Healthy Weight Loss

[Thinker]

OMG YUM...FUJI APPLES!!!!! SOOO SWEET and satisfying....I'm now hooked...and guess what?

NO POINTSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!! :cheer:

:) Yay!

One of the things I have really appreciated about being on WW and trying to make the points work for me is re-discovering foods I forgot I loved. ...like apples, tuna on toast, strawberries on vanilla frozen yogurt, V8 juice, WATER (!!!), beans & rice... So much good stuff that is good for us!

[sweetfemme247]

I did the wii this morning, so far this week I have lost 6 pounds yay

[PinkieLee]

I did the wii this morning, so far this week I have lost 6 pounds yay

6 pounds.... WOW look at you go honey! That's awesome!

Wii is always fun... and a great way to get in some exercise, too!

[sweetfemme247]

6 pounds.... WOW look at you go honey! That's awesome!

Wii is always fun... and a great way to get in some exercise, too!

I bowl 10 games a day, plus run for 8 mins and then do the hola hoop

[PinkieLee]

That's awesome!

I have a Wii Fit... still in the box. Ugh, we just had to have the thing a couple of years ago, and have still never opened it! We do play the bowling & baseball :)

[Gentle Tiger]

It is slightly possible that I am becoming addicted to this self torturing behavior we are calling healthy living. And it's the fault of you people. Yes I said YOU people with all your support and sharing of triumphs, struggles and set backs. And now because of all the blasted changes I am down 12.2 lbs.

And in case you didn't pick up on the sarcasm, this is a grateful rant because while I am glad I am making progress I still want I bloody Pepsi and snickers and a donut and...and...and...

Nevertheless, thank you.

[Scorp]

LOL, don't feel bad Rosie...We also have Wii Fit and we don't use it! We were addicted to Mario Kart instead!! :)


That's awesome!

I have a Wii Fit... still in the box. Ugh, we just had to have the thing a couple of years ago, and have still never opened it! We do play the bowling & baseball :)

[Zimmeh]

You are welcome and congratulations!!!

Zimmy

It is slightly possible that I am becoming addicted to this self torturing behavior we are calling healthy living. And it's the fault of you people. Yes I said YOU people with all your support and sharing of triumphs, struggles and set backs. And now because of all the blasted changes I am down 12.2 lbs.

And in case you didn't pick up on the sarcasm, this is a grateful rant because while I am glad I am making progress I still want I bloody Pepsi and snickers and a donut and...and...and...

Nevertheless, thank you.

[Zimmeh]

The boxing game is fun and I used to kick my old boss's butt in it..

Zimmy

LOL, don't feel bad Rosie...We also have Wii Fit and we don't use it! We were addicted to Mario Kart instead!! :)

[Zimmeh]

Good Morning Everyone,

I have gone back to having my yogurt, chocolate Soymilk and coffee for breakfast...I woke up late this morning so I didn't get to the gym, but I have to clean my apartment today, so that will help burn some calories. Then I am going to hit the gym tonight...No matter what!

Congratulations to all of you all who have lost weight!

Zimmy

[JustJo]

It is slightly possible that I am becoming addicted to this self torturing behavior we are calling healthy living. And it's the fault of you people. Yes I said YOU people with all your support and sharing of triumphs, struggles and set backs. And now because of all the blasted changes I am down 12.2 lbs.

And in case you didn't pick up on the sarcasm, this is a grateful rant because while I am glad I am making progress I still want I bloody Pepsi and snickers and a donut and...and...and...

Nevertheless, thank you.

:cheer:

Go ahead, blame us. But blame yourself for all of the hard work too! :cheesy:

[PinkieLee]

It is slightly possible that I am becoming addicted to this self torturing behavior we are calling healthy living. And it's the fault of you people. Yes I said YOU people with all your support and sharing of triumphs, struggles and set backs. And now because of all the blasted changes I am down 12.2 lbs.

And in case you didn't pick up on the sarcasm, this is a grateful rant because while I am glad I am making progress I still want I bloody Pepsi and snickers and a donut and...and...and...

Nevertheless, thank you.

WOOHOOOO now, that's the best news I've heard all morning! You should feel very proud of yourself... even if we did peer pressure into this healthy living crap ;)

Keep up the great work my friend!!!

[lipstixgal]

I, too have lost weight this past summer like 32.5 pounds so far. I exercise at the gym and eat healthier and more satisfying. Yogurt dannon's low fat are yummy, greek yogurt fat free, salmon any protein I want and lots of veggies, its great and the thread is a great support system too..thanks Jo and everyone else for their support in this process.

[turasultana]

Weigh in yesterday - lost 2lbs. Down 11.4 so far (6 weeks).

I get 29 points and I use every one of them! Plus a good chunk of the weekly 49.

i generally eat what I'm craving or whatever I'm in the mood for, just less of it. So last nite that was 2 slices of pepperoni pizza. (11 points).

generally I have some kind of Kashi cereal for breakfast with skim milk. Fruit mid morning (peach today), for lunch I have a hard roll (4 points) and I brought a can of tuna and some chopped onion and red pepper, I'll add one packet of mayo, mush it up and call it lunch. I'll probably have popcorn for a snack later. Maybe more fruit.

dinner - who knows. could be leftover pizza since its in the fridge...

[PinkieLee]

Weigh in yesterday - lost 2lbs. Down 11.4 so far (6 weeks).

I get 29 points and I use every one of them! Plus a good chunk of the weekly 49.

i generally eat what I'm craving or whatever I'm in the mood for, just less of it. So last nite that was 2 slices of pepperoni pizza. (11 points).

generally I have some kind of Kashi cereal for breakfast with skim milk. Fruit mid morning (peach today), for lunch I have a hard roll (4 points) and I brought a can of tuna and some chopped onion and red pepper, I'll add one packet of mayo, mush it up and call it lunch. I'll probably have popcorn for a snack later. Maybe more fruit.

dinner - who knows. could be leftover pizza since its in the fridge...

Congratulations on the weight loss! You are doing amazing... keep up the great work!

I LOVE to see that we are still able to enjoy our favorite foods (like pizza). Smarter choices for breakfast & lunch enable us to splurge from time to time so we don't feel deprived... 'cause that's when the binges start (at least for me).

[apretty]

E and I had such a busy weekend that we didn't get to our normal food-shopping!

I work a few hours longer today so E's going to stop after work and get us some things that are our basics, for me those include

chocolate soy (for my coffee every morning in lieu of cream)
low fat cottage cheese (from costco, I usually go through a big container in about 10 days!)
a variety of fruits (E doesn't do melon besides watermelon but I like all kinds)
a variety of vegetables


My everyday cereal is Special K red berries (lower points than Go Lean Kashi)

........................

I've been a bad tracker and have been losing weight with only mild success because I haven't stuck with the plan 100%--I am about at 50% some days I am at 10% on plan. So, I am down 12 lbs and would love to see that 15 lb weight loss (and get another gold star!!!!!!) but I am coasting and each time I brace myself at the scale, thinking that I am going to gain, I am down .8 or .12 of a pound and feel like I've really got one over on someone or dodged a bullet. Which sounds silly because I am not in a race, but *fat*, while can be chocked full of wholesome goodness--I find that mine is chocked full of a range of highly-charged emotions and a part of the stage for my personal, human drama and I appear to be committed to clinging to every pound that I am trying to lose in ways that I don't yet fully accept or recognize.

So, how do you let go of a part of you that you have spent so long identifying with?

[*Anya*]

Lost 1/2 pound. The weird thing about weight loss I learned over my 2-year saga to lose 50 pounds is to never, ever give up (I had kind of forgotten that).

I can totally stick to my eating plan, not lose anything for a couple of weeks (plateau) and then, all of a sudden, start losing again.

It is during that discouraging phase that I can go off the rails but refuse to do so today.

Another mind-trick I had forgotten about, in addition to only focusing on 10 pounds at a time; is to call each 10 a decade instead of pounds. Sounds silly but it worked for me to decrease focus on pounds. Now I have 1 pound to go to get into my next decade.

Discouraging to know I was already in this place over a year ago and am again having to retrace my steps but it is what it is. I just can't focus on that.

Breakfast today, egg-white scramble with one once of lean ham; cup coffee with Splenda and my teaspoon of half-in-half.

Cheers to all!

[JustJo]

I find this thread to be such an incredible support...and all of you an inspiration.

Yesterday was an incredibly tough day for me....tiring, emotional, lots of negativity to deal with at work that had me (literally) in tears and about to quit...which is crazy since I love what I do.

Anyway...by dinner, I wanted a philly cheesesteak and nothing else was going to do. So...I had it. I did skip the fries (even though I love them and they make them fresh and delicious)....and just enjoyed every mouthful of that sandwich.

Afterwards....I was tempted by chips, ice cream and all the usual crappo I'd eat, but instead I thought....nope....don't beat yourself up, just back on track....and had the before bedtime snack that I should have.

I'm an every day weigher too and, this morning, the scale didn't hate me. In fact, I'm down a couple pounds just since Saturday and yesterday's splurge didn't move the needle up. I know there's always a big initial loss, so I'm not counting on any particular number each week.

In fact, I'm trying not to focus on the scale, but instead just eating a healthier diet to control my diabetes....but it still feels really nice to see the scale moving in the right general direction.

Fresh fruit, lots of salad stuff and veggies, lean protein and greek yogurt are playing a big role in my shopping cart this morning... :)

[Scorp]

Ok, I'm seriously having a bad moment here...I'm craving Thai food sooooooooooo baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaad......And nearby is an awesome place to get just that.....

Last night I was bad :( and I promised myself I would eat a salad today...Soooo I think I just made up my mind by typing this sentence.

Also note, today is the day I decided to NOT to continue to smoke. I had my last one yesterday at 6 PM....

[Leigh]

Good morning everyone!

Well I'm noticing some changes in Myself and honestly, I dont know if I really like them. I'm having a hard time getting on track and over the last couple of days not only do I notice that My feet are swollen, but also My lower legs are getting fatter (the skin is much tighter). I haven't been able to stick to My goal of less pop and such, but I walked across the street to 7-11 this morning and I just couldn't help but feel that things aren't right. My right foot is especially swollen and its not easy to walk, its like 2 times the normal size and I know that isn't good.

I know that I need to change, for My health, and it scares Me to make these changes but I know that they have to happen. I want to go on Weight Watchers and would love to go to meetings but I know that I can't afford it, but the points seem to be working for everyone else so I really wanna give it a try though right now I'm not sure how I can do it. I'm going to start today by going back over all of the pages in this thread and writing down things I wanna try ~ tips, recipes etc which will hopefully start Me down the right path. I'm sick of being fat, sick of feeling sluggish and tired and just plain icky .......... something has to give and I'm no longer going to allow My health to suffer because of Myself.

I started this morning, by having water flavored with Nestea Singles in pomegranate and blueberry, plus over at 7-11 I bought breakfast ........ they sell packages of apple slices and red grapes there so that was what I had. For Me thats not the type of breakfast I'm used to, if I ever have any ~ I generally don't have anything in the morning and will then eat more than I should at lunchtime. I'm changing that and by having something this morning (the fruit), hopefully that'll be a good beginning. I know that I can come here and have the support of My dearest friends who will keep Me sane and motivated (and give Me virtual kicks in the ass when needed). Thank you so much to everyone here and to this thread for helping Me to keep going ~ I appreciate everything :gimmehug:

[Medusa]

So, how do you let go of a part of you that you have spent so long identifying with?


WORD. My answer is: I don't know yet.

The fat girl in me is beloved. On purpose and with vigor. Politically and emotionally. Because I've worked at it for years and because it is a sign that I reject the negativity, body hatred, sexism, beauty-ism, and bag of your basic "fucked up shit" that our Mothers and Fathers and the World has handed to us.

She is proof that I am strong. To be fat in this world requires that. She is proof that I have and will continue to survive. That I reject all of that fuckery.

It is a little unnerving to me that a smaller body will have such huge meaning for me and how I move in the world. I am apprehensive about people violating my personal space. I am apprehensive about receiving more unwanted attention than I already get. I am apprehensive about being more visible.

I feel safe in my fat body. Insulated. Strong. Unrepentant. Audacious. I don't want to stop feeling that way. So I'll have to do more work when I thought my "work" here was done. After all, I climbed the mountain of body shame and staked my blinding pink flag at the top and flipped the giant bird out across the horizon. A big ass "fuck you" to what I had to climb over and through to get there. And now? Im looking out over that valley and seeing more scary work ahead. Harder work maybe. And I'm hearing the echoes of "You'll never be acceptable no matter what size you are".

I am finding it a huge battle to let go of my control issues with food.
My personal stuff centers around not having control for a long time and gaining control by being able to choose (with reckless abandon) what I put in my piehole. Being out of control is being IN control for me.

And now, I feel like I have to give that control over to the part of me who wants to be more conscious, who wants to drive the bus for awhile, who says that being an eating machine is no longer acceptable.
Adult me is telling baby me that it's time to wave goodbye now.

I think I'll still be here when I'm smaller. (not in the thread, but here, in this body) The me who did the work. The me who identified with the fat and made it her own.
The reality is that the work I did is not going to just go away because my ass is smaller. I'll still need to reconnect with my body, I'll just have better tools to do it.

[PinkieLee]

((((Matthew)))))

I'm sorry to hear that you are having problems with your legs & feet. Sometimes, reality has a way of kickin' our own asses and gives you a wake up call that you can no longer ignore! I know for me, it was my feet constantly hurting and being humilated when I couldn't sit comfortably in one of my friend's outdoor chairs. I told myself ENOUGH IS ENOUGH... I am the only one that can change my life. I want to... and I HAVE to!

You mentioned that you really wanted to try out Weight Watchers. I know that it can be pricey, and really isn't an option for you right now. But what you can do is check out Amazon. They have TONS of books, kits & WW tools to get you started where you can track it all yourself... some of the books starting off used at $.01! You can't beat that!!! Just type in Weight Watchers... and almost 3,000 items pop up!

If you want to try out the meetings, call your local chapter to find out prices. In my hometown, it's only like $9.95 a month for unlimited meetings... where you can weigh in, buy supplies and find support.

GOOD LUCK my friend!

[Zimmeh]

Congrats on giving up smoking!

Zimmy

Ok, I'm seriously having a bad moment here...I'm craving Thai food sooooooooooo baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaad......And nearby is an awesome place to get just that.....

Last night I was bad :( and I promised myself I would eat a salad today...Soooo I think I just made up my mind by typing this sentence.

Also note, today is the day I decided to NOT to continue to smoke. I had my last one yesterday at 6 PM....

[Mister Bent]

Good morning everyone!

Well I'm noticing some changes in Myself and honestly, I dont know if I really like them. I'm having a hard time getting on track and over the last couple of days not only do I notice that My feet are swollen, but also My lower legs are getting fatter (the skin is much tighter). I haven't been able to stick to My goal of less pop and such, but I walked across the street to 7-11 this morning and I just couldn't help but feel that things aren't right. My right foot is especially swollen and its not easy to walk, its like 2 times the normal size and I know that isn't good.

I know that I need to change, for My health, and it scares Me to make these changes but I know that they have to happen. I want to go on Weight Watchers and would love to go to meetings but I know that I can't afford it, but the points seem to be working for everyone else so I really wanna give it a try though right now I'm not sure how I can do it. I'm going to start today by going back over all of the pages in this thread and writing down things I wanna try ~ tips, recipes etc which will hopefully start Me down the right path. I'm sick of being fat, sick of feeling sluggish and tired and just plain icky .......... something has to give and I'm no longer going to allow My health to suffer because of Myself.


Matthew, I am sincerely concerned for your well-being right now. The symptoms you are describing in your feet and legs are nothing to take lightly, and I strongly suggest you get to a doctor, or at the very least do some immediate research. This is nothing to take a "wait and see" attitude about. I have some thoughts on what you could do to help yourself right now, but not being a medical professional, I hesitate to do so.

I think it's a really great start that you will go back through this thread and try to glean tips that you think will work for you. Over the past week or so, I've seen you post elsewhere on the site about what you've been eating and I understand what you're saying here about suffering because of yourself. It does seem you've been engaging in a kind of self-sabotage, something I think to which many of us here in this thread can relate. It takes many forms, and food is a common one, you are definitely not alone in that. Please continue to reach out to people in this thread, I think you will find a lot of compassion and support.

I do have one suggestion for you. See if you can calculate what you spend each week at 7-11, I know it is not a cheap place to buy food. Then see what a week of Weight Watchers will cost you. I'm reasonably certain you will find not only that you could trim your 7-11 budget and afford WW, but that the value would greatly surpass anything you can find at 7-11. WW often offers discounted rates, etc. And I'm willing to bet if you went to a local chapter, and stated your case, that they would work with you.

Please look into this, WW offers amazing support and once you see that first good loss, I believe very strongly that you will feel so much better and be your own source of inspiration. Please do this today.

[Zimmeh]

Hey Matt,

Add some probiotic yogurt as a snack. I have found the Chobani brand to have the least amount of calories and sugar. My favorite one is the black cherry and blueberry one. I count how many calories I eat on a daily basis.

I also agree with what Mr. Bent said, you need to see a doctor. When my dad passed, he weighed 365lbs and he suffered from pulmonary adema. This is the scientific name for water around the pericardium sac of the heart.

I'm always here if you want to talk.

Hugs my friend!

Zimmy

Good morning everyone!

Well I'm noticing some changes in Myself and honestly, I dont know if I really like them. I'm having a hard time getting on track and over the last couple of days not only do I notice that My feet are swollen, but also My lower legs are getting fatter (the skin is much tighter). I haven't been able to stick to My goal of less pop and such, but I walked across the street to 7-11 this morning and I just couldn't help but feel that things aren't right. My right foot is especially swollen and its not easy to walk, its like 2 times the normal size and I know that isn't good.

I know that I need to change, for My health, and it scares Me to make these changes but I know that they have to happen. I want to go on Weight Watchers and would love to go to meetings but I know that I can't afford it, but the points seem to be working for everyone else so I really wanna give it a try though right now I'm not sure how I can do it. I'm going to start today by going back over all of the pages in this thread and writing down things I wanna try ~ tips, recipes etc which will hopefully start Me down the right path. I'm sick of being fat, sick of feeling sluggish and tired and just plain icky .......... something has to give and I'm no longer going to allow My health to suffer because of Myself.

I started this morning, by having water flavored with Nestea Singles in pomegranate and blueberry, plus over at 7-11 I bought breakfast ........ they sell packages of apple slices and red grapes there so that was what I had. For Me thats not the type of breakfast I'm used to, if I ever have any ~ I generally don't have anything in the morning and will then eat more than I should at lunchtime. I'm changing that and by having something this morning (the fruit), hopefully that'll be a good beginning. I know that I can come here and have the support of My dearest friends who will keep Me sane and motivated (and give Me virtual kicks in the ass when needed). Thank you so much to everyone here and to this thread for helping Me to keep going ~ I appreciate everything :gimmehug:

[Gentle Tiger]

That's awesome!

I have a Wii Fit... still in the box. Ugh, we just had to have the thing a couple of years ago, and have still never opened it! We do play the bowling & baseball :)

I keep hearing about the fun of Wii but my apartment is on the third floor. I don't think those below me would appreciate me wii-ing about (knew made up word - lol).

Congratulations on the weight loss! You are doing amazing... keep up the great work!

I LOVE to see that we are still able to enjoy our favorite foods (like pizza). Smarter choices for breakfast & lunch enable us to splurge from time to time so we don't feel deprived... 'cause that's when the binges start (at least for me).

This is my problem, feeling deprived. It's why I have a hard time sticking with the plan to healthier living. I'm constantly saying no. Can't say what I want to say. Can't do what I want to do. Can't eat what I want to eat. I keep myself on short leash as it were. And then periodically, well I lose my mind and eat whatever pops into my brain. The good thing is that I don't eat as much as I used to.

I am really trying to find a way to live a balanced life rather than in a straight jacket.

[Leigh]

((((Matthew)))))

I'm sorry to hear that you are having problems with your legs & feet. Sometimes, reality has a way of kickin' our own asses and gives you a wake up call that you can no longer ignore! I know for me, it was my feet constantly hurting and being humilated when I couldn't sit comfortably in one of my friend's outdoor chairs. I told myself ENOUGH IS ENOUGH... I am the only one that can change my life. I want to... and I HAVE to!

You mentioned that you really wanted to try out Weight Watchers. I know that it can be pricey, and really isn't an option for you right now. But what you can do is check out Amazon. They have TONS of books, kits & WW tools to get you started where you can track it all yourself... some of the books starting off used at $.01! You can't beat that!!! Just type in Weight Watchers... and almost 3,000 items pop up!

If you want to try out the meetings, call your local chapter to find out prices. In my hometown, it's only like $9.95 a month for unlimited meetings... where you can weigh in, buy supplies and find support.

GOOD LUCK my friend!

Yes they can be pricey and with being on disability, not getting alot per month would make it hard to join the meetings unless I can call them and see if they have payment plans or something for those of us with limited incomes. I plan on checking out a few of My local stores over the next few weeks to find as many books as I can on Weight Watchers, and even some cookbooks. I am not a good cook but if I have healthy choices and say if I can cook one meal a week, not only will I get better as cooking (will never be a chef tho lol) I can certainly learn some new things.

I will also check out Amazon for books and stuff, thanks for the link hun ~ I appreciate it :-)

[Thinker]

Lost 1/2 pound. The weird thing about weight loss I learned over my 2-year saga to lose 50 pounds is to never, ever give up (I had kind of forgotten that).

I can totally stick to my eating plan, not lose anything for a couple of weeks (plateau) and then, all of a sudden, start losing again.

I really, really, really, really needed to hear this today.

Thank you.

[JustJo]

Matthew, my friend...as one diabetic to another....when is the last time you had a kidney function test?

Swelling of legs and feet is sometimes a sign of kidney damage or failure...common in diabetics. I'm not a medical professional by any means...but it's one of the signs that my doctors have told me many times over the years is a red flag not to be ignored.

This is seriously not something to take a "wait and see" attitude about. You need your kidneys my friend. :rrose:

Also, look wayyyyy back at the start of this thread and you'll find a link to a handy points guide from WW....I was using it without being a member way back when. It wasn't perfect, but it was a start....


Oh, wait....found it....here it is... http://www.augustgames.com/weightwatchers.htm

There's also a link back near the beginning for a shortcut to figuring out your WW points....I'll go look for it again, or scroll to the first few pages of my posts in this thread. I'm pretty sure it's there.

In the meantime....hugs to you.

So.....my new eating plan continues....

Breakfast this morning was one slice of whole wheat toast with peanut butter and black coffee, cuz I was running late and had to eat on the run.

Morning snack...greek yogurt and fresh cut fruit salad that I cheated and bought at the supermarket.

Lunch...now...running late still....a giant salad with lettuce, a whole tomato, half a cucumber, 1/2 cup of garbanzo beans (just drained and rinsed out of the can), a handful of black olives for those healthy fats, 1 hard-boiled egg chopped up for a little more protein and dressing made from apple cider vinegar, seasonings and extra virgin olive oil (another of the good fats I'm supposed to eat more of).

I'm crunching....it's huge...and it's yummy.

Afternoon snack will probably be more fruit and some low-fat mozzarella string cheese or maybe some almonds.

Dinner will be broiled steak and a plateful of steamed broccoli and cauliflower.

Before bed snack....who knows....but last nights string cheese and green olives was pretty darn yummy, so there may be a repeat.

[Leigh]

Matthew, I am sincerely concerned for your well-being right now. The symptoms you are describing in your feet and legs are nothing to take lightly, and I strongly suggest you get to a doctor, or at the very least do some immediate research. This is nothing to take a "wait and see" attitude about. I have some thoughts on what you could do to help yourself right now, but not being a medical professional, I hesitate to do so.

I think it's a really great start that you will go back through this thread and try to glean tips that you think will work for you. Over the past week or so, I've seen you post elsewhere on the site about what you've been eating and I understand what you're saying here about suffering because of yourself. It does seem you've been engaging in a kind of self-sabotage, something I think to which many of us here in this thread can relate. It takes many forms, and food is a common one, you are definitely not alone in that. Please continue to reach out to people in this thread, I think you will find a lot of compassion and support.

I do have one suggestion for you. See if you can calculate what you spend each week at 7-11, I know it is not a cheap place to buy food. Then see what a week of Weight Watchers will cost you. I'm reasonably certain you will find not only that you could trim your 7-11 budget and afford WW, but that the value would greatly surpass anything you can find at 7-11. WW often offers discounted rates, etc. And I'm willing to bet if you went to a local chapter, and stated your case, that they would work with you.

Please look into this, WW offers amazing support and once you see that first good loss, I believe very strongly that you will feel so much better and be your own source of inspiration. Please do this today.

Your right, its not something to take lightly and I certainly don't but I have been putting things off wayyyyyyy too long and I'm stopping that today. I'm going to calculate the amount I spend at 7-11 pretty soon and then I'll call Weight Watchers and see what they say about discounted rates. I'm going to then call My doctor and see if I can make an appointment with them soon cuz I am certainly concerned about this ........... I'll post a report to everyone when I get the appointment made and what they've told Me.

Hey Matt,

Add some probiotic yogurt as a snack. I have found the Chobani brand to have the least amount of calories and sugar. My favorite one is the black cherry and blueberry one. I count how many calories I eat on a daily basis.

I also agree with what Mr. Bent said, you need to see a doctor. When my dad passed, he weighed 365lbs and he suffered from pulmonary adema. This is the scientific name for water around the pericardium sac of the heart.

I'm always here if you want to talk.

Hugs my friend!

Zimmy

Yeah it didn't seem right so as I said above, I'm going to call WW and find out about discounted rates and try to go to a meeting, then I'm gonna call My doctor and see if I can make an appointment ......... will report when I know whats going on!

[PinkieLee]

Matthew, please know that none of us are harping on you... we are just really wanting to see you help yourself! Honestly, WW is really not that pricey. The online program is $17.95 per month... and it gives you ever single tool imaginable at your fingertips. Receipes, calculating tools, exercise tips, blogs, weight/activity trackers... EVERYTHING!

Think about this: Daily trips to the 7-11 might only be $2 for soda or a snack a day... but multiplied by 30 days of the month is $60! That's more than enough to pay for WW!

Seriously, check out the WW books on Amazon! You are gonna save a lot more $$ buying them online, than if you were to get them at a local bookstore. Many of the used books start out at A PENNY... you can't beat that!

At some point in our lives, we've all been where you are at ~ either physically or emotionally. We've all been afraid that we will fail... or perhaps that we might succeed. We've become attached to own comfort zones, ways of living AND eating... but there comes a time when YOU have to start the ball rolling. As much as any of us wants to help you my friend, YOU are the only one that can make these changes!

We are all routing for you... and look forward to seeing your healthy journey unfold!

[Scorp]

I had a large garden salad for lunch and put ONE tiny scoop of bowtie pasta salad on the side and one scoop of tuna....I was REALLY looking forward to eating this after getting myself pumped up. I was over the Thai food craving :)

I get back to my desk and my friend/co-worker comes over just to see me staring off into space asking what's wrong. I was disappointed, really disappointed over a damn salad. Since when??? Well, since I found a damn hair on my bowtie pasta!!! :eek:

My co-worker had to convince me to scoop that out because I had to eat something rather than not have lunch. The pasta was off to the side in a neat pile in the corner of the container. It took a while for me to want to eat it and I was grossed out :blink: And you bet your ass I took a picture of it to show the café tomorrow. If this were any other day, I would have boxed that shit up and went right back there and said “look what I found” :wtf: I know they would have instantly took care it by giving me something else and not expecting me to pay for it, but that was beside the point. I also knew that if I stepped back outside I would have ran over to the Thai place. I truly wanted to keep this “salad promise” to myself.

So, I ate the lettuce, grape tomatoes, shredded carrots and soybeans that were situated away from the pasta pile that I removed (with another utensil I may add). I examined that salad up and down as if I had a magnifying glass on the other end of the fork. After a few squeamish mouthfuls I was doing pretty good and was content. I dipped the romaine lettuce into my balsamic vinaigrette dressing in a tiny container on the side and I enjoyed it. :clap:

I’m proud of myself keeping my promise to myself and especially to my friend Lisa who talked me into originally getting a salad versus Thai. Come to think of it, I don’t know if I should smack her or hug her…. :seesaw:

[*Anya*]

I truly hope you do not feel that everyone is bugging you, as I believe it comes from a place of truly caring, by all of us.

I try not to wear my RN hat when I am on the planet but sometimes I feel I must and this is one of those times.

I am not licensed to diagnose, so therefore, will not attempt to do that. What I will say is that your symptoms do sound serious and can escalate quickly.

I would not make an MD appointment for any time in the distant future. I would, instead, encourage you to be seen by a physician, today or tomorrow, at the latest.

If he/she is unable to give you an appointment quickly, please use urgent care. They will need to both treat the underlying disorder as well as your current symptoms.

Please do so as quickly as possible.

Again, this simply comes from a place of caring about your well-being.

[PinkieLee]

Well despite the lovely Thai food images that Scorpie put into my head, I went home for lunch and fought off the craving for thai noodles. I got home, popped a lean cuisine in the microwave and made myself a big ol' salad with lettuce, tomato, baby carrots, avacado & LIGHT raspberry vinaigrette dressing. Dessert was a handful of strawberries & grapes.

When I walked back into the office, I saw the man unloading his truck with goodies for the office from Sams. Yes, that includes bags of chips, candy & sodas. He motioned me over and said, "don't worry sugar, I got you a present." He hands me another big ass fruit platter and a huge box of 94% fat free kettle corn. Finally, the man gets it :)

[sweetfemme247]

I have been speaking with matthew, he is trying to get into a doctor today, I told him not to wait.

[*Anya*]

"I had a large garden salad for lunch and put ONE tiny scoop of bowtie pasta salad on the side and one scoop of tuna....I was REALLY looking forward to eating this after getting myself pumped up. I was over the Thai food craving :)

I get back to my desk and my friend/co-worker comes over just to see me staring off into space asking what's wrong. I was disappointed, really disappointed over a damn salad. Since when??? Well, since I found a damn hair on my bowtie pasta!!! :eek: "
*****************************
Oh man, Scorp! Hairs in food or anywhere but on a head (or genitalia, lol), gross me out! It is one of my little, well maybe phobia is a strong word, but truly freaks me if I see it in food.

I totally understand that you needed to eat anyway.

Great job for sticking to your eating plan hair and all!

[Scorp]

You have "the man" well trained dontcha Pinks!?

I'm glad I'm so inspirational in a time of need (dabbing eyes and clenching heart)

PS...If anyone is struggling with being bad (food-wise) just think about the hair...That'll kill the urge...LMAO

Wavin' and have a great afternoon folks!!

Well despite the lovely Thai food images that Scorpie put into my head, I went home for lunch and fought off the craving for thai noodles. I got home, popped a lean cuisine in the microwave and made myself a big ol' salad with lettuce, tomato, baby carrots, avacado & LIGHT raspberry vinaigrette dressing. Dessert was a handful of strawberries & grapes.

When I walked back into the office, I saw the man unloading his truck with goodies for the office from Sams. Yes, that includes bags of chips, candy & sodas. He motioned me over and said, "don't worry sugar, I got you a present." He hads me another big ass fruit platter and a huge box of 94% fat free kettle corn. Finally, the man gets it :)

[Leigh]

Matthew, please know that none of us are harping on you... we are just really wanting to see you help yourself! Honestly, WW is really not that pricey. The online program is $17.95 per month... and it gives you ever single tool imaginable at your fingertips. Receipes, calculating tools, exercise tips, blogs, weight/activity trackers... EVERYTHING!

Think about this: Daily trips to the 7-11 might only be $2 for soda or a snack a day... but multiplied by 30 days of the month is $60! That's more than enough to pay for WW!

Seriously, check out the WW books on Amazon! You are gonna save a lot more $$ buying them online, than if you were to get them at a local bookstore. Many of the used books start out at A PENNY... you can't beat that!

At some point in our lives, we've all been where you are at ~ either physically or emotionally. We've all been afraid that we will fail... or perhaps that we might succeed. We've become attached to own comfort zones, ways of living AND eating... but there comes a time when YOU have to start the ball rolling. As much as any of us wants to help you my friend, YOU are the only one that can make these changes!

We are all routing for you... and look forward to seeing your healthy journey unfold!

Here is an update:

I called My primary doctor, who is also My trans doctor and because he only works on Friday's they are booking like two weeks in advance ~ but there is no way they can pencil Me in until October 28th! Thats NOT even close to being acceptable, so I've called a doctor I've seen before in the same strip mall as My parent's floral shop and they receptionist will get back to Me this afternoon. I don't like that I have to wait so I'm currently looking into walk-in clinics that may be in My area and if I have to I will take Myself to one of them and go from there. The nurse at My primary physician's office suggested that I keep this current doctor as My trans doctor but instead find another doctor as My family physician. I am going to do that so that's My next plan of action .......... I had a 500ml of pepsi and stuck it in the fridge, out of sight out of mind and I am currently drinking water as well as I just put 3-4 bottles of water in the fridge to make it cold.

Also I am stopping buying things at 7-11 unless I want the occasional lottery ticket, calling card etc ~ NO more slurpees, certainly no more pop, no more chocolate or anything of the sort. Starting tonight, after supper, I'm going to walk around the block atleast once a day; I'll build that up and then say after a week I'll increase the area and/or time in which I walk every week. More water, LOTS more, much more activities, I'm going to look into a discounted gym membership at the YMCA and have two 5lb weights sitting in the living room that I am going to start using. NO excuses and NO more waiting, this is ridiculous and its time I started looking out for Myself !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

P.S. I want everyone to know that I never once thought of anyone as bugging Me; I see it as friends helping Me out and everyone here has always come from a place of love and concern. I'm doing My best to get in to see a doctor, be it a walk in doctor or the woman who is near My parents flower shop ........... either way I'm working to get this taken care of! Thank you to all of My friends here for being concerned about Me, for the tips and all the help ~ it means alot to Me and I appreciate & love each of you :-)

P.P.S ~ a special thank you goes out to sweetfemme for talking to Me today! Your a bigger support than you may realize, but I'm not going to miss this chance to say the biggest THANK YOU I can find .......... it'll never be good enough to tell you how much I appreciate the support today and always :rrose:

[Scorp]

Thank you A/G!! I hope I made it clear in that earlier post that I removed that whole pile in one swipe and tossed it in another paper plate! Way out of character to me to eat up anyway....And thanks for pointing out the genital hair OMFG great...just great... :scared:




"I had a large garden salad for lunch and put ONE tiny scoop of bowtie pasta salad on the side and one scoop of tuna....I was REALLY looking forward to eating this after getting myself pumped up. I was over the Thai food craving :)

I get back to my desk and my friend/co-worker comes over just to see me staring off into space asking what's wrong. I was disappointed, really disappointed over a damn salad. Since when??? Well, since I found a damn hair on my bowtie pasta!!! :eek: "
*****************************
Oh man, Scorp! Hairs in food or anywhere but on a head (or genitalia, lol), gross me out! It is one of my little, well maybe phobia is a strong word, but truly freaks me if I see it in food.

I totally understand that you needed to eat anyway.

Great job for sticking to your eating plan hair and all!

[Gentle Tiger]

RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!
TAKE COVER PEOPLE!

I have added as in went back and got more salad to my plate to go with the barracuda I thawed out (caught it myself). Fun to catch and good to eat. And my refrigerator is full of fruits and vegetables for salads and my juicer. There is no Pepsi.

I have got to find that Apocalypse thread that I think Medusa started. :vigil:

[Leigh]

RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!
TAKE COVER PEOPLE!

I have added as in went back and got more salad to my plate to go with the barracuda I thawed out (caught it myself). Fun to catch and good to eat. And my refrigerator is full of fruits and vegetables for salads and my juicer. There is no Pepsi.

I have got to find that Apocalypse thread that I think Medusa started. :vigil:


Point Me in the same direction ~ I think its happening to Me too :|

[Scorp]

Tap, tap, tap...Now HARE this: :pointing:

http://images.icanhascheezburger.com/completestore/2008/12/10/128734292213198085.jpg

[Leigh]

Oh. My. God ........ and a GREY hare at that :|

[Medusa]

Whatever you do, don't pluck it or two more will grow in it's place!

[Leigh]

That just would not do :o

[Scorp]

Ut Oh....Houston we have a problem. Cuz I plucked about 5 out and look what happened!!!

http://bp3.blogger.com/_GmdLwwvNnOU/RoG1ILyQ1mI/AAAAAAAAAho/SAWOW0OVzVU/s320/DSC00122+%5Bblog%5D.JPG


Whatever you do, don't pluck it or two more will grow in it's place!

[Leigh]

Okay remind Me to NEVER pluck :|

[Medusa]

Scorp - That looks like a facial Merkin.

just sayin' :)

[Leigh]

I'm still checking into walk in clinics and waiting for the doctor to call Me back but I've been drinking nothing but water for the last hour or so and I've noticed some of the swelling going down ............ its a start but I'm still gonna see a doctor regardless!

[ruffryder]

Hello everybody! I'm glad to see some positive thoughts and words here.. Good job! Keep it up; keep healthy! So I started on a diet today and here is what I'm eating/drinking.

Breakfast: 1 grissini breadstick, coffee, stevia
Lunch: (just had and was delish!) can tuna, cherry tomatoes
Snack: Apple
Dinner: Chicken breast, green beans
Snack: Strawberries

water already 26 ounces and ready to go get me a huge ice tea!

[PinkieLee]

I had the day from hell yesterday, so I'm thinking I'm just gonna throw some chicken breasts on the George Foreman tonight for dinner. I've got some fresh green beans & a few red potatos that I'm gonna make, too.

I've still got plenty of points left for the day, so I'm gonna reward myself with a glass of red wine... it's been FOREVER! I deserve a damn 4 point glass of wine!

[Dominique]

I'm still checking into walk in clinics and waiting for the doctor to call Me back but I've been drinking nothing but water for the last hour or so and I've noticed some of the swelling going down ............ its a start but I'm still gonna see a doctor regardless!


Do you take insulin for the diabetes (if thats not too personal?)

I'm not a nurse, so I'm not giving a diagnosis. I have a heart problem that requires me to pay attention to it always. The fluid that is in you ankles is a huge warning to you, that you are retaining fluid. Fluid retention can squeeze your heart . Thats what happened to me. It is also a sign that maybe your kidneys are failing.....you have diabetes, you are already taxing the poor kidneys. Where does your back hurt at? Top near the shoulders? or at the waistband? Have you told these telephone answer'ers that you have a potential medical emergency going on here? This is not DRAMA..........

[PinkieLee]

I almost forgot 'till just now...

Yesterday, I was wearing a pair of capri pants that have been getting pretty baggy. So, I channeled Medusa's mojo **smile** and was able to pull my pants off & on WITHOUT unbuttoning or unzipping them! WOOHOO!

Guess what, 2nd pair of pants ~ did it again today :)

[Leigh]

Do you take insulin for the diabetes (if thats not too personal?)

I'm not a nurse, so I'm not giving a diagnosis. I have a heart problem that requires me to pay attention to it always. The fluid that is in you ankles is a huge warning to you, that you are retaining fluid. Fluid retention can squeeze your heart . Thats what happened to me. It is also a sign that maybe your kidneys are failing.....you have diabetes, you are already taxing the poor kidneys. Where does your back hurt at? Top near the shoulders? or at the waistband? Have you told these telephone answer'ers that you have a potential medical emergency going on here? This is not DRAMA..........


The first woman I talked to is a nurse, so she would have known what I was going through and the second woman was only the receptionist but I told them how concerned I was about things. I'm not on insulin but I am on pills for the diabetes, metformin is what its called ~ I'm thankful that I don't need insulin but I have to change things now or it may come to that if I'm not more careful. My back hurts near just above the rear end, I know alot of that is the fat around My middle is what's straining My back. I'm drinking more water and the swelling is starting to go down; its a start but I still have a long way to go ~ the changes that I'm making today are only just the beginning!!!!

[Thinker]

Per Angie's request yesterday... This is what I have had so far today.

Coffee - 1 pt.
V8 - 1 pt.
Whey protein shake w/strawberries & banana - 3 pts.
Greek yogurt (plain, non-fat) w/blueberries & Special K granola - 4 pts.

Brown rice w/non-fat refried beans & spicy diced tomatoes - 7 pts.

...and about 24 ounces of water

Let me tell you about my rice and beans. I use the Success brown rice bags and a can of whatever beans.......for me, usually black beans (low-sodium, rinsed off) or Rosarita non-fat refried beans. I like pinto beans w/jalapenos too!

I mix in 1/2 can of some sort of spicy diced tomatoes and heat the beans.

I put half of the cooked rice in a bowl and put half of the beans in with it. This makes two good-sized bowls, so I save one for the next day.

Aside from the fiber and protein benefits, it's a VERY filling dish for when you want to feel full but don't want a whole meal or don't feel like preparing food.

I've also had it in smaller portions as a side dish with grilled chicken breasts and some sort of green veggie.

[Dominique]

[QUOTE=Matthew;399832]The first woman I talked to is a nurse, so she would have known what I was going through and the second woman was only the receptionist but I told them how concerned I was about things.QUOTE]


Well, that makes me feel better that you at least spoke with a nurse. Hey Mathew....what goes in, must come out......and not the color of coke-a -cola.....too much water may not be good either....if you are retaining fluid. Well your kidneys are where your waist band is......and you've been mentioning back pain for several days. Salt, hidden salts like sodium (gatorade) those are no good for heart patients. UUUGH, I wish I'd see the words I'm going to the Dr!

[Queerasfck]

E and I had such a busy weekend that we didn't get to our normal food-shopping!

I work a few hours longer today so E's going to stop after work and get us some things that are our basics, for me those include

chocolate soy (for my coffee every morning in lieu of cream)
low fat cottage cheese (from costco, I usually go through a big container in about 10 days!)
a variety of fruits (E doesn't do melon besides watermelon but I like all kinds)
a variety of vegetables


My everyday cereal is Special K red berries (lower points than Go Lean Kashi)

........................

I've been a bad tracker and have been losing weight with only mild success because I haven't stuck with the plan 100%--I am about at 50% some days I am at 10% on plan. So, I am down 12 lbs and would love to see that 15 lb weight loss (and get another gold star!!!!!!) but I am coasting and each time I brace myself at the scale, thinking that I am going to gain, I am down .8 or .12 of a pound and feel like I've really got one over on someone or dodged a bullet. Which sounds silly because I am not in a race, but *fat*, while can be chocked full of wholesome goodness--I find that mine is chocked full of a range of highly-charged emotions and a part of the stage for my personal, human drama and I appear to be committed to clinging to every pound that I am trying to lose in ways that I don't yet fully accept or recognize.

So, how do you let go of a part of you that you have spent so long identifying with?

WORD. My answer is: I don't know yet.

The fat girl in me is beloved. On purpose and with vigor. Politically and emotionally. Because I've worked at it for years and because it is a sign that I reject the negativity, body hatred, sexism, beauty-ism, and bag of your basic "fucked up shit" that our Mothers and Fathers and the World has handed to us.

She is proof that I am strong. To be fat in this world requires that. She is proof that I have and will continue to survive. That I reject all of that fuckery.

It is a little unnerving to me that a smaller body will have such huge meaning for me and how I move in the world. I am apprehensive about people violating my personal space. I am apprehensive about receiving more unwanted attention than I already get. I am apprehensive about being more visible.

I feel safe in my fat body. Insulated. Strong. Unrepentant. Audacious. I don't want to stop feeling that way. So I'll have to do more work when I thought my "work" here was done. After all, I climbed the mountain of body shame and staked my blinding pink flag at the top and flipped the giant bird out across the horizon. A big ass "fuck you" to what I had to climb over and through to get there. And now? Im looking out over that valley and seeing more scary work ahead. Harder work maybe. And I'm hearing the echoes of "You'll never be acceptable no matter what size you are".

I am finding it a huge battle to let go of my control issues with food.
My personal stuff centers around not having control for a long time and gaining control by being able to choose (with reckless abandon) what I put in my piehole. Being out of control is being IN control for me.

And now, I feel like I have to give that control over to the part of me who wants to be more conscious, who wants to drive the bus for awhile, who says that being an eating machine is no longer acceptable.
Adult me is telling baby me that it's time to wave goodbye now.

I think I'll still be here when I'm smaller. (not in the thread, but here, in this body) The me who did the work. The me who identified with the fat and made it her own.
The reality is that the work I did is not going to just go away because my ass is smaller. I'll still need to reconnect with my body, I'll just have better tools to do it.

These posts are Amaze Sauce!!!!!

[Gentle Tiger]

I almost forgot 'till just now...

Yesterday, I was wearing a pair of capri pants that have been getting pretty baggy. So, I channeled Medusa's mojo **smile** and was able to pull my pants off & on WITHOUT unbuttoning or unzipping them! WOOHOO!

Guess what, 2nd pair of pants ~ did it again today :)

You Go Girl!

PinkieLee Rocks!

[Gentle Tiger]

These posts are Amaze Sauce!!!!!

~~~~Ditto~~~~

[Zimmeh]

Your rice and beans sound delicious!

Thank you for sharing!

Zimmy

Per Angie's request yesterday... This is what I have had so far today.

Coffee - 1 pt.
V8 - 1 pt.
Whey protein shake w/strawberries & banana - 3 pts.
Greek yogurt (plain, non-fat) w/blueberries & Special K granola - 4 pts.

Brown rice w/non-fat refried beans & spicy diced tomatoes - 7 pts.

...and about 24 ounces of water

Let me tell you about my rice and beans. I use the Success brown rice bags and a can of whatever beans.......for me, usually black beans (low-sodium, rinsed off) or Rosarita non-fat refried beans. I like pinto beans w/jalapenos too!

I mix in 1/2 can of some sort of spicy diced tomatoes and heat the beans.

I put half of the cooked rice in a bowl and put half of the beans in with it. This makes two good-sized bowls, so I save one for the next day.

Aside from the fiber and protein benefits, it's a VERY filling dish for when you want to feel full but don't want a whole meal or don't feel like preparing food.

I've also had it in smaller portions as a side dish with grilled chicken breasts and some sort of green veggie.

[Zimmeh]

Good Afternoon Everyone,

I had a 6oz cup of Chobani blueberry Greek Yogurt with an 8oz cup of chocolate soymilk and two cups of coffee with three tablespoons of creamer

Lunch was tuna fish with oregano, crushed red pepper, olive oil mayo and shredded low fat cheese on toasted bread

Dinner is undecided!

Zimmy

[Leigh]

Believe Me Yellow, if I don't hear back from that one female doctor very shortly I'm calling her back, I'll hound them if I have to ~ I know how important this is, and I wanna get this sorted out even more than I can say. My parents don't get off work for another 2 hrs .......... I'm hoping I can get ahold of a doctor ASAP as I'm also getting ansty and want to know what the hell is up! If I didn't have to watch My sister I'd have been out the door long time ago to try and get into a walk in clinic; unfortunately with them having a bunch of weddings coming up in the next week or so (they own a floral shop), and Me being the only one available to watch her, I'm kinda stuck .........

However, I promise all of you that the moment I can get in to see the doctor I will be gone ~ this is definately serious and I'm as worried as everyone else is, the moment I know more I'll keep everyone updated !!!!!!!!!!!!

[Zimmeh]

Dinner tonight is: grilled chicken tenderloins with boiled rice, fresh cut green pepper, lettuce, corn and a sprinkle of cheese on a flour tortilla. I seasoned the chicken with garlic salt and fresh ground black pepper.

It is delicious!

Zimmy

[sweetfemme247]

thought I would let every know matthew is going to ethier the urgent care or walk in clinic in 30 mins.

[Leigh]

thought I would let every know matthew is going to ethier the urgent care or walk in clinic in 30 mins.


Sneaky beat Me to it lol but I'm glad she did ~ I just came in to give a basic entire rundown of what happened cuz I did promise to keep everyone updated:

That other doctor never called Me back so I called her, and apparently because My file was inactive she was not able to squeeze Me in until September even with everything I told her about being diabetic and the state of how swollen My legs and feet are. She directed Me to call Health Links which I've called before; its a 24/7 telephone answering service staffed by registered nurses who will answer any/all heath related questions in order to guide you to the care you need. The woman I talked to, who was extremely nice, asked Me alot of questions and stuff to rule things out.

She asked Me about any shortness of breath (unusual) and I said no; she asked about any kind of a cough especially one that keeps you up at night but no I've had no cough; then she asks about any heart conditions or chest pains and I said no cuz I honestly haven't had any. I told her about the swelling, the tightness and the bit of difficulty I have walking which did concern her but she could tell I was kinda freaking out and told Me not to. Her advice was to go to a place called Misercordia, which used to be a major hospital in My city but its now for walk in urgent care ~ not emergencies but urgent. She said it could be as simple as just needing a diuretic/water pills or it could be somethin to do with the kidneys but there is no way to know for sure.

My parents should be home within 20-30 mins or so and I am going to tell them exactly what the doctor said, and I don't care if I have to take a cab or a bus I'm going ............. this is urgent and I'm not just gonna sit around and not do anything about it. I will make sure to keep sweetfemme informed and updated on everything that happens tonight so she can keep everyone here upto date on exactly what the doctors say. I'm pretty nervous and kinda freaking out abit but I'm trying to relax abit before I go ~ I'm sure I'll be fine just nervous is all :praying:

[Lizzy]

I go to a WW Meeting every Sat. AM at 6:30. They have a new points calculator and a new ponts system that started this year...UGH..

My Doc told me I was borderline diabetic about 6 months ago. My cholesterol was high, along with my BP..and my thyroid was wacky.

She said you must have beans, legumes, veggie's and fruits in the house. You must quit using Drive-Thrus as your food groups, and you must exercise.

I BEGAN eating organic fruits and veggies, veggie soups , regularly and quit eating meat, bread and dessert. I eat fish more often. My lab results last month were dramatically improved, plus I had a healthy weight loss, and feel great.

It will be an amazing year, and I am dedicated to either growing to 8 feet tall, or losing weight, feeling better, and having my bloodwork and BP results be great. Tired of being undertall for my weight.:)

I struggle, but am surviving and thriving. I am a NON-Cook, so, steaming veggies and making veggie soup is easy. After dinner was hardest-because chocolate or sweets call to me. My solution was not to buy, or allow bad stuff in my house. Holidays and Birthdays are exempt, and looked at as an okay time to have single portions of bad stuff I can't leave in the cupboards or fridge. I have air popped popcorn, without anything, and that does the trick.

Jacuzzi and pool in the morning, and walking the 2 flights of stairs at work instead of the elevators has helped.

When I NOW grocery shop, I take the extra steps and return the shopping cart to the rack at the store. Every step is helping. Oh..and my buddy bought me a new pedometer for Christmas.

Okay. subscribing and thriving, with a LOoooooonnnnng way to go.


Dieting is so hard and to have thyroid problems on top of it all makes it even harder!!My thyroid has been giving me troubles over the years, and it has made me seriously ill a few times in the begining until I was able to get it somewhat under control.
I will admit all though my thyroid makes it harder it isn't my biggest problem when it comes to my weight it is the horror munchies I get at night.I behave so well all day at work, I make a healthy dinner and then around 9:15 I am thinking of a snack.I try not to keep any sweets in the house but it doesn't stop me.I turn into a contestant on Iron Chef and I will find a way to make something out of nothing.Oh and the weight watchers desserts or skinny cow ice creams taste so good but I am pretty sure your only supposed to eat one at a time......
Then there is the whole exercise thing......I do good for a month or so and then the excuses start. I am tired when I get home after caring for 12 3yr olds all day long, but I know better.The more you work out, the more energy you have.So I have decided that now that my kids are back in school I am going to try and refocus on my health and get back into better shape.:praying:

[Lizzy]

Sneaky beat Me to it lol but I'm glad she did ~ I just came in to give a basic entire rundown of what happened cuz I did promise to keep everyone updated:

That other doctor never called Me back so I called her, and apparently because My file was inactive she was not able to squeeze Me in until September even with everything I told her about being diabetic and the state of how swollen My legs and feet are. She directed Me to call Health Links which I've called before; its a 24/7 telephone answering service staffed by registered nurses who will answer any/all heath related questions in order to guide you to the care you need. The woman I talked to, who was extremely nice, asked Me alot of questions and stuff to rule things out.

She asked Me about any shortness of breath (unusual) and I said no; she asked about any kind of a cough especially one that keeps you up at night but no I've had no cough; then she asks about any heart conditions or chest pains and I said no cuz I honestly haven't had any. I told her about the swelling, the tightness and the bit of difficulty I have walking which did concern her but she could tell I was kinda freaking out and told Me not to. Her advice was to go to a place called Misercordia, which used to be a major hospital in My city but its now for walk in urgent care ~ not emergencies but urgent. She said it could be as simple as just needing a diuretic/water pills or it could be somethin to do with the kidneys but there is no way to know for sure.

My parents should be home within 20-30 mins or so and I am going to tell them exactly what the doctor said, and I don't care if I have to take a cab or a bus I'm going ............. this is urgent and I'm not just gonna sit around and not do anything about it. I will make sure to keep sweetfemme informed and updated on everything that happens tonight so she can keep everyone here upto date on exactly what the doctors say. I'm pretty nervous and kinda freaking out abit but I'm trying to relax abit before I go ~ I'm sure I'll be fine just nervous is all :praying:


I have had some problems with my ankles swelling in the past and everytime it happend I got really scared.It wound up being connected to my thyroid but it was hard to figure out the root of the problem at first as many times it was in the summer after I had been out in the sun for a prolonged period of time.I would also get nausous and really dizzy with a lot of joint pain,muscle pain and stiffness and my ankles and sometimes my fingers would swell up pretty bad.I have an auto immune disorder called Hashimotos's.My body percieves my thyroid gland as an invader and it constantly attacks it so I will be on meds for the rest of my life and I have to be carefull about not having to much sun and I am sensative to the altitude as well.You should ask your doctor(if they haven't already ruled it out)to check your thyroid as some of your symptoms can be related to that.Just a thought.I hope you are feeling better soon.:praying:

[little_ms_sunshyne]

Sorry,Everyone! Tryin to keep up but school has started up again and I am beat! Still doin some reading here, but wanted to check in. Been keepin up even at work...its hard! Teachers love food! No loss last week but since started at school I have been told that I look great which made me really smile all day long! Its the little things!

Also, Matthew sending postive thoughts in your direction! Keep us posted.

Back to catching up....oh and Welcome Lizzy :)

[sweetfemme247]

just a update for everyone about matthew,

he is at urgent care waiting to be seen, it could be awhile since there is a few people ahead of him.

[Medusa]

(Ezee and apretty, close your eyes)

Went to Sam's this afternoon and picked up a huge bag of Fuji's, a flat of grapefruits, 3 lbs of bananas, a giant box of my favorite (but very farty) Fiber One bars, a cantaloupe, some bagel thins, and baby spinach.

$29 total and this is enough food to supplement 2 weeks worth of yumminess. :)

[Kelt]

Howdy,

Well, I was talking with one of you the other day about my calorie balance and while I was able to be very accurate on the calories in, I had to admit that my calories expended numbers were a bit subjective. I use the “activity tracker” area on my fitday.com but have to admit that walking 3.5mph uphill for x hours is highly suspect even though it uses my age, height and weight to calculate. For this to be correct it really needs much more accurate input. So, why care about this, close enough right? First off I am a self confessed analytical data junkie, and frankly when I had over 50% of my total body weight to lose all I really needed to know was; does it produce the results that I want?. I’m getting a bit closer now and have 30-35lbs left to lose and the margin for error is getting a bit tighter.

What better excuse to buy a new toy?!? :dance2:

I’m ordering a Fitbit (http://www.fitbit.com/product/features) to play with just so I can go a little further over the edge. Pretty much a pedometer on steroids. One of the many things I have been tracking all along is the amount of sleep I get each night and this will track my activity and waking during the night in addition to an accurate expenditure calculator.

The other motivation for me is just plain garden variety fear. While I am confident that I will lose the rest of the weight given some time; the prospect of “maintaining’ looms large on the horizon. I have been testing things all along the way and think I know how to handle it, but I’m also sure reality will be different than theory. I hope this will give me another crunch the numbers tool in my arsenal. If nothing else it will be fun to play with.

:balloon:

[sweetfemme247]

another update he is being seen now, updates to follow

[Lizzy]

Howdy,

Well, I was talking with one of you the other day about my calorie balance and while I was able to be very accurate on the calories in, I had to admit that my calories expended numbers were a bit subjective. I use the “activity tracker” area on my fitday.com but have to admit that walking 3.5mph uphill for x hours is highly suspect even though it uses my age, height and weight to calculate. For this to be correct it really needs much more accurate input. So, why care about this, close enough right? First off I am a self confessed analytical data junkie, and frankly when I had over 50% of my total body weight to lose all I really needed to know was; does it produce the results that I want?. I’m getting a bit closer now and have 30-35lbs left to lose and the margin for error is getting a bit tighter.

What better excuse to buy a new toy?!? :dance2:

I’m ordering a Fitbit (http://www.fitbit.com/product/features) to play with just so I can go a little further over the edge. Pretty much a pedometer on steroids. One of the many things I have been tracking all along is the amount of sleep I get each night and this will track my activity and waking during the night in addition to an accurate expenditure calculator.

The other motivation for me is just plain garden variety fear. While I am confident that I will lose the rest of the weight given some time; the prospect of “maintaining’ looms large on the horizon. I have been testing things all along the way and think I know how to handle it, but I’m also sure reality will be different than theory. I hope this will give me another crunch the numbers tool in my arsenal. If nothing else it will be fun to play with.

:balloon:

I am interested to see how you like your fitbit.I have not one but three pedometers.One in my nightstand,one in my car and one at work.The only problem is I can never remember to use a single one of them...... :|

[Leigh]

I have had some problems with my ankles swelling in the past and everytime it happend I got really scared.It wound up being connected to my thyroid but it was hard to figure out the root of the problem at first as many times it was in the summer after I had been out in the sun for a prolonged period of time.I would also get nausous and really dizzy with a lot of joint pain,muscle pain and stiffness and my ankles and sometimes my fingers would swell up pretty bad.I have an auto immune disorder called Hashimotos's.My body percieves my thyroid gland as an invader and it constantly attacks it so I will be on meds for the rest of my life and I have to be carefull about not having to much sun and I am sensative to the altitude as well.You should ask your doctor(if they haven't already ruled it out)to check your thyroid as some of your symptoms can be related to that.Just a thought.I hope you are feeling better soon.:praying:

I have been tested a few times in the past when it came to My thyroid, and it never seemed to be the problem. I know what My problems are, alot of it stems from My depression but it also stems from two other things ~ being teased and tormened in school growing up, and the mental/emotional abuse that I've endured at the hands of My father. That always caused Me to eat, food was always My comfort and it was like no one knew Me better than food did ~ and now looking back at it, its gotten Me to a point where I've let it get *WAY* too friggin far out of control. I may ask for another thyroid test next time I see My doctor, but for now I am going to work on losing weight and combatting My depression in healthy ways like exercising and such. I am feeling abit better tonight, thank you for asking ~ welcome to the thread, I know that you will meet SO many wonderful people :-)

Also, Matthew sending postive thoughts in your direction! Keep us posted.

Thank you for the positive thoughts Sunshyne, it was a trying time for Me today with not knowing what was happening but atleast I know now that its not serious but I *HAVE* to lose weight there is no ifs ands or buts about it :canadian:

just a update for everyone about matthew,

he is at urgent care waiting to be seen, it could be awhile since there is a few people ahead of him.

I really have to take a few minutes to thank sweetfemme for keeping in touch with Me the entire night, and for keeping everyone updated as best as she knew how. In many ways tonight she kept Me sane through this whole ordeal, knowing how nervous and scared I was she stuck by Me and it really helped a whole lot knowing she was texting Me and helping Me out ~ thank you hun for everything you've done for Me, your amazing and I'd be lost without having you as a part of My life ............ I'm definately blessed :rrose:

For the update: I spent 2 1/2 hours in the waiting room and then got called in at 11:30 central time, waited like another half an hour and the male doctor that came in was in and out in like two minutes. Basically what he called it was a permanent adema I think was his exact wording; basically because I'm really overweight the veins in My legs and feet are being squished which is whats causing the swelling. His words were pretty much all I can do is take a diuretic to help with the water retention and lose weight ~ thats basically what it boils down to but yes the weight must GO!!!!

I know I can count on all of My friends here to help Me lose the weight ~ I can, and I *WILL* do this :-)

[Lizzy]

I can not stand doctors with no bed side manners.How insensative.When I was pregnant with my second son I had the worst craving for ice cold coke in the red can....it had to be in the can.Needless to say I gained a little more than just baby weight.On one of my visits to the Doctor my primary Doctor was not there and this older doctor saw me instead.He looks at my chart and then my weight and he just went off on me, he said I was much too petite to weigh so much.He told me I needed to move more and eat less.I needed to control myself.He walks me to the lobby and says nice and loud for everyone to hear..."Stop Snickerdoodeling or you will be on bedrest"....I was so embarresed and over a decade later I still remember him to this day.That Doctor needed to remember you went to urgent care because you were scared and concerned for your well being.Treating you as a whole person would have been kind.How do they think spending just a few minutes they have a definitive answer.I can relate to using food for comfort, it has been my "drug" of choice for years.My mother is an emotional eater as well.Medicating with food to relax and let go of her worries.I use to go to Weight Watchers and one of my leaders told us this story,she said her son who was about 4 was riding his bike and he fell and skinned his knee.He came running into the house crying his eyes out.Even after cleaning him up and giving him a bandaid he was still crying.So she gets him a cookie and says"here this will make you feel better"so what does he do.....he puts the cookie on his knee with this confused look on his face wondering why this cookie will help him.I often think of this story when I begin to eat because I am stressed out or upset and I am usually able to reign myself in.The emotional element of my weight problem is the biggest issue for me.I don't overeat because I am hungry or I don't know how to eat properly.I am hoping talking to other people and getting some new ideas will help so I can stay on track.I wish you the best and I hope your feeling better soon.

[Lizzy]

Sweet thank you for the signature pic.I am horrible with technical stuff.

[sweetfemme247]

glad I could help you dear

[Inked_Trinity]

GOOD LORD! Had a new instructor for a conditioning class last night...... I don't think he realizes that us old bastards just don't bend that way anymore! Don't get me wrong, it was a fantastic workout. But a few times I had to look at him and ask .....Are you friggin serious ?????? ( note to self... don't take the class from the Muay Thai fighter )

[sylvie]

i haven't had a weigh in this week, but i soooo want one...
Realistically, i've lost an amount of weight, but not because i've been eating healthy, mostly because i hadn't eaten much period... i had oral surgery last Monday, and of course the first few days i barely ate, and then my appetite diminished.. SO, working on building that back up, though i LOVE having no appetite, lol..it's not the healthy way to go about this.. SO, while doing so, scared i'll gain a few lbs back and don't want that disappointment..(i know i would obsess it, lots)

But ohhhh, sooooo want to weigh in, my clothes feel looser, and 'that' feels great.. But, i am getting back on track, forcing myself to eat and forcing myself to drink (i wasnt even drinking much sadly)..

SO, will report my updated weight loss next week!

[Dominique]

http://www.medicinenet.com/edema/article.htm

Hi Mathew.

The internet is a wonderful tool.

Glad you saw a Dr. yesterday. I hate that the Dr. was dismissive. Now it's up to you to educate yourself as it's *Not just edema*

Here's hoping you stay motivated to do the right things!

I made brown rice, refried beans and hot tomato's for lunch.......just sayin!

[JustJo]

Good morning everyone :)

Matthew I'm glad you went in and were seen....I'm very frustrated with how you were treated though and the flippant response with no testing. Yikes.

So...again, one diabetic to another, you really really really need a good primary care doctor (or endocrinologist) to make sure that you have all the tests you need on a regular basis to manage your diabetes. Look at me....2 months late on my A1c test and advising Matthew....hmmmm.....obviously, it's tough enough to manage even with a good doctor...like the nice butch I have who is going to lecture me and give me that look...again...when I finally get my test done and get in there.

If you're only on metformin, chances are that your diabetes is not too advanced....or you're getting crappo treatment....and it's impossible for any of us to say which is which.

Like I said, I'm not a doctor or a nurse....I'm just a squeamish, struggling to be compliant diabetic. But I do know that you should be having quarterly blood tests that measure A1c, cholesterol, triglycerides, and kidney and liver function. You should also be seen annually by an opthamologist specializing in diabetes to keep an eye on your vision, and a podiatrist who treats diabetic patients to keep an eye on your feet.

That's the minimum of good care as I understand it as a patient.

I definitely am not trying to scare you. I just want to make sure that you get the care you need to keep you healthy and safe.

I totally and completely applaud your resolve to lose weight and be healthier. It's not easy...as all of us here can attest to...especially when you don't have support at home and lots of emotional stuff attached to food...but it's so, so important...especially for those of us who are diabetic.

I'm in your corner Matthew....keep pushing for the good care you deserve....and treat yourself with love and support as you start this journey. We're all here for you! :gimmehug:

:rrose:

And....welcome to the thread Lizzy :)

Your skinned knee/cookie post made me shake my head and laugh to myself....can't tell you how many times I used food to soothe after injury, neglect, pain, sadness.....and can't tell you when it started...so chances are it was very young, and at the hands of others.

I'm still unlearning it.

I'm a craving snacks late at night person too....my new strategy for dealing with that generally involves going to bed! :cheesy: It works, because I can't eat while I'm sleeping....and I know more sleep helps me be healthier too.

[JustJo]

I knew that not getting enough sleep could make us more likely to reach for sugary stuff, caffeine or other comfort foods.....but there's actually a hormone issue that causes weight gain as well!

Check this out...

Sleep and Weight Gain - Will better sleep help you avoid extra pounds?
By Denise Mann

Think about it: If you’re feeling sleepy at work, you may be tempted to reach for a cup of coffee (or several cups) and a doughnut for a quick shot of energy. Later you may skip the gym and pick up takeout on your way home to your family -- no time to cook. When you finally find yourself back in your bed, you are too wound up to sleep.

It’s a vicious cycle, and eventually this sleep deprivation can sabotage your waistline and your health.

It starts out innocently enough. “When you have sleep deprivation and are running on low energy, you automatically go for a bag of potato chips or other comfort foods,” saysSusan Zafarlotfi, PhD, clinical director of the Institute for Sleep and Wake Disorders at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey.

The immediate result? You may be able to fight off sleepiness. The ultimate result? Unwanted pounds as poor food choices coupled with lack of exercise set the stage for obesity and further sleep loss.

“Sleep debt is like credit card debt,” Zafarlotfi says. “If you keep accumulating credit card debt, you will pay high interest rates or your account will be shut down until you pay it all off. If you accumulate too much sleep debt, your body will crash.”

Not getting enough sleep is common -- even talked about with pride -- in the U.S. “We brag about an all-nighter, but we do pay a price for staying up late and getting up early,” says Mark Mahowald, MD, director of the Minnesota Regional Sleep Disorders Center in Hennepin County.

Understanding the Sleep-Diet Connection

The sleep-diet connection is regular fodder for diet books and magazine articles. Maybe you have even heard about the sleep diet, which suggests you can lose weight while you catch your ZZZs.

And it’s true, sort of.

“It’s not so much that if you sleep, you will lose weight, but if you are sleep-deprived, meaning that you are not getting enough minutes of sleep or good quality sleep, your metabolism will not function properly,” explains Michael Breus, PhD, author of Beauty Sleepand the clinical director of the sleep division for Arrowhead Health in Glendale, Ariz.

On average, we need about 7.5 hours of quality sleep per night, he says. “If you are getting this already, another half hour will not help you lose 10 pounds, but if you are a five-hour sleeper and start to sleep for seven hours a night, you will start dropping weight.”

Exactly how lack of sleep affects our ability to lose weight has a lot to do with our nightly hormones, explains Breus.

The two hormones that are key in this process are ghrelin and leptin. “Ghrelin is the ‘go’ hormone that tells you when to eat, and when you are sleep-deprived, you have more ghrelin,” Breus says. “Leptin is the hormone that tells you to stop eating, and when you are sleep deprived, you have less leptin.”

More ghrelin plus less leptin equals weight gain.

“You are eating more, plus your metabolism is slower when you are sleep-deprived,” Breus says.

The Sleep-Weight Loss Solution - So what can you do about sleep deprivation?

A lot, says Breus. First, look at how much you sleep vs. how well you sleep. “Some people such as new moms may only get to sleep for a four-hour stretch. And there are some people who get 7.5 hours of sleep that is poor quality because of pain or an underlying sleep disorder, and this has the same effect as if they got less sleep,” he says.

Trouble-shoot both with improved sleep hygiene, he says.

For starters, avoid any caffeine in the afternoon because it will keep you in the lighter stages of sleep -- which are associated with poor sleep -- at night. Breus recommends only decaf from 2 p.m. on. Exercise also helps improve sleep quality. How soon before bed should you exercise? It depends -- everyone is different. It’s more important that you exercise than it is when you exercise. Breus says to be safe, don’t exercise right before going to bed. “But some people exercise better before bed and it doesn’t affect their sleep,” he says.

Watch what you eat before bedtime. “Pizza and beer before bedtime is not a good idea,” says Breus. “Neither is eating a big meal close to bedtime.” He suggests eating a few healthy snacks and then having a light meal -- like a bowl of cereal -- if you’re running close to bedtime. Heavy, rich meals before bed can also increase risk of heartburn, which will certainly keep you up all night.

What if you are getting enough hours of sleep but wake up and feel sleepy the next day? “Talk to your doctor about seeing a sleep specialist,” Breus says. After conducting a thorough evaluation and sleep study, in which you are monitored while sleeping, the sleep specialist can help identify any underlying problem. Together you can develop a treatment plan so that you get more high-quality sleep -- and maybe even slim down.

SOURCES:

Susan Zafarlotfi, PhD, clinical director, Institute for Sleep and Wake Disorders, Hackensack University Medical Center, New Jersey.

Michael Breus, PhD, clinical director, sleep division, Arrowhead Health, Glendale, Ariz.; author, Beauty Sleep.

Mark Mahowald, MD, director , Minnesota Regional Sleep Disorders Center, Hennepin County.

Taheri, S. PLoS Medicine; December 2004, vol 1: pp 210-216.

Reviewed on January 19, 2010
© 2010 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

[Scorp]

Hi Folks,

I'm kicking off the morning with another vanilla yogurt parfait...Seems to be my favorite morning breakfast these days....

Hope everyone gets through the day ok!

P.S. Yesterday I made it through the day/night without having a cigarette and to be honest, I'm not missing it! :)

Best,

Scorp

[JustJo]

P.S. Yesterday I made it through the day/night without having a cigarette and to be honest, I'm not missing it! :)

Best,

Scorp

Woo Hoo! That's fantastic! :cheer:

[Zimmeh]

Thank you for sharing that website link, Yellow. I didn't realize, I had what is called, pitted edema in my ankles. It stems from when I was hit by a car at the age of 15 and it nearly broke my legs.

Have a great day!

Zimmy

http://www.medicinenet.com/edema/article.htm

Hi Mathew.

The internet is a wonderful tool.

Glad you saw a Dr. yesterday. I hate that the Dr. was dismissive. Now it's up to you to educate yourself as it's *Not just edema*

Here's hoping you stay motivated to do the right things!

I made brown rice, refried beans and hot tomato's for lunch.......just sayin!

[Zimmeh]

Keep up the good work!

Zimmy

Hi Folks,

I'm kicking off the morning with another vanilla yogurt parfait...Seems to be my favorite morning breakfast these days....

Hope everyone gets through the day ok!

P.S. Yesterday I made it through the day/night without having a cigarette and to be honest, I'm not missing it! :)

Best,

Scorp

[Zimmeh]

I have found that if I exercise my butt off, I sleep like a baby...Thank you for sharing this article.

Zimmy

I knew that not getting enough sleep could make us more likely to reach for sugary stuff, caffeine or other comfort foods.....but there's actually a hormone issue that causes weight gain as well!

Check this out...

Sleep and Weight Gain - Will better sleep help you avoid extra pounds?
By Denise Mann

Think about it: If you’re feeling sleepy at work, you may be tempted to reach for a cup of coffee (or several cups) and a doughnut for a quick shot of energy. Later you may skip the gym and pick up takeout on your way home to your family -- no time to cook. When you finally find yourself back in your bed, you are too wound up to sleep.

It’s a vicious cycle, and eventually this sleep deprivation can sabotage your waistline and your health.

It starts out innocently enough. “When you have sleep deprivation and are running on low energy, you automatically go for a bag of potato chips or other comfort foods,” saysSusan Zafarlotfi, PhD, clinical director of the Institute for Sleep and Wake Disorders at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey.

The immediate result? You may be able to fight off sleepiness. The ultimate result? Unwanted pounds as poor food choices coupled with lack of exercise set the stage for obesity and further sleep loss.

“Sleep debt is like credit card debt,” Zafarlotfi says. “If you keep accumulating credit card debt, you will pay high interest rates or your account will be shut down until you pay it all off. If you accumulate too much sleep debt, your body will crash.”

Not getting enough sleep is common -- even talked about with pride -- in the U.S. “We brag about an all-nighter, but we do pay a price for staying up late and getting up early,” says Mark Mahowald, MD, director of the Minnesota Regional Sleep Disorders Center in Hennepin County.

Understanding the Sleep-Diet Connection

The sleep-diet connection is regular fodder for diet books and magazine articles. Maybe you have even heard about the sleep diet, which suggests you can lose weight while you catch your ZZZs.

And it’s true, sort of.

“It’s not so much that if you sleep, you will lose weight, but if you are sleep-deprived, meaning that you are not getting enough minutes of sleep or good quality sleep, your metabolism will not function properly,” explains Michael Breus, PhD, author of Beauty Sleepand the clinical director of the sleep division for Arrowhead Health in Glendale, Ariz.

On average, we need about 7.5 hours of quality sleep per night, he says. “If you are getting this already, another half hour will not help you lose 10 pounds, but if you are a five-hour sleeper and start to sleep for seven hours a night, you will start dropping weight.”

Exactly how lack of sleep affects our ability to lose weight has a lot to do with our nightly hormones, explains Breus.

The two hormones that are key in this process are ghrelin and leptin. “Ghrelin is the ‘go’ hormone that tells you when to eat, and when you are sleep-deprived, you have more ghrelin,” Breus says. “Leptin is the hormone that tells you to stop eating, and when you are sleep deprived, you have less leptin.”

More ghrelin plus less leptin equals weight gain.

“You are eating more, plus your metabolism is slower when you are sleep-deprived,” Breus says.

The Sleep-Weight Loss Solution - So what can you do about sleep deprivation?

A lot, says Breus. First, look at how much you sleep vs. how well you sleep. “Some people such as new moms may only get to sleep for a four-hour stretch. And there are some people who get 7.5 hours of sleep that is poor quality because of pain or an underlying sleep disorder, and this has the same effect as if they got less sleep,” he says.

Trouble-shoot both with improved sleep hygiene, he says.

For starters, avoid any caffeine in the afternoon because it will keep you in the lighter stages of sleep -- which are associated with poor sleep -- at night. Breus recommends only decaf from 2 p.m. on. Exercise also helps improve sleep quality. How soon before bed should you exercise? It depends -- everyone is different. It’s more important that you exercise than it is when you exercise. Breus says to be safe, don’t exercise right before going to bed. “But some people exercise better before bed and it doesn’t affect their sleep,” he says.

Watch what you eat before bedtime. “Pizza and beer before bedtime is not a good idea,” says Breus. “Neither is eating a big meal close to bedtime.” He suggests eating a few healthy snacks and then having a light meal -- like a bowl of cereal -- if you’re running close to bedtime. Heavy, rich meals before bed can also increase risk of heartburn, which will certainly keep you up all night.

What if you are getting enough hours of sleep but wake up and feel sleepy the next day? “Talk to your doctor about seeing a sleep specialist,” Breus says. After conducting a thorough evaluation and sleep study, in which you are monitored while sleeping, the sleep specialist can help identify any underlying problem. Together you can develop a treatment plan so that you get more high-quality sleep -- and maybe even slim down.

SOURCES:

Susan Zafarlotfi, PhD, clinical director, Institute for Sleep and Wake Disorders, Hackensack University Medical Center, New Jersey.

Michael Breus, PhD, clinical director, sleep division, Arrowhead Health, Glendale, Ariz.; author, Beauty Sleep.

Mark Mahowald, MD, director , Minnesota Regional Sleep Disorders Center, Hennepin County.

Taheri, S. PLoS Medicine; December 2004, vol 1: pp 210-216.

Reviewed on January 19, 2010
© 2010 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

[scootebaby]

Well this is my first post. I usually just stalk Jo and read a couple posts here and there. She also keeps me up to date on things. Ive been complaining about needing to lose weight because ive put on a few lbs since being off work for my back injury. Anyway i had to fast over the weekend,plus drink a JUG of icky stuff to clean myself out. The outcome indicated i needed more fiber and better eating habits. Jo bought me some raw veggies,and fiber one sweet stuff(which are freaking awesome btw) granted its only been 4 days(this is 5th day) but i have dropped 4lbs(most of it from fasting and cleansing but still). im hoping to keep on this trend. My problem is if i make it an obvious,gotta do thing then i wont do it,so i kinda let Jo lead the way and help me do it the healthy way!

:)

[Zimmeh]

The Fiber One bars are great at helping kick a sweet craving. My favorite one is the Oats and chocolate. My roommate loves their 90 calorie bars. When I get my own desk soon, I will be keeping a box of them at work. Now she needs to start nudging you to give up soda...

Congrats and keep up the good work!

Zimmy

Well this is my first post. I usually just stalk Jo and read a couple posts here and there. She also keeps me up to date on things. Ive been complaining about needing to lose weight because ive put on a few lbs since being off work for my back injury. Anyway i had to fast over the weekend,plus drink a JUG of icky stuff to clean myself out. The outcome indicated i needed more fiber and better eating habits. Jo bought me some raw veggies,and fiber one sweet stuff(which are freaking awesome btw) granted its only been 4 days(this is 5th day) but i have dropped 4lbs(most of it from fasting and cleansing but still). im hoping to keep on this trend. My problem is if i make it an obvious,gotta do thing then i wont do it,so i kinda let Jo lead the way and help me do it the healthy way!

:)

[Zimmeh]

Good Morning Sylvie,

Hope you get your appetite back and soon! Until then, try eating some pudding or jello and drink a lot of water.

How is your mouth feeling?

Have a good day,

Zimmy

i haven't had a weigh in this week, but i soooo want one...
Realistically, i've lost an amount of weight, but not because i've been eating healthy, mostly because i hadn't eaten much period... i had oral surgery last Monday, and of course the first few days i barely ate, and then my appetite diminished.. SO, working on building that back up, though i LOVE having no appetite, lol..it's not the healthy way to go about this.. SO, while doing so, scared i'll gain a few lbs back and don't want that disappointment..(i know i would obsess it, lots)

But ohhhh, sooooo want to weigh in, my clothes feel looser, and 'that' feels great.. But, i am getting back on track, forcing myself to eat and forcing myself to drink (i wasnt even drinking much sadly)..

SO, will report my updated weight loss next week!

[Inked_Trinity]

Well this is my first post. I usually just stalk Jo and read a couple posts here and there. She also keeps me up to date on things. Ive been complaining about needing to lose weight because ive put on a few lbs since being off work for my back injury. Anyway i had to fast over the weekend,plus drink a JUG of icky stuff to clean myself out. The outcome indicated i needed more fiber and better eating habits. Jo bought me some raw veggies,and fiber one sweet stuff(which are freaking awesome btw) granted its only been 4 days(this is 5th day) but i have dropped 4lbs(most of it from fasting and cleansing but still). im hoping to keep on this trend. My problem is if i make it an obvious,gotta do thing then i wont do it,so i kinda let Jo lead the way and help me do it the healthy way!

:)

Another good fiber product is Benefiber.... it mixes with just about anything and has NO taste.

[*Anya*]

Still hanging around 1500 cals per day.

Breakfast, the usual-oatmeal.

Lunch, I enjoy a lot. If u have a Trader Joes around u, the 5 Spice Chicken and Asian Style Noodle salad is awesome & filling. One container is 340 Cals, 8 gm of fat (12 with dressing)& it is good with just a tiny drop of dressing. (The noodles are rice noodles.) It has 22 grams of protein. Protein means I do not get hungry.

I try to keep anything I eat @ or under 10 grams of fat.

Have a great day!

Hugs,

[JustJo]

Another good fiber product is Benefiber.... it mixes with just about anything and has NO taste.

I love Benefiber! Scoote is a jello lover, so my first efforts at upping her fiber intake was to mix in 2 heaping tablespoons when I'm making her jello. She can't detect it at all, even though she knows it's in there....and it makes the jello a high fiber snack/treat.

My mother's side of the family, which my son Rooster takes after, has Crohn's disease and a host of other ailments related to the digestive tract....so I'm overly fixated on fiber and healthy bowels. (Sad, but true!)

A few years ago he was complaining of frequent stomach aches, had bad almost acidic breath and other early warning signs of digestive problems. We took him to the doctor and had some unpleasant tests done. The specialist said no damage (yet) but he's strongly predisposed to trouble....and recommended daily stool softeners and frequent use of Benefiber (in addition to more whole grains and veggies) until the pain was gone....then discontinue the stool softeners and keep on with the Benefiber for life. Rooster's pain stopped in a couple weeks....and he gets Benefiber every day as a precaution, even though he eats whole wheat bread and has always been a good veggie eater.

Benefiber can go in anything that isn't carbonated....so it's easy to stir some into coffee, tea, milk, juice, water....or cook and bake with it. I always put a few big tablespoons into meatloaf, or a little into baked goods (when I remember)...and you literally cannot tell it's there. :)

[Zimmeh]

Another good fiber product is the Fiber Choice pills. My roommate and I go to BJ's and we buy the biggest bottle of them. They are fruit flavored and are great. My roommate also takes Align with his benefiber.

Have a great day,

Zimmy

I love Benefiber! Scoote is a jello lover, so my first efforts at upping her fiber intake was to mix in 2 heaping tablespoons when I'm making her jello. She can't detect it at all, even though she knows it's in there....and it makes the jello a high fiber snack/treat.

My mother's side of the family, which my son Rooster takes after, has Crohn's disease and a host of other ailments related to the digestive tract....so I'm overly fixated on fiber and healthy bowels. (Sad, but true!)

A few years ago he was complaining of frequent stomach aches, had bad almost acidic breath and other early warning signs of digestive problems. We took him to the doctor and had some unpleasant tests done. The specialist said no damage (yet) but he's strongly predisposed to trouble....and recommended daily stool softeners and frequent use of Benefiber (in addition to more whole grains and veggies) until the pain was gone....then discontinue the stool softeners and keep on with the Benefiber for life. Rooster's pain stopped in a couple weeks....and he gets Benefiber every day as a precaution, even though he eats whole wheat bread and has always been a good veggie eater.

Benefiber can go in anything that isn't carbonated....so it's easy to stir some into coffee, tea, milk, juice, water....or cook and bake with it. I always put a few big tablespoons into meatloaf, or a little into baked goods (when I remember)...and you literally cannot tell it's there. :)

[Thinker]

Because I was so close to my goal weight, I got a little obsessed with stepping on the scale.

I had a small gain last week (like 0.4 or 0.6), and there has been more so far this week.

I don't get it.

One of the reasons I put off my weight program was because I figured there would be a gain, and I knew it would confuse me. Turns out I was right. :seeingstars:

My wife told me just to stay off the scale; it really is making me anxious because I feel like I must be failing somewhere. That's some eff'd up thinking right there.

Sooooo... I'm going to commit to staying off the scale for the next week and a half........until my next weigh-in on Friday, August 26. I gotta get my head right with this shit.

[foxyshaman]

Crohn's is a horrible disease. I have two patients with it and I just have absolute compassion. Both of them have such a hard time with food, what the body can tolerate what it cannot. The insane drugs they have to take. I am glad you are taking great steps with Rooster, Jo.

I have been having a fabulous couple of weeks. My weight did not drop again last week, silly plateau. But then I went to the mountains on the weekend and hiked for three days. I have never been fit enough to hike to the summits before ... I felt great after. Yup, no plateau this week!! I did figure out what was causing it and eliminated said silly flat bread. Damn it that was the only bread my body could tolerate too. I get cold sores from most breads (especially the super yummy white bread...missing bread). I also get them from Oats and oh the sun.... joy joy fun fun. Even though my doctor maintains that cold sores are not related to allergies or foods, he just could never explain why I got them after eating said foods. A repeated fluke I guess :seeingstars:!!

Last night in my excercise class I swear he was on <insert snarky drug of choice) cause my intercostal muscles, every single fibre of them, hurt today. OMG!!! Tonite is my weight toning. OMG!!!

Then tomorrow AM I am off to teach a wilderness camp for four days. Which is pretty easy eating when you are a vegetarian. Although I did teach one year while on the master cleanser, that was the easiest packing for food like ever. It is rough camping, as in the only thing there is an outhouse. It is a beautiful spot with buffalo all around you, no fences. Lots of coyotes, fox, deer, you name it. Well except Cougars, no cougars. Very few bears have been seen there. But lots of moose, elk... it is a great park. We camp in a secluded area with a lake right by it.

Anyway wwwwaaaayyyyy off topic.

Matthew I am rooting for you. It is super hard where you are at. And you have the support of the planet. Be well my fellow Canadian.

I really love this thread.

[Inked_Trinity]

Because I was so close to my goal weight, I got a little obsessed with stepping on the scale.

I had a small gain last week (like 0.4 or 0.6), and there has been more so far this week.

I don't get it.

One of the reasons I put off my weight program was because I figured there would be a gain, and I knew it would confuse me. Turns out I was right. :seeingstars:

My wife told me just to stay off the scale; it really is making me anxious because I feel like I must be failing somewhere. That's some eff'd up thinking right there.

Sooooo... I'm going to commit to staying off the scale for the next week and a half........until my next weigh-in on Friday, August 26. I gotta get my head right with this shit.

The only time I step on the scale is when I'm trying to make weight for a fight. What we don't realize is exercise builds muscle and it weighs more than fat. I try to keep that in the back of mind. Try going by how you feel and how your clothes fit, this might keep your head where you want it.

[Leigh]

I can not stand doctors with no bed side manners.How insensative.When I was pregnant with my second son I had the worst craving for ice cold coke in the red can....it had to be in the can.Needless to say I gained a little more than just baby weight.On one of my visits to the Doctor my primary Doctor was not there and this older doctor saw me instead.He looks at my chart and then my weight and he just went off on me, he said I was much too petite to weigh so much.He told me I needed to move more and eat less.I needed to control myself.He walks me to the lobby and says nice and loud for everyone to hear..."Stop Snickerdoodeling or you will be on bedrest"....I was so embarresed and over a decade later I still remember him to this day.That Doctor needed to remember you went to urgent care because you were scared and concerned for your well being.Treating you as a whole person would have been kind.How do they think spending just a few minutes they have a definitive answer.I can relate to using food for comfort, it has been my "drug" of choice for years.My mother is an emotional eater as well.Medicating with food to relax and let go of her worries.I use to go to Weight Watchers and one of my leaders told us this story,she said her son who was about 4 was riding his bike and he fell and skinned his knee.He came running into the house crying his eyes out.Even after cleaning him up and giving him a bandaid he was still crying.So she gets him a cookie and says"here this will make you feel better"so what does he do.....he puts the cookie on his knee with this confused look on his face wondering why this cookie will help him.I often think of this story when I begin to eat because I am stressed out or upset and I am usually able to reign myself in.The emotional element of my weight problem is the biggest issue for me.I don't overeat because I am hungry or I don't know how to eat properly.I am hoping talking to other people and getting some new ideas will help so I can stay on track.I wish you the best and I hope your feeling better soon.

Hi Lizzy,

I know all too well about the emotional eating, and to be honest with what happened last night, I'm feeling pretty emotional and yet even with the need right now to eat I'm NOT giving in. Posting here is helping to distract Me, and even when the need gets really strong I refuse to give in ~ oatmeal was what I had for breakfast and I am not touching any more food until lunch. I'm drinking more water, am ignoring any pop that may be in the house and am just learning to pick My battles so to speak. My health is more important than any amount of food I could ever consume, and no one is worth sabotaging My health for. I'm feeling better overall this morning and am starting off this day anew .......... no more excuses for Me, I'm just gonna do it and no matter what I'm going to make sure that I get healthy because I need to for Myself in order to live a long time and be truly happy :-)

glad I could help you dear

You helped more than you will ever know :rrose:

http://www.medicinenet.com/edema/article.htm

Hi Mathew.

The internet is a wonderful tool.

Glad you saw a Dr. yesterday. I hate that the Dr. was dismissive. Now it's up to you to educate yourself as it's *Not just edema*

Here's hoping you stay motivated to do the right things!

I figured it was more than just something you could sweep under the rug, even though he made it seem like it was no big deal (which I know is not true). I will definately take the time to read the article, thank you for sharing it :-)

Good morning everyone :)

Matthew I'm glad you went in and were seen....I'm very frustrated with how you were treated though and the flippant response with no testing. Yikes.

So...again, one diabetic to another, you really really really need a good primary care doctor (or endocrinologist) to make sure that you have all the tests you need on a regular basis to manage your diabetes. Look at me....2 months late on my A1c test and advising Matthew....hmmmm.....obviously, it's tough enough to manage even with a good doctor...like the nice butch I have who is going to lecture me and give me that look...again...when I finally get my test done and get in there.

If you're only on metformin, chances are that your diabetes is not too advanced....or you're getting crappo treatment....and it's impossible for any of us to say which is which.

Like I said, I'm not a doctor or a nurse....I'm just a squeamish, struggling to be compliant diabetic. But I do know that you should be having quarterly blood tests that measure A1c, cholesterol, triglycerides, and kidney and liver function. You should also be seen annually by an opthamologist specializing in diabetes to keep an eye on your vision, and a podiatrist who treats diabetic patients to keep an eye on your feet.

That's the minimum of good care as I understand it as a patient.

I'm in your corner Matthew....keep pushing for the good care you deserve....and treat yourself with love and support as you start this journey. We're all here for you! :gimmehug:

Hey Jo,

When I called that Health Links place last night, they gave Me the phone numbers for a couple of endocrinologists so I am going to be phoning them over the next couple of days to get into see them. I also go the phone numbers to a doctor hotline that will help Me to find a primary care doctor other than just My trans doctor. My trans doctor has been both that and My primary care doctor since last year summer when I was just starting to look into transitioning and I felt more comfortable with her so I made him My primary doctor also. Now that I know its almost impossible to get in to see him when I need to, I'm going to go ahead and find another doctor for My main care & keep his current doc for My trans stuff.

I did have My eyes checked only 3-4 months ago and they did that test to check them since I am diabetic, and the doc said everything looks great so I'm glad for that. When the doctor put Me on the metformin, she said that the diabetes was not advanced or out of control and that since nothing was ever detected before that it must have only happened recently. I'm actually getting really good care from them so I'm confident that everything they've done for Me so far is good. I'm due for My next quarterly blood tests by the beginning of September so I will get in for that probably just after the 8th since thats when My sister is back in school and I'll be able to take the morning to get that done.

I'm so glad that I have everyone here for support :-)

Well this is my first post. I usually just stalk Jo and read a couple posts here and there. She also keeps me up to date on things. Ive been complaining about needing to lose weight because ive put on a few lbs since being off work for my back injury. Anyway i had to fast over the weekend,plus drink a JUG of icky stuff to clean myself out. The outcome indicated i needed more fiber and better eating habits. Jo bought me some raw veggies,and fiber one sweet stuff(which are freaking awesome btw) granted its only been 4 days(this is 5th day) but i have dropped 4lbs(most of it from fasting and cleansing but still). im hoping to keep on this trend. My problem is if i make it an obvious,gotta do thing then i wont do it,so i kinda let Jo lead the way and help me do it the healthy way!

:)

Well its about danged time that you got your butt over here and posted LOL

:D

[Gaige]

Today was my 12th day in a row doing 30 minutes of brisk walking on the treadmill. I've been doing the park trail workout which changes the incline between 3 and 5 throughout the walk. Before I started being diligent with my workout I would walk a mile about 3-4 times a week with no incline. This workout takes me about 1.75 miles with an incline. I was the same way with my lifting getting on the weight bench 3-4 times a week. I've lifted everyday for the past 12 days doubling my reps (curls & bench presses) from my old rountine and added sit-ups as well as lifting to work my triceps. The difference in my weight from the first day until today is a loss of 1.4 lbs. I kind of expected it to be more especially since I've been eating smaller portions and healthier meals. I am happy for the loss but I've been working so hard that I was expecting more. 18.4 lbs until I reach my goal.

[*Anya*]

Today was my 12th day in a row doing 30 minutes of brisk walking on the treadmill. I've been doing the park trail workout which changes the incline between 3 and 5 throughout the walk. Before I started being diligent with my workout I would walk a mile about 3-4 times a week with no incline. This workout takes me about 1.75 miles with an incline. I was the same way with my lifting getting on the weight bench 3-4 times a week. I've lifted everyday for the past 12 days doubling my reps (curls & bench presses) from my old rountine and added sit-ups as well as lifting to work my triceps. The difference in my weight from the first day until today is a loss of 1.4 lbs. I kind of expected it to be more especially since I've been eating smaller portions and healthier meals. I am happy for the loss but I've been working so hard that I was expecting more. 18.4 lbs until I reach my goal.

Maybe you are changing some of the weight to muscle? Muscle and fat (excuse the word, do not know what else to call it) do weigh the same. Take some measurements if you have not already done so, that will start to cheer you up!

Just a thought:)

[sweetfemme247]

All is well with me, I went off track alittle this morning, I made sage sausage(that my uncle shot himself) and eggs and toast for my aunt since she broke her elbow..... tonight Im making home made pierogies and kabasa on the grill.

[PinkieLee]

Well, food for today was...

Breakfast:
ONE scrambled egg, mixed with some leftover red potato & a lil' bit of the WW shredded cheese, wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla - 7 points

Lunch:
a WW lasagna, a slice of wheat bread, and fresh fruit for dessert - 9 points

Snacks:
I really haven't had much of an appetite today... so I just munched on a few grapes & a string cheese - 1 point

Dinner:
I've got some leftover grilled chicken, so I'm gonna sautee some onion & red pepper and mix in the leftover chicken. Put it on a wheat tortilla, with a lil' cheese and salsa & avacado... voila FAJITAS!

D is going out of town for a few days, so I'll be cooking for 1. I'm going to make sure that I have plenty of good stuff in the fridge to keep from making those fast & easy trips to the drive thru... BAD! Luckily I'm gonna be working the 2nd job throughout most of the weekend, so I'll stay pretty busy and have already promised myself to get my ass to the gym!

Anyway, tomorrow is weigh in day for me... so we shall see! I hope that everyone has a great night!! Keep up the great work y'all :)

[Gentle Tiger]

I lost my mind last night at Joe's Crab Shack. But I have returned. I am not enjoying some that calico bass that I caught and salad.

[JustJo]

Today was greek yogurt and fruit for breakfast....1 slice whole wheat toast with peanut butter for mid-morning snack.

Lunch was my giant salad....and I do mean giant. It fills a 2 qt. bowl....lettuce, cucumber, diced raw carrot, 2 hard-boiled eggs, 1/2 c. chickpeas, handful of black olives and my homemade dressing.

Dinner will be chili cuz my sweetie is cooking (more beans...yay!)

Late snack.....probably fruit, veggies....maybe some cheese or almonds.

I'm finding this reasonably easy to do. It certainly takes more prep time because of the fruits and veggies, but I'm taking some shortcuts like buying pre-cut fresh fruit salad at the grocery store at times.

Astoundingly, it's a LOT of food to eat, and I don't get everything on the list in each day!

[Zimmeh]

Today was:

Breakfast; strawberry banana Greek yogurt with a 12oz glass of chocolate soymilk and coffee

Lunch; tuna with olive oil mayo, oregano, cheese and black pepper with lettuce on a flour tortilla

Snacks; 90 calorie granola bar, 1 small bowl of popcorn oatmeal square cereal

Dinner; left over rice, corn, peppers cheese and chicken mixed together with a 8oz glass if orange juice

I drank several large glasses of water

I vacuumed the apartment today.

Tonight is gym night! I kicked ass on the exercise bike lastnight until my legs felt like spaghetti noodles!

Zimmy

[ruffryder]

Hello everybody! Some great news in here and great tips, THANKS!
I hope everyone enjoyed a healthy good day! If you're not losing weight you may be at a plateau and should maybe try different foods with less sugar, less fat, less sodium to see if that helps. Maybe more apples, or a steak! I don't know just heard that somewhere. haha. . and it could be you are losing inches even if you're not losing weight. Check that out. Remember if you are trying to stay away from caffeine and want energy eat an apple!

I'm on day 2 of my diet and this is what I ate today:

Breakfast: dark roast coffee, cantaloupe
Lunch: Grilled shrimp, yellow squash
Snack: 1 grissini breadstick
Dinner: Chicken breast with a spicy tomato sauce
Snack/Dessert: watermelon or a peach.

I ate everything I wanted before I started my diet (loaded up for 2 days) and I weighed this morning and had lost 3.6 lbs. after being on a diet 1 day. I'll see what tomorrow brings. I don't expect to keep losing this much every day, especially as my body gets used to the change in food, sugar, fat. It's a great feeling though to know it can be done. I think I may go ahead and do my ab workout before bed also.

Have a good evening everybody!

[Zimmeh]

Off to the gym I go!!

Zimmy

[Leigh]

All is well with me, I went off track alittle this morning, I made sage sausage(that my uncle shot himself) and eggs and toast for my aunt since she broke her elbow..... tonight Im making home made pierogies and kabasa on the grill.


Perogies and kielbasa? I'll be right over LOL ;)

I'll try and give a basic rundown of what I ate today:

Breakfast (9am) ~ 1 pkg raisin & spice oatmeal and a 500ml bottle of water

Snack (10:30am) ~ a 100 calorie pack of chocolate chip cookies

Lunch (12:30) ~ Chef Boyardee mini ravioli w/ meatballs and a glass of Chocolate Almond Milk

Supper (in about 15-20 mins) ~ chicken nuggets (5 or 6 small ones), mac 'n cheese (a little bit) and mixxed veggies (green beans, carrots and peas) and a bottle of water mixed with Nestea drink mix (blueberry pomegranate)

Snack (probably about 9pm or so) ~ Special K 100 cal pack strawberry fruit crisps


This is My first day without pepsi and so far I haven't missed it ~ I will allow Myself little sips here and there if I really have a craving for it but so far so good, no craving it right now ......... I'm happy :-)

[Lizzy]

i haven't had a weigh in this week, but i soooo want one...
Realistically, i've lost an amount of weight, but not because i've been eating healthy, mostly because i hadn't eaten much period... i had oral surgery last Monday, and of course the first few days i barely ate, and then my appetite diminished.. SO, working on building that back up, though i LOVE having no appetite, lol..it's not the healthy way to go about this.. SO, while doing so, scared i'll gain a few lbs back and don't want that disappointment..(i know i would obsess it, lots)

But ohhhh, sooooo want to weigh in, my clothes feel looser, and 'that' feels great.. But, i am getting back on track, forcing myself to eat and forcing myself to drink (i wasnt even drinking much sadly)..

SO, will report my updated weight loss next week!

I need to start weighing myself again.I have just been going by how my clothes feel but sometimes it takes a significant amount of weight for my clothes to actually feel tight as it usually goes straight to my chest and then to my butt.I get really bad backaches when my weight goes up.I got my genes from Dads side of the family.They are all Italians with a lot of "curves".My sister of course took after my mothers side of the family and has always been a size 0 or a 2.But I must admit she does have extremely healthy habits.She has never liked Soda,she doesn't like candy and she never eats fast food.She use to never have to work out but now she does yoga 7 days a week.So my goal this week is to put a battery in my scale and actually use it at least once a week.

[Lizzy]

Hello everybody! Some great news in here and great tips, THANKS!
I hope everyone enjoyed a healthy good day! If you're not losing weight you may be at a plateau and should maybe try different foods with less sugar, less fat, less sodium to see if that helps. Maybe more apples, or a steak! I don't know just heard that somewhere. haha. . and it could be you are losing inches even if you're not losing weight. Check that out. Remember if you are trying to stay away from caffeine and want energy eat an apple!

I'm on day 2 of my diet and this is what I ate today:

Breakfast: dark roast coffee, cantaloupe
Lunch: Grilled shrimp, yellow squash
Snack: 1 grissini breadstick
Dinner: Chicken breast with a spicy tomato sauce
Snack/Dessert: watermelon or a peach.

I ate everything I wanted before I started my diet (loaded up for 2 days) and I weighed this morning and had lost 3.6 lbs. after being on a diet 1 day. I'll see what tomorrow brings. I don't expect to keep losing this much every day, especially as my body gets used to the change in food, sugar, fat. It's a great feeling though to know it can be done. I think I may go ahead and do my ab workout before bed also.

Have a good evening everybody!

When I had my second son I gained ......gulp.....80 pounds!!!! I was addicted to Coke in the can which I never drank before I was pregnant.I was out of control with food.When my son was 12 weeks old he got RSV and was in the hospital for 12days under an oxygen tent.I had already lost a child at 5months of pregnency so there was no way I could handle losing my son.The first six months of his life I couldn't let anyone near him so I stayed home a lot and ate.I was now 100 pounds up and I could barely move.I am only 5'2 and I have a very small frame.My body was in pain 24-7.I was so depressed so then I would eat and the viscious cycle continued.One day my son was looking at some pictures of a weekend trip we took him on, he was only four years old and he said"Mommy how come you didn't come with us?"I was never willing to have my photo taken because I didn't want to see myself.I was trying to ignore the problem.I decided in that minute to join WW.I joined in July and by the following May I had lost 100pounds.I was just really driven.I made sure no matter what to exercise an hour a day and I always swithched up my exercise routine.I walked,I played tennis,I took water areobics,I took country line dancing lessons with my mother.I even tried to rollerskate with my dog(that didn't work out so good for me)I gave up all candy and only drank water with lemons,most importantly I never skipped a meeting.I have found I am really good at losing weight, but I am not that great at mainting my weight.I am hoping that talking about my issues with food and new tips from everyone will help me stay on track.

[Rockinonahigh]

This morning I had for breakfast was a bowl of cottage cheese and fresh peaches 8:30am at 10:00am I had 1/2 cup of capt.crunch cereal no milk just plain(only 21 carbs a 1cup bowl so its was 10 carbs..besides it was good) I went to the gym and rode the cross trainer for 3 miles and 100 calories gone.Then got on the street exercycle and rode 9 miles with the loss of 225 calories.Once I caught my breath and could stand and walk I went to the weight room then did a fue things liek the siting abb cruncher 10 at 30 pounda..10 at 50 pounda and back to 10 at 30 to finish it out.The next thing I used was some free weights arm curls with 15pounds (30each arm) the 20 leg presses at 70 pounds.I said I was going to keep it an easy day cause its been a coupel of weeks since ive been to the gym cause of my sore shoulder,but I felt good so I kept going,I know I will feel it tomorrow.

[Rockinonahigh]

P.s.s.s I had a huge salad at 3:00pm so im not any way hungry for dinner.

[nycfem]

BB and I are on our annual vacation with my mom to Montauk this week. I've managed to eat healthy the whole time thus far, which is good because I'm not getting as much exercise being away from the gym. I'm a creature of habit so I have a hard time jumping into alternative exercise routines while away.

My aunt stayed with us a few days, and even though it was raining we took a nice walk on the beach by the ocean in our swimsuits! We had the beach all to ourselves, as it was cold too. I must say it was kinda nice to have my fat during that adventure because it kept me warm! Then today I jumped waves in the ocean for about an hour and kinda kept my legs moving in the pool with one of those foam pool "noodles" (Noodles, yum, tee hee).

I've been cooking for all of us almost every night instead of going out. Tonight I made quinoa mixed with Greek yogurt (has a very comfort food texture) with veggie chili on top (kidney beans, tomatos, onions, peppers, red wine vinegar, garlic, cumin). I think it really helps to go on a vacation to a place that has a kitchen. Having the time on a vacation to do a lot of cooking is also relaxing.

[DamonK]

I actually ended up having to get help from a body builder friend.

When my doc changed my meds, I didn't realize the biggest side effect would be loss of appetite.

It was an absolutely miserable couple of weeks until MBE and I figured out a partial solution.

I'm not allowed to fix my plate anymore. MBE does it. She puts a few (around 5) bites of meat, a spoonful starch -- potatoes, rice, whatever, then a couple of spoonfuls of veggies. She knows I'm aware that this can be a problem, so I'm likely to eat the veggies first, so I get the most of those.

As she puts it, "If it doesn't look like so much, you might eat it better."

Now comes the body builder friend part. Like I said, the solution above is only a partial solution. I'm still not hungry and its hard to make myself to eat that much. So, now I get body fortess protein powder and mix it in almond milk. It gives me the nutrients I have to have, yet doesn't make me eat.

I can relate to the gaining weight problem. I get soooooooooooo mad. None of my clothes fit. Everything is too big. What used to be tight on me is now either a perfect fit or too loose. Yet the scale shows no difference.

Then I remembered the fat turning to muscle and muscle weighing more thingy...

Then I don't feel so bad.

[*Anya*]

Good morning all!

Note on pound of fat vs. Pound of muscle. Both equal one pound. The difference is that fat is more dense than muscle and a pound of muscle helps make us look leaner than a pound of fat:)

That being said: I was in Costco at lunch yesterday and went crazy! I had one of their 100% all beef hotdogs with mustard and onions. So good! Yes, I know it was probably full of mystery parts and tons of fat but it was yummy. I do not beat myself up for an occasional detour. Beating ourselves up can =giving up and I will not do that.

In my own headspace, I can eat something like that and jump back on my healthy eating train, no problem. Have not done that in ages. For dinner I had grilled shrimp and sliced tomatoes-also yum.

As long as I do not eat sugar-my personal trigger-I am fine.

Have a great healthy eating day all (me included)!

Hugs,

[JustJo]

Beating ourselves up can =giving up and I will not do that.

In my own headspace, I can eat something like that and jump back on my healthy eating train, no problem. Have not done that in ages. For dinner I had grilled shrimp and sliced tomatoes-also yum.

As long as I do not eat sugar-my personal trigger-I am fine.

Have a great healthy eating day all (me included)!

Hugs,

Amen to that!

Yesterday I was craving chocolate....so I had a tiny serving of good, dark Godiva chocolate....and savored every minute, let it melt on my tongue....and then got right back on the eating plan.

The scale this morning says no problem with that...and I'm back to greek yogurt, fruit and coffee for breakfast.

Tonight's dinner will be baked chicken and veggies (probably potatoes for Scoote and the Prince....but I might take a tiny serving if I've had no bread today).

My "official" weigh in won't be until Saturday but so far the scale has gone down every morning this week....so I'm happy. My "unofficial" weight loss since Saturday (5 days on this plan) is 4.5 lbs....which is kind of amazing. I know initial weight loss is often bigger but it sure feels nice!

[Thinker]

Yesterday I was craving chocolate....

It just occurred to me... I have not craved chocolate in quite some time. This is a miracle of sorts. Seriously...

I can't remember if I mentioned in here that I put the scale away......on a shelf out in the garage. Anyway... It was strange to go in this morning and fix my coffee because the scale wasn't there. I realized just how good it was to put it away because, obviously, I had gotten into the habit of getting on it every morning.

No good.

When it passed through my mind this morning and I remembered it was gone and reminded myself why, I then thought to myself.......F*ck that thing. ;)

The wife and I were talking about how many calories make a pound and how many calories, on average, I burn due to exercise and general activity; and gaining 3 pounds in 3 days is RIDICULOUS and does not make sense. It's just one of those weird body things going on, and I don't need to subject myself to all of that on such a regular basis.

So that's that!!!

[JustJo]

It just occurred to me... I have not craved chocolate in quite some time. This is a miracle of sorts. Seriously...

I can't remember if I mentioned in here that I put the scale away......on a shelf out in the garage. Anyway... It was strange to go in this morning and fix my coffee because the scale wasn't there. I realized just how good it was to put it away because, obviously, I had gotten into the habit of getting on it every morning.

No good.

When it passed through my mind this morning and I remembered it was gone and reminded myself why, I then thought to myself.......F*ck that thing. ;)

The wife and I were talking about how many calories make a pound and how many calories, on average, I burn due to exercise and general activity; and gaining 3 pounds in 3 days is RIDICULOUS and does not make sense. It's just one of those weird body things going on, and I don't need to subject myself to all of that on such a regular basis.

So that's that!!!

I think that's a great way to look at it, and putting the scale away is a good idea in your case. You're right....gaining 3 lbs. in 3 days is crazy unless you were eating an additional 3500 calories a day worth of food - which I think you'd notice! :)

Our bodies do odd things....some days they hang onto water, some days they don't. Hormones play a huge role that I'm not convinced we totally understand.

I think it's easy to make ourselves crazy over things we don't have understanding of or control over.

If you know that you're eating right, exercising well, getting enough sleep....I'd say you're on the right track, and your body will organize itself around and find its own best place. Health is the goal...and you're doing GREAT! :rrose:

[PinkieLee]

GOOD morning y'all :)

Well, look at all these positive changes happening, weight losses & healthy living going on up in here! I can't tell y'all how much you all motivate me to keep on going!

Weigh in was today... 2 more pounds gone forever! WOOHOOOO! It's crazy because my FIRST goal that I set for myself is only 13 pounds away... seriously, for the first time in a long time I can see it and KNOW it's gonna happen!

Three weeks ago, I started window shopping for a dress to wear to the Reunion at my favorite store ROSS. I found the most kick-ass black & leopard dress (just what I wanted for only $18). Excited, I headed to the dressing room only to find that I couldn't fit the damn thing over my birthin' hips. Ugh, I put that fabulous dress back on the hanger and left.

Last night, I went into another ROSS, just window shopping again, and low & behold I see the same freakin' dress. So, I grabbed it up and went to the dressing room, wishing & hoping to see a change. Unbelievably, I got the dress on AND zipped up! HOLY CRAP is all I can say. Now, it's still pretty snug in lots of places, but I bought the damn dress anyway!

So, hanging in my closet is my "goal dress" to wear to the Reunion. I've got 8 weeks 'till I have to wear this dress.... and there is NO WAY IN HELL I'm gonna let this kick-ass dress just stay on the hanger!

[Scorp]

My pants are too big! I'm having to wear a belt these days. I'm actually in between sizes...I still have my gut..but everything else seems to be a little smaller. Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!

I think I need to go shopping for work attire! It will be interesting to see what the scale says on Saturday. I'm almost tempted to weigh myself tomorrow morning instead.

I hope I'm not disappointed at my weigh-in...I hoping I lost at least 2 lbs this week.

[Leigh]

Good morning everyone,

Yesterday was the first real day that I took to start eating right and atleast I've already noticed a difference in My legs and feet ~ the swelling has gone down quite abit and its not as hard to walk today. I drank mostly water yesterday but allowed Myself a small glass of pepsi at supper just to say I had abit and then was right back to water. For breakfast just now I had a bowl of oatmeal and a bottle of water flavored with the Nestea singles drink powder. I admit that I've never been a huge water fan, but the drink crystals are making it easier to drink the stuff so I'm going to continue to use them but still incorporate regular water into the mix also.

I was going to go for a walk last night but it was still pretty hard for Me to walk so I didn't go, but I will be going tonight. I live on a long block so I figure if I start with walking around the block in the evening after supper, and do this everyday for a week or two just to get My body used to more movement, I will increase activity as I go along so I can start going further. I'm going to look into getting a small MP3 player so that I can take some music with Me on My walks; small ones don't cost alot of money so I know it wont cost alot to get one. Next month once My sister is back in school and I have My mornings free again, I am going to get a gym membership and start using those mornings to My advantage.

I'm proud of how I've done so far, its only a small step but every small success that I achieve and keep up with is better then having one huge accomplishment and then fall off the wagon because I have nothing left to do. One day at a time, one moment at a time ....... thats all I can do and I know that I will be just fine :-)

[Sachita]

Good morning everyone,

Yesterday was the first real day that I took to start eating right and atleast I've already noticed a difference in My legs and feet ~ the swelling has gone down quite abit and its not as hard to walk today. I drank mostly water yesterday but allowed Myself a small glass of pepsi at supper just to say I had abit and then was right back to water. For breakfast just now I had a bowl of oatmeal and a bottle of water flavored with the Nestea singles drink powder. I admit that I've never been a huge water fan, but the drink crystals are making it easier to drink the stuff so I'm going to continue to use them but still incorporate regular water into the mix also.

I was going to go for a walk last night but it was still pretty hard for Me to walk so I didn't go, but I will be going tonight. I live on a long block so I figure if I start with walking around the block in the evening after supper, and do this everyday for a week or two just to get My body used to more movement, I will increase activity as I go along so I can start going further. I'm going to look into getting a small MP3 player so that I can take some music with Me on My walks; small ones don't cost alot of money so I know it wont cost alot to get one. Next month once My sister is back in school and I have My mornings free again, I am going to get a gym membership and start using those mornings to My advantage.

I'm proud of how I've done so far, its only a small step but every small success that I achieve and keep up with is better then having one huge accomplishment and then fall off the wagon because I have nothing left to do. One day at a time, one moment at a time ....... thats all I can do and I know that I will be just fine :-)


It all starts with baby steps. Try watching documentaries for inspiration. It really does work. When I watched "Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead" it put me in high gear. It really inspired me. I watch it at least once a week and I follow the site foodmatters.tv to learn what others are doing.

You know what taste good and more healthy, no chemicals is agave and lemon in water. Agave is better then processed sugar or even raw natural sugar. I buy large bottle from Marshalls on sale in the gourmet section. Or even maple syrup.

Another thing I have been doing, which is hard but drinking at least 24 oz of water first thing in the morning. You can add lemon and maple. It kick starts your metabolism and helps detox your body. Be forewarned that you will eliminate a lot.

On another note....

I have been juicing daily for quite a few weeks now and I've lost 10 pounds without really trying. My energy has increased. I didn not diet while doing this btw and was eating pasta and steak once a week. But I'm really ready to take it to the next level and do a 10 day green juice fast. I'm planning it with Wanton Sex Toy Boi to help me during this time. The first few days will be hard because I'll detox and won't have coffee, no sugar, nadda, just juice. I'm thinking about doing this the first week in Sept and have two art classes lined up at the artisan center to keep me busy.

[nycfem]

That's cool, Sachita (about the juicing). What is your routine?
I know Yellow Band is also an expert in juicing.
I hear it gives you tons of energy!

[Anastasia]

I debated posting this morning because: 1.Everyone's doing so great and I, well, ate like I was going to the electric chair yesterday and 2. I am new and don't know anyone and I hate my introduction to a thread to be whining.

But, alas, whine I shall. :whine:

I rejoined WW for the 10,000th time about 7 weeks ago. I have struggled with my weight for my entire life (my first foray into diet programs was Nutrisystem that my parents enrolled me in as a present for my 17 th birthday. Nothing says, "Happy Birthday" like "Hey, Fatass, clearly you need help." but I digress...)

I had lost 9.6 pounds total (I say 'had' because after the last couple of binge eating days I am sure I will be up on Monday). I am tired of the diet yo yo and the inevitable self-flagellation that follows the upticks on the scale. I have adopted a very active lifestyle that has made me much healthier than in the past. It is time to get the food part of this equation.

This time I wanted to do a realistic plan that changed the way I look at food, not as my best friend, not as a magic elixir that will wash away pain or stress, but as nutrition to keep me healthy.

I do not want to work toward some mythical number on the scale that will make everything in my life perfect, nor try to attain some bikini model level of perfection, just eat in a way that reflects my other healthy life choices.

Granted, if I ever have sex again, I would like my partner to 'growl in approval' rather than 'gasp in horror' when I take off my clothes, so a little less junk in the trunk would not hurt my feelings.

*end whining*

Today, I vow to not let a 'Fuck it' day turn into a 'Fuck it' week.

[JustJo]

I debated posting this morning because: 1.Everyone's doing so great and I, well, ate like I was going to the electric chair yesterday and 2. I am new and don't know anyone and I hate my introduction to a thread to be whining.

But, alas, whine I shall. :whine:

I rejoined WW for the 10,000th time about 7 weeks ago. I have struggled with my weight for my entire life (my first foray into diet programs was Nutrisystem that my parents enrolled me in as a present for my 17 th birthday. Nothing says, "Happy Birthday" like "Hey, Fatass, clearly you need help." but I digress...)

I had lost 9.6 pounds total (I say 'had' because after the last couple of binge eating days I am sure I will be up on Monday). I am tired of the diet yo yo and the inevitable self-flagellation that follows the upticks on the scale. I have adopted a very active lifestyle that has made me much healthier in he past. It is time to get the food part of this equation.

This time I wanted to do a realistic plan that changed the way I look at food, not as my best friend, not as a magic elixir that will wash away pain or stress, but as nutrition to keep me healthy.

I do not want to work toward some mythical number on the scale that will make everything in my life perfect, nor try to attain some bikini model level of perfection, just eat in a way that reflects my other healthy life choices.

Granted, if I ever have sex again, I would like my partner to 'growl in approval' rather than 'gasp in horror' when I take off my clothes, so a little less junk in the trunk would not hurt my feelings.

*end whining*

Today, I vow to not let a 'Fuck it' day turn into a 'Fuck it' week.

Welcome Anastasia! :)

Glad you're here....and I hear you! No yo-yo, no beating yourself up....just sensible steps towards better health because you're worth it. :rrose:

[Thinker]

I have been juicing daily for quite a few weeks now and I've lost 10 pounds without really trying. My energy has increased. I didn not diet while doing this btw and was eating pasta and steak once a week. But I'm really ready to take it to the next level and do a 10 day green juice fast. I'm planning it with Wanton Sex Toy Boi to help me during this time. The first few days will be hard because I'll detox and won't have coffee, no sugar, nadda, just juice. I'm thinking about doing this the first week in Sept and have two art classes lined up at the artisan center to keep me busy.

We're looking at juicers. To you......and others......what should we be looking for (we're beginners)? Brands you recommend?


I debated posting this morning because: 1.Everyone's doing so great and I, well, ate like I was going to the electric chair yesterday and 2. I am new and don't know anyone and I hate my introduction to a thread to be whining.

But, alas, whine I shall. :whine:

I rejoined WW for the 10,000th time about 7 weeks ago. I have struggled with my weight for my entire life (my first foray into diet programs was Nutrisystem that my parents enrolled me in as a present for my 17 th birthday. Nothing says, "Happy Birthday" like "Hey, Fatass, clearly you need help." but I digress...)

I had lost 9.6 pounds total (I say 'had' because after the last couple of binge eating days I am sure I will be up on Monday). I am tired of the diet yo yo and the inevitable self-flagellation that follows the upticks on the scale. I have adopted a very active lifestyle that has made me much healthier than in the past. It is time to get the food part of this equation.

This time I wanted to do a realistic plan that changed the way I look at food, not as my best friend, not as a magic elixir that will wash away pain or stress, but as nutrition to keep me healthy.

I do not want to work toward some mythical number on the scale that will make everything in my life perfect, nor try to attain some bikini model level of perfection, just eat in a way that reflects my other healthy life choices.

Granted, if I ever have sex again, I would like my partner to 'growl in approval' rather than 'gasp in horror' when I take off my clothes, so a little less junk in the trunk would not hurt my feelings.

*end whining*

Today, I vow to not let a 'Fuck it' day turn into a 'Fuck it' week.

Welcome to the thread!!! You're in the right place, and we're all happy you are here. :)

[PinkieLee]

WELCOME Anastasia. YES, you are in the right place, and your introduction was honest... that's a great start!

We have all been in your shoes. Myself, more times than I can count. Luckily, many of us started out in the same spot your in... not wanting any more yo-yo diets ~ a healthy way of life is what we NEED. I've been retraining & relearning how I relate to food... in order to keep binges under control. I tell you, a come to Jesus meeting had to happen with myself. I couldn't allow myself to travel that downward spiral anymore.

So, pull up a chair my friend. You'll find motivation, encouragement & support here. We are all on this journey together... one day at a time!

GOOD LUCK!

[Oneida]

I will admit all though my thyroid makes it harder it isn't my biggest problem when it comes to my weight it is the horror munchies I get at night.I behave so well all day at work, I make a healthy dinner and then around 9:15 I am thinking of a snack.I try not to keep any sweets in the house but it doesn't stop me.I turn into a contestant on Iron Chef and I will find a way to make something out of nothing.Oh and the weight watchers desserts or skinny cow ice creams taste so good but I am pretty sure your only supposed to eat one at a time......:

Lizzy!!!

This is one of my all-time favorite posts! I have quoted your reference to iron chef to my friends, and we have all laughed so hard with total understanding (my best friend Anna said, "two words: sugar burritos"). thanks for sharing your fantastic wit and stories!

[JustJo]

I have become a big fan of the "giant salad lunch" :)

Today's salad (up to the 2 quart line) includes lettuce, half a cucumber, a big handful of raw cauliflower, a carrot, about 1/2 cup canellini beans (again, straight out of the can...just rinsed...such an easy way to eat more legumes), handful of black olives and my homemade olive oil/apple cider vinegar dressing.

It's crunchy, it's filling, it's yummy and I just feel so good after I eat it!

[nycfem]

I too love big salads. What is your dressing recipe?

I have become a big fan of the "giant salad lunch" :)

Today's salad (up to the 2 quart line) includes lettuce, half a cucumber, a big handful of raw cauliflower, a carrot, about 1/2 cup canellini beans (again, straight out of the can...just rinsed...such an easy way to eat more legumes), handful of black olives and my homemade olive oil/apple cider vinegar dressing.

It's crunchy, it's filling, it's yummy and I just feel so good after I eat it!

[PinkieLee]

Jo you salad sounds YUMMY! When I eat a quick lunch at home, I always try to add a small side salad or sliced tomato & cucumber to my frozen WW lunch. It seems help fill me up.

I've gotta work my 2nd job tonight, so it looks like Subway is in my future. I'll buy a $5 footlong sandwich with lots of veggies... have 1/2 for lunch and the other 1/2 for dinner. I started skipping on the chips (even the baked ones) and have switched to either the apple slices or I bring an orange with me.

I'll probably have a yogurt this afternoon for a snack.

[nycfem]

Anyone else have any really simple, healthy salad dressing recipes?

And don't just tell me lemon juice cuz I aint there yet :)

[JustJo]

I too love big salads. What is your dressing recipe?

I actually have one of those "Good Seasons" salad dressing cruets that you use with the packets of seasoning to make it at home.

It has lines on it for vinegar, water and oil....so I'm not sure of the measurements because I just fill up to the line. :)

So, I pour in apple cider vinegar up to the line (because it's supposed to be a healthy vinegar that helps you lose weight....and I like the taste), water to the next line, then...instead of the seasoning packet I put in a little chopped garlic that I buy in the jar, a little salt and pepper, a little parsley, a little dried onion flakes, a little italian seasoning mix that has oregano and basil and probably more parsley :)...just whatever looks right. Then extra virgin olive oil to the oil line on the cruet and shake it up.

It literally only takes a few minutes to make.

When this one runs out I'm planning on trying a mexican-ish one with a little chili pepper, some cilantro, maybe a blob of salsa lol....and use black beans and avocado in my salad instead of the white beans/chick peas I've been using.

[Scorp]

Hey All,

One of the BEST things we have invested in is a Vitamix.

We've had ours for 3 years and it's amazing. It makes everything you can think of and very easy. It comes with a great, easy recipe book and the things you can do with this is unbelievable.

It costs a pretty penny but worth every cent.

It's NOT a blender, or a food processor. What makes it so ideal is:

It has a 2 peak horsepower motor that proples blades up to 240 mph and blends tough ingredients.

It chops, creams, blends, cooks, grinds, kneads, churns.

Cleans itself with a drop of dish soap and warm water; just run on High for 30 seconds

We even make fresh fruit sorbet, "real" peanut butter out of salted/unsalted nuts, hot soups and MANY other things (too long to list here)...This thing is amazing and well worth it and it's nutritional value will also blow you away.

[PinkieLee]

Scorpie sounds like an infomercial :)
**kidding**

That sounds like an awesome kitchen gadget to have ~ actually useful, and won't sit in a cabinet collecting dust!

[ruffryder]

That's great Scorp! I just bought one by GE from Walmart. Less than $20. It's a blender and food processor in one. Has different sizes of cups and shakers for juice. I used it this morning to make a fresh orange juice smoothie with a dash of stevia and ice! saved some aside to drizzle on my spinach I'm going to have for lunch with cod. The other day I used it to puree some tomatoes and jalapeno for a spicy tomato sauce I used on my chicken breast. Good investment indeed!

Hey All,

One of the BEST things we have invested in is a Vitamix.

We've had ours for 3 years and it's amazing. It makes everything you can think of and very easy. It comes with a great, easy recipe book and the things you can do with this is unbelievable.

It costs a pretty penny but worth every cent.

It's NOT a blender, or a food processor. What makes it so ideal is:

It has a 2 peak horsepower motor that proples blades up to 240 mph and blends tough ingredients.

It chops, creams, blends, cooks, grinds, kneads, churns.

Cleans itself with a drop of dish soap and warm water; just run on High for 30 seconds

We even make fresh fruit sorbet, "real" peanut butter out of salted/unsalted nuts, hot soups and MANY other things (too long to list here)...This thing is amazing and well worth it and it's nutritional value will also blow you away.

[Scorp]

**ACT NOW ** AND GET YOUR FREE DVD TO EAT THIS NOT THAT!...SO CALL OUR OPERATORS TO CHAT! :raspberry:

Scorpie sounds like an infomercial :)
**kidding**

[ruffryder]

Thanks Jo for the ideas! I will have to try that.. Any other ideas for no fat, no sugar, low sodium dressings anyone?

some one sent me to this website.. http://www.waldenfarms.com/products/dressings.html not sure if they sell it in any supermarkets though.




I actually have one of those "Good Seasons" salad dressing cruets that you use with the packets of seasoning to make it at home.

It has lines on it for vinegar, water and oil....so I'm not sure of the measurements because I just fill up to the line. :)

So, I pour in apple cider vinegar up to the line (because it's supposed to be a healthy vinegar that helps you lose weight....and I like the taste), water to the next line, then...instead of the seasoning packet I put in a little chopped garlic that I buy in the jar, a little salt and pepper, a little parsley, a little dried onion flakes, a little italian seasoning mix that has oregano and basil and probably more parsley :)...just whatever looks right. Then extra virgin olive oil to the oil line on the cruet and shake it up.

It literally only takes a few minutes to make.

When this one runs out I'm planning on trying a mexican-ish one with a little chili pepper, some cilantro, maybe a blob of salsa lol....and use black beans and avocado in my salad instead of the white beans/chick peas I've been using.

[ruffryder]

Sounds good! All beef is actually a good thing! I wouldn't go too crazy about what we eat in so much as the portions and variety of more fresh fruits and vegetables. If anyone veers off, it's okay. No one is perfect. Get back on track and get right with the next meal or next day! The goal - less sugar, less fat, low sodium. Thanks for the post!

Good morning all!

Note on pound of fat vs. Pound of muscle. Both equal one pound. The difference is that fat is more dense than muscle and a pound of muscle helps make us look leaner than a pound of fat:)

That being said: I was in Costco at lunch yesterday and went crazy! I had one of their 100% all beef hotdogs with mustard and onions. So good! Yes, I know it was probably full of mystery parts and tons of fat but it was yummy. I do not beat myself up for an occasional detour. Beating ourselves up can =giving up and I will not do that.

In my own headspace, I can eat something like that and jump back on my healthy eating train, no problem. Have not done that in ages. For dinner I had grilled shrimp and sliced tomatoes-also yum.

As long as I do not eat sugar-my personal trigger-I am fine.

Have a great healthy eating day all (me included)!

Hugs,

[nycfem]

I use Waldenfarms dressings all the time and think they are pretty good. My favorite is the Honey Dijon, and I also like the Rasberry Vinaigrette. Of course, the negative, imo, is that they are artificially sweetened (with sucralose, which is hundreds of times sweeter than a lot of other artificial sweeteners, like Splenda, so - on a positive note- a tiny bit will do the trick as an ingredient in the dressing). I am generally keen on avoiding artificial sweeteners, but I do like that it has 0 calories with a decent taste :)

Thanks Jo for the ideas! I will have to try that.. Any other ideas for no fat, no sugar, low sodium dressings anyone?

some one sent me to this website.. http://www.waldenfarms.com/products/dressings.html not sure if they sell it in any supermarkets though.

[nycfem]

Adding: Waldenfarms is found in mainstream grocery stores, a big plus! It comes in a glass bottle.

[ruffryder]

Glad to see everyone is doing well in here! Thanks for all the information and ideas provided. Last night before bed I ended my day with an ab workout I found as an app on my phone. It allows me to work my abs in a few different ways and feels good! This morning I weighed and I was down 2 lbs from yesterday so it's good to see my diet is working! Have a great day everybody! :tea:

[Liam]

I actually have one of those "Good Seasons" salad dressing cruets that you use with the packets of seasoning to make it at home.
It has lines on it for vinegar, water and oil....so I'm not sure of the measurements because I just fill up to the line. :)



The garlic Good Seasons dressing has become a favorite at our house, and we don't have the special cruet with the lines marked on it, (years ago, I had several, but they never seemed to move with me...) and repurposed an empty jam jar with a leak proof cap. The measurements for the different liquids are on the back of the package, and it even tells you how to make it low-cal, by decreasing the oil and increasing the water. Good Seasons means good savings!

[Sachita]

That's cool, Sachita (about the juicing). What is your routine?
I know Yellow Band is also an expert in juicing.
I hear it gives you tons of energy!

I toyed with it for years and then started having some health problems and decided it was worth giving it a shot. I believe that we can heal with vitamins and food. Its proven. Watch "Food Matters". Within a few months, probably sooner I balanced my blood sugar, lower my blood pressure and my cholesterol. I made a few diet changes and started juicing then added mega doses of vitamin c, fish oil and lots others. It changed my life truly.

My routine

you must use a good juicer or you'll waste produce

kale, spinach, romaine, any greens juiced. Each week I go through roughly 5 of those organic baby spinach and spring greens from sam's club. Total cost maybe 25.00

Then I buy bags of organic carrots, celery and organic brocolli at Walmart its cheaper. I use a bag of each per day. Organic romaine lettuce is very good.

I buy organic apples and pears. I juice green tomatoes now because I have a lot. I even juice sweet potatoes.

I make close to 30 oz of juice in the morning. I drink about 20 oz, at least, glass in the morning and again later in the afternoon. Wanton sex toy boy is drinking 10 oz and getting addicted to it. In fact i'll need to make more.

obviously the fresher the better. to make a simple inexpensive green drink almost like the one on "Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead"

Romaine whole head
celery - 6 stalks
apple
baby spinach

you can add some carrots. But watch the film and or check out the reboot programs

http://jointhereboot.com/reboot-program/

easy to follow. Once you start to feel great you just want to do more and more.

Wanton sex toy boy started juicing, taking 3000 mg of vitamin c and 2000 mg of niacin. Within a few days hy felt more balanced and suffers from depression and diabetes. Just a few days, then a week, major improvement. We have started eating 50% of our meals are raw. This means lots of various salads etc but we both love rice and beans, pasta, shrimp, a steak once a week. Just instead of a loaded potato with steak I make us a huge salad with lots of chopped veggies, crumbled blue cheese. Also eat lots of mushrooms. you get full faster.

[Leigh]

It all starts with baby steps. Try watching documentaries for inspiration. It really does work. When I watched "Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead" it put me in high gear. It really inspired me. I watch it at least once a week and I follow the site foodmatters.tv to learn what others are doing.

You know what taste good and more healthy, no chemicals is agave and lemon in water. Agave is better then processed sugar or even raw natural sugar. I buy large bottle from Marshalls on sale in the gourmet section. Or even maple syrup.

Another thing I have been doing, which is hard but drinking at least 24 oz of water first thing in the morning. You can add lemon and maple. It kick starts your metabolism and helps detox your body. Be forewarned that you will eliminate a lot.

On another note....

I have been juicing daily for quite a few weeks now and I've lost 10 pounds without really trying. My energy has increased. I didn not diet while doing this btw and was eating pasta and steak once a week. But I'm really ready to take it to the next level and do a 10 day green juice fast. I'm planning it with Wanton Sex Toy Boi to help me during this time. The first few days will be hard because I'll detox and won't have coffee, no sugar, nadda, just juice. I'm thinking about doing this the first week in Sept and have two art classes lined up at the artisan center to keep me busy.

I've watched a few documentaries over the last few years and plus I watch The Biggest Loser alot and I was also watching that show called Extreme Makeover: Weight Loss Edition to see the transformations that people have made goiing from extremely obese to much healthier. Obviously I'm not gonna do it that radically but to see how people can change after some of the unhealthiest of lifestyles and eating habits, I know that I can do it. I'm going to begin the water thing tomorrow morning ~ what is 24 oz equal to, like glass size wise? With lemon can it be lemon juice from a bottle or should it be fresh? How much lemon should be put in? Figure I'll ask this stuff now :-)

I've been wanting to get a juicer for awhile now, think I'll have to look into that soon. I've seen those things in the store called a Magic Bullet; I've seen its website and you can make smoothies as well as use it as a juicer which I think is very cool (plus it does lots more stuff too). I won't be able to afford to get anything until next month but guaranteed I plan on buying one plus investing in a book or two on juicing. Not sure if anyone has seen any informercials on the Magic Bullet but I'll leave the website incase anyone wants to look at it ~ its a neat gadget and replaces ALOT of appliances in the kitchen, very handy and cute too!!!

http://www.buythebullet.com/index.php

I debated posting this morning because: 1.Everyone's doing so great and I, well, ate like I was going to the electric chair yesterday and 2. I am new and don't know anyone and I hate my introduction to a thread to be whining.

But, alas, whine I shall. :whine:

I rejoined WW for the 10,000th time about 7 weeks ago. I have struggled with my weight for my entire life (my first foray into diet programs was Nutrisystem that my parents enrolled me in as a present for my 17 th birthday. Nothing says, "Happy Birthday" like "Hey, Fatass, clearly you need help." but I digress...)

I had lost 9.6 pounds total (I say 'had' because after the last couple of binge eating days I am sure I will be up on Monday). I am tired of the diet yo yo and the inevitable self-flagellation that follows the upticks on the scale. I have adopted a very active lifestyle that has made me much healthier than in the past. It is time to get the food part of this equation.

This time I wanted to do a realistic plan that changed the way I look at food, not as my best friend, not as a magic elixir that will wash away pain or stress, but as nutrition to keep me healthy.

I do not want to work toward some mythical number on the scale that will make everything in my life perfect, nor try to attain some bikini model level of perfection, just eat in a way that reflects my other healthy life choices.

Granted, if I ever have sex again, I would like my partner to 'growl in approval' rather than 'gasp in horror' when I take off my clothes, so a little less junk in the trunk would not hurt my feelings.

*end whining*

Today, I vow to not let a 'Fuck it' day turn into a 'Fuck it' week.

Hi Anastasia,

We all have the right to whine sometimes, and I don't feel this post was so much whining as it was just a good way of getting your feelings out about a crappy situation. All of us in this thread at one time or another have gone through our own struggles in life and anything to do with food is a serious struggle, especially when your overweight. I can't imagine how any parent could sit there for their child's birthday (no matter what age) and hand them an enrollment in a weight loss program. Perhaps if it was very serious and they made it clear that it was with the best of intentions I can sort of understand it, however I don't agree with doing it on your birthday and yes that would certainly seem like a slap in the face.

I think its very smart to not necessarily be obsessed ith the numbers on the scale, but rather just worry about making lifestyle choices that will benefit you in the long run ~ heating better, getting more exercise and just overall being more aware of things like triggers, emotions and such (I'm learning alot of that Myself, its this threads fault too LOL). But its true I am learning about triggers and how to keep My emotions from making Me pull food out and just eat (which is what I always did). Today for example, My dad comes home from work today and starts yapping at Me for leaving a light on (I was using it and told him it was needed but he shut it off on Me) then proceeded to cut Me off when I tried to explain to him why I needed the light. He is all about blaming everyone else for things, and when he starts on Me its triggers My depression and I eat ~ but today I recognized the trigger and I did NOT grab food, instead I had water and did some house cleaning.

It certainly isn't easy, as we all know, but little changes will lead to bigger things and a much healthier lifestyle which is really what its all about ~ not necessarily numbers on a scale. And whoever is lucky enough to be your partner in the future will not see your weight as a bad thing, rather they will growl and appreciate every inch of you no matter what :rrose:

**ACT NOW ** AND GET YOUR FREE DVD TO EAT THIS NOT THAT!...SO CALL OUR OPERATORS TO CHAT! :raspberry:

Damn operators were busy!!!! :seeingstars:

[Liam]

I wanted to share a free website dedicated to helping folks achieve a healthier life. SparkPeople is an incredible resource for diet, lifestyle, exercise and fitness, and even special health issues such as GERD or diabetes. It allows you to track your diet, exercise routine, weight and inches, and even makes suggestions regarding your diet and cardio/exercise. It provides weekly feedback in the form of a report, and offers lots encouragement, and gives you a way to measure your progress. For those with questions, and those wanting to have a little more structure and or help, check out SparkPeople (http://www.sparkpeople.com).

[Rockinonahigh]

Staying on any diet isnt easy,if it were we all would be at the weight we want to be.Over the last couple of months I have lost weight,gained a fue ounces or a pound then lost it and more again...sort of yoyo hear and there but mostly for the good.My biggest prob with loseing weight is some of the stress I deal with that comes out of no where or at least it looks that way to me.Recently I have had probs with my shoulder cause of the extra load of work ive been haveing to do at work so ive missed some days going to the doc or resting it.I have worked at the center for a year and never had a prob with anything,now the center has a new owner so we have less folks to care for 35 people a day ..this is an adult day care with folks with varying ablities.Over the time I have had shoulder probs,wich they knew about but kept adding more work on me that effective work was becomeing harder to do.So last week they ask the agency for a replacement for me..and becaues the agency is on a freeze because of the goverment cut backs im now job less...for the time being anyway.I have a fair income just the same but work for the extra jingle we all like to have.Now that being said,I know something will come along so im not to worried about it...just being at home gives me to much idle time.Atleast I can spend more time at the gym daily insted of three times a week.All this came out of the blue but sence it changed owners its just not the same place..

[Starbuck]

Hi everyone, I wanted to share something with you that has really worked for me. It takes consistency and dedication but you will see results if you stick to it.

When you eat and you get that FIRST sensation that you are full, STOP eating. It doesn't matter that you could fit more into your stomach or finish what you have on your plate, take the rest home for left overs! Eventually your stomach will shrink and you'll be surprised at how much less you'll be eating! I have also been put on a medication called Topiramate, it is for headaches but it does wonders for decreasing my appetite and how much I eat.

AND I went so far as to do the HCG diet, where I gave myself the injections for 43 days, wasn't bad at all. Using all the above methods combined, since October last year I've dropped from 208 pounds to 162 pounds and the pounds keep coming off because of the way I eat. I hope this helps!

[Julie]

Hi everyone, I wanted to share something with you that has really worked for me. It takes consistency and dedication but you will see results if you stick to it.

When you eat and you get that FIRST sensation that you are full, STOP eating. It doesn't matter that you could fit more into your stomach or finish what you have on your plate, take the rest home for left overs! Eventually your stomach will shrink and you'll be surprised at how much less you'll be eating! I have also been put on a medication called Topiramate, it is for headaches but it does wonders for decreasing my appetite and how much I eat.

AND I went so far as to do the HCG diet, where I gave myself the injections for 43 days, wasn't bad at all. Using all the above methods combined, since October last year I've dropped from 208 pounds to 162 pounds and the pounds keep coming off because of the way I eat. I hope this helps!

When you speak about HCG? Is that pregnant women's urine? I know my mom did this in the late 60's?
I have the opposite issue -- I do not get hunger pains and even without eating, I am almost always full. Which is why I do not lose weight easily - my body is almost starving itself and it is not intentional. It is a condition I have - I don't get hungry. I have to set alarms and force myself to eat most days.

And congrats on the weight loss - you must be feeling awesome.

Julie

[Starbuck]

When you speak about HCG? Is that pregnant women's urine?

I have the opposite issue -- I do not get hunger pains and even without eating, I am almost always full. Which is why I do not lose weight easily - my body is almost starving itself and it is not intentional. It is a condition I have - I don't get hungry. I have to set alarms and force myself to eat most days.

And congrats on the weight loss - you must be feeling awesome.

Julie

Human chorionic gonadotropin or (HCG) is a glycoprotein hormone produced during pregnancy that is made by the developing fetus. What happens during the diet is that you are restricted to 500 calories (a very healthy 500 calories) but the HCG then gets the remainder of your bodys remainder of needed calories from your stored fat. I lost INCHES! Sorry to hear about your condition, good luck with it.

[sylvie]

I wanted to share a free website dedicated to helping folks achieve a healthier life. SparkPeople is an incredible resource for diet, lifestyle, exercise and fitness, and even special health issues such as GERD or diabetes. It allows you to track your diet, exercise routine, weight and inches, and even makes suggestions regarding your diet and cardio/exercise. It provides weekly feedback in the form of a report, and offers lots encouragement, and gives you a way to measure your progress. For those with questions, and those wanting to have a little more structure and or help, check out SparkPeople (http://www.sparkpeople.com).

i love Sparkpeople, it's a great site..overwhelming at first, but wonderful and informational.. i'm a member there - so thank y ou for this post Liam, because i needed the push to get in the habit of tracking my stuff each day, and getting more motivation!

[sylvie]

Hi all..

Just a lil daily update..
i did a TON of walking today, which i'm happy for..

but had an appointment with a dietician today, which was wonderful for me..
i got so much information, healthy eating tips, help with more of an exercise regime, how much i should aim for personally, foods to avoid, to eat, help concerning my eating disorder , calorie intake & how to take my measurements right.

so i came out with knowledge, and lots of charts and forms to follow along this week to get myself in a better routine.. She weighed me, but she promised she wouldnt share my weight with me today, since i didnt wanna weigh myself this week.. i lost a lot of weight due to not eating properly cuz of my oral surgery, so if i gain some back, i dont wanna obsess it like i said yesterday.. She did say i lost quite an amount though - but.. i will go for my actual weigh in on Monday, and report my loss update then..

i am eating much better today, lil more of an appetite, that feels good - now i can gain strength to exercise more faithfully, and of course get back on track with my healthy eating.. my positivity soared when i was on track! Though the weight loss feels great, i want it to be for the right reasons..

Congrats to everyone on your progress this week!
You all continue to motivate me, and your tips teach me lots!

[Zimmeh]

I love the organic olive oil based raspberry vinegarette that I can pick up at the grocery store. Usually, when I eat a salad, I have the cook put it on the side and I dip my fork into it. The name of the company is BoltHouse farms. I am including a link to their recipe page.

Enjoy!

http://bolthouse.com/our-recipes/dressings

Zimmy

Thanks Jo for the ideas! I will have to try that.. Any other ideas for no fat, no sugar, low sodium dressings anyone?

some one sent me to this website.. http://www.waldenfarms.com/products/dressings.html not sure if they sell it in any supermarkets though.

[ruffryder]

Thanks for the web links and tips again everybody! Have a good night. Get some rest. Here is another link you may be interested in . http://www.myfitnesspal.com/welcome/learn_more

[Corkey]

Thanks Jo for the ideas! I will have to try that.. Any other ideas for no fat, no sugar, low sodium dressings anyone?

some one sent me to this website.. http://www.waldenfarms.com/products/dressings.html not sure if they sell it in any supermarkets though.


Make your own? EVOO, honey mustard or dijon, lemon juice, and ponzu. Wisk and pour!

[Rockinonahigh]

I know I havent said much lately about to much,gess im going thrue a quiet spell or something..you know how life goes.Id like you to know that ive been readiing how things have been going for you and wish it hadnt been that way.Onething I do know is that you have made some very possitive changes as well as good desisions in your life.Changes are hard at first but once you get to makeing them it becomes less hard to do,just takeing one step at the time has been said by many, but is so true.In one post you said u were thinking of geting a place of your own,wich is a great idea,I did the same many years ago and have never regreted doing so..the freedom and peace of mind was worth haveing done the move,I still stayed intouch with family but haveing a place to call my own was and is priceless.
As for changeing your eating habbits and getting more exersise is one of the best things you can do for yourself.I know how you feel about cokes I use to drink a 12 pack a day then got to three a day and now I still he 8 canns in a 24 pack to the third case that my son bought tonight,I doubt I will totaly quit sodas but now and again its ok to have a bit of it,water and chrystle light is my fix how.I also as of next monday will be smoke free for a year...that was harder than droping the soda habbit.Even tho I eat something I shouldnt hear and there wich I think is ok I have changed my diet 180 degrees around.I wish we lived closer We could be weigh loss buddies and hit the gym also.Being we can only suport each other and others on this issue on line, it will have to do.But together we can and do help eachother by what we post.Good luck my friend in your journey,keep those post comeing its good to read them.

[Cowboi]

When I stepped on the scales this morning, and I have reached my 1st personal goal !!!!! So now I am sitting here having my oatmeal pancake. YaY its friday!!!

[*Anya*]

I appreciate this site, not only for the encouragement, support and tips but to receive information on both sides of diet and eating possibilities.

This is not at all to be critical of anyone type of eating plan to achieve their goal but to ensure I always critically evaluate what would be best for me personally. It is just how I was taught in nursing school.

In that vein, the Mayo Clinic website had a Registered Dietitian address the issue of Hcg:

HCG diet: Is it safe and effective?
Does the HCG diet work — and is it safe?

Answer
from Jennifer K. Nelson, R.D., L.D.

Because the HCG diet combines injections or supplements of the HCG hormone along with severe calorie restriction, you may lose weight — at least for the short term. But it's the calorie restriction that causes the weight loss, not the HCG. In addition, the safety of HCG for weight loss is uncertain, and the hormone hasn't been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a treatment for obesity or weight control.

HCG is human chorionic gonadotropin, a hormone produced during pregnancy. As a prescription medication, HCG is used mainly to treat fertility issues.

Proponents of the HCG diet say that HCG can help you lose weight, burn fat and redistribute fat away from your buttocks and stomach. On the HCG diet, you either receive injections of HCG or take HCG supplements. The HCG diet also requires you to drastically cut your calorie intake, typically consuming just 500 to 800 calories a day — about one-fourth to one-half of the standard calorie recommendations. The HCG diet is typically offered through weight-loss clinics that say they will provide medical supervision.

Although researchers have studied the HCG diet for years, no high-quality studies have shown that the hormone itself helps weight loss. Following any very low calorie diet is likely to result in weight loss, regardless of taking HCG. And the HCG diet can have drawbacks. Severe calorie restriction can make it hard to meet all of your nutritional needs. And rapid weight loss can lead to gallstones. Also, HCG can cause side effects, including headache, fatigue, irritability and male breast enlargement. And be careful about buying HCG products on the Internet — they might not be what they say they are.

[JustJo]

When I stepped on the scales this morning, and I have reached my 1st personal goal !!!!! So now I am sitting here having my oatmeal pancake. YaY its friday!!!

Woooo Hoooooo! Fantastic! :cheer:
Congratulations on reaching that milestone!

I appreciate this site, not only for the encouragement, support and tips but to receive information on both sides of diet and eating possibilities.

This is not at all to be critical of anyone type of eating plan to achieve their goal but to ensure I always critically evaluate what would be best for me personally. It is just how I was taught in nursing school.

In that vein, the Mayo Clinic website had a Registered Dietitian address the issue of Hcg:

HCG diet: Is it safe and effective?
Does the HCG diet work — and is it safe?

Answer
from Jennifer K. Nelson, R.D., L.D.

Because the HCG diet combines injections or supplements of the HCG hormone along with severe calorie restriction, you may lose weight — at least for the short term. But it's the calorie restriction that causes the weight loss, not the HCG. In addition, the safety of HCG for weight loss is uncertain, and the hormone hasn't been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a treatment for obesity or weight control.

HCG is human chorionic gonadotropin, a hormone produced during pregnancy. As a prescription medication, HCG is used mainly to treat fertility issues.

Proponents of the HCG diet say that HCG can help you lose weight, burn fat and redistribute fat away from your buttocks and stomach. On the HCG diet, you either receive injections of HCG or take HCG supplements. The HCG diet also requires you to drastically cut your calorie intake, typically consuming just 500 to 800 calories a day — about one-fourth to one-half of the standard calorie recommendations. The HCG diet is typically offered through weight-loss clinics that say they will provide medical supervision.

Although researchers have studied the HCG diet for years, no high-quality studies have shown that the hormone itself helps weight loss. Following any very low calorie diet is likely to result in weight loss, regardless of taking HCG. And the HCG diet can have drawbacks. Severe calorie restriction can make it hard to meet all of your nutritional needs. And rapid weight loss can lead to gallstones. Also, HCG can cause side effects, including headache, fatigue, irritability and male breast enlargement. And be careful about buying HCG products on the Internet — they might not be what they say they are.

Anya....I'm so glad you posted this. :)

I read Starbuck's post and, as happy as I am that you achieved the results you want, it frankly scares the crap out of me to hear about people injecting themselves with stuff and living on severe calorie restriction just to lose weight.

My dearest friend has been on a lifetime of yo-yo dieting...often with very severe calorie restrictions. She's lost dramatic amounts of weight many times, only to regain it and then some.

After her last wildly calorie restricted diet (of about 500 calories a day) she ended up having to have her gall bladder removed, and suddenly started having thyroid problems....something she had never experienced before. In addition, her metabolism is destroyed, she's flirting with diabetes...and she is now bigger than she's ever been.

She's working with a nutritionist now (thank goodness) who is helping her learn to eat sensibly, and working with a counselor to try to sort through some of her issues with food....but her body is (probably) permanently damaged, according to her doctor, because of these kinds of diets. The doctor equated it to living through several famines...and the damage that does. She's left wishing that she had never done the diets, but it's not something she can take back.

There's no way you can get all of the nutrition you need each day in 500 calories. And starving and injecting yourself doesn't change your relationship to what you eat...it just forces your body to comply (temporarily). For me, this is like the lap band and stomach stapling....yes, it works....temporarily.

I don't want to sound like I'm coming down on anyone or criticizing their choices....I'm not. But I actually started this thread in response to a post about HCG and the 500 calorie diet....and, with respect, I'd prefer that that kind of advice stayed in that thread rather than this one.

This one is about healthy weight loss.

Thanks everyone for understanding. :rrose:

[PinkieLee]

When I stepped on the scales this morning, and I have reached my 1st personal goal !!!!! So now I am sitting here having my oatmeal pancake. YaY its friday!!!

Woooohoooooooooo this is the best news I've heard all day! CONGRATS on crossing your first goal... you ROCK!!!

[Tcountry]

Well said Jo!
I thought that too. This is about becoming & staying healthy.
Making Lifestyle changes.

I can't imagine that injections would be a lifestyle change.
I wouldn't want to do that for the rest of my life.

In other news ...Sunshyne is super busy with work. She had a cheat day yesterday. But all in all she is still doing well. It will be nice for school to get underway & for her to get back into an exercise routine.
I get to see her in 2 weeks :)

[PinkieLee]

Welcome Starbuck!

First of all, I would like to say congratulations on your weight loss. I bet you feel amazing!

Like you, I've also done the HCG diet. Well, not as extreme as yours with the 500 calorie a day restriction. We have 2 weight loss clinics here that pretty much specialize in this kind of weight loss. They combine HCG and B12, put you on Adipex (yeah, speed) and tell you to stay within 1000 - 1200 calories a day. You come in once a week, pay $14 for the shots & get a $10 week perscription... they weigh you and say "see you next week." Well, when I did this years ago, I lost an unbelievable 65 pounds.... only to gain it all back plus another 15 pounds.

Like others said, this was a temporary fix. I was bouncing off the walls, thanks to the speed, and just didn't eat. I NEVER learned why I overate, anything about triggers, or how to actually eat healthy foods without feeling deprived. I hate to admit it... I've tried this method at last 5 times in the past 7 years. FOR ME, it doesn't work longterm.

[JustJo]

Welcome Starbuck!

First of all, I would like to say congratulations on your weight loss. I bet you feel amazing!

Like you, I've also done the HCG diet. Well, not as extreme as yours with the 500 calorie a day restriction. We have 2 weight loss clinics here that pretty much specialize in this kind of weight loss. They combine HCG and B12, put you on Adipex (yeah, speed) and tell you to stay within 1000 - 1200 calories a day. You come in once a week, pay $14 for the shots & get a $10 week perscription... they weigh you and say "see you next week." Well, when I did this years ago, I lost an unbelievable 65 pounds.... only to gain it all back plus another 15 pounds.

Like others said, this was a temporary fix. I was bouncing off the walls, thanks to the speed, and just didn't eat. I NEVER learned why I overate, anything about triggers, or how to actually eat healthy foods without feeling deprived. I hate to admit it... I've tried this method at last 5 times in the past 7 years. FOR ME, it doesn't work longterm.

Thanks for sharing this PinkieLee :)

My only foray into "chemical" weight loss was about 10 years ago. A co-worker was losing lots of weight, had tons of energy, was looking great....and she recommended I see her doctor.

I did, and he put me on some pills (can't remember the name for the life of me). I took them, and had a ton of energy, started to lose weight.

That went on (for me) for only about 3 weeks....until I found myself unable to get out of bed in the morning, sick, in tears at anything and everything....I was just an absolute wreck.

Turns out that the pills I was taking worked by stimulating the adrenal glands...so basically my co-worker and I were on an unending andrenaline rush. No wonder we felt great and lost weight!

The problem was that my adrenal glands were (evidently) over-taxed by the stress I was under in my life....and within 3 weeks I had exhausted them, and myself, completely.

I went off the pills, and it took months before I felt even remotely myself again.

In those months I was exhausted, could never get enough sleep to feel even remotely rested and dragged myself around through my single working mother life like a wet, dirty dishrag.

Guess what I relied on for energy and comfort?

Yep.

In the end my "diet pill" experiment made me lose 18 and then gain 45 pounds.

I'll stick to the giant salad lunch, greek yogurt and generally low-glycemic food plan I'm on. I'm losing weight and, more importantly, my blood sugars are good! :)

[nycfem]

What are EVOO and ponzu? And do you use lemon juice from an actual lemon or the kind from the store in a container?

Noting that Corkey and Ami are a bottomless well of useful information in and out of the kitchen.

Make your own? EVOO, honey mustard or dijon, lemon juice, and ponzu. Wisk and pour!

[Scorp]

Good Morning Fellow Weight-Loss Peeps,

I was getting ready to post and be upset because I hopped on the scale an hour or so ago and it said I gained almost 5 lbs. :scared:

I gasped in horror and was getting ready to beat myself up and blame the yogurt parfaits that I've been thoroughly enjoying this week for breakfast from the cafe' across the street. And yesterday I caved and got pad thai with my friends at work. I ate the majority of it, but left the rest because I was full. I would have never done that, but I'm more familiar with just "saying no" instead of feeling the need to eat everything in front of me. I also had a raspberry/lime diet tonic (soda as you folks know it) last night with my fat-free popcorn, peanut butter and jelly crackers (that I made), reduced fat-free fig newtons (about 6 or 7 of them). This whole week I've weaned myself off tonic and have been drinking water. I've never been a huge water drinking person and usually have to force myself to drink it.

Anyway, a few minutes ago, I decided to strip down again and hop on the scale to see if it indicated something different and sure enough it did. I only gained 1 lb.

For me, anyway, as much as I despise getting on the scale and seeing any type of weight gain, it gives me that "reality check" of needing to step up and do the right thing. I haven't been journaling in over a month and thought I had a pretty good handle on maintaining my diet plan. Not the case, I need to get back into the swing of things by journaling every single day.

So, I must commit to myself to do that in order to be successful at this. Yeah my pants and some shirts are baggy, but I still need to keep that promise to myself and reach my goal weight. I still have a very long way to go and each day it's a struggle and so much temptation is around me and there are days I'm so gung ho about doing it, and other days I say what the hell a little won't kill me and I know my limit.

I'm being honest in my posts folks and I just want to say to everyone here that I'm thankful for you pouring your hearts out with your struggles, addictions, goals, all of the above. This thread has a lot of meaning to me and I thank each of you for sharing your stories. Sometimes it's not easy and we take the good with the bad with having wonderful days and then really bad ones. Which leads me into a bad ones:

Last night I had a horrible evening with snacking and I also smoked. I really enjoyed the smoking and as I said a week or so ago, I find it very freeing to me for some reason and enjoy doing it. I hate the taste, never enjoyed it, but something about oral fixation that I like. It was 2 days that I went without one and I didn't crave it, but last night I broke that desire.

I guess the good thing is I don't have a pack because it was my neighbor was over and we smoked hers. But, we'll see how it goes as the day progresses if I feel the "urge" to go buy them. Right now I'm not there with the craving. Maybe it will stay like that.

Personally there is no gray area. It's just the type of person I am, it's either all or nothing. I know I'll get over the hump and do good, and I'm taking it day-by-day.

Best,
-S-

[PinkieLee]

((SCORPIE))

Honey, you are doing amazing! So we've all had those kinds of weeks, but we can & WILL bounce back. Sometimes the last thing I wanna do is think about and monitor my food... and like you, I just try to wing it. I try to keep up with a "guesstimate" in my head, but I know damn well that I'm not keeping up with every. single. thing. that goes in my mouth.

Changing our eating habits & getting out of our old comfort zones is hard... fucking hard. I can be out to dinner with friends, and the little devil in my head says, "oh Tonya, just eat what you want... it's not gonna kill you." I can let those voices self sabatoge myself quickly.

Thing is, I've realized that my comfort zones were not normal. Who sits down after a crappy day and eats a pint of Rocky Road ice cream and finishes it off with a bottle of wine?! Yeah, that WAS me. I'm having to find ways to pamper or reward myself that DON'T include food or alcohol. Some days are harder than others.

You can do this Scorpie... WE ALL CAN DO THIS! One day at a time... and on those rough days one MEAL at a time!

[Leigh]

I know I havent said much lately about to much,gess im going thrue a quiet spell or something..you know how life goes.Id like you to know that ive been readiing how things have been going for you and wish it hadnt been that way.Onething I do know is that you have made some very possitive changes as well as good desisions in your life.Changes are hard at first but once you get to makeing them it becomes less hard to do,just takeing one step at the time has been said by many, but is so true.In one post you said u were thinking of geting a place of your own,wich is a great idea,I did the same many years ago and have never regreted doing so..the freedom and peace of mind was worth haveing done the move,I still stayed intouch with family but haveing a place to call my own was and is priceless.
As for changeing your eating habbits and getting more exersise is one of the best things you can do for yourself.I know how you feel about cokes I use to drink a 12 pack a day then got to three a day and now I still he 8 canns in a 24 pack to the third case that my son bought tonight,I doubt I will totaly quit sodas but now and again its ok to have a bit of it,water and chrystle light is my fix how.I also as of next monday will be smoke free for a year...that was harder than droping the soda habbit.Even tho I eat something I shouldnt hear and there wich I think is ok I have changed my diet 180 degrees around.I wish we lived closer We could be weigh loss buddies and hit the gym also.Being we can only suport each other and others on this issue on line, it will have to do.But together we can and do help eachother by what we post.Good luck my friend in your journey,keep those post comeing its good to read them.

Hey Rockin,

The thing that sucks for Me, is that all of My friends here are in another country! Many times I've wished I lived closer to friends, especially many on here, but atleast I have the computer as a way to communicate. I have one bio guy friend who has been saying that he will go to the gym with Me but it hasn't happened yet, so yeah if you were closer bud I'd definately take you up on that offer. Over the last three days, I've only allowed Myself a small glass of pepsi a day otherwise its been water and the occasional glass of milk (like My chocolate almond milk). I've gone for a couple of walks, not long ones but small ones, starting off slow and working My way upto longer ones.

I'm making sure to eat three meals a day, and not two and then binge later on snacks. I've been having a package of oatmeal for breakfast which is keeping Me full; then lunch I've been having one can of pasta (chef boyardee) then if I want a small snack I've had one of those 100 calorie packs of Special K fruit crisps (I got strawberry and blueberry). They are almost like small versions of pop tarts, which I love, but so much better for Me and they taste amazing. Supper varies day to day; last night was breaded fish sticks (I only had 4 or 5 instead of like 8 or 10) as well as cheddar and broccoli rice. To bed different for a snack before bed, I had a couple of rice cakes ~ they are tomato and basil, and are very good.

I've made definate changes since Tuesday and not only has the swelling in My legs and feet gone down ALOT, but its much easier to walk now and I'm feeling better. Small things like what I've been doing above are going to make these long term changes easier because I'm not going cold turkey on anything, just limiting bad stuff to occasionally and stocking up more on the good stuff ........... I love this thread, its helping Me get healthier :-)

Anya....I'm so glad you posted this. :)

I read Starbuck's post and, as happy as I am that you achieved the results you want, it frankly scares the crap out of me to hear about people injecting themselves with stuff and living on severe calorie restriction just to lose weight.

My dearest friend has been on a lifetime of yo-yo dieting...often with very severe calorie restrictions. She's lost dramatic amounts of weight many times, only to regain it and then some.

After her last wildly calorie restricted diet (of about 500 calories a day) she ended up having to have her gall bladder removed, and suddenly started having thyroid problems....something she had never experienced before. In addition, her metabolism is destroyed, she's flirting with diabetes...and she is now bigger than she's ever been.

She's working with a nutritionist now (thank goodness) who is helping her learn to eat sensibly, and working with a counselor to try to sort through some of her issues with food....but her body is (probably) permanently damaged, according to her doctor, because of these kinds of diets. The doctor equated it to living through several famines...and the damage that does. She's left wishing that she had never done the diets, but it's not something she can take back.

There's no way you can get all of the nutrition you need each day in 500 calories. And starving and injecting yourself doesn't change your relationship to what you eat...it just forces your body to comply (temporarily). For me, this is like the lap band and stomach stapling....yes, it works....temporarily.

I don't want to sound like I'm coming down on anyone or criticizing their choices....I'm not. But I actually started this thread in response to a post about HCG and the 500 calorie diet....and, with respect, I'd prefer that that kind of advice stayed in that thread rather than this one.

This one is about healthy weight loss.

I definately agree with you Jo, its all about being healthy! I know that I've wanted many times to try some fad diet just to lose the weight, but now I look at them and think what about health benefits? Many diets may give you dramatic results but in the end, you'll just gain it back ten fold and thats not healthy in the slightest. Diets, gaining and losing weight etc is a serious thing and as much as we want to be healthier we also have to be careful. One day at a time, thats really all we can do :-)

Well said Jo!
I thought that too. This is about becoming & staying healthy.
Making Lifestyle changes.

I agree with you My friend, is all about lifestyle changes and making better choices for ourselves! :thumbsup:

Welcome Starbuck!

First of all, I would like to say congratulations on your weight loss. I bet you feel amazing!

Like you, I've also done the HCG diet. Well, not as extreme as yours with the 500 calorie a day restriction. We have 2 weight loss clinics here that pretty much specialize in this kind of weight loss. They combine HCG and B12, put you on Adipex (yeah, speed) and tell you to stay within 1000 - 1200 calories a day. You come in once a week, pay $14 for the shots & get a $10 week perscription... they weigh you and say "see you next week." Well, when I did this years ago, I lost an unbelievable 65 pounds.... only to gain it all back plus another 15 pounds.

Like others said, this was a temporary fix. I was bouncing off the walls, thanks to the speed, and just didn't eat. I NEVER learned why I overate, anything about triggers, or how to actually eat healthy foods without feeling deprived. I hate to admit it... I've tried this method at last 5 times in the past 7 years. FOR ME, it doesn't work longterm.

Its great that you lost 65 lbs hun, but that sucks that you gained so much back. I know it seems easy to do alot of these diets to get fast results, but in the end those fast results can do more damage to our bodies than taking the slow route ~ its true that slow and steady really does win the race :-)

Thanks for sharing this PinkieLee :)

My only foray into "chemical" weight loss was about 10 years ago. A co-worker was losing lots of weight, had tons of energy, was looking great....and she recommended I see her doctor.

I did, and he put me on some pills (can't remember the name for the life of me). I took them, and had a ton of energy, started to lose weight.

That went on (for me) for only about 3 weeks....until I found myself unable to get out of bed in the morning, sick, in tears at anything and everything....I was just an absolute wreck.

Turns out that the pills I was taking worked by stimulating the adrenal glands...so basically my co-worker and I were on an unending andrenaline rush. No wonder we felt great and lost weight!

The problem was that my adrenal glands were (evidently) over-taxed by the stress I was under in my life....and within 3 weeks I had exhausted them, and myself, completely.

I went off the pills, and it took months before I felt even remotely myself again.

In those months I was exhausted, could never get enough sleep to feel even remotely rested and dragged myself around through my single working mother life like a wet, dirty dishrag.

Guess what I relied on for energy and comfort?

Yep.

In the end my "diet pill" experiment made me lose 18 and then gain 45 pounds.

I'll stick to the giant salad lunch, greek yogurt and generally low-glycemic food plan I'm on. I'm losing weight and, more importantly, my blood sugars are good! :)

Geez I can only imagine how scary that was, I'd have not been happy to feel so dragged out that I couldn't even life My own life properly. Its amazing to Me that we can put these pills and stuff in our bodies hoping for a fast and quick fix, yet that always seems to backfire in the end. I've gone through it too, wanting a fast fix and then BAM!, it hits like a ton of bricks. Not fun thats for sure, but your on your way to being healthy one step at a time and I'm glad your doing it the right way Jo :gimmehug:

[ruffryder]

Hello everybody! Last night I had a grilled chicken from McDonald's minus the bread, sauce. I just ate the chicken and slice of tomato. I felt bad cause the damn breast felt oily. I'm guessing they cook it with oil. But I looked up the calories on the sandwich as a whole and it was only 300 so then I didn't feel so bad. Stepped on the scale this morning down 2 more lbs. This morning had a couple cups of dark roast coffee. . and now munching on a grissini breadstick and having some hot tea with stevia. For lunch I'm gonna cut a bell pepper in half stuff it with tuna and bake it. . then I'll have some cantaloupe for a snack. For dinner I'm thinking about trying some cut up chicken breast with a bit of low sodium soy sauce wrapped in romaine lettuce leaves. Have a good day all!

Is Subway the best option for fast food when eating healthy? What are you choices for restaurants and foods while you're dieting? Thanks.

[*Anya*]

Re: Scorp's post, I always weigh with zero clothing on, around the same time in the AM and before I eat or drink anything!

I try to always structure for success and a positive outcome to the best of my ability:)

That hot dog from a couple of days ago did come back to haunt me- 1/2 pound gain. I just said fuck it, I enjoyed it and got back on plan. I decided to not punish myself anymore for a rare derail, feels much better that way and keeps me positive and in a good headspace that way!

Hugs,

[Corkey]

What are EVOO and ponzu? And do you use lemon juice from an actual lemon or the kind from the store in a container?

Noting that Corkey and Ami are a bottomless well of useful information in and out of the kitchen.


Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) bottle or fresh squeezed are fine, shake the bottle first as it tends to separate. Ponzu is a umami (one of the flavor senses), it is soy sauce and lemon or lime juice and adds some citrus acid to any salads, meats for marinating and soups. It can be found next to soy sauce at your grocery store.

[Rockinonahigh]

Between doing some clean up around hear along with laundry I have been working out with my own exersise equipment,tho not as good as the gym will do just fine.Not shure how far I rode the bike cause th odometer thingy is broke,but I did get 25 minits of really hard rideing and 10 for a cool down..then I went outside to the stuff I have on the patio and did 70 crunchies,50 bench presses,came back in the house then did 90 steps on the stepper so then I finished out with doing some arm curles 30 each arm along with a fue other stretching moves to keep the old bod form tightining up.Tonight im haveing gumbo for dinner..my son ask me to make some so I did.Its chicken/cajun sasuage with a fue shrimp I found in the freezer,lots of trinity(onions,celery and bell pepper)Its ging to be served with wild rice.I am haveing some but eating a nice sise salad first with a glass of chrystle light.U can bet the left over gumbo will go in the freezer for another day.

[Kelt]

Money vs. weight loss


I just wanted to step in and say that money and weight loss or the regaining of health do not have to go hand in hand. There is a tendency out there to think that in order to lose weight we have to “gear up” for it, that first we need to get a gym membership, some fancy kitchen things, a new outfit, maybe some special equipment for at home and a whole host of other things. This is completely artificial, just a perceived need created by the diet industry; make no mistake, this a multi-billion dollar industry that manipulates all of us just as much as the folks who bring us the junk foods that get us here to begin with. Gyms as we know them today and processed packaged diet foods didn’t even exist 40 years ago,
(isn’t that about the time the “obesity crisis” began?).

Because of recent postings relating to a lack of money as a barrier I want us all to remember, knowledge is power on this one and we have several resources at hand. We have internet access and access to this group and many others as a result. We also have access to free online tracking tools which will keep us honest and in touch with what is really going on, it won’t tell our secrets or lie to us either. :) You can walk and do body weight exercises for free and as someone who has been there, if there is a significant amount of weight to lose you are less likely to injure yourself this way.

Learning is free; just be sure to consider the source and apply a little critical thinking.

*rant over*.


:theisland:


P.S. Getting out from behind the computer and taking action is free too!

[Corkey]

Absolutely Kelt! It doesn't cost a thing to get up off the couch or chair and move, ones choices on foods can however tend to cost more for better food. That I blame on over priced food stores such as whole pay check (Whole Foods) and some of the higher end what I call snooty stores. A good farmers market will cost less for better organic foods. If one lives in a zone where growing ones own food is an option, use it, seeds, dirt, a little know how and some water. Use gallon jugs for weights, use a neighborhood basket ball court, tennis court, neighbor hood swim hole.
I'm one of the lucky ones that has a treadmill at home and some weights, but they were cheep, not high end machines. I also have a gym membership that is paid for by my insurance plan on Medicare. I use it when I'm not sick and or hurt.
Getting healthy is cheeper than getting unhealthy, it's all about the choices we make for ourselves.

[Zimmeh]

I love Chik-Fil-A for a healthy snack on the run. I usually get the whole meal and give the fries away. I love their grilled chicken sandwich, without the mayo and tomatoes. McDonalds actually fries their chicken and hamburgers on the same grill, so it really isn't all that great for you. Subway is good, just stick to a healthy choice of sandwich, without the mayo. I like the Subway club with Swiss cheese, lettuce, pickles, mustard and cucumbers on the whole wheat bread is good. I normally just order a 6" sub; since my stomach has shrunk with my original weight loss. I have found adding spicy brown mustard to my sandwiches helps give it a kick and I have also decided to leave the potato chips at the grocery store. Another restaurant that I love to go to is a local salad restaurant here in Orlando. It is called, Greens and Grill and their menu is organic. I love ordering their create your own salad with five toppings and I usually get; cheese, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, eggs<hard boiled and chopped> and peas or corn. No salad dressing.

Congrats on the weight loss!

Zimmy

Hello everybody! Last night I had a grilled chicken from McDonald's minus the bread, sauce. I just ate the chicken and slice of tomato. I felt bad cause the damn breast felt oily. I'm guessing they cook it with oil. But I looked up the calories on the sandwich as a whole and it was only 300 so then I didn't feel so bad. Stepped on the scale this morning down 2 more lbs. This morning had a couple cups of dark roast coffee. . and now munching on a grissini breadstick and having some hot tea with stevia. For lunch I'm gonna cut a bell pepper in half stuff it with tuna and bake it. . then I'll have some cantaloupe for a snack. For dinner I'm thinking about trying some cut up chicken breast with a bit of low sodium soy sauce wrapped in romaine lettuce leaves. Have a good day all!

Is Subway the best option for fast food when eating healthy? What are you choices for restaurants and foods while you're dieting? Thanks.

[Thinker]

Glad to see everyone is doing well in here! Thanks for all the information and ideas provided. Last night before bed I ended my day with an ab workout I found as an app on my phone. It allows me to work my abs in a few different ways and feels good! This morning I weighed and I was down 2 lbs from yesterday so it's good to see my diet is working! Have a great day everybody! :tea:

Good for you for hittin' those abs!!! I am now doing situps everyday (do twisty kind to hit my obliques). I hate 'em but realize they're a necessary evil for me.

I toyed with it for years and then started having some health problems and decided it was worth giving it a shot. I believe that we can heal with vitamins and food. Its proven. Watch "Food Matters". Within a few months, probably sooner I balanced my blood sugar, lower my blood pressure and my cholesterol. I made a few diet changes and started juicing then added mega doses of vitamin c, fish oil and lots others. It changed my life truly.



Thanks for sharing your routine and congrats on all of the positive outcomes and changes. We're gradually looking into this whole juicing thing.

It certainly isn't easy, as we all know, but little changes will lead to bigger things and a much healthier lifestyle which is really what its all about ~ not necessarily numbers on a scale. And whoever is lucky enough to be your partner in the future will not see your weight as a bad thing, rather they will growl and appreciate every inch of you no matter what :rrose:

Yep, Matthew, baby steps.....one day at a time......and all that jazz. ;) Seriously....it does take time, and I think once we accept that we are more at peace with the process.


I wanted to share a free website dedicated to helping folks achieve a healthier life. SparkPeople is an incredible resource for diet, lifestyle, exercise and fitness, and even special health issues such as GERD or diabetes. It allows you to track your diet, exercise routine, weight and inches, and even makes suggestions regarding your diet and cardio/exercise. It provides weekly feedback in the form of a report, and offers lots encouragement, and gives you a way to measure your progress. For those with questions, and those wanting to have a little more structure and or help, check out SparkPeople (http://www.sparkpeople.com).

Very cool. Thanks for sharing!

I know I havent said much lately about to much,gess im going thrue a quiet spell or something..you know how life goes.

I hope all is well in your world. :)

When I stepped on the scales this morning, and I have reached my 1st personal goal !!!!! So now I am sitting here having my oatmeal pancake. YaY its friday!!!

That is so FANTASTIC! Congrats, Cowboi!!!

I'll stick to the giant salad lunch, greek yogurt and generally low-glycemic food plan I'm on. I'm losing weight and, more importantly, my blood sugars are good! :)

I think you're doing an amazing job, and you are leading by example. It was your commitment to making changes and posting in this thread that finally got me in here to go on my journey with you and others. Thank you for that. :)

Between doing some clean up around hear along with laundry I have been working out with my own exersise equipment,tho not as good as the gym will do just fine.

Heck yeah!! I use my own stuff too, and I find it to be just perfect for me. The bed frame holds my feet for situps. The floor provides resistance for pushups. Our neighborhood streets and hills are all I need for cardio, and my piece-it-together weight set does fine for everything else.

[Dominique]

Is Subway the best option for fast food when eating healthy? What are you choices for restaurants and foods while you're dieting? Thanks.

Something fun, or maybe not. Hope this helps with your choices.http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/flash/health/caloriecounter/caloriecounter.html

[Zimmeh]

Good Evening Everyone,

I love cooking with extra virgin olive oil! I put enough in the pan to cover the bottom and then I add my seasoning. It helps to evenly coat the chicken or cube steaks that I am cooking. I am really enjoying cooking dinner at home on my days off and having the left overs to take to work with me. If there is something that I want to have, I go for it. At my job, they have an employee cafeteria where they decide our lunches. They always have some type of dessert or pastry available. Today, instead of that pastry or brownie that was available, I went and bought a small bag of M&M's.

I am having this Immaculate type of cookies. They are all natural and very yummy! They have 80 calories per cookie and I am having three...

I agree with Jo Jo about the hormone therapy to loose weight. That doesn't sound healthy and having to much of one type of hormone, can alter your body in different ways. I don't believe in it and I will never try it. Give me the sidewalk, exercise bike, treadmill or weights and I am all good! Sweating is a good thing...

I will definately be in the gym later tonight!

Zimmy

[ruffryder]

Thanks everybody! Have a great healthy weekend! Today I bought garlic flavored fine red wine vinegar to try on my salads. It looks great no calories, no fat, no sugar, no sodium. I can't wait to try it! I found it at Walmart and it's their Great Value brand.

[JustJo]

Good morning everyone :)

I have two really awesome pieces of news to share....the first, and best, is that my son is home! :cheer: After almost 6 weeks gone, first to a Lead America program in Washington DC and then half the summer break with his father in NY, he's finally sitting on the couch, having a cup of tea and a big bowl of fresh cut fruit salad (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple, grapes and fresh blueberries) with me.

The second piece of amazing news is that, after one week in this new way of eating, with no hunger and no cravings for bad stuff.....I've lost a jaw-dropping 6 pounds! I know that rate of weight loss won't continue (and probably wouldn't be healthy), but I am blown away. The craziest part is that I am not measuring my fats as strictly as the guidelines say and am being downright generous with the salad dressing, fresh avocado, olives, etc., and I also ate dark chocolate (about 200 calories worth) on the day I wanted it.

Scoote and I were trying to figure out when I stopped using artificial sweeteners and diet sodas....maybe a month, maybe 6 weeks ago...and since then all kinds of crazy food cravings have vanished. Not only do I not crave sweets, but I'm not craving chips and baked stuff either.

Yesterday I was running late for lunch and grabbed 3 big handfuls of the organic baby greens I'm loving these days, a big blob of the homemade chicken salad that I made for Scoote, about half a can of canellini beans, HALF an avocado and slathered it all with my homemade dressing. It was drop dead delicious, and certainly didn't feel like "diet" anything. :)

Breakfast this morning....Greek yogurt (my new love), the aforementioned fresh fruit salad and coffee.....ahhhhhh. I feel good. :)

[Zimmeh]

Congrats Jo Jo!!!!!!!

Greek Yogurt is very delicious and with all of the protein in it, fills you up! Since I started training in my new position at work, I haven't been craving cookies, chips or candy...

Glad to read that Rooster is back and now you won't have to worry about him!

Have a great day,

Zimmy

Good morning everyone :)

I have two really awesome pieces of news to share....the first, and best, is that my son is home! :cheer: After almost 6 weeks gone, first to a Lead America program in Washington DC and then half the summer break with his father in NY, he's finally sitting on the couch, having a cup of tea and a big bowl of fresh cut fruit salad (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple, grapes and fresh blueberries) with me.

The second piece of amazing news is that, after one week in this new way of eating, with no hunger and no cravings for bad stuff.....I've lost a jaw-dropping 6 pounds! I know that rate of weight loss won't continue (and probably wouldn't be healthy), but I am blown away. The craziest part is that I am not measuring my fats as strictly as the guidelines say and am being downright generous with the salad dressing, fresh avocado, olives, etc., and I also ate dark chocolate (about 200 calories worth) on the day I wanted it.

Scoote and I were trying to figure out when I stopped using artificial sweeteners and diet sodas....maybe a month, maybe 6 weeks ago...and since then all kinds of crazy food cravings have vanished. Not only do I not crave sweets, but I'm not craving chips and baked stuff either.

Yesterday I was running late for lunch and grabbed 3 big handfuls of the organic baby greens I'm loving these days, a big blob of the homemade chicken salad that I made for Scoote, about half a can of canellini beans, HALF an avocado and slathered it all with my homemade dressing. It was drop dead delicious, and certainly didn't feel like "diet" anything. :)

Breakfast this morning....Greek yogurt (my new love), the aforementioned fresh fruit salad and coffee.....ahhhhhh. I feel good. :)

[Cowboi]

I was up early this morning. Had my oatmeal pancake, prework out shake and was off to the gym. Had a great workout(I love it when the gym is empty). Had my post work out protein shake, and am having some scrambled egg with with salsa now.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

[Zimmeh]

I am having cold Oatmeal Squares Cereal sans the milk and coffee for breakfast this morning! My workout, will be walking around the BJ's Wholesale Club this afternoon with my roommate..I added more music to my Exercise playlist on the Vevo app for the iPhone. I added, Kat DeLuna to the mix and I have found trying to keep up with her is hard as hell, but I will do it!

Have a great day,

Zimmy

[*Anya*]

Just woke up, need to weigh, etc. So this is a quickie: all of you are inspiring but I must give props and a big "shout-out" to Jo and Zimmy!

You two are awesome and I love your posts!!

Kudos,

[Leigh]

I just wanted to come in and say hi to everyone; I've only been allowing Myself one small glass of pop per day since wednesday, and having other things the rest of the time (mostly water, but also some milk and juice). I just had some red grapes and apple slices for breakfast along with some water; the swelling in My legs and feet has pretty much all disappeared and its alot easier to walk around now. I'm feeling overall alot better and just bought the brand new Weight Watchers magazine for September/October which I've already started to investigate ~ I'm enjoying it so far and can't wait to try new tips :-)

[Anastasia]

[warning: sappiness is about to ensue]

First off, I would like to extend a hearty congratulations to Jo, Zimmy, and Matthew for their lifechanging sucesses this week. It is very inpiring to read about people taking back control of their own health.

Also, thank you to Scorp for your honest account of your week and helping me remember that this is not going to be perfect and small setbacks do not have to be license to go batshit crazy. If I was capable of just stopping this behavior forever I would have done it a long time ago.

Lastly, thank you to everyone for your very kind responses to my first post. Sadly, 'Fuck it Day' continues, but not at full binge status. I will have to take my lumps at weigh in on Monday, but I have already decided that skipping weigh in to try to pretend that I was not engaged in bingeing behavior will not help me realize my goals.

Nor will sneaking out to the grocery store at 9 o'clock at night, buying pieces of cake the size of my head, and eating them in my car.... Gotta work on that.

[ruffryder]

Good day everybody! After 1 week sticking to my diet I lost 10 lbs. . . I was so wanting some birthday cake and yesterday I was totally craving mexican food. I saw some chocolates at the store, quickly looked away smiling not even craving it. I didn't cave to any temptations. I've stayed on my path and am happy. I feel like I have more energy. I was one to drink a lot of pepsi and I haven't missed it. . This morning I had apple slices and dark roast coffee. I'm off to figure out lunch which is probably crab meat and cucumber slices drizzled in vinegar dressing.

[Scorp]

Did I mention that I'm in love with fuji apples??!!!!!! Sweet and satifsying...

Yep, I found a whole new appreciation for these delicious healthy snacks.

[nycfem]

Really useful article:

http://health.yahoo.net/experts/menshealth/is-losing-weight-fast-dangerous

[ruffryder]

anyone lift weights? Someone told me yesterday instead of doing sets or 3 sets with a certain amount of reps one should start with as many as one can do in the first rep. wait 10 seconds go again with how many you can till you can't . wait 10 seconds and continue on this way. and the reason they said was because if you're doing a certain amount in your reps your muscles get used to it and you aren't really working them. and this other way you are shocking your muscles and they are having to adjust and work. . and it doesn't matter the weight only how it is done. so anyone heard of this or what is your routine? I am on a low calorie diet right now so I'm not hitting the gym as much and just sticking to an ab workout for now. But I cannot wait to get back into basketball and weights.

[Zimmeh]

I bought nectarines at the grocery store! I haven't had one yet...

Zimmy

Did I mention that I'm in love with fuji apples??!!!!!! Sweet and satifsying...

Yep, I found a whole new appreciation for these delicious healthy snacks.

[Rockinonahigh]

This morning I weighed at I finaly made one of my first mini weight goals..I now am weighing in a t 250..50 more to go to my goal weigh.With all the working out ive been doing I should be starting to look like some sort of weight lifter but just pretty much look the same just less of,wich im not complaning about,I just thought the changes would be better.I know sooner or later it will happen over time.Today im takeing the day off from working out but am doing stretches a couple times a day to keep from being stiff in the joints.Tomorrow im going to give the ti-chi tape I bought a try just for fun and see how it goes..I hear its good for lots of things.Ya'll have a great day...stay cool.

[Medusa]

I have had a stupid-crazy schedule this week and haven't been around as much as I'd like and couple that with mental exhaustion and my usual pep is languishing away under the couch. :seeingstars:

Still, I've done well this week with cravings and food. Had a few days at work where I had to eat at the cafe and was a little apprehensive about the choices. Bless the cook's heart but she literally drowns the veggies in butter and adds cheese to almost everything.
Still, I was able to get a steamed veggie medley one day with a side of brown rice and another day I raided the salad bar. The only decent things on the salad bar were the lettuce mix, carrots, bell peppers, and onion. The rest of it was cheese, olives, egg, and other stuff I'm not too crazy about.

I sneaked a peak yesterday and I weighed in at 295. I began my journey at 335. I'm officially free of 40 pounds forever. :)
I've had to battle back and forth with these 5 pounds for a few weeks now because my body seems to be freaked out that I'm firmly under 300 for the first time in years. Still, I could ramp up my exercise this coming week and make sure that my lunches aren't too carb-loaded.

I have a goal dress for the Reunion that I might not make it into and I'm actually ok with that knowing that it's just another milestone that might come a little later than expected.

My bottom line is that this weight has to go bye-bye forever. I'm tired of yo-yo dieting and being out of control and since I started this, I feel very much in control of my desires even when I have to give the control over to the part of me who will force the apple when fat-me really wants some cake and ice cream. It's all choices.

I revolve around the thought that every single thing I put in my mouth is a choice. I've gotten into the habit of asking myself "Is this a good choice?" or "Is there a better choice" or "Am I making this choice or am I on autopilot". I've been able to catch myself in autopilot moments more and more and am happy that they are getting fewer and further in between.

My waist has gone down 7 inches since I started. I'm the incredible shrinking woman.

Someone that I barely know at work asked me if I had gastric bypass. :|
My reply, "No, I haven't but that's really a rude question to ask someone you don't know."

:)

[Medusa]

Also - Here is a little trick I've been relying on:

http://www.buythecase.net/uploads/products/200/2240000033.jpg

This also comes in a butter flavor and can save you a TON of calories and fat on things like grilled corn or steamed broccoli!

Instead of drowning your steamed broccoli in butter and cheese, just sprinkle a little of the above and it's pretty damn good!

The butter sprinkles are also good in oatmeal, on popcorn, and lots of other veggies.

[Zimmeh]

I'm thinking of picking up a vegan Indian cookbook.

Zimmy

[Kelt]

Really useful article:

http://health.yahoo.net/experts/menshealth/is-losing-weight-fast-dangerous

Good article, I have been on those marks almost exactly, looks like I should have an extra 90 calories per day though; as soon as crossing from obese to overweight the weight loss went to those numbers listed. It's as though the body just knows right when to adjust the burners!

Thanks for the link. Hope your vacation is going well!

:balloon:

[Kelt]

I'm thinking of picking up a vegan Indian cookbook.

Zimmy

Indian food is great. If you like some zest in there I have "Vegan Fire & Spice" by Robert Robertson which has recipes from India as well as African, Middle Eastern countries, Caribbean and some others as well.

Whatever you pick up, if you have trouble locating some of the more exotic spices World Spice (http://www.worldspice.com/) is a great resource. Their quality is top notch and if you have any spice questions just ring them up, very knowledgable staff. :)

[Queerasfck]

Only a 8 oz loss today at my weigh in, but I'm excited! It was a hellacious week, probably one of the worst for me ever, professionally speaking and I didn't freak out and eat 21 lbs of Mac and Cheese or anything crazy. Just kept moving forward. So, I have lost 18 lbs so far. I'm excited! My 36 Levis are calling me!!!!


To everyone posting here, stay the course and be strong!!! You can do it!

[Corkey]

Indian food is great. If you like some zest in there I have "Vegan Fire & Spice" by Robert Robertson which has recipes from India as well as African, Middle Eastern countries, Caribbean and some others as well.

Whatever you pick up, if you have trouble locating some of the more exotic spices World Spice (http://www.worldspice.com/) is a great resource. Their quality is top notch and if you have any spice questions just ring them up, very knowledgable staff. :)




A little how too vid on making you own garam masala
http://video.about.com/indianfood/Garam-Masala.htm

[Sachita]

We're looking at juicers. To you......and others......what should we be looking for (we're beginners)? Brands you recommend?




Welcome to the thread!!! You're in the right place, and we're all happy you are here. :)


Although there are many juicers and prices you'll waste a lot of producer picking the wrong one. For instance I use to have a Juice Man and the pulp was soaking meaning it didn't do it's job. I personally like Breville and have a juice fountain. This one is 199.00
Amazon.com: Breville JE98XL Juice Fountain Plus 850-Watt Juicing Machine: Kitchen & Dining


also juicing on a budget

http://jointhereboot.com/rebooting-on-a-budget/

[Sachita]

Absolutely Kelt! It doesn't cost a thing to get up off the couch or chair and move, ones choices on foods can however tend to cost more for better food. That I blame on over priced food stores such as whole pay check (Whole Foods) and some of the higher end what I call snooty stores. A good farmers market will cost less for better organic foods. If one lives in a zone where growing ones own food is an option, use it, seeds, dirt, a little know how and some water. Use gallon jugs for weights, use a neighborhood basket ball court, tennis court, neighbor hood swim hole.
I'm one of the lucky ones that has a treadmill at home and some weights, but they were cheep, not high end machines. I also have a gym membership that is paid for by my insurance plan on Medicare. I use it when I'm not sick and or hurt.
Getting healthy is cheeper than getting unhealthy, it's all about the choices we make for ourselves.

Excellent post Corky


I don't do the gym. It takes too long to get there and I hate working out. Walking and and swimming I love. The gallon jugs is good. I lift 2 gallon feed buckets when watering my dogs.

Something really fun that burns a lot of calories is Zumba. You can do this at home.

[Inked_Trinity]

I have had a nagging elbow injury for a couple of months now. I can't seem to get it to heal. Probably because I refuse to take the 6 weeks off from the gym. Last night a good friend did some trigger point injections in it for me, she works at a pain management clinic. It feels a whole lot better but is really aching this morning from the injections. So.......no gym for me today. :sigh:

[Zimmeh]

Get to feeling better!

Zimmy

I have had a nagging elbow injury for a couple of months now. I can't seem to get it to heal. Probably because I refuse to take the 6 weeks off from the gym. Last night a good friend did some trigger point injections in it for me, she works at a pain management clinic. It feels a whole lot better but is really aching this morning from the injections. So.......no gym for me today. :sigh:

[Zimmeh]

Good Morning Everyone,

Thank you Sachita and Corkey on the information on juicing. I was watching the movie, "Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead" yesterday on NetFlix. The guy on the movie, teaches people about juicing and it is something that I am thinking about trying.

Have a great day,

Zimmy

[ruffryder]

Good morning! Happy Sun Day! :coffee:

So I was on this strict diet that allowed fish/ shrimp/ chicken breast 2 cups of fresh vegetables and 2 cups of fresh fruits a day. I did it for a week and lost an amazing 10 lbs. However I was missing my beef! and I had certain cravings. . This diet was very low in calories and didn't allow for much of a workout due to low energy. . Sooo I'm dumping this particular diet. I know I can lose the weight and what I need to do to keep on a healthy food diet. I will eat what i want but in smaller portions and watch my calories, fat, and sugar intake and be able to workout more. I am hoping to stay about 1200 calories a day and see what happens. I allowed myself some bites of cake this morning and a cup of fat free milk. I also am gonna make some homemade corn tortilla cheese enchiladas with some steak meat today. something my diet wouldn't allow. haha.. I feel good and I'll keep on with healthy choices, more fresh fruits, more fresh vegetables, and plain ol water as a part of my everyday diet without having to restrict myself on cravings. I will continue to keep you all updated.

[ruffryder]

I bought some Pepsi Max today to try it out. Anyone else drink this or anything similar? What do you think of it? thanks..

[JustJo]

Happy Sunday healthy friends :)

Well, I'm proud of myself today. I was stressed out, upset, hurt, and a little angry this morning...and had to go to the Walgreens for the couple of school supplies I forgot. It sits right next to the McDonald's...with the drive thru beckoning as I turn in.

I was really wanting a Big Mac and fries. Not because I was craving it....but from all the old "soothe with food" tapes that were playing in my head.

I actually sat in the Walgreen's parking lot for a few minutes and had a talk with myself...and ended up with "okay Jo....you're hurt...so to fix it, you're going to hurt yourself more with food that you really don't want?"

Hmmmm. Sometimes my self makes sense when I give it time.

I got the school supplies and drove home...and in a few minutes I'll make myself a nice open-faced tuna sandwich on whole wheat instead with some green olives on the side....maybe some fruit salad for dessert. :)

[Sachita]

oooooooooooooooooo what a good find!

I had been researching this and decided to give it a try.

http://www.optimallyorganic.com/Cacao.htm

Years ago I sold tropical fruit trees including cacao (Theobrama) and I noticed a lot of people throughout the US purchased these to grow in greenhouses. They are subtropical understory plants/trees so not so easy to grow. Anyhow there were discussions about the properties of raw cacao and almost everyone has heard this about chocolate, however once heated many of the properties disappear.

So I ordered a few pounds. It arrived and I ate a handful. It takes more like eating coffee beans with a hint of coco. About 20 min later I had this wonderful calm come over me and I felt it in my whole body. The rest of the day i had no food craves and did not feel very hungry at all. I'm in love with this stuff! BUT I don't like eating it. So today I ground it up fine, made toast, put extra virgin coconut oil (another great oil for weight loss and nutrition) and added thr ground cacao to the top. It was very good.

Between juicing and finding this I'm feeling pretty damn good!

[sylvie]

my weigh in, finally, is tomorrow - i can't wait!

3 months ago, i bought some new scrub shirts (uniforms) for work - but was disappointed when my usual size was too small for me now. i kept those shirts, and guess what ???? i can now wear them!!!!! YAAAAAAAAAAAY!

i put one on yesterday, and although not as loose as i want, i can get them on and wear them, they're a lil loose.. but a bit snugger than i usually wear..just not used to showing my curves so much, LOL.

yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay, that felt GREAT!
ive been noticing so many changes in me lately as well...all positive!
will update with my weight loss to date tomorrow after my weigh in..

[JustJo]

Scoote and I did grocery shopping today....a trip to Publix for a couple things, a trip to BJ's for "the big stuff" and meat....and the veggie stand for.... (drum roll please)....

watermelon
pineapple
pluots
strawberries
tomatoes
broccoli
bean sprouts
fresh green beans
cauliflower
potatoes
corn on the cob
lettuce
radishes
cucumbers
red peppers
and I know there was more but I just can't remember :)

[Medusa]

I checked my bp at one of those supermarket things. I was pretty excited to see these numbers but I'm going to go to the doc and get them to check it because these numbers cant be right.

http://i618.photobucket.com/albums/tt266/butchfemmeplanet/bloodpressure.jpg

*IF* these numbers are right, it means I'm firmly out of "scary stroke territory".

:)
ETA: 3 months ago my "normal" range would have been 177/97 with a resting pulse of 110.

[Sachita]

I checked my bp at one of those supermarket things. I was pretty excited to see these numbers but I'm going to go to the doc and get them to check it because these numbers cant be right.

http://i618.photobucket.com/albums/tt266/butchfemmeplanet/bloodpressure.jpg

*IF* these numbers are right, it means I'm firmly out of "scary stroke territory".

:)
ETA: 3 months ago my "normal" range would have been 177/97 with a resting pulse of 110.

thats awesome! wow

you should see if there is a wellness place in your area that has a migun table. Migun means beautiful health. Combining heat, accupressure massage and infrared technology, this bed is a tool that is clinically proven to balance blood sugar, lower blood pressure and burn 600 calories in a half hour.

This is their main site although not very helpful, a US practioner can help you.

http://www.migunworld.com/virtual_demonstration.php

[Rockinonahigh]

I checked my bp at one of those supermarket things. I was pretty excited to see these numbers but I'm going to go to the doc and get them to check it because these numbers cant be right.

http://i618.photobucket.com/albums/tt266/butchfemmeplanet/bloodpressure.jpg

*IF* these numbers are right, it means I'm firmly out of "scary stroke territory".

:)
ETA: 3 months ago my "normal" range would have been 177/97 with a resting pulse of 110.

Fantastic read out...a check at the docs or the fire department is a good way to get a readings check.Recently I was at the ER with my bad shoulder prob,and you know that are gonna check the bp just in case its bad so mine was121/59 w/rp being 61 not to shabby for 64yrso.

[ruffryder]

Hey everybody. I made delicious enchiladas for dinner.

White Corn Tortillas - 45 calories each (I had 2)
Red Enchilada Sauce - 40 calories per 1/2 cup
2% Sharp Cheddar Cheese - 90 calories per 1/4 cup
Sirloin Steak (fat removed) - 100 gr or 3.5 oz = 136 calories which I probably used half of that if even on 2 enchiladas that I ate.
Diced Onions - 4 calories

No oil used. Put red enchilada sauce (you can find this in store made in can) in a pan to warm. Warm tortillas in microwave, dip them in sauce, add filling of cheese, meat, onions. Roll up and put on a pan to bake. You can add more red sauce on top and more cheese if you wish. Of course the less the better! haha.

All the frozen enchilada meals I looked at the store were more calories than just making them myself. Plus I tend to like mine with either steak, chicken or hamburger and cheese.

I also made a homemade salsa to put on top just blended up fresh tomatoes, jalapenos, onions, and season (garlic salt, a salt substitute, black pepper)

Enjoy!

[Zimmeh]

Good Evening Everyone


Congrats to Medusa and Rockin on the low bp counts! I need to have mine checked again, but I have to wait until my insurance starts to go. I know two years ago, my check up was good.

I had sauteed chicken tenderloins cooked in EVOO, garlic salt, crushed red pepper and Italian seasonings. I cooked up some linguine and used the EVOO as a sauce for it and made homemade garlic bread. Now I am making homemade carrot cake in a bundt pan, with a little bit of vanilla frosting on the top and a sprinkle of nutmeg on top.

Have a great night!

Zimmy

[Zimmeh]

Good Evening Jo Jo,

If you like SoyMilk, Publix has it on sale this week. I just picked up two half gallons of the Silk Chocolate SoyMilk for $5 total.

Have a great day,

Zimmy

Scoote and I did grocery shopping today....a trip to Publix for a couple things, a trip to BJ's for "the big stuff" and meat....and the veggie stand for.... (drum roll please)....

watermelon
pineapple
pluots
strawberries
tomatoes
broccoli
bean sprouts
fresh green beans
cauliflower
potatoes
corn on the cob
lettuce
radishes
cucumbers
red peppers
and I know there was more but I just can't remember :)

[Lizzy]

I bought some Pepsi Max today to try it out. Anyone else drink this or anything similar? What do you think of it? thanks..

I have pretty much given up drinking soda but when I do give in and have one I love Coke Zero. On a day to day basis I have been drinking Crystal light Rasberry Ice.It is so good but I am not happy about the color they make that stuff as I am always paranoid I am going to spill it, it stains like crazy!

[Kelt]

oooooooooooooooooo what a good find!

I had been researching this and decided to give it a try.

http://www.optimallyorganic.com/Cacao.htm

Years ago I sold tropical fruit trees including cacao (Theobrama) and I noticed a lot of people throughout the US purchased these to grow in greenhouses. They are subtropical understory plants/trees so not so easy to grow. Anyhow there were discussions about the properties of raw cacao and almost everyone has heard this about chocolate, however once heated many of the properties disappear.

So I ordered a few pounds. It arrived and I ate a handful. It takes more like eating coffee beans with a hint of coco. About 20 min later I had this wonderful calm come over me and I felt it in my whole body. The rest of the day i had no food craves and did not feel very hungry at all. I'm in love with this stuff! BUT I don't like eating it. So today I ground it up fine, made toast, put extra virgin coconut oil (another great oil for weight loss and nutrition) and added thr ground cacao to the top. It was very good.

Between juicing and finding this I'm feeling pretty damn good!

This sounds very interesting, quite the set of compounds listed. I may well have to try these out. Thanks for the tip!

[Softly]

29.8 pounds lost lol
I wanted to reach 30 by now, but oh well!
(f) hope you all are having a wonderful weekend :)

[Zimmeh]

Congrats Softly!!!

Zimmy

29.8 pounds lost lol
I wanted to reach 30 by now, but oh well!
(f) hope you all are having a wonderful weekend :)

[bigbutchmistie]

I am subscribing to this thread due to the fact that in the last few weeks I have started having swollen feet where I cant get my shoes on. I have been borderline diabetes and high blood pressure for awhile now. I just have this superman complex since leaving the hospital a few years ago after nearly dying.

Its easier with my work schedule to just eat out. But its not the eating out that is bad. Its the quanity and quality of food I am eating.

Now that I have been moved and getting settled in the new place. I have to start eating right. I would welcome some suggestion since I cant stand vegetables. Maybe V8 LOL

[Sachita]

Good Morning Everyone,

Thank you Sachita and Corkey on the information on juicing. I was watching the movie, "Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead" yesterday on NetFlix. The guy on the movie, teaches people about juicing and it is something that I am thinking about trying.

Have a great day,

Zimmy

you're welcome. Also check out
http://jointhereboot.com/reboot-program/

for simple programs. You're welcome to msg me for help and support. Next monday i'll try a 10 day green juice fast. This means no coffee nadda nothing but juice but I am preparing myself. Its good to have a buddy.

[Sachita]

I am subscribing to this thread due to the fact that in the last few weeks I have started having swollen feet where I cant get my shoes on. I have been borderline diabetes and high blood pressure for awhile now. I just have this superman complex since leaving the hospital a few years ago after nearly dying.

Its easier with my work schedule to just eat out. But its not the eating out that is bad. Its the quanity and quality of food I am eating.

Now that I have been moved and getting settled in the new place. I have to start eating right. I would welcome some suggestion since I cant stand vegetables. Maybe V8 LOL

thats why juicing is good. You just down it. Plus you can add apples, pears, lemon, different things to find the taste you need. Don't do v-8.

Mia's sister is 5 years old. I can't get her to eat any veggies but I can juice fruit like berries with veggies and she'll drink it.

[Zimmeh]

Good Evening BBM,

I love broccoli, carrots, yellow corn, sweet peas, black beans, bell peppers. I like to buy the frozen vegetables, this way I can season them my way. Im not a big fan of V8. Add plain water to your diet and watch how much salt and fried foods you consume.

Good luck and we all will be here to help you out!

Zimmy

I am subscribing to this thread due to the fact that in the last few weeks I have started having swollen feet where I cant get my shoes on. I have been borderline diabetes and high blood pressure for awhile now. I just have this superman complex since leaving the hospital a few years ago after nearly dying.

Its easier with my work schedule to just eat out. But its not the eating out that is bad. Its the quanity and quality of food I am eating.

Now that I have been moved and getting settled in the new place. I have to start eating right. I would welcome some suggestion since I cant stand vegetables. Maybe V8 LOL

[Sachita]

also eat lots of mushrooms cooked with food. They are very filling and low calories.

[bigbutchmistie]

Thanks Zimmy and Sachita :) I appreciate it. I am knocking out the fast food completely and definitely water.... :) Its gonna be tough at first but hey, it will be worth it in the long run! Thanks again :)

[bigbutchmistie]

also eat lots of mushrooms cooked with food. They are very filling and low calories.

Thats good to know love mushrooms. Also, since I am not a cook how can I grill some chicken on a george foreman with great taste? :)

[Sachita]

Thanks Zimmy and Sachita :) I appreciate it. I am knocking out the fast food completely and definitely water.... :) Its gonna be tough at first but hey, it will be worth it in the long run! Thanks again :)

how about start with a 3 hour diet. eat every three hours but no more then 8 oz. There are quite a few frozen dinners that are 8oz. As you lose weight make healthier choices.

Always keep food with you to avoid snacking. If I run errands I take food with me.

[Zimmeh]

If you need to chat, I'll be around. Just get to feeling better! I love Boar's Head Ovengold turkey breast with spicy brown mustard, 2% Swiss cheese and lettuce on whole wheat bread. I also keep either the Weight Watchers, Lean Cuisine or Healthy Choice dinners in my freezer for the nights when I work late. I also have a salad without the dressing and the flavors of the salad ingredients make the dressing.

Zimmy

Thanks Zimmy and Sachita :) I appreciate it. I am knocking out the fast food completely and definitely water.... :) Its gonna be tough at first but hey, it will be worth it in the long run! Thanks again :)

[bigbutchmistie]

how about start with a 3 hour diet. eat every three hours but no more then 8 oz. There are quite a few frozen dinners that are 8oz. As you lose weight make healthier choices.

Always keep food with you to avoid snacking. If I run errands I take food with me.

Thats a great idea :) Thank You!

[bigbutchmistie]

If you need to chat, I'll be around. Just get to feeling better! I love Boar's Head Ovengold turkey breast with spicy brown mustard, 2% Swiss cheese and lettuce on whole wheat bread. I also keep either the Weight Watchers, Lean Cuisine or Healthy Choice dinners in my freezer for the nights when I work late. I also have a salad without the dressing and the flavors of the salad ingredients make the dressing.

Zimmy



Thats another great idea. But I am curious I have always thought any kind of bread was bad? :)

[Zimmeh]

I season the meat before I put it in the George Foreman grill. I just season one side of the meat.

Zimmy

Thats good to know love mushrooms. Also, since I am not a cook how can I grill some chicken on a george foreman with great taste? :)

[bigbutchmistie]

I season the meat before I put it in the George Foreman grill. I just season one side of the meat.

Zimmy

Ok I have done that but it came out tough not grilled? Maybe I am stupid lol but I cant cook Just sayin! LOL

[Zimmeh]

White bread is not good for you. When you buying bread, look for *unbrominated whole wheat unbleached flour*. I like the Pepperidge Farm German Dark Wheat bread.

Zimmy

Thats another great idea. But I am curious I have always thought any kind of bread was bad? :)

[bigbutchmistie]

Taking notes Zimmy :) Thanks!

[Zimmeh]

I always wash the meat off before I season it. I let it thaw out in the refrigerator overnight.

Zimmy

Ok I have done that but it came out tough not grilled? Maybe I am stupid lol but I cant cook Just sayin! LOL

[Zimmeh]

Your welcome! What ever you do, don't skip a meal. I like having Fiber One bars at my desk when I'm at work or in my purse.

Zimmy

Taking notes Zimmy :) Thanks!

[bigbutchmistie]

Taking notes still :) So is yogurt good for you?

[Zimmeh]

Greek yogurt is very good and I like the Chobani brand. It has less sugar and is very high in protein.

Zimmy

Taking notes still :) So is yogurt good for you?

[Zimmeh]

I will definitely take a look at the website tomorrow.

Have a great night and thank you for the information!!!

Zimmy

you're welcome. Also check out
http://jointhereboot.com/reboot-program/

for simple programs. You're welcome to msg me for help and support. Next monday i'll try a 10 day green juice fast. This means no coffee nadda nothing but juice but I am preparing myself. Its good to have a buddy.

[moxie]

I am subscribing to this thread due to the fact that in the last few weeks I have started having swollen feet where I cant get my shoes on. I have been borderline diabetes and high blood pressure for awhile now. I just have this superman complex since leaving the hospital a few years ago after nearly dying.

Its easier with my work schedule to just eat out. But its not the eating out that is bad. Its the quanity and quality of food I am eating.

Now that I have been moved and getting settled in the new place. I have to start eating right. I would welcome some suggestion since I cant stand vegetables. Maybe V8 LOL

I experienced this is my last job. The hours were not regular and I worked a lot. What I tried to do was cook a bunch on a day off so that I knew if I just came home for dinner I wouldn't have to take a lot of effort to eat. That would keep me from going in drive-thrus.

Now I have a regular schedule and can cook nightly; however, I don't have access to the same selections of food that I did in my old town. Not a lot of produce selection, or spices, or things that I considered staples. I have to drive at least an hour to buy things like feta cheese and corn tortillas.

I told myself with this move, it's a chance to make me into the person I want to be. I have stopped drinking soda at the levels I was before. I get one a day but I get it with extra ice. And I am drinking at least 48 oz of water, mostly when I get off of work.But it has to be bottled water for two reasons: 1. the water supply here isn't safe
2. There is something psychological about it being in a bottle where I will drink more. I can take the water out of the bottle and put it in a glass and I won't drink as much.

I am also taking my lunch every day to work, which with my last job and the hours being so irregular I sometimes wouldn't eat lunch and when I did it would be drive-thru as I saw my clients in their homes. I also never ate breakfast because it would make my stomach hurt. But with my schedule being more regular, I have started eating breakfast. My breakfasts consist of a bagel with light cream cheese on the weekends and during the week a Fiber One Oats and Chocolate bar. When shopping out of state this weekend I also got some greek yogurt with honey on the bottom. If I like it, I will start having that for breakfast.

I am also not a fan of most veggies, so sometimes I will drink a small can of V8 but the best way for me to eat the veggies is to make a soup out of them and use the immersion blender and I get the tastes without the texture differences that bother me.

I've also started trying new things that I didn't think I liked. One of them being almonds. You can eat few of them and feel full and the Chili-Lime ones I found during my shopping trip are sooooo good.

All of this, which aren't huge changes, is helping my immensely. I am sleeping better, I am feeling better (which I contribute to the water intake), clothes are fitting differently. I haven't weighed myself because I don't want it to get me down. I am happy with feeling better and clothes fitting better.

[Rockinonahigh]

I have been eating whole wheat bread for a long time the only time I ever eat white bread is if I every once and a while either bake my own bread or go to the bakery for hard crust french bread,white sandwitch bread dose not ever end up in my house.I also keep grilled chicken brest in the fridge so f I want to snack on it or make a sandwich I have it,I also have lots of calorie free veggies in the fridge to snack on right along with bowles of things to make a salad with.Also I am makeing my own derssing with various vinagaretts where I can add diffrent flavors to them to keep it intresting.
Im doing a restricted carb diet..not adkins where u cant hardly have any carbs but the diabetic plan the doc gave me,I can have as much as 130 carbs a day but usely around 70 some carbs a day even tho sometimes I stretch it to the limit if I hav something thet has more carbs than I should have,the next fue days I eat salads and veggies so at the end of the week it all averages out.I also test three times a week to see that im useing carbs the right way.So far my test have run betweek 85 wich means I am really hungry when I get up and 111 when I use up my carbs or eat after 9pm.Plus im working out a lot so I really need to keep my emging running by not getting to hungry cause then I run the risk of over eating when I do eat.

[JustJo]

Welcome BigButchMistie....so glad you joined us! :)

I see you're already getting lots of good advice. I'm a big advocate of making small, progressive changes. Usually when we try to do everything at once, it's a lot harder to stick to.

Cutting out fast food and drinking more water is a fantastic place to start. Like Zimmy, I've become a huge fan of the greek yogurt. The first time I tried it, I didn't like it...but I tried a different brand and that made all the difference. I like the Oikos (Stoneyfield) Organic non-fat greek yogurt...although I like the ones with fruit at the bottom (and not the honey or fig flavors :) ). Sometimes it just takes experimenting.

If you're not a veggie fan, I'd say drinking a V8 is better than no veggies at all. I love puregrrl's idea about the soup too....you get all the goodness that way.

Stick around and keep trying different things. You've got lots of support here!

[nycfem]

Some suggestions:
1) Start drinking only water (no other kind of beverage). This can lead to 30 pounds off all by itself.
2) Stop eating any of the white stuff and switch to 100% whole wheat, whole grain. Quit white bread/white rice entirely. Bad for those with diabetic issues.
3) Keep a daily journal of everything you eat and the times and how you feel. This alone can make a big difference in it's weird, magical way.
4) Go right to a doctor. You may need some medication to keep you safe along the way. I'm worried for you, my friend.
5) Read every post on this thread. It's full of useful information and support. Make it a part of your daily routine.

:rrose:


I am subscribing to this thread due to the fact that in the last few weeks I have started having swollen feet where I cant get my shoes on. I have been borderline diabetes and high blood pressure for awhile now. I just have this superman complex since leaving the hospital a few years ago after nearly dying.

Its easier with my work schedule to just eat out. But its not the eating out that is bad. Its the quanity and quality of food I am eating.

Now that I have been moved and getting settled in the new place. I have to start eating right. I would welcome some suggestion since I cant stand vegetables. Maybe V8 LOL

[Medusa]

This is my menu for today:

Breakfast:
Mixed berry smoothie:
1/2 c mixed berries
1/2 banana
1/2 c Greek vanilla yogurt
splash of sugar-free OJ
lots of ice
Total: 2 pts


Mid-morning snack:
2 small plums
Total: 0 pts

Lunch:
Turkey sandwich:
2 slices of very thin wheat bread
2 thin slices of cajun-smoked turkey
1 slice of "buffalo" cheese
lots of lettuce
regular mustard
Also on the side - Fuji Apple
Fiber one bar
a handful of green seedless grapes
Total: 9 pts

Mid-afternoon snack:
a few of those Quakes chocolate mini rice cakes
Total: 2 pts

Dinner:
Grilled chicken breast marinated in smokey bbq seasoning
side salad with carrots and lite ranch dressing
grilled bell peppers and onion
grilled new potatoes
steamed asparagus with lemon zest and garlic
Total: 7 pts

Snack before bed:
Sugar-free banana popsicle
Total: 0 pts

Total points for the day: 20 points

As you can see, I kinda graze all day long and use fruits and veggies to bulk up my diet. Plus, fruits and veggies are great for your needed fiber intake.
I also drink water all day long and might add a random Fuze drink (0 pts) if I'm feeling like I want something different.

[nycfem]

As an insomniac, sleep is always an issue for me.

From a Yahoo pop-up article:

"People who don't get enough sleep are more likely to have health issues. People who don't get enough sleep are 15 percent more likely to have a stroke and 48 percent more likely to develop or pass away from heart disease. Additionally, people who sleep four hours or less each night have a 75 percent higher chance of being obese due to the fact that sleep deprivation can affect appetite hormones."

[Leigh]

I admit that I'm terrible for getting sleep; since My parents don't go to bed until late and I don't have much alone time I tend t go to bed around 1am or 2am and am up by no later than 8am ~ and I'm SO tired through the day its not even funny but its My own fault. I'm getting better and not always staying up so late but its a habit thats really hard to break. I'll be glad when My sister goes back to school so that I can sleep in again, though I'm gonna work to stick to a routine that doesn't find Me sleeping until noon or 1pm. I will also be happier when I get more day time to Myself so that I can actually go for more walks during the daytime ~ hope everyone is doing well today and that this week is an easy one for all of us :-)

[sylvie]

good morning everyone!
i'm excited, today is weigh in day!
*happy dances*

breakfast, i'm eating an assortment of fruit, i'm simply picking for now, my appetite isn't up.. but will eat something a little more substantial for lunch and supper.. i wanted to try the smoothie medusa makes, i bought everything for it, and then realized while i was working this weekend, the children drank down my OJ, pffft!

so it's on my list of things to get today, hehehe!

Today marks an important day for me - although i have been on a healthy eating journey these last few months, i've not been strict with myself and feel strong enough to do so now.. Coming out of what felt like a very wobbly day to day few months it's been because of my seeking help for my eating disorder - i am now able to feel strong around temptations often and that feels so amazing to me, to have some sort of control on it.. i don't crave the no no's the way i did, and although this will be a lifetime fight for me, i realize this, today i am celebrating the changes in my body and being a healthier, happier and more well balanced ME..

im proud of me for this!! it's HUGE, and soo im celebrating with a bottle of water, and more healthy meals & a more improved exercise regime each day.. WHY? because celebrating doesn't mean overeating to me anymore - that makes me emotional, damnit! And while i can thank quite a few people for their help along this journey, i want to thank you all for your tips, encouragement and constant sharing here - if this isn't a motivating thread i don't know what is.. i seriously look forward to coming here every chance i get now... ♥

[Sachita]

As an insomniac, sleep is always an issue for me.

From a Yahoo pop-up article:

"People who don't get enough sleep are more likely to have health issues. People who don't get enough sleep are 15 percent more likely to have a stroke and 48 percent more likely to develop or pass away from heart disease. Additionally, people who sleep four hours or less each night have a 75 percent higher chance of being obese due to the fact that sleep deprivation can affect appetite hormones."

sleep and stress relief major factors.

I try to sleep 9 hours. Sometimes I just can't fall asleep. I put my headphones on and listen to "The Ultimate Sleep System". It really helps. There are others. Then at some point in the day meditate. Even if it's just sitting still and focus on your breathing for 30 min. Both of these are huge.

[sylvie]

I admit that I'm terrible for getting sleep; since My parents don't go to bed until late and I don't have much alone time I tend t go to bed around 1am or 2am and am up by no later than 8am ~ and I'm SO tired through the day its not even funny but its My own fault. I'm getting better and not always staying up so late but its a habit thats really hard to break. I'll be glad when My sister goes back to school so that I can sleep in again, though I'm gonna work to stick to a routine that doesn't find Me sleeping until noon or 1pm. I will also be happier when I get more day time to Myself so that I can actually go for more walks during the daytime ~ hope everyone is doing well today and that this week is an easy one for all of us :-)

sometimes it's good to get out for walks just to GET the time to yourself, hehe..hard to motivate ourselves sometimes, but once you do, you feel great for it!

[JustJo]

Not much sleep last night so I'm feeling run down this morning...not coping with food though...just recognizing that it's early bedtime for me tonight. :)

Breakfast....greek yogurt and a banana

Snack (now because I still felt hungry)....1 stick of low-fat mozzarella string cheese, a BIG handful of tender young green beans (raw...delicious), and a handful of black olives

:)