Thread: Want to lose some weight? Board: All Saints / Ship of Fools.


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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
The time has come for a new weight loss support thread!

I have a stone to lose before Christmas and intend to start the 5:2 in October (in order to take a run up at it, get myself prepared etc)

I'm going to keep myself motivated by posting any achievements on here.

Anyone fancy joining me?
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
Me!

But not today, as it's
a) Macmillan cake day and
b) a lovely person's birthday dinner.

Plus yesterday I swapped a home-grown cauliflower for a batch of my neighbour's home baking which she thought wasn't good enough for Macmillan cake day. So I'll eat those, and join you tomorrow.
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
I could surely stand to lose 10 lbs.
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
I certainly ought to lose a stone or three; I'm interested in the 5:2 but not sure how it works (and possibly even less sure of how practical it would be for my life-style).

We're going over the Pond in November and it would be nice if there were a bit less of me than there is now ...
 

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Posted by Cottontail (# 12234) on :
 
I'm in. I want to fit into these dresses again. Maybe a couple of stone by Christmas?
 

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Posted by Penny S (# 14768) on :
 
I have avoided stocking up on cakes from the WI market today because I didn't want to sneeze over all the lovely elderly people who go there for tea and coffee.

And I haven't been eating much because of the cold.

I will take it as a sign that I must start again.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
I've read that the 5:2 way of eating is not suitable for diabetics, so that rules it out for me. I am trying to more aware of my eating and exercise patterns, following a wake up call from my G.P regarding blood sugar levels.

I don't know if this is available in other countries, but here we can get a green prescription from the doctor which give reduced price access to a 12 week series of introductory exercise and nutritional classes. I did one and it was fun (much to my surprise as I hated sports and PE at school).

I wold like to lose 7kg (about a stone)before Christmas as part of my ongoing healthier living programme.

I've avoided the word diet as I think for someone like me this has to be a lifestyle change. Sure I will eat unhealthy foods from time to time but it's more the overarching issues I need to address. This is not to say that's how other people should approach it, but I've learned it works best for me.

Huia
 

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Posted by Jack o' the Green (# 11091) on :
 
Count me in! Have just joined a 24hr gym.
 

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Posted by Adrienne (# 2334) on :
 
I'm up for this.

quote:

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Originally posted by Huia:
I've avoided the word diet as I think for someone like me this has to be a lifestyle change... I've learned it works best for me.

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This is what works best for me too. Two weeks ago I cut out snacking between meals, mainly for gut health reasons, but a few lbs have come off as a result and I feel better for it. I'm currently at 207lb, aiming by the end of October for under 200lb and to have incorporated a bit of exercise into the mix.
 

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Posted by Uncle Pete (# 10422) on :
 
I'm just going to add a little humour to this thread.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Pete, that's depressingly accurate.

The Walking Festival starts in Christchurch this morning, and the sun is out, so that might help my motivation.

Huia
 

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Posted by Sandemaniac (# 12829) on :
 
I can thoroughly recommend buying a house whilst being made redundant as a means of losing weight - my belt has gone in two holes, and I've no need to worry about end of cricket season chub.

Not so good for peace of mind, though...

AG
 

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Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
I am now below 13 stone 7, down from over 17 last year. Low carbs managed it.
 

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Posted by Adrienne (# 2334) on :
 
So, guys, we know it can be done - and we know where to aim those virtual custard pies also
 

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Posted by Japes (# 5358) on :
 
I have also lost a significant amount of weight recently, am fitting into a pair of trousers I have been keeping for twenty years on the off-chance they might fit one day, (they are now too loose!!), and it's still going down, albeit more slowly.

I do not recommend undiagnosed diabetes as the way to do this.

No, I don't feel better for losing the weight, yes, I do feel better for knowing what it is, and that it's being treated properly. Yes, in retrospect, I had been feeling ill for a long time, but not ill enough to do anything about it.

Anyway, I am carrying on with the lifestyle changes, and will be chipping in with this thread from time to time.
 

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Posted by Belle Ringer (# 13379) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Sir Kevin:
I am now below 13 stone 7, down from over 17 last year. Low carbs managed it.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Jack o' the Green:
Most people. That's why it's important to weigh yourself under the same conditions each time. Same time of day, same scales, same amount of clothes, same position in the room. I was once at weight watchers and was weighed in the evening and had put on nearly half a stone. I weighed myself the next morning on my scales under the same conditions as I usually did, and had lost it all and then some.

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I do that (same conditions place etc.) and still have the swings. I've put it down to water all my life, but still.
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Sunday the 4th of October is my first of the 'two' days so I intend to read up on what to do before then.

Any good links folks can lead me to?


 

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Posted by Jack o' the Green (# 11091) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Lamb Chopped:

quote:

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Originally posted by Jack o' the Green:
Most people. That's why it's important to weigh yourself under the same conditions each time. Same time of day, same scales, same amount of clothes, same position in the room. I was once at weight watchers and was weighed in the evening and had put on nearly half a stone. I weighed myself the next morning on my scales under the same conditions as I usually did, and had lost it all and then some.

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I do that (same conditions place etc.) and still have the swings. I've put it down to water all my life, but still.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Lamb Chopped:

quote:

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Originally posted by Jack o' the Green:
That's why it's important to weigh yourself under the same conditions each time. Same time of day, same scales, same amount of clothes, same position in the room.

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I do that (same conditions place etc.) and still have the swings. I've put it down to water all my life, but still.

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I get weight and inch swings just from differences in what I eat. A small piece of cake at coffee, waist is an inch (or 1.5 inches) bigger the next day, takes 3 or 4 days of no wheat or sugar to go back down. I am not celiac, I am not diabetic, but wheat and sugar obviously do me harm that shows up in the metabolically dangerous warning sign of bigger belly.
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Today is my first 500 calorie day! So far so good!

My food for the day -

50g porridge
1 apple
veg soup
black tea and coffee

When the munchies set in I will start to make the soup, which I intend to eat at tea time. I will make double so that I can have it on Wednesday too.

**feeling pleased to have started**
 

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Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
Lucia:

quote:

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But will I really be able to run for half an hour in 9 weeks time???

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It worked for me; I did a 5k race in July after following the Couch to 5k programme. I can't run very fast (the whole 5k took me about 45 minutes) but I can run continuously for 5k.

I expect you know this already, but the most important thing after your trainers is a good sports bra.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Boogie well done for starting. Your menu makes mine look like out in out gluttony.

I like the vegetable soup idea. I should make some myself because it's a relatively easy way of making sure I have enough vegetables. Also if I freeze some it will be on hand if I get the munchies and would be much better for me than a bread, which I am cutting down on.

I am quite excited, the City Council and various volunteers have completed a 360 degree walking trail around Christchurch which incorporates existing walkways as well as some new paths which join them up. The trail comes within half a km of my place, so I'm going to explore it. There are places where the trail crosses a bus route so I'll take my bus card and collapse on a bus when needed.

Huia
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Thank you Huia. I managed the day on my 500cal menu. The last hour (9pm to 10pm) was hard. Not due to hunger but because I felt tired and weak and grumpy!

On my next two day I will go to bed at 9pm - a bonus, extra sleep!
 

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Posted by Erroneous Monk (# 10858) on :
 
I dreamed I was eating ice-cream. It just started with a spoonful, then it all got out of hand. *sigh*
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
I need to lose weight so that a bath towel goes all the way round, so that I'm decently covered the next time I'm walking from shower to bedroom only to spot the window cleaner.

(I wasn't only wearing a towel, you understand - I had slippers on, too.)
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by North East Quine:
... (I wasn't only wearing a towel, you understand - I had slippers on, too.)

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Phew - that's a relief!

eta: I really shouldn't be reading this thread while eating a Tim Horton's chocolate-chip muffin that's probably got about a million calories in it ...

My excuse (and I'm sticking to it) is that I didn't have any breakfast.

[ 05. October 2015, 13:54: Message edited by: Piglet ]
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
It has to be done.
I lost weight 3 years ago, but a combination of a broken ankle and That Time of Life (and eating far too much chocolate, cake and cheese plus red wine) has seen it almost all go back on again. Which is a nuisance because I have a wardrobe of Thin Clothes and very little fits any more.

So, it's back to Weight Watchers I go. Wish me luck?
 

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Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :
 
Good luck St Everild!

Go for it, and all of you too.

I've been making a conscious effort and have lost over a stone since mid-July (I've just hit the 10% of body weight lost). It's a bit up and down, but the overall trend continues to be downwards, so I'm happy with that. If I have a bad day or week, and put a pound or two back on, I usually know why so it can be remedied!
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Boogie, when my doctor put me on new meds which lowered my blood sugar below what it should be I was tired, weak, grumpy and confused but I still didn't feel hungry. I don't know enough about b/sugar levels and their effects on people, but it might pay to keep an eye on this (I'm not a doctor so this is just me wondering - also I may be overreacting because the new meds almost drove me bonkers).

I decided I would ride my bike to my Doctor's appointment today. Part of the way intersects with the new walking/biking trail. I was sooo smooth and enjoyable (the roads in this area were being re-aligned even before the 2011 quakes so it has been a nightmare for years). Then I put my bike on the bus and went into town to buy a new helmet as mine had been broken (they are compulsory here). That meant I had to ride back the 5km from town, which isn't far but the temperature, the wind and the fact that I haven't had a decent ride for ages combined to make it a challenge.

I feel really good now, tired but happy (and broke - the helmet was $140).

Huia
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Better $140 than a head, Huia. My nine year old grandson hit a pothole from recent rains while riding down what is little more than a bush track from his house. He hit a rock and smashed bike. Helmet was a wreck. Imagine the damage to head had he not been wearing it. Lots of very nasty grazes. When recovered, he took bike apart, took bits to school where the pieces were recycled in various sculptures by his class. The yellow seat became a beak for a kookaburra. Well, a tangent, but your head is more important than your wallet.
 

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Posted by Sarasa (# 12271) on :
 
I've been doing the 5:2 for a while now. It suits me, as I'm one of those people who when they start eating things they shouldn't can't stop. I'm more or less happy with my weight. I tend to do it for a few weeks then have a week or two off which means my weight has been more or less the same for a while. I think I'd like to lose anothe 7lbs but maybe this is the weight I'm meant to be.
 

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Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
Lothlorien:

quote:

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Well, a tangent, but your head is more important than your wallet.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Huia:
Boogie, when my doctor put me on new meds which lowered my blood sugar below what it should be I was tired, weak, grumpy and confused but I still didn't feel hungry.

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Yes - I'm sure that will be it Huia, as I had sugar cravings the next day (which I gave in to by having two fig biscuits and a brownie!)

So I will have an extra apple mid evening on my next 'two day'. But I'll still go to bed early as well, as I like the idea
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Jane R:
Lothlorien:

quote:

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Well, a tangent, but your head is more important than your wallet.

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Couldn't agree more - 'how much is your head worth?' is exactly what I said to my daughter when she was boggling at the cost of her new riding helmet.

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In 1987, before helmets were compulsory here, my youngest brother suggested I wear one. I commented on the price and he said, "What's your brain worth?" Then, least he seem to be caring too much "Not a lot, but you've got to preserve the little you have".

Today I was planning to ride along the coastal trail, but we have severe wind warnings again so I will probably walk up Bridal Path Road, which is the path the early settlers walked from the port to Christchurch. It's the first stage in my plan to start hill walking as apart from the Port Hills, an extinct volcano crater, Christchurch is flat.

Huia
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Well, I finally called a halt yesterday (to my increasing weight ) I can't do the 5:2, as without regular nutrition I go a funny colour and fall over (oh, and get very grumpy also, cf. Boogie) but if I just stop eating all the biscuits, cake, crisps and ice-cream that should help

I realised that I no longer walk regularly* as I did while at work, and the above food is just more easily available than when I would baulk at paying canteen prices!

*I still walk - we did about 4 miles yesterday - but it used to be a regular lunchtime activity and now I have lost that routine.

Mrs. S, ruing the day
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
That's great Mrs S!

Calling a halt is the start of a new journey!


 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
Wednesday and today I have done 1 set a day of 20 sit-ups - not much but a start. I also seem to have lost my appetite for the delicious cookies they make down the road. Long may both continue.
 

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Posted by Komensky (# 8675) on :
 
I had fantastic luck with the 5:2 diet and it suits my work/life schedule. For it to really work well, you need to stick to the calories and be sure you have an active life with at least one 30–45 minute intensive workout a week. I lost 40 lbs and am now at the bottom of my target-weight bracket for my height.

Good luck!

K.
 

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Posted by Snags (# 15351) on :
 
Posting primarily for encouragement and a slight humble brag. I have been an official Fat Bastard for many years. Two years ago I lost a chunk on 5:2, but then plateaued, mostly because I cheated.

This summer I and Mrs Snags got a grip and combined 5:2 with MyFitnessPal (calorie counting phone app). I am now officially, just, not overweight. Steady weight loss over 4+ months with minimal pain purely by eating less (and thus better) and exercising more.

The advantage of MFP is that it integrates with this like Endomondo, so if you do exercise you can "earn" more food as it works on net calories. On blow-out days the dog got some long walks.

The real encouragement here is that I'm lazy, I like bad things, and I have no self-control on beer, crisps and sweets. Yet I've lost about 3 stone and know it's perfectly sustainable now. I've still got a few lb to go to target, too, but not many. So it can be done, and often with only minimal adjustments.
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
Well done, sir!
 

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Posted by Jengie jon (# 273) on :
 
Another one to say calorie balancing works. I have gone in the last eighteen months according to my BMI from borderline obese to the top end of normal weight range. Most of this has been through balancing activity against calories and most days running on a deficit.

I used Noom rather than MyfitnessPal but the same approach.

I would stress that with losing weight it is not diet or exercise but diet and exercise. Exercise has the nice effect of slowly upping your metabolism long term as well as you need more calories to support muscle than you do fat.

Jengie
 

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Posted by Adrienne (# 2334) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Snags:
I've lost about 3 stone and know it's perfectly sustainable now.

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That's fantastic, and very encouraging, thank you! I'm down to 203, so 10lb lost in all and pretty much on target. Need to get the exercise going though.
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I'm on another 'two day' today - so far so good. I find fruit teas better than black tea.

One of my favourite meals is home made burgers, guess what Mr Boogs is making for his tea? Gaaah! - that will be a test, for sure. Never mind, he's making enough so that we can have them tomorrow too
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
They always taste nicer the day after, Boogs.
 

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Posted by Snags (# 15351) on :
 
Mr Boogs is a bad man

I at least had the help that Mrs Snags was following the same regime, and is much, much better at obeying rules than me.
 

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Posted by Jengie jon (# 273) on :
 
Adrienne

Remember build up the exercise slowly. Take on one thing at a time and make sure it is well established before adding the next. The first stage may well be to find how much you are actually doing. Get hold of some sort of movement sensor (e.g. pedometer or pedometer phone app).

Jengie
 

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Posted by Adrienne (# 2334) on :
 
Jengie, thank you, I will - I've started off with a few brisk walks, and starting NHS couch to 5k app next week. I'm not in any hurry!

A
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Well done Adrienne.

While I was at the Medical Centre today I asked the nurse to weigh me and I've lost another Kg This was a relief as I had slipped a bit, both in healthy eating and exercise, so I celebrated by buying some (more ) fancy bath salts and walking for an hour today.

Walking, cycling and some Swiss Ball work are definitely my favourite exercises. When I need more intensity I'll do some hill walks. I really don't think I'm the right physical build for a runner, and now my knees and ankles would be at risk. I did try skipping as I was told it was kinder to the joints than running, but my ankles said "NO!" (well screamed would be more accurate).

It's so good at this time of year because tomatoes all the leafy veges and are coming into season - it makes healthy eating cheaper and more enjoyable.

Huia
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Well done Huia!

I have taken on Jengie jon's suggestion and I am trying to up my activity in simple ways.

My first is to vigorously clean the bathroom windows and shower screen after every shower/bath.

The second is to use the upstairs loo instead of the downstairs one.

Any more simple ideas for upping movement gratefully received. (My name is Inertia - I am very slow to get moving but keep going well once started)

Yesterday, my third 'two day' I had the same yukkness at 9pm and went straight to bed. Slept to 7am and woke up feeling marvellous and full of vim and verve!


 

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Posted by Gee D (# 13815) on :
 
The old greeting card said:.

Want to lose 10 ugly pounds? Cut off your head!

Not to be given to your mother.
 

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Posted by Jengie jon (# 273) on :
 
Not as good as house cleaning because it has no point but to keep myself moving while preparing for a viva every hour or so I would walk up and down stairs five times. If you want more try doing it quickly.

Jengie
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
Another mild thought is to keep all food and water in another room than the one you spend all your time in. If you have to get up for every drink or snack it has to help.
 

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Posted by crunt (# 1321) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Brenda Clough:
Another mild thought is to keep all food and water in another room than the one you spend all your time in. If you have to get up for every drink or snack it has to help.

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So true!
I used to use my kitchen as my living room, with my computer set up on the kitchen table, and the fridge behind me. I moved out from the kitchen into my study room because cooking oils were greasing up my computer.
I've been ensconced in the study for a couple of years now and my computer is cleaner - but I am also 5 kg lighter as getting drinks etc requires getting up and walking to another room, so more often than not I just don't bother.
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
However, it is worth always sitting with a glass of water by your workplace, computer, etc. You will drink, without thinking about it. And water intake is always good.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
One of the hints from a magazine 'kick start' programme suggested reorganising your fridge so that healthy food was easiest to see when you open it. I have swapped the celery and carrots up to the main part of the fridge and the bread into the vege bin. Each day I put my handful of almonds into a small container in my backpack and put the bag of almonds back in the fridge, that way I limit myself from munching too many almonds (which I know are good for me in moderation).

One of the blokes at church lost a noticeable amount of weight due to architecture The house he and his wife moved into after the quakes was open plan, so when he did the dishes after the evening meal he could no longer quietly grab leftovers to nibble as he had been in the habit of doing.

Huia - munching a carrot as I write
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
A cold then a tummy bug then being given a meal far bigger than I really wanted but foolishly eating it all so another minor complaint from my digestive system and I have managed to lose 4 kgs in 4-6 days!

Not recommended as the ideal way to go and I imagine I could easily just pile it back on again but I'm going to try to eat moderately and just twice a day and see how that goes.
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
I may have done something rash.

A relative has been trying to give up smoking. She has cut down, but hasn't been able to kick the habit. An NHS quit class suggested she buddy up with another smoker keen to quit, but she couldn't find anyone. So I offered to quit chocolate.

Yesterday was a chocolate binge day, as I "removed" all chocolate from the house.

It's been 18 hours so far since my last bar....
 

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Posted by Uncle Pete (# 10422) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Welease Woderwick:
A cold then a tummy bug then being given a meal far bigger than I really wanted but foolishly eating it all so another minor complaint from my digestive system and I have managed to lose 4 kgs in 4-6 days!

Not recommended as the ideal way to go and I imagine I could easily just pile it back on again but I'm going to try to eat moderately and just twice a day and see how that goes.

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Since you haven't been about for a while, I can only assume you' ve wasted away to a mere shadow of youself.
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
That was very brave of you, NEQ - your formerly-smoking friend can use nicotine patches (to the effectiveness of which I can attest from personal experience), but you don't get anything to make up for your chocolate cravings.

Good luck!
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Well, I'm down 4 lbs since giving up ice-cream, cookies etc This has been helped by Mr. S's 65th birthday MOT, when (of course) the doctor told him to eat less, drink less and exercise more (do they ever say anything else?) Misery loves company!


Mrs. S, now with two reasons to lose weight
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
I need to give myself a kick in the bum and get moving. I am losing impetus

Huia
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
I am down a mere half pound. But I will take what I can get.
 

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Posted by Cathscats (# 17827) on :
 
Another fan of 5:2 here, though I find the 2s easier if I don't eat at all, or at least not till I have some veggies in the evening. I actually feel less hungry that way (obviously my blood sugar must be sky high or something, since I don't get energy loss). Staying nicely around where I should be.
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
5:2

I'm finding the Sundays really easy now but the Wednesdays less so. I may move it to Thursday - less going on for me on Thursdays

I love waking up on Mondays - I really feel energised, like the Sunday fast has done me good.

Now I need to tweak my other days a little, I find myself nibbling bits of cheese

(squeak squeak!!)
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Eight-and-a-half pounds gone in 5 weeks - yay me. It is round about now that it all gets rather boring though, and I need all the encouragement I can get.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by St Everild:
Eight-and-a-half pounds gone in 5 weeks - yay me. It is round about now that it all gets rather boring though, and I need all the encouragement I can get.

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Well done = I'm impressed!

Even more so because I'm not doing very well myself. I'm going to the Doctor next week as a month's physio has had no effect on my sore knee and I'm such a wuss regarding pain
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
I'd be fine with pain if it didn't hurt so much!
 

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Posted by Stercus Tauri (# 16668) on :
 
It's exactly a year since I started working out at the YMCA several times a week, trying to do something about a body that was still stiff and awkward after surgery, not to mention a bit heavier than it ought to be. After all this, I am assured by well meaning friends that I've replaced fat with muscle, which is heavier, so I am in fact healthier. I score points with the medics for this, but am not yet convinced. I'll think about it some more while I settle down for another nap.

As to chocolate, a presbyterian minister, no less, pointed out to me that chocolate is made from beans, and everyone knows that beans are good for you. Giving it up is therefore a health hazard.
 

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Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :
 

quote:

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posted b St Everild:
I need all the encouragement I can get.

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Eight and a half pounds gone in 5 weeks is great - well done! Keep going, and be gentle with yourself about it. As long as the overall trend is downwards, it's very much in the right direction

That's the premise I'm working on, and yes there are some slight wobbles, but I've now lost around something of the order of 1st 9lb over the last few months.

Go you.

[ 10. November 2015, 16:02: Message edited by: kingsfold ]
 

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Posted by Adrienne (# 2334) on :
 
The scales went below 200lb for the first time today I'm encouraged. The exercise has had to wait for a bit as I had a chest infection, I do have a bit more energy though.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Adrienne, that's great! Milestones are to be celebrated

The extra energy when I lose weight like that is a buzz. The memory of that buzz is what stops me diving into unhealthy food when I stop at a café for a cuppa. The apple and almonds in my back pack help reinforce that.

I am trying some non weight bearing swiss ball exercises to lessen impact on my knee.

Huia
 

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Posted by Adrienne (# 2334) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Huia:
... non weight bearing swiss ball exercises ...

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Now that's a really good idea - I have a Swiss Ball somewhere - and at least I'll get some exercise pumping it up
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Is anybody there?

I have lost 11lbs since rejoining Weight Watchers (I don't quite know how I have managed to loose 1 lb in the past 2 weeks though - as I have been on a see food, eat food diet. Must have been because I took my (ladies, small) watch off at the scales.....

Just getting to grips with the latest version of the Weight Watchers system - "Smart Points ™" I think it looks good...or it will do once I have got my head around it.

How is everyone else managing?
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
Not weighed myself for weeks and weeks - I know I should but...
 

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Posted by Uncle Pete (# 10422) on :
 
Do you have a scale large enough?
 

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Posted by bib (# 13074) on :
 
I have been on the 5:2 diet for nearly two years and do the fast days on Mondays and Thursdays which suits my lifestyle. However, I spread the 500 calories over three small meals rather than have the long gap between breakfast and the evening meal as this feels more normal and seems to prevent the low feeling late in the afternoon when I would be more tempted to check out the pantry. The only thing I have found though is that I've very much reached a plateau after an initial significant weight loss. I'm not gaining weight, but I'm not losing it either. I'm wondering if I need a break over the festive season and then start afresh in January.
 

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Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :
 
Around 1st 11lb gone, and I'm very happy with that. Still a little way to go to target.

I seem to be something of a stress bucket at the moment, so if I manage to maintain that and not put too much on during a) a week in Germany and b) visiting assorted friends and family over Christmas and New Year, that will do for now.

I do feel much better for it mind you, and look rather better (though needing to replace my wardrobe as everything is now hanging off me is not a prospect that fills me with joy).

[ 09. December 2015, 19:01: Message edited by: kingsfold ]
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Marvellous kingsfold!

I lost half a stone on the 5:2 but ran out of steam last week.

So today I joined slimming world online - I have a stone to lose. I am 73Kg today and my goal is 65Kg in 3 months.

Onwards and downwards!
 

---

Posted by Yangtze (# 4965) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by kingsfold:
...not put too much on during a) a week in Germany ...

---

quote:

---

Posted by Yangtze:
...there was also the memorable time when the work canteen offered up potato lasagne. Not with potatoes replacing the pasta, but potatoes as the filling for the pasta lasagne.

It was delicious!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Cranmer's baggage*:
I need to lose 60 kg (132 pounds). I'm pretty mad at myself because I got the task 2/3 done 3 years ago, then let things drift and ended up back where I started. But I know how to do it, and I've just reactivated my Weight Watchers account and started wearing my Fitbit again. Lost 1.4 kg (3 pounds) in the first week, so that's a nice start.

Next thing - increase my walking, and get back to the gym.

15 months until my next "0" birthday. Will see how far I can get by then.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lothlorien:
Hullo there. Lovely to see you and Ian Climacus in the one week and Dee a couple of weeks ago. Hope all is well with you. I did know you had moved.

---

Hello! I've been AWOL for some years, and finally found my way back aboard ship. I've been back on the big island for a couple of years, after 7 years on the apple isle. It's good to be back, both physically and virtually.
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
YaY, reunion time

I know that thing about falling back into unhelpful ways having done the same myself. I need to get back walking and now that the knee I damaged several months age by falling down the steps is less painful I am starting to do that. At the moment I'm just very glad that Christchurch is relatively flat. School finishes tomorrow so if I can find my helmet I will get back to riding my bike too. Post earthquakes we have more and better cycle lanes.

Huia
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Welcome back to you Cranmer's baggage*!

Today is weigh-in day and I have lost exactly 1Kg - hurrah!

(This represents many many resisted mince pies!!)


 

---

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
No mince pies here or the weight may have increased somewhat - take the top off a warm mince pie and add a scoop of Marscapone - are there any calories in that?
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Welease Woderwick:
No mince pies here or the weight may have increased somewhat - take the top off a warm mince pie and add a scoop of Marscapone - are there any calories in that?

---

Just a couple!
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Welease Woderwick:
... take the top off a warm mince pie and add a scoop of Marscapone - are there any calories in that?

---

Not if you eat it in church. As eny fule kno, food eaten in church has no calories whatsoever.

Actually, mince pies with mascarpone ... mmmmmmm ...

PS Welcome back, Cranmer's Baggage (what a cool name!)

[ 15. December 2015, 15:17: Message edited by: Piglet ]
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
It is also well known that if you eat standing up, the calories fall downwards into your feet and seep out onto the floor. (This is facilitated by open-toed shoes.)
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Piglet:
PS Welcome back, Cranmer's Baggage (what a cool name!)

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Welease Woderwick:
What is this RealLife of which you speak?

---

That would be the thing that turned tonight's dinner into a parish-council sandwich! Fortunately I had time to throw together & eat a salad beforehand, and have just had something healthy to follow.

[ 16. December 2015, 10:41: Message edited by: Cranmer's baggage* ]
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Cranmer's baggage*:
... turned tonight's dinner into a parish-council sandwich ...

---

You make sandwiches out of your parish council?
 

---

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
<Zips lip>
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Piglet:

quote:

---

Originally posted by Cranmer's baggage*:
... turned tonight's dinner into a parish-council sandwich ...

---

You make sandwiches out of your parish council?

---

Sounds like a plan to me!

We often threaten to run a 'pin the tail on a parish councillor' stall at the May Fair...

Mrs. S, not enamoured
 

---

Posted by Alex Cockell (# 7487) on :
 
Just in case folk who know me in meatspace are interested - I'm slowly losing the 30 stone I put on due to all the crap..

But my last weigh-in at the bari clinic was 258kgs a few months back - but I've gone down an underpant size from 6xl to 5xl yesterday.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Slowly seems best Alex. it has more chance of staying off.

Huia
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
I hope you are encouraged by that, Alex. I know many people who believe that clothes are a more reliable measure of weight loss than the scales.

[ 16. December 2015, 19:07: Message edited by: Lothlorien ]
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 
Well done on going down a size, Alex. I find it daunting when the road feels so long, and I'd love to see the weight magically disappear, but I know that slow and steady is the best ( and in reality, only) way.
 

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Posted by Japes (# 5358) on :
 
That is good news, Alex. I know I found the smaller clothes much more exciting than the numbers on the weighing machines. (Even if the acquiring of new clothes is not my idea of a fun way to spend time!)

I am still slowly, but surely, continuing to lose weight which is pleasing both to me and the medical folk.
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 
2 weeks in, 4 kg (nearly 9 pounds) down. It's a start.
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
9lbs in 4 weeks, CB - that's pretty impressive!
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 
Thanks Piglet. I was particularly pleased by it, especially as I was summonsed to my Doctor's today to receive the results of some blood tests taken three weeks ago. My blood sugar had just tipped into the Diabetic range, but she didn't want to prescribe any medication. It was very nice to be able to assure her that I was already onto the "lifestyle changes" she was prescribing.

[ 21. December 2015, 10:17: Message edited by: Cranmer's baggage* ]
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
If you don't mind my asking, are you following a particular diet, or just eating a bit less and moving about a bit more?
 

---

Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :
 
Have somehow lost a further 1.5lb despite the Riebekuchen and gluhwein, and more alcohol and cake visiting my sister. Can only assume it was much walking around Cologne....

Fingers crossed the combined effects of Christmas and New Year where I don't control the menu aren't too drastic!

[am failing the umlaut code test!!]

[ 21. December 2015, 20:38: Message edited by: kingsfold ]
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Piglet:
If you don't mind my asking, are you following a particular diet, or just eating a bit less and moving about a bit more?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by kingsfold:
Have somehow lost a further 1.5lb despite the Riebekuchen and gluhwein, and more alcohol and cake visiting my sister. Can only assume it was much walking around Cologne....

Fingers crossed the combined effects of Christmas and New Year where I don't control the menu aren't too drastic!

[am failing the umlaut code test!!]

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Cranmer's baggage*:
I'm using the WeightWatchers plan.

---

How do you like the new Smart Points plan? I did really well on the old Points and PointsPlus plans, but then menopause and life happened, and now I need to lose weight again. WW is the only thing that ever worked, so I'm probably going to go back to it. Trying to work up some motivation ...
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by RuthW:
How do you like the new Smart Points plan? I did really well on the old Points and PointsPlus plans, but then menopause and life happened, and now I need to lose weight again. WW is the only thing that ever worked, so I'm probably going to go back to it. Trying to work up some motivation ...

---

The new Smart Points fit my preferred eating style (high protein, lower carb) very well. I'll be interested to see how my weight goes this week, but I've managed the Christmas celebrations with only small inroads into the weekly points allowance. On normal days, I eat well and feel satisfied, often with points in hand at the end of the day.

[ 27. December 2015, 07:54: Message edited by: Cranmer's baggage* ]
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 
I made it through Christmas week with a loss of 300g (half a pound). Not fabulous, but okay.
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Better than going the other way, CB.

I have not officially been trying to lose weight but had a good present on Christmas Day. I put on a skirt which has elastic across the back but has always been just slightly loose in the waist. I have not worn it for a couple of years. It fell off. Son's fiancée took a tuck in it with an old nappy pin. It could not be seen under my shirt. When I took it off I saw she had taken an enormous tuck, about 12 cm. quite an incentive to continue being careful.
 

---

Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
Well done to everyone who has been losing weight and managing to maintain that over the festive season.

I will be joining you in the new year. I've been overweight for a very long time and am determined to make 2016 the year I lose the excess. This was compounded by seeing some photos of a family holiday some years ago. I look very tubby in them... and know that I'm a lot heavier now than I was then.

I'm a bit scared of weighing myself on New Year's Day, and may not feel able to admit to the starting weight here , but will be glad of this thread for company and motivation.

Meanwhile, the Food Reduction Plan starts today - Stage One involves eating all Christmas leftovers before midnight on 31 December. I believe myself to be equal to the task.
 

---

Posted by Japes (# 5358) on :
 
I decided today was a good day to clear out the wardrobe of all items which now longer fitted.

Given I'm five sizes smaller for jeans and shirt-style tops than this time last year, four sizes smaller for t-shirts (I do prefer them looser!) and half my clothes were still in the old sizes, it was more than time. I'd had a mini-purge when I moved house, but couldn't bring myself to be as ruthless as I was this morning.

So, I trundled down the road with four pairs of jeans, ten t-shirts, two shirt-style tops, four fleeces and two nighties. Oh, and all the old decorating clothes as I'd put aside some clothes which could be re-designated!

All fed to the recycling clothes bank before I could change my mind.

Then I went off to the shops for two new pairs of jeans, two new fleeces, two new nighties, four new t-shirts, one new shirt-style top and two new belts. All in sizes with no X-es or with a 2 as the first digit of the size.

It's all very strange. I had choices. But, as I'm aware there's more weight to come off, I was prudent and didn't get as much I was tempted to!
 

---

Posted by Ferijen (# 4719) on :
 
Awesome achievement Japes!
 

---

Posted by Japes (# 5358) on :
 
Thanks, Ferijen. It's an achievement I've kept it off, and a massive achievement that since being diagnosed with diabetes I've managed to get and keep all that stuff under control, but I can't take the credit for putting in the hard work for losing most of the weight! (Undiagnosed diabetes can do that.. I don't recommend it as a way of losing 4 stone rapidly... The grand total is now nearly 6 stone.)

But, now it is off and I've none of my old clothes left to wear, it's a real incentive to keep it off. Along with keeping healthy.
 

---

Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
Like Cranmer I have made it through Yule, with many dinners, parties, libations and extra calories, a half-pound lighter! Now if only I can keep up the progress.
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 
Well done Brenda Clough. I'm reporting in after my weekly weigh-in (a day early because I'll be away from my sales for a couple of days). Another 1.5kg (3 pounds) lighter. So I've now lost 10% of what I need to lose. It's a biiiiiiiig project, but no longer quite as big as when I started!
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Well done, how encouraging.
 

---

Posted by Sarasa (# 12271) on :
 
Well done everyone. I haven't weighed myslef for a while but I can tell I've put on a few pounds over the Christmas break. Back to the 5:2 tomorrow.
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I have, unsuprisingly, stayed the same over the Christmas period.

Back to it now!

I am really enjoying Slimming World online - it suits my way of operating (online lol!)

I've also joined the gym - erk!! I did well with my personal trainer last year, but it is a very expensive way of doing. He's given me the confidence to have a go at gymming for the first time ever.

I shall do Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Mr. S was given a Fitbit for Christmas - not by me, since you ask! When he goes out for a walk I go with him, so I now know how far each little local circuit is. He's trying the 'couch to 5k' programme again, having been forced to give up due to a bout of the flu* six weeks ago; I'll be back to Pilates and t'ai chi and intend to get back to the walking I used to do when I was at work (ironic, huh?)

* he lost about 9 pounds

Mrs. S, with two events to dress up for this year
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Mr D has decided to 5:2 again as he wants to get slightly slimmer for the Cycle Club training camp in March. He's aiming to lose 5 kg. I am not going to fast exactly, but on 5:2 days I'm eating less & not snacking. I will also be avoiding wine on those days too. I really ought to take more exerciose but the cold weather kind of puts me off (any excuse!!)
 

---

Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
Yes. Well. Suffice it to say I need to lose 3.5 stone.

Can't think of anything else to say really.

Nen - discouraged but determined.
 

---

Posted by crunt (# 1321) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dormouse:
I really ought to take more exercise but the cold weather kind of puts me off (any excuse!!)

---

In Korea, female students wear very (very!) short skirts, even during the winter term. One woman told this is because it is widely believed that extreme cold will chill the fat right off your legs.
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
First weigh in of 2016, and, much to my surprise, I have lost 1 and a ½ lbs over Christmas. I have no idea how that happened...
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I went on one of those very fancy weighing machines which work out how much visceral fat you have and your metabolic age.

None!
Metabolic age 46! (I am 58)

So a year with a personal trainer has paid off. I was so chuffed I ate a minced pie - oooops!

It emails you all sorts of info and it confirmed I need to lose 10Kg - so, onwards and downwards!
 

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Posted by Sipech (# 16870) on :
 
We've set up a competition at work. First weigh in this morning. Biggest percentage weight loss by the 1st of February wins a pot of money. Buy in is £10 each. Currently got 13 entrants, most of whom have no weight problem at all.

Time to start the regime of soup & prawns, coupled with daily walks around the city of Westminster.
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 
Great to see so many shipmates reporting in with plans to lose weight. I hope you all find the right strategy for your needs, and look forward to watching your success. (I'll still be here when you announce the achievement of your goals - 62kg/132 pounds doesn't disappear overnight!)
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Sipech:
... Time to start the regime of soup & prawns ...

---

Soup and prawns? Do explain further!
 

---

Posted by Sipech (# 16870) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Piglet:

quote:

---

Originally posted by Sipech:
... Time to start the regime of soup & prawns ...

---

Soup and prawns? Do explain further!

---

Alternating meals. Instead of a proper dinner (steak, curry, roast chicken) you have a prawn dish one night and soup another. Both are fairly low fat, but prawns have a decent amount of protein. At the risk of this turning into a recipe thread, I tend to cook them with some chopped peppers & chillies, with some ginger and then add a big clutch of spinach for the last 3 minutes.

For soup, I tend to go with something from a can. Mulligatawny, oxtail and French onion (not adding a lump of cheese, as some people do with the latter) are my favourites.
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 
Reporting in to keep this thread on page 1 (and to share my joy!). The scales were kind to me again this week - another 2kg (a bit over 4 pounds)gone. That means a total of 7.8 kg down since the beginning of December. Given that this included several Christmas & other social events, 3 weeks of house-guests, and a persistent leg injury that has limited my walking, never mind any more vigorous exercise, I feel very hopeful for the future.
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Cranmer's baggage*:
... a total of 7.8 kg down since the beginning of December ...

---

Good on you, CB - that's over a stone!
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Piglet:
Good on you, CB - that's over a stone!

---

Thanks Piglet. It is indeed over 1 stone. I'm really pleased about it, but when the total that needs to be dispatched is nearly 10 stone, it's still a bit daunting....
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Well done CB!!

Now that my doctor has seen my knee x-ray I am cleared to re-start my walking programme again and also get back on my bike

Huia
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Cranmer's baggage*:
Thanks Piglet. It is indeed over 1 stone. I'm really pleased about it, but when the total that needs to be dispatched is nearly 10 stone, it's still a bit daunting....

---

So 1/10 of the way there - brill!

I lost 0.1 Kg this week, but I have had two meals out so a slow-down was expected. Onwards and downwards!
 

---

Posted by Sipech (# 16870) on :
 
Just had the first weigh in for our work fat club. Lost 2.3% of my starting weight in a week. One chap lost 4.6%. Some people are starting to get very competitive.
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 
Thanks for the encouragement, Huia and Boogie.
Sipech - I remember when Weight Watchers had a much more competitive feel than my local group has currently. I found it was all very well when I was losing consistently, but very demoralising when I hit a plateau.

[ 11. January 2016, 12:34: Message edited by: Cranmer's baggage* ]
 

---

Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :
 
Well done to all.

And the whole Christmas/New Year thing wasn't as bad for me as I had feared. Yes, overall there was a small gain (1lb), but given I spent much of the time as a guest in other people's houses where meals and eating patterns were rather different to those I've become accustomed to, I can live with that.
Now I'm back home and have stocked up the fridge, I'll soon be back to weight loss ways....
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
I've decided that buying a small, upright freezer so I can always have prepared healthy meals on hand would be a good idea. Sometimes I lack the motivation to cook and then eat something unwise. I have been known to get a pizza delivered, even though I don't particularly like them, just because it's available (it would be different if I loved them and having one was a once a month treat).

I'm planning a walk or ride tomorrow afternoon to the library. There's a good bike track that takes me away from traffic, and the roads are amongst the quietest in the city once I cross one major road.

Huia
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 
Huia, the freezer sounds like a very good plan. I'm not usually a fan of frozen ready-meals, but I find that having a couple in the freezer, and some tasty heat-and-eat soups in the pantry, really helps me stay on track.
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
They needn't be ready-meals; if you're cooking a casserole, soup, rice or pasta dish, make a double quantity and freeze the other half. You still have only to re-heat it, but you have the satisfaction of knowing exactly what's in it (and possibly more to the point) what isn't.

D. and I often don't eat the whole quantity of a recipe at one sitting, and the freezer (it's one like this, about half the size of the fridge below it) is nearly always well-stocked with tubs and bowls of left-overs that only need defrosting and re-heating.
 

---

Posted by Pigwidgeon (# 10192) on :
 
Since I cook for one, I regularly cook a full recipe of something and then freeze it in one-serving portions, often enough for four or five more meals. It works well for me, but I know it doesn't for everyone.
 

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Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 
I'm well aware of the virtues of cooking larger quantities and freezing them in handy portions. However, after 40+ years of feeding several people every night, I've reached the point where I frankly can't be bothered. I'm happy to steam a few vegies and grill a piece of fish, chicken or steak and toss it all on a plate, but I really am not motivated to cook up batches of stuff.

For me, at the moment, the commercial stuff works well.

[ 13. January 2016, 00:10: Message edited by: Cranmer's baggage* ]
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
I think I will probably have a mixture of both for variety. I've never had that daily slog of having to feed numbers of people, but I can understand how you can get beyond it - I know my Mum did. One of the reasons she enjoyed coming to visit was not being responsible for the meals. She said any meal someone else cooked was a good one.

Now that my knee seems to have settled down I've decided to consult the exercise woman from the Green Prescription course I did last year. I want to work out some kind of programme to get back on track, rather than the occasional walk. Without getting carried away, I need some discipline in my life

Huia
 

---

Posted by Sipech (# 16870) on :
 
Had another weigh-in this morning. Have lost half a stone in a fortnight, but am not even in the top 3 as measured by % of starting weight lost.

Have been on a diet of a boiled egg for breakfast, small salad for lunch and a proper dinner only every other day (soup & fruit being what passes for dinner on the alternate days).

I've been walking 2-4 miles a day with 12 over the weekend, but I think if I'm to win our competition (ends on the 1st of Feb), I'll need to go for some longer hikes in the next two weekends.
 

---

Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
Half a stone in a fortnight sounds fine to me. Don't starve yourself to win the competition, or you may find the weight comes right back as soon as you stop dieting. The recommended rate (last time I checked) was 1-2 pounds per week after the first couple of weeks of being on the diet.

[ 18. January 2016, 12:56: Message edited by: Jane R ]
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 
Sipech, I agree with JaneR that half a stone is a good loss. It sounds like you're already eating only the minimum for sensible weight-loss. Please keep in mind the bigger picture - the thing that matters is a healthier you, not a competition prize.
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
Also bear in mind that with more-than-usual exercise, some of your fat may turn to muscle, which is heavier, and might skew your results.

Good on you though, for doing as well as you are - that sounds pretty excellent!
 

---

Posted by Sipech (# 16870) on :
 
Thanks folks.

I know my limits, so won't do anything stupid. Am aware of the risk of adding muscle, which is why I'm trying mostly aerobic exercise (mostly walking) rather than doing weights.

My first ambition is to get my tie to hang vertically down, rather than at an oblique angle as it follows the contours of my protruding belly.
 

---

Posted by Jengie jon (# 273) on :
 
Alright, if you want to lose weight quickly then not all exercise is equal. Weights long-term are good, as muscle burns more calories than fat but for short term make a minimal difference. Walking does better but doing enough is hard, you'd need to be doing full day hikes several times a week. The two ones that will work quickly are running and strenuous lap swimming. For me*, they are about the same with running perhaps having the edge. For a competition swimmer then swimming would be the best while for most it is easier to get the calorie burn off running.

Jengie

*I am a decent leisure swimmer, swimming about a kilometer in thirty minutes but not competition; competition swimmers are about twice as fast.
 

---

Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on :
 
Although muscle is heavier, it is also denser - so putting ona bit of muscle will probably flatten your stomach and make you a bit narrower anyway. (Plus muscle is good for you !)
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Weight loss results can vary quite a bit. In the past I managed to lose a significant amount of weight and my only exercise was walking - mainly on the flat and I seldom exercised for more than 2 hours/day.

Today has been brilliant. A visit to the diabetic dietician, with a weigh-in that confirmed I had lost weight, despite all the time I spent not moving when I was in pain over Christmas, (not to mention my poor eating).

This along with a good result for my blood sugar means I must be doing something right.

Second visit was to the physio about managing my exercise so I don't damage my knee further. I can manage a total of 40 minutes walking, broken into 2 twenty minute walks, but the downside is no bike riding for at least a fortnight
Still, it's far better than being in pain and I managed to make one of my walks today beside the sea.

Huia
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
I have always carried weight on my bottom / thighs. At one point in my 20s I was (just) overweight, despite having a 24 inch waist.

I have always worn a smaller size on my top half and a larger size for skirts and trousers.

Something is changing; my weight hasn't gone up, but my stomach is getting much bigger; I seem to be redistributing from being a pear shape to being an apple.

Is this just because I am fat, or is an age / menopause thing?
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:


Is this just because I am fat, or is an age / menopause thing?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:
I have always carried weight on my bottom / thighs. At one point in my 20s I was (just) overweight, despite having a 24 inch waist.

I have always worn a smaller size on my top half and a larger size for skirts and trousers.

Something is changing; my weight hasn't gone up, but my stomach is getting much bigger; I seem to be redistributing from being a pear shape to being an apple.

Is this just because I am fat, or is an age / menopause thing?

---

It sounds like "menopooch". Lots of women get stubborn fat on their lower belly (the "pooch") with menopause--even women who didn't have any before.

Article about this--research was done by the Mayo Clinic.
 

---

Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
A friend of mine complains that her post-menopausal figure is shifting from Julia Roberts to Margaret Dumont. It doesn't mention it in the Mayo article, but both she and I noticed other fat storage taking place, up on top. My bra size has gone up.
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 
Breathing new life into this thread because I need somewhere to boast that I've now lost 10kg (10.2 to be precise) or 22.4 pounds. Perhaps the most exciting part of this is that I'm beginning to rediscover my waistline. When I started, my waist was almost the same as my bust and hips - now, there is a few inches difference! This is good both in terms of appearance and health.
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
A very good reason to bring the thread back to life. Well done, especially with Christmas and holiday January.
 

---

Posted by Sipech (# 16870) on :
 
The work fat club is over. Lost 13.8 pounds in January. Still overweight, but I'm a lot better than I was. Now, I think I need to concentrate more on generally improving my fitness.
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Go Cranmer's Baggage

I'm going to check in with the Practice Nurse at Medical centre next week to keep me on track for when I next see the diabetic dietician in 5 months.

Huia
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
That's great Cranmer's baggage* and Sipech!

My weight loss continues - it's s.l.o.w but I either lose a little or stay the same every week.

I find I'm not hungry! Because I am only allowed healthy food (friut, veg, meat with a small amout of milk/porridge/cheese) I don't wamt to eat all day. I have to make myself eat a helthy lunch or I'd happily have nothing.

This goes to prove that all my 'hunger' was simply sugar/carb craving.

Onwards and downwards!
 

---

Posted by Pine Marten (# 11068) on :
 
What brilliant posts! I haven't been on this thread before, but reading these has increased my motivation to lose more weight.

My diabetic check up was good recently, with Hb1Ac and blood pressure readings both very good, but I want to get rid of that exact stomach flab mentioned above! We're in it together, shipmates...
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
Well done Sipech and CB!

I haven't weighed myself in ages (am wimp) but over the last couple of weeks I sort of feel as if I may have lost a squit of weight (possibly due in part to a spot of RL stress). If it would just motivate me to try a bit harder ...

D's niece is getting married in the summer - it would do me no harm at all to try and look a bit less lumpen than I do at the moment.

I already have an outfit (bought for a wedding a year or two ago, but only worn once, and not in the same company ). It fits me, but as the dress is a stretchy, floppy sort of material it sort of fits where it touches, so it probably wouldn't matter if there was a bit less of me for it to fit ...
 

---

Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :
 
Oh yes, I am a Happy kingsfold. I've now lost two stone
 

---

Posted by Cranmer's baggage* (# 4937) on :
 
Well done Sipech, Boogie & Kingsfold. Isn't it great when the perseverance starts to pay off?
 

---

Posted by Bronwyn (# 52) on :
 
I'm really struggling with health issues and have lost 30kg which I'm not meant to be losing as I'm recovering from major surgery. Dietician is suggesting supplements which I'm taking yet I keep thinking I could now...fit into so many more clothes...still I feel so dreadful I shouldn't think this but simply concerntrate on my health and loose weight after I'm improved.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Dragging this up from the depths to skite

I have lost a bit more weight, but even better than that I have rediscovered Nordic Walking which I hope will enable me to exercise more fully without damaging my knee further.

I did about an hour this morning and this evening am still feeling the buzz.

Huia
 

---

Posted by Bronwyn (# 52) on :
 
Internal healing still happening but I think...I need to start watching my weight. My appetite is back and I don't want to regain pre illness weight but I'm to a point where although losing isn't acceptable but maintaining is a must.
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I've managed to lose another 0.8 of a Kg --> 6 Kg to target and it is all gathered round my middle as a spare tyre!

Patting myself on the back 'tho for resisting all the lovely cakes at our coffee morning yesterday!

🍰 🍰 🍰 🍰
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Well done Boogie, especially the cakes.

I am wondering what will happen on Saturday. I have been eating fairly low carb high protein for just over a week now. Told my son who asked me to do it that I will not be as rigourous as he is. However, in that short time, over a kilo has come off.

Saturday? Middle son is getting married again at noon. Reception is at Old Government House at Parramatta. Fairly swanky . I would call it afternoon tea, it is not a meal. However, the restaurant calls it high tea. I know, I know, but that's not my problem.

Things start off with a savoury course. I imagine tiny sausage rolls, perhaps some sandwiches, mini quiches? Am guessing. Then what everyone is waiting for. Stand after stand of luscious cakes. Champagne and wedding cake, not fruit cake and not mudcake, but something gooey and sweet.

Obviously I will have to compromise. It is my son after all. Equally I don't want to be peeling off pastry or bread to just eat fillings, and It would be rude to sit there refusing things.

Any suggestions? Second kilo is beginning to slide this morning and I don't want to sabotage that. Might have to put something on my plate and toy with that as I once saw an anorexic teen do to give impression she was eating.

[ 06. March 2016, 21:48: Message edited by: Lothlorien ]
 

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Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 
Any chance of infiltating a bottle of sparkling water into the proceedings? Top up your glass with that and it will mean you are soberer and well hydrated and less susceptible to unwise choices. Get a wodge of cake on your plate and eat it - crumb by crumb - while mainly swigging from your bubbly glass and chatting to people.
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Good idea about mineral water. Thanks.
 

---

Posted by Pigwidgeon (# 10192) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Firenze:
Any chance of infiltating a bottle of sparkling water into the proceedings? Top up your glass with that and it will mean you are soberer and well hydrated and less susceptible to unwise choices. Get a wodge of cake on your plate and eat it - crumb by crumb - while mainly swigging from your bubbly glass and chatting to people.

---

I've heard of people spiking their punch at teetotal weddings, but this is the first I've heard of the opposite.
It really is a good idea, though.
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Have also heard of teetotallers putting angostura bitters into lemonade so it looks like beer. . Or making lemon, lime and bitters.

[ 06. March 2016, 23:41: Message edited by: Lothlorien ]
 

---

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
Nephew Person called the other night and, before he left, weighed himself so I followed suit and that evening I was back down to 75 kgs!

A happy WW!

The next few kgs will be tough to shift but I'll still have a go.
 

---

Posted by Thyme (# 12360) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lothlorien:
Have also heard of teetotallers putting angostura bitters into lemonade so it looks like beer. . Or making lemon, lime and bitters.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lothlorien:
.... I would call it afternoon tea, it is not a meal. However, the restaurant calls it high tea. I know, I know, but that's not my problem.

Things start off with a savoury course. I imagine tiny sausage rolls, perhaps some sandwiches, mini quiches? Am guessing. Then what everyone is waiting for. Stand after stand of luscious cakes. Champagne and wedding cake, not fruit cake and not mudcake, but something gooey and sweet.

---

'High Tea' in my neck of the woods means a knife-and-fork savoury course as a starter (either a salad platter with cold meat/fish or a hot course) plus a selection of cakes, possibly also scones with jam and cream plus fresh fruit or some fruit based dessert. And tea.

Good luck with the diet.

[ 13. March 2016, 14:36: Message edited by: justlooking ]
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Thanks. The wedding was lovely bar the heat in high 30s and high humidity.

Savoury course was finger food.finger sandwiches with savoury fillings, tiny pies, assorted fillings, cheeses etc. sweet side had fresh wholemeal scones, tiny cakes, chocolate dipped strawberries etc. and champagne. It was too hot to eat much, two finger sandwiches with egg or chicken. Less than a slice of bread involved. One scone which I did not like, it had sugar in it, something I never add to scones. A strawberry, some water and three glasses of lovely champagne, small flutes.i think I sweated them out immediately.

Lots of fun from the matrons of honour and a good time by pretty eell everyone. My niece's polo accident put a dampener on it for my side of the family. Details in antipodean thread.

I drank about a gallon of water when I arrived home in early evening.
 

---

Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :
 
I'm a happy kingsfold again.

I'm now a couple of pounds below my target weight and have lost over two and a half stone.

The down size (boom tish) is that I'm having to replace what feels like my entire wardrobe as everything was hanging off me and I loathe shopping. It does feel weird having something resembling a figure again....

So hang in there folks, it can be done

[ 14. March 2016, 19:21: Message edited by: kingsfold ]
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Wow Kingsfold - well done!

I think I might brave a weigh in tomorrow wwith the Practice Nurse at the Medical Centre - if the right one is there.

Last week I bought a pair of Nordic Walking poles and today I checked with the instructor that they are set up correctly. So I did the usual hour and a half exercise with the class and at least another hour walking to the venue and various other bits and pieces. So far I am not in any pain, though I am really tired.

I'm going to have a bath with arnica bath salts and anoint my knee with anti-inflammatory crème as a precaution, but at the moment I'm feeling a wonderful endorphin buzz

Huia

[ 15. March 2016, 03:27: Message edited by: Huia ]
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
Oh, buggeration!

I am right back up to my top weight.

Yesterday's family size Dairy Milk probably didn't help.

On the plus side, I've cut down drastically on caffeinated coffee for Lent, and now the initial headacheyness has passed, I'm sleeping better and feeling good. So I'm motivated to tweak my diet a bit.
 

---

Posted by Caissa (# 16710) on :
 
I have lost 13 lbs since the start of the year.
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
North East Quine, good news about the coffee. It is my personal belief that a good night's sleep is one of the best foundations for any kind of positive change.

Caissa - well done

Huia
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
I did an hour's Nordic walking in the Park and the Botanic Gardens yesterday, so have decided on a quieter day today, particularly as I didn't really do enough stretching beforehand. The beauty of the Park is that there are people doing all kinds of weird exercises so no one pays much attention to yet another weird one. Next time I'm taking music with me as the Park part of the walk isn't beautiful like the gardens are.

Next week I will get round to being weighed, which I ran out of time for this week

Huia
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Doctor says I need to lose weight....... So I have joined slimming world..... Now to stick with it!
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Good luck, SM - a former manager lost over 4 stone with them. What a transformation ...

Mrs. S, looking on enviously
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
I was weighed - and had lost a smidgen. Portion control and less nibbling would be a good idea. On the other hand I am noticing some muscle development.

I am managing to do at least half an hour's NW a day and one day did 3 hours, which left me feeling a bit tired, but not as exhausted as I would have thought. I've discovered that the NZ section of the Gardens is best on a really hot day because it's shady, plus the bird life is lovely - not as good as being in the bush, but real bush is some distance from Christchurch .

Huia
 

---

Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
I know a number of people who have achieved excellent results with Slimming World and, what's more, succeeded in keeping the weight off - which, as any seasoned dieter knows, is at least half the battle. Coincidentally I had a leaflet through my door about local classes the other day so am half toying with the idea, although I do begrudge the money.
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
I know people for whom the cost is an actual incentive, Nen - my friend who is a yo-yo dieter says that's the only way for her to avoid cheating on a diet! To be fair, she uses online WW rather than SW; but to balance up again, my t'ai chi instructor (who is pretty overweight) won't use SW because they allow diet drinks, which he thinks are bad for you.

Mrs. S, who doesn't understand why he can't just NOT drink them!
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
I dislike most diet drinks* so much that I'd rather have tap water anyway.

* except ginger ale, which isn't so bad.
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Piglet:
I dislike most diet drinks* so much that I'd rather have tap water anyway.

* except ginger ale, which isn't so bad.

---

Exactly. i have never liked soft drinks as they are called down here, even as a child.

As for diet drinks, bleeugh! A couple of mouthfuls and I have a migraine. This happens even if I don't know it is artificially sweetened. I found out a week ago that the same thing happens to eldest son. DIL was amazed when i mentioned the migraine with such a small amount as P. has the same thing happen.
 

---

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
Migraines are verily the work of Satan!

I'm afraid I misread your post, Lothlorien, and dissolved into fits of giggles - but as a Fellow Migraine Sufferer you and your son have my deepest sympathy. I'm 67 and have finally managed to work out most of my triggers, he says hopefully and with fingers crossed!
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
I have restarted My Fitness Pal. Is anyone else using it?
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
There is a new drink available here that is sweetened with stevia (advertised as a natural sweetener - the use of that word always makes me think, if not say out loud to the person giving away free samples, that cyanide is natural too) . This particular drink leaves me with a nasty metallic aftertaste.

My choice of drink in my water bottle is Christchurch tap water, which comes untreated from artesian aquifers or, if I want a change I have cold ginger and lemon or peppermint tea with no sweetener.

It was the final class in my Nordic Walking course today I never thought I could enjoy a form of exercise so much. There is a possibility that it will be repeated next term but whether or not that happens I am going to continue walking on my own. Even now I tend to take my poles everywhere, but I am not very dutiful about the stretching warm-up and down exercises which are not as much fun by myself.

Huia
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:
I have restarted My Fitness Pal. Is anyone else using it?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
I know people for whom the cost is an actual incentive, Nen - my friend who is a yo-yo dieter says that's the only way for her to avoid cheating on a diet!

---

Yes, I know people who feel that too and it was part of the incentive when I joined a Rosemary Conley class some years ago. I liked Rosemary Conley because part of the class was 40 minutes of aerobic exercise so even if you didn't manage any other exercise that week you knew you'd done that. But for various reasons it all stopped working for me and neither the price nor the shame of having gained weight were enough incentive to stick at it.

For me the overeating is part of a much bigger issue, which I'm now getting help with, but it's a long process. I'm feeling cautiously optimistic about getting it under control this year.

On the subject of drinks, when Nenlet2 is home (as now) we find ourselves drinking things like green tea, as that's what he drinks, and I always mean to explore different ones. I find lemon and ginger undrinkable but the nettle tea I had at lunchtime was ok. I'm also wondering whether to try the chamomile and honey tea I found at the back of the cupboard to try and help the insomnia.
 

---

Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Nenya:
On the subject of drinks, when Nenlet2 is home (as now) we find ourselves drinking things like green tea, as that's what he drinks, and I always mean to explore different ones. I find lemon and ginger undrinkable but the nettle tea I had at lunchtime was ok. I'm also wondering whether to try the chamomile and honey tea I found at the back of the cupboard to try and help the insomnia.

---

It's worth shopping around for a different brand. Morrisons' Own brand lemon and ginger is vile (a pity, as a previous incarnation with lime was lovely, described by a friend as drinking jelly tots), I changed brand and it's much improved.

Aniseed flavours are good as well. Clipper Dandelion and Burdock is very nice, but I think it has just been discontinued.
 

---

Posted by Caissa (# 16710) on :
 
Down 17 lbs this year.
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Caissa, well done

Your example inspired me to do an hour's Nordic Walking, despite the drizzle.

My mum who loved the Beatrix Potter books where Mrs Rabbit often prescribed chamomile tea tried it herself and declared that Mrs Rabbit was "A nasty old Bunny"

I enjoy lemon in water too especially at this time of year when many of our church's generous gardeners share their bounty. I know it's a bit too acidic for some people though.

Huia
 

---

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
Lemon juice in cold soda water is FAB!
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
I love Nordic Walking, me.
Although not so much yesterday, when I went for a 30 min leg stretch around the local playing field, to find myself being used as target practice by the local youth, who were kicking a football around.
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
St Everild I haven't had that. The gardens where I walk are fairly quiet during the week apart from older people and tourists.

I have had people wondering where the snow is (the joke wears thin very quickly) and a bus driver who jokingly asked if the poles were offensive weapons. I thought loudly to myself that the most offensive weapon I had was my tongue - and was tempted to prove it - but didn't.

I am going to investigate a zip fit bit, which seems to be the simplest one available. I think if I use it as a pedometer it might spur me on to do more walking. I'm not really interested in competing with anyone but myself. so the more complicated ones would be overkill for me.

Huia
 

---

Posted by Caissa (# 16710) on :
 
Relapsed with a gain of 1.5 lbs this week.
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Caissa, Damn - when I did that last time I gave up altogether but I expect you have more sense.

Huia
 

---

Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :
 
Don't lose heart. Probably better to look at the longer term and as long as the general trend is downward, the occasional gain of a pound or so isn't something to beat yourself up about. Draw a line under it and continue to do what you were doing when you were losing steadily.
It seemed to work for me.

[ 05. April 2016, 20:40: Message edited by: kingsfold ]
 

---

Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
Update - chamomile and honey tea does not help the insomnia.
 

---

Posted by Karl: Liberal Backslider (# 76) on :
 
Mirtazapine
 

---

Posted by Caissa (# 16710) on :
 
Dropped 3 lbs last week.
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Caissa:
Dropped 3 lbs last week.

---

I have coasted for the last week or two - back on it now!!
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
With sons' encouragement, I have been using My Fitness Pal since first week of March. Two of them have been doing it a while and warned me that it takes a while for weight to move. In just under six weeks, I have lost almost six kilos, feel better and arthritis is better. I am never hungry but do muss summer fruit and have to eat extra greens.

I keep telling them that I did similar when pregnant with each of them. Not quite the same as now, but the forerunner. Each of them was a large healthy on term baby. The most I gained in nine months of pregnancy wss five pounds. So it works.

Kilo equals 2.2 lbs.
 

---

Posted by Sarasa (# 12271) on :
 
I've put on some weight lately, and a check up showed I have highish chlorestral and blood suger levels (though not so high that they want to investigate further). I'm trying to eat more sensibly, though as a vegetarian I think my diet is fairly OK as it is. As for excerise I've just done a zumba class which I really enjoyed, and I'm looking to see if I can find a taster session for Nordic walking anywhere. i don't want to invets in poles etc if I hate it.
 

---

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
I made the mistake of getting on the scales the other evening after the month that has the birthdays of not only myself but also Herself and then Himself!! Crown that with today being one of the Great Feasts of the year here and ... !!!

Tomorrow starts the exercise regime and the reduced food intake - well, I hope so - that is certainly the idea.
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
Eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow ye diet?
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Sarasa:
As for excerise I've just done a zumba class which I really enjoyed, and I'm looking to see if I can find a taster session for Nordic walking anywhere. i don't want to invets in poles etc if I hate it.

---

I am one of those tiresome people who has discovered the joys of a form of exercise and believes the whole world could benefit from it. For me Nordic Walking is it Zumba doesn't get a look in (mainly because I'm not well co-ordinated).

I found a very informative book in the library;The Ultimate Book of Nordic Pole Walking which gives some useful stretching exercises that were used on the course I did - but of course if you don't enjoy it you are less likely to do it, so find your passion.

I take my poles everywhere and one (unintended) consequence is that high school students stand up for me on the bus (old lady with two walking sticks).

I hope you find you enjoy it too.

Huia
 

---

Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
I have a digital scale, and for some weeks now it has been blinking and peeping in an irritating way. Finally my husband googled on it, to see if he could suss out a fix. No. Furthermore, the device no longer is weighing accurately. All my painstaking weigh-ins are fantasy. I have no idea what I weigh. Am off to eat some chocolate-covered raisins, to comfort myself.
 

---

Posted by Lamb Chopped (# 5528) on :
 
This is from the book of Duh, but mine did the same thing, and simply needed a new battery.
 

---

Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
We did that. However, just now I stepped on it and it was as good as gold. Maybe the mere threat of action, as with taking animals to the vet, made it get better.
 

---

Posted by Pigwidgeon (# 10192) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Brenda Clough:
We did that. However, just now I stepped on it and it was as good as gold. Maybe the mere threat of action, as with taking animals to the vet, made it get better.

---

Just like your car stops making that clunky sound as soon as you get to the repair shop.

 

---

Posted by Sarasa (# 12271) on :
 
Huia - I've just sent an enquiry to a guy who runs nordic walking sessions in my local park. I'm lucky to live near one of the very large wild Royal parks in London so should be a good place to find out if it's going to be the exercize for me.
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
I hope you enjoy it Sarasa. I read that it used 90% of the muscles in the body and wondered about the 10% not used. It definitely wasn't any of the muscles used for talking in our group.

There is a new course starting in May and I'm just waiting for the website to be loaded so I can sign up. I have a friend with rheumatoid arthritis who will be trying it out too.

Huia
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
Yesterday I had the genius idea of writing my weight in mirror writing, then taking a selfie in the mirror by way of a "before" picture." Alas, trying to hold the paper and operate the camera proved difficult. The North East Man came to investigate the reason for the cuss words and was entirely baffled to see me holding a piece of paper with the date and "16 stone 10lbs" in mirror writing. So I explained and he was gob-smacked. I've told him my weight often enough, but he has had 27 years of honing the husbandly ability of agreeing without listening and it turned out he had no idea I was so heavy.

I now have the "before" picture - full steam ahead for the "after."
 

---

Posted by lily pad (# 11456) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:
Yesterday I had the genius idea of writing my weight in mirror writing, then taking a selfie in the mirror by way of a "before" picture." Alas, trying to hold the paper and operate the camera proved difficult. The North East Man came to investigate the reason for the cuss words and was entirely baffled to see me holding a piece of paper with the date and "16 stone 10lbs" in mirror writing. So I explained and he was gob-smacked. I've told him my weight often enough, but he has had 27 years of honing the husbandly ability of agreeing without listening and it turned out he had no idea I was so heavy.

I now have the "before" picture - full steam ahead for the "after."

---

quote:

---

I highly recommend posting a "Way Before" photo on the fridge. It's amazing how a slim photo can motivate.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Welease Woderwick:
For some of us [e.g. me] the concept of no appetite is completely alien!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:
Lily pad, when we were trying to get our son to regain weight after illness, we were recommended to use creamy yogurts, some of which are surprisingly high in calories. The rational was that it wouldn't create an unhealthy eating pattern; once he had regained the weight he could easily swop back to "normal" yogurt.

quote:

---

I highly recommend posting a "Way Before" photo on the fridge. It's amazing how a slim photo can motivate.

---

I'd have to back over 20 years to get a truly "slim" photo. I was slim all through my twenties, but I was pearshaped and very flat chested, and totally failed appreciate that I looked good. I suspect that I'm more body-confident now, in my fifties, fat, saggy and greying, than I was then.

Actually, if I could lose a few stone, get fitter and more toned and keep my current mindset, then I'd probably hit my prime.... a good thought.

---

I am having lots of full fat milk and yogurt and every kind of rice pudding and tapioca pudding that I can find. It is amazing to me to see how many calories inflammation can burn off without even trying. Getting the muscles back is proving to be even tougher. (Not that I want the weight back, mind you!)

I think you and I have twin body types. Good luck with the weight loss.
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
I have dug out a pair of dungarees I bought ages ago, but have never worn because they're a bit too small. They are purple with a pink swirly pattern and I really like them.

They fit so long as I am standing up and breathing in, so I don't think it would take much of a weight loss for them to fit comfortably. I have hung them on the outside of my wardrobe as an incentive to lose enough weight to wear them this summer.
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
NEQ - good to have an incentive like that. I think positive incentive work far better for me than negatives which just make me want to give up in despair.

Huia
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Eldest son is promising a shopping trip on return from China.

I ned to sort wardrobe. There is not much point in buying new summer clothes now as we come into winter, if it ever arrives.

Down 200 gm this week. Not much but it is down not up.,

Edited to add: I must really have been asleep this morning. It was 300 gm. Not a vast difference but every bit helps.

[ 21. April 2016, 02:52: Message edited by: Lothlorien ]
 

---

Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
I was getting too skinny - the doctor said I should gain about half a stone, which I did. He also said I was anemic - that should be sorted now. Now I am a bit more than thirteen and a half stone.
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
I have now lost 7 kilos since march 5. Am happy with that and continued downwards progress.
 

---

Posted by L'organist (# 17338) on :
 
My elderly duet partner has managed to lose 2 stone over the past year and has given me a very handsome voucher for a well known store to thank me for "all you did". I feel hugely guilty because all it took was sourcing a dinner plate to match her own but smaller and a few recipes.

I've managed to get off a stone in the past year so am almost back to where I should be.
 

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Posted by Caissa (# 16710) on :
 
I fear than when I step on the scales tomorrow morning, I will find that I have stalled or slightly regressed.
 

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Posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe (# 5521) on :
 
Miss Amanda officially begins her return to the Atkins Diet. Goal is to lose 40 pounds by year's end.

(Seems like I always have 40 pounds to lose!)
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
When Atkins book first came out many years ago, I followed most guidelines during three pregnancies. I put on next to no weight all through each, obstetrician was very happy. Three healthy, full term births and each baby weighed more than I had gained. Not that being pregnant is a concern for Miss Amanda, , but it shows it does work.
 

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Posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe (# 5521) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lothlorien:
Not that being pregnant is a concern for Miss Amanda,

---

Not that she doesn't try.

[She'll get her wrap.]
 

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Posted by Caissa (# 16710) on :
 
Only dropped half a pound this week.
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
I've been going up and down (surely one of the proofs of the fallen state of our world is that cocktails have calories!) but am mostly stuck around the 151 lbs. mark. At least I figured out how to make my scale work properly. If you wear shoes it gives you no sass at all, and surely it is appropriate to subtract a pound for said shoes.
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
I have lost 3.7 kg this calendar month and there are still a couple of days left till the end of April. MFP shows a month at a time. That is a kilo/week average since I started on March 5.
 

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Posted by Caissa (# 16710) on :
 
Well done.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
I am so fed up with myself, It's time for my 3 month blood test that I usually tack the weigh in onto. Except that this time I know I will have put on a ton because I am not eating so healthily nor have I been exercising as much (sigh). I wish I could blame someone else. (Well with winter coming on the cat is eating more, so I followed her example - yeah - I can see the doctor falling for that. She has a good line in pained looks )

Huia
 

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Posted by Japes (# 5358) on :
 
Huia, I can only sympathise! I'm due my blood test this month and hormones have kicked in after a six month break! (Mean or what.) Still, it explains why no weight loss for a couple of weeks, and why I'm craving chocolate like mad when I've not had any such cravings for months.
 

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Posted by Ferijen (# 4719) on :
 
Waving a bit enthusiastically from the lines.

Lost about a stone in April, but you can't have a baby every month as a weight loss method but I do need to engage with the weight loss thing now having basically eaten anything in the past year. Only a few pounds heavier than at the beginning of my pregnancy, but that's ignoring the fact that the start weight was much more than ideal.

so aiming for a month by month downwards trajectory. And trying to avoid breastfeeding at sleep deprivation to eat chocolate All The Time, which was, basically, April.
 

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Posted by Caissa (# 16710) on :
 
Stalled the last three weeks. Hard to get those last 5 pounds off.
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
I have been struggling with these last five pounds for years.
 

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Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
Today I will swim for the first time in about 2 years. Hope this is the beginning of a weight reversal, as going up nearly two dress sizes in the same period of time is working out expensive! I am heartened by the thought that a pound of fat takes up more space than a pound of muscle, so even if all that happens is a fat to muscle conversion, I will still be thinner, if not lighter. Or should I post this on the optimism thread?
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
My Nordic Walking class for term 2 has been cancelled due to insufficient enrolments.

I seriously need to get my act together and I was counting on this to help. Damn - I will have to develop some self discipline.

Huia
 

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Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
This week I swam twice. Stupidly walked distances in sandals not designed for it, and developed blisters which will have to heal before I do distance again. Back to the exercise bike.
 

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Posted by Sarasa (# 12271) on :
 
I tried nordic walking today. I loved it, but managed to trip over the poles and go flat on my face. Fortunatly it was onto a softish surface, so apart from a bashed chin no harm was done. It hasn't put me off next week's class.
As for eating, It's back to the 5:2 next week, I've put on nearly a stone since November.
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Half a kilo on, very pleased as that's after a holiday in Majorca with plenty of wine and puddings
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
Meh. I have eaten very little this week, initially because toothache meant it hurt to eat, and then because anti-biotics meant I felt sick when I ate and I have not lost any weight at all.
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
That's a serious miscarriage of justice, NEQ.
 

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Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
C'est la chuffing vie, n'est-ce-pas?*


* That's sodding life, ain't it?
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
More meh. Husband has suggested I might be more susceptible to infections, such as the current dental one, because I am fat.

I'm a life-long non-smoker, and very moderate drinker (about 6 units per month) so my weight is the unhealthiest aspect of my life.

I have a basically healthy diet - I love my veg, and I'm not keen on fried food, but I eat (occasionally binge eat) chocolate in addition to the basically healthy diet.

Is he right?
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
(Husband's point being; it's only a dental infection, but I've been feeling generally rubbish for days, and a simple infection, even one involving pus coming out of my gum, wouldn't be dragging me down so much if I were thinner and healthier.)
 

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Posted by Curiosity killed ... (# 11770) on :
 
Worth taking to the GP to check out? It may not be obesity. Untreated iron deficiency anaemia can make you more prone to infections as iron is involved in the immune system - and other symptoms are tiredness and lack of energy.

Hitting the chocolate/sugar is often a (very bad) way to temporarily stave off fatigue by giving you a sugar rush. (It's not doing me any good as a technique to keep working for longer hours than my body wants to.)
 

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Posted by Lamb Chopped (# 5528) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:
(Husband's point being; it's only a dental infection, but I've been feeling generally rubbish for days, and a simple infection, even one involving pus coming out of my gum, wouldn't be dragging me down so much if I were thinner and healthier.)

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:


I wonder if I would have avoided both infections if I wasn't obese?

---

quote:

---

Have you thought of keeping a food diary? I do not mean the calorie counting sort but the sort that just notes what you eat, when, what you are doing, and how you feel. The reason is that the way you describe chocolate eating it sounds to me as if it is compulsive.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by jacobsen:
Protein and complex carbohydrates? Sounds like fish'n chips. On top of chocolate, the results could act as aversion therapy

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:
Professionally he is expected to get to the point and problem-solve decisively. He is very good at this. Hence his crisp analysis of the problem - NEQ is fat - and his solution - NEQ needs to lose weight. He's not trying to guilt me.

---

NEQ, we all need to remember that losing weight isn't easy. If it were easy, everyone would do it and we'd all be fighting over the last size 10 crop top in (insert clothes store of choice).

It demands utter and long-term commitment, and that's even supposing that there *are* no underlying metabolic issues. It isn't even as simple as 'eat less, move around more'. So the last thing you should do is feel guilty that you aren't able to take one deep breath, utter a quick prayer and Become Miraculously Thin. Does not happen, as the late great Sir Terry put it.

None of this is to deter you from making every effort, but please, don't feel you're missing something obvious here. You aren't (but if by chance you find the magic elixir, promise you'll share )

Yours in solidarity, Mrs. S

PS it can happen. My last manager but one lost 4 stone by the 'eat less, move around more' method, then she had to go to Slimming World to shift the rest. Great result, though.
 

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Posted by Caissa (# 16710) on :
 
After 4 months of consistently losing weight, I have stalled for the last month. Maintaining discipline is not easy indeeed.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
I failed to do that Caissa and taking it off now is a lot harder than it was 8 years ago.

Hang in there.

Huia
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
Today I dipped below 150 lbs. Hurray! Alas, that is a benchmark I frequently pass, going up and then going down. My goal is to get far enough down below 150 that I have some cushion for minor day to day wavering. In other words, to actually weigh less than 150 lbs! Hasn't happened in 20 years.
 

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Posted by Ferijen (# 4719) on :
 
So May saw me say goodbye to half a stone, although getting lots of day to day variance...

Hello June. Which includes a summer holiday...
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Well done Ferijen. I can sympathise about the variation. It was March 5th when I decided it was past time to do something. In other words a few days over three months. In that time I have lost ten kilos bar a couple of hundred grams. I am very happy with that and have been dragging things out of wardrobe to see if I can wear them yet. many times the answer is yes. On the other side, I have thrown out some things that were just far too big and falling off me. Not worth keeping, I hope not to return to that size and they were several years old and well worn.

So ten kilos, over twenty pounds, a stone and a half, however you measure. Several sizes down in long pants. Very happy.
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
With Himself and Herself being away since Saturday I have noticed that I am eating far less than usual and surely this has to be A Good Thing. Certainly I feel peckish [esurient] at times but I find that if I do something like read or come online it passes. I think it is too early to see any difference but it does show me that I am eating more than I need.

Now I need to remember that and convince the others, too.
 

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Posted by moonlitdoor (# 11707) on :
 
What do people find filling, which is low in calories ? I am trying to have periodic days with under 1000 calories but unlike Welease Woderwick I can't distract myself from feeling hungry.
 

---

Posted by lily pad (# 11456) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by moonlitdoor:
What do people find filling, which is low in calories ? I am trying to have periodic days with under 1000 calories but unlike Welease Woderwick I can't distract myself from feeling hungry.

---

Plain yogurt mixed with a little prepared salad dressing on a salad. It has staying power. If you are making a sandwich, use very basic pita bread and put your salad into that. It is tasty and very filling without being high in calories or artificial stuff.

If you eat meat, consider having just the meat with some mustard to dip it into as a snack or a meal. It takes longer to process so you feel more full.

Home made popcorn - plain or with a little Parmesan sprinkled on it - for when you have the munchies. Carrot sticks and other vegetable sticks should be prepared twice a week and always in the fridge.

A cup of low fat milk made into cocoa is very satisfying. Use cocoa powder and sugar or sugar substitute.

Soups that have lots of meat or lentils and vegetables in them are great for a meal. They take some time to eat too. Alternatively, a simple broth eaten with a spoon, is very low calorie for those times when you have to have something.

If you like fruit, always cut it up into lots of pieces before eating it and savour each piece.

Sometimes a hard candy and a deliberate change of activity is enough to distract me from the urge to want to have something that isn't healthy or that is between meals. I keep a dish of hard candies in the cupboard with the things I really shouldn't have much of. Often, I open it to scan what's there and choose the candy.

Good luck with it! Remember, no one ever really figures out how to lose weight easily. Even people who have all sorts of resources and those who go to extreme lengths and have surgery still have to figure out a reasonable way of controlling a tendency to overeat.
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Quark mixed with frozen raspberries is like a lovely ice cream - honest, I love it!
 

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Posted by Caissa (# 16710) on :
 
The MD says my blood sugars have returned to normal range. He also says I would benefit more from dropping another 5 to 10 lbs in addition to the 20 I have already lost.
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
11.6 kg gone in just under four months. Am happy with that and am very happy with iPad from eldest son as a reward for 10 kg. MY original iPad has seen a great deal of use and was rather tired and temperamental.This is the smaller one with 64G of storage instead of 32 I had. It also came with a keyboard. New to me, but not brand new. DIL upgraded and I have hers.
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
An encouragement to those on this road and a reminder to myself to keep me honest about this journey, When my sons badgered me into this back at the beginning of March, I was asked for a goal. 15 kg seemed impossible then, but it is now so close I can almost feel it. Another kilo down today, making it 13.4 kg gone. I will keep going, I am not hungry or tempted to snack. I am wearing clothes I was ready to throw out as I had not worn them for years. They are several dress sizes down from what I was wearing in February and are now too big.

I have not exerciised as a very dodgy hip made much movement impossible. I have addressed that too. Weight loss has been a help in itself, but I have sought help from a young physiotherapist who is very good and encouraging. She is encouraging but makes me do things which I do not want to do and will not take my protests as an excuse. Who knows? Next week perhaps I will go for a gentle walk after my thrice daily exercises.
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
With himself and Herself being away for several weeks I was eating less and feeling better and found I had lost several kilos...

...then I discovered Carrot and Date Pudding Cake - it goes surprisingly well with a scoop of ice cream!



Tomorrow when I see the Dr discussing my weight will NOT be on the agenda!
 

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Posted by Gramps49 (# 16378) on :
 
I am going with a nonsurgical beriatric program. I lost 60 lbs over a year ago and have kept it off. I just completed surgery. Doctor says for next series I should continue to lose more. Goal is another 50 lbs.

Basically the diet is portion control plus low carbohydrates and high protein. Fruit very big

I am ready to do this.
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
I'm afraid I'm a bit rubbish at low-carbohydrate - I love pasta and rice, and since we discovered the Joys of Breadmaking™, I've eaten a considerably larger amount of carbs than I probably should.

Still, good on you for keeping at it. Once we get settled into the new (temporary) Château Piglet, and get into the way of going to the Fredericton Farmers' Market, we might find ourselves eating lots more fruit and veggies.

Maybe ...
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Piglet, I love pasta too and miss it, but think that is more in my mind than anything else. Certainly, with eating proteins and a reasonable amount of oils and other fats, I am never hungry so they do not call my name.

About two months ago I turned up the hem of several pairs of trousers which were too long as they were loose. One pair of pants was a good pair I had not worn for ages, no elastic in waist but buttons and zip. The band was tight so I put them aside. I am having a sort of birthday lunch for one son and family who cannot be here on my birthday next week. I put the trousers on and discovered they were loose now when done up, so loose I do not need the opening. I have had to find a belt to stop them falling down.

[ 14. August 2016, 00:37: Message edited by: Lothlorien ]
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
For one brief shining moment this past week I hit my target weight, 145 lbs. Immediately went up again, of course. Now to force it down there some more...
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
I have sinned, grievously have I sinned!

Yesterday I was in another city,briefly, and went to a favourite eatery to see if it was as good as I remember...

...and it was...

...and I ate too much - no surprises there then.

I will be passing back through the same city next week and arrive just before lunch...

Bless me for I fully intend to sin again.

In mitigation I have only had breakfast so far today and will probably not have much more.

When I find an exceptional place and exceptional food I think it is okay to indulge a bit but I try to compensate later by being sensible.
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lothlorien:
11.6 kg gone in just under four months. Am happy with that and am very happy with iPad from eldest son as a reward for 10 kg. MY original iPad has seen a great deal of use and was rather tired and temperamental.This is the smaller one with 64G of storage instead of 32 I had. It also came with a keyboard. New to me, but not brand new. DIL upgraded and I have hers.

---

Absolutely marvellous!

I still have (the same) seven kilos to lose

But I am back on it and very determined!
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Welease Woderwick:
... Bless me for I fully intend to sin again.

---

Good food is never sinful. Anyway, if it's somewhere you can only get to once in a while, you should enjoy it whenever you get the chance.

We're going over to Blighty next week, and do you think we're going to miss any opportunity to enjoy the delights of Cafe Rouge or Côte?

Not bl**dy likely!
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 


jogscotland advertised a new class for "absolute beginners" in a nearby park. I pulled on my elasticated waist joggers and an old maternity T-shirt, that being what I thought "absolute beginners" wore to jog. Every one else was in lycra and racer back tops. I think I was the second oldest there. I was twice the age and double the weight of some of the "absolute beginners."

Meh.
 

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Posted by Jengie jon (# 273) on :
 
The thing is North East Quine is that is what the experience runners wear.

You go out to a park in an evening and watch the joggers. The one in all the lycra gear in snazzy colours will be no match for the guy in an old t-shirt and faded pair of running shorts. There is some reason to this. Firstly money goes first on shoes when you have run a while, clothes are there for comfort so old and comfortable are good. Secondly, the serious guys were running before the modern tech stuff came out, why change what works.

Jengie
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
Well, all the lycra clad slim "beginners" were lapping me. I did ask one woman, whom I know, if she was a beginner and she said she was a beginner at running on grass, but had been running on the treadmill at the gym for the past year.

It's a good thing it was just laps, because I could not keep up at all. If it had been a start-to-finish jog I'd have seen everyone else speeding off over the horizon.

Realistically, I'm going to have to train to achieve "absolute beginner" level.



[ 22. August 2016, 19:30: Message edited by: North East Quine ]
 

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Posted by Sarasa (# 12271) on :
 
NEQ, that reminds me of the evening I went out with a bike group. It was claimed to be for all levels of ability, but when they sped away from me after 500 metres I chucked it in and went home.
I'm sort of still doing the 5:2 but have decided to weigh myself everyday, it's interesting how my weight goes up and down. I could do with losing at least another half a stone, but at least all my clothes fit.
 

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Posted by Ferijen (# 4719) on :
 
NEQ, I'd really recommend the NHS Couch 2 5k podcast for absolute beginners. You might need to go at a slower rate but it really really is for those starting from scratch. And wear what you want...
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Mr. S has been doing that, or something like it - it really worked for him and he now goes out and does 5k at least 3 times a week.

NEQ, wear what you like, but at least make sure you have a good bra!

Mrs. S, wishing all runners well
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
The North East Man suggested I treat myself to some lycra so that I can look the part next Monday. A moment's reflection on what I would look like in day-glo lycra has convinced me that I should stick to the baggy joggers and aged T-shirt.
 

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Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 
Many hundreds of years ago, when I had a spell at running, I found this worked - get one of those cheap stopwatches on a string. Run for 10 seconds, walk for 10 seconds. Increase the intervals gradually. As you gain stamina, stretch the running times as against the resting. But never start to run again before your breathing/heartrate have returned to normal.

(I got to the point of being able to run continuously for about 30" - but unfortunately I have a digestion deeply suspicious of exercise and never made it through Runner's Runs).
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
I tried Day 1 of the Couch to 5k today and struggled, but it was easier than the "absolute beginners" class on Monday.
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
One buys fancy lycra gear in hopes of inspiring lazy self to stick with it. "I have to go to Pilates, I spent $48 on a leotard!" It is the last refuge before you drop out. (I speak as a person who could not tolerate Christian aerobics.)
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Christian aerobics??
 

---

Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
It was aerobics, to Christian pop rock. Horrible.
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
That still begs the question about attaching the word christian to other things like music, writing, art etc. However, that is not an All Saints discussion at all.. Thanks for the reply.
 

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Posted by Curiosity killed ... (# 11770) on :
 
NEQ - you shamed me into downloading the app and trying the first session of Couch to 5K last night - which was *interesting*.

I normally get a lot more exercise than I am currently and I'm in the meh camp too, so I am finding it difficult to psych myself up into doing more/anything. Couch to 5K is something at least.

I signed up for Walk 1000 miles at the beginning of the year but fell out of that one when I got flu in February which took me out for a couple of weeks entirely and then was on mad catch up of everything else for ages. If I went back it's still achievable, as I do walk a few miles each week just getting to work, but it is not to the level that I need. Booking walking holidays is getting harder as my daughter, who I normally go with, is doing too much damage to her joints and we're having to take it easy, no more 20 mile packed up hikes in rough country, I'm lucky if I get 5 or 6 miles in on a smooth surface.

I love swimming but I have had to give up because I am so allergic to the chlorine used in pools that it takes at least a couple of days to recover.
 

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Posted by Japes (# 5358) on :
 
I also signed up for the Walk 1000 miles - but only a couple of months ago after a colleague told me about it when she realised I'd set myself that challenge anyway as she'd heard me say I was planning on completing that over the summer break. (I'm now aiming for 1500 by Christmas.)

I only took walking up after a totally horrid spell of eating really healthily but my blood sugar levels creeping up and up with increased medication not helping. I discovered walking for an hour or so helped a lot. So more of my walking is actually in response to that (Probably the first 500 miles were stomped muttering dark and dreadful thoughts) but I've begun to enjoy walking for its own sake now not just because it has helped my health in other ways.

I'm not ever likely to be a rough country walker, a lot of my walking is part of my current commute, but I've enjoyed walking more on this holiday in Scotland on forest trails in Argyll as well as having done some much longer walks exploring my city in ways I've never really done before.

It has all contributed to the four stone lost since this time last year (and the eight and a bit since I weighed my worst). I am within a few pounds of no longer being technically overweight which will be the first time since I was about 4 in 1969 I reckon!

[ 25. August 2016, 07:24: Message edited by: Japes ]
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I still go to the gym most days.

I quite like it and love the air conditioning and posh machines 'tho Ihave to force myself to go - but I do feel much better for it.

I do a weird regime -

7.5 minutes cycle
2.5 minutes lateral trainer (murder, can't manage any longer at a time)
2.5 mins arm weight machines of various kinds
7.5 minutes row
2.5 mins lateral trainer
2.5 mins arm weights
7.5 mins row
2.5 mins lateral trainer
2.5 mins arm weights
7.5 mins treadmill (walking 6.5 km/h)
2.5 lateral trainer
2.5 arm weights
7.5 cross trainer
2.5 lateral trainer
Cool down stretches

Which adds up to an hour. Why all the changes? Because I'm very easily bored!
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Japes, I am seriously in awe - the distance, weight loss, health benefits and determination.

Of course if I did it it would be 1000 km

I need to get back to Nordic walking. After a combination of injuring my knee and plantar fasciitis I have become more lazy, but as summer is coming I need to set myself a walking/healthy eating programme. Thanks for the inspiration.

Boogie, just keeping the timings straight would do my head in. I'd collapse under the weight of numbers.

Christian aerobics??? (shudders in a genteel fashion).

Huia
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Huia:


Boogie, just keeping the timings straight would do my head in. I'd collapse under the weight of numbers.

---

Oh, they are posh machines, they do it for you.

There's a screen with each machine and you can choose a course. I was peddling down a canyon in New Zealand today.

 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
My new phone has a step counter and I am gradually increasing the number of steps I expect myself to take each day, nothing too drastic mind! Today, with a nearly 7 kilometre walk at 06.00, I passed 10,000 steps before breakfast - and my calf muscles are hot happy! I have a lot of walking round town later so shall leave the counter counting, it's still exercise.


[eta: to and too are different words with different meanings - DUH!]

[ 26. August 2016, 03:55: Message edited by: Welease Woderwick ]
 

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Posted by Sarasa (# 12271) on :
 
I think the important thing with excerise is doing things you actually like, which would rule out running for me, and which you can fit in with the rest of your life.
After Huia enthusiasm for it I've taken up nordic walking. I have Richmond Park on my doorstep and a very nice instructor who has walks at various times - all I need to do now is settle on a time for a walk and stick to it.
I also do zumba, because I like dance and areobics and yesterday tried out a local table tennis club. I really enjoyed it, and hope to join when they have space - it's very popular.
As for losing weight I'm finding weighing myself veryday is given me a much better idea about how much I can eat and still lose weight gradually.
 

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Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :
 

quote:

---

posted by Curiosity killed...
[/b]I signed up for Walk 1000 miles at the beginning of the yea...[/b]

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Huia:


I need to get back to Nordic walking. After a combination of injuring my knee and plantar fasciitis I have become more lazy, but as summer is coming I need to set myself a walking/healthy eating programme. Thanks for the inspiration.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Huia:
[qb]

Oh, they are posh machines, they do it for you.

There's a screen with each machine and you can choose a course. I was peddling down a canyon in New Zealand today.

---

If that was based on Skipper's Canyon, reputedly the most dangerous road in NZ, then doing it virtually would be the safest way by far. Most rental car contracts forbid driving there and doing so voids insurance.


Thunderbunk, I too have industrial grade orthotics, made using a an imprint of my feet, and shoes prescribed by a podiatrist. The combination cost equalled the GDP of a small country - but in terms of an investment, one of the best I could have made

Huia

[ 26. August 2016, 18:57: Message edited by: Huia ]
 

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Posted by ThunderBunk (# 15579) on :
 
Originally posted by Huia:


Thunderbunk, I too have industrial grade orthotics, made using a an imprint of my feet, and shoes prescribed by a podiatrist. The combination cost equalled the GDP of a small country - but in terms of an investment, one of the best I could have made

Huia

Thank God for the NHS - just ordered my annual pair, which I reckon costs them about 20% of my annual tax bill.
 

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Posted by moonlitdoor (# 11707) on :
 

quote:

---

originally posted by North East Quine

The North East Man suggested I treat myself to some lycra so that I can look the part next Monday. A moment's reflection on what I would look like in day-glo lycra has convinced me that I should stick to the baggy joggers and aged T-shirt.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Huia:
Japes, I am seriously in awe - the distance, weight loss, health benefits and determination.

Of course if I did it it would be 1000 km

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Thank you Huia, you are kind!

I did ponder 1000km as a start, but I think in miles, and there is that great Proclaimers song!

kingsfold, I do use a pedometer now, but my early walking was all recorded by consulting on-line maps and working it out. I think it's helped having the pedometer as I can be a bit more spontaneous about going off on short-cuts I know but the maps may not cover. I am not using a very complicated one, but it's not a basic mechanical one either. I started with one and the clicking was very annoying. It also stopped working well in a few weeks.
 

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Posted by Curiosity killed ... (# 11770) on :
 
I quite often plot the walk I've done on something like walkrunjog and get it to do the sums
 

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Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Not sure whether to post this here or in the geek thread. I'm thinking I want to be able to know how far I walk, and also what altitude I do, also whatever I get needs to tell the time. Smart watch worth it? Fit bit? Anyone recommend anything else. (Also want to use whatever even when I'm not carrying my smartphone.)
Any advice would be great. Thanks.
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
SM, I use a Fitbit - I find it a lot of fun in terms of competing with Mr. S for steps, stairs etc; it's fun to try and get all your readings to go green; but the sleep function isn't reliable! Either it thinks because I am not actually waving my arms about, I'm genuinely asleep; or if I set it to 'sensitive' it thinks I only sleep about 3 hours/night!

Mrs S - I know I'm a bad sleeper, but seriously?
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
The group leader sounded surprised when she said "You've come back!" at jogscotland last night. Last night was better, partly because I knew what to expect. I was still the least fit person there, but comforted myself that I was also one of the oldest. I'd guess the average age as late thirties / early forties.
 

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Posted by Jengie jon (# 273) on :
 
Surfing Madness

Make sure it does what you want it to do. In your case, this includes altitude, in my case it was to count swimming. The result was I had to read the small print. The only one at the time that did swimming was the Misfit Shine.

I also adopted a Polar Loop back in the days when the H7 was supposed to be waterproof and works with the Loop. I still have it but the H7 has given up and they no longer claim to work for swimming (neither the H7 nor the polar flow are particularly water friendly).

I think, wanting altitude will push you towards a sports watch.

Jengie
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
OK

I'm on the route to cutting out sugar as much as possible, and this includes bread, which is full of sugar.

So, instead of sodas or fruit juice I'm having fizzy water with a splash of lemon juice.

I've cut coffees to two a day and I'm trying to have sweetners instead of sugar.

I'm eating lots of fruit but no high sugar ones like bananas or mangoes.

No cake, no sweets, no chocolate except a small piece of 80% after my main meal.

I'm eating normal fats and oils as they are no longer the 'bad boys' of healthy eating.

Nuts for snacks.

Wish me luck!!


 

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Posted by Baptist Trainfan (# 15128) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:
OK

I'm on the route to cutting out sugar as much as possible, and this includes bread, which is full of sugar.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Baptist Trainfan:

quote:

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Originally posted by Boogie:
OK

I'm on the route to cutting out sugar as much as possible, and this includes bread, which is full of sugar.

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You might find this article to be of interest - not that it comes from an entirely disinterested source!

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Well, I make my own bread, so I know exactly how much sugar goes into it - the dough doesn't rise without it.



 

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Posted by Kittyville (# 16106) on :
 
But you can make bread without sugar at all - you just need more time.
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Boogie:
... I make my own bread, so I know exactly how much sugar goes into it - the dough doesn't rise without it.

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I make French sticks, which have no sugar at all - just water, flour, salt and yeast - and they're just about the nicest bread I've ever tasted, though I say it what shouldn't.

I make the dough in the bread-machine (which does all the hard work), and the cycle takes the best part of 2 hours, but you can go and do something else while it gets on with it, and the therapeutic rolling-and-forming part is absolutely magic.
 

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Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
Boogie:

quote:

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Well, I make my own bread, so I know exactly how much sugar goes into it - the dough doesn't rise without it.

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I make my own bread too, and if I use sugar I only put 1 teaspoon in (per 1.5 kg of flour). It's the yeast that makes the bread rise; the sugar just gives the yeast something easy to feed on to kick-start the process.

My favourite recipe is one which doesn't use sugar at all. It takes between 45 and 90 minutes for the dough to double in size, depending on the weather.

[eta] If you're using the quick-mix yeast, you need to use about twice as much as it says on the packet to get a decent result. It doesn't work as well as fresh yeast, or even the dried yeast.

[ 01. September 2016, 07:58: Message edited by: Jane R ]
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Sugar is only part of the problem. Carbohydrates are more than just sugar. I still eat some, but have fairly heavily cut them. No bread or biscuits for months. I rarely ate sweet stuff, but since cutting back on carbs, the weight has just fallen off and it is easy to stick to. I do not feel deprived and I do not snack and am not tempted to. Plenty of food, not just enough to feed a sparrow. Just finishing a glass of red with my dinner.

[ 01. September 2016, 08:32: Message edited by: Lothlorien ]
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I have kicked out most carbs now except porridge and pulses.

I have one sandwich a week as a treat.

Oil, cheese, butter and cream are back on the menu, so food is much tastier and I'm not missing the sugar and carbs. Apparently the sugar and carbs cause the cravings.

This book is really helping 'tho I'm not doing the eight week version yet, just the general diet.


 

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Posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe (# 5521) on :
 
Dr. Atkins is looking down from heaven and chuckling, "I told you so!"
 

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Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe:
Dr. Atkins is looking down from heaven and chuckling, "I told you so!"

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quote:

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Originally posted by Nenya:
I can still remember standing in the kitchen one morning feeling physically sick at the prospect of bacon and eggs for breakfast yet again.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Nenya:
It's years since we did the Atkins and I expect it has been modified, and we never moved beyond the induction phase. That meant any sort of muffin was a no-no. Also any fruit, and any vegetable high in sugar, such as corn.

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quote:

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Originally posted by North East Quine:
There was a 5k and 10k here at the weekend. Tonight several people showed up at jogscotland "absolute beginners" class wearing their 5k T-shirts and one person was wearing a 10k.

Another week of being the slowest, most unfit person there.

Possibly going to a charity fundraising Afternoon Tea and eating sausage rolls, traybakes and tablet three hours before the class didn't help.

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quote:

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Originally posted by North East Quine:
... I feel guilty going out for a nice walk when the grass needs cutting ...

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I'd have thought that (depending on the size of your garden) that cutting the grass would be quite good exercise in itself. Not as enjoyable as a nice walk, admittedly, but think how virtuous you'd feel - nice smart garden and burning off a few calories!

This may be one of the reasons that we like houses that don't have gardens ...
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Christmas has come early. After losing so much and still losing, although more slowly, my clothes were dangerously big. I mean dangerously, I was tripping on them, even with waistband folded over a couple of times.

I ordered some cheap things online from two reputable shops. DIL has just delivered the packages to me. All fit and I have something for summer which will be on us all too soon. Nothing expensive, I intend these to be an interim measure, but these all fit, three or four sides down from what I have been wearing.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
3 or 4 sizes???

Well done Lothorien

Huia
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Huia:
3 or 4 sizes???

Well done Lothorien

Huia

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Yep. Long overdue.
 

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Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
Recently I went for my annual blood pressure check. The BP level was OK, there were only the usual three or four jabs to try and locate a vein for the blood extraction to test kidney function. And then, the gloomiest-in-prospect moment of the lot. The scales. And the practice nurse announced that I'd lost a stone since the previous year's check!

That's being able to walk properly. Thank you, new hips. (And NHS and in particular the brilliant consultant/surgeon who transforms lives.)
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Well done and congratulations.
 

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Posted by Japes (# 5358) on :
 
I am now in the "Healthy weight" section of the BMI chart. Only just, and it keeps meandering by a couple of pounds upwards, then down again, but I am hoping by the time I get to the next medical check it will have settled to a little lower still as my scales seem to be about 4lbs lower than the ones at the surgery.

It's been a long, slow process, apart from the rapid phase pre-diabetes diagnosis, and relatively rapid for a while after whilst battling the blood sugars (and when weight loss, for me, was totally secondary to that one!), but as I reminded myself, it took from aged 13 - 35 to get to morbidly obese, (via a short spell in my early 20s when it was back at healthy again) then from 49 to 51 to get back to a healthy weight. It's not so bad, really.

Lothlorien, I can totally sympathise with the clothes problem. I kept one pair of jeans in every size for a "Yes, I did once fit into these" photo - there were 8 pairs of jeans on that drying rack, all from one of two places with similar sizing, and I'm on the verge of trying the next size smaller still!

[ 28. October 2016, 09:21: Message edited by: Japes ]
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
I hate clothes shopping, so I tend to pay for quality materials an workmanship, then keep them a long time. However, my winter clothes were now baggy and floppy and falling down. They were dangerous too and that was the last straw when I caught my foot in the hem I had turned up and nearly fell.

Because of postal problems here, I sent them to DIL's Mum's address. They were dropped off yesterday to me.

They will be fine for this summer and I will probably pass them on. It was heartbreaking to ditch what had been a favourite pair of pants. Good material and a colour I loved. However they really were past wearing anywhere except at home, and then they started to fall down. DIL put them in bin yesterday.
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I've done a full month now on the 'no sugar' diet and I'm quite amazed.

We had a coffee morning yesterday in our house, there were cakes galore here from Thursday to this morning when I took the surplus to Church.

I wasn't temped at all, not even slightly - I could look at the cake stands heaving with gorgeous goodies and think 'I don't care'. I wasn't resisting temptation - I wasn't tempted at all. A miracle indeed.

6Kg to go to target. Every single gram is round my middle like a swimming ring

(PS we raised £200 - yay!)
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Well done Boogie. I agree about not being tempted about goodies. I do not have a sweet tooth at all and have always preferred savoury things. However, I find no temptation to snack at all. Savoury or sweet.
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Two posts in a row but a month apart. Things must have slowed down a bit.

I was on a plateau for a while as far numbers went although body shape was changing and once snug clothes became looser without weight apparently being lost .

However, another kilo down and another dress size gone. I rarely buy expensive clothes for myself but yesterday I bought a lovely emerald green dress with lace hem and cuffs. A present for myself, much more expensive than I would usually spend but I am happy and excited about it. Many years ago I had something in similar colour and I loved it.
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
This summer at my low point I was actually within shouting distance of my goal. Over the past month (Thanksgiving) I've alas bounced back up again. I would like to lose 5 lbs before Xmas, another period of appalling danger.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Good results Loth, and a lovely way to celebrate.

I need to take myself in hand. It's not so much the danger of Christmas, it's more that I have eaten most of the meals I froze to use at times when I was disorganised and I haven't replaced them. This means I'm more likely to eat less healthily, unless I go on a cooking and freezing blitz soon... so that's the weekend sorted

Huia
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
New year, new start. I logged into MFP for the first time in months, to discover that the last time I logged in I was 16 stone 8, and I'm currently 16 stone 5.

A good start!

I've borrowed a friend's fitbit zip and like it, so I'm going to buy myself a fitbit and do the 10,000 steps a day thing for January.

[ 04. January 2017, 12:42: Message edited by: North East Quine ]
 

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Posted by Sarasa (# 12271) on :
 
Haven't weighed myself yet this year, but judging by the fit of my clothes I've put on half a stone or so over the last few weeks. I'm trying to get into a routine of eating sensibly, rather than dieting and making sure I do more exercise.I was doing really well witht he 10,000 steps a day until a nasty virus hit last week and I just didn't want to move much. Still feeling a bt grim, but I've just booked up for my zumba class tomorrow and hope to start to get back in the swing of things, sooner rather than later.
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
So have I. A tour of family, all over the US, with the attendant celebratory meals, has pushed me up there again. Time to lose it all and maybe even gain a little ground.
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
A kilo decided it was going to be a Christmas present to me this year. It has now been sent packing. I am glad that is all it was. Being summer, we have lots of good salads etc and cold meats. Much easier than baked potatoes and other stodge for helping with the diet. I never eat Christmas pudding or other such food, so got off fairly lightly.

The emerald dress mentioned above was a great success. Everyone loved it. What is more was that I felt really good in it. That always is encouraging and an incentive. When I got out of car at my niece's where we were for family occasion, my niece said, "Half the woman, you once were." I haven't seen her for a year, since last Christmas.
 

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Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
I've decided I'm far too big and joined Slimming World today. If I can only lose 1lb per week, but consistently, I will be well pleased.
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Another kilo down this morning. I try not to get on scales often as it can be discouraging and not always accurate. Longer times between weighing in allows a bit of averaging out.
 

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Posted by MaryLouise (# 18697) on :
 
All my favourite clothes are too tight and I need to lose weight. Over the festive season I stuck to eating healthy light salads and grilled chicken, fish, lamb chops, a little smoked salmon, grilled and sliced duck breasts with cranberry and orange sauce, iced gazpacho. I ate fresh fruit rather than ice cream for dessert. It was too hot for heavy meals -- I cooked for the household and guests but didn't over-indulge at meals. In-between was another story.

The problem is my snacking habit. While sitting in a deck chair in the garden reading Yotam Ottolenghi's Plenty, I nibbled on cashew nuts and sampled a not-yet-ripe enough Brie. Back and forth I went from the kitchen cupboards all day with handfuls of dried apricots and a spoonful or two of hummous, some left-over smoked salmon on crackers, more dried apricots, half a jar of smoked red peppers, some cheese straws and grissini, a forkful of cold roast chicken. Nothing adds on weight as sneakily as food that doesn't count.

Now the fridge and pantry is emptier and I just need to stop making little snacks and treats for everyone. I woke up this morning thinking about a bamboo steamer packed with pork-prawny-spring-oniony dim sum rather than steamed broccoli.
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
MaryLouise, once I cut the savoury biscuits, breakfast cereal and other carbs, the weight came off quickly. The rate has slowed down a bit but is still going down. I eat healthy foods, rarely snack, have wine and G&Ts. I rarely ate dessert so that was not missed. If I am out and am served some, I cannot believe how sweet ti is. Was given trifle on Boxing Day family lunch. Fortunately it was a very small serve as I had trouble eating it and definitely did not like it at all, but family is family at such times.

I had the opposite trouble to you with clothes. Trousers fell down as I walked, tops fell off shoulder etc I bought enough clothes to ring a few changes but some of them were five sizes smaller than nine months ago. Some of those pieces I bought are getting too big. I have now lost over twenty kilos in nine months.

I can honestly say I do not find this hard. I eat plenty of food. Lots of cheese of all types, fish especially salmon, bacon. Lots of vegetables. Butter on my asparagus etc.Rarely feel the need or even desire to snack. I am healthy and sleeping better than I have done for years.

[ 07. January 2017, 09:15: Message edited by: Lothlorien ]
 

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Posted by MaryLouise (# 18697) on :
 
Lothlorien, that is so encouraging to read. I have had long periods of time when I have been thinner and much fitter without it taking undue effort. As you point out, it is all about cutting out the troublemakers.

Embarrassed to read over my post and see the foodie fixation -- I must also stop reading cookbooks and watching Masterchef, Great British Bake-Off etc on TV.
 

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Posted by Japes (# 5358) on :
 
Loth, you and I are sharing the same approach! Except, as a vegetarian, I'm eating eggs and some mushrooms or soya based protein in place of meat. I'm also eating plant-based yogurts with some double cream and a few berries for puddings when I want one. I only have a mouthful of anything with sugar in when I'm about to go for a long walk.

Who'd have thunk I'd've lost 8 stone eating as much full fat stuff as I now do. (For those who think my cholesterol must be through the roof, it's not. It's in the perfectly acceptable range, though as a diabetic, my doctor will keep muttering about statins and I will keep politely refusing.)

I've also slowed up but could do with losing another half stone to make the surgery scales show my weight as in the healthy BMI range. If I've done that by next Christmas, we'll all be happy.

I was tidying up the overalls cupboard at work this week, and got the shock of my life to realise the Small size fitted, whereas two years ago we struggled to find with one enough Xs in the size for me. (I went with 3Xs and only did it up when I had to.)
 

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Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
Thank you for your inspiring stories, Lothlorien and Japes. I embarked on a low carb programme this week. I decided that's going to be best for me as I have a real sweet tooth and as I'm overweight with a family history of type 2 diabetes I'm a prime candidate. We've lived on baked salmon and baked chicken and roast vegetables this week and I've invested in an appropriate cookery book so that Mr Nen doesn't run screaming for pizza before the end of next week.

So far we've been doing well with ginger ale and lime and soda in wine glasses as a replacement for wine with our meals. For the first time ever those mixers I buy at Christmas won't end up out of date and poured down the sink in October.

I have three stone to lose before I'll be anything near a healthy weight for my height but am trying to see this as a healthy eating plan as well as a weight loss one.

Tomorrow is weighing day...
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Still 6Kg to go to target - Christmas intervened

Back on it now - very low carb and no sugar, no fruit drinks, no dried fruit. Courgetti instead of pasta etc etc.

I'm enjoying my meals better and feeling healthier already after three days. I'm going to stick with it for a month, then have a weekend off as we are going to Heidelberg, then back to it. Even when the spare tyre eventually disappears I want to stick with it as I feel so much better - and my skin (psoriasis) is far, far calmer when I'm on it.
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Interesting, Boogie, about the psoriasis. I have noticed mine is better too. Still there, but much less a problem than at other times. Skin on face looks much better too.

Nenya, I like G&Ts. However I have switched to mixing with soda water rather than tonic which has quite a bit of sugar in it. I have even used sparkling mineral water when my housekeeping went astray and I found I had used all soda water.

I know there is diet tonic but not for me for two reasons. I dislike the idea of messing with food by making it supposedly diet friendly. Have never bought low fat yoghurt etc because of that. Unfortunately, whatever is used to produce diet drinks gives me an almost instant migraine after a couple of mouthfuls. I now work around that.

Son who is eating the same uses no carb maple syrup which he says tastes good. Not for me, nor the no carb beer available down here. I had no reaction to that and it tastes good, but philosophically opposed to the idea.

[ 07. January 2017, 21:27: Message edited by: Lothlorien ]
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lothlorien:
... trousers fell down as I walked ...

---

I know it's probably the sort of problem you want, but still ...

Is your regime a variant of the Atkins diet - low carbs, but plenty of nearly everything else? It sounds rather good, except I've developed a liking for home-made bread ...
 

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Posted by MaryLouise (# 18697) on :
 
Out here the 'Banting' diet of LCHP (Low Carbohydrates High Protein) is very much in vogue. I'm trying to cut down on pasta as well as rice, potatoes and bread. Pasta is my great weakness.
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
I ate Atkins for each of my three pregnancies. I guess it is a form of that which was successful then. Tis does not involve messing around with things and is easy. I do miss good bread but like the results I see.
 

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Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
I've lost 2lb this week.

I confess I had hoped it would be a bit more, given the drastic changes I've made, but if I can average a loss of one or two pounds every week this year I will have achieved target by next Christmas. Here's hoping.
 

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Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
I already think I need to start over again. I've realised that I will need to seriously rethink my weekly shop. Because our church service is at 11 and we have coffee afterwards, Sunday lunch tends to be something quick, like pizza. I was appalled to find out how many sins there are in a couple of slices of pizza. From now on, it'll be soup Sunday lunch time. Thankfully, Darllenwr is supportive on that.
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by St. Gwladys:
... From now on, it'll be soup Sunday lunch time ...

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That's all very well, but soup isn't the same without some nice bread to go with it.

I suppose if you make really good, healthy soup with lots of veggies and pulses in it, you might be allowed a slice of bread ... maybe.
 

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Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
I'm horrified how many syns even ordinary things have - I'm going to have to rethink my usual shopping list this week. I had been doing quite well today until Darllenwr used the last of the Christmas mince pies for pudding this evening.
 

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Posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe (# 5521) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lothlorien:
Son who is eating the same uses no carb maple syrup which he says tastes good.

---

I agree. It does taste good. But many no-carb equivalents of normal foods, including maple syrup, are sweetened with sorbitol or maltitol, or both -- the so-called "alcohol sugars", which are neither sugar nor alcohol.

They work because they are digested extremely slowly -- in fact, they are for the most part excreted via the bowels before they've had a chance to be absorbed. For that reason they really do a number on the bowels, as your son may have noticed.

I was at the doctor yesterday for my annual physical. My weight has remained steady although it's higher than I want it to be. My cholesterol and other blood numbers are all good, with the exception that I am pre-diabetic. I've been told that before. It's enough to get me back on the Atkins regimen, which has always worked for me if I stick to it religiously.

My weakness is ice cream. I can't go a day without it. All the commercial no-sugar-added ice creams are sweetened with alcohol sugars. In the past I've churned my own ice cream using sucralose (Splenda).
 

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Posted by Sipech (# 16870) on :
 
I'm back on the work fat club. Who can lose the biggest % of their starting body weight by the end of the month? One week in and I'm down 2.1%. No idea what others have lost as yet.

Breakfast is now a single boiled egg rather than 2 buttered crumpets. No sweets in the office drawer. Dinner is now mostly cooked veg and some mackerel fillets, rather than a massive curry. Seems to do the trick.
 

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Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
I've lost 4lb! I've lost 4lb!
I couldn't believe it when I was weighed this morning, and burst into tears, as it's not been that great a week, slimming-wise.
I'm setting myself very small targets - I weighed 11st 7 last week! so 11st 3 now, and my interim target is 11st. If I can consistently lose 1lb a week, I'll be content - ish. Ideally, I'd like to get to, or below, 10 and a half stone.
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
Good on you, St. G. - keep it up!
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Good on you St Gladys - someone, somewhere will probably find it.

I hope it's not me.

Huia
 

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Posted by Sarasa (# 12271) on :
 
Well done St. G that is a good loss for just one week.
After a few weeks of indulgence over Christmas I am now trying to eat healthily again and do more exercise. I've started adding what I eat to my fitbit app. I don't exactly think it is an accurate to the last calorie representation of how many calories I eat or use up, but it does give me a rough idea if I'm going in the right direction. I'm hoping its going to train me to eat sensibly.
 

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Posted by MaryLouise (# 18697) on :
 
Congratulations, St Gwladys.

Have lost a little weight, staying away from bread, pasta, rice potatoes and sticking with salads. Smaller portions of everything and no chocolate allowed in the house.
 

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Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
Weighed this morning - I've put on a lb. and I thought I'd kept to the plan well Ah well, it'll be interesting to see what I weigh next week.
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
We went to New York City last weekend and ate a vast number of very delicious things. I am proud to say that I only gained 2 pounds, probably because of all the walking.
 

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Posted by Bishops Finger (# 5430) on :
 
Perhaps tomorrow's march will help, too!

(BTW, if Trumpolini ever feels he needs to lose some weight, he could cut his head off. That would work nicely.)

IJ
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
I calculate I will be on my feet for roughly 9 hours, so yes, it should be physically taxing!
 

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Posted by Japes (# 5358) on :
 
Having remained, as my diabetic nurse cheerfully described it, "beautifully stable" on all counts for the last six months, I'm on the "Let's see if we can do this last half stone or so". My scales hadn't shifted for some weeks, and there wasn't as much of an official loss on the surgery scales as I thought there might be.

So, new far more precise food scales have been purchased and in daily use, strict portion control is in, and daily walking distance increased slightly.

I didn't get around to weighing myself when I first woke up this morning after a week of this regime, but the weight after breakfast indicates it's begun to shift again. I've written a note to myself to weigh first thing on Sundays!

Gulps - it will mean more new clothes....
 

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Posted by Sipech (# 16870) on :
 
Currently 2nd place in the workplace fat club. Have lost 7.4 pounds since the start of the month.

Final weigh in is next week. Think I might go for a sneaky haircut on Saturday.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Sipech, what about an all-over body shave?


Huia
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
I have never been a member of weight Watchers but used to eat their forum back in the days when it was worth reading. Members used to speak of emptying pockets, making sure they did not wear a watch, visiting bathroom just before weigh in, and more such ploys. All really artificial, as things even out over weeks.
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lothlorien:
I have never been a member of weight Watchers but used to eat their forum ...

---

Blimey - you must have been hungry! Nomination for Typo of the Week.

Sorry Loth - couldn't resist!
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Oh dear

I checked that too. Will blame it on the heat. 39 forecast for today and it is almost that now.
 

---

Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
I've lost a further 3lb. That's 5 since I started at the beginning of January.

I am pleased. Still surprised it's not coming off more quickly given the changes I've made, but it's going in the right direction.
 

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Posted by Lucia (# 15201) on :
 
Went shopping, intending to buy new trousers. Tried some on in the size I thought I was (my 'bigger' size) but couldn't do them up! Refuse to go up another size so have now rejoined Weight Watchers online. Week 1 and I've gone over my points every single day however have still lost weight as doing it makes me think about what I am eating and cut down on the carbs, which always helps a lot for me.
 

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Posted by MaryLouise (# 18697) on :
 
Lost a little weight, able to get back into favourite pants, etc. Craving pasta (the influence of MasterChef Australia on TV)) and trying to hide the pasta-making machine from myself.
 

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Posted by Sarasa (# 12271) on :
 
I also lost a (very) little wieght this week. i find recording what i eat on my fitbit helps me keep track much better. The main problem isn't that I overeat, but that i don't rack up a lot of calories even if I do do well over 10,000 steps a day.
 

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Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
I've lost another 3lb, so 6lb over three weeks. If I can lose 2lb next week, that's half a stone, and puts me in a new stone category, as I will then be under 11st.
However, we are going to a reunion on Saturday, and the diet will be going out of the window for the day. Two of our friends have 60th birthdays coming up, and there will be cupcakes made by a friend. The book of words reckons cupcakes are 15 syns each! And lunch will be bread and cheeses, and we're having a meal out in the evening.
I think I will be lucky if I lose any weight at all!
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
Excuse my ignorance, but what's a "syn"?
 

---

Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
Not sure how to describe "syns". Some foods are "free", so you can eat as much as you want. Other foods have a "syn" count, and you are supposed to stay within 15 per day or 105 per week. (Men are allowed 25 syns per day)
Potatoes are a free food, so you could eat a sack full of potatoes, but one praline chocolate is 3 syns.
I reckon I probably got through 50 syns yesterday, so if I lose anything this week, I'll be very pleased indeed.

 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
I am proud to say that I finally saw a 4 in the numbers on my scale, which has not appeared since well before the holidays. 149 lbs, go me! I immediately gained that one pound back again, but My goal is to get below 150 and stay there, instead of bouncing back up again.
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by St. Gwladys:
... Potatoes are a free food ...

---

Really??? It seems to me that in most diet plans these days, anything with even the merest smattering of carbohydrates is not only a sin, but probably one of the seven deadly ones ...

What about bread?
 

---

Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
I've lost half a stone in the first month of the new eating plan. I was a pound heavier the day before official weigh-in day, but shaving my legs and cutting my nails seemed to do the trick.

I'm still surprised it's not coming off more quickly as I really have made some big changes, but if it continues at this steady rate I won't complain.
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Well done, Nenya. Don't forget to have a haircut, empty your pockets and wear the lightest pair of shoes you have. Take off a watch, put phone elsewhere and check you are not wearing jewellery.

Jokes aside, well done.

[ 02. February 2017, 20:28: Message edited by: Lothlorien ]
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
Well done indeed, Nenya - and remember the old adage that the more quickly it comes off, the more quickly it's likely to go back on. Slow and steady wins the race.
 

---

Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lothlorien:
Don't forget to have a haircut, empty your pockets and wear the lightest pair of shoes you have. Take off a watch, put phone elsewhere and check you are not wearing jewellery.

---

Official weigh-ins take place in the privacy of my own home first thing in the morning. Who said anything about pockets and shoes and watches?

Thanks to you and Piglet for the encouragement.
 

---

Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
2lb on . Pain au raisin and cupcakes and the best part of 50 syns last Saturday probably didn't help.
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
That was just one day, St. G. - you'll do better next week.
 

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Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
So far:
-4lb, +1lb, - 3lb, +2lb, -2.5lb.
Overall,-6.5lb so far. put like that, it's not too bad!
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I've had to put a small tuck in the waist of my jeans (I hate belts).

It's a step forward but my - what a slow process! I'm beginning to think I've got a mildly underactive thyroid 🤔🤔
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
Well done, ladies!

St. G. - it's great to see your "plusses" are all smaller numbers than your "minuses".


 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
If I don't get my act together in the next 3 months I'm going to have to go on some really scary medication, so 1 hr 5 mins walking today.

Tomorrow I'm going to have to get up early as the temperature is forecast to reach 30c and walking in that kind of heat is not a good idea.

I think I might go walking in the Botanic Gardens where it's shady and the korimako (bellbird) sits on its branch and sings sweetly (its actually saying Go Away but it sounds better than that.)

Huia

[ 20. February 2017, 07:24: Message edited by: Huia ]
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
I had an obese friend whose doctor was blunt: lose weight or we'll attend your funeral next year. So he did, and shed 200 lbs. An encouragement to us all.
 

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Posted by Pigwidgeon (# 10192) on :
 
A friend of mine is having a knee replacement soon. Several months ago the doctor doubted she could lose enough weight (and apparently was somewhat snarky about it). She took that as a challenge and has been losing it very successfully. That'll show the doctor!

 

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Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
I've lost 11lb since the beginning of January. I was stuck on the same weight for about a fortnight, which was discouraging, but then a couple of pounds seemed to come off within the space of a few days.

Feeling encouraged and motivated and not particularly deprived apart from not having a second glass of wine with my meal on Sunday.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Nenya, . I know it hasn't always moved as quickly as you wanted it to, but when you look at your weightloss over time it's great.

An hour's walking today. I am finding a siesta around 3pm then a second walk after tea works well.

Huia

[ 21. February 2017, 06:48: Message edited by: Huia ]
 

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Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
A better week than last week when I put on 4lb - 3 1/2lb off, so 6lb off so far.
I'm not 100% about the results, as I have to sit on the scales. I suppose I'll believe it when I get under 11st.
 

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Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by St. Gwladys:
I suppose I'll believe it when I get under 11st.

---

I'm envious - I'm looking forward to the day when I'm 11st something.
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
This week I have walked every day for at least an hour . I find I have more energy and I'm waking up feeling positive about the day. A big difference from most of February. I am not weighting myself for a couple of weeks as I don't want to start obsessing about it (I've done that in the past, and it detracts from my achievement).

This isn't a criticism of anyone else because I know different approaches work for different people and I know my own weaknesses.

Huia
 

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Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
I've maintained my weight loss over the past fortnight. Which is good because I've been away on a work conference and tried to make good choices with the - very tasty - food on offer but it wasn't always easy. Having said all that it would have been nice to lose even just a pound.

Nen - hoping for a sudden and dramatic loss sometime very soon.
 

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Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
I had lost 4 1/2 lb when I weighed today, taking me down to 10st 11. It's probably not an accurate figure, as I have to sit on the scales, but it's quite encouraging and the general trend is DOWN!
This week's not going to be good, diet-wise, as we are going to our ex-vicar's induction in his new parish, so eating out 4 days this week.
My next target is 10st 7lb, which means I will have lost a stone.
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Good news in different ways so far on this thread.
 

---

Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
I hit the "first stone lost" target this morning.

Two more to go.

 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Nenya:
I hit the "first stone lost" target this morning.

---

Marvellous!!
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
Well done Nenya!
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Nenya:
I hit the "first stone lost" target this morning.

Two more to go.

---

Lovely news. Well done.
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Nenya

Time to reward yourself. I always give myself a bubble bath when I achieve a milestone like this. Bribery, works well for me.

I had stopped my hour a day walking and am now back onto it. Today I am considering the Coastal pathway, a section of the 360 walk around Christchurch which encompasses the city and suburbs.

Huia
 

---

Posted by MaryLouise (# 18697) on :
 
Congratulations, Nenya!

My weight has stayed the same (too heavy) despite my low carb diet and it may be due to insufficient exercise in this heat. On the other hand, I haven't put on more weight.
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
I have not weighed myself for several weeks. However one DIL asked the other day if I had lost more weight as she could see it in my face. I had not seen her for a couple of months as they have had a fairly torrid time with family upsets.

Then this morning I took out a dress which I had bought some months ago when I absolutely had to buy some things which did not fall off me. It was a bit tight then.

Today, I removed the sales tag from it and put it on.. Success. Fits well feels and looks good. A comfortable soft, denim blue fabric,shirt maker style.

I have been a bit undisciplined this week but this is a boost. Grocery order sends samples from time to time and a pack of. Wraps turned up at beginning of the weekl. I have had no bread I. The house for almost a year. I enjoyed them but threw out the second pack which was also sent.

[ 16. March 2017, 20:40: Message edited by: Lothlorien ]
 

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Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Loth, I always think clothes that barely fit before now feeling more comfortable feels really satisfying - well done.

I have just done one and a half hours walking, the first half hour of which was down a fairly steep hill. It's about 26c, but the wind was blowing off the sea which made it bearable. I hadn't planned to go that far, but the bus didn't come along at a convenient time, so I kept on striding it out.

Huia

I am pooped.

I'm going to have a rest, a bubble bath, then a small venison steak with salad. Wish I had a chef to grill it for me.

Huia
 

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Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
Been stuck on the same weight for a couple of weeks now and trying not to play mind games on the scales (not pleased with scales... have a wee... hop back on... still not pleased... weigh again when hair is dry...) so haven't weighed for a bit. Still sure I'm maintaining, and probably losing very slowly, but a bit discouraged.

Mr Nen casually announced recently that with the change of eating habits (we eat pretty much the same things as I won't cook separate meals) he is back to the weight and waist measurement he was when we got married. So that's nice. I'm thrilled for him, naturally.
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Nenya, it is absolutely a very well known fact that men lose weight more quickly and often more easily than women.

Give yourself some space. Mine has been doing the same here so I will not look at scales for a while. Up a bit, down a bit. Not even anything I can find any trace of a cause for. Am past being able to say hormonal, but it sounds good.
 

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Posted by Lamb Chopped (# 5528) on :
 
Heheheheh. If you can be thrilled for a spouse who announces his ability to do very little and gain the goal you're stressing out to reach, you're a better woman than I am. Mr. Lamb does this too--"Oh dear! Since I gave up eating icecream for a week, I've lost 50 pounds!"

Grrrrrrrr. And the worst of it is, he's telling the truth (bloody metabolism).
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I've given in and started going to Slimming World.

I go on Wednesday mornings and take the puppy as part of her training, so I don't feel the time is wasted. I hate going out in the evenings! I've got a stone to lose (as usual ) and have lost 3lb in the last two weeks, which I'm pleased with.

I'm going to keep going week on week, even after reaching target and hope that 'group therapy' is the key.
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Boogie, I hope this works for you. My sister feels that she does not try unless she has paid for membership of somewhere, possibly even just the gym. It makes her feel accountable. As a fairly definite introvert, the thought makes me cringe.

However, even the walk there is extra exercise. Congrats on achievements already.
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
You know you need to lose weight when the breakfast conversation goes as follows:

North East Man: My PJs feel unusually comfy; have you done something to them?
Me: Those aren't your navy PJ trousers: they're my navy PJ trousers.
North East Man: That explains it. I thought they felt looser than normal.


 

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Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
I'm now under 11st. After a long weekend visiting Lord P on the Isle of Wight, I couldn't believe the Slimming World scales which reckoned I'd lost 4lb. Weighed on Saturday evening on our glass scales, and found I'd lost 3lb and was 10st 13.
Lord P dropped a bit of a bombshell by telling us that the wedding is going to be 14th October THIS YEAR, so I've got to keep focuses. Problem's going to be a fortnight in Cornwall and a week on the Isle before then.
 

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Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
NO CREAM TEAS!!!

Keep up the good work, St. G. - now you've got an extra incentive!
 

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Posted by Polly Plummer (# 13354) on :
 
When Master Plummer got married a few years ago I bought a very smart suit, but it was a bit tight round the tummy. Not enough time to lose the weight so I improved the appearance with some shapewear (I think that's what the young gels call it these days). But it was so hot that I had to take my jacket off, revealing a short-sleeved top and fat arms which appear in all the photos!
 

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Posted by MaryLouise (# 18697) on :
 
Lost some weight in summer and felt very low-carby and happy. Now it is autumn here and all I can think about is lamb tagines and tarte tatin. Weight climbing back up, so I must do something.
 

---

Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
I have been hovering about five pounds above my target weight for so long, I think I should just accept this as the New Normal.
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
An uncle in his 70s was told to lose weight ahead of a knee replacement operation. He did the 5:2 diet, with great success. He has urged us to try it and has given us the books. This is week two, and it's gone well so far; we've enjoyed the recipes we've tried and not found it too difficult.

The science behind it appeals to both of us; we're finding it interesting.
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
I did that a few years ago and was just getting into the swing of it when son moved in with me. He has no problem, being a bean pole like my father and I gave up trying to balance meals for two of us. It is good the two of you can do it together, some encouragement and much easier for meals when both do the same.

I have gone down another kilo although Mothers'Day saw a bit of a carb blowout. I ate away from home for every meal last weekend except breakfast! It does not seem to have caught upwith me yet, so I am hoping an occasional mess is just one of those things that happen in life.
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
At the end of the second week, the North East Man and I have lost 4lbs each. So that works out at 1lb down for each fast day.

It's been easy so far, though yesterday's main meal "Chorizo and Butterbean hotpot" should be called "Butterbean, more butterbean, and a smidgen of chorizo hotpot"
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
At the end of the third week I have lost - nothing. But the 2 low-calorie days were not difficult, the new recipes have been interesting and I sleep well after a low-calorie day, which is a plus point in itself.
 

---

Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
I've come to a halt with the losing as well, which is discouraging. I clearly need to up my game somehow - I set myself a target for the year and if things don't start to shift again soon I won't make it.

Mr Nen, meanwhile, observed to me only this morning how big a particular pair of trousers were on him now, demonstrating the gap between his stomach and waist band. I had a few Very Honest Words to say, to the effect that while I'm thrilled for him (Truly. Thrilled. Naturally.) that sort of conversation really isn't helpful when I'm trying so hard and not getting very far.
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Nenya, I had been wondering how you were going. I
It's unfair, but generally men do tend to lose weight more easily.

I hope you can find a way of doing something differently that will make a difference for you.

I have caught myself eating more chips (fries) than is good for me. Actually none at all would be best for me, so I am going to take soup in a thermos so I have something hot that is healthy.

Sigh - Huia
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
Having lost nothing last week, I am delighted to have lost 3lbs this week. The North East Man and I have lost 7lbs each in four weeks.

Today, however, is the Taste of Grampian Festival, and we fully intend to put at least some of that weight loss straight back on!
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
But you'll be walking around the show-ground, which is bound to expend a calorie or three, and the food will be of such good quality it'll actually be good for you!
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
At the end of Week One (and a bit - the Bank Holiday put the kibosh on my weekly weigh-in at Weight Watchers), I am pleased to say that I have shed 4 lbs.

Of course, this week only being 5 days long instead of 7, I will probably have gained some. Still, it is a Start. Again.
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
At the end of week 5, I've lost another 3lbs! I've come down from 16 stone 4lbs (228lbs) to 15 stone 8lbs (218lbs). This week, instead of getting increasingly grumpy in the evenings of my fast days, I've been going to bed early with a book. This seems to be a win-win situation!

Even better than the figures, this week I sewed the button back onto a pair of black jeans which had been languishing in the mending pile for several months after the button, ahem, pinged off under the strain. I'm delighted to be wearing them again.
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Lots of encouragemnet foir you thereNEQ.

I have been somewhat out of the loop lately and not altogether with it as to food. No scales for around two months but I braved them this morning, fully expecting a substantial gain of 2-3 kilos.I had lost, just 500 gm but a loss. So am getting back on track

Fridge is well stacked with vegetables, cheese and meat, so hopefully another loss soon.
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
Good on you, NEQ!
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:
I have dug out a pair of dungarees I bought ages ago, but have never worn because they're a bit too small. They are purple with a pink swirly pattern and I really like them.

They fit so long as I am standing up and breathing in, so I don't think it would take much of a weight loss for them to fit comfortably. I have hung them on the outside of my wardrobe as an incentive to lose enough weight to wear them this summer.

---

I posted that on the 19 April 2016. They hung on the outside of my wardrobe for a couple of months, then got put back inside.

I wore them yesterday!! Fourteen months after that post and about two years after I bought them. Some might suggest that purple and pink dungarees aren't a good look on a 53 year old obese woman but I felt awesome!!

Another two pounds off this week. 15 stone 6lbs this morning.
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
That's brilliant North East Quine!


 

---

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:
That's brilliant North East Quine!

---

Totally agree -
 

---

Posted by Sarasa (# 12271) on :
 
Those dungarees sound great NEQ.
Havign looked at my holiday photos I think I'd better start dieting now!
 

---

Posted by ThunderBunk (# 15579) on :
 
I saw myself in the mirrors of a clothes shop recently.





I need to lose quite a lot; whether I want to enough to change is a different question.
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I went back to Slimming World after two weeks off and I'd only put a pound on. I am very pleased as we ate out every evening when visiting my son at glorious restaurants, I enjoyed the meals but was careful at the same time to keep off the cream, puddings etc.

Back on the plan now - onwards and downwards!

Lunch is planned - a huge ratatouille with lean beef, followed by frozen raspberries mixed with quark (a fabulous 'free' pud, tastes like ice cream),
 

---

Posted by Lamb Chopped (# 5528) on :
 
Spent six months waiting to see an obesity specialist--not someone who runs a program; rather he appears to be a Mad Scientist™ and tailors his approach to each patient based on evidence and experiment, which is refreshingly rare. After taking a full account of--well, everything!--he leaned across the table and said the equivalent of "If anybody ever tells you this is your fault, tell them to go to hell. [pause] Or send them here, and I will tell them to go to hell."



Apparently in my case it's a combo of genetics, two-three endocrine disorders and four freaking drugs I've been given (see disorders) which cause weight gain.

I've been sent off with my world rocked to:
a) get a liver scan,
b) get a sleep study,
c) eat something that bears a close relationship to no-carb diet,
and d) study my little heart out.

He is also muttering about microbiomes. Oh, and my EKG, which is mildly disturbing, and I hope it's nothing serious.

He's also one of only two doctors I have ever dealt with who recognized Ehlers Danlos syndrome without having to go look it up in the back room.

I think I'm going to like my Mad Scientist.
 

---

Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
That is good news. Meanwhile, my doctor said I needed to lose some weight (the exact amount sounds less scary if you say it in kilos). She recommended Slimming World.

Had a look at their website. Low-carb diet with added body-shaming for £20 per month? No thanks (wonders briefly if the NHS Chief Executive has shares in Slimming World).

So I am doing the 5:2 diet like NEQ (with added exercise if I can ever find the time) and so far have lost about 4 kilos. Finding the fast days much easier now I'm doing the updated version of the diet (in this one, fast days are 800 calories with a 14-hour period of no calories at all either before or afterwards).
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
There is no body shaming in Slimming World Jane R.

I'm going every week and not once has there been a hint of it. I find it really helpful. Your weight is never mentioned, nor are any gains. But losses are celebrated and we share how we did it.

I tend to lose one or half a pound a week, which is very s l o w but I intend to keep going week-on-week once my target has been met, as I so easily put it back on. About five of the group do this and they remain slim and fit.

I've started going to Legs, Bums and Tums at the gym

Everyone was much fitter than me but I'll get there!
 

---

Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
I've been losing half to a pound each week on the Slimmers world diet. I can't do it wholeheartedly as I can't really excercise (though I've found some chair excercises), preparing slimming world meals is difficult as Darllenwr has to do all the cooking, and he is an insulin dependant diabetic who has to have carbs., so baked potatoes and rice which are syn free have become more frequent.
We have amended our diet a bit - Frylight instead of oil (Darllenwr used to use far too much cooking oil), more fruit and veg for me, chips are now air fried, and I have yoghurt when he has a more decadent pudding!
It's going to be interesting to see how we cope as Lord P is going to be home. His fiancée has PKU and so can't eat protein. When she eats with us, we often have a veg stir fry with rice noodles - syn free.
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
Last week and this week ended up being 6:1 weeks rather than 5:2 weeks, and I've remained at 15 stone 6. I've been getting stomach cramps which I think are hormonal, but part of the joy of being a 53 year old female is having no idea what's happening hormonally. To be on the safe side, I've been self medicating with chocolate, so I am well pleased that my weight hasn't gone up!!
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:
... self medicating with chocolate ...

---

Do you need any help finishing it up?
 

---

Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
Our scales showed 10st 4 on Sunday, Slimming World showed 10st 2 this morning, a loss of 8lb over 4 weeks including too many Cornish pasties!
It'll be interesting to see what the scales show next week. If the figures are accurate, I've lost more than 10% of my body weight.
 

---

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Well done on those weeks and the loss.
 

---

Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
Weighed myself this morning and discovered I have lost a fifth of the Excess Baggage.

Woohoo!

<checks previous messages in thread> Glad to hear Slimming World is working for you, Boogie, but I plan to stick with 5:2. I've done low-carb diets before and find them both less effective and harder to stick to than 5:2.
 

---

Posted by Piglet (# 11803) on :
 
Well done you!

I wonder if the 5:2 would work for me - I'm far too fond of bread, rice, pasta and potatoes to be any use at low-carb diets.

Must do some investigating.
 

---

Posted by Sarasa (# 12271) on :
 
I found the 5:2 worked really well for me. I just need to find the motivation to start doing it again!
 

---

Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
It's not suitable for everyone, Piglet. My daughter wouldn't be able to do it, for example - quite apart from the fact that it's unsuitable for children and teenagers, she'd be having migraines every fast day. It's not recommended for diabetics either.
 

---

Posted by St. Gwladys (# 14504) on :
 
A good result in Slimming World this morning - lost 4.5 lb, so have lost 1.5st since New Year. I was slimmer of the week and also won the "loss pot" draw and won a veg cutter which would have been very useful on Wednesday as we did a ratatouille to go with baked potatoes.
Our future daughter in law has PKU, intolerance to protein, so when she's with us, we eat vegitarean.
 

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