( PinkieLee ))))))

And what I said to Anya also applies to you lovely lady.

You have just gone through one of the toughest things there is...and you are not a failure for being human, for being emotional, for being sad, and for trying to make yourself feel better.

Sometimes I think we need to reframe it.

Let me tell you a true story.

The company I work for is a health provider...not a doctor or a hospital. We create and provide wellness solutions...like fitness, smoking cessation, health coaching, etc.

One of our health coaches posted on our intranet some months back about a major victory. The entire company recognized it and celebrated it. Guess what it was?

A client, who had Type 2 diabetes and several other chronic conditions, had finally agreed to work with one of our coaches. The goal they set was to try to reduce his consumption of unhealthy sweets. This client had the practice of going every day to Dairy Queen and getting a large Blizzard....that yummy soft ice cream and crushed up cookies or candy thing that I also love.

The success?

The client had changed their practice...and was now going only twice a week and getting a small Blizzard.

That's worth celebrating....because it is a success, not a failure.

So....instead of counting the day a failure if you eat more than you planned....what about counting each small success? What if you focus on the single instance when you wanted ice cream and had something healthy instead? Or took a hot bath? Or read a book to distract yourself?

Sometimes our victories may only last a few minutes....but we need to focus on them, and strive for more of them....not be hard on ourselves for the times we stumble.

:stillheart:


((((((((*Anya*))))))))))))))

My friend, you are NOT alone.

Since D's mom's death (almost 2 weeks), I have been on a downward spirial myself. Every single day I wake up and I say, "today I won't binge". And every day I go to bed a failure, because I haven't been able to just say no. Again, I feel as though I am in an addiction mode right now.

Emotional eating and/or trying to fill a void with food, has been a lifelong problem for me.

I keep telling myself that when things get better, I will get better. But right now, it's more like a bunch of fake ass affirmations that are spitting out of my mouth.

[JustJo]

Well hot damn bois and grrrls :cheesy:

All this talk of LDRs and emotional eating got me thinking...

I have done a lot of emotional eating in the last couple years....first from stress of the LDR, then the stress of moving, then the stress of life, etc. No one's "fault" but my own....it's how I cope when I can't cope, right?

Anyway.

When I finally hit 229 I said "enough"....that's just not safe with the diabetes and all the other health stuff I need to be concerned about. I started changing how I ate, how often I moved, started this thread, re-started this thread... :)

I can see and feel the differences, my lab results are good....but there's always "the pants."

I have a goal pair I can't wear yet....those real (old numbers) size 18 Apple Bottom jeans....I'm close, but not yet.

But there are my "every day" jeans that I moved from NY and hung in the back of the closet. New (inflated....or is that deflated?) size 14 women's Wranglers. I hadn't even tried them on since I moved because I knew they'd be impossible.

But...after posting...I started wondering. Went and took my shower and, instead of the sundress I was going to toss on, went into the closet, took down my favorite pair, stepped in, pulled them up, buttoned, zipped....and didn't even have to hold my breath or suck in my stomach.

They fit. :cheesy:

XgDrJ5Z2rKw

[Sweet_Amor_Taino]

I have lost weight about 10 pounds and last wek I join the 24 hour fitness Gym and paid for an individual fitness instructor for 3 sessions. I am proud of myself.. Now i have to keep it up.:praying:

[JoSchmooze]

Pulling my own covers here even though I know my honey will read this but I have to come clean for myself and perhaps to let anyone else that is struggling to know that they are not alone. Not everyone is able to just make up their mind that they are going to lose weight and never have a slip.

I had the pleasure of spending a week with my butch. I say a week as I am like many on the Planet, in a LDR. I am, however, having a very hard time with it. I had a very dark 2-weeks after said butch flew back those 350 miles and a one- hour plane ride back to No. Cali.

I lost 3-pounds the week the butch was here.

The day after butch left, for the first time in 6- 12 months (maybe even longer) I bought an entire box of cookies at Trader Jo's and ate them at one sitting. I then bough a box of "Hold the Cones" little ice cream cones, @ least I ate them over several days

Maybe this should be in the Eating Disorders thread because it was so clearly emotional eating to fill a sadness that I felt and of course it filled nothing but self-loathing and even greater sadness at my loss of self-control.

Now, I am struggling with the cravings that will take another week or longer to go away.

I also have broken my own daily weighing rule and have not weighed in the last two weeks because I am so fearful of looking at what I might have gained.

All of this is very, very difficult to admit to not only myself but to those that read this thread. I am a control freak and perfectionist and my my loss of control goes against my core personality but it is my truth today.

Like Jo said...you're tacking in the wind....
It is your "truth" and part of gettring over that hump
is the fact that you admitted it and are willing to make another go
of it! Hang in there.....


((((((((*Anya*))))))))))))))

My friend, you are NOT alone.

Since D's mom's death (almost 2 weeks), I have been on a downward spirial myself. Every single day I wake up and I say, "today I won't binge". And every day I go to bed a failure, because I haven't been able to just say no. Again, I feel as though I am in an addiction mode right now.

Emotional eating and/or trying to fill a void with food, has been a lifelong problem for me.

I keep telling myself that when things get better, I will get better. But right now, it's more like a bunch of fake ass affirmations that are spitting out of my mouth.

Just like most of the 12 step programs that are out there...
I will say 2 things....
Yes, it will get better and the other one I really
like is "fake it until you make it"....
One day you'll look around, try on that tight pair of jeans from a year ago....and lo and behold.....they fit!!
(Just like the "other" Jo....lol)
I put on a pair of shorts I couldn't wear last summer and there was no problem......*big ole grin*

:cigar2:

[Medusa]

Wow. Tons of amazing posts in here lately! I have been trying to catch up and wanted to respond to several things so forgive me if this is disjointed:

JoSchmooze - Welcome! I am glad you are doing something for yourself and support you in taking charge of your health! I know that traveling all the time can be incredibly stressful and hard on the body so I am very glad you are figuring out ways to make it more manageable. I have heard of the hcg diet but haven't done a lot of research on it. It sounds incredibly low calorie/carb. Best of luck to you, please let us know how it goes!

Anya - Girrrrrrl, do I ever feel you. Not only with the binging but with the LDR triggers. I remember back to when Jack and I were dating long distance. It was 18 months of roller coaster highs and crushing lows and always that crappy feeling of "when will I see you again" immediately after I flew home. Its a lot of work and it's expensive ( I took a second job to cover my exorbitant phone bills, travel costs, and to help save for the move and Jack kicked her business into high gear to do the same).
I think that kind of stress and feeling of longing is a huge trigger for some of us and can often lead (and did for me many times) to binging.
It really helped me to think about what the "pattern" of the relationship would be so that I could plan accordingly for the feelings. If I knew I was going to be moping and feeling shitty for 10 days after leaving Jack in California, I made sure I had a full schedule of 2nd job and going out with friends to fill my time so that I wasn't sitting around with the feelings. Might have been "escapist" of me but it was the tool that worked at the time rather than sitting with the feelings.

On binging, I'd like to say this: I am a lifelong binger and I will BE a binger for the rest of my life. I don't know if this will be the same for anyone else here but I have resigned myself to realizing that no amount of "work" I do or weight I lose is going to reset that part of my brain because I learned binging as a tool so early in my life that it's just part of my marrow.

Admitting that is not a failure to me.

When I accepted the behavior as something that is going to crop up from time to time when I am triggered in certain ways, I feel more power over it because then it's "just part of my stress reaction" and not an angry monster terrorizing me.

I might not ever binge again in my life and will celebrate that heartily but if I do binge again, I'm going to treat it like hitting a nail on the highway. You change the tire and keep going. By changing the tire, I mean that we gain awareness every time we binge. Pretty soon, we can see the nail on the highway coming and might be able to change lanes to avoid it.

Changing lanes might mean changing our routine, or checking in extra often with ourselves, or going to a support group, or etc. Different strokes for different folks.

I have had 5 binges in the last 9 months. And don't get me wrong, these were bad mothers that meant thousands of calories, lots of self-deprecation, and feeling like giving up. All of them lasted 3 days or more because when I talk about binging, I don't mean I overate at one meal, I mean that I went on a food rampage and ate exhaustively for days to the point of wanting to throw up (and sometimes doing so). This also meant that I got to repeat my cycle of binge, weigh, freak out because I gained however many pounds, rinse and repeat.
Because the cycle helps us *stay* in the cycle if that makes any sense.

We become swirling eddies of food addiction where we get to have our food and our self-loathing too.

Fuck. That. Shit.

The world feeds us enough bullshit so we have to do better for ourselves. That takes believing that we are worth the fight.

That shit is HARD.

Just wanted to give huge props to every single person in this thread (and to the folks who read and don't post). This is an amazing thread and has been an amazing source of inspiration and support.

Much MUCH love.

[Leigh]

Oh how I need and love this thread at the same time!

I hear myself in every single one of you, from Anya to Jo and from Pinkie to everyone else who comes in here on a daily/weekly/monthly basis to share their successes (and setbacks) with us. I have had my own set of setbacks as it were, one was having to spend 3 weeks getting over bronchitis and missing so many workouts that even now that I'm cleared to go back I'm worried that I will not be able to get back into the routine of going every two days. I've already made a promise to myself that no matter how difficult it is to get back into the swing of things I *will* do it because my health and well being is too important to ignore.

In those three weeks in which I was absent form the gym, I noticed that I was going back to my old self in that I was overeating, stuck in the house (though that wasn't my fault, I just didn't wanna get more sick); I was getting back into consuming chips, chocolate etc not that I wasn't while I was still going to the gym but I was not eating nearly as much of that crap while going to the gym as I was when I wasn't going to the gym. Now that I am getting back into the gym I know that things will change for the better, and that is what I want for myself and everyone else here :-)

[justkim]

I am feeling defeated right now... I have stress fractures in both my feet... nothing high impact for me for a while... I am frustrated that I am unable to do what I know works for me as far as cardio goes... I am going to try water aerobics, I will let you all know how that turns out. I can still do some of the workouts that my trainer has shown me... I do know I can maintain my weight with just walking and watching what I eat but that isn't what I wanted to do... I will take all of this and make the most of it...
To those of you also walking this journey to a better and healthier you please take care of your feet and listen to those little pains. This injury could have been avoided if I had only listen and not just tried to push through the pain...

[PinkieLee]

I just wanted to say THANK YOU, to each & every one of you, that shares your journey with us... the good, the bad & the ugly. I am grateful for the celebration of mini milestones & the neverending words of encouragement & support given to one another every. single. day!

[Leigh]

That's because we are just that darn good *grins*

;)

[*Anya*]

I am feeling defeated right now... I have stress fractures in both my feet... nothing high impact for me for a while... I am frustrated that I am unable to do what I know works for me as far as cardio goes... I am going to try water aerobics, I will let you all know how that turns out. I can still do some of the workouts that my trainer has shown me... I do know I can maintain my weight with just walking and watching what I eat but that isn't what I wanted to do... I will take all of this and make the most of it...
To those of you also walking this journey to a better and healthier you please take care of your feet and listen to those little pains. This injury could have been avoided if I had only listen and not just tried to push through the pain...



Hugs to you Kim! I have had two prior stress fractures in my right foot from previously overdoing it on a treadmill at a crazy incline and one stress fracture in my left foot when a large can of tomatoe sauce fell out of my pantry on my foot.

I was fortunate in that I did not have one in each foot at the same time. They can be quite painful.

They all took a long time to heal and will not be rushed! Water arobics is a really great idea for continuing exercise without impacting your fractures.

Best of luck and your advice to not ignore pain is quite wise. I did ignore my 1st one and it took twice as long to heal as my subsequent ones!

PS:

Thanks to all of you that PM'd me or left me comments, regarding my post of earlier today.

All of you are the very best. This is a wonderful thread with a truly caring community of folks. Hugs also to each of you for such wonderful support for not only me but for each other. (f)

[sylvie]

It's been a hard week for me..
my Mémère isn't well, and my emotions are all over the place..
i'm very close with my grandparents, and found out this week she has an aggressive lung cancer and we're losing her to it - she's decided she didn't want treatment (and i don't blame her at almost 88 years old)..
:(

So she's home & my cousin and i decided to take this weekend off, we need to see her so we're travelling (5 hour drive) up to Petit Rocher and spending it with her.. i need this before i travel to Mr Mtn this Wednesday..♥

ANYway, this week has been full of triggers for me, and it's been difficult, and i'm losing myself and i need to regain control.. So this morning, right now i am getting ready for the gym, and heading out in a bout 15-20 mins..i reminded myself this morning, food is *NOT* my enemy, and so back to taking care of me properly..

Posting this here, helps me keep myself accountable so i will GO.
i make excuses in my own mind not to go, now i will..

Thank you all for the posts i could go through to help motivate me to post in here.. i've been absent, but only because my days have been difficult and busy..i will be back and catch up properly, rep and comment and love on you all because you all ROCK..

Just needed this frigging motivation and ass kicking this morning..
So thank you!!!

-- off i go --

[JoSchmooze]

Just finished my 45 minutes on the bike,
waiting for coffe....this morning I have my first
"follow-up" appointment at the clinic....

I don't think I have anything to worry about -
I have lost 23 pounds in a month and I am still on the straight and narrow....so to speak!

I'll be back later to let you know what the Dr. has to say....
Keep on keeping on!

:cigar2:

[Medusa]

Sylvie -
Definitely sounds like a tough week for you. I hope you get some down time. <3


Friday check in!

I went out last night with a group of friends from work to do Mexican food and karaoke. I had 2 huge margaritas that I'm sure were not the best of choices but I had "saved" a ton of calories yesterday knowing that I was going to have a drink or two.

Checked the scales this morning and I am squarely at 284 which is .4 lower than my lowest weight before I had my 5-pound backfire over the last month! WOOT!

Babysteps!

Clothes are definitely getting looser and feeling a lot more energetic.

Some days I have to remind myself of how far I've come because the weight loss is really slow compared to other people I know.

In the last year, I have quit smoking, gone completely off of soda of any type, significantly reduced the amount of processed food I eat, and also added a significant amount of exercise to my normal routine.

I am no longer on blood pressure medication, my knees no longer hurt, my blood pressure is a normal number, and I don't wake up aching every morning.

That's a Virginia Slim "You've come a long way baby" moment if I've ever seen it!

[Gemme]

For those having difficult days/weeks/times, I hear you. I hear you and I feel you.

For myself, I have issues that won't go away, and they are usually work related. Those I do stress about and sometimes give into urges about, but overall, I have a slight numbness to them. It's the 'same ole, same ole'.

But currently, I'm also in the process of moving and of a really good friend moving far, far away. Though I know he'll be taken care of by loving members of our community, I still feel as if a piece of me and a part of my life is going to board that plane with him in twelve days and I won't be able to get it back. So, I'm watching him pack and I have to pack and we're separating strands of our lives that we've spent a lot of time weaving together and it's just sad. I'm happy that we're exploring new lives and are going to have, hopefully, positive and joyful experiences. But it's the sadness that really eats at me.

When I'm angry or bored, I will take a few bites of whatever and I can usually catch myself and stop or else switch to a healthier substitute. However, the sadness, for me, is like the ocean. Calm on the surface, but if you get too deep into it, it will pull you under. And that's where I am. Away from the shore and at the point where I have to fight hard against it or let it take me under. Some days are better than others and some days I fight harder than others.

That's the way of the world. We all have so many obstacles (death, illness, LDRs, live in relationships, family, work, social obligations, society's influences upon us and our family, etc), it's a wonder any of us find a way to break through the hard times at all. So, I'm super proud of those who do have things in check. I'm proud of those who have those victories, whether small or big, to celebrate. I'm proud of those who aren't quite there yet, but are still chugging along. I'm even proud of those who are nowhere near where they'd like to be but they are aware of their struggle and still try when they can.

I am in the last category right now, but maybe next week, things will be better. I think my victory now is in maintaining the belief that things will get better. :rrose:

[JoSchmooze]

Sylvie -
Definitely sounds like a tough week for you. I hope you get some down time. <3


Friday check in!

I went out last night with a group of friends from work to do Mexican food and karaoke. I had 2 huge margaritas that I'm sure were not the best of choices but I had "saved" a ton of calories yesterday knowing that I was going to have a drink or two.

Checked the scales this morning and I am squarely at 284 which is .4 lower than my lowest weight before I had my 5-pound backfire over the last month! WOOT!

Babysteps!

Clothes are definitely getting looser and feeling a lot more energetic.

Some days I have to remind myself of how far I've come because the weight loss is really slow compared to other people I know.

In the last year, I have quit smoking, gone completely off of soda of any type, significantly reduced the amount of processed food I eat, and also added a significant amount of exercise to my normal routine.

I am no longer on blood pressure medication, my knees no longer hurt, my blood pressure is a normal number, and I don't wake up aching every morning.

That's a Virginia Slim "You've come a long way baby" moment if I've ever seen it!

Great news about the BP medication and no longer aching!!
That's great....I am happy for you...

Gemme -
It will get better.....

I went to the clinic, BP was normal and the scale at the
clinic actually is in sync with my scales!
The new suggestion is to split up my proteins so that
I have four meals a day now but with half the protein
at each meal than I am accustomed to.....
I just finished measuring everything out in 8 oz
portions, vacuum sealed and stuck in the freezer!

Oh well....the only thing that stays the same is change....
or so I've heard.....

:cigar2:

[foxyshaman]

It's been a hard week for me..
my Mémère isn't well, and my emotions are all over the place..
i'm very close with my grandparents, and found out this week she has an aggressive lung cancer and we're losing her to it - she's decided she didn't want treatment (and i don't blame her at almost 88 years old)..
:(

So she's home & my cousin and i decided to take this weekend off, we need to see her so we're travelling (5 hour drive) up to Petit Rocher and spending it with her.. i need this before i travel to Mr Mtn this Wednesday..♥

ANYway, this week has been full of triggers for me, and it's been difficult, and i'm losing myself and i need to regain control.. So this morning, right now i am getting ready for the gym, and heading out in a bout 15-20 mins..i reminded myself this morning, food is *NOT* my enemy, and so back to taking care of me properly..

Posting this here, helps me keep myself accountable so i will GO.
i make excuses in my own mind not to go, now i will..

Thank you all for the posts i could go through to help motivate me to post in here.. i've been absent, but only because my days have been difficult and busy..i will be back and catch up properly, rep and comment and love on you all because you all ROCK..

Just needed this frigging motivation and ass kicking this morning..
So thank you!!!

-- off i go --


I am sorry to hear Sylvie that you are experiencing such a rough week. Sometimes between our own 'stuff' and the other 'stuff' life hands us, we don't always know which way to go. Triggers suck and food is not the enemy. Stay motivated, as best you can. If you don't, we both know that our internal critic will wreak havoc on our gentle souls. Be kind to yourself, above all things, be kind and have compassion.

I know there is little I can say to ease you, but know I am thinking of you. I am rooting for you. And I am sorry you are losing a person you deeply love. I am glad she is not taking treatment, I think that is wise at 88. Love her as long as you have her, and love her with warm memories after she is gone.

As always, with love and hugs

Foxy

[deedarino]

On binging, I'd like to say this: I am a lifelong binger and I will BE a binger for the rest of my life. I don't know if this will be the same for anyone else here but I have resigned myself to realizing that no amount of "work" I do or weight I lose is going to reset that part of my brain because I learned binging as a tool so early in my life that it's just part of my marrow.

Admitting that is not a failure to me.

When I accepted the behavior as something that is going to crop up from time to time when I am triggered in certain ways, I feel more power over it because then it's "just part of my stress reaction" and not an angry monster terrorizing me.

I might not ever binge again in my life and will celebrate that heartily but if I do binge again, I'm going to treat it like hitting a nail on the highway. You change the tire and keep going. By changing the tire, I mean that we gain awareness every time we binge. Pretty soon, we can see the nail on the highway coming and might be able to change lanes to avoid it.

Changing lanes might mean changing our routine, or checking in extra often with ourselves, or going to a support group, or etc. Different strokes for different folks.

I have had 5 binges in the last 9 months. And don't get me wrong, these were bad mothers that meant thousands of calories, lots of self-deprecation, and feeling like giving up. All of them lasted 3 days or more because when I talk about binging, I don't mean I overate at one meal, I mean that I went on a food rampage and ate exhaustively for days to the point of wanting to throw up (and sometimes doing so). This also meant that I got to repeat my cycle of binge, weigh, freak out because I gained however many pounds, rinse and repeat.
Because the cycle helps us *stay* in the cycle if that makes any sense.

We become swirling eddies of food addiction where we get to have our food and our self-loathing too.

Fuck. That. Shit.

The world feeds us enough bullshit so we have to do better for ourselves. That takes believing that we are worth the fight.

That shit is HARD.

Just wanted to give huge props to every single person in this thread (and to the folks who read and don't post). This is an amazing thread and has been an amazing source of inspiration and support.

Much MUCH love.

This post is so wonderfully important in all things we use to keep us down.

Somewhere, someone told us that only successful people are good and wonderful and failures are pieces of crap and our brains believed it. When you trip, the thoughts come. You know, the ones you have calling yourself names and telling you to just forget the whole thing.

Tell those thoughts to fuck. that. shit. and you will be well on your way to gaining control.

You have to remember that NO ONE ever gets to the top without tripping, several times...

http://i379.photobucket.com/albums/oo238/deedarino/Sharing/121878733635237739_wafBgfPO_c.jpg

*Hugs* *Hugs* *Hugs* to all of you working your way through this. I know, it is the hardest thing I have ever done.

[Random]

I keep telling myself that when things get better, I will get better. But right now, it's more like a bunch of fake ass affirmations that are spitting out of my mouth.


But is it really a bunch of fake ass affiimations or are you just being hard on yourself?


We are so HARD on ourselves... That need to be perfect... To follow the plan in our heads to the letter and if we don't or can't then what does that say about us...

Did the word *Loser* pop into your head? Weak? Lazy?

What does the tape in your head tell you? Is it you talking to you or is it the tape of other peoples voices talking?

My tape says... *You keep going... no matter what..... keep putting one foot in front of another*
There is no other option but to pull yourself up by your own bootstrings and keep going.....
No matter how hurt/damaged/crippled you are... keep on going....

My tape lies...

I'm sorry for the derail, this isn't about weight loss per say... But Pinkies post made me think about the last three months of my life...

Dec 1,2011 I got fired from a job that I thougth was going to be the last job I ever had...
I became so obsessed with not making a mistake, that I made a mistake and then made an even bigger one trying to fix the first one...
By trying so hard to be perfect, there was no way to be anything but imperfect.

Dec 3,2011 My brother was murdered...

I broke.... My boots didn't have any strings any more....

I tried... but I couldn't get through an interview without talking about my brother and tearing up... Ya... WINNING....

I was in a black hole and I just wanted to pull it in after me... but I couldn't because you have to fight... ALWAYS....

I didn't start to get better until I stopped fighting so hard....
until I started being a bit more gentle with myself...

I started to bribe myself instead of beat myself up...

Instead of calling myself lazy because I slept all day and didn't do anything but put on a robe and play castleville,
I told myself...
you can have a nap if you leave the house...
Doesn't matter if it's a 12 hour nap as long as you leave the house...
you can't sleep until you do it...

I stopped trying to find full time perm work...
I signed up with a tem agency and did housekeeping and banquet service...
After a couple of weeks of bribing myself to go to work with a NAP!!!!!!
(You don't go to work, you can't sleep the day away, you go to work, work five hours and you can sleep as long as you want....)
I accepted a short term (four months) full time positon doing data entry...
No real thought required... just key in the name and size.

Last week I only took two naps... This week one....

Last week I started walking on my lunch half hour instead of sitting in my car reading...
While I was walking I saw two things that made me wish for my camera...

Today I repaired a lamp and started a painting...

I haven't really painted in five years...

I still have bad days... keying away with tears streaming down my face... hiding away in a book or a game so I don't have to deal... walking around with headphones on so I don't have to interact with anyone... I think the worst part right now is seeing a job that I would like to have/go after, but knowing that I'm not capable of rejoining the dog eat dog world...At THIS time.... (I think I need to be capable of cleaning the house before I can hold down the kind of jobs that interest me...)

But... I feel better..... this being gentle with myself, being softer with my percieved flaws...
It seems to be pushing me farther than beating myself up for not being *STRONG* enough to just do what I know needs to be done...

It feels like I'm winning by giving in....

[Cowboi]

Just got home from the gym. Im feelin the pump!!!!
I seem to be in a slump right now......but...I am not gaining any weight so that is good.
Glad to see everyone is doing a great job in here!!!
Happy saturday y'all.

[*Anya*]

But is it really a bunch of fake ass affiimations or are you just being hard on yourself?


We are so HARD on ourselves... That need to be perfect... To follow the plan in our heads to the letter and if we don't or can't then what does that say about us...

Did the word *Loser* pop into your head? Weak? Lazy?

What does the tape in your head tell you? Is it you talking to you or is it the tape of other peoples voices talking?

My tape says... *You keep going... no matter what..... keep putting one foot in front of another*
There is no other option but to pull yourself up by your own bootstrings and keep going.....
No matter how hurt/damaged/crippled you are... keep on going....

My tape lies...

I'm sorry for the derail, this isn't about weight loss per say... But Pinkies post made me think about the last three months of my life...

Dec 1,2011 I got fired from a job that I thougth was going to be the last job I ever had...
I became so obsessed with not making a mistake, that I made a mistake and then made an even bigger one trying to fix the first one...
By trying so hard to be perfect, there was no way to be anything but imperfect.

Dec 3,2011 My brother was murdered...

I broke.... My boots didn't have any strings any more....

I tried... but I couldn't get through an interview without talking about my brother and tearing up... Ya... WINNING....

I was in a black hole and I just wanted to pull it in after me... but I couldn't because you have to fight... ALWAYS....

I didn't start to get better until I stopped fighting so hard....
until I started being a bit more gentle with myself...

I started to bribe myself instead of beat myself up...

Instead of calling myself lazy because I slept all day and didn't do anything but put on a robe and play castleville,
I told myself...
you can have a nap if you leave the house...
Doesn't matter if it's a 12 hour nap as long as you leave the house...
you can't sleep until you do it...

I stopped trying to find full time perm work...
I signed up with a tem agency and did housekeeping and banquet service...
After a couple of weeks of bribing myself to go to work with a NAP!!!!!!
(You don't go to work, you can't sleep the day away, you go to work, work five hours and you can sleep as long as you want....)
I accepted a short term (four months) full time positon doing data entry...
No real thought required... just key in the name and size.

Last week I only took two naps... This week one....

Last week I started walking on my lunch half hour instead of sitting in my car reading...
While I was walking I saw two things that made me wish for my camera...

Today I repaired a lamp and started a painting...

I haven't really painted in five years...

I still have bad days... keying away with tears streaming down my face... hiding away in a book or a game so I don't have to deal... walking around with headphones on so I don't have to interact with anyone... I think the worst part right now is seeing a job that I would like to have/go after, but knowing that I'm not capable of rejoining the dog eat dog world...At THIS time.... (I think I need to be capable of cleaning the house before I can hold down the kind of jobs that interest me...)

But... I feel better..... this being gentle with myself, being softer with my percieved flaws...
It seems to be pushing me farther than beating myself up for not being *STRONG* enough to just do what I know needs to be done...

It feels like I'm winning by giving in....

Random,

Giving you a hug is not nearly enough for your willingness to be so open and honest to the bone here but I am giving you a tight one anyway.

I can't even imagine the pain of the loss of your brother. My condolences, truly.

The loss of your brother, along with the loss of your job at the same time, is hard for me to fathom. I think you are absolutely amazing to have dealt with all of it.

Your sharing your tape loop is so appreciated and yes, it does belong in this thread! I believe that each of us that struggle with our weight have our own individual loops. As I shared in my last post, I have my own. One recurring word in my own endless loop is always indeed "loser" and not in the positive, losing weight, sort of meaning.

Your own behavior modification program is also an excellent idea! Allowing ourselves a break or giving ourselves permission about anything is very difficult but I also believe that until we stop berating, punishing and critizing each and everything we do, we won't succeed at the very thing we want to accomplish so badly; regardless if it is losing weight or just getting out of bed each day when dealing with overwhelming loss.

Of course, for many of us-myself included-that ability to turn off the tape, and to reprogram it with a new and kinder message; is the most difficult of all to accomplish! I do work on turning off that old tape, probably 50 times a day lately but do succeed at least half the time. I will focus on the glass half-full, rather than half-empty! These days, for me, half of the time is the very best that I can do.

I am still dealing with cravings but it is getting better. Talk about tapes! If I start to thing about something I want to eat (meaning anything with sugar) it is almost impossible to stop thinking about for me. I have resisted for at least 5-6 days, maybe a week ( lost track of time/days) and it is getting better.

Thanks for sharing Random and to everyone that comes into this thread to be so open and honest to help not only themselves but to help each other.

[Scorp]

* NEWSFLASH*

After gaining nearly 20 lbs back...Guess who got back on Weight Watchers today? :weightshock:

ME

Show me the love peeps...Show me the love!!! :praying:

[deedarino]

I could feel the muscles in my arms today :-) and I noticed I have ankles, they are quite lovely these days. Sometimes you have to celebrate the small stuff.

[Zimmeh]

It has been awhile since I have posted in here and I truly miss it. Between my two jobs, the only day off that I have is Sunday and I'm finding it's hard to motivate myself to exercise. I am no longer participating in our food day at work, since most of the time it is junk food. I brought California rolls and a veggie tray the last time.

I am going to exercise tonight no matter how tired I am, it is something I need to do. I went clothes shopping last Tuesday and I bought my first dress in ten years from New York and Comoany. A dress that I will be bringing with me to LR!

I am still eating as healthy as I can and I'm not gaining any weight and not losing either.

Sylvie, hugs sweetie and hope you had a great weekend with your grandma.

Zimmeh

[PinkieLee]

Good morning & happy Monday healthy peeps!

I don't know if it's the gorgeous weather in Texas right now, or that I am starting to see the silver lining again, but I woke up in the most amazing mood today!

Yesterday I told D... tomorrow, I'm back at square one. Our fridge was pretty bare, because we were pretty much eating every. single. meal out. So, I went to the grocery store and loaded up on a bunch of good stuff.

Meals today...
Breakfast:
Raisin bran cereal with skim milk
a banana

Lunch:
tuna salad on wheat bread
fresh fruit

Dinner:
spaghetti (with whole wheat pasta & ground turkey and a lots of fresh mushrooms)
a light ceaser salad

Snacks:
apples and string cheese
or yogurt

Like Scorp, I'm starting with a clean slate today! I bit the bullet too, and weighed in this morning. And after almost a month of eating a whole lotta crap, I gained 8 pounds. I am NOT gonna beat myself up over the fall.... but instead celebrate I got my ass back up again! I believe in me!

I just wanted to say THANK YOU to everyone that sent so much love, support & encouragement my way. This journey is hard, but it's very nice to know that we have friends with us every step of the way.

I hope y'all have a great day!!!

[JoSchmooze]

I started this journey 32 days ago....
I could not even bend over to tie my own shoes...
My initial weight was 257 lbs...

Drum roll please....
Today's weight is 232.6 - down 24.4 lbs!
This morning I rode the stationary bike for 60 minutes!
I have a neck again!

A lot of little things will add up to bigger (or smaller, if you will)
rewards!

:cigar2:

[Leigh]

My dearest friends,

First of all, I just want to say how much I love and adore each and every one of you! For your courage, strength, openness, honesty and for the struggles that you all share on a daily basis with us. I have seen so much of myself in all of you at one point or another, that it makes me feel alot less alone in my way of thinking or how I do things. One of my biggest problems is that I beat myself up over the little things (or what I have always called failures) and its true I am my own worst critic. I admit that living at home with my father who is constantly judging me and criticizing me doesn't make it any easier, because its like he is inside my head judging everything that I do. The house that my parents are renting, the lease is up this July and I'm seriously thinking of finding a place on my own ~ its about time I did so, and plus this way I am out from under his roof which will do me more good than anything else.

I'm thankful to all of you for sharing these things with us, they give me hope and help me to realize that even when it seems like I am alone I'm not so thank you to all of you for just being you :heartbeat:

[Cowboi]

Today was leg day..... crawled to the car. LoL
Hope everyone had a easy Monday!!

[foxyshaman]

Today is Zumba... yeah sweating and shaking my booty..

and then (insert nervous laughter) I have my very first swimming lesson. I am very excited to FINALLY give myself confidence in the water. I am super excited. Like Super!!!

That is all

[sylvie]

Thank you everyone for your support concerning my grandmother, i really appreciate it.. ♥

Today, i am scattering about handling last minute details, because tomorrow morning early, i leave for Oregon! i have a long day of travelling.. Let's see..

Saint John to Montreal...
Montreal to Los Angeles...
Los Angeles to Medford, Oregon..
(i HATE Montreal airport, lol... Coming home i'm routed through Toronto, thank goodness!)

i leave at 6am from here, and will be arriving in Medford at 3am my time, lol!
i will be sitting in Los Angeles from 11:15am until 8:50pm..
LONG, right? lol..

my worry was foodwise how i would make out since i can't bring my own.. But, i know the Los Angeles airport pretty well having flown through there with my daughter in October and so i know there are some healthy restaurants i can hit up so i'm not too concerned..And needless to say i'll get a lot of walking in, during that time lol!

i'm so so so so so SO SO SO SO excited...
While in Oregon, i have my exercise all set up, i even have a running track, thanks to Mr Mtn *smiles* ... And eatingwise, i will stay very on track, He did the food shopping for Us yesterday!

<----------- anxious girl fulla flutterbees, *grinz*!
Hope you are all having a fabulous kinda day!

[foxyshaman]

So, then it would be fair to say that I had high hopes to get some work done when I got home last night, but I did not. I forgot how tiring an hour in the water can be. Especially after a zumba class. My body is tired. But I slept really good and had very deep dreams. Oh and clorine dries out my skin. My poor tats I thought they were gonna divorce me. I had a lovely grape seed oil bath. And then went to bed to read on the historical/mythological/spiritual connection between humans and bears. :cheerleader: Do I know how to live large or what!! :pointing:

So, tonite is Rush, which is a simple word for being yelled at :eyebrow:, constant cardio :thud: and weights. :heavyweight: And right after that I have to go to a clients house to clear it. Which is good, they apparently have a very active house... things flying around and whatnot. :scared: :nailbitin: Anyhooooooo.....

I am really feeling amazing differences in my body. :weightlifter: I feel my lean muscles when I move. My waist is shrinking and I am getting great thigh muscles. There is still fat there, but fuck whateva... I feel great. I think I need to work on my ass after this, those mule kick weight exercises. I don't want a flat ass. I really don't. I do quite a few squats and lunges now....

So if anyone has ideas pass 'em along!!!

[Thinker]

*waves*

Got back on track last week and have already dropped three pounds.

I went off WW a while back; and despite not working any sort of program at all, I only put back on a handful of the pounds I had lost.......I don't know...maybe about 6 total. Not too bad for 3-4 months of misbehaving. ;)

I'm tracking my calories using the food tracker at the USDA site. It helps me remember to balance my diet and eat my veggies.

Wishing you all the best... Gonna go back and read a few pages to see who is doing what! Cheers!!

[Novelafemme]

So, then it would be fair to say that I had high hopes to get some work done when I got home last night, but I did not. I forgot how tiring an hour in the water can be. Especially after a zumba class. My body is tired. But I slept really good and had very deep dreams. Oh and clorine dries out my skin. My poor tats I thought they were gonna divorce me. I had a lovely grape seed oil bath. And then went to bed to read on the historical/mythological/spiritual connection between humans and bears. :cheerleader: Do I know how to live large or what!! :pointing:

So, tonite is Rush, which is a simple word for being yelled at :eyebrow:, constant cardio :thud: and weights. :heavyweight: And right after that I have to go to a clients house to clear it. Which is good, they apparently have a very active house... things flying around and whatnot. :scared: :nailbitin: Anyhooooooo.....

I am really feeling amazing differences in my body. :weightlifter: I feel my lean muscles when I move. My waist is shrinking and I am getting great thigh muscles. There is still fat there, but fuck whateva... I feel great. I think I need to work on my ass after this, those mule kick weight exercises. I don't want a flat ass. I really don't. I do quite a few squats and lunges now....

So if anyone has ideas pass 'em along!!!

You are awesome! I love your attitude! Kick it, grrrrl ;)

[midwest chick]

Finally off work, will be with the daughter in California for the next 5 weeks!
Haven't really had time to check in here lately, and have had a few pounds come crawling home.....

Sitting at the airport, waiting for my first flight, I'm warning y'all now, I will be reading everything (and probably thanking most of) that's been posted for the last 2 weeks, so sorry if it is annoying--it's easy to get back on track, and accept a falter or mis-step in this environment. Not to mention the tips --yes, the ones that had I been stopping in faithfully may have prevented said fall, lol....

Time to get back on track--especially with the exercise!!!

[foxyshaman]

Thank you everyone for your support concerning my grandmother, i really appreciate it.. ♥

i leave at 6am from here, and will be arriving in Medford at 3am my time, lol!
i will be sitting in Los Angeles from 11:15am until 8:50pm..
LONG, right? lol..

Hope you are all having a fabulous kinda day!

OMFreaking Goddess 9 hours in the LA airport.... :blink: Good freaking grief. :| I would be bored - bored - bored **** with a sore ass. Well, at least you get a super awesome reward at the end of your long 'adventure'.

[Scorp]

Hellooooooooooooooo All You Beautiful People!

Thanks for showing me the love with getting back on track!

So far this is day #4 and I'm doing pretty well.

I had a wicked stressful day today. I was in expense hell with one of my bosses who has been traveling back and forth to Zurich and London. Needless to say his expenses were a friggon train wreck and I spent 4 miserable hours getting them situated.

By the third hour I started craving bad things due to my stress level. I had 2 twizzlers rather than anything really bad like chocolate. I also didn't get a chance to eat lunch because I wanted to clear up the bad situation and didn't want to take one minute away from my desk. I know it's not good to do that, but I had some fruit on my desk so I ate that. And I said to myself "fuck that, I'm not going to sabotage myself because of Mr. Dickhead waiting until the last minute to give me all his unorganized shit". In any case, I finished everything in a fashionable manner and I overcame the temptation of eating bad and I'm so glad I did!

Dinner was great! Had 3 oz. of chicken breast seasoned nicely on the Foreman and a baked sweet potato. So I'm pretty full right about now.

However, when I start to get hungry later and want to snack, I still have 15 points left, since I was unable to eat breakfast and lunch...Woo hoo!!!

Anyway, it's great to be back in this thread and again, thanks to everyone who welcomed me back with open arms and sent me messages.

Be well!

Best,
Scorp

:byebye:

[JoSchmooze]

Thank you everyone for your support concerning my grandmother, i really appreciate it.. ♥

Today, i am scattering about handling last minute details, because tomorrow morning early, i leave for Oregon! i have a long day of travelling.. Let's see..

Saint John to Montreal...
Montreal to Los Angeles...
Los Angeles to Medford, Oregon..
(i HATE Montreal airport, lol... Coming home i'm routed through Toronto, thank goodness!)

i leave at 6am from here, and will be arriving in Medford at 3am my time, lol!
i will be sitting in Los Angeles from 11:15am until 8:50pm..
LONG, right? lol..

my worry was foodwise how i would make out since i can't bring my own.. But, i know the Los Angeles airport pretty well having flown through there with my daughter in October and so i know there are some healthy restaurants i can hit up so i'm not too concerned..And needless to say i'll get a lot of walking in, during that time lol!

i'm so so so so so SO SO SO SO excited...
While in Oregon, i have my exercise all set up, i even have a running track, thanks to Mr Mtn *smiles* ... And eatingwise, i will stay very on track, He did the food shopping for Us yesterday!

<----------- anxious girl fulla flutterbees, *grinz*!
Hope you are all having a fabulous kinda day!

I have done a lot of traveling by air in the past 15 years
and I have never had a problem with bringing
food onto a plane. One time I even had a "lunch
pack" that had the ice packs in it. All I had to say was that I
was diabetic and they allowed it through TSA.
I am thinking that Canada could be the same....

Saturday, I had a friend come over to help me mount a flat screen in my bedroom....
Of course he got there after I had already moved ALL the furniture into a
new configuration so I could watch TV in bed! But the point is, I could do it
because I now have more energy from not dragging around all that weight!

Keep on trucking y'all!


:cigar2:

[Scorp]

Howdy Folks,

Was looking forward to breakfast for din din tonight and came up with my own omlette concoction I suck at making breakfast so my hot stuff wifey cooked it for me:

- 1/2 cup egg beaters
- 3 slices of turkey bacon (diced up)
- 1 wedge laughing cow french onion cheese
- Cooking Spray (butter flavored)

Pour the egg into the pan (heat on medium)
Once the egg isn't liquidity (on top) add the turkey bacon and cheese.
Fold over and there's your omlette.

It was sooo good!

And it was a total of 4 points!!!

:hangloose:

[princessbelle]

Hi healthiest!!!!!

We are sorta at a stand still at the moment. Still trying to eat good at least 90% of the time, but not exercising like we should. We will definitely get back on track though.

I did get good news at the doctor yesterday. I am down 10 pounds since January 1. My doc was very happy.

That first 10 is hard but it's a great way to get going and get motivated!!!!! Look out next 10, here i come!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rock on all you healthy people. You are ALL such an inspiration!!!!!

[Scorp]

Congratulations!!! Keep up the good work!


I did get good news at the doctor yesterday. I am down 10 pounds since January 1. My doc was very happy.

That first 10 is hard but it's a great way to get going and get motivated!!!!! Look out next 10, here i come!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rock on all you healthy people. You are ALL such an inspiration!!!!!

[PrudenceJuris]

[QUOTE=Scorp;542880]Howdy Folks,

Was looking forward to breakfast for din din tonight and came up with my own omlette concoction I suck at making breakfast so my hot stuff wifey cooked it for me:

- 1/2 cup egg beaters
- 3 slices of turkey bacon (diced up)
- 1 wedge laughing cow french onion cheese
- Cooking Spray (butter flavored)

Pour the egg into the pan (heat on medium)
Once the egg isn't liquidity (on top) add the turkey bacon and cheese.
Fold over and there's your omlette.

It was sooo good!

And it was a total of 4 points!!!

This reminded me how truly versatile eggs can be. I'm not fond of the yolks so I "share" those with my dog. I just recently took 1/2 doz and boiled them all about medium, then kept them in the fridge as quick pure protein snacks and/or additives to salads, veggie spreads, or other veggie dishes.

[Scorp]

I saved up most of my points for tonight. We are going to IHOP to have breakfast for dinner.

I'm going to get the Two x Two x Two which is a total of 10 points!

2 x 2 x 2 is: 2 buttermilk pancakes, 2 eggs, 2 slices of turkey bacon.

However, I will substitute the regular eggs for egg beaters.

I'll still have 2 points left for a snack later on tonight.

The only thing that will suck for me is having sugar-free syrup. I would normally drench my pancakes in regular syrup and have a puddle on the bottom of plate and spoon it up not letting one bit go to waste...

Lastly, tomorrow is my weigh in!! I was tempted to hop on the scale this morning but held back. Tomorrow is the day and so be it. I better have lost some lbs!!!

I worked really hard this week. And, if I lose a reasonable amount, that will inspire me to go on....

Stay Tuned!!!

[Scorp]

Good Morning Folks...

I weighed-in this morning and....

LOST 5 lbs!!!!! :cheer: :clap:

Let the journey continue on!!

[JoSchmooze]

Broke a barrier this morning....
228 and still counting...down
29 lbs....yeehaw!!

:cigar2:

[Scorp]

Woo hoo! You go Jo!!!



Broke a barrier this morning....
228 and still counting...down
29 lbs....yeehaw!!

:cigar2:

[Zimmeh]

Congratulations!!!!!!

Zimmeh

Good Morning Folks...

I weighed-in this morning and....

LOST 5 lbs!!!!! :cheer: :clap:

Let the journey continue on!!

[DapperButch]

I spent 20 minutes trying to find my first post which stated why I wanted to join this thread. I wanted to have a place to confess whether or not I was following through with exercise per doctor's orders due to a past health condition where it is especially important that I exercise daily. Even though weight loss was not my goal you all said it was cool for me to join this thread, so I did!

Anyway, I actually ended up gaining 10 lbs since that time ('cause I didn't follow through on exercising and chemo seemed to have changed my metabolism which was higher before treatment), which moved me outside my healthy weight zone. So now I am on the weight loss journey!

I am happy to say that I did decrease my portions that I mentioned was my plan a week or so ago and dropped 4lbs this week. Yippee! So, I would like to lose about another 9lbs to hit my goal weight.

Congrats to everyone who has dropped some weight recently through HEALTHY living!

[charlie1]

First of all, this is a great thread! I commend each and every one of you on your efforts and support of each other. I'm very impressed.

I am fortunate to be a little taller than average. And broad shouldered. So when I've had extra weight, most folks didn't notice it. I'm just a big person that has been involved in some sort of athletics all my life. However, when I was laid up after a wreck and gained weight - I felt like crap. Also, high cholesterol runs in my family regardless of what weight you're carrying. I am unable to take statins - they make me really, really sick...frankly i believe that's a good thing because they are really toxic even for those that tolerate them well. Just to share a few things that have worked for me...

Eat fresh foods - veggies, fruits, etc. The less packaging / processing the better. There's a lot of chemicals added to processed foods that make it addictive, can cause cancer or other maladies, etc. i sometimes buy frozen not only for the convenience but it is picked at the height of ripeness. you also don't have to worry about it going bad.

Protein - that's important. you may be vegan / vegetarian. whatever you are you need to make sure you eat plenty of protein animal, plant-based...you need it for lean muscle mass and lean muscle mass keeps your body's metabolism running on a more consistent basis throughout the day. i shoot for a gram per target body weight. i have two brother's that have done some serious body building off and on thru the years. i got that tip from them and some of these others.

Exercise - ease into it or you'll burn out quick. mix it up. your body will acclimate to an exercise you do every day and the return on investment will diminish. i like the gym and things i can do outdoors. spinning / cycling is a great way to burn calories fast and can be done indoors or out. don't forget that the rest of your body needs to be strong. and you always want to make sure you work opposing muscle groups equally to avoid injury. your core is just that - the core of what everything else plays off of. whatever exercise you do, make sure you are keeping your core engaged. suck in that tummy, tighten those glutes, etc.

Body Type / Ethnicity - we're all different. accept who you are and go for the best you! not everyone is meant to be a supermodel or a big muscle beast. be realistic. talk to your doctor about it. there's total hotness in all body types - at least i think so!

that's my start. gotta get ready for the day. feel free to shoot me off any questions or comments.

Later Champs!!!

[deedarino]

My clothes have gotten a bit frumpy but I am not ready to go out and buy anything yet. I figured I would wait until summer.

I found a couple of boxes in storage this week that were filled with "the clothes that i can't bear to give away cuz I might just fit into them someday" clothes. Guess what??? I FIT.

All size 20's. Started at 28. Haven't been here for close to 10 years.

(The clothes are 10 years old thank goodness. Just bought most of them "wishful thinking" lol)

[sylvie]

*waves to everyone*

love to all!
i quickly browsed through the thread to catch up with you all, and it makes me smile big getting all yer updates!
i will get to reps and my usual harrassing you healthies like i usually do soon, but have been a busy girl in Oregon, *smile*

i have been doing great with healthy eating - of course Mr Mtn sees that i do as well, He is a healthy eater Himself so truly we have such lovely cooking adventures together!

The pup and i go walking each day, yesterday we played and climbed snowbanks even, and i've been exercising otherwise, of course..Got some running shoes here and went for a few runs even!

Anyway, checking in to say happy girl, happy heart & staying on track!

JoSchmooze, wow really? i gotta say the only food i've been allowed to bring has been food that i purchase after going through security.. Drinks as well, they keep tossing anything i've had back in October so didn't even try this time, though i did forget my bottle of water in my bag and they took that from me this trip and tossed it, lol..

Catch up to ya's again when i can! Keep up the great work everyone ♥
((((huggggz)))) & Congrats on all the progress!!

[Cowboi]

Good evening to all!!! Had interveiw with a new trainer this afternoon. I think its gonna be good!!! He seemed very impressed with my journey so far. Not sure what he was expecting for a 55 yr old female, but im pretty sure it wasn't me!!! LoL Said I had very good skin tone, and posture for my age....ummm (whatever that means).
Gonna have some baked chicken breast , and spinach for dinner tonight.

Happy Monday Y'all!!!

[JoSchmooze]

*waves to everyone*

love to all!
i quickly browsed through the thread to catch up with you all, and it makes me smile big getting all yer updates!
i will get to reps and my usual harrassing you healthies like i usually do soon, but have been a busy girl in Oregon, *smile*

i have been doing great with healthy eating - of course Mr Mtn sees that i do as well, He is a healthy eater Himself so truly we have such lovely cooking adventures together!

The pup and i go walking each day, yesterday we played and climbed snowbanks even, and i've been exercising otherwise, of course..Got some running shoes here and went for a few runs even!

Anyway, checking in to say happy girl, happy heart & staying on track!

JoSchmooze, wow really? i gotta say the only food i've been allowed to bring has been food that i purchase after going through security.. Drinks as well, they keep tossing anything i've had back in October so didn't even try this time, though i did forget my bottle of water in my bag and they took that from me this trip and tossed it, lol..

Catch up to ya's again when i can! Keep up the great work everyone ♥
((((huggggz)))) & Congrats on all the progress!!

Hmmmm....
They will always take liquids away,
but things like sammiches, nuts or snacks can be
carried on here in the US.
Again, if you let them know that you are diabetic
they usualy (and I say usually because this has been
my experience) they will let you keep your "lunch container"
with it's ice packs....

I too saw a trainer today and just like Cowboi I am not
sure what they expected when I walked in the door.
I start working with 2 trainers on Thursday morning - and then
I can decide which one I like better - the male or the
female.....
Anyone want to make bets as to which I will probably pick??

:cigar2:

[Sparkle]

Hello Healthy People!

Just a quick check in 'cause I'm so bloody proud of myself at the moment, I've finished the C25k program and today I ran my first 30-minute run post-program, I also upped my pace just a little bit so I feel like I'm finally making progress again! Hoorah!

Other than that I am still in plateau-land in terms of weight loss, it was driving me crazy so I've jammed my scale in the back my closet (with my iron) and I don't intend on looking at it for awhile (and if it suffers the same fate as my iron, a reallllllly looooooong while).

I've decided I'm just going to carry on running 3x a week, cycling a little here and there and trying to get to 2 pilates classes a week. Once I've mastered that I'll increase my running to 4x a week.

I think I may start doing WW again too since I saw good results with that and I am not been such a conscientious calorie counter (WW points are just a bit easier to deal with, I think). I will continue to take my nutritionists advice regarding several small meals and trying to have 1 high protein item per meal/snack.

And I am hoping, eventually, I'll start to see the pounds diminishing again.

Keep keeping on, everyone!

Gold sparkly stars all around!

[Gemme]

Good evening to all!!! Had interveiw with a new trainer this afternoon. I think its gonna be good!!! He seemed very impressed with my journey so far. Not sure what he was expecting for a 55 yr old female, but im pretty sure it wasn't me!!! LoL Said I had very good skin tone, and posture for my age....ummm (whatever that means).
Gonna have some baked chicken breast , and spinach for dinner tonight.

Happy Monday Y'all!!!

It means you have good bone density and that you're not having any obvious osteo issues.

[Rockinonahigh]

Hi ya'll.It's been a while since I really went back to the weight loss program in ernest,the reason is my back has been a reall bad nasty jerk the last fue weeks to the point i've been useing pain meds a bit more than useual just to get through the day.The doc had given me a shot of antinflatory meds to help with the inflamation in my hip then gave me another shot of steriods to help as well,evreytime I get one of those in a couple of days the scale jumps up a fue pounds,if I had known he was going to give me a shot of steroids I wouldnt have taken it cause of the weight gain factor.Today I fely well enough to try working out for a bit and did a fairly good work out,even rode the bike for ten minits before my hip hollered to stop.Another thing that helped a lot was geting a couple of pair of spandex thights that suport my lower back and left thigh comfortably,I hadnt found any before that fit but I got some today ...worked really well.So im back to the grind stone takeing it one day at the time.

[JustJo]

Hello healthies :)

Dinner tonight was stir-fried chicken breast and brown rice with onion, celery, garlic, broccoli, cabbage and corn....with a little soy sauce. Yummy!

[charlie1]

Hi ya'll.It's been a while since I really went back to the weight loss program in ernest,the reason is my back has been a reall bad nasty jerk the last fue weeks to the point i've been useing pain meds a bit more than useual just to get through the day.The doc had given me a shot of antinflatory meds to help with the inflamation in my hip then gave me another shot of steriods to help as well,evreytime I get one of those in a couple of days the scale jumps up a fue pounds,if I had known he was going to give me a shot of steroids I wouldnt have taken it cause of the weight gain factor.Today I fely well enough to try working out for a bit and did a fairly good work out,even rode the bike for ten minits before my hip hollered to stop.Another thing that helped a lot was geting a couple of pair of spandex thights that suport my lower back and left thigh comfortably,I hadnt found any before that fit but I got some today ...worked really well.So im back to the grind stone takeing it one day at the time.

it can be a vicious cycle. but if you can start taking some weight off and strengthen your core, you will have less back pain. but then you wrench your back again and put the weight back on. the weight adds more stress to your back. have they done a mri? ever get a second opinion? i've heard this new pettibone system some chiropractors are utilizing now is really effective.

[Rockinonahigh]

it can be a vicious cycle. but if you can start taking some weight off and strengthen your core, you will have less back pain. but then you wrench your back again and put the weight back on. the weight adds more stress to your back. have they done a mri? ever get a second opinion? i've heard this new pettibone system some chiropractors are utilizing now is really effective.

I had an mri a couple of years a go but not sence,the doc then wanted to do some barbaric chop job on me I refused to do because I know ther are better thing to do.On the 21st I go see the LSU docs again if they keep draging me around I will make an appointment with the louisians spinal hospital that I spoke wiuht a while back,I go an medicare on april first and they will take what madicare pays,atleast I will have some better choices then.I did use a chiro for a while but he was stuck in the old ways of doing things so I would be in and out of the office in ten minits.I've nit herd about the pettibone system,do you have nay info or knownwhere I can get infor about it.Thanks for this new bit of info.

[PrudenceJuris]

Hey folkes!!

I made a delicious dinner and thought I would share the details.
Tonight I roasted a pork loin and had it with broccoli and asparagus!

The pork loin was marinated overnight (while thawing) in rosemary, oregano, garlic, smoked salt, cracked pepper, 4 Tbs olive oil, and 4 Tbs balsamic vinegar. I let it come to room temp and roasted it with honey crisp apples (washed and left whole). I poured 1/2 cup of water in the bottom of the roasting pan covered it with foil and cooked on 350 for 70 mins. The meat came out tender, juicy, and delicious. I steamed broccoli and asparagus then made a sauce of 2 Tbs butter, 3 chopped cloves of garlic, and the juice of one whole lemon. Melted the sauce and tossed the veggies in it to coat them.

My calculations put this meal at 475 calories with 5g Carbs, 35g Fat, 31g Protein.

[JustJo]

Hello healthies :)

I'm in a bit of a weird place weight-loss-wise, but overall very pleased with my healthy progress. My scale was totally stuck for weeks, then I dropped a couple pounds, and now it appears stuck again.

I'm okay with this.

I've been going to Curves 3 times a week pretty faithfully....missing one day for illness, and skipping one while Snack was here because we walked on the beach for about 3 miles the day before and about 10 miles at Disney the day after the usual Curves day.

I'm seeing and feeling differences. My belly is smaller. My butt is smaller and tighter. My thighs are slimmer. I have biceps....not huge, but visible and getting firm. My face and neck look a little slimmer. I'm back in the "daily" jeans I wore in NY....and haven't fit into for a couple years. My pajamas and sweatpants are loose and getting baggy.

I also saw the difference yesterday in my shopping cart.

I had a call earlier in the day that my mother was back in the hospital. On top of hearing that if the new chemo doesn't work she has 4 - 8 months left....well, I'm stressed. Normally, that would mean a total binge on all the crap I use to comfort myself.

After the call, I went grocery shopping.

My cart was pretty full.....1% milk, orange juice, chicken breast, lean ground beef, pork chops, broccoli, cabbage, onions, potatoes, oranges, pears, carrots, bananas, green beans, organic greens for salad, nectarines...and much more....almost all lean meat and produce.

My only concessions to stress were a small bag of Wavy Lays and a container of Helluva Good French Onion dip....plus a single small bottle of Coke Zero.

After Rooster went to bed, I sat down on the couch and had some chips and dip and my soda.

Yes, I was feeding my upset, and comforting myself with food. And I knew it. And I made it okay.

I also ate only a fairly normal serving of chips....not the whole bag. The container of dip has a little identation in the top....but it is far from empty. That's progress.

More importantly, it isn't calling me from the cupboards and fridge.

I had my workout this morning....my coffee....a container of greek yogurt. In a little while I think I'll have an orange.

I feel like I'm finally getting to the point where I am regularly incorporating exercise into my life....and I'm controlling what I eat....even when some heavy stuff is eating me.

That's good. :rrose:

[Zimmeh]

Good Morning Everyone,

I've been walking around the outlet malls the last few days. I have been eating small portions which I am having a problem with. After an hour I am looking for a snack which is not helping me with my weight loss.

I am bringing yogurt and granola bars to work with me.

Zimmeh

[JoSchmooze]

Good Morning Everyone,

I've been walking around the outlet malls the last few days. I have been eating small portions which I am having a problem with. After an hour I am looking for a snack which is not helping me with my weight loss.

I am bringing yogurt and granola bars to work with me.

Zimmeh

Keep up the good work!!

When you say you are eating small portions
the questions you have to ask yourself are:
1. Am I eating enough protein in those smaller portions.
Most diets recommend 3 - 6 oz protein for a lunch and dinner meal.
2. Are you eating enough fruits and veggies?
Many fruits and veggies have enough natural sugars/carbs to sustain you
through those "hunger pains".
3. Are you eating on schedule - or when you feel hungry?
The American Diabetic Association recommends at least
4 meals a day - at regular intervals. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and dinner.
A piece of fruit (apple, orange, 6-9 large strawberries, half
a grapefruit) are excellent sources of both vitamins and
enough natural sugars to get you through the afternoon.

And then there is exercise to release natural endorphins,
but that's another story in and of itself....

*Getting back down off my soapbox*

Have a great hump day, y'all.....

:cigar2:

[PinkieLee]

Hey y'all healthy peeps!

Life is still moving pretty damn fast around here for us. Luckily, I've made it a point to celebrate the good days and remind myself that when a bad day hits, that tomorrow will be better. I'm not gonna lie, my depression & anxiety levels have been through the roof and I had a breakdown one early morning while soaking in the bathtub.

I haven't been charting my food as well as I should. But, I have been more aware of what I am eating... and monitoring portion size a lot closer. I have splurged on a margarita or two & dinner out with friends, but have not had a binge day in over a week. I am taking my food addiction one. meal. at. a. time.

Meals planned for the day...

Breakfast:
raisin bran cereal with skim milk
a banana

Lunch:
leftover grilled chicken breast, baby spinach & sliced avacado salad
watermelon

Dinner:
lean roast with fresh mushrooms & a reduced sodium brown gravy
brown rice
fresh green beans

We have plans to hit the gym tonight... ready to get back into a somewhat normal routine again :)

Hope y'all have a great day!

[JustJo]

My only concessions to stress were a small bag of Wavy Lays and a container of Helluva Good French Onion dip....plus a single small bottle of Coke Zero.

After Rooster went to bed, I sat down on the couch and had some chips and dip and my soda.

Yes, I was feeding my upset, and comforting myself with food. And I knew it. And I made it okay.

I also ate only a fairly normal serving of chips....not the whole bag. The container of dip has a little identation in the top....but it is far from empty. That's progress.

More importantly, it isn't calling me from the cupboards and fridge.


So....after a conversation with the hospital, and the realization that I'm probably going to have to insist that my mother move back in with me until the end....the chips and dip started calling.

I answered. I ate about 10 chips with dip....and started to feel sick to my stomach.

I did what any healthy peep would do.....and dropped them both in the garbage can. I grabbed a banana instead.

I'm giving myself big points for that today. :rrose:

[Zimmeh]

Hey Jo,

I do eat a lot of protein. Usually it's I'm Greek Yogurt, peanut butter or whole nuts and chicken. I eat a lot of broccoli, carrots, corn, beans and potatoes. After my initial weight loss, my stomach shrunk and i can no longer eat regular sized portions. Another issue is that I work a very wild schedule. I'm trying to keep what I am eating healthy.

Thanks for the info and have a good night,

Zimmeh

Keep up the good work!!

When you say you are eating small portions
the questions you have to ask yourself are:
1. Am I eating enough protein in those smaller portions.
Most diets recommend 3 - 6 oz protein for a lunch and dinner meal.
2. Are you eating enough fruits and veggies?
Many fruits and veggies have enough natural sugars/carbs to sustain you
through those "hunger pains".
3. Are you eating on schedule - or when you feel hungry?
The American Diabetic Association recommends at least
4 meals a day - at regular intervals. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and dinner.
A piece of fruit (apple, orange, 6-9 large strawberries, half
a grapefruit) are excellent sources of both vitamins and
enough natural sugars to get you through the afternoon.

And then there is exercise to release natural endorphins,
but that's another story in and of itself....

*Getting back down off my soapbox*

Have a great hump day, y'all.....

:cigar2:

[canmarielan]

I am soooo proud of everyone and their progress!!!

KEEP MOVING!!!

Also, don't forget about my weight loss blog! New posts at least once a week! *hugs*

http://mynewdefinition.wordpress.com/2012/03/15/stairs-yeah-i-love-em/

[JoSchmooze]

And so.....
First meeting with the trainer...
a "snot-nosed kid" (probably about 30 yr old)
was pushing my fat ass through the circuit...
OY!! He sked what I did in the Army and
I told him about PT - but FFS that was 30 years
ago! I felt a little shaky on the drive home
but I had some fruit and a lot of water so I am good to go!

Keep on trucking, y'all....
JustJo.....good on you for throwing the junk food in the trash!

:cigar2:

[-Red-Flag-]

-peeks in-

Just seeing on how everyone's doing.

I'm still trying to stick to weight watchers..
Some days it's a struggle...but I'm still trying to make better overall choices ...

Currently I'm 25.2 lbs down ... In 6 lbs I'll be at a personal goal for me.

We can do it ... I can do it ...

My new favorite personal quote ...

The only thing standing between you and your goal is the bullshit story you keep telling yourself as to why you can't achieve it !!!

Good luck folks

:)

[justkim]

In just over 8 weeks I have managed to lose 10 inches... All the while being sick and broken... my feet that is... signed up today for another 6 week small group program... 2 times a week at 5 am... I must be off of my rocker... We will be modifying exercises to make sure I don't further injure my feet or shoulders... going to make an attempt to get into the pool... I must find a kick board to make this happen...

Keep up the journey to a better and healthier you everyone...

If you are on my face book I have a bunch of motivational workout stuff that I subscribe to... I love them! Please feel free to look me up on fb or send me a pm, so you to can enjoy them...

[SelfMadeMan]

I am soooo proud of everyone and their progress!!!

KEEP MOVING!!!

Also, don't forget about my weight loss blog! New posts at least once a week! *hugs*

http://mynewdefinition.wordpress.com/2012/03/15/stairs-yeah-i-love-em/

ROCKSTAR!!! Anyone who hasn't checked out this blog, please do!! So motivational!

[Cowboi]

Getting ready to go to the gym. I workout with my new trainer for the 1st time. I'm gonna feel like Im cheating on my old trainer..LoL
Pre workout supplements are in, and i'm off!!!

Everyone keep up the good work!!!! Have a great afternoon.

[JustJo]

Good morning healthies :)

I'm celebrating over here. Even though my scale has been pretty much stuck, I've kept on with my exercising....and today showed that it really is paying off.

I had my monthly weigh and measure day at Curves. I've lost 3 lbs. in the last month...not huge, but still going in the right direction.

The exciting stuff, however, is that I've lost 10 inches....1/4 inch off my bust, 1/2 an inch from each upper arm, 1-3/4 inches off my waist, 1 inch off my hips, and 6 inches off my abdomen!

This makes me completely happy. I am totally comfortable with having the body shape I do, including the big butt. :) My health concerns are what is driving this effort....and losing so many inches off my waist and belly means that good stuff is happening inside.

There have been lots of studies that show the fat on our butts and thighs and such isn't nearly as unhealthy as that belly fat...which seems to have a mind of its own.

My first health-related weight/measurement goal is to get my waist under 35" since that's a critical number for women. As of this morning it's 37.25 ....so I'm only a couple inches away. :cheesy:

They also measure body fat percentage and, while mine is entirely too high for good health, it went down by .8% this month. That's good stuff.

So...for those of us wrestling with the plateaus....hang in there and keep exercising. Good stuff is still happening even if it isn't showing too much on the scale.

Hugs to you all!

[charlie1]

I've nit herd about the pettibone system,do you have nay info or knownwhere I can get infor about it.Thanks for this new bit of info.

google it and find a doc in your area

[Scorp]

Tomorrow is my weigh-in day and I'm a tad nervous. I hope I lost at least 3 lbs. I've been real conscious of my food in-take but went a little overboard with my points during my evening snacking a few nights this week.

Hoping it will all turn out ok.

[PinkieLee]

Tomorrow is my weigh-in day and I'm a tad nervous. I hope I lost at least 3 lbs. I've been real conscious of my food in-take but went a little overboard with my points during my evening snacking a few nights this week.

Hoping it will all turn out ok.

No worries Jackie... that's what those extra points are for! I bet you are gonna pull off another big loss!

[PinkieLee]

Good morning healthies :)

I'm celebrating over here. Even though my scale has been pretty much stuck, I've kept on with my exercising....and today showed that it really is paying off.

I had my monthly weigh and measure day at Curves. I've lost 3 lbs. in the last month...not huge, but still going in the right direction.

The exciting stuff, however, is that I've lost 10 inches....1/4 inch off my bust, 1/2 an inch from each upper arm, 1-3/4 inches off my waist, 1 inch off my hips, and 6 inches off my abdomen!

This makes me completely happy. I am totally comfortable with having the body shape I do, including the big butt. :) My health concerns are what is driving this effort....and losing so many inches off my waist and belly means that good stuff is happening inside.

There have been lots of studies that show the fat on our butts and thighs and such isn't nearly as unhealthy as that belly fat...which seems to have a mind of its own.

My first health-related weight/measurement goal is to get my waist under 35" since that's a critical number for women. As of this morning it's 37.25 ....so I'm only a couple inches away. :cheesy:

They also measure body fat percentage and, while mine is entirely too high for good health, it went down by .8% this month. That's good stuff.

So...for those of us wrestling with the plateaus....hang in there and keep exercising. Good stuff is still happening even if it isn't showing too much on the scale.

Hugs to you all!

YOU GO SISTA! Woooooooohooooooooooo look at all your hard work paying off! You should feel super proud of yourself... and we are all hella proud of you, too!

[Scorp]

Ohhh Rosie, I hope so...I need all the help I can get....Of course I'll post the outcome tomorrow!!

Thanks! xo :)




No worries Jackie... that's what those extra points are for! I bet you are gonna pull off another big loss!

[deedarino]

Finally got noticed! My boss said yesterday, "Wow"...among some other things but then everyone chimed it. One of my co-workers said, "I was walking behind you when I noticed how much you have lost, but I didn't say anything cuz it would have been awkward that I was looking at your ass...." LOL

Best compliment ever.

[foxyshaman]

Good morning healthies :)

I'm celebrating over here. Even though my scale has been pretty much stuck, I've kept on with my exercising....and today showed that it really is paying off.

Hugs to you all!

That just feels so frickin' good doesn't it. Congratulations to you.

[firegal]

been goin to the gym for a month now1

Its been years.... Its killin me :king:

But it feels Right and finaaly losing all this weight.... stress eating does me in.

Im sleepingbetter and have a spring in my step!

YES!

[Scorp]

Hey Folks,

I just weighed in and was a bit disappointed. :weightshock:

I lost 1.8 lbs. Was hoping to have at least dropped 3 lbs this week after staying within my point ranges (and extra point allowance for the week).

Not sure why it wasn't more than that, but in any case, it is, what it is.

I know, I know...It's better than gaining, no matter what anyone says. Not enough words can encourage me about this somewhat disappointment. Believe me, I know how the program works since I've been doing it off and on for the last 10 years or so.

This is how I am when I say there is NO gray area with me. I'm a stubborn Scorpion and I'll get over it. As they say "Keep calm & carry on"....Pfffftttttttt :eyebrow:.

:rant: :censor:

P.S. fuck, fuck, fuckity fuck...

The End...

[Gemme]

Hey Folks,

I just weighed in and was a bit disappointed. :weightshock:

I lost 1.8 lbs. Was hoping to have at least dropped 3 lbs this week after staying within my point ranges (and extra point allowance for the week).

Not sure why it wasn't more than that, but in any case, it is, what it is.

I know, I know...It's better than gaining, no matter what anyone says. Not enough words can encourage me about this somewhat disappointment. Believe me, I know how the program works since I've been doing it off and on for the last 10 years or so.

This is how I am when I say there is NO gray area with me. I'm a stubborn Scorpion and I'll get over it. As they say "Keep calm & carry on"....Pfffftttttttt :eyebrow:.

:rant: :censor:

P.S. fuck, fuck, fuckity fuck...

The End...

I'm not trying to encourage you, but did you have any stress this week? Stress tends to be counterproductive for losing weight.

Okay, go back to being ornery! :)

[JoSchmooze]

Scorp, bro.....
I know how you feel...
I have only lost 7.8 lbs for the month (2 weeks)
after having lost 15 lbs for the first month....
We'll both get there....

P. to the S.....I agree - fuck, fuck fuckittry fuck

:cigar2:

[Scorp]

I am in LOVE with Dannon Oikos (fruit on the bottom) Greek "NON-FAT" yogurt.


This is soooooooooooo good!!!! And it's only 3 points for 5.3 oz. It's very filling because it's thick. But wow I was shocked how good it is and now a huge fan.

Flavors: Blueberry and Black Cherry...I didn't see Strawberry but hoping to find it.
:cheer:

[-Red-Flag-]

Bad bad weekend here, I went to Boston and left my damn diet home ...

Ugh ... So, I didn't even get on the scale .. It's going to be a rough summer, I do like my corona lights !!!

Here's to a new week ...

[starryeyes]

I have been far off track... So here I am 4 lbs heavier now!!!! It creeps up so quick. My girlfriend is stopping smoking today, and I am getting back in track. Here's to a good week!! No more frozen yogurt!! :-D

Smiles!

[sylvie]

Good Morning everyone <3

Thought i would post and say hellooo..
i've been here in Oregon and of course, not going to the Gym, and not using my workout equipment at home..

But, i have been working out (not as much as i would if i were home) and i have been eating really, really well..And i know i've lost some lbs still in this 2 weeks because of the way my clothes are fitting, and truly i figured if i went back to Saint John with no gain, i would have been a happy camper! So, i'm a happy girl.

i was saying to Mr Mtn the other day that my eating habits have changed dramatically since i got here.. i dont eat the 3 meals and 2 snacks like i do when back in SJ.. And i was all excited about the fact i eat less until He burst my bubble and said He realizes this and sneaks in calories, LOL... Here i was all happy thinking i had a much lower calorie intake..

And honestly though, a lower calorie intake wouldnt be healthy for me, as i already take in 1200 calories a day, so.. i know better.. (but the compulsive overeater was silently screaming yaaaaaaay inside when i thought i was getting less, lol)

Anyway, once back i will be making sure to get my weigh in with the Dietician, and get myself back on track with my programs and workouts..

Much love to all, and keep up the great work!

[Scorp]

Hope you enjoyed Boston (my hometown)

Did you make it to the North End (Little Italy) where each corner you turn there is a restaurant and pastry shop.

If so, that'll explain why you fell off the wagon ;)

Bad bad weekend here, I went to Boston and left my damn diet home ...

Ugh ... So, I didn't even get on the scale .. It's going to be a rough summer, I do like my corona lights !!!

Here's to a new week ...

[Zimmeh]

I had the honey one for lunch today with an Odwalla chocolate soy smoothie for lunch today. If I'm feeling like ice cream, I will take a plain or vanilla Greek yogurt, add three maraschino cherries-minus the juice-, a small sprinkle of almonds and mix it together. It is a great dessert and doesn't have more than 300 calories.

Zimmeh

I am in LOVE with Dannon Oikos (fruit on the bottom) Greek "NON-FAT" yogurt.


This is soooooooooooo good!!!! And it's only 3 points for 5.3 oz. It's very filling because it's thick. But wow I was shocked how good it is and now a huge fan.

Flavors: Blueberry and Black Cherry...I didn't see Strawberry but hoping to find it.
:cheer:

[Zimmeh]

I was very good this weekend. My friend got married on Saturday and I had carrots, celery, three pieces of cheese, one grilled chicken breast, green beans and cole slaw. I had a small slice of wedding cake.

I found these Kellogg's cracker chips and granola bars. I am taking them for snacks and I'm starting to notice that my pants are little loose :)

Zimmeh

[Scorp]

Yep, love these too the (Sour Cream & Onion) flavor. 27 chips (1 serving) are only 3 points...They remind me of those puffed chips from years ago called Munchos but with 1/2 the calorires.

I highly recommend these folks...


I found these Kellogg's cracker chips and granola bars. I am taking them for snacks and I'm starting to notice that my pants are little loose :)

Zimmeh

[-Red-Flag-]

Hope you enjoyed Boston (my hometown)

Did you make it to the North End (Little Italy) where each corner you turn there is a restaurant and pastry shop.

If so, that'll explain why you fell off the wagon ;)

No south end this time. We ended up at medival manor. Great time, bad food for the diet as well as the ever abundant pitchers of beer!!

I'm in Boston a lot in the summer on my bike.. If you ever travel north to Maine give me a shout..

I'm we didn't go to the north end .. I would have died !!

[Zimmeh]

I bought the sea salt flavor and they are good!

Zimmeh

Yep, love these too the (Sour Cream & Onion) flavor. 27 chips (1 serving) are only 3 points...They remind me of those puffed chips from years ago called Munchos but with 1/2 the calorires.

I highly recommend these folks...

[JoSchmooze]

Nothing much happening here on the diet front....
Cheated a bit on Saturday - no green beer but
some "appetizers" at a friend's house for St. Patty's
Day.....damned sour cream!

I went to the gym both Saturday and Sunday, but my
dang arms are sore as hell, so I thought I'd skip a day.
It's suddenly winter here and I am about half froze with
the wind and the ice and freakin' snow left than 2 miles from
my house....it won;t get better until the end of the week.

I may or may not go to the gym later this evening....

:cigar2:

[justkim]

Tomorrow I begin another 5 a.m small group workout... there are only 8 of us and it really is fun. We keep each other going when we feel like we can't go any further... Now that my feet are feeling better,at least for right now I am going to do what I can and keep the high impact stuff to a minimum. My trainer says we will just modify what we can and go from there, did I mention I adore this woman?
To everyone finding little bumps in the road... you got this! We got this! Keep your face to the sun... and remember to forgive yourself...

[JustJo]

Hi healthies :)

Still rocking out the 3 times a week at Curves....walked 3 miles on the beach on Saturday...finding my own natural portion control kicking in and what I eat getting smaller and smaller...

I do have a little goal that I'd love to achieve...kind of a happy 50th birthday gift to myself...and that is to be under 200 lbs for the first time in probably 6 or 7 years.

Yesterday, the scale said 200.8 ....this morning 201.1....

I have another week to go.

Cross your fingers for me. :)

[starryeyes]

I was on track today! Day one down...

Morning-

6oz Chobani Greek Yogurt
Blackberries
One hard boiled egg
One morning star veggie patty
6pp

Lunch-
Venti Skinny iced cinnamon dolce latte
Spinach wrap
10pp

Dinner-
Chipotle chicken burrito bowl
10pp

Snack-
5oz canned salmon
3oz brown rice
5pp

Snack-
Grapes
Low fat string cheese
1pp

[Zimmeh]

Good Morning Everyone,

I was so good yesterday! I avoided the sweets as much as I could and came home to a very yummy dinner. To bad, I fell asleep on the couch before I could go power walking...

Today I am having:

Breakfast:

2 scrambled eggs
1 flour tortilla
1/2 teaspoon of medium salsa
sprinkle of cheese
3 Coffee Mate Original creamer tubs-they have 10 calories per tub-which is better than the refrigerated version
12oz cup of coffee
8oz glass of soymilk

Lunch:

Leftovers

Snacks:
Kelloggs Granola Bar
Kelloggs Snack Chips
Chobani Black Cherry Greek Yogurt

Dinner:
Open

I downloaded the LoseIt app yesterday for my iPhone, and noticed that you can now scan the barcode on the food..Which is neat...Everything comes up correct as to what is on the package...

Have a great day,

Zimmeh

[justkim]

Had a great workout this morning. There was only 3 women from the last small group. New faces... Yay! I may not be so excited later when I can't walk... It was a very intense leg workout and I am sure I will be feeling it later. Nothing like feeling alive and revived well before 6 a.m.

Have a fantastic day everyone! Remember today is a new day to be a better and healthier you...

[girl_dee]

i need your motivation Kim, maybe now that spring has sprung i will find some...

ps i don't like water... unless it comes in the form of coffee

[deedarino]

I have been sooo good for sooo long that I don't get cravings much anymore. Unfortunately that damn ketchup thread has me wanting french fries. Ugh.

I hope it goes away. Soon.

[girl_dee]

just thinking out loud here...

lately several people, including a couple of clients have told me that they have gone on the God diet.. in other words, nothing processed. One woman shared her story with me.

She made a conscious effort to go shopping and not pick out anything processed, (she lived on box dinners and such being a busy woman, it was convenient,) when she hit 330 pounds, was always aching and headachy, she knew she had to make a change.

She left the grocery store with about 3 things and spent $20.00. She was sure she was going to starve to death. She said EVERYthing is processed in some way.... she was really worried about what she was going to do!

Then she started researching how to make things from scratch, how to eat sensibly and enjoy it. After a year and a half she lost 60 pounds, without counting a calorie or anything, had no more arthritic pain, had more energy than ever and is still losing, she said the withdrawal period was tough but once she was off of processed foods she no longer craved them, in fact, they made her sick now. She said she is STILL detoxifying from years of eating out of boxes.

i'm happy for her

[justkim]

i need your motivation Kim, maybe now that spring has sprung i will find some...

ps i don't like water... unless it comes in the form of coffee

I will share...
Some days are easier than others...
I want to be able to feel comfortable in my new swimsuit... two piece... black with pink polka dots... way cute...

Even with the weight I have lost I still have a hard time wearing clothes that show my body... I need to work on this...

[deedarino]

I started this "Journey" about 4 years ago when I left my last relationship. I was completely unhappy and stressed and, and over time, had gotten up to 310. I then quit looking at the scale. I was ashamed and even more stressed. I hated myself and hid from my friends and family.

A friend from work told me about South Beach and we started it...Hard as hell to stick to but I lost about 20 lbs and felt great! Of course this started a pattern of lose 20, quit. Gain 10, start again. For the last 3 years. It has been a long road. Eventually I stayed at around 267.

In December, my friend lit a fire under me again and again I started, but something different happened. I had what I am sure was an allergic reaction to some wheat pastry my dad made for me. I started researching gluten and I was sold! I have cut out gluten (in addition to sugar) from my diet completely and it became EASY.

I eat whatever I want, mostly. Good thing, I want good things. I drink lotsss of water, take vitamins everyday, fiber, and healthy herbs. I eat meat and dairy (lightly), lots o veggies, fruit, beans, nuts and have found that wild/brown rice products do not stall weight loss. With South Beach, as soon as I added in whole grains, the cravings would come back as would the weight.

Occasionally I get cravings for the old crap, and if I do I try to find a healthy version. So far so good. I am at 245 and counting. I feel good and strong, and finally feel like this is a lifestyle, not a diet.

I have never told anyone my weight before...I always kept it vague. Now I just told a bazillion people. Maybe I am not ashamed anymore. This body may look fat to some people, but I know from whence I came...

[SelfMadeMan]

KUDOS to all of you for staying with your goals and working hard! I was doing GREAT during the fall, and lost over 30#, but have put some of it back on. Now, with summer right around the corner, and some trips coming up, it's time to get my ass in gear! I'm starting back on what was working so well, our Amazing Grass smoothies and a pescetarian diet, no more soft drinks, and LOTS of H2O! I got this :)

[justkim]

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/421987_233131633440310_232450250175115_499765_7372 85840_n.jpg

[starryeyes]

Looking forward to being on track again, day 2!

I turn 30 on Thursday and I am looking at this as starting the next decade of my life being heathy and thinner. I spent most of my 20s overweight, my highest being around 250.

Now I am in the 190s, looking forward to the 180s. The lowest I had gotten down to was 182, last November. I felt great at that weight and know I can see the 170s eventually.

This morning, I was planning on getting up early and making breakfast, but that didn't happen. I even got dressed for work, got in my car and while I was driving I realized I was wearing my slippers (it was that kind of morning). So, I went to subway and got a 4inch egg white sub with turkey and avocado (8pp). I will do better at lunch and dinner, for sure!

Hugs to you all.. Happy Tuesday!

:)
Lisa

[girl_dee]

KUDOS to all of you for staying with your goals and working hard! I was doing GREAT during the fall, and lost over 30#, but have put some of it back on. Now, with summer right around the corner, and some trips coming up, it's time to get my ass in gear! I'm starting back on what was working so well, our Amazing Grass smoothies and a pescetarian diet, no more soft drinks, and LOTS of H2O! I got this :)

i did pescetarian for years, and felt great, weight was never a problem. Well i always thought it was but lately realize thats just me.

Now that i have access to fresh beef and venison, i eat it again. TOO much in fact!

Now i need to get moving !

[Zimmeh]

Dinner tonight is baked chicken with a small side of fried rice :)

Zimmeh

[Scorp]

For Dinner I just had:

1 Hewbrew National 97% fat free hot dog and it was so damn good even though it may sound nasty...Nope, very, very good! And guess what?? ONLY 1 POINT!!!

1/2 cup of vegetarian Bush's Baked Beans = 3 points

1 slice of Italian (light bread) (which acted as the hot dog bun) = 2 points

1 can of Polar cranberry-lime seltzer = 0 points

Totaling a 6 point dinner that was filling.. :hangloose:

[foxyshaman]

I had a very wobbly weekend. I was all over the map with stuff to do and not being very 'present'. So, i have no idea what I will weigh this week. I am not too worried, I know I have not gained. I am still working out almost daily. I love that.

In my tracker, I realize, I tend to 'lose it' over the weekends. But, if I did not use my tracker I would not have really paid attention to that. Another clue in the long list of "oh yeah that". The trigger that made me eat like crazy, was faced and is no longer an issue. What a freaking relief that was.

I am very proud of what I have accomplished so far. I went from a size 22 to a size 12 now. My measurements are showing improvements. I wish I would have kept all of my measurements, but when I changed calendars out went the numbers. Wasn't thinking. But, lately the critical voice is slipping in. Like a part of me is not satisfied with all that I have accomplished. It frightens me, to be quite honest. I keep it at bay, but the fact remains, it can come out of nowhere. The Saboteur is rearing her head and making her voice heard. She is such a bitch. And can be so destructive. My left hip and knee are out, even though I went to the chiro last week. But a nerve is being pinched making the outside of my left foot numb. At least I figured out why yesterday... now to try to make time to see my chiro this week.

But, today I feel good. Today is my long Wednesday. Weight lifting, but this time no gay yoga cause I am still in my swimming lessons. That breathing... good gracious... that is all I practice. I am swallowing less water, but I can still panic if I am not in the right rhythm and 'lose my breath'. So, back at it tonite. I tell ya, come Thursdays my thighs ask me if I really want to do Zumba... smiling... of course and then we can relax. Fridays are usually easy, cause its only 1.5 hr yoga. But this weekend is a yoga workshop.... 13 hours worth. But whateva.... its not like I can't do it. :blink: :blink: :blink: :praying:

Thanks for keeping me motivated everyone. Thanks for your inspiring stories.

[Medusa]

I've been meaning to come in here and check in and I keep getting side-tracked. I'm STILL holding at 288 (this counts my 4 pound gain I had a couple of weeks ago) but I am seriously not devoting the kind of time to it that I was.

My plan for the next 10 days:

Re-introduce water at a higher level to my diet - I still drink 4-5 glasses of water a day but I have been drinking a lot more unsweet tea. Need to get the caffeine back down.

Start moving again - Its been WAY too long since I have had a sweaty workout that left my legs wobbly.

Start tracking food again - I havent tracked in 3 weeks and the scales not moving definitely proves I need to.


This thread is positive and amazing and I am thankful to all of you for sharing your stories and serving as an inspiration to people like me!!

[Scorp]

I just have to say that... I LOVE Fuji apples...OMG who knew these were so damn good! I know that sounds crazy, but you have no idea what it takes for me to eat veggies and fruits...

:cheer:

[Medusa]

YES! Fuji's are the bomb diggety and if you like those, you will also like Honeycrisp!

:praying:

[firegal]

Just a check in, ive lost 22 lbs and am 3.5 miles on treadmill, Alternating body parts for free weights. Also setting up the ole weight bench in the office.......now weight room. For when i want an extra set or two after leavin the gym.

My turn to cook at work, fish tacos.... baked cod with raw cabbage and salsa

Yum!

Terry

[JoSchmooze]

I just have to say that... I LOVE Fuji apples...OMG who knew these were so damn good! I know that sounds crazy, but you have no idea what it takes for me to eat veggies and fruits...

:cheer:

YES! Fuji's are the bomb diggety and if you like those, you will also like Honeycrisp!

:praying:

Red delicious.....Jest saying....
Ok so....
226.2, 226.2, 226.2...
Nuttin but 226.2 and I am so wanting
to be down to 225.something for tomorrow....
Somehow I got ADHD with checking pants to see if I could
wear what's in the closet already....
HOLY CRAP!!

I am back down to a 42 waist!
I tried on my tux pants for shits and giggles....
The waist comes up to about my tits!!

Lemme hear a good ole YEEHAW!!

:cigar2:

[JustJo]

Red delicious.....Jest saying....
Ok so....
226.2, 226.2, 226.2...
Nuttin but 226.2 and I am so wanting
to be down to 225.something for tomorrow....
Somehow I got ADHD with checking pants to see if I could
wear what's in the closet already....
HOLY CRAP!!

I am back down to a 42 waist!
I tried on my tux pants for shits and giggles....
The waist comes up to about my tits!!

Lemme hear a good ole YEEHAW!!

:cigar2:

Yeeeeee Hawwwwwww!
That's awesome Jo....and exactly what happened with me.....hang in there and the weight will start moving again.

:cheer:

[ruffryder]

I am in LOVE with Dannon Oikos (fruit on the bottom) Greek "NON-FAT" yogurt.


This is soooooooooooo good!!!! And it's only 3 points for 5.3 oz. It's very filling because it's thick. But wow I was shocked how good it is and now a huge fan.

Flavors: Blueberry and Black Cherry...I didn't see Strawberry but hoping to find it.
:cheer:


Hey everybody! I really really need to get back on track and get back to the gym and walking/running! I been holding steady and need a boost to start the weight loss again. . I think if I pick one day a week to start that is a plus. :/ .. then I can up it to 2 days, then 3..

Yogurt is pretty good stuff and a quick snack or can be breakfast or part of your lunch! I prefer my yogurt creamy and usually stick to the Great Value Wal-mart brand and peach is my flavor. I like to taste the chunks of fruit in there. yum!

I tried this Oikos kind too Scorp. . Strawberry and Peach Mango. Something about peach I keep going back to and love!


Tonight I grabbed a multi grain thin bun, opened it up and added Prego traditional sauce on each piece, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni and hamburger and put them in the toaster oven . It was a a great dinner of personal size pizzas and oddly it was very delish. lol!

One slice of just cheese pizza can be 300 calories but with this option you can decide what you want to put on it. . ie lowfat cheese, homemade fresh sauce, and fresh lean veggies! .. and the bun is just 100 calories for the 2 slices.

The other day on the first day of spring I heard about Vitamin D and how it helps fight stress and moodiness. They were saying on the radio that there is plenty in the sunshine so get outside! It also helps maintain healthy bones and is an immune system regulator. The yogurt I eat has Vitamin D. . Just a thought.. Also, 15 minutes of sunlight a couple times a week will naturally produce adequate amounts of vitamin D your body needs.

[Zimmeh]

That is why im going to start walking every morning! I am going to stay with my Chobani Greek Yogurt. The sandwich rounds are the perfect amount of calories and carbs.

Zimmeh

Hey everybody! I really really need to get back on track and get back to the gym and walking/running! I been holding steady and need a boost to start the weight loss again. . I think if I pick one day a week to start that is a plus. :/ .. then I can up it to 2 days, then 3..

Yogurt is pretty good stuff and a quick snack or can be breakfast or part of your lunch! I prefer my yogurt creamy and usually stick to the Great Value Wal-mart brand and peach is my flavor. I like to taste the chunks of fruit in there. yum!

I tried this Oikos kind too Scorp. . Strawberry and Peach Mango. Something about peach I keep going back to and love!


Tonight I grabbed a multi grain thin bun, opened it up and added Prego traditional sauce on each piece, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni and hamburger and put them in the toaster oven . It was a a great dinner of personal size pizzas and oddly it was very delish. lol!

One slice of just cheese pizza can be 300 calories but with this option you can decide what you want to put on it. . ie lowfat cheese, homemade fresh sauce, and fresh lean veggies! .. and the bun is just 100 calories for the 2 slices.

The other day on the first day of spring I heard about Vitamin D and how it helps fight stress and moodiness. They were saying on the radio that there is plenty in the sunshine so get outside! It also helps maintain healthy bones and is an immune system regulator. The yogurt I eat has Vitamin D. . Just a thought.. Also, 15 minutes of sunlight a couple times a week will naturally produce adequate amounts of vitamin D your body needs.

[Zimmeh]

Woo-f**king-hoo!!!

Zimmeh

Red delicious.....Jest saying....
Ok so....
226.2, 226.2, 226.2...
Nuttin but 226.2 and I am so wanting
to be down to 225.something for tomorrow....
Somehow I got ADHD with checking pants to see if I could
wear what's in the closet already....
HOLY CRAP!!

I am back down to a 42 waist!
I tried on my tux pants for shits and giggles....
The waist comes up to about my tits!!

Lemme hear a good ole YEEHAW!!

:cigar2:

[Medusa]

If there was such a thing as a rice cake that tasted like pumpkin pie, I would SO be indulging right now.

Medusa<----who is fighting a major sugar craving! LOL

[Medusa]

P.s. Does anyone have a recommendation for an AMAZING sports bra? Something that will keep my girls from knocking me in the head every time I try to run?

[Zimmeh]

I suggest looking at Bali Bras. I like their minimizer bras

Have a good night,

Zimmeh

P.s. Does anyone have a recommendation for an AMAZING sports bra? Something that will keep my girls from knocking me in the head every time I try to run?

[justkim]

P.s. Does anyone have a recommendation for an AMAZING sports bra? Something that will keep my girls from knocking me in the head every time I try to run?

Try wearing a regular bra with a sports bra over it... you can even double up on the sports bras, it is about whatever makes you comfy...

[Scorp]

If not, you can always get a helmet.... :p


P.s. Does anyone have a recommendation for an AMAZING sports bra? Something that will keep my girls from knocking me in the head every time I try to run?

[justkim]

If not, you can always get a helmet.... :p


With a face guard?

[Scorp]

How's about this alternative:

Get a rice cake and spoon some canned pumpkin on it. 1 cup of the pumpkin is 0 points! That could reduce your craving, you can then sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on it. And if you want to get a little more out of it, spoon 2 Tablespoons of fat-free cool whip on top of that. Fat free cool whip is also 0 points for 2 Tablespoons.

If there was such a thing as a rice cake that tasted like pumpkin pie, I would SO be indulging right now.

Medusa<----who is fighting a major sugar craving! LOL

[Lady_Di]

P.s. Does anyone have a recommendation for an AMAZING sports bra? Something that will keep my girls from knocking me in the head every time I try to run?

I get these sport bras at WalMart, they come in 3 different strengths. I need a lot of support, or like you... they will knock me in the face.

I wear it even under my bathsuit, as they have been known to float away and go nuts aquatically speaking.

I have tried many of them there. They are cheap, so it allows me to explore. The BestForm is mega strong and keeps the girls happy and in place. But Fruit of the Loom has several that are not too shabby keeping em happy. One is more cottony and not quite as strong with the lycra.

But check out the BestForms, I think they are considered a dancing gear. There is a whole lot to choose from nowadays. Who would have thunk it, Walmart having good dance gear.

***considering I used to spend mega bucks on dancing gear, it is refreshing to find it now available at a more affordable price***


still miss my Capezio's and Danskins, and intend to be back in them here shortly

Now if they have tights that were that full of spandex! Those cost an arm and a leg. Something I don't think that is discussed much is venous stasis, one of the things that can occur from long term obesity. My valves in my lower legs are shot. And it is directly related to weight issues. I am glad to have lost over 150 pounds now, still working on getting as fit as I can be, so I can enjoy growing older gracefully.

Sticking to the water,
Di - the water baby

[deedarino]

How's about this alternative:

Get a rice cake and spoon some canned pumpkin on it. 1 cup of the pumpkin is 0 points! That could reduce your craving, you can then sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on it. And if you want to get a little more out of it, spoon 2 Tablespoons of fat-free cool whip on top of that. Fat free cool whip is also 0 points for 2 Tablespoons.


Truvia for sweetening is amazing! I also add it to plain greek yogurt with fresh fruit. Num...

[DapperButch]

P.s. Does anyone have a recommendation for an AMAZING sports bra? Something that will keep my girls from knocking me in the head every time I try to run?

Definitely check out www.titleninesports.com. They rate their bras by bar bell numbers for support levels. Look at the 3+ barbell options.

They are expensive, but last a long time. Although they sell other things, their sports bras are the backbone of their company (this is the company who used to sell the "Frog Bra" that a lot of butches would wear as it was a "major masher bra"). There are many reviews from sports minded women.

[DapperButch]

Truvia for sweetening is amazing! I also add it to plain greek yogurt with fresh fruit. Num...

Truvia (stevia) is a much healthier choice than the artificial sweetners (sweet and low, splenda, equal, etc) and is a better choice over sugar. I personally like agave nectar, as my sweetner.

[Sparkle]

P.s. Does anyone have a recommendation for an AMAZING sports bra? Something that will keep my girls from knocking me in the head every time I try to run?

I find bare necessities has the best selection in terms of style, support and cup size and usually informative reviews.

http://www.barenecessities.com/search.aspx?search=womens+sports+bras&drv=4294962081&mode=1&msg=Sports+Bras

[JustJo]

Truvia (stevia) is a much healthier choice than the artificial sweetners (sweet and low, splenda, equal, etc) and is a better choice over sugar. I personally like agave nectar, as my sweetner.

I use both stevia and agave nectar, and have found that I prefer the agave....especially in iced tea.

To try to battle my on-going taste for soda, I make sure to keep a pitcher of home-brewed ice tea in the fridge at all times and I sweeten it with just a little agave.

It's delicious...and both much healthier and much cheaper than sodas (plain or diet).

When Snack was here he liked it too....and he's a big "sweet tea" drinker. :)

[justkim]

Good morning!
Just got in from my 5 a.m. small group workout...
I may have to ask my clients to sit on the floor so I can cut their hair...
I am certain here shortly I will NOT be able to lift my arms...
Worked out tri's and chest...
It was such a great workout that I wanted to throw up... :blink:

As far as the leg workout earlier in the week... well lets just say I really didn't want to move... but I did... I live on the second floor and I have two little dogs who need to go out... so NOT moving was not an option...

My weekend has come to an end and I head back to work today...
Have a fantastic day everyone!
Make the best of it and remember to be kind to yourself...

[JoSchmooze]

I crept up on the scale this morning...
sucking in my breath, I approached
with trepidation.....
Today, I mumbled to myself...just let me
have today be a 225 day.....

MWUAHHHHHAAAHAHAHHAHA....

225.8!!

Now perhaps I can have one bite of a birthday cake!!

:cigar2:

[JustJo]

I crept up on the scale this morning...
sucking in my breath, I approached
with trepidation.....
Today, I mumbled to myself...just let me
have today be a 225 day.....

MWUAHHHHHAAAHAHAHHAHA....

225.8!!

Now perhaps I can have one bite of a birthday cake!!

:cigar2:




I think that calls for this....

:cheer: :cheerleader: :thumbsup: :clap: :cheer: :cheerleader: :thumbsup: :clap:


:bday:

:clap: :cheer: :thumbsup: :cheerleader: :cheer: :cheerleader: :thumbsup: :clap:

[foxyshaman]

It is official :hamactor: I am now the lightest I have been in 15 years!!! :shocking: Cutting out dinner carbs did the trick and got me off the plateau and plummeting another 4 pounds. :cheerleader: :clap:

I am way fucking happy. :happyjump:

Like way. :giggle:

I am officially shopping for a new dress for the womonspace dance :blueheels:. I think I am going to go for a new look... like steam punk. And why not... right now I feel as sexy as all get out. :goodscore:

[Rockinonahigh]

Yesterday I had a doctors appointment with my doc about my back and what to do about it,my options were surgery or to give pain managaement a try first,im doing pain managaement then hopeing I can get back to a more normal ablity to be mobile with out stifness and pain.I have no clue as to what or when it will start but its best be asap so I can get a move on it.The surgery option is like a barbaric whack job that will leave me unable to bend over cause of the rods and screws and such,my comment was hell no in capitial letters cause with the advance ment of surgery options avalable with new ways of doing things I will look for a better way first.Also they say I have a brusitis pocket in my left shoulder and left hip plus degenertive disk in my back and neck.Now I knew all this a long time ago plus its in my med records and they know it.Frankly im really put out over the lack of the docs getting on the ball with what can be done or not done about it except throw drugs at it,I told them I wasnt going to let them turn me into a paid drug addict just for them to take a short cut at my expense any longer.I really do hope pain management works cause surgery is an option I really dont want to take.
On the other hand they are pleased with my weight loss even tho I have regained a fue as well as my blood sugar being better than it had in a while.Trade off's the god ,bad and the ugly of it all.

[DapperButch]

I use both stevia and agave nectar, and have found that I prefer the agave....especially in iced tea.

To try to battle my on-going taste for soda, I make sure to keep a pitcher of home-brewed ice tea in the fridge at all times and I sweeten it with just a little agave.

It's delicious...and both much healthier and much cheaper than sodas (plain or diet).

When Snack was here he liked it too....and he's a big "sweet tea" drinker. :)

Same here, Jo. In fact, that is exactly what I am drinking right now! I use green tea specifically for the anti-oxidant effects.

I am not too keen on stevia. I only highlighted the truvia (stevia) b/c I know that people like the ease of packets. If I had to have an artificial sweetner (which I don't use anymore), I would actually choose Splenda when it comes to taste.

[Cowboi]

Worked out with my trainer this afternoon. I think we finally had a connection....Had a great workout.
Now to get back on track! I have been on a feeding frenzy for 2 weeks, gained about 4 lbs. This too shall pass....
Looks like y'all have been doing great!!!
Keep up the good work!!

[Gemme]

How's about this alternative:

Get a rice cake and spoon some canned pumpkin on it. 1 cup of the pumpkin is 0 points! That could reduce your craving, you can then sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on it. And if you want to get a little more out of it, spoon 2 Tablespoons of fat-free cool whip on top of that. Fat free cool whip is also 0 points for 2 Tablespoons.

Canned pumpkin does not taste like most think it tastes.

:blink:

Other than that, that's a nifty idea.

[sylvie]

good morning Healthies..
Back in Saint John (ho hum).. But, counting down to August, 138 days!
But, i am staying as positive as i can with the distance and throwing myself back into my workouts.. i stayed on track eatingwise in Oregon, and exercised when i could -- happy girl here for that. Feels good to come back with no guilt!

So - eating breakfast now:

1 shredded wheat
1/2 c skim milk
a small banana chopped into it..

Then, i will walk to the gym (30 mins)
and once there, i will:

do the weight machines
treadmill (1 min run, 1 min walk) = 30 mins
elliptical, 20-30 mins

Then i have to go grocery shopping, before i come home..
i also need to make an appointment today to see my Dietician next week , so i can continue the Intuitive Eating program and get weighed in!

Last weigh in was 91 lbs lost since April.

JoSchmooze - i tried bringing food through at the airport and they let me! As long as it was snacks and fruit they were fine with it, just no liquids.. Thanks so much for mentionning it, i truly thought food was included, LOL.. Made my travelling day much more pleasant as far as staying on track.

((huggs to all))

[Ginger]

You know I started a thread that I now think was unnecessary, having found this one. It's for people looking for lose no more than 20 pounds. I was hoping to find support for that goal, from other people looking to lose the same amount, but maybe I can find that—and give that!—here.

So, is anyone interested in being my 20-pound weight loss buddy?

Thanks,

IslandScout

[Zimmeh]

I saw this on The Chew today. It is a healthy snack for the summer and I wanted to pss it on..

Enjoy!

Zimmeh

Daphne Oz's Frozen Key Lime Pie Pops


skill level
Easy

time
60-120min

servings
8

cost
$


Contributed by: Daphne Oz
This fantastic pie is tasty and fun! Whip up a batch and serve them at your next party. ..


ingredients
1 cup Crushed Graham Crackers (separated)
1/3 cup Key Lime Juice
Zest of 3 Key Limes
3 cup Greek Yogurt
1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
3 tablespoon Honey


kitchenware

• Hand Mixer
• Liquid Measuring Cup
• Measuring Cup (set)
• Measuring Spoons

[JoSchmooze]

JoSchmooze - i tried bringing food through at the airport and they let me! As long as it was snacks and fruit they were fine with it, just no liquids.. Thanks so much for mentionning it, i truly thought food was included, LOL.. Made my travelling day much more pleasant as far as staying on track.

((huggs to all))

Sylvie, glad to know that I was not misleading
you. I have always taken nuts, trail mix or
other snacks in my backpack. I just cannot spend
the outrageous prices in the airport!

Today is the day after my birthday and I am
just now getting to work!!
Thank goodness my client knows I am remote and sometimes
I keep crazy hours!
A couple of my friends "kidnapped" me, took me
over to one of their homes and gave me a
"diet friendly" barbeque! Neither of them could
believe that I cut my steak in half and only ate
about a 6 - 7 oz portion!
But I am grateful for those friends who are supporting
my efforts to get healthy and lose this extra weight!

Keep on trucking, y'all!

:cigar2:

[sylvie]

Welcome IslandScout!
Whether 10, 20 or 100 lbs, or heck even just about healthy eating.. There's tons of support here, we're happy you joined us!
i've had a ton of support from this thread since it started and there is so much motivation and tips , i love it!

(((huggz)))

[sylvie]

Morning all, ♥

Had a great day at the Gym yesterday..
Last night, i went in my closet and grabbed the new scrub shirts i had that have never been able to fit & guess what, THEY FIT !!!

i may or may not have danced around in them last night, & even wore it to work this morning, with a shirt underneath.. i'm excited.. seriously.. Can't wait for weigh in, even if i didn't lose lbs, i'm guessing that i'm losing inches.. i really need to be better about measuring myself, it would be motivating for sure..Mr Mtn said He's been noticing changes in my body, especially when i was there and the way my clothes fit. So YAY!

Today i am working a split shift, morning & evening so.. home from my morning shift now, and getting changed and going to jog.. Going to jog as much as i can with some walking breaks, i'm excited to try this.. When i go to the Gym, i do one min walking and one min running, and alter between the two for 30 mins.. It's very different when outside compared to a treadmill, and i've run a lil outside but usually very shy to so when i see people i'll stop..

But today, i feel this weird confidence now that i've been training to run, and so i'm doing it, and love pushing myself.. Feels great and now that i have the gear especially (sneakers, sports bras, and comfy running clothes) i'm soooo on this... So, off i go!! But not just with running & exercise, this confidence i am building in so many areas of my life, feels incredible. i'll elaborate more soon as i can.

Have a fabulously terrific kinda healthy & energetic sorta day everyone!
hehehe..

xo

[Ginger]

Welcome IslandScout!
Whether 10, 20 or 100 lbs, or heck even just about healthy eating.. There's tons of support here, we're happy you joined us!
i've had a ton of support from this thread since it started and there is so much motivation and tips , i love it!

(((huggz)))

Thanks, Sylvie, that means a lot. I've been scanning down through this thread, and people do seem to have a lot of good tips for each other.

Yesterday I ate:

Breakfast: Lara bar

Lunch: brown rice sushi with avocado and fake crabmeat, power drink like muscle milk but not a milk product

Dinner: Chipotle, the "bowl," no meat, avocado, beans, rice, tomato, peppers

Dessert: non-fat yogurt, about 8 ounces, with a few berries on top and some chocolate sprinkles

I felt bloated and had a stomach ache when I went to bed. I just got up and I'm having a cup of coffee and a banana.

Pretty bad, right? No wonder I can't get the weight under control.

:(

IslandScout

[Ginger]

I saw this on The Chew today. It is a healthy snack for the summer and I wanted to pss it on..

Enjoy!

Zimmeh

Daphne Oz's Frozen Key Lime Pie Pops


skill level
Easy

time
60-120min

servings
8

cost
$


Contributed by: Daphne Oz
This fantastic pie is tasty and fun! Whip up a batch and serve them at your next party. ..


ingredients
1 cup Crushed Graham Crackers (separated)
1/3 cup Key Lime Juice
Zest of 3 Key Limes
3 cup Greek Yogurt
1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
3 tablespoon Honey


kitchenware

• Hand Mixer
• Liquid Measuring Cup
• Measuring Cup (set)
• Measuring Spoons

Sounds delicious. I might skip the graham crackers and use non-fat yogurt. Thanks for posting the recipe!

[firegal]

Havent weighed self for awhile. Gotta get on it! Still goin to gym regular 3-4 miles on treadmill.

The challenge will be going to wash DC this weedend for 6 days and eating hotel food and trying to be calorie concious.

They have a gym....hope the hilton has a good one.


Terry

[Scorp]

Woo hoo...Just weighed in and lost 2.2 lbs this week!!!

Total loss so far: 9.6 lbs! :clap:

:cheer:

[Zimmeh]

Congrats!!!

Zimmeh

Woo hoo...Just weighed in and lost 2.2 lbs this week!!!

Total loss so far: 9.6 lbs! :clap:

:cheer:

[Cowboi]

Had a great workout this morning!!!! Lee kicked my arse!
Gonna hang with some friends this afternoon. It is a beautiful day here in north Louisiana!!
I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend!!!!

[Zimmeh]

This what I have had today:

Breakfast:
Chobani black cherry yogurt
Grande skinny vanilla latte

Lunch: peanut butter sandwich

Dinner: chorizo and eggs

Snacks: fruit!

I have my sneakers, iPhone earbuds and a 30 minute break to walk around this gorgeous hotel.

Zimmeh

[Zimmeh]

Hey Medusa,

I was reading the new Marie Claire magazine at work tonight and there was an article written by a plus size women. She works for them and was recommending work out clothes. She loved the sports bras from Lane Bryant. The name of the line is: Marika Miracles at Cacique. I am thinking of going to the store this week to see what I can find. I may even hit their website tonight :)
Hope this helps!

Zimmeh

P.s. Does anyone have a recommendation for an AMAZING sports bra? Something that will keep my girls from knocking me in the head every time I try to run?

[Leigh]

Hey everyone,

Well its time to get serious and start working out again! I've lost so much time due to illness and issues due to payment troubles with the gym I'm a member at that I've completely lost everything that I was doing before. My positive eating habits, my 3x a week at the gym, it all got tossed aside because I just couldn't do anything with first bronchitis and then a viral infection. Well those things are gone but then I began to have problems with my payments ~ they were being taken out when they shouldn't have been, I got charged 3 separate NSF fees and even after changing bi weekly payments to monthly payments, I was still getting money taken out of my account that never should have been.

I'm sure that I've gotten this all straightened out but my mom was very angry with the gym and how they've been screwing me around for money (rightfully so) but she got involved in the conversation I was trying to have with one of their member reps about fixing the issues and it got blown out of proportion. Now I love my mom to death but she's basically told me to close my bank account and close my gym membership immediately without giving me a chance to make my own decision. I don't want to close my account nor do I want to lose my gym membership; everything seems to have been fixed and what I want more than anything is to get back to the gym but I don't know how to tell her that I want to keep going there.

I love her dearly and I truly value her opinion but I just feel like this time I have to make my own decision, and I don't want to lose my gym membership. I want to continue working out, try a few classes and finally lose this weight ~ I wouldn't be able to just do it on my own and I know that this is the right decision for me. Hopefully it'll go smoothly and she will see my point of view, if not then I have to stand my ground and begin making my own life decisions otherwise I won't get to live the life that I want to live :)

[Cowboi]

Alllllrighty then.... Got my cardio on this morning. I am ready for my day!!! Will be going to friends today for a big sunday dinner!!!
Gonna have some of MJ's famous enchiladas!!!!

[sylvie]

Good Morning everyone -
Getting ready to head out for my jog again..
Honestly, i feel tired and didn't want to, but noticed it's going to rain out later & the sun is shining now, and i know if i don't do it now, i won't later since i go back to work...

self motivation isn't always easy, arghhh.. lol.

i felt fantastic for doing it yesterday.. i ran some, would walk some, would run some, etc.. stopped to breathe a few times, but it's an hour and 20 min walk, usually.. And i ran over half of that lake, so proud girl here..

Training to run is much harder than i thought it would be honestly.. So much more to it than i realized.. But, i am determined and SOOO want to run a marathon one day!

So i am ON it..
Tomorrow, i have a date with the gym with a friend of mine.. We're doing Body Combat class (kicks, punches and great workout, heh..) and then i'll do my 30 min run/walk on the treadmill.. Probably get some weights in there too since i'm there..

Yesterday, i had some issues eatingwise.. While i ate super healthy and portions were very controlled (proud of that!) i ended up being hungry and eating my dinner far too early, which left me hungry once i was home from work last night.. i am trying to get away from eating at 8pm (my dinner that is) because i work til 7pm.. So trying to adjust my mealtimes, somewhat.. It's a little frustrating when i don't work the same hours everyday.. i do, generally, work til 7pm however..

So today, i am going to try a 2nd healthy snack later in the afternoon, and then eat supper on my 10 min break.. i'll just have to be certain i prepare meals that are easy to get ready and eat within that 10 min time frame, or just settle with the fact i'll have to eat once i get home at night.. It's what i have been doing, i just know it's not good to eat that late, and now that it's a bit more challenging to lose the weight i have to get stricter with myself...

Anyway, will try that today and see how it goes.. If it works, then it's time to research some easy healthy meals recipes..

Have a fantastic day all!

[JoSchmooze]

I'm with Sylvie there....
I do not want to go out there and do the
stationary bike today.
I did the gym yesterday and my upper body is sore
because it was time to up the weights on some
of the machines......
But I'll do it because I need to....
And I know I'll feel betterr aftter I do!

:cowboy:

[Ginger]

Welcome IslandScout!
Whether 10, 20 or 100 lbs, or heck even just about healthy eating.. There's tons of support here, we're happy you joined us!
i've had a ton of support from this thread since it started and there is so much motivation and tips , i love it!

(((huggz)))



Thanks, Sylvie. That felt nice.

[Ginger]

...

Yesterday, i had some issues eatingwise.. While i ate super healthy and portions were very controlled (proud of that!) i ended up being hungry and eating my dinner far too early, which left me hungry once i was home from work last night.. i am trying to get away from eating at 8pm (my dinner that is) because i work til 7pm.. So trying to adjust my mealtimes, somewhat.. It's a little frustrating when i don't work the same hours everyday.. i do, generally, work til 7pm however..

So today, i am going to try a 2nd healthy snack later in the afternoon, and then eat supper on my 10 min break.. i'll just have to be certain i prepare meals that are easy to get ready and eat within that 10 min time frame, or just settle with the fact i'll have to eat once i get home at night..


Dealing with schedules is tricky. It sounds like you have a good strategy in mind, with the additional healthy snacks. I get up at 6:15 and eat a banana, then when I get to work at 9, I eat a power bar with my coffee. I eat lunch around 12:30 or later if I can hold out. At 3, my cravings are through the roof. I take an apple to work with me and eat it at that time. Or, I eat a packet of instant oatmeal.

What really helps is drinking Mate tea in the afternoon. It's a natural appetite suppressant, and it doesn't make me jittery or too zippy, like with coffee. I'm out of Mate, but this reminds me, I could go by the health food store on my lunch hour tomorrow and get some.

Good luck!
IslandScout

[JustJo]

Good morning healthies :)

Well my scale did not cooperate today...still sitting at 200 even. I'm not letting it get me down though, because I'm still feeling and seeing differences.

I recently had to toss a bathing suit because the bottoms were too baggy...and this may be TMI...but just realized I'm having the same problem with my underwear. :blink: In the interests of "no droopy drawers" I may go treat myself to some cute new ones. :)

This morning at Curves I was doing my stretches after the workout when a very sweet old lady tapped me on the arm, smiled at me, and said "I see you losing weight young lady. You're looking lovely these days."

Made my day. :cheesy:

[deedarino]

Good morning healthies :)

Well my scale did not cooperate today...still sitting at 200 even. I'm not letting it get me down though, because I'm still feeling and seeing differences.

I recently had to toss a bathing suit because the bottoms were too baggy...and this may be TMI...but just realized I'm having the same problem with my underwear. :blink: In the interests of "no droopy drawers" I may go treat myself to some cute new ones. :)

This morning at Curves I was doing my stretches after the workout when a very sweet old lady tapped me on the arm, smiled at me, and said "I see you losing weight young lady. You're looking lovely these days."

Made my day. :cheesy:


There are sometimes when droopy drawers are just beautiful :-) Awesome!

[sylvie]

Good Morning Healthies.. ♥

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JO!
:birthdaycake:

LOVED your post and so proud of you..i soo hear you on the undies, i am having the same problem, especially this week.. So, going to treat myself to some lingerie shopping before long too.. ♥ Congratulations to you, i love hearing your progress (as well as everyone else's..) and it reminds me to not focus on the weight, and am going to make it a point to get measurements done for my appointment with the Dietician which is also when i get weighed.. so thank you!

So today, i have a Gym date with a friend i made *at* the gym some weeks ago, we have the same goals and have been on the same type of journey and so we are good motivation for one another.. & she loves the classes there, as do i.. i have another friend i go with sometimes (the runner who is helping with my train to run program) and she hates the classes.. so it's nice being able to go with both because my gym dates are so different .. i usually do go to the gym or workout alone, however because it was important that i was not depending on going with others.. Just nice to have the company sometimes!

So, Body Combat class for me tonight at 530! Lots of punches, & kicks.. Frustrations go bye bye, heh.. Then ill do some weights and treadmill.

i'm excited, i sooo love this class.. i usually do Zumba afterwards but decided i'd rather do some gym equipment instead, the zumba class doesn't do alot for me exercisewise.. It *is* fun though, but it's very low impact compared to some zumba classes others talk about elsewhere (which i'd love to try one day).. Just the ones at the gym aren't working for me so great..

ANYway, have a great day all ♥

[Thinker]

This morning at Curves I was doing my stretches after the workout when a very sweet old lady tapped me on the arm, smiled at me, and said "I see you losing weight young lady. You're looking lovely these days."

Made my day. :cheesy:

That's wonderful!!! That would've made my day too!

Keep up the good work, Jo!

[JoSchmooze]

Back home after sweating it out at
the gym.
I hear ya Jo, but for the butch in me, it's the damned
shorts that are now way too big in the seat!

I was at the Moose yesterday playing
shuffleboard - and I had more than one person
tell me that I needed to go shopping for new shorts!
I may have one more pair that aren't as bad as the cargo shorts
I had on yesterday...

Everyone keep up the great work!

:cowboy:

[Thinker]

I'm doing the "lots of good stuff for you every 2-3 hours" thing and feeling much better as a result. And water. Water, water, everywhere...

I decided not to track weight or measurements, so I can't speak to any changes in those departments. I just wanna *feel* good. I know when that starts happening then other favorable changes are happening too. :D

Hugs and love from me to you...

[Ginger]

Today went okay. I had my power bar with coffee for breakfast, then pasta and tomato sauce and non-fat yogurt for lunch, then a banana for a snack at about three.

I made sure to get home early because my partner was held up, and I made dinner for the kid. I nuked some frozen chicken nuggets from Trader Joe with pasta (the same batch I took lunch from), with parmesan cheese, and half a zucchini, sauteed in fake butter. He thought it was a very elegant dinner, LOL.

As I was cooking and he was doing homework, I took him a bowel of doritos, and had a few myself. Then for dinner (I let him eat in front of the TV; Gator Wars), I had the same pasta but with the zucchini stirred in, and no chicken nuggets. Then I got him a bowel of ice cream for dessert and only snuck one bite for myself.

Then my partner came home and was annoyed the pasta was all gone, LOL though our refrigerator is bursting with food. She had leftover Chinese food from last night and then a piece of raisin toast that smelled so good, I asked her to make me one, too, and she did, even though that annoyed her too, LOL.

So it could have been worse. I only had a few chips, I didn't go crazy with the ice cream, and I only had the one piece of toast. I am planning to have a glass of wine and watch the new episode of Eastbound and Down, as soon as the kid goes to bed and I have the TV room to myself, which will be in about half an hour.

I didn't make it to the gym.

[Zimmeh]

Congrats!!!


Zimmeh


Good morning healthies :)

Well my scale did not cooperate today...still sitting at 200 even. I'm not letting it get me down though, because I'm still feeling and seeing differences.

I recently had to toss a bathing suit because the bottoms were too baggy...and this may be TMI...but just realized I'm having the same problem with my underwear. :blink: In the interests of "no droopy drawers" I may go treat myself to some cute new ones. :)

This morning at Curves I was doing my stretches after the workout when a very sweet old lady tapped me on the arm, smiled at me, and said "I see you losing weight young lady. You're looking lovely these days."

Made my day. :cheesy:

[Medusa]

I need to do this in list form because that feels best to me right now.

Warning: This will be an overshare. :)


**Don't read #1 if you are triggered by negative talk**
1. I have cut way back on posting in here in the last several weeks because of several things, many of which are I'm not doing anything significant and also that I don't have anything new to add. Ho hum, y'all, and the scales show it! Holding steady! The other reason, which is actually a biggie for me, is because it doesn't always feel safe to me to expose my struggles when I know that the Wicked Witch of the West is out there in cyberland watching.
Well, I decided today that I'm not really going to let that shit keep me from this space any longer because the people here are amazing and positive and this journey isn't about being "safe" but rather being "real" and the "real" for me today is that I've never shrunk from nasty people and I'm not going to start now.
/assy.

2. I hit the gym tonight with The Princess and we worked our asses off for 45 minutes. I did a circuit of 15-minutes each with treadmill, bike, and elliptical and it was warm in the gym so I was sweating my ASS off. I hope that is literal!

3. Progresso Light Santa Fe Chicken Veggie soup is amazing! Only 120 calories for the entire can (but I only ate like 2/3). Very filling and spiced well. Yes, more sodium than I would like but a nice alternative to a sandwich and definitely less calories!

4. I set another mini-goal and a longer-term goal. I now write it on my calendar at work so that I don't forget. People at work are kinda agog that I readily expose my weight and goals but I have found that it is motivating the entire group to get on track. We have workout dates 3 nights a week now and are all helping each other stay on track with lunch choices.

5. I have been thinking again about what "healthy" means. I think for a lot of us it's not just about the body but also about the mind and spirit. Have definitely been spending more time with quality friends and focusing on things that make me feel spiritually balanced. This means that my yard and garden are looking great and I feel wrapped in love because I have a LOT of girlfriends who are amazing and special and loving and better than most anything I know.

6. Garden! YES! As in, raised bed! Jack and I built the first of our raised beds this weekend which required several hours of clearing in the back yard. We live on 3 acres and the back part of our land is like a wooly park so we've been digging out rocks and cutting out brush. Hard work and sweaty but I feel really good about it. The fresh veggies are going to be a GREAT bonus! We are doing garlic, onions, jalapenos, tomatoes, green peppers, squash, zucchini, lettuce, red potatoes and cantaloupes.
I am also going to do carrots in buckets and going to start some asparagus plants ( I know they take a while!). Also planning on putting in an herb garden for fresh basil, oregano, parsley, and whatever else strikes my fancy.
These are all things I will eat in large quantities. :)


Sorry for the listy-loo but it makes me feel better about not having to put pretty transitions between paragraphs! LOL!

[cara]

So, I've been doing a lot more walking lately. And two weekends ago I went snowshoeing for the very first time (ow!). So far, it's been good and my blood sugar levels are getting better (I'm diabetic). My knee is hurting right now but I think it's because I just increased my exercise level over the last few weeks. I'm going snowshoeing again on Saturday because it's fun! (and I'm crazy!)

The one thing I'm having a hard time with (and what I believe is ultimately, holding me back from losing weight) is the food thing. Mainly because 1) I hardly ever have groceries in my apartment, 2) I hardly ever cook at home, and 3) I'm LAZY when it comes to food. Granted, I eat healthier now than I used to. I can't remember the last time I had fast food! But I don't make the wisest choices when I'm at lunch for work or on my way home. My biggest vice lately? Chewy, sugar-coated candy like those orange slices or Peachie-Os. Which are like the WORST thing for me as a diabetic! Anyway, I have a whole list of Really Good Reasons why it's virtually impossible to eat well. But really? They're just excuses. (Some valid. Some not.)

So...I'm going to start taking baby steps (again) and work on making better food choices. That means no more stops at 7-11 on the walk home from the bus stop. And less sugary snacks. I'm not going to completely omit them from my diet at this point, but maybe once a week instead of every day. (Sooo embarrassing to admit!)

Wish me luck! :)

[deedarino]

I need to do this in list form because that feels best to me right now.

Warning: This will be an overshare. :)


**Don't read #1 if you are triggered by negative talk**
1. I have cut way back on posting in here in the last several weeks because of several things, many of which are I'm not doing anything significant and also that I don't have anything new to add. Ho hum, y'all, and the scales show it! Holding steady! The other reason, which is actually a biggie for me, is because it doesn't always feel safe to me to expose my struggles when I know that the Wicked Witch of the West is out there in cyberland watching.
Well, I decided today that I'm not really going to let that shit keep me from this space any longer because the people here are amazing and positive and this journey isn't about being "safe" but rather being "real" and the "real" for me today is that I've never shrunk from nasty people and I'm not going to start now.
/assy.

2. I hit the gym tonight with The Princess and we worked our asses off for 45 minutes. I did a circuit of 15-minutes each with treadmill, bike, and elliptical and it was warm in the gym so I was sweating my ASS off. I hope that is literal!

3. Progresso Light Santa Fe Chicken Veggie soup is amazing! Only 120 calories for the entire can (but I only ate like 2/3). Very filling and spiced well. Yes, more sodium than I would like but a nice alternative to a sandwich and definitely less calories!

4. I set another mini-goal and a longer-term goal. I now write it on my calendar at work so that I don't forget. People at work are kinda agog that I readily expose my weight and goals but I have found that it is motivating the entire group to get on track. We have workout dates 3 nights a week now and are all helping each other stay on track with lunch choices.

5. I have been thinking again about what "healthy" means. I think for a lot of us it's not just about the body but also about the mind and spirit. Have definitely been spending more time with quality friends and focusing on things that make me feel spiritually balanced. This means that my yard and garden are looking great and I feel wrapped in love because I have a LOT of girlfriends who are amazing and special and loving and better than most anything I know.

6. Garden! YES! As in, raised bed! Jack and I built the first of our raised beds this weekend which required several hours of clearing in the back yard. We live on 3 acres and the back part of our land is like a wooly park so we've been digging out rocks and cutting out brush. Hard work and sweaty but I feel really good about it. The fresh veggies are going to be a GREAT bonus! We are doing garlic, onions, jalapenos, tomatoes, green peppers, squash, zucchini, lettuce, red potatoes and cantaloupes.
I am also going to do carrots in buckets and going to start some asparagus plants ( I know they take a while!). Also planning on putting in an herb garden for fresh basil, oregano, parsley, and whatever else strikes my fancy.
These are all things I will eat in large quantities. :)


Sorry for the listy-loo but it makes me feel better about not having to put pretty transitions between paragraphs! LOL!

What I meant to say was...BRAVO!

[TexasCowboi]

I've gone back to the gym after a one month absence due to illness.... cardio is not as bad as I thought it would be.... but I still have a lot of work to do before I am anywhere near ready for my next 5k race....

Most of what I"ve done is change my diet, to include a lot more water....and less Sonic! LOL..... so far its resulted in a 16lb loss.....

[JustJo]

Good morning healthies :)

So good to see Medusa back, and Cara in here...and welcome TexasCowboi. :rrose:

Isn't it amazing how, when we are real and open and working to improve ourselves, that there always seems to be some negative someone who wants to try to criticize or tear us down? Bravo to you Medusa for saying screw it, and doing what you need and want to do for yourself.

And Cara....high five to the diabetics who are working on eating healthier. I am right there with you my friend. It always seems fundamentally unfair to me that the "rest of the world" (as I like to put it when I'm cranky and wallowing) gets to eat candy and drink soda, and I can't without seriously endangering my health....but there it is.

I actually did well yesterday and did not indulge in any cake or ice cream or anything like that. I did allow myself a Diet Coke. Instead, my birthday splurge was dinner from Outback....filet mignon, baked potato (and yes, I had the butter and sour cream cuz it was my birthday dammit!), and steamed mixed veggies. It was delicious, and still felt like a birthday treat. :)

My biggest challenge is when I'm stressed. My evening yesterday was rough...a long conversation with mom who was melting down, crying, angry, and basically having one of those days when she simply couldn't cope with a terminal illness. All I can do is be there for her, but it makes me want to reach for all the crap I generally used to use to soothe this stuff. Instead, I hugged my son, talked to my sweetheart, and petted the cat. It's all progress my friends....even if it doesn't look like it to others.

Hugs to you all. :gimmehug:

[Zimmeh]

Good Morning Everyone,

I woke up at 7:30a this morning and hit the sidewalk..I went power walking for an hour and a half while listening to BPM on Sirius radio...

I am in the process of giving up coffee again and I downloaded the LoseIt app for my iPhone again...I love it..

Breakfast:

Chobani black cherry yogurt
6oz glass of SoyMilk

Lunch/Dinner:

Baked chicken with Kraft Taste Creations sprinkled on top
Small cup of Mac & Cheese
Small salad

Snacks:

Fruit cup
Special K Granola Bars

[Zimmeh]

Good Luck and if you have to eat out, go pick up a sub from Meyer's. Since I work two nights on 3rd shift, I keep fruit cups and granola bars in my desk.

You can do this!

Zimmeh

So, I've been doing a lot more walking lately. And two weekends ago I went snowshoeing for the very first time (ow!). So far, it's been good and my blood sugar levels are getting better (I'm diabetic). My knee is hurting right now but I think it's because I just increased my exercise level over the last few weeks. I'm going snowshoeing again on Saturday because it's fun! (and I'm crazy!)

The one thing I'm having a hard time with (and what I believe is ultimately, holding me back from losing weight) is the food thing. Mainly because 1) I hardly ever have groceries in my apartment, 2) I hardly ever cook at home, and 3) I'm LAZY when it comes to food. Granted, I eat healthier now than I used to. I can't remember the last time I had fast food! But I don't make the wisest choices when I'm at lunch for work or on my way home. My biggest vice lately? Chewy, sugar-coated candy like those orange slices or Peachie-Os. Which are like the WORST thing for me as a diabetic! Anyway, I have a whole list of Really Good Reasons why it's virtually impossible to eat well. But really? They're just excuses. (Some valid. Some not.)

So...I'm going to start taking baby steps (again) and work on making better food choices. That means no more stops at 7-11 on the walk home from the bus stop. And less sugary snacks. I'm not going to completely omit them from my diet at this point, but maybe once a week instead of every day. (Sooo embarrassing to admit!)

Wish me luck! :)

[Zimmeh]

Congrats Jo and treating yourself on your birthday is well worth it...Yesterday was also very hard on me, and I used to find the nearest bag of chocolate and eat it when I would have a bad day...I didn't do that yesterday. When I felt *down*, I grabbed a granola bar or some chocolate Teddy Grahams and after I ate my turkey sandwich, I went for a ten minute walk/climbing two flights of stairs.

Hugs,

Zimmeh

Good morning healthies :)

So good to see Medusa back, and Cara in here...and welcome TexasCowboi. :rrose:

Isn't it amazing how, when we are real and open and working to improve ourselves, that there always seems to be some negative someone who wants to try to criticize or tear us down? Bravo to you Medusa for saying screw it, and doing what you need and want to do for yourself.

And Cara....high five to the diabetics who are working on eating healthier. I am right there with you my friend. It always seems fundamentally unfair to me that the "rest of the world" (as I like to put it when I'm cranky and wallowing) gets to eat candy and drink soda, and I can't without seriously endangering my health....but there it is.

I actually did well yesterday and did not indulge in any cake or ice cream or anything like that. I did allow myself a Diet Coke. Instead, my birthday splurge was dinner from Outback....filet mignon, baked potato (and yes, I had the butter and sour cream cuz it was my birthday dammit!), and steamed mixed veggies. It was delicious, and still felt like a birthday treat. :)

My biggest challenge is when I'm stressed. My evening yesterday was rough...a long conversation with mom who was melting down, crying, angry, and basically having one of those days when she simply couldn't cope with a terminal illness. All I can do is be there for her, but it makes me want to reach for all the crap I generally used to use to soothe this stuff. Instead, I hugged my son, talked to my sweetheart, and petted the cat. It's all progress my friends....even if it doesn't look like it to others.

Hugs to you all. :gimmehug:

[justkim]

Good morning!
Tonight I will be loading the we one into her stroller and taking a long walk... I have missed my walks...
Now that the time change has given us a little more daylight for walking in the evening I should have no problem getting out...
Be back later to share my confession...

Keep up all of the great work everyone!

[JoSchmooze]

My confession for this week is actually from last week - my birthday! Even though friends threw me a diet conscious barbeque, I blew it later in the evening. After eating, three of us headed out to have a couple drinks. When I got home, I spied those tortilla chips, grabbed them and settled into the recliner to stuff my face - rationalizing that it was my birthday, I should be allowed!

So that precious 225.8 went right down the tubes - right back to 226.4. Friday morning, even before making coffee I went right back to the tortilla chips and tossed them in the trash.....Feeling like Edgar Allan Poe, I kept saying "Nevermore, nevermore" to myself....

Back in the saddle on Friday and the rest of the weekend, both in exercise and food choices. I finally found a way to eat broccoli without being totally grossed out! This morning I was greeted with a lovely 225.0!

I know that this sounds like I am obsessed with ounces and pounds instead of my health. But for me at this minute, weight loss = another step to a healthy and longer life.

Keep on trucking y'all.....doing it however it feels "right" to you....
There is no "magic pill", no shortcuts or ways to cheat and still live healthy....It takes hard work, good food choices and the desire to be healthier today than you were yesterday! Keep up the good work!


:cowboy:

[ruffryder]

hello healthies!

it's back to the gym this week for me. . also doing my ab app workout.

breakfast was raisin bran crunch, half a banana, with fat free milk = 280 calories. 2 cups black coffee.

lunch was chicken breast topped with bread crumb and cheese topping, mac and cheese. a can of pepsi max. leftovers for dinner. calories = 700. hmmmm.. seems like a lot but it is pasta and i need it early in the day? for lunch and dinner is 350 calories each..

snack. other half of banana. a tangelo. plenty of iced unsweet tea. = 110 calories

have a great week everybody!

[foxyshaman]

I do not know how many points I earned this weekend with my workshop. But oh my god, when I got into my car on Sunday afternoon I could NOT lift my arms onto the steering wheel. The night before, seriously, I had to lift my legs when I wanted to move them. Yeah 13 hours of Yoga???:praying:

Zumba last night was a great sweat. And then swimming. Today... my wee legs are tired. I do not know if I will go to circuit training or not. He is my least favorite instructor, but I do like the cardio and weight exercises. But, I may just go home and clean my house. I have an urge to purge. Does that burn calories?? :canadian:

Today I am having Sushi for lunch. I love that stuff. Then tonite it will be a raw meal because of the carb count on the rice this afternoon.

I won't know if I am going to class until 4:40. I figure I will just torture myself... go you lazy ass... but I am a tired ass... too bad just go... but... I am sure I am not the only one who has this conversation in their head!! Am I?? :|

[JoSchmooze]

I do not know how many points I earned this weekend with my workshop. But oh my god, when I got into my car on Sunday afternoon I could NOT lift my arms onto the steering wheel. The night before, seriously, I had to lift my legs when I wanted to move them. Yeah 13 hours of Yoga???:praying:

Zumba last night was a great sweat. And then swimming. Today... my wee legs are tired. I do not know if I will go to circuit training or not. He is my least favorite instructor, but I do like the cardio and weight exercises. But, I may just go home and clean my house. I have an urge to purge. Does that burn calories?? :canadian:

Today I am having Sushi for lunch. I love that stuff. Then tonite it will be a raw meal because of the carb count on the rice this afternoon.

I won't know if I am going to class until 4:40. I figure I will just torture myself... go you lazy ass... but I am a tired ass... too bad just go... but... I am sure I am not the only one who has this conversation in their head!! Am I?? :|

Nope, you ain't the only one....
I know I do it too....
And I am sure there are plenty of others....

:cigar2:

[Zimmeh]

I had 6oz of my chicken and half of the Mac & Cheese for dinner!

Finished it off with a ten minute brisk walk...

Zimmeh

[Ginger]

Today was okay.

I had a piece of toast for breakfast with a smear of peanut butter, then a small piece of raisin bread.

For lunch I ate a peanut butter sandwich, a non-fat yogurt, and later, a power bar and a banana.

While i waiting for the train at 5, I broke down and had another power bar.

When I got home, my partner had made pasta and greens with canoli beans. We sprinkled parmesan cheese on top.

I feel like I ate too much or ate terrible choices of food today, but when I see it in writing, it's not all that bad.

I was so tired, coming home on a commuter train, I fell asleep in the middle of a three-seater, and woke to see the guy on one side had gotten off, and I was still smashed against the other guy. I laughed and apologized and he said, No problem. I actually felt sort of comforted.

[Gemme]

Another good email about good foods:

These 8 powerhouse foods are filled with nutrients that are very beneficial for your body. Consider adding these foods to your diet to assist in weight loss and add antioxidants, fiber, and omega 3's - just to name a few benefits.

1. Cruciferous Vegetables


Cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and bok choy. These vegetables all have compound called glucosinolates which have been shown to reduce the risk of certain cancers, according to a 2005 article from Pennington Nutrition Series. They have also been shown to reduce oxidative stress in the body.

These vegetables are high in vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, folic acid, and magnesium. Add cruciferous vegetables to stir-fries, casseroles, soups, and vegetable platters. Take care not to overcook them as they release a sulfurous compound when overcooked.

2. Red Beans


Small red beans look like a smaller version of the kidney bean, and it is used commonly in the traditional Latin dish of red beans and rice. This small bean was ranked the highest in antioxidant amount according to a 2004 study by the USDA. Antioxidants may help decrease stress in the body and help prevent many chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer. and Alzheimer's disease. Incorporate a variety of antioxidant rich foods such as beans, nuts, fruits, and vegetables into your diet for the maximum benefit from these foods.

3. Cherries


One major health benefit from cherries is their ability to help reduce inflammation in the body. A 2006 study from The Journal of Nutrition suggests that consuming Bing cherries may reduce certain inflammatory markers in the body. Subjects in this study consumed 280 gm of cherries per day for 28 days and blood samples were compared with subjects who did not eat Bing cherries. Cherries are high in a compound called anthocyanins, which is what gives them their bright red color. Anthocyanins are an antioxidant that has been shown to potentially provide certain health benefits with reducing inflammation and possibly lowering risk of certain diseases. Enjoy cherries fresh, frozen, or dried to add these touted health benefits to your diet.

4. Chia Seeds


Chia seeds have been around since the ancient Mayan and Aztec times. These tiny seeds have gotten a lot of publicity in recent years as being a nutrition power house. They are naturally high in omega 3 fatty acids, protein, fiber, antioxidants, and minerals. In fact, chia seeds are among the highest plant sources of omega 3 acids. The fiber in chia seeds is mainly soluble fiber, and when added with a liquid, will expand and absorb the fluid. This may have some benefit for helping you feel fuller longer and reducing hunger. Add 1-2 tbsp. of chia seeds in yogurt, smoothies, water or juice, baked goods, dips, etc.

5. Avocado


Avocados are a rich source of monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, potassium and folate. The American Heart Association recommends a diet high in fruits and vegetables and up to 30% calories from mainly unsaturated fat. Choose avocados in place of fats high in saturated fats like butter and cheese. Since avocados are high in fat, they are higher in calories. Eat avocados in moderation; a 2 tbsp serving provides about 50 calories and 3 gm of monounsaturated fat. Add avocados to salads, spreads, dips, toast, egg dishes, etc.

6. Pistachios


A 1 oz serving of pistachios (about 49 nuts) provides around 3 gm fiber, 6 gm protein, good source of vitamin B6, thiamin, magnesium, copper, and more - all for less than 200 calories. Pistachios are also provide a high amount of antioxidants, and they may contribute to lowering cholesterol.

7. Seaweed


Seaweed is commonly consumed in Japanese traditional culture. Seaweed provides a rich source for iron, folate, vitamin C, vitamin K, and iodine. Seaweed provides a rich source of minerals that can typically be lacking in a standard western diet. Dried seaweed can be sprinkled onto salads, eaten as a snack, or added to dishes such as sushi or miso soup. Seaweed can come in different varieties and colors, dried or wet.

8. Pumpkin


Pumpkin gets its rich, orange color from beta carotene. Beta carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, which helps heal the body from infections and enhance eye sight and gene transcription. Pumpkin is full of this antioxidant compound, as well as being low in calories and high in fiber, potassium, and many other nutrients. You can incorporate pumpkin into your diet easily by using canned pumpkin. Make sure it is 100% pure pumpkin and does not have any added fillers. Add pumpkin to oatmeal, yogurt, smoothies, baked goods, chili, etc.


Holly Klamer is a Registered Dietitian and personal trainer in Colorado. She received her undergraduate degree with a double major in Dietetics and Health Fitness from Central Michigan University. She then went to Colorado State University for her Master's degree in Human Nutrition emphasizing in Exercise Science. There she completed her dietetic internship to be a Registered Dietitian and was a teaching assistant in the nutrition department. Holly loves to travel, be outside, run, road bike and hike. She ran cross country and track in college and still enjoys competing in long distance running. Her passions are in sports nutrition, disordered eating, teaching others how to eat healthy on a limited budget, worksite wellness, weight loss and food allergies. She enjoys public speaking for various nutrition topics especially to young athletes, writing nutrition education material, and individual counseling. Holly has a passion to help people reach their goals of health and improve athletic performance. She currently works as a personal trainer, sports dietitian and free lance writer for various health websites. To contact Holly, email her at holly.klamer@gmail.com.

[Leigh]

Good evening healthies,

Well I'm sitting here watching The Biggest Loser and maybe its that I'm turning 32 tomorrow, or that this season of TBL is all about "no excuses" and I've always been full of them but something has struck a chord in me tonight that really has me doing alot of thinking about what my excuses have been in the past and how I have always not done things because I had one excuse after another. I don't feel like it, I have no energy, I have better things to do, nothing's gonna change so why bother, I can't do it etc ~ one after another I've thrown them out there for most of my life, not thinking that I was really damaging myself in the long run. But I see so much of myself in alot of the contestants including a young girl named Megan, who never thought she could do the exercising and eating right because she never felt like she deserved it ~ that's how I've always felt.

Tomorrow is my birthday and I am turning 32 years old, but nothing in my life has changed ~ but its not anyone's fault, its my own. *I* am the one who has essentially done these things to myself and there is no excuse for letting myself go as far as I have. I have to be the one to change what I am doing; its upto me and only me to change my eating habits, my drinking habits, my exercise regimen and my outlook on life. I cannot continue to live the way that I have been living, I can't continue to excuse my laziness and say its okay because its not. That's one thing I've lived behind all of my life which is excuses, and I think there comes a time in life where we need to just throw those excuses out the window and realize that no matter what we don't have to live behind excuses anymore.

It is upto me to change what I don't like about myself, so I am starting tomorrow and with the help/encouragement of my friends here I will be working towards a brand new me! :)

[JoSchmooze]

Good evening healthies,

Well I'm sitting here watching The Biggest Loser and maybe its that I'm turning 32 tomorrow, or that this season of TBL is all about "no excuses" and I've always been full of them but something has struck a chord in me tonight that really has me doing alot of thinking about what my excuses have been in the past and how I have always not done things because I had one excuse after another. I don't feel like it, I have no energy, I have better things to do, nothing's gonna change so why bother, I can't do it etc ~ one after another I've thrown them out there for most of my life, not thinking that I was really damaging myself in the long run. But I see so much of myself in alot of the contestants including a young girl named Megan, who never thought she could do the exercising and eating right because she never felt like she deserved it ~ that's how I've always felt.

Tomorrow is my birthday and I am turning 32 years old, but nothing in my life has changed ~ but its not anyone's fault, its my own. *I* am the one who has essentially done these things to myself and there is no excuse for letting myself go as far as I have. I have to be the one to change what I am doing; its upto me and only me to change my eating habits, my drinking habits, my exercise regimen and my outlook on life. I cannot continue to live the way that I have been living, I can't continue to excuse my laziness and say its okay because its not. That's one thing I've lived behind all of my life which is excuses, and I think there comes a time in life where we need to just throw those excuses out the window and realize that no matter what we don't have to live behind excuses anymore.

It is upto me to change what I don't like about myself, so I am starting tomorrow and with the help/encouragement of my friends here I will be working towards a brand new me! :)


I applaud your choices! I wish that I had
had these same revelations when I was 32 y.o....
I saw last week's Biggest Loser and
I believe it was Megan's mom who sacrificed her
spot on the ranch so that Megan could
continue on her journey....
Keep coming back here if support/encoragement
at home is lacking....where are ALL here to
participate in healthy weight loss...

And by the way.....
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

:cowboy:

[Zimmeh]

I walked around the school while eating my turkey sandwich. I got a little sun and now I look like a pink lobster :) Love living in Florida!

Zimmeh

[Medusa]

Stellar workout tonight with The Princess.

20 minute warm up on the treadmill at 2 incline.

3 sets of 10 reps each on 5 different precor arm and back machines = 150 reps total.

10 minute cool down on the stationary.

PUMPED!

[Zimmeh]

Good Morning Everyone,

Since I will be going to the movies tonight I have to watch everything I eat today.

Breakfast:

Chobani black cherry yogurt
Venti iced coffee with non fat milk

Lunch:

Weight Watchers Smart Choice entree

Dinner:

Open

Snacks:

Fruit

Zimmeh

[PinkieLee]

Good morning all you healthy peeps! It is fabulous to see everyone and their continued success! I'm telling you... awesome motivation to keep this healthy living journey alive!

Things are finally starting to get back into a normal routine for us. Eating out almost every night has STOPPED! We're back to cooking healthier meals at home 5 nights a week. I am back to eating most of my lunches at home, too... not only helps with the calorie intake, but saves me some money, too.

I've also given up one of my nights working at the 2nd job. I decided to forget about the extra money and focus more on my quality of life. So now we have more extra time to cook meals together, work out at the gym/or go for walks at the park and just enjoy eachother's company without always having to be somewhere else.

Meals planned for the day....

Breakfast:
Raisin bran cereal with skim milk
a banana

Lunch & Dinner:
Subway sandwich with lots of veggies that will be 1/2 for lunch and 1/2 for dinner.

Snacks:
Yogurt
apple and/or cutie

I hope everyone has a fabulous day!!!

[Zimmeh]

I am thinking of doing the same thing. I am always exhausted and not exercising enough.

Hugs and have a good day,

Zimmeh

Good morning all you healthy peeps! It is fabulous to see everyone and their continued success! I'm telling you... awesome motivation to keep this healthy living journey alive!

Things are finally starting to get back into a normal routine for us. Eating out almost every night has STOPPED! We're back to cooking healthier meals at home 5 nights a week. I am back to eating most of my lunches at home, too... not only helps with the calorie intake, but saves me some money, too.

I've also given up one of my nights working at the 2nd job. I decided to forget about the extra money and focus more on my quality of life. So now we have more extra time to cook meals together, work out at the gym/or go for walks at the park and just enjoy eachother's company without always having to be somewhere else.

Meals planned for the day....

Breakfast:
Raisin bran cereal with skim milk
a banana

Lunch & Dinner:
Subway sandwich with lots of veggies that will be 1/2 for lunch and 1/2 for dinner.

Snacks:
Yogurt
apple and/or cutie

I hope everyone has a fabulous day!!!

[Scorp]

Howdy Health Nuts!

For lunch this week I've been eating my Oikos (fruit on the bottom) NON-FAT yogurt, a banana and apple...And you know what? I can't believe I'm content with just that for lunch!

We eat "healthy" dinners at night and weigh our meats, veggies, etc on a food scale. It's been working out pretty well.

My downfall is snacking later in the evening that consists of things that are on my weight watcher's plan, and I somewhat go over my points with those types of foods/snacks. That's the sucky part, but...

I'm a little excited knowing I weigh in on Saturday morning and wonder if I'll hit my 2 lb. weight loss (crossing fingers) for the week. My plan is to lose 10 lbs. a month, so if I can lose 2 lbs a week, that's fine with me!

I actually fit into a pair of my black jeans today. They're a bit snug, but I am comfortably in them. I NEVER liked tight fitting things ever and always would like to wear loose clothing (even when I was a lot thinner).

I'm hoping i'll be a little more toned and hope my ass looks good in my black jeans. :sunglass:LOL...I have no hips so that's a good thing (for me).

Keep up the good work folks! :hangloose:

[SelfMadeMan]

I need to do this in list form because that feels best to me right now.

Warning: This will be an overshare. :)


**Don't read #1 if you are triggered by negative talk**
1. I have cut way back on posting in here in the last several weeks because of several things, many of which are I'm not doing anything significant and also that I don't have anything new to add. Ho hum, y'all, and the scales show it! Holding steady! The other reason, which is actually a biggie for me, is because it doesn't always feel safe to me to expose my struggles when I know that the Wicked Witch of the West is out there in cyberland watching.
Well, I decided today that I'm not really going to let that shit keep me from this space any longer because the people here are amazing and positive and this journey isn't about being "safe" but rather being "real" and the "real" for me today is that I've never shrunk from nasty people and I'm not going to start now.
/assy.

2. I hit the gym tonight with The Princess and we worked our asses off for 45 minutes. I did a circuit of 15-minutes each with treadmill, bike, and elliptical and it was warm in the gym so I was sweating my ASS off. I hope that is literal!

3. Progresso Light Santa Fe Chicken Veggie soup is amazing! Only 120 calories for the entire can (but I only ate like 2/3). Very filling and spiced well. Yes, more sodium than I would like but a nice alternative to a sandwich and definitely less calories!

4. I set another mini-goal and a longer-term goal. I now write it on my calendar at work so that I don't forget. People at work are kinda agog that I readily expose my weight and goals but I have found that it is motivating the entire group to get on track. We have workout dates 3 nights a week now and are all helping each other stay on track with lunch choices.

5. I have been thinking again about what "healthy" means. I think for a lot of us it's not just about the body but also about the mind and spirit. Have definitely been spending more time with quality friends and focusing on things that make me feel spiritually balanced. This means that my yard and garden are looking great and I feel wrapped in love because I have a LOT of girlfriends who are amazing and special and loving and better than most anything I know.

6. Garden! YES! As in, raised bed! Jack and I built the first of our raised beds this weekend which required several hours of clearing in the back yard. We live on 3 acres and the back part of our land is like a wooly park so we've been digging out rocks and cutting out brush. Hard work and sweaty but I feel really good about it. The fresh veggies are going to be a GREAT bonus! We are doing garlic, onions, jalapenos, tomatoes, green peppers, squash, zucchini, lettuce, red potatoes and cantaloupes.
I am also going to do carrots in buckets and going to start some asparagus plants ( I know they take a while!). Also planning on putting in an herb garden for fresh basil, oregano, parsley, and whatever else strikes my fancy.
These are all things I will eat in large quantities. :)


Sorry for the listy-loo but it makes me feel better about not having to put pretty transitions between paragraphs! LOL!

I LOVE the Progresso Santa Fe Chicken Veggie soup!!!! It's SO good, I also like the Light Beef Pot Roast. Oh, and there's a jalapeno black bean version too that is SOOOOOO good! And I love that they print the WW points on the label!
Kudos to you for your progress!!!!

[Thinker]

Good to read, Pinkie... Glad you are looking out for #1 with regard to some time for yourself. :)

Good morning all you healthy peeps! It is fabulous to see everyone and their continued success! I'm telling you... awesome motivation to keep this healthy living journey alive!

Things are finally starting to get back into a normal routine for us. Eating out almost every night has STOPPED! We're back to cooking healthier meals at home 5 nights a week. I am back to eating most of my lunches at home, too... not only helps with the calorie intake, but saves me some money, too.

I've also given up one of my nights working at the 2nd job. I decided to forget about the extra money and focus more on my quality of life. So now we have more extra time to cook meals together, work out at the gym/or go for walks at the park and just enjoy eachother's company without always having to be somewhere else.

Meals planned for the day....

Breakfast:
Raisin bran cereal with skim milk
a banana

Lunch & Dinner:
Subway sandwich with lots of veggies that will be 1/2 for lunch and 1/2 for dinner.

Snacks:
Yogurt
apple and/or cutie

I hope everyone has a fabulous day!!!

[Thinker]

Doing great, Scorp!!!

I've been alllllll into my water consumption this go 'round. I noticed the other day that after drinking half a bottle of water, I could not finish one of my meals...........and it was something GOOD too.....something I was totally diggin'!!! But I realized it was because of the water, and that's an okay thing!

So maybe drinking water with your evening snack might help???

Just a thought..

Good luck on your weigh-in!

Howdy Health Nuts!

For lunch this week I've been eating my Oikos (fruit on the bottom) NON-FAT yogurt, a banana and apple...And you know what? I can't believe I'm content with just that for lunch!

We eat "healthy" dinners at night and weigh our meats, veggies, etc on a food scale. It's been working out pretty well.

My downfall is snacking later in the evening that consists of things that are on my weight watcher's plan, and I somewhat go over my points with those types of foods/snacks. That's the sucky part, but...

I'm a little excited knowing I weigh in on Saturday morning and wonder if I'll hit my 2 lb. weight loss (crossing fingers) for the week. My plan is to lose 10 lbs. a month, so if I can lose 2 lbs a week, that's fine with me!

I actually fit into a pair of my black jeans today. They're a bit snug, but I am comfortably in them. I NEVER liked tight fitting things ever and always would like to wear loose clothing (even when I was a lot thinner).

I'm hoping i'll be a little more toned and hope my ass looks good in my black jeans. :sunglass:LOL...I have no hips so that's a good thing (for me).

Keep up the good work folks! :hangloose:

[Thinker]

Sometimes I forget how much better I feel when I focus on water consumption. I'm back to having my morning coffee (always only one cup) and then water for the rest of the day.....anywhere from 48-64 ounces.

I usually work in two different servings of V8 and one serving of a fruit juice, but I actually count those as parts of meals.....ways to get in fruits and veggies.

The water though.....that's where it's at for me.

Like I said the other day, I'm eating small meals/snacks every 2-3 hours and that is such a great plan for me. I never feel full and never feel hungry, and *that* keeps me from thinking about FOOD and wanting to feel FULL and making BAD CHOICES. ;) Yeah, you all know that script; that's the one that always sends me looking for a loaded burrito!! :|