quote:

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Originally posted by Hennah:
[Tentative de-lurk]

Hello, All. I've been hovering around this thread for a bit, picking up tips, but I think it's high time I contributed... following a viewing of Christmas photos with me thinking "who's that lard-arse?" and having a moment of horrible realisation, I am officially On A Diet. Yikes.

SO, (deep breath), I am currently 14 stone. To put this in context, the maximum upper limit for my height (5'7") is 11st 6. I did Weight Watchers a few years ago and went from 12st5 to 11st3ish, so I know it works, but it's flippin' expensive and a faff to fit in meetings, so I've recruited my mother (used to teach teenage boys, can be exceedingly strict when required) to be my accountable-to person, weigh-in every week, and rather than paying for ww meetings I'm going to put the money in a pot and when we reach a target, Mum and me are going to do something nice with it. Wish me luck!

And by way of contribution (rather than just me pouring out woes), here is a fab recipe that was pretty healthy to start with but has tonight been adapted into even healthier and still yumptious version:

(I am a lazy cook so generally measure in mugfuls rather than weights, it's less bother...)

Broccoli and Oatmeal Soup
Original Version/Super-healthy Version (WW Points)
2 tbsp olive oil (8)/squirts of no-cal cooking spray (0)
One normal onion or six spring onions (0)
One head of broccoli (0)
One mug of porridge oats/oatmeal (3.5)
Three mugs semi-skimmed milk (6)/Three mugs skimmed milk (3)
Three mugs vegetable stock (0)
Salt and Pepper (0)

Chop the onions and soften in the oil. Add the oats, stir and cook for a few minutes. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets, slice the stems and chop into similar-sized bits. Add to the pan and cook for a few minutes, keep stirring. Add the milk and stock, bring to boil, cover and simmer for 10 mins, season to taste.

If you divide it into five portions it's 3.5 points per helping for the original recipe, 1.5 points per helping for the positively-angelic one.

It's a bit like a savoury porridge - that sound really odd but it's delicious, I promise! It thickens as it cools so if you're saving some, don't worry if it sets solid - once heated again it'll runny up.

Hen [/Re-lurks]

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• Drink less beer
• Get more excercise
• Try to eat sensibly

Would be nice to get my waist to match my inside leg measurement. If I can get it less, even better.
 

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Posted by Curiosity killed ... (# 11770) on :
 
Spike, we have a walk on 2nd January and a fitness thread in the Circus - really trying to help (me as much as anyone)
 

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Posted by Campbellite (# 1202) on :
 
2011 saw me drop ten Kilos, from 97 to 87Kg. My goal this year is to lose at least another 5 to 10.

There, I said it.
 

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Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :
 
I'm trying to get my head around a broccoli porridge... I might adapt that with whole barley.

December 2011 has been a really nasty month for me, weight-wise. I haven't gained a ton -- but I've gained 9 pounds since I last saw my cardiologist, late last Spring I guess it was?

I doubt I gained all nine in just this month -- but it wasn't apparent to me until I temporarily dropped gym in the mornings when I got sick. Taking antibiotics, swigging Nyquil like there was no tomorrow, missed work... at first I was afraid it would kill me, then I wished it would hurry up and kill me. Only just now perking up a bit.

Monday, Lord willing, it's back to the gym!

And, by Monday, a re-direction of attention to portion control. My love affair with food has got to slack off.
 

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Posted by Gussie (# 12271) on :
 
Oh dear - the weight has been creeping up this year and I'm starting the new year needing to lose 10lbs or so. Trouble is there is still Christmas Cake to finish....
 

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Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
I'm a lapsed poster on here -very keen to join in again if there's room for me!
 

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Posted by JoannaP (# 4493) on :
 
I have just weighed myself for the first time in a couple of weeks and am very surprised that I have not gained at all in that time.
So there are just 4 lbs to come off for me to get back down to my goal weight, I have changed my WW status back to losing and will be rigorous in recording what I eat again.
 

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Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
I'm determinedly going to try and lose some more this year. Having put yet more weight on in the summer, am pleased to say that I have been gradually losing since September. Have had a blip over Christmas. But now I WILL get back in to good food and exercise habits. Am aiming to drop at least another dress size. (I don't own scales, so have a belt that is giving me an idea of what I've lost.)
 

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Posted by Mr Curly (# 5518) on :
 
Christmas cake to finish, and enough chocolate in the house to last until Easter. Can I through it all out?

Back walking. Need to drop 8 kg.

mr curly
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I have a stone to lose.


May I join the thread?
 

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Posted by Emma Louise (# 3571) on :
 
Hello 2012! I lost 3 stone between babies and managed to lose baby weight after last pregnancy which is all good...

... but I still have 2 stone to go to be a normal bmi and would like to lose 2 and a half ideally.

I'm still recovering post baby/operation and am still quite anemic so I think exercise will take a while to start but I want to get on top of food now.

Here's to a much healthier 2012
 

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Posted by Hennah (# 9541) on :
 
First weigh-in since 28th Dec starting point... 6lb gone! I know it's just the Christmas extras going, but it feels like a good start. Downhill from here...
 

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Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Go Hennah!
 

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Posted by Enigma (# 16158) on :
 
Well done Hennah!
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Happy belated New Year (don't get to the Ship very often, on MyFitnessPal *all* the time!)

I've been on MFP for 120ish days now, managed to lose a bit over 7kg (14ish pounds). Aiming to lose 10 kg (20ish pounds). Christmas took a bit of a toll on me, but I seem to have just stalled for the past two-three weeks instead of gaining a lot.

I'm back on the wagon and hoping to lose at least another kilo or so before we emigrate to the UK in late Jan. (Excited and scared)

Good luck to all in our post-Christmas/ New Year's endeavours!

Cheers,
EJ
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
I'm considering going back to MFP, but I needed to quit for awhile, I was being obsessive and neurotic. I dont think I'm really cut out for the numbers game. I started weighing myself 6+times a day, weighing every crumb of food, and guilting myself into bad behavior (i.e. skipping whole meals, etc) over minor infractions. it happened the last time I did the counting game, too. I invariably do well at first, then slow, then get anal, then start the starve-then-binge game, cheat on the numbers, stall all weight loss, and function miserably.

I decided a few months ago to just quit caring for awhile and focus my energy elsewhere, after I started counseling to deal with the neurosis part. what's funny is it wasn't the counseling that shook me out of it, it was the fact that I needed counseling!

I've done great, actually - not losing but not gaining... until the holidays. I let myself go back to eating gluten, and it kicked my ass. basically six weeks worth of tummy trouble and almost 20 lbs gained. since US thanksgiving! not okay.

I'm back off the gluten and already feeling better as far as the GI issues go. we'll see if the weight loss can follow along. (sugars are my really killer, need to quit those. scary. I'm so addicted.)

if not, maybe I'll tiptoe back into the counting thing. I'm wary of it - it makes me really lose sight of the important bits and become this obsessive accountant.
 

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Posted by Auntie Doris (# 9433) on :
 
I kind of use MFP to keep up with other people, but as I am actually doing Slimming World and nothing is forbidden I kind of ignore the numbers. I know what classes as my 'free' food, even if MFP doesn't agree.

If I calorie count obsessively I get very psychologically unhealthy very quickly.

Auntie Doris x
 

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Posted by Campbellite (# 1202) on :
 
Comet (et al.) Weighing in frequently doesn't help me. I make a practice of only weighing in first thing in the morning one day a week. (Sunday, for me) and keeping track on an Excel spreadsheet (I can be obsessive about the formulas instead of the pounds/kgs.)

Portion control: Limit eating out, and use smaller plates. It really works for me. A small but filled plate feels more satisfying than a half empty large plate.

Limit carbs, esp. complex carbs/sugars: Mercifully I don't have (never really did) a sweet tooth. I do on rare occasion splurge on a small bowl of no-sugar-added ice cream.
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Luckily I'm a very loose type - couldn't be obsessive about something if I tried (much to some of my bosses' frustration!) so I'm fine estimating calories. Being in New Zealand, most of our food isn't listed so I have to guess that the thing from Asda or Tescos etc. is a similar thing. And I don't weigh anything (I use exact portions if the thing comes already weighed i.e. meat or if I use half a cup of rice etc).

I would probably lose more quickly if I were more pedantic, but I'm trying to live like I could live for the rest of my life... and I've got a lot of other things to do with myself right now!

Also, I'm determined not to turn into one of those crazy running coves. (Bless them and all, I just have other hobbies that I'd rather spend my time on!) so moderate exercise does well for me.

Anyhoo, each to their own! I think a large part of the battle is learning what works for you.

Cheers,
EJ
 

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Posted by Liberty (# 713) on :
 
I'm in. The husband is away for 2 months with work, so I figured this would be a good time to start some healthier routines without his love of carbs and ice cream to distract me. (His love of exercise counteracts them for him, but not me).

Now he's actually got on the plane and left me with only a cranky turtle for company, I am doubting my own ability for self-control, and the motivation actually get some fresh air and exercise.

I'm trying MFP but don't want to get too calorie/number obsessed. We'll see...
 

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Posted by Meg the Red (# 11838) on :
 
I'm in, too. Having carb-loaded my way to 10 extra pounds during a very stressful fall, I'm determined to stop gaining before it's totally out of control. You'd think the fact that my diabetic brother recently had a gangrenous toe amputated would have given me pause before I stuffed another fistful of caramel corn into my mouth, but nooooooooooo

Having recently read Sugar Nation, I'm really trying to focus on eating in a way that will help me not to crash during the afternoon, which is when I'm most susceptible to the call of the cookie.
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
dropping again - down four from whenever that last post was. makes me wonder if the cat was standing on my head and I didn't know it. good to be moving in the right direction, anyway. makes it worth it.
 

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Posted by Liberty (# 713) on :
 
Any advice on how to avoid bread? I don't eat that much, it's just so bad when I do.

I'm thinking that while my own personal chef is away, and I actually have to buy my own groceries (oh, the horror!), I should just not keep any in the house.
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
that was my rule - no grain-based anything in the house. now that I've adjusted the boys get to have bread for PB&J and cheerios. doesnt bother me anymore. purge the pantry!

my buggabo is sugar. I have about 48 hours, then it's all out.
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
came across this and wanted to share. making it my desktop photo for awhile.
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
...it's the more that I worry about!
 

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Posted by la vie en rouge (# 10688) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Liberty:
Any advice on how to avoid bread? I don't eat that much, it's just so bad when I do.

I'm thinking that while my own personal chef is away, and I actually have to buy my own groceries (oh, the horror!), I should just not keep any in the house.

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What kind of bread do you usually eat? For example if you get the hefty German wholegrain sort, it's much kinder to your body and fills you up better than softer white bread.
 

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Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Great Stuff Comet!

Down another 3lbs here - now Week 2 of my post-Xmas campaign and I seem to remember that Week 2 is often really hard for me (and grumpy children this morning doesn't help!)...any tips for that Week 2 feeling?
 

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Posted by To The Pain (# 12235) on :
 
Hi All!

Just popping in because over Christmas I used up all the 'breathing space' that I left myself when I set the weight goal I reached about 18 months ago. But that was the point of building in breathing space! So I have 4 kilos to lose and have given myself a couple of months to do it, which should be fine. I just need to work out the strategies to employ when both my flatmates are slender things who can not only stop eating when they stop feeling hungry but also walk past open packets of biscuits and chocolate leaving them entirely unscathed!

I think I'll grab my lunch then go for a little walk. At least the new flat is a little further from work than the old one - that automatically builds in 15-20 minutes of extra walking on work days.
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by harmony hope:
Great Stuff Comet!

Down another 3lbs here - now Week 2 of my post-Xmas campaign and I seem to remember that Week 2 is often really hard for me (and grumpy children this morning doesn't help!)...any tips for that Week 2 feeling?

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might be worth talking to the kids about how this is the wrong week to cross you. also - explain to them why this is important, so asking for junk food will just tempt you. get them on your "team". it helps. (though, when I am being weak, I sometimes want to growl at my well-meaning children who refuse me access to the cheese. dangit.)

no more sugary stuff after midnight tonight. I have a bunch of ice cream to get rid of. I'm tempted to "accidentally" leave it out on the counter and let the dogs take care of the temptation for me.

alternately - hey boys! Ice cream for dinner!

I need to declare the quitting-sugar thing here publicly in hopes it will challenge me into sticking to it. sugar is worse than crack for me.
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by comet:
I need to declare the quitting-sugar thing here publicly in hopes it will challenge me into sticking to it. sugar is worse than crack for me.

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quote:

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Originally posted by la vie en rouge:

quote:

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Originally posted by Liberty:
Any advice on how to avoid bread?

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What kind of bread do you usually eat?

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That's right, all breads are not created equal. I've become fond of spelt bread, which is hard to find but there's a farmers-market chain around these parts called Sprouts that carries it. Only 10 grams of carbohydrates per slice, and one of those is fiber.

Look for high-fiber bread and note carefully the carbohydrate count on the label.
 

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Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Thanks Comet - I think the "team" thing is great and usually the girls are very good at it but today has been a total write-off I'm afraid on the healthy eating front...

However "tomorrow is another day!" and I will pick up the baton tomorrow and launch once more into the breech (mixing my metaphors as I go!)
 

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Posted by Meg the Red (# 11838) on :
 
I've just joined a workplace weight loss challenge. Everybody contributes $20.00 and competes to see who loses the greatest percentage of body weight during the next three months. One of our staff doctors will do weigh-ins and keep track, and the winner gets all the money.

Just the incentive I need to move my (sizeable) butt!
 

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Posted by Meg the Red (# 11838) on :
 
....and the dirty tricks have already started. Someone placed Lindor chocolates in the mailboxes of everyone participating.

Must. Resist.
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
That's quite funny about the sneaky chocolates in the mail box. Why don't you just put them in the box of the person you want to sabotage (and start a chocolate swapping war!)

In my weight-loss news, I'm buggered. I only went and broke my damn toe in the weekend so pretty much all kinds of exercise are ruled out (not even stationary bike!).

I had lost the Christmas pound but I just cannot stay under 1200 calories with no exercise! And we've had lovely family dinners out the last two nights, and another birthday next week and then we're on a plane for 27 hours and staying with family 'till we find jobs and a flat! (Throws up hands).

I'm thinking if I manage to maintain over the next few weeks I'll be doing pretty well.
 

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Posted by claudine (# 12441) on :
 
I'm not trying to lose weight but I do need to cut down on sugar, so I'll tag along here if that's OK. First I need to do something about what's left of the Christmas chocolate
 

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Posted by To The Pain (# 12235) on :
 
Oh EJ, that's annoying! I hope the toe isn't too painful, but I don't have any helpful suggestions for exercise. Just moving around will be more of an effort, but I guess you'll want to do as little as possible of that. It might be worth trying to do some arm or upper body strength stuff - I know I totally ignore my upper body with most of the exercise I do.

I am doing a small happy dance as a few days of paying attention to how much I eat/do has lead to a kilo disappearing over the last few days. Of course, I set myself up for a good start by doing my first weigh-in when I was probably retaining a bit of water and by fudging the needle on the scale up to a whole kilo when it was really just below that, but it's good for confidence! Keep on keeping on everyone.
 

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Posted by M. (# 3291) on :
 
I discovered this morning that my favourite trouser suit has mysteriously shrunk in the wardrobe over Christmas, so I think it's time to be a good girl again for a while.

Last year, lured by Auntie Doris' enthusiasm, I joined Slimming World, found it great and lost a stone and a half (21lbs) and successfully kept it off. Until now. So will go back on the SW plan for a few weeks.

M.
 

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Posted by Flausa (# 3466) on :
 
So just wondering how everyone's doing. I went on maintenance for a month and am now cutting down again for a month just to see what I can get this body to do. I've been weightlifting, power walking, and running and have been thrilled with the way I'm getting stronger, faster, and leaner.

So how are you doing with your goals?
 

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Posted by Meg the Red (# 11838) on :
 
Sounds like you're really doing well, Flausa - good for you.

It's the final weigh-in tomorrow for my workplace Biggest Loser competition. I haven't had the energy to do much besides regular walking, but I've managed to lose about 12 pounds in the last three months; it won't put me in the money, but I at least I haven't embarrassed myself. Hopefully now that I'm moving on to a job that won't eat my evenings and weekends, I can actually muster enough oomph to up the ol' exercise and get rid of the last 15 pounds.

[ 11. April 2012, 17:53: Message edited by: Meg the Red ]
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
I'm back on monitoring and watching my intake. I've been pretty good the last few months as far as eating right, but after an epic eating binge on easter I decided it was time to walk the straight-and-narrow for awhile. plus, it's time to shed the extra winter weight.

things have changed also, in that I've developed a pretty dramatic gluten sensitivity. I knew I was prone to gut problems before with it, and gave it up after christmas. but now, I can't "cheat" anymore - even the littlest bit makes me really sick. like, miss-work-sick. so I'm having to change habits which is an interesting learning curve, but in the long run it's all for the good.
 

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Posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe (# 5521) on :
 
I've been careless for a few months and have gained a few pounds as a result. I've gone out a notch on most of my belts, and most of my jeans have become snug. But I'm back on my regimen (Atkins Diet) and am confident I'll lose the pounds again -- and hopefully some more!

This time of the year in Arizona, the "snowbirds" (temporary residents who have fled harsh winter climates) are starting to pack up and return home, so the swimming pool will be relatively empty once again, and I can resume my swimming regimen. The pool is too crowded with the snowbirds all here. I live in an over-55 community, and the "old people" as I call them don't swim -- they walk back and forth in the water, and always at 90 degree angles to the lap lanes. So it's very difficult to swim laps with so many snowbirds in the pool.
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Flausa's amazing - she's turned into an ironwoman!

Good luck to Comet, Amanda B and Meg.

I've been doing poorly on weight loss for the last three months. Moving country is unexpectedly disturbing to all sorts of things (much more expensive, takes much longer to get set up, more admin than expected).

We left New Zealand at the end of January and we've only just gotten a flat a few weeks ago. I start my job next week. So I've been in limbo and waiting about for a long time.

I've been logging on and off on My Fitness Pal but haven't actually lost any weight since I left NZ (well, I've fluctuated by about a kilo but haven't gotten lower overall). Last year I lost about 7-8 from my initial goal of 10 kilos. (15- 17 pounds from a goal of 20ish).

In the plus side, I haven't gotten a lot fitter and more toned from walking hours most days.

I need to go food shopping now and fill the house with fruit n veg!
 

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Posted by ecumaniac (# 376) on :
 
Hi folks,

Is there anyone on MFP who would would like to friend me (pretty pliease *bats eyelashes*)? I've signed (back) on to do some food tracking, after I noticed that I'll go days where I just have tea & toast for dinner and then wonder why I have no energy to do anything...
 

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Posted by Auntie Doris (# 9433) on :
 
What's your MFP name?

Auntie Doris x
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
ecu - I'm tkacomet on MFP. not the most regular of posters but I'd happily add you!
 

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Posted by ecumaniac (# 376) on :
 
Found you
 

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Posted by Campbellite (# 1202) on :
 
Progress report:
Weight is unchanged since January, still at +/- 87 Kg, but I was forced, kicking and screaming the whole way, to buy a new belt, two sizes smaller! Down from a 40 to a 38. w00t!

[ 20. April 2012, 16:57: Message edited by: Campbellite ]
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Campbellite:
Progress report:
Weight is unchanged since January, still at +/- 87 Kg, but I was forced, kicking and screaming the whole way, to buy a new belt, two sizes smaller! Down from a 40 to a 38. w00t!

---

Great work!
 

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Posted by mark_in_manchester (# 15978) on :
 
hi Folks -

Mind if I drop in? I struggle to keep weight off, though these days I'm at the bottom end of my swing (top end a few years back was three stone up). I don't know much about dieting, apart from a simple Joules in - Joules out thing.

I'm a bugger for sugar - it takes me about 3 weeks of total cold turkey to lose 'the taste' (as my alcoholic friends call it), and about 1-2 days lapse to be right back at the start of another 3 week slog.

Is this common?
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
Oh yes, I recognise that pattern all too well! You are not alone.
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
sugar is my bad one too. I can pretty much give up anything else. sugar owns me.
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
ecu- I'm NorthEastQuine on MFP.
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
I was thinking about my sugar comment today and have to say that I am pretty much the same with cheese. Why can't I have just one piece of cheese?
 

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Posted by PeteC (# 10422) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Welease Woderwick:
I was thinking about my sugar comment today and have to say that I am pretty much the same with cheese. Why can't I have just one piece of cheese?

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You can't because it tastes so good.

Re sugar: If you know too much sugar will kill you, or make you very ill, at least, you will find it easy to give it up. This makes my very occasional small sugar treat a pleasure.
 

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Posted by Mary LA (# 17040) on :
 
Oh, cheese.

I think of it as the mousetrap syndrome.

If it's there, I eat it. Especially late at night with rye bread or crackers or just on its own.

Brie, Camembert, Gorgonzola, Roquefort, Bel Paese, Fontina, Mascarpone, Pecorino sardo, Provolone, Taleggi.

In my next life I am coming back as a chocoholic. Much nicer sweet-toothed people.
 

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Posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe (# 5521) on :
 
Cheese is actually a very useful diet food, being that most cheeses have next to no carbohydrate content.

My favorite salad dressing is mayonnaise into which I have crumbled some Stilton. (Stilton is not easy to find over here, and rather expensive, but worth every penny!)
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
Resists temptation to write a paean of praise for Stilton and blue cheeses in general.
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Hi Mark, some suggestions re: sugar (do ignore if they don't fit you)...

What about trying to increase the amount of lean protein and complex carbs you're eating? i.e. a boiled egg or porridge for breakfast instead of toast n jam or cereal. The aim is to stay fuller for longer and avoid sugar rushes then slumps.

Even fruit can be very sugary - try carrot sticks n hummus or light yoghurt instead as a snack (or a few nuts - they're high in calories but filling). Other thoughts are: Wholemeal bread (and not much of it), brown rice, potatoes, cottage cheese, eggs, lean meats etc etc. And lots and lots of veges, of course.

Also, I find tiredness directly leads to sugar/ fat cravings. Don't know if it works like that for you?

Good luck!
 

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Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Hi guys!

Please can you throw some inspiration my way? Struggling with weight-loss for all sorts of reasons (should read 'excuses'!) and finding it hard to pull the magic bunny out of the hat!

Managed 50lb loss a few years ago but put lots back on and struggled nearly every month to put that right - managed 12 lbs off since this time last year but can't get beyond that: HELP

Thanks guys!
 

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by harmony hope:
Please can you throw some inspiration my way?

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quote:

---

Originally posted by comet:
Miss Amanda - I've been eating similar to Atkins - following the Primal Blueprint more or less - but I'm really concerned about the impact on cholesterol. Honestly, I've been putting off my bloodwork! so you really found it improved? I just need some encouragement, I think!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by harmony hope:
Hi guys!

Please can you throw some inspiration my way? Struggling with weight-loss for all sorts of reasons (should read 'excuses'!) and finding it hard to pull the magic bunny out of the hat!

Managed 50lb loss a few years ago but put lots back on and struggled nearly every month to put that right - managed 12 lbs off since this time last year but can't get beyond that: HELP

Thanks guys!

---

Hi Harmony Hope,

Great work on the 50 lb! (and the 12 re-lost...) Both substantial victories.

Motivation is a tricky thing and I think it varies quite a lot from person to person. Vanity if my overiding motivation (a little bit of wanting to avoid a strong family history of colon cancer, but mostly pure wanting to look better).

I find things that slow me down/ stop me are:

* Massive life changes like moving country, new job etc.
* Not taking time to be honest and pay attention to my feelings. I can comfort eat because I'm not paying attention to and dealing more healthily with my feelings.
* Being over-tired/ frantically busy.

Things that help are:

* Small goals
* Taking it day by day and not giving up at hurdles
* Support from others (something like Weight Watches or the MyFitnessPal website)
* Seeing some progress
* My husband being on board with me
* Plenty of reasonably gentle exercise so I have extra calories to eat and feel virtuous.

Good luck!!
 

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Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Thanks for the tips - Amanda and Eleanor Jane! I am determined this is the first step towards my transformation...

Will keep this thread visible on my PC to remind me!
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
I'm back on MFP! And Eleanor Jane I've just said Hello as your friend...I wonder when you sent the Friend request?!
Porky Dormouse has to lose some weight!
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Dormouse:
I'm back on MFP! And Eleanor Jane I've just said Hello as your friend...I wonder when you sent the Friend request?!
Porky Dormouse has to lose some weight!

---

Hello back at ya! No idea when I requested, must've been ages ago.

My weightloss has completely stalled what with a very demanding new job involving hours (often up to four hours) commuting. I'm still logging though and hoping to settle down a bit and do better.

Cheers,
EJ
 

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Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Hi there Dormouse and Eleanor Jane! Am at home convolescing after op and have just signed onto MFP again...but with new persona for new start...

If you can find me under 'campervangirl' and be my friend then that would be great! Think I'm going to follow the Gi way of eating and exercise more and having buddies along the way will sure help!
 

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Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Just wondering if the June fitness race is going to take place this year? I love taking part!
 

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Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Just wondering if the June fitness race is going to take place this year? I love taking part!
 

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Posted by Curiosity killed ... (# 11770) on :
 
The Fitness Race is usually January and July - although we did August one year. Hadn't thought that far ahead, currently have a few other details to sort out before I can think about it.
 

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Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Yes of course - sorry thought it was June instead of July!
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Hmm... some encouragement to exercise would be helpful.

I'm working on bringing sanity back to my lifestyle so I can re-focus on healthy eating and eventually some more weightloss.

I think I've put on a couple of kilos that I lost (about 4 pounds) so I need to get those off again and keep going down. I'm feeling a bit heffalumpy at the moment- hot weather means my knees venture forth...
 

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Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :
 
I'll be having my quarterly bloodwork at the end of the month. If I do get to go to the OKC/Santa Fe Shipmeet, I'll be getting the bloodwork done after wandering around being tempted by some of the world's best beefsteak... and frybread! Or, if I don't get to go this year, I'll be eating like a frustrated and depressed Cajun for the month of June, before the tests. Either way, we'll see what effect that has on the results.

I usually have really decent "numbers" -- all the lipds are great and the A1C is good. That's the meds doing it, I guess.

I do better in my eating (re: both quantity and "good" versus "bad" food) if I eat a lot of protein and if I don't cut the fats down.
 

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Posted by Liberty (# 713) on :
 
So I lost 23 pounds since Christmas, just by using MFP, making sure I only ate the allotted calories, and exercised if I ate more. I'm happy, especially as I worked 70 hour weeks and had a difficult boss.

But my sugar addiction is worse than ever. (See difficult boss!)

I am now on summer break from school for 2 months and hope to lose another 15 pounds. Any advice?
 

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Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
I'm cautiously joining this thread as I have rather a lot to lose and the past six months have been hopeless on that front, for various reasons. I find it's all to do with getting your head in the right place. Mine's been in the wrong one for quite a while - that's led to tiredness, sugar cravings, stuffing in the carbs because they're easy to eat and give a quick burst of energy.

But my head-place seems better at the moment. Not much weight is coming off, though. I've lost half a stone from my heaviest weight. I'd like to lose two and a half more...
 

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Posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe (# 5521) on :
 
There's lots of advice on the Web for overcoming sugar cravings. This one seems typical.

But I'm one to talk. I've been succumbing to weakness lately myself, and have gone out a notch on my belt once again. I've also noticed that I strain a little more than I used to when bending over to tie my shoes. This despite swimming vigorously for one-half hour each day.

I've fallen into the trap of thinking that sugar substitutes are better than sugar. Thus, I've been eating a lot of "no sugar added" ice cream, for example. Such foods are sweetened with so-called "alcohol sugars" (sorbitol, maltitol, etc.), which actually are neither sugar nor alcohol and are supposedly metabolized more slowly than sugar itself. The idea is that the body eliminates them before they can be digested. The jury is out on whether or not this is actually true.

Bottom line, though, I've finally been able to go cold turkey on no-sugar-added ice cream; I haven't had any for two weeks now. I have to start eating more fruit. I'm fond of strawberries, which are relatively low in carbs compared to other fruits. They're readily available now at reasonable prices, and I'm hoping that they will help satisfy my sweet tooth.
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
I've started back in with MFP after my long hiatus. It's a tough one for me because its so easy for me to go towards the obsession point. with me, this doesn't lead to much loss but it does lead to lots of self-hatred which I really need to avoid. So I'm avoiding my scale and my body fat percentage measurer thingie; trying to keep track of carbs more than cals, and keeping tabs more on how I feel per day, etc. It's not a perfect system butI have to be careful as I suspect I'm a pretty good candidate for eating disorder issues if I let myself get all demented again - last year I started the binge-purge thing and kind of scared myself.

I did put on weight this spring - don't know about scale pounds but everything has been tight and uncomfortable. just the last few days I've noticed some of that pressure letting up and I can fit one of my stage costumes again that fit last year and hasn't fit comfortably so far this year. so yay for that.

my biggest problems revolve around "reward" eating - basically, feeding my stress with sweets. my kids (meaning well!) like to give me gifts of chocolate if they can see I'm stressed so I need to work that out somehow. I also go into a feeding frenzy when I'm feeling very tired, which is a lot.

I'm trying, folks. it's hard stuff. I don't want to be all obsessive and hating myself but I can't deny that those are the times I get the leanest. frustrating.
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Although my original intention was to improve my shocking bp & cholesterol levels I was really pleased with the effect of the DASH diet on my weight in the first months, but have been stuck on a plateau for about a year now. I fell off the wagon over Christmas which resulted in a substantial gain, and threats of more medication from my GP. That has been dealt with, but I am now stuck back at the same point on the plateau - and with my son's wedding planned for next spring I need to drop a couple more sizes so that I can wear a dress

So I've joined mfp - and discovered something interesting; I'm not eating enough!

My calorie, and probably more significantly my protein, intake has been too low on most days, and my metabolism has probably been in starvation mode. I must admit that I have been below the DASH targets for 'meat' and 'fat' much of the time, so it's all my own fault.
I'm having to make a few adjustments.

It took me a few days to suss out the unreliability of the mfp food database, and now I avoid, as far as possible, the 'starred' information (added by members) - having discovered that the bread I was eating supposedly had no carbs! Nor anything else, other than calories. Presumably the person who added it to the database was only interested in counting calories not in nutrition.

I'm not particularly interested in the social side of mfp (and find the obsessive nature of the forum posts I've read quite scary) but the record-keeping is useful. How effective it is remains to be seen.
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Hi All,

So generally things are going better than last time I posted (although somewhat ironically I'm eating the head of an Easter Bunny made of sugar as I write... it fits into my daily calories).

I've lost some more weight, taking me down about 20 pounds in the last 10 months or so (several months off due to moving countries). I'm now the smallest I've been for years and years but I'm still a size 14(UK)and I'd really like to be a size 12 (UK). On we go...

Good luck all! Comet, nice to see you back and I do hope you can find a healthy balance.

Liberty - 15 pounds in two months is a lot! Good luck, but I'd say 8 pounds in two months would be a very good result too!

Rose of Sharon, I'm 'Eleanorjanethinner' if you want to 'friend' me.

Nenya, I totally agree about needing to get your head right. I find it takes a lot of mental energy to diet - it's like a daily hobby.

Amanda, I find the worst sugar thing is that I've been trained to think that I *should* eat some thing sweet after dinner and I usually feel like something sweet after a savoury lunch too. For after dinner I try and make sure I've got enough calories for a Cadbury's light choc mousse (about 50ish) or a Muller mini corner yoghurt (about 110), or some defrosted frozen berries (or strawberries) and a spoonful of greek yoghurt and honey. During the day I eat fruit, muesli (granola) bars, the occasional yoghurt, the ocassional bit of cake or pastry (I do love cakes and pastries!)

I also drink lots of decaf coffee cos I find hot drinks help pad out a snack.

Right, that's my essay over.

cheers,
EJ
 

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Posted by Hebdom (# 14685) on :
 
I'm back!
Long silence because of lost password when I upgraded my system.

Have just installed My Fitness Pal and it's inspired me to lose 1.6 kg this week. That won't last, of course, but it's a great start. Thanks to all those who've discussed MFP while I've been lurking.

Does the fascination with it last long enough to lose a decent amount of weight? I'm in for the long haul.
 

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Posted by Liberty (# 713) on :
 
I think MFP can become a habit, so once formed it is part of normal routine.

However, as comet suggests, whether it's a good habit or a bad one is more specific to each person.
 

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Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :
 
I did the Santa Fe Meet, wandered over several states eating my way through any foods I wanted in whatever quantity I wanted, for a bit over two weeks. If I wasn't dining out and getting ridiculous with a menu, I was cooking massive crockpots of stuff myself. And there was minimal exercise for this Meet, no horses or whitewater, only some light hiking. Came home, went to do my quarterly testing.

Waiting for more test results, maybe Monday; so far, A1C was (high by the standard I set myself, but still quite) acceptable to the doctor, at 6.6. Since I take only 500 mg of Metformin, doctor suggested I could go up to 1000 mg if I wanted to. I may do so; we'll see, after all the tests are reported.

And I lost 10 pounds.
 

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

And I can now be all boastful and say I now weigh a fraction less than I did when I went to UK at the beginning of May.
 

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Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :
 
T'ain't braggin' iffen hit's true, WW.
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Hi Hebdom,

I'd say it's entirely up to you as to whether the facination lasts... I've been on MFP on and off for almost a year - I've seen plenty come and go but I've also seen plenty lose heaps of weight and stick it out for the long haul.

I do think MFP combines most of the psychological and practical things you need to lose weight, but the motivation comes from within and I find it does take daily effort to keep focused and make good choices.

I've managed to pretty much kick comfort eating, but I still do 'celebration eating/drinking' and go over my calories that way. Still, I'm generally on the right track these days...

Cheers,
EJ

PS - well done all on the weight loss!
 

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Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :
 
Total cholesterol was 168; LDL "Bad" was 93; doctor considers those very nice numbers.

HDL "Good" was only 42, which is the very lowest end of OK, depending upon your chart. But, then, I've always had an insufficient amount of "Good".

Triglicerides were not nice -- I scored 163, when 150 is the highest normal score. Doctor suggests alcohol as a possible culrpit. I am not the big drinker -- one stiff Margarita & I'm cross-eyed -- but there was more than my usual imbibing going on through June. Some of that there celebration stuff mentioned above, I think.

The same vacation that gave me the 10-pound weight loss gave me extra trigycerides. Ah, well.
 

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Posted by Enigma (# 16158) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Eleanor Jane:
I've managed to pretty much kick comfort eating, but I still do 'celebration eating/drinking' and go over my calories that way. Still, I'm generally on the right track these days...

Cheers,
EJ

PS - well done all on the weight loss!

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quote:

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Originally posted by Roseofsharon:

So I've joined mfp - and discovered something interesting; I'm not eating enough!

My calorie, and probably more significantly my protein, intake has been too low on most days,

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The increased calorie/protein intake seems to be working, I've lost 2kg in the first fortnight and finally crossed that 20kg barrier.
I am finding mfp useful for keeping an eye on my sodium, potassium and cholesterol intake as well as calories & protein, but have removed the record of carbohydrates consumed as I find my gut likes a wholegrain rich diet in order to work comfortably (TMI, I know )
 

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Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :
 
No, no, not TMI! I remain convinced that a portion of our weight loss woes would disappear if we could just fine-tune our digestions. Seriously! We know we simply feel better when... things... are ticking along correctly. We know we feel less bloaty, actually a bit physically smaller in the abdomen. And we make full use of the nutrition if things are working well. There's even a chart/scale thingy that will show you a picture of what proper stools look like.

Maybe all that was TMI.
 

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Posted by Starbug (# 15917) on :
 
In an attempt to stop buying chocolate bars from the friendly tea trolley ladies at work, I've subscribed to receive weekly Graze boxes. You can choose which snacks to recieve. Here's the address if anyone else is interested: www.graze.com
 

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Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :
 
Due to upcoming changes in income -- the FG is taking a break, maybe for months, from his work as a shipyard welder, for some retraining -- call it a preview of retirement, I guess --

I have killed my gym membership. At his request. because we'll have less discretionary income to pay for it, and especially because we're going to have time now to exercise together. Mmm-hmmm. We'll see how that works out.

So -- after something over a year in the gym, using a fancy eliptical ski-like machine with variable settings, I had lost little/no weight, but my stamina was nice, things had, um, shifted a bit... I think the gym was worthwhile. I'd set that machine for hill-walking and I'd set the resistance higher and higher, so it got to be weight-bearing as well as aerobic. I shall miss it.

We plan to walk uphill and down over the Intercoastal Waterway bridge for our exercise regimen. Hopefully the change will kickstart some new weight loss.
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
consider setting goals and making a (flexible) schedule with your walks and other activities. perhaps with non-edible rewards for meeting benchmarks. it will help keep you from slacking off away from the gym.

I have no gym available. but I've found when I don't have workout buddies I'm a horrible slacker. so I make schedules with goals and put them on the fridge so my kids nag me about them. it works for me.
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
In terms of exercise, I just walk these days. I generally quite enjoy/ don't mind walking and I walk about 25 min each way to work most day so it fits into my daily routine. In the weekends I usually try and walk for several hours (like around the shops or a park or whatever) to offset some indulgent eating or drinks.
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
I've been back on MFP for a couple of weeks now. trying to use it more as an analysis tool rather than a way to lie to myself or make myself suffer. no judgements, right? no judgements.

so what I'm finding is a pattern I need to figure out how to fix. I'll eat great for one day - sometimes two - and the next day I'll gorge on crap. What I don't understand is that the days I'm eating well I'm not left feeling hungry or "deprived" - I actually enjoy it, feel good, etc - so it's not about deprivation/reward.

The things that lead me to eat the wrong stuff tend to be busy-ness and availability. The reality I'm trying to embrace rather than beat myself up about is that I don't cook much in the summers - I'm all grab-and-go. But when I try to stock up with freshies and such, I just dont eat them. After a long performance day in hot temperatures and hotter temperments, all I want is something sugary. or something made by someone else - i.e. restaurant food. I'm getting pretty good at ordering the PITA style - "burger, no bun, salad instead of fries... etc" but it's still not the answer.

carrying my camelbak bottle with me everywhere is definitely helping - just keeping drinking metric buttloads of water or unsweetened ice tea and it really does a lot of good. but it's not all of the answer.

ideas?
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Have you tried checking your blood glucose levels when you get the urge to eat badly?
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
It sounds like maybe tiredness and stress might be causing you to crave sugar and restaurant food. Just recognising how you're feeling (emotionally as well as physically) might help, and making plans to try and mitigate i.e. more rest, finding other self-nuturing behaviours instead of eating?

Keep experimenting and see how it goes, I guess.

Personally, I don't think I'll ever get over comfort eating, but at least if I'm using it occasionally, consciously and mitigating it then I won't just get fatter.
 

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Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:
Have you tried checking your blood glucose levels when you get the urge to eat badly?

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quote:

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Originally posted by Eleanor Jane:
It sounds like maybe tiredness and stress might be causing you to crave sugar and restaurant food.

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I think this is definitely it. also, my schedule is so whacked that no matter which job I'm either missing meals, sleep, or both - every day. I can try to plan for it and do okay but when I don't, that's when things go bad. I need to just be anal about planning my food.

I'm from a family with type 1 Diabetes, so I get myself checked quarterly. I have yet to have any blood sugar issues according to the numbers. Still, I watch myself close and try to avoid the low-blood-sugar evil comet moments.

I'm pretty sure my specifically sugary cravings are more of a stress reaction. MS gives me a very debilitating chronic fatigue, which is aggravated by stress. so if I'm in the middle of chaos, I can get hit with a wave of fatigue than can knock me on my ass. literally. I'm pretty sure I crave sugar as a quick energy boost at those times.
 

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Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :
 
That "evil comet moment" thing I understand. Even if I didn't always feel the other classic stuff that makes you wonder if your blood sugar's tanking, I was hitting a very surly ready-to-make-heads-roll phase some days. Several times I checked the levels around those episodes, found nothing amiss.
 

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Posted by Curiosity killed ... (# 11770) on :
 
My daughter who did have CFIDS had that blood sugar drop, and still does to some extent. We carried cereal bars and a small carton of fruit juice everywhere as a way of dealing with that sugar low. If caught unprepared, a bag of dried fruit and nuts (and chocolate chips) also worked. She's now got sesame seed bars as one of the few things she's not allergic to in her desk. We were aiming for something fast release (sugar, fruit juice, chocolate, dried fruit) and something longer release (nuts, cereal) to both deal with the immediate sugar low, and when that hit passed have something still coming and buy enough time to get home / cook.
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Hey all,

Anyone see the Hairy Bikers on UK TV last night (for those of you not here, they're two overweight middle aged guys with beards and long hair who ride motorcycles and cook amazing (but generally not very good for) food.) They're on a weight loss kick now and reinventing their favourite foods as healthy options. Nothing radical but some good ideas and inspiration.

See: BBC Hairy Bikers Page

Cheers,
Eleanorjane

PS - feeling porky but uninspired to do anything about it yet. I'll get there...
 

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Posted by Enigma (# 16158) on :
 
I'm off on a cruise next week which I'm anticipating with delight for switch off and relaxation time. Rather worried about food aspect though. Will need to try hard to keep in control so that I don't have a huge surplus to deal with when I get back.
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Yes. I watched the first episode on iPlayer yesterday afternoon, and then ep 2 in the evening.
I was almost in tears hearing Si tell his "Simon King is on a diet" story. It clearly left a significant scar that is still painful today.

I thought the leek-lasagna was a good idea, but I'll be interested to see how they manage to turn out a 'low-fat' pie next week. I will be disappointed if they use filo!

And doesn't that student from the slimming club look amazing?

Wish I'd done this while my skin still had some elasticity, I'm seeing lots of wrinkles that used to be padded out with fat and I've discovered that there are varicose veins in my legs - they used to be well hidden under the blubber

[ 10. August 2012, 21:21: Message edited by: Roseofsharon ]
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
interesting development for me. after reading an article on a weight lifter blog about omega-3's being good at helping your body process body fat, I temporarily upped my dose of salmon oil to 10 grams. suddenly, I'm not craving sugars. like, much at all. so at least in the short term, it's totally worth the 10 honking big pills (along with all my others) and the salmon burps.

I already was taking 4 grams a day as part of my regular supplements.
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
I'm worried - two separate people I know reasonably well have complimented me on my recent weight loss. Sad thing is, I weigh daily, and I can assure them that not an ounce has slunk away!

Does this just mean that I used to look even fatter?

It isn't even that I have taken to wearing a girdle (yuck!)

Mrs. S, breathing in!
 

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Posted by Ferijen (# 4719) on :
 
11 weeks post birth, I have kept on thinking about joining this thread. I fitted back into my normal clothes within a week, but those clothes are a size bigger than the ones I was wearing two years ago. Anyway, today the doctor has advised me to go dairy free for a month to treat the ferijenet's reflux. As my favourite food since he was born (and before) is ice cream and chocolate, maybe his will have other nice consequences.

Meanwhile, any ideas for calcium-rich, dairy-free meals welcome..,
 

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Posted by Curiosity killed ... (# 11770) on :
 
Calcium containing foods that are dairy free are tofu (or soy beans generally), beans, dried apricots, figs, fish particularly sardines with the little bones, green leafy vegetables - can you tell I have a dairy allergic daughter?
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
For those in the UK (apologies to the Rest of the World!), have you seen the Hairy Dieters yet? Now there's an example to one and all - Mr. S was watching it last night with me and I saw him turn pale when some of the food they usually ate was calorie-counted!

He LOVES cheese, and chocolate, and ice-cream ... but it's no good my nagging him. Let's hope Dave's concept of 'wearing a gilet stuffed with lard' has the desired effect!


Mrs. S, too fat for one pair of black linen trousers and too thin for the other!
 

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Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Ferijen:
.... any ideas for calcium-rich, dairy-free meals welcome..,

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quote:

---

Originally posted by Enigma:
I'm off on a cruise next week which I'm anticipating with delight for switch off and relaxation time. Rather worried about food aspect though. Will need to try hard to keep in control so that I don't have a huge surplus to deal with when I get back.

---

You might be pleasantly surprised - I actually lost weight without trying when I was on a cruise because the healthy options were all so yummy.
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
Ferijen - here we have coconut milk ice cream. it's DIVINE. no dairy no gluten and only real sugar. (otherwise, not terribly good for you...) if you can find some, give it a try, it's my favorite thing.
 

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Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Having another go at the weight loss thing.....really more interested in getting fit. Am hopeless at motivating myself but will see how it goes!
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Oh dearie, dearie me. I have come back from 6 weeks in the UK, and while I don't THINK I have put on much weight (the Summer school provided 3 very square meals a day) Mr D has admitted to "being worried" about me, as he thinks I've put on weight. I do feel older and less mobile than I should feel at 52, although that is partly down to problem feet, sciatica and a bad back...

But despite this, I can't quite motivate myself into doing anything much about it. I don't want to feel as blobby as I do but I can't see how to get out of this "bleuch, don't want to" feeling. I hate exercising - my feet/back combo doesn't help much - and yet, as an intelligent woman, I know I should be doing it. I enjoy my food, and try to make (in general) healthy choices, but...

How on earth can I get myself doing this? Flausa was a real inspiration a couple of years back, but I'm of a "I can't do that" frame of mind. I suppose I want it to be easy, and I know it isn't, and even though Mr D says we both need to diet (and he could do with shedding a few kilos, it's true) he does the exercise that I don't (he loves cycling and does kilometre after kilometre) and so when he eats almost half a flute for lunch (the french bread flute, not the musical ionstrument) I feel thoroughly miffed that I've just had a small-in-comparison chunk.

Grrrrr. I have researched swimming pools near work and think I can get to one maybe twice a week (hate swimming, but I suppose it's good for feet/back sufferers) but again feel unmotivated.

Sorry. This is a real whinge.
 

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Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Doormouse, this the place to whinge. Not having that much control over what food is on offer to you will be tough. Also having read your blog i'm sure that you are tired which can't be helping. I'm at the beginning of the trying to lose weight/ getting fit journey so at the moment am enthusiastic, but am sure that it won't last.

The Hairy Bikers are doing a new series on low fat/ calorie versions of there favorite foods, which might give you some inspiration.
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Nearly eight weeks since I started logging everything I eat on MFP, and I've shifted another 5kg.
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Great work, Rose of Sharon!!!

Dormouse... I sympathise (and feel free to whinge).

If you want advice (feel free to ignore if not). I'd suggest focussing on the eating first 'cos that will make a bigger impact on your weight than exercise. I've found the MyFitnessPal website helpful for tracking calories (amazing how many are in a big egg and cress sandwich) but anything similar will do - WeightWatchers etc.

You can eat a reasonable amount if you change what you eat i.e. low fat yoghurt instead of full fat, porridge instead of cereal, lots of low fat protein, veges, pulses and grains (not that I eat grains other than porridge - I love white bread).

It's a slow process of change with many steps backwards, but some of the main things is making small steps and persistence.

In terms of exercise, I'd suggest starting small. Being almost completely sedentary, I started walking 15 minutes to work. That became easier so I added in a 15 minute walk at lunchtime some days, yoga some days and even Zumba! Now in the UK I can walk for several hours (although I still get a bit stiff).

I find this blog quite inspiring - she's a teacher who mainly blogs about fashion on a budget but she was on a health, relaxation and restoration kick over her summer holidays.

Good luck to all and kia kaha (stand strong)!

Cheers,
Eleanorjane

[ 20. August 2012, 21:35: Message edited by: Eleanor Jane ]
 

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Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :
 
I knew when the spouse retired that all my semi-successful patterns of health eating/exercise would be shot to Hell. Amazing how much I used to get done when I could park the FG at work all day. (Why does that sound like the whinge of a mother looking with dismay at a long school-less summer of all-daily exposure to her own children?)

I will go weigh myself at work as soon as I gather (a) a few moments to go do it and (b) the NERVE. I feel all puffy and blobby. I bet that 10 lbs. I lost on that vacation in June have all come back and brought friends.

*Sigh*...
 

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Posted by Ferijen (# 4719) on :
 
Right, having stepped on the scales i am within half a pound of my starting weight when i lost 2stone with WW a few years ago. Only half a stone if that can be attributed to pregnancy, so I have joined MFP so if anyone would like to add me, I'm ferijen there too...

I have a wedding to go to on December 1st and I know that the dress I am going to wear requires me to be at least a stone lighter.

[ 21. August 2012, 08:25: Message edited by: Ferijen ]
 

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Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :
 
I'm feeling all lardy and blubbery at the moment as well, and have put back most of the weight I lost last year. I'm back trying to track on MFP. And going out for dinner with daisydaisy tonight...
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
I'm going to whinge, too. I keep losing and regaining and relosing and regaining the same few pounds. Everything was going great with MFP, when the arthritis in my left wrist flared up badly. I don't know if this is connected but I felt generally unwell, too. So no exercise, because I felt crap, and feeling sore took my focus off food and - surprise, surprise, back to starting weight.

My son tells me he thinks my body hates me.

And I got my cholesterol test results back yesterday. 6.3. I know my doctor will tell me to lose weight (he tells me that every time I get my cholesterol results) However, my cholesterol was 6.3 when I was 28 and 5 stone lighter than I am now. In the last twenty years it's remained steady between 6.3 and 5.9. It's not that high (Mum was 9.something before she went onto statins, and other family members have hit double figures) but it's bothering me that I've had slightly raised cholesterol for at least 20 years now. The doctor says losing weight will bring it down, but as gaining weight didn't put it up, how will that work?

Whinge over.
 

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Posted by Yangtze (# 4965) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dormouse:
.... I can't quite motivate myself into doing anything much about it. I don't want to feel as blobby as I do but I can't see how to get out of this "bleuch, don't want to" feeling. ......

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Yangtze:
I believe the advice is basically to find something you do love and focus on that. I think this would work for both food and exercise.

---

I don't know... I'm not sure my focussing on chocolate would help... But I agree it's important to have and do the things you enjoy, otherwise you feel deprived and then binge.

I am not very fit but I do try to keep constantly active during the day. I have a desk job but get up at every opportunity to get a file, go to the printer for each letter, go to the post table for each individual stamp... I am very overweight, though, and find it hard to shift even a pound or two.
 

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Posted by Yangtze (# 4965) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by moonlitdoor:
If you are a couple of stone lighter than you want, you are a bit too expert if anything.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:

And I got my cholesterol test results back yesterday. 6.3. I know my doctor will tell me to lose weight (he tells me that every time I get my cholesterol results) However, my cholesterol was 6.3 when I was 28 and 5 stone lighter than I am now. In the last twenty years it's remained steady between 6.3 and 5.9. ...(snip)... The doctor says losing weight will bring it down, but as gaining weight didn't put it up, how will that work?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Yangtze:

So if you love cooking or researching recipes or courgettes or whatever it may be, really focus on doing more of that.

---

Researching recipes using courgettes is high on my list of interests at the moment - Courgettes, runner beans and swiss chard, all of which my garden is currently producing in quantity.
(All recipes low fat, of course )
 

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Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :
 
When I have any success with a garden, lots of veggies are eaten raw, standing there barefoot amongst the stalks and vines. Okra, for example, has never made it into the house to cook. The stuff is soooo good picked young and tender and eaten raw. You have to remember to pull your lips out of the way, though, or they'll get bristled.

Supper tonight was a lean piece of grilled pork loin, about three baby carrots and a good solid cup of green beans. And now to drink yet more water and go to bed... or maybe a popsicle!
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
Roseofsharon, I'm not suggesting weight loss doesn't reduce some / most people's cholesterol levels. It's just that I don't understand how losing weight could reduce mine, as mine has been pretty steady through my weight fluctuations (and overall considerable weight gain).

I was 6.3 when I weighed 10 stone, aged 28. I'm 6.3 weighing 15 stone, aged 48.

I think my diet may be healthier now. When I was 28 I was virtually vegetarian, but working long hours and frequently picking up a take-away pizza on my way home. Then once I had my kids I started becoming a bit obsessive about fresh fruit and veg and went back to eating white meat. Now I eat red meat as well, but I still try to get my five-a-day fruit and veg.

Chocolate has been my much-loved friend at all times and in all circumstances!!

Throughout it all, my cholesterol has remained between 5.9 and 6.3.
 

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Posted by Ancilla (# 11037) on :
 
Hi all. Belatedly joining this thread – I’ve realised at nearly 30 that I’m a lot fatter and a lot less fit than I used to be. Trying to cut down on carbs and cheese and do some power walking.

I’m hoping to start some good habits over Summer before I go back to college in September – where we get three meals a day plus morning cake, so avoiding temptation is pretty difficult Not that it’s so easy at home either – my beloved husband will remember for about a week and then go out and buy pizza again! Had a curry with cheese naan last night and the zip of my dress broke! definitely time to get back on the wagon…

Good luck all!
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:
Roseofsharon, I'm not suggesting weight loss doesn't reduce some / most people's cholesterol levels.

---

No, I realised that - I was just contemplating the possibility of unaltered cholesterol levels after all this effort.
Until December I'll be living in hope!

[ 22. August 2012, 16:05: Message edited by: Roseofsharon ]
 

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Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Week 1 of diet and have managed to lose a pound, now to keep going in the same direction!
 

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Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 
I've just started with MFP, inspired by the recipe ideas from the Hairy Bikers. I need to lose around 3 stone - which I achieved about 12 years ago but put it all back on again pretty quickly. I think it'll be tougher this time round because of my age now, but hope I'll be determined & stick to it. I'm also using a gizmo to measure my BMI which is currently just inside the obese range.
Now on day 2 of logging on MFP, but finding it hard balancing all the food allowances - so far I've gone over on sugars (yesterday - mainly due To fruit & salad from the allotment) and proteins (today) but low on calories & carbs (both days) possibly helped by cycling & gardening both days & earning more to add to my daily allowance. Maybe it'll settle down tomorrow when I am back behind my desk & finding exercise opportunities harder to come by. In some ways following WW points was easier, but I'm sure once I get what I usually eat into MFP it'll help.

[ 27. August 2012, 21:34: Message edited by: daisydaisy ]
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
My prospective daughter-in-law pointed out on Monday that my trousers were very baggy, so I am having another wardrobe cull.

Earlier along this road I disposed of a few really big things I was just beginning to grow into, and some that couldn't be easily altered. Since then I have been getting away with taking in and taking up the next size down but clearly that won't work any more.
Today I tried on some trousers I thought would still be too tight - and they fit!
They are three sizes smaller than the ones I have been wearing!
 

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Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:
....
Today I tried on some trousers I thought would still be too tight - and they fit!
They are three sizes smaller than the ones I have been wearing!

---

Congratulations! That is such a satisfying feeling.
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Thank you, yes it is.
My weight loss (now at 25Kg) was openly discussed by my DiL and prospective DiL on their recent visits, although I have not previously spoken about it within the family. This has brought it to the attention of Mr RoS, who said last night
"I know you've lost weight, but where has it gone from?"
I should be or , but really he is so unobservant that all I can do is
 

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Posted by Ferijen (# 4719) on :
 
Love is blind. Or something.

25kg though, Well done.
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
RoS, that is just amazing - I am so impressed! (amazed by Mr RoS, too, though!)

Managed to shed another pound and a half, which has brought me within sight of 10 stone - something I haven't been this close to in years! It was all helped by Mr. S coming over all thoughtful at the Hairy Dieters' body scans; he seems to have cut down on the crisps, sweets and ice cream so it's easier for me as well.

Mrs. S, a year - and a stone - to go to Miss S's wedding
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Tomorrow I am weighing myself at the swimming baths, hoping to have lost 8 pounds in 8 weeks.

We will see!


 

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Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:
Tomorrow I am weighing myself at the swimming baths, hoping to have lost 8 pounds in 8 weeks.

We will see!

---

quote:

---

Tomorrow I am weighing myself at the swimming baths, hoping to have lost 8 pounds in 8 weeks.

---

Boogie - did you make it?

Inspired by RoS's trousers (and that's not something you'll see me write very often!) I tried on the pair of black linen trousers that were too tight for me - see this thread, a long long way back. They were fine and I was delighted.

Mrs. S, breathing in
 

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Posted by Lucia (# 15201) on :
 
OK, another newcomer to the thread here. I was getting a bit overweight earlier in the year but just couldn't be bothered to do anything about it. Now having just spent a few weeks back in the UK visiting family and friends, eating all the foods I can't get here and being at the mercy of other people's cooking and those who express love by loading you up with vast quantities of fattening food the situation can no longer be ignored! Very few of my trousers now fit me comfortably, and most of the photos taken this summer confirm that I really do need to try to lose some weight before it is too late! (As my mother cheerfully informs me that it just gets harder as you get older )

So I have dug out the Weightwatcher's materials that I used in the past and started tracking my Points again. I wondered whether to join WW online but it is rather expensive for me at the moment so I thought perhaps I should check into this thread regularly for a bit of accountablitiy. Ideally I would like to lose 29lbs, although I would settle for 23. It seems such a long way to go! But I know what I have to do, just got to do it. For me the key is always to cut my carbohydrates right down and then I lose weight without getting too much of the horrid low blood sugar symptoms that I am prone to. An ommlette with cheese and turkey ham will get me right through to lunch time, the same number of WW points in cereal and toast will have me shaking, sweating, dizzy and feeling sick from low blood sugar by mid-morning and then I have to eat more. So it's not just about calories for me but also being very disciplined of what I eat and avoiding the things that set my blood sugar all over the place, like caffeine and carbs.

Then there is the whole other question of exercise....At least the temperature here has dropped a bit from the summer which is a bit more conducive to activity, but the truth is I hate having to exercise just for exercise's sake!
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Boogie - did you make it?

---

No - I lost 4 pounds


Never mind - onwards and downwards!
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
hey, it beats gaining!
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
I have to say, apropos of nothing really, that when reading through this thread, as I have to do, my eye automatically picks out WW and I wonder what I have done wrong now!

Over the festival season the last few weeks, despite eating far more than would be good for an entire family, I didn't put any weight on!

Okay, carry on.
 

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

quote:

---

No - I lost 4 pounds

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Boogie - did you make it?

---

No - I lost 4 pounds


Never mind - onwards and downwards!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dormouse:
Watching the last HB episode, I was concerned to hear them talking about "the end of the diet" - I do think that you can't think like that - it has to be a change in lifestyle which affects your eaing from then on. Although they were genuinely shocked by seeing the amount of weight that they had lost measured in lard, and then trying to lift it, and struggling!! I think that is a great way of showing yourself what you have lost: a block of butter is 250g - half a pound - but it's a good demonstration to look at and think about what you have succeeded in doing when you have "only" lost half a pound one week. That's a block of butter! That's bloody good going!

---

to all of that, Dormouse!

I refuse to talk about a 'diet' - a 'regime' is just about acceptable, but it has to be sustainable indefinitely. I do think that's why people have such issues with putting the weight back on once they reach their target weight, because they go back to the old ways of eating and guess what? they get fat again.

The other thing - as Dormouse alludes to above - is that it is HARD HARD HARD to lose fat - if it were easy, everyone would do it and we would all be slender. But it AIN'T. It's amazingly hard to lose even half a pound, but when you see that slab of fat you can understand why. But it's difficult to stay motivated if you think you *ought* to be losing it faster.

Finally (!) I think there's a sort of inertia or delay when people come to the end of a diet - they stay the same weight or even lose a bit more and they think, 'oh, I've got this licked' but in fact it's just their body taking time to adjust before it sighs with relief and starts building up the fat reserves again.

Sorry to go on so!

Mrs. S, visualising the packets of lard
 

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Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 
Thank you Dormouse for that reminder of what 2lbs looks like - it really does help me realise that actually 2lbs is significant.

My Hairy Dieter book arrived on Saturday morning, so I've been going through it to see how I can adapt those recipes that use dairy products and how the calories change (Soya products are lower so downwards in every case!). I'll probably use soya meat replacements a lot too, which again brings the calories down. At the moment I'm having quick & easy meals because I'm working on the vegetable patch from when I finish work until dark most evenings, leaving little time to cook "properly" but I'm looking forward to the time when I can try the recipes out.

With the help of some ideas taken from the HB series I had already started about 2 weeks ago, logging my food & exercise on MFP - so far I've lost 4lbs, so it's downwards but not as dramatically as the HB saw, but I think they reduced their calories rather dramatically which I'm not sure is a good idea - isn't there something where the body panics and starts to reduce the muscles rather than the fat? I've been eating most of the extra calories that I earn through exercise (amusingly, even flute practice gains me calories to eat!) and 2lb a week is, ISTM, a reasonable and steady loss - as long as it keeps coming off! I'll need to find another exercise for the winter though.
 

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Posted by Enigma (# 16158) on :
 
My conclusion in weight battle which I accept as being part of me is that .......................................wait for it!!!
Keep in your clothes!! I dropped a fair bit, now I fit my clothes and haven't had to buy any more since the new wardrobe size. Never a super model though!!
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by daisydaisy:
Thank you Dormouse for that reminder of what 2lbs looks like - it really does help me realise that actually 2lbs is significant.

---

2lbs a week is brilliant - well done!

I will get that Hairy Dieters cookbook, sounds great.

I'm still on 1300 calories a day - and, as Mrs S says, it's a regime not a diet. I really could keep this way of eating up ad infinitum. (and it looks like I'll have to at half a pound a week!!)

Onwards and downwards!


 

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Posted by Enigma (# 16158) on :
 
Well done all - 1 to 2 lb a week in the down direction all reckon is the way to go for health purposes. That's only a couple of cream cakes ans a portion of chips isn't it??
Salad and veg rule!!! (and a couple of chips too).
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
My campaign, which hadn't really started, ground to a halt when I started getting really painful sciatica last Thursday. I've been laid fairly low ever since...certainly doing no exercise!

Still, we are eating more fruit and vegetables, and less other stuff. I still like my carbs too much though!

When my Hairy book arrives I'm going to start properly with relogging onto MFP and trying to exercise a bit. Swimming and walking are my exercises of (not really) choice.
 

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Posted by Mr Curly (# 5518) on :
 
While resting after some cardiac issues that will drive me to be (finally) serious about my weight (lost 4 kg already, 8 to go), I watched the Hairy Bikers Tour of Britain from 2009 which was repeated on a digital channel here. I do love them but I dubbed it the Cardiac Tour due to the mountains of butter they used in everything.

Still, I've seen how much they lost in recent effort - good on them. Will keep an eye out for the book.

mr curly
 

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Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Have lost 4 and 1/2 pounds in the last 4 weeks. Trying to keep the motivation going now I'm back at Uni, and won't have the same time to make things from scratch.
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Hi All,

Some fantastic progress - well done guys!

Husband and I are back on the band wagon after an indulgent holiday in Krakow (the duck with beetroot and the plummy bread were particularly good. Plus the vodka!). I'm aiming to lose around 3kg (6ish pounds) by my birthday in early Nov.

Good luck to one and all...
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
We are not a family that throws things away, so over the years many of my "outgrown" clothes have been shoved up in the loft on the basis that I might be able to wear them again "one day".

At the weekend I got it all down and had a sort-out. It seems that "one day" has arrived, and has almost gone again, as I now have a mountain of summer dresses that are on the verge of being too big - just as the autumn arrives here.

It all has the smell of old stored clothes, so I am in the midst of washing it - can't say I'm looking forward to the ironing - and then I'll see if there's anything I want to keep before spreading the rest around the town's charity shops.
I'll have to concentrate on the ones that specialize in "vintage" clothes, as these are outfits from the eighties. Some with matching hats

And there are some even older (and smaller) clothes that will go back into the loft, because you never know...
 

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:
At the weekend I got it all down and had a sort-out. It seems that "one day" has arrived, and has almost gone again, as I now have a mountain of summer dresses that are on the verge of being too big - just as the autumn arrives here.

It all has the smell of old stored clothes, so I am in the midst of washing it - can't say I'm looking forward to the ironing - and then I'll see if there's anything I want to keep before spreading the rest around the town's charity shops.

---

That's deserving of another round of appplause, RoS - clear it all out, you'll feel So Much Better

Mrs. S, currently reviewing handbags - you don't grow too fat for those!
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 

quote:

---

Mrs. S, currently reviewing handbags - you don't grow too fat for those!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lothlorien:

quote:

---

Mrs. S, currently reviewing handbags - you don't grow too fat for those!

---

That's true, but it's the wear inside I look for. Unless the bag is extremely beautiful I don't keep bags with threadbare linings, stains, etc.

Then again, I have only one bag which cost a large amount of money, and one other which was also expensive although not so much. The really dear one has been used only a few times. I bought it with an ulterior motive - to show to ex- Mr L and his supporters that I was perfectly capable of looking after myself and was doing a good job of it. It shrieked quality. I bought it for ex-MIL's funeral and enjoyed wearing it. OK, not a good motive but it worked for me at the time.

---

DEEPLY IMPRESSED

I don't like to keep them when they show too many signs of wear but when they've been given to me, I have a hard time ditching them

Mrs. S, owner of a whole range of bags
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:
We are not a family that throws things away, so over the years many of my "outgrown" clothes have been shoved up in the loft on the basis that I might be able to wear them again "one day".

At the weekend I got it all down and had a sort-out. It seems that "one day" has arrived, and has almost gone again, as I now have a mountain of summer dresses that are on the verge of being too big - just as the autumn arrives here.

It all has the smell of old stored clothes, so I am in the midst of washing it - can't say I'm looking forward to the ironing - and then I'll see if there's anything I want to keep before spreading the rest around the town's charity shops.
I'll have to concentrate on the ones that specialize in "vintage" clothes, as these are outfits from the eighties. Some with matching hats

And there are some even older (and smaller) clothes that will go back into the loft, because you never know...

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Eleanor Jane:
The hats sound cool! But I'd be very much on the throwing away side of things. Maybe see the decluttering thread for inspiration!

---

Oh, I've had my turn on the decluttering thread.

Most of this stuff will be donated to charity but at the moment I'm still washing and ironing. There's far too much to dump on one charity shop all in one go, so I'm currently packing up the winter-weight clothing for the next couple of trips into town. The rest will follow in installments according to seasonality - and size.

I wore one of my old dresses for choir practice this week, which caused some comment as they are not used to seeing me in a dress, other than my concert black. I am thinking of having "one last wear" of each of my favourite eighties dresses whenever I go out, just for the fun of it, but I won't be keeping them. Apart from any other reason, I intend them to be too big in a few weeks.
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Rose of Sharon said

quote:

---

Oh, I've had my turn on the decluttering thread.

---

I had a lightbulb moment just then, seeing how many of us frequent both threads. What we are all striving for is to declutter our bodies of fat, as well as our living spaces of STUFF! (though we needn't go as far as HWMBO and have our appendices out also!)

Mrs. S, wondering exactly how this helps?
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Goodness me! I had to check the title of this thread when I read the last couple of posts. I wish it was as easy to declutter my waistline as it is to declutter my study (and as I'm not having much success with either at the moment, I'm not sure quite what that says about me...!)
 

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Posted by leo (# 1458) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Eleanor Jane:
Hi All,

Some fantastic progress - well done guys!

Husband and I are back on the band wagon after an indulgent holiday in Krakow (the duck with beetroot and the plummy bread were particularly good. Plus the vodka!). I'm aiming to lose around 3kg (6ish pounds) by my birthday in early Nov.

Good luck to one and all...

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dormouse:
I find I'm into triple figures (kilos not stones,

---

quote:

---

Mrs S - I don't remember ever weighing below 10stone. Once upon a time Mr RoS and I were both aiming to hit that weight, but from opposite sides. Despite all efforts he remains steadily stuck half a stone below the target and I've been up and down the scales many times and never got down anywhere near it. So well done you.

---

Thank you so much. For quite a lot of my life hitting 10 stone was a trigger to get to grips with my weight, but last time for some reason I just sailed past *sigh* and it has been hard, slow going to get back there. But it's all about motivation, isn't it? And also, doing it for your own benefit and no-one else's (otherwise if you have the hump with them you get that 'sod it' feeling and stray back into too much of the bad stuff.

So, be encouraged everyone - I find this thread great for that!

Mrs. S, giving three loud cheers for all of us
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Thank you for your support (and no, it didn't sound patronising) I'm back on My Fitness Pal (Dormouse85 - maybe I should make that my first goal - to ACTUALLY be Dormouse85kilos!) so if you're on there too, please give me a wave.

My Hairy Bikers book should be arriving next week and I'm feeling ken!!!! Of course, that may not last.

RoS did you have any tricks to help you with your BRILLIANT weightloss or was it just sheer bloody hard work, sweat and tears?
 

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Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
You can do it Doormouse.

Just stopping by to say I've lost half a stone since starting the new healthy regime.
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dormouse:

My Hairy Bikers book should be arriving next week and I'm feeling ken!!!! Of course, that may not last.

RoS did you have any tricks to help you with your BRILLIANT weightloss or was it just sheer bloody hard work, sweat and tears?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Jack the Lass:
(so I allowed myself either a Galaxy Ripple or a pack of Buttons each day, as they are around 180 - I figured giving up chocolate entirely would make me miserable and less likely to follow through).

---

quote:

---

I think my main downfall is eating between meals and portion size, and if I just wasn't so piggy I'd lose the blubber again.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:

quote:

---

Originally posted by Jack the Lass:
(so I allowed myself either a Galaxy Ripple or a pack of Buttons each day, as they are around 180 - I figured giving up chocolate entirely would make me miserable and less likely to follow through).

---

It's that feeling of being deprived that has finished off most diets for me over the years, and that's why I try to keep focussed on the blood-pressure & cholesterol lowering targets to the forefront of my mind. If I start thinking of weight-loss as the reason I am eating this way I will start feeling resentful and want to 'treat myself' to things that are not doing me any good.
That being said there is no food that I forbid myself, but do I try to indulge only infrequently and in small quantities.

quote:

---

I think my main downfall is eating between meals and portion size, and if I just wasn't so piggy I'd lose the blubber again.

---

It's so easy to let portion size expand over time - just heap that spoon a little bit higher, just cut that slice a smidgeon thicker. That's why I'm finding MFP, and my digital scales, so helpful in keeping an accurate track of what goes into my mouth.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Have you guys read
'Eating Less' by Gillian Riley?
A lot of what RoS says above echoes that book, and I found it useful. YMMV, but worth a look.

Mrs. S, weighing that muesli

---

You have caused my first impulse buy of the month - it is now on my Kindle awaiting me.



[ 18. September 2012, 07:59: Message edited by: Boogie ]
 

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Posted by Banner Lady (# 10505) on :
 
*sigh* There is nothing like the lights in a boutique changing room to bring home the awful truth - that and the fact that my arms wouldn't fit into certain jackets I tried on...oh yes, I am very safe from kidnapping right now, fellow shippies.

On the positive side, I read an ancient Indian love poem yesterday that lauded maidens with "the three fair folds splendidly circling their bellies." I may have to move to the sub-continent...
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Jack the Lass:
I think my main downfall is eating between meals and portion size,

---

I never ever used to feel full, unless I'd really pigged out, but I have come to recognise that most of my 'hungry' feelings were actually located in my mouth and throat, not my stomach, and they can be assuaged with a hot drink* - or by finding something absorbing to do.

A hot drink after my meal also gives my brain time to register that I have eaten enough and curbs the impulse to have seconds. Nowadays, if I pay attention to my stomach, I can tell when I've had enough

* A hot drink in my case is either fennel tea or elderflower tea (I find other infusions promise in aroma far more than they deliver in taste), or black coffee.

My 'danger time' is during meal preparation - twice a day, as Mr RoS needs lots of calories - and especially if it's a dish that has several stages that involve cooking something for a few minutes before adding the next ingredient. That's not long enough to leave the kitchen, but long enough to nibble quite a lot of the tasty things that live there and are not meant for me. I haven't found any sure-fire distractions for then, so have to try using willpower.
 

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Have you guys read
'Eating Less' by Gillian Riley?
A lot of what RoS says above echoes that book, and I found it useful. YMMV, but worth a look.

Mrs. S, weighing that muesli

---

You have caused my first impulse buy of the month - it is now on my Kindle awaiting me.

---

Mrs. S, always adept at spending other people's money!

In fact, following on from the lightbulb moment above - It's All About Control! Isn't it? We want to feel in control of our lives and so we attack that problem from which ever angle we feel we need the most help with - eating too much, sinking under the weight of our possessions, Telepath attacking the Finance Monster with a big stick - whatever...

(not sure how much that helps, tbh!)
 

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Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 
My sneaky mid-week weigh-in shows I've lost another 2 pounds, making it 8 so far since I started using ideas from Hairy Bikers and logging food on MFP. I am very happy with this rate of loss, and if it continues like this I should hit my target early next year. I am already noticing I don't have to squeeze into clothes and some things are much looser. I have found that when I get a snack attack I have a drink or think "that's not what I do now". Next week will be a challenge because I have a week in Spain, but hopefully there will be a lot of salad & fruit and other low calorie/fat options. I'll still be able to use MFP so that should help a bit.
 

---

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
One great thing about living here is sarees for the ladies and lunghis [sarongs] for the men so one size fits most!


 

---

Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 
I downloaded an app for the iPad last week - TapTrack - which aims to be a combo calorie-counter/ exercise log. It gives you a target for the day, consistent with your level of activity + weekly target weight loss.

Unfortunately my loggable activity is quite low (it doesn't seem to have a score for Mooching), so I appear on most days to have eaten 300 % more than requirement. OTOH yesterday, when I spent a couple of hours walking round shops, I could have wound up eating the dinner party I did on Thursday and still been under.

However, it does give you lots of pretty displays, and some illuminating statistics. The food finder is comprehensive and easy to use, and makes possible a pretty accurate record. I learn that on average I eat 2000 calories a day, which is fine for maintenance, but not loss. The other pluses are that it gives you something concrete to attempt, and the knowledge that you are going to record it can stay your hand from the biscuit tin.

How it will keep up when I go to Portugal for a fortnight is another matter.
 

---

Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 
I've got MFP on iPad (how did I exist without this!!) and am delighted to find that I can include flute playing as an exercise. Even walking downhill is an option (can't find cycling downhill though).
 

---

Posted by Beethoven (# 114) on :
 
After several years of being unhappy about my steady expansion, I've finally found the self-discipline to do something about it. So far I've lost just over a stone, and have around another 1 1/2 stone to go... I've also joined MFP, after having it recommended by a friend, and find it very useful for keeping an eye on how much I'm eating (although I only track calories, not everything else).

After a quick start, I've slowed to losing around a pound a week, but with having started doing some exercise too, the inches are still disappearing even when the weight doesn't seem to be doing much. I'm thrilled to have gone down a whole clothes size so that I can put away some things that are now too loose, and can finaly get back into some favourites that have been a bit too snug for public viewing for a few years now...! It's a small excitement every morning at the moment, as I wonder what to wear and idly try something on, only to discover it's back in the 'wearables'

Another 4lb and I'll be halfway to my 'most I'll settle for' target. In a dream world there's another half stone to go beyond that, but I'll see how things are going when I get close. For now, I'm taking it a week at a time, and focussing on the small targets.
 

---

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

quote:

---

so that I can put away some things that are now too loose,

---

Are you sure that's the best thing to do? I would very strongly advise you to get rid of them, rather than put them away! My view would be that if you have larger-size clothes available, then in effect you have given yourself 'permission' to put that weight back on again one day.

There's nothing like having to go out and buy new clothes a size bigger for bringing you to the point where you think 'hold on, I should be doing something about this'. I can think of at least two occasions when that has triggered in me a determined effort to get thinner. Which is why what Wodders said about 'one size fits all' is actually not a good thing (a bit like elasticated waists!).

YMMV, of course, but that's my opinion.

Mrs. S, shooting her mouth off again
 

---

Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Hi daisy daisy and Beethoven - I'm on MFP too...would you like to be friends? The more support the better I think!
 

---

Posted by Freelance Monotheist (# 8990) on :
 
I've been on a diet free of cow's milk & cow's milk-based products, which the doctor recommended I follow to help my asthma, which has worked really well for that, but after the 2 month trial, I weighed myself and was shocked to find out I was not far under the 3-figure kilo weight, but weighed myself last week and have lost 3 kilos in a month, and that was with hardly any exercise regime!
Seeing as milk powder is in everything, it's cut out a lot of my favourite snacks (milk choc, crisps, cakes/biscuits), which I've replaced with fruit and other healthier alternatives. Now I've started swimming (going to get myself a semester/yearly pass when I get paid) and hope to go twice a week, plus have a fun swimming session with the little girl I look after on Weds who is moving to a house with an indoor pool! I'm also walking to work from the station as the buses are expensive and I only take about 10-15 minutes more to walk it than the bus, so it's healthier too!
If I keep up my weight-loss, by the Summer I'll be under my target weight and my mum's promised me a whole new wardrobe if I do!
 

---

Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by harmony hope:
Hi daisy daisy and Beethoven - I'm on MFP too...would you like to be friends? The more support the better I think!

---

Good idea - I've sent you a PM.
Any othe MFPers want or join us?
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
I'm Dormouse85 on MFP. Feel free to send me a friend request.

I'm doing quite well in the eating dept, staying under 1500 cals (or just over) a day. On MFP, when you log your foods for the day it says "if every day were like this, you'd weight --- in 5 weeks" When it told me a weight 2.5 kg less than now, I was disappointed, thinking "that's not much..."

Until I took my own advice, thought about it in butter terms, and realised that's 10 packs of butter. Oh, well. That's not bad then!!!
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
My friend had a baby yesterday, which weighted the same as I had lost in the last five weeks (7lb) this made me feel good about my weight loss!!
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Oh yes, Surfing Madness, what a great way to think of it!! That is brilliant
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Sorry, a double post (but with quite a lot of time between them!) I've just received my Hairy Dieters book from Amazon

Lots of interesting-but-cookable recipes.
 

---

Posted by Jenn. (# 5239) on :
 
I've just joined My Fitness Pal, mostly to support my husband although I'd like to lose a couple of pounds (or maintain current weight). I'm trying to get fit more than lose weight, so I'm enjoying the exercise log. I think I'll also eat less junk if I have to write it down. I have a bit of a problem when I start college - I'll be eating in at least 8 times a week, and I'm told the food is great but fattening. I'll probably have to guess at calories so it won't be accurate, but hopefully it'll help me to make better choices.
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Today, despite other problems, is officially a day.

I've lost 2 kg in a week! That's 8 packets of butter! Woo-hoo!

I know it's my body getting used to fewer calories, I know that it will slow down, but I have lost 2kg this week!!!
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dormouse:


My Hairy Bikers book should be arriving next week and I'm feeling ken!!!! Of course, that may not last.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dormouse:

but I have lost 2kg this week!!!

---

Yay,
Every achievement deserves to be celebrated.
 

---

Posted by Beethoven (# 114) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Are you sure that's the best thing to do? I would very strongly advise you to get rid of them, rather than put them away! My view would be that if you have larger-size clothes available, then in effect you have given yourself 'permission' to put that weight back on again one day.

---

I will get rid of them eventually - but I'd like them to be two sizes too big first! Not sure why - I have absolutely no intention of going back up to that size, even if Mr B reckons I will at some point...!

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
My friend had a baby yesterday, which weighted the same as I had lost in the last five weeks (7lb) this made me feel good about my weight loss!!

---

Ooh, I like this! I have a friend who's just had a 9lb-er, which means I've lost just over two of him since early July!

I'm feeling good today. I've made it to 1 1/2 stone total loss so far, which is about half-way
It also means that the trousers that I only got back into a couple of weeks ago are already feeling rather loose. Not too big yet - but on the way. And I'm following the NHS Couch to 5K plan, and completed Week 2 yesterday despite the pouring rain. This week looks set to be HARD, but I'll give it my best shot - and if it's too much, I'll just repeat Week 2...

I'll try and work out how to do friend things on MFP for those who've said!

{Perview psot would love to be my friend!}

[ 24. September 2012, 10:10: Message edited by: Beethoven ]
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Beethoven:

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Are you sure that's the best thing to do? I would very strongly advise you to get rid of them, rather than put them away! My view would be that if you have larger-size clothes available, then in effect you have given yourself 'permission' to put that weight back on again one day.

---

I will get rid of them eventually - but I'd like them to be two sizes too big first! Not sure why - I have absolutely no intention of going back up to that size, even if Mr B reckons I will at some point...!

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
My friend had a baby yesterday, which weighted the same as I had lost in the last five weeks (7lb) this made me feel good about my weight loss!!

---

Ooh, I like this! I have a friend who's just had a 9lb-er, which means I've lost just over two of him since early July!

I'm feeling good today. I've made it to 1 1/2 stone total loss so far, which is about half-way
It also means that the trousers that I only got back into a couple of weeks ago are already feeling rather loose. Not too big yet - but on the way. And I'm following the NHS Couch to 5K plan, and completed Week 2 yesterday despite the pouring rain. This week looks set to be HARD, but I'll give it my best shot - and if it's too much, I'll just repeat Week 2...

I'll try and work out how to do friend things on MFP for those who've said!

{Perview psot would love to be my friend!}

---

Aren't husbands just wonderful, supportive, encouraging human beings?

That is really terrific news, many congratulations to you and everyone else whose weight is moving in a downwards direction!

Mrs. S, beatifically counting packets of butter
 

---

Posted by Jenn. (# 5239) on :
 
Well done to all of you - sounds like MFP might be a good thing. I did ok saturday, too many snacks yesterday, loved the moment this morning when my calorie total for the day was negative Might have to exercise in the morning more often!
 

---

Posted by JoannaP (# 4493) on :
 
I have no idea what I did last week that was different from the previous three weeks but my weight has finally shifted from the plateau and in the right direction! I have lost 2lb
 

---

Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Hello again,

Sorry I've been lost in the wilderness... I have been logging as Eleanorjanethinner on MFP so any friend requests are welcome! I'm usually pretty active about commenting (nicely) when I'm there. I'm friends with Dormouse if you can't find me by searching.

Keep up the good work and I look forward to seeing more excellent results from you all!

Cheers,
Eleanorjane
 

---

Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Fab work everyone - love the support on here and on MFP!

Jenn - can I add you as a friend on MFP and anyone else would be more than welcome!
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by JoannaP:
I have no idea what I did last week that was different from the previous three weeks but my weight has finally shifted from the plateau and in the right direction! I have lost 2lb

---

Yay! for JoannaP's disappearing packets of butter!

I think that's one of the reasons people lose heart - they work hard at keeping to a regime, exercising and so on, and NOTHING HAPPENS! but if you just keep b*ggering on, as Winston Churchill put it, the weight does eventually begin to move. That and the 'cycling' element, where you lose some, put most of it back on, then lose it again with maybe a bit more - they all sap my motivation, I know.

Mrs. S, b*ggering on
 

---

Posted by Jenn. (# 5239) on :
 
harmony hope, feel free to add me (and anyone else!) I'm dentedloris on MFP
 

---

Posted by Beethoven (# 114) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Aren't husbands just wonderful, supportive, encouraging human beings?

---

I can't complain really - so far he's been great - and despite me saying that I wasn't putting him on a diet; anything he wanted to lose was entirely up to him, he's really got into it and has so far lost more than I have! (Tis a bit galling when he gets more comments and compliments, but hey-ho! I keep reminding myself I'm doing this for me, not for other people's opinions...) And he didn't even snigger when I told him I was starting running!

I'm wearing another new-old outfit today! It's amazing how good this feels.
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Anyone got any ideas for non chocolate/ biscuit based snacks/ motivation for when I'm studying.
 

---

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
I munch on raw carrots! Yummy!

[ 25. September 2012, 14:10: Message edited by: Welease Woderwick ]
 

---

Posted by Mrs Shrew (# 8635) on :
 
Like Welease Woderick, I like raw carrots.

Sweet peppers in sticks, or cucumber, or apple pieces.

Cherry tomatoes are also tasty.

Slightly less low calorie are raisins/sultanas and dried apricots.

I also like popcorn (if you pop it yourself, in the microwave for preference) then you don't need to add any oil or butter. While it is still hot then it is yummy without any salt or sugar or anything added.
 

---

Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
Anyone got any ideas for non chocolate/ biscuit based snacks/ motivation for when I'm studying.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Have you guys read
'Eating Less' by Gillian Riley?
A lot of what RoS says above echoes that book, and I found it useful. YMMV, but worth a look.

Mrs. S, weighing that muesli

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Have you guys read
'Eating Less' by Gillian Riley?
A lot of what RoS says above echoes that book, and I found it useful. YMMV, but worth a look.

Mrs. S, weighing that muesli

---

I took the book away with me to Germany and have returned inspired - it teaches you how to eat less - yes really! I found myself able to resist all sorts of gorgeous Kuchen.

I will keep dipping in to it to keep an track. One thing recommended is to only weigh yourself once or twice a year. Hmmmm that will be difficult!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
Anyone got any ideas for non chocolate/ biscuit based snacks/ motivation for when I'm studying.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
Anyone got any ideas for non chocolate/ biscuit based snacks/ motivation for when I'm studying.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Doublethink:
Have you considered sex instead of snacks - with or without the involvement of another person - very motivating & burns calories.

---

Hehe - I agree, but I have to say that instead of smoking (which I don't) I always fancy a huge bar of chilli chocolate!
 

---

Posted by Jack the Lass (# 3415) on :
 
Hmmm, good news and bad news here. The good news is that since reaching my heaviest point ever at the start of this year, I have shed 9lbs and in the last month have joined the gym and been better at getting close to my MFP limits (most days anyway ).

However, the bad news - today I had my blood pressure rechecked after a high reading a couple of weeks ago, and it is still high (I'm going to have to have some more investigations, bloods and 24hr monitoring etc, sigh). I don't know if the blubber I'm carrying around is causing it, but it's certainly not helping, and so I'm going to have to get really serious about shifting the weight and doing more exercise and eating more healthily. Which is probably the wake-up call I need, but I am a bit fed up today
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Jack, did you see the Hairy Dieters? It is inspiring on the blood pressure front, because they both got their blood pressure back to where it should be.

Well done for how well you are doing so well, keep going you can get there.
 

---

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Doublethink:

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
Anyone got any ideas for non chocolate/ biscuit based snacks/ motivation for when I'm studying.

---

Have you considered sex instead of snacks - with or without the involvement of another person - very motivating & burns calories.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
Jack, did you see the Hairy Dieters? It is inspiring on the blood pressure front, because they both got their blood pressure back to where it should be.

Well done for how well you are doing so well, keep going you can get there.

---

Thanks. I'll see if I can find any of the recipes online, as I really don't think I can justify buying another cookbook when we don't use most of the millions we already have!

Actually it occurred to me that my BP has only been high the last couple of times it was measured; in July it was fine despite me being quite unwell. And lo and behold I realised that in August I started some medication (luckily only for a brief time period, not full-time) and checked the side effects, and it turns out that increased BP is one of them. The course is due to end at the start of next week so I think I will arrange for another reading in a couple of weeks and hopefully that will sort it out.

Though I will still work on shifting the blubber as well
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Like I said on MFP, the Hairy Dieters are great for carnivores, but virtually useless if you are a vegetarian. Practically every recipe has meat/fish in some form or other. Having said that, I am using my book almost every day and really enjoying the recipes.
If anyone is interested, I blog about my food, link to recipes, show my menu plans and other such stuff on my blog, Fat Dormouse Getting Thinner. That is Blog 2 on the links in my signature. Go on! Pop over and comment! You know you want to.

[ 30. September 2012, 11:43: Message edited by: Dormouse ]
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Comet, How's the "cleanse" going?
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
My career as a glamour model is over before it even began

Thrilled to be able to tell y'all that I decluttered two bras from my pudgiest days - whisper it - 38DD! I was horrified to be measured at that, so I confided in The Intrepid Miss S, who tried to console me with the prospect of a new career.

Probably still wearing the same size *sigh* but from manufacturers stingier with the lace and elastic ...

Mrs. S, smug
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Lost another (nearly) 500g. That means I've lost (almost) 2.5 kg in two weeks. That's fine for me!
 

---

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
Comet, How's the "cleanse" going?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by comet:

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
Comet, How's the "cleanse" going?

---

mostly good except for an epic sugar breakdown two days ago. I wonder if rehab would take sugar junkies?

---

If they did I'm sure they would have plenty of takers!
 

---

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
one thing I've learned over the last few months (and is helping... ish... right now) is that the more of "quota" you give yourself for good food, the less space you have for crappy food, but also it's a psychological boost.

here's the deal - I've been trying to stick with the Dr. Terry Wahls protocol (google. there's a good TEDX talk on youtube) for treating autoimmune disorders through diet. some of it I can't hack - for instance, I detest seaweed, so I take kelp pills. I also hate liver. I don't take extra vitamin A, I just take other supplements and forgive myself. The thing is, while she says to stick to a strict paleo diet, which eliminates many things, she goes on to recommend 9 whopping cups of 3 different kind of produce as well as lots of clean meat, fish, and the organ meats and seaweed (blech).

again, it's a psychological thing. Instead of focusing on all those foods I CAN'T eat (and therefore being tempted by the forbidden fruit) I'm focusing on getting 3 cups of greens, 3 cups of sulphurous veg, and 3 cups of dark colored fruits and veg, as well as a buttload of protein and good fats. when I meet those quotas at the end of the day, I get to feel all positive and pat myself on the back. and really, if I do meet all of those requirements, by default I don't fill up on junk because there's just no room.

(think about it. 9 cups. and that's just the veggies. it takes work.)

I give myself other points of leeway - the "oily fish" requirement should be easy - salmon is po'folk food here, and I have enough in my freezer to probably eat it straight for a month. but I get sick of it. so I have it maybe weekly (okay, every other week...?) and take daily fish oil pills instead.

and for the record - my 3 cups of greens most days is a giant smoothie with 3 cups of fresh spinach, 1-2 cups blueberries (meets the color requirement) and things like fresh ginger and macha for flavor. no yogurt or banana to thicken it - I'm over that need anymore. The others are a bit harder, and I often end up eating an obscene amount of broccoli or cauliflower for dinner to catch myself up on the sulphurs.

Anyway, thought I'd share this strategy with you. it's no magic pill but it helps me mentally.
 

---

Posted by PeteC (# 10422) on :
 
I love cauliflower and broccoli. I am also quite fond of salmon, and do eat oily fishes because it sure beats taking supplements. Not keen on smoothies and such. Eat lots of salad greens with no disgusting lettuce, but with cooked cold lentils and an oil dressing I make myself. No added sugar or salt. It is really important (and difficult) for me to keep my weight down living a sedentary lifestyle.
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
I know what you mean Comet, my flatmate has introduced me to the world of slimming world, as there are loads of fab recipes, we get excited about food that is good for us, that there really isn't much room for the crap that we would usually eat.
 

---

Posted by Freelance Monotheist (# 8990) on :
 
On the fruit and veg front, I try and get more than 5-a-day, and I probably have about 7-a-day on average! I've discovered nectarines, spinach leaves, mango and pineapple pieces and loads more!
I'm not sure how much weight I've lost this month, but I was able to get into trousers 2 sizes smaller than I was wearing a month ago. They have an elasticated waist, but it means I'm going towards the smaller sizes in the plus-size clothing range I buy!
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Tried on my favourite long winter skirt, it now fits on top of my jeans!
My friend is excited because she has also lost weight,(she started off bigger than me) so it is now the right size for her.
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Freelance Monotheist:
I've discovered nectarines, spinach leaves, mango and pineapple pieces and loads more!

---

Spinach leaves are great as a 'bed' for any kind of saucy meal.



I have lost another 3lb, which makes my total half a stone. Slow, but in the right direction.



I am finding the book 'Eating Less' by Gillian Riley a real help in changing my thoughts about food.

(Thanks for the recommendation Mrs S)
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Aren't we all doing very well. I am only weighing myself once a week, but I'm itching to climb aboard again to see if I've lost any more!

Tonight will be a bit tricky. It's our (used to be) weekly girly get together which involves a bottle of wine and nibbles. I'm making a rule for myself that I must have a cup of fruit tea BEFORE I have any wine. And if I want a 2nd glass of wine I must have a 2nd cup of fruit tea first! And I'm going to dust off (and give a good wash to) our popcorn maker and make some popcorn as a snack - a whizz of salt and a grind of blackpepper, but no oil or butter. Let's see how it goes.
 

---

Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 
I'm already really missing the longer daylight hours because now by the time I finish work it's just about too dark to work on the allotment, which was earning me extra calories. I absolutely detest the gym and swimming, but am just about to dig out my old
XBX book and charts - I've been doing them on & off (mostly the latter) since I was a teen, and it's a great way to exercise while dinner is cooking.
 

---

Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 
Another 2lbs down
 

---

Posted by Horatio Harumph (# 10855) on :
 
Hey
I'm delving into this thread, and will try and skim read through the last 4 pages ...
was just looking at the topics of discussion and saw this. Love the thread name
I was at a conference recently, and was doing the 'being nosey' thing during the worship, and having a look round. Right behind me stood a very large guy, with a t-shirt with 'fat people are harder to kidnap'. I did LOL. In the middle of the meeting.

Anyway, its great to see this thread ... and well done everyone who is attempting to lose weight.

Its so damn hard isnt it!

I joined Slimming World last year, and ended up a stone heavier by the time I quit.

I'm now back on it, and trying to balance being hungry all the time because of steroids with losing much needed to lose weight.

So far, since the beginning of July, I have lost 10 pounds back on Slimming World.

I have about 8 stone to lose tho!

The last couple of weeks have been tough, gaining 1 and a 1/2 pounds so I'm desperate to get back on track.

So, thats me, I look forwards to sharing some of this journey with you guys

HH xx

(edited for spelling)

[ 07. October 2012, 13:51: Message edited by: Horatio Harumph ]
 

---

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by comet:

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
Comet, How's the "cleanse" going?

---

mostly good except for an epic sugar breakdown two days ago. I wonder if rehab would take sugar junkies?

---

late to check in. didn't work due to the sugar meltdown that just continued and even got worse. I wish I could figure out whatever fix there is for the sugar binging.

trying to start "clean" today. the reality is, getting the rest out of my system is fairly easy. cutting the sweets is so huge I'm overwhelmed. trying to take it one day at a time right now (12 step program for chocolate!)

wish me luck, it's a mess. I'm pretty sure I GAINED weight over the last week.
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Hard luck, Comet. Try to be kind to yourself - beating yourself up over it probably won't help...but what do I know? Maybe you're the kind of person who responds well to a tough talking to from yourself. I'm not. Hugs, if hugs are required. Beatings with a huge stick, if beatings are required!!

But can I whisper (with a grin) I've lost another 500g (1lb) which means I've reached my self imposed target of losing 3kg in five weeks a week early (well, give or take 100g) I'm happy.
 

---

Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 
Wonderful country Portugal, but the standard food portion measure seems to be the Cartload, and the standard brandy measure the Bucketful. I am only surprised that I didn't gain more than 3lbs. However, that was on a base that had been slipping upwards, so I need to get a grip.
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Checking in again. Now at my heaviest ever. Joined Weight Watchers this morning...things can only get better from here on in, right?
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
Checking in again. Now at my heaviest ever. Joined Weight Watchers this morning...things can only get better from here on in, right?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:

Had a good week this week, and lost 3lb, so feeling motivated to keep going.

---

thats brill, well done
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Well, yesterday was Day One...and I managed to keep on target. But tonight is our Harvest Supper, and I have got to attend seeing as how I'm the Vicar. I'm planning to take a big green salad, some tomatoes and cucumber with me, and use them to fill out the jacket potato and cold meat that will be served. Haven't thought how to manage the pudding...
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
I know what you mean St Everild it's ok when you can plan out at home what you are having, but not so easy for going out. Try to think about what you are having over the week as a whole, then you can balance pudding out against less treats as other points in the week. Also I've got a lot better about saying no to "treats" unless I really like them, and not just coz they're there.
 

---

Posted by Curiosity killed ... (# 11770) on :
 
You could say that they are all so wonderful and you don't want to offend anyone, so please can you just have a teaspoon, and I mean a teaspoon, of all of them to try? And hopefully end up with a small portion and no-one offended.
 

---

Posted by RuthW (# 13) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
Well, yesterday was Day One...and I managed to keep on target. But tonight is our Harvest Supper, and I have got to attend seeing as how I'm the Vicar. I'm planning to take a big green salad, some tomatoes and cucumber with me, and use them to fill out the jacket potato and cold meat that will be served. Haven't thought how to manage the pudding...

---

Will there be just one on offer or is this a potluck where lots of people will have brought things?

If there is just one, if it's something you really enjoy and you have points for it, have a small portion -- three bites are enough to get the enjoyment, seriously! If there are multiple choices and someone is liable to be offended if you don't choose theirs, have none of them, and if someone inquires, just say you're trying to lose weight. Do it with a smile and then change the subject.

And good luck with Weight Watchers! I lost a LOT of weight with them. As long you as you stick with the plan, don't try to fudge it, and get right back on when you do fall off, it really works.
 

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Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 
I went back to Tai Chi this morning, so was able to virtuously clock 90 minutes of continuous movement on my tracking app. Calorie spend pretty well cancelled by lunch though.
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
After a week's holiday on Menorca, doing a LOT of walking over rough ground with a high proportion of up and down - I have still managed to regain 2 lbs that took so much work to lose *sigh*. And before you kindly tell me that muscle weighs more than fat, I can feel it's gone back on round my middle

I think it goes to show how finely balanced things are - a bit more bread, a bit more in the way of beer or other fizzy drinks, and the scales start to swing the other way. A salutary lesson! but it was worth it for the sunshine and the scenery ...

The Rueful Mrs S, no more bread and jam for you!
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
The Harvest Supper was guesstimate for the first course, really. Plates were pre-prepared with a slice of ham, half a mini pork pie and three halves of an egg, hard-boiled. There was also a baked potato, I didn't have butter on the potato, and I took a mixed salad of tomatoes and cucumber to fill me up. There was a fresh fruit salad done in orange juice, and I had that with not much juice and no cream for pud.

Today has been another difficult day - a working lunch and a very nice soup, the recipe for which which I have had to look up when I got home and work out an approximate points value.

Tonight we are having Balsamic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes.

I really hope this works...I guess it is just a case of getting used to it, really, and I was very familiar with the "old" Weight Watchers Points system. My meeting isn't until Monday, so we shall see then. And I do need to take more exercise...
 

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Posted by Horatio Harumph (# 10855) on :
 
Slimming World is now launching in the States, so if anyone is interested the link is :
http://www.slimmingworldusa.com/

They have a joining offer on at the moment.

I don't know if anyone would be interested, but its always worth knowing whats out there, so if ever want to tell friends etc.

I joined SW because a friend told me about it. And it seems to work for me, so far. Ive gained some pounds the last few weeks because I have not followed the plan. When I do, I seem to lose weight.

The SW way seems to be by 'optimising' the food groups. So you can eat no end of stuff, so long as its the right combinations.

Anyway, hope no one is offended by me posting the link, but thought it worth mentioning its now in the USA

Hope your all having amazing weeks.

I weighed in on Thursday and have gained again, third week in a row, but I was expecting it. Back on track today tho and hoping for a 3lb loss this week, but time will tell!

HH xx
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Well, I have worked out why I want to loose the weight I gained after I lost it all before...being a bit of a hoarder I still have a wardrobe full of classic clothes which I'd love to be able to wear again, which I felt good wearing and which were of good quality.

I went out today in a pair of nice trousers and a pretty sweater, and felt really good. Now I'm home I have changed back into my default wear of fleece (because I'm cold) and jeans (because they are resistant to cats claws).

Weigh in on Monday...I expect I'll find it hard because I am of a certain age...but it will come off, of that I am determined.

Now, what shall I plan to wear for Christmas?
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
4lbs off...
 

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Posted by Horatio Harumph (# 10855) on :
 
wahoo, well done! thats brill.

are you following a plan as such?
 

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Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
4lbs off...

---

 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Aw, thanks!

I have rejoined Weight Watchers.
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Just over 2 years in, and 30kg off.
Onward and downward!
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Another 12 ounces

I know it doesn't sound much, but as long as it's in the right direction that's all that matters. After all it took over 60 years to get here and while I haven't got 60 years to get down to where I would like to be, I do have a year to get right for Miss S's wedding . Those photos are going to be around for a long time, I hope

As well, it is good that I have managed to get rid of the additional couple of pounds I put back on while on holiday!

So ... onwards and downwards as someone else said!

Mrs. S, counting those packets of butter
 

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



I have lost another pound - so onwards and downwards it is!

Every time I feel the 'addictive desire' for sugary and/or fatty foods I read a few pages of the Eating less book.
 

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Posted by Jenn. (# 5239) on :
 
I've lost 4 lbs but when I went to buy new trousers today I have gone UP a dress size. I'm stupidly upset about this. Maybe I have just not bought trousers for a couple of years, but this is depressing. Back on the exercise bike tonight.
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Jenn.:
I've lost 4 lbs but when I went to buy new trousers today I have gone UP a dress size. I'm stupidly upset about this. Maybe I have just not bought trousers for a couple of years, but this is depressing. Back on the exercise bike tonight.

---

Don't let that put you off, dress sizes vary from shop to shop and even in good ol' M&S are definitely not an adequate benchmark. You can try on 3 pairs of the same trousers in the same size, one will be too big, one too small, the third will fit perfectly. (been there, done that, got the trousers in 3 different sizes to show for it)

You have lost 4 lbs or 8 packets of butter - think of trying to pack those into your trousers with you and it may help!

That's one of the hard parts of trying to get thinner - not only must you NOT celebrate losing weight by eating something fattening, if you put weight on or just plan feel fat you must think, well, tomorrow is a whole new day and I can start again. Come to think of it that's not unlike Christianity ...

Mrs. S, awed at her own perceptiveness
 

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Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Just had my Gym induction, and first gym session. It went ok. Now to keep up the enthusiasm for going, and see if I can still wall in the morning!
 

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Posted by Freelance Monotheist (# 8990) on :
 
I've just had my monthly weigh-in and have only lost 500 grammes or so, which I'm very disappointed with! I'm sure some of it's muscle, and I've definitely lost inches as even my new trousers are getting loose, but they do have an elastic waist so maybe I've just stretched them putting them on and taking them off...
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
500g is GREAT Freelance Monotheist. Really!!! That's TWO whole packets of butter that are no longer slathered over your hips, or clogging up your arteries. That's a lot of butter. And it's nearly half a bag of sugar, and those things are heavy. You're no longer carrying that weight.

I bet if you carried half a bag of flour round with you all day, you'd soon notice that it was, if nothing else, uncomfortable. You've just shed that half bag of sugar. Me, I'm celebrating every 500g I lose because it's 500g nearer to my target. Yes, I'd rather it was a kilo, but it's half a kilo - and that's not bad!
 

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Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Mrs. S, awed at her own perceptiveness

---

I love your little end-notes, Mrs S.

I recently read "Fat is a Feminist Issue" (yes, I know it's an oldie, I'm usually late to the party on these things ) and had several lightbulb moments about why I'm overweight. Unfortunately they haven't stopped me stuffing biscuits and chocolate.

Nen - wishing she could emulate Mrs S's posting style and also lose 3 stone.
 

---

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

quote:

---

I love your little end-notes, Mrs S.

---

Why thank you, Nenya! I have to confess I stole the idea from Cattyish, I used to love those.

I love this thread, as I think it offers wonderful support to everyone trying to lose weight, or more accurately control their eating. I remember reading about Flausa, and Rose of Sharon, and thinking 'well, they did it, why can't I?'.

My lightbulb moment for today is also related to 'Fat is a feminist issue'. Because this is a virtual support network, we aren't in competition. We can all celebrate Freelance Monotheist's 500 grammes, or Jenn's 4 lbs, because we aren't looking at each other and so aren't trying to hold each other back. You know how it is - 'if you won't make me thin, Lord, at least make my friends fatter than me'?

Now we just have to learn not to sabotage our own successes!

Mrs. S, now completely flummoxed for suitable tail-piece!
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Freelance Monotheist:
I've just had my monthly weigh-in and have only lost 500 grammes or so, which I'm very disappointed with! I'm sure some of it's muscle, and I've definitely lost inches as even my new trousers are getting loose, but they do have an elastic waist so maybe I've just stretched them putting them on and taking them off...

---

500g OFF is a thing to celebrate, Freelance Monotheist! However small a weight may seem, if its come off it is a good thing. It all adds up.
 

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Posted by Freelance Monotheist (# 8990) on :
 
It's actually 800 g, as I weighed XX.3 kg last month, and now it's XX(-1).5, which makes me feel slightly better about myself! I also tried on a couple of pairs of jeans I haven't fitted into in ages, and I could do them both up, but, alas, not move/sit down/breathe in them comfortably, but by next month I think I will!
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
just a little thing, but I found out tonight that my 17 year old son now weighs more than me for the first time ever. it's silly but that makes me feel great. especially since he's growing into one big muscular fella.
 

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Posted by Jenn. (# 5239) on :
 
Comet - that's fab!

Freelance Monotheist - I love the feeling when I can fit into a pair of jeans Keep going!

The combination of a really crappy few days and the appearance of a tuck shop in the room I chill in has been pretty bad. Today is a new day (and I have no small change so I can't buy stuff). So want to binge of sugar though
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Damn that wine for tasting so good! And those nibbly bits! And why did I then have cheese on toast when I got home. D'oh! Hits head in frustration.
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Just checking in to say, keep going people we can do this. (This is as much to myself as others.) It's good to know there are other people who are doing this journey to.
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
I do NOT recommend this but I have just had a few days of tummy bug - and I've lost 3 kilos!! It is the only bonus from a fairly uncomfortable time but I hope I can avoid putting it all back on immediately.

eta: now I'm feeling better, and actually had a bowl of porage this morning, I am trolling the internet for recipes!

[ 19. October 2012, 09:27: Message edited by: Welease Woderwick ]
 

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Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 
Another bag of sugar lost, so 6 bags lost so far. Not sure where it's going from because although some clothes are looser, most are just as tight. Maybe it's going from my teeth or earlobes.
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Seriously, DaisyDaisy, it could be going from around your heart, your liver and your other internal organs. Which may not be obvious to look at, but which MUST be good for you.
 

---

Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 
Ah yes - thanks Dormouse - I hadn't thought of that.
 

---

Posted by Mr Curly (# 5518) on :
 
5kg down, 10 to go.

Progress, at last.

mr curly
 

---

Posted by Flausa (# 3466) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
I love this thread, as I think it offers wonderful support to everyone trying to lose weight, or more accurately control their eating. I remember reading about Flausa, and Rose of Sharon, and thinking 'well, they did it, why can't I?'.

---

Yay! You can do it! I found online support (through this thread and through MFP) to be absolutely vital to my weight loss. I needed to know that it could be done and that I wasn't trying to do it alone. I'm really grateful to all the people who helped me along the way (and a fabulous group of women who are now helping me maintain the weight loss). I still dip into this thread from time to time to silently cheer for all of you.

It can be difficult when you've spent a lifetime of allowing food to control to train yourself to control the food. I learned a great deal over the last couple of years about nutrition/calories/exercise/fitness, but I think some of the most important things I learned were about my actual attitudes and relationship with food. I'm still not completely in the "food is only fuel" camp, but I do now recognize that "food does not equal love" (if that makes any sense).

Anywho, just want to say, "Go Team!"
 

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Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
Well done to everyone with the successes. And you're right, Mrs S - we are not in competition with weights and figures.

I know I'm not in a great place with food at the moment and am comfort eating like mad... that's just an acknowledgement of where I am and it's not to say I don't aspire to lose some weight again when my head can get round it.

Nen - reaching for another caramel shortbread.
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Mr D is a big man, but he is fit. He goes for long cycle rides maybe once or twice a week, when he will burn over 2500 calories...but he is looking porky (so am I, I know - but I'm trying to do something about it!) He has a fairly physical job - he works in a supermarket, standing at the till, restocking shelves etc - but when he's not cycling or working he is slumped in front of the TV.

He eats my low cal dinners that I cook, but lunch is more "free for all" - that is we have bread, toppings, soup, and each makes their own sandwich. He'll also supplement this with a yoghurt/a couple of biscuits/ a banana (or all three!)

I'm worried that, even though he is burning off the cals when he rides, other days maybe he's not. Today I watched what he prepared for lunch and logged it into MFP. It came out as about 1,200 calories - just for lunch!!!!!!!! I told him this - I started by saying I was concerned, but he just got really cranky and said he objected to being told what he could and couldn't eat and could I please mind my own business, especially as he was actually losing weight (I have to say I'm not convinced by that, but there you go)

Do you think I did the right thing? Is there anything else I could do? I don't stock many biscuits and stuff, and what I do is low calorie - but that just means he eats more of them! Or do I just hope that what I said has planted a seed and keep on feeding him Hairy Dieters recipes for dinner?
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dormouse:
Today I watched what he prepared for lunch and logged it into MFP. It came out as about 1,200 calories - just for lunch!!!!!!!! I told him this - I started by saying I was concerned, but he just got really cranky and said he objected to being told what he could and couldn't eat and could I please mind my own business,

---

Been in that man's shoes - many times over the years, and there's nothing more likely to send me to the biscuit barrel, sweet shop or burger bar than someone (however caring) commenting on what I am eating.
If he's anything like me, step back!
When he sees that you are eating more healthily and benefiting from it, and when he decides that he needs to change to a more healthy diet, then you can advise - when he asks.
 

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Posted by Lamb Chopped (# 5528) on :
 
That's the hardest thing in the world to do, but I think it's right. I'm another one who has an absolute meltdown (complete with trip to cookie jar) when I perceive that someone else is judging my eating habits (caring and correct though they may be!).

It's not right, but it's human.

What you might possibly try (if you can do it sincerely) is to keep on with your own personal self-care, and ask his advice (sincerely!) in ways of improving. Perhaps with regards to exercise, since he seems to be good at that. Hopefully, over a long period of time, that could move the situation from "you vs. me" to "the two of us together as a team."

But when in doubt, best not to speak. (How hard is that? )
 

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Posted by Jenn. (# 5239) on :
 
I have had a bad week. I have been comfort eating. I knew I would have put on weight. But 6lbs???!!!!!!! I need more sweets now
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
No weight loss this week...no gain either. But I have been out to dinner twice. I thought I had been careful, but obviously not.
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
*sigh* 2 lbs back on when I thought I had shifted them *sigh* but then again, two large cooked breakfasts over the weekend probably did the damage. This even though we then had no lunch, and walked and geocached ALL day.

Sad to say I don't find exercise helps with weight loss. It's good in and of itself and we should all do it, but exercise bulimia is not the answer.

quote:

---

but he just got really cranky and said he objected to being told what he could and couldn't eat and could I please mind my own business, especially as he was actually losing weight

---

Two things here, Dormouse. I don't think men (by which of course I mean Mr. S) have any concept of the calorific value of food, or of how many calories they need to not eat (???) to lose a pound. That was where the first Hairy Dieters programme was so good, because of course you believe what someone on the telly tells you! And also it helped with the second point (below), because we could all see that these men needed to lose weight and by extension SO DID WE.

The second point I think - how can we help convince someone they really do need to eat less/ stop smoking/ give up alcohol - is worthy of its own thread but I need more time to grapple with phraseology before I do that. It's SO HARD - for instance, the Dowager Mrs. S wouldn't go to the doctor for ages as she knew that he'd tell her she should stop smoking. Naturally he had to say that, but she didn't want to hear it, and until she wanted to hear it - until she'd made her own mind up that she needed to stop - nothing anyone else could say would make any difference, and indeed might make it worse as the 'sod it' factor comes into play. We get all defiant, which is why losing weight or stopping any other addiction can only be done for our own sake, not for anyone else's. We get stroppy with them and we sneak a chocolate bar or a fag or a drink. But here's the killer - when we cheat we are only cheating ourselves.

I really wish I knew what the answer to that particular conundrum might be (I could make a fortune )

Anyhoo, here's today's good news story. I met a former manager, who looked like a new woman - she had lost four-and-a-half stone over the year since I'd seen her. She looked fantastic and I told her so. So, again, if J. can do it, so can we all
(here endeth the lesson )

Mrs. S, evangelist of encouragement
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:

Mrs. S, evangelist of encouragement

---

Thank you Mrs. S, I needed some encouragement today!

I think exercise helps in the sense that it makes you feel good and energised - so more likely to 'keep with it' food wise. Half term here, so I won't be swimming. but I'm visiting my Mum later, so I'll take my wellies to the farm and go for a brisk walk.


Onwards and downwards!
 

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Posted by Caissa (# 16710) on :
 
I have lost 9 lbs twice this year. I'm really hoping I don't have to lose it a third time. My goal at the start of the year was to lose 15 lbs. The next 10 weeks may be a tough time in which to try to shed those last few pounds.
 

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Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 
Plus and minus day. On the plus side, I shed the last of the holiday gain and am within a lb of my lowest of the last year or so. On the minus, the scales in the hypertension clinic showed an increase for the same period.

I'm inclined to trust my own scales - certainly the differential they show. But now I wish there was a way of checking the calibration. But only if it would show they were a) accurate or b) overweighing.

I think I will start entering measurements as well as weight in MFP, as confirmatory data.
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Well, back to where we were a week ago, so no harm done really *phew*.

A combination of busy lunchtimes, dank weather and a twisted foot from two weeks ago has really put the kibosh on my lunchtime walks, which is bad news There's no Pilates this week or next (half-term). And between going wedding-dress shopping with Miss S. tomorrow (YAY!), and being committed to being in church at least twice on Sunday, there isn't much leeway there either to go for a long walk. I shall have to lock myself in the bathroom and do some tai chi!

Mrs. S, bum gradually welding itself to the chair
 

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Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 
A whole stone lost now so just another 2 to go to my target. I'm a bit apprehensive about a curry tonight to celebrate a friend's birthday, but will stick to tandoori & a naan, hoping I can bring half of it home with me. Mind you, if I follow this diet plan rule 3 should cover me.
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
daisydaisy, I love that diet!
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
This week is a bit disastrous - Wednesday was my birthday, so Mr D insisted I drank most of the half bottle of champagne that he'd bought, and he fed me Vienetta for pudding. (Note: I didn't argue!)

On Thursday we had a Thermomix demonstration chez Dormouse, making fish in a creamy sauce and Iles Flottante, which were then eaten with a bottle and a half of wine.

And there's a joint birthday party for me and a friend on Saturday with all my favourite nibbly foodie things. And wine. I shall try to do some dancing but it will need to be long and energetic to get rid of that lot! Still, next week is another week!
 

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Posted by justlooking (# 12079) on :
 
I've been following this fasting two days a week regime ever since the TV programme about the benefits of fasting. I've lost 3 inches from my waist and 2 inches from bust and hips. I don't know what I've lost in weight since I don't have any scales but I'm estimating at least a stone.

The biggest difference is the reduction of arthritic pain and stiffness and I'm sure this isn't accounted for only by weight loss. I felt it after just two weeks. I still carry a fold-up walking stick in my bag but haven't used it since then. My muscle tone has improved and this isn't due to any increased exercise. From what I've read arthritis is one of the conditions improved by regular fasting. I don't know how it works but apparently fasting improves circulation and strengthens muscles.

Compared to other diets I've tried this is easy. It's a regime for life but it doesn't feel restrictive at all. I fast two days eat what I like on two days and keep to about 1500 calories for 3 days. I can recommend it.
 

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Posted by Jack the Lass (# 3415) on :
 
TME and I are doing the fasting thing too - I can't speak for him but I must admit I'm not very good at sticking to 500 calories on the two fast days (I reckon I'm eating more like 900-1000 cals those days) but I am generally trying hard to just eat one meal on fast days, usually lunch, and combined with the gym 2-3 times a week I am finding I am pretty consistently losing around a lb a week. Today though I completely forgot that today was a fast day till TME came home and reminded me that we wouldn't actually be eating tea tonight - so I will probably skip breakfast tomorrow (which isn't a fast day) and have just the two meals then, and then one meal on Thursday.

The rest of the week I try to be healthy and keep to near my MFP daily goal of around 1600 calories, I don't always manage it but I am noticing a difference. My trousers keep falling down!

I can't say I feel tons better generally, but I do feel much better for having slightly less lard about my person.
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Seven weeks ago I added the 2:5 diet to the low-cal version of the Dash diet I've been following for the last 2+ years. My weight loss seems to have increased from about a kilo a fortnight (between plateaux) to a kilo a week. I can't say I've noticed any startling difference in my health - but then I hadn't noticed much difference when losing the first 25kilo.

I will be having a blood test in December and am hoping to see some difference in my bp, cholesterol and ESR results ( I started the 2:5 because I think I heard on the Horizon programme that it had a good effect on ESR, and mine has been high for years). Not sure how I will manage to continue on either regime if the results are not noticeable, as that was the point of making such dramatic changes.

I'm not sure that I'm doing the 2:5 right, though. I am spreading my 500cals over three meals, but reading a bit more about it on the 'net a number of sites say that it should be one meal a day - 24hour after your last. Not sure I could manage that, especially in the winter.

Winter is going to be difficult anyway, especially Christmas and the few weeks afterwards when the house is full of leftover goodies. Worrying about that already.
 

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Posted by Jack the Lass (# 3415) on :
 
I'd not heard the '24 hrs after your last meal' thing - I usually just eat lunch, as I think I can probably make it through the morning OK, but don't think it's fair to inflict hungry crabby grouchy me on my colleagues who didn't choose this diet. Plus I don't think I'd be at all productive at work by the afternoon as ALL I'd think about would be the next meal.

I really hope it does eventually have an impact on blood pressure, as mine is on the high side at the moment (have to have a 24hr monitor next week, ). Though I found when I lost weight before (not through this 2:5 thing) that my BP improved anyway, so even if it does improve this time I'm not sure I can credit the fasting.
 

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

quote:

---

I've lost 3 inches from my waist

---

That is terrific - I was overjoyed to discover that I was, at last, a Woman with a Waist!


And when we were on holiday, doing a lot of up-and-down walking in the sun *sigh* I really felt the benefit of having shed a stone and a half. Even the 10 lbs or so I have lost since June (yes, it's a slow old process) have made a recognisable difference and that is a real encouragement to me.

Can't face fasting - as JtL says, all I can think about then is my next meal - though I do notice I am eating less than I used to, without really thinking too hard about it.

Well done everyone

Mrs. S, 11 lbs to go and a year to lose it in!
 

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Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 
Congratulations to everyone who has lost visible inches. After my initial inch-loss from my waist and tummy, I haven't seen any more loss there despite seeing a difference on the scales (maybe not this week as a result of a lovely Indian meal last Friday). However, today I realised my shoes are wider than my feet need and I can wear rings again for the first time in ages, so I'm just looking in the wrong places.
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
Rings are about the best indicator with me, my fingers seem very sensitive to my weight.
 

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Posted by Lamb Chopped (# 5528) on :
 
Yes, why is it i lose weight from my fingers and my wrists and my feet and my back-- but not my stomach or my hips or my arms or my legs? If it were just more visible places... Mr Lamb reckons my butt is much smaller, but as its behind me I can' t exactly enjoy the new view.

Tho the one visible place I AM losing it is (you guessed it) the boobs.
 

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

Has no-one any progress to report?

Having decried the usefulness of exercise I think one of the reasons for my current plateau is that a combination of busy-ness and unsuitable weather have scuppered my usual 30 minute lunchtime walks recently

Come on peeps, I need help/encouragement/support here!

Mrs. S, wondering what else can be cut from the food plan...
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I haven't been on the scales recently, but I may brave them after swimming this morning - the scales there are posh ones which tell you weight, height, BMI, fat ratio and what you had for breakfast.
 

---

Posted by Jenn. (# 5239) on :
 
According to the docs I have lost 1 kg since september. Quite pleased with that. BMI is in normal range and I'm getting fitter. Unfortunately I have had to cancel my gym induction as I'm a bit poorly. Try again later
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Didn't get to WW last Monday as I was away visiting friends...the week before I had stayed the same, and last week I had 2 family funerals to attend, so it wasn't a good week for staying on track...this morning I really didn't want to go to WW and wasn't expecting much...but the scales say I have lost a further 4 lbs. Yay me!

I have lost the first 1/2 stone, my clothes are beginning to fit properly again and I feel really good! (And a bit smug...)

How is everyone else getting on?

St E - onward and downwards and shrinking.
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Yay to everyone!

St. E - it's so nice to fit back into clothes you'd regretfully packed away! (and isn't it just lovely to be able to think of having lost 'half a stone'?)

Mrs. S, celebrating everyone else's achievements, her own having plateau-ed
 

---

Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Yay to everyone!

St. E - it's so nice to fit back into clothes you'd regretfully packed away! (and isn't it just lovely to be able to think of having lost 'half a stone'?)

Mrs. S, celebrating everyone else's achievements, her own having plateau-ed

---

Yay, St. E! Impressive stuff.

Mrs. S - I'll walk in the rain if you will! I'm thinking about how to easily add more exercise to my daily routine and I'm thinking 20 min walking at lunch will help (plus let me see day light).
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Even though I have been away for a week, and been very bad about what I ate I have stayed the same. I think all the walking I did while away paid off.
 

---

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

quote:

---

Mrs. S - I'll walk in the rain if you will! I'm thinking about how to easily add more exercise to my daily routine and I'm thinking 20 min walking at lunch will help (plus let me see day light).

---

Fair enough, EJ. For all the long walks at the weekends, it seems I need to keep up the mid-week stuff too. To be fair, no rain here today and the sun is shining, so I'll be grabbing my trainers at lunchtime - and hooray! Pilates is back this evening.

Mrs. S, eager co-Pilate
 

---

Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
I haven't been on the scales as I know it won't be good news at present but I did buy some good new shoes today - comfortable enough to walk a distance in but smart enough to wear all day in the office. I'm making plans to walk more.

Nen - still comfort-eating, but optimistic.
 

---

Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Walking is all good - I find it the easiest thing to fit into my daily routine.

I'd love to get back into yoga/ pilates/ aerobics etc but I'm out most nights and I've been away for most of the last few weekends... just too much!

Anway, keep soldiering on, All!
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
Husband asked what I weighed and was when I told him. Apparently he had no idea I was that huge However, he is now actively encouraging me to lose weight, which can only be a good thing.
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
I'm happily watching the first episode of series 1 of Downton Abbey (having only started watching half way through series 2). This is my reward for having lost my first stone.
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
This is my reward for having lost my first stone.

---

Doesn't that feel GOOD?

I'm still wondering if I'll get into my dress for Saturday night's concert. To be fair, it's very old, and the last time I actually remember wearing it was in 2001, so I'll be very pleased if I can get the zip done up!

Mrs. S, still trudging across that plateau
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
At my weigh in yesterday, I was somewhat surprised to discover that I had lost another 2 lbs, making 10 lbs in total so far.

I shall have to miss my meeting next week...
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
At my weigh in yesterday, I was somewhat surprised to discover that I had lost another 2 lbs, making 10 lbs in total so far.

---

Marvellous - well done, it's a hard struggle, but worth it!



 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
At my weigh in yesterday, I was somewhat surprised to discover that I had lost another 2 lbs, making 10 lbs in total so far.

---

Marvellous - well done, it's a hard struggle, but worth it!

---

Another four packs of butter!

Mrs. S, back on the Pilates and tai chi
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Thank you for all your encouragement, it means a lot.
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
I'm so thrilled today - I am now into double figures from (at my heaviest) four figures. 9 stone 9 and three-quarter pounds!

Another milestone hit, another millstone (it feels like!) shed.

We can Do This! Think of Flausa and RoS and everyone else who has worked away so successfully at decluttering their bodies. I know it's hard and I think people underestimate/undersell how hard it is - if it were easy everyone could and would do it.

Mrs. S, full of gratitude for your encouragement
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Well done, Mrs S...I'm delighted for you!!
 

---

Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 
Meanwhile, I am getting a tad disillusioned with the MFP app. I record, as accurately as I can, what I eat and how much activity I do and it assures me that at this rate I will be practically invisible when I stand sideways in a matter of weeks.

Despite this, any actual weight loss could be measured in drachms.
 

---

Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Firenze:
....it assures me that at this rate I will be practically invisible when I stand sideways in a matter of weeks.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by daisydaisy:
I'm mildly amused by MFPs predictions - I'm waiting for the day that it shows me negative figures (mind you, I've a while before I might see that)

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:
Plateau-ing again, even on 5:2.
I'm on 1200 on the eating days, but am generally a few cals below that. MFP keeps saying my calorie intake is too low - maybe it's right?

---

Maybe - 1200 is very low. How about upping the breakfast a little to kick start your metabolism for the day?

I am still on the sloooooow downward course, but I'm determined that this is a permanent lifestlye, not a 'diet' - so it's bound to be slow, I think.

Keep on keeping on!


 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:
I am still on the sloooooow downward course, but I'm determined that this is a permanent lifestlye, not a 'diet' - so it's bound to be slow, I think.

Keep on keeping on!

---

This!

Mrs S, all this rain doing her No Good At All!
 

---

Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:
Plateau-ing again, even on 5:2.
I'm on 1200 on the eating days, but am generally a few cals below that. MFP keeps saying my calorie intake is too low - maybe it's right?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:
Maybe - 1200 is very low. How about upping the breakfast a little to kick start your metabolism for the day?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
...and downward I have continued. Another 1lb gone today and that takes me to my 5% target. Now to lose 10% of my starting weight!

My weigh in trousers are now too loose to be comfortable and are going in the ways to be consigned to the charity shop, and I have resurrected another pair from the back of e wardrobe which are a snug fit but not uncomfortably so.

Yay me!!

How is everyone else doing?

---

yay you indeed, St. E - that's fabulous!

I am just contemplating borrowing back Mr. S's braces to hold up a nice pair of trousers that are just too complicated to take in. I had them before for a pair that were 2 sizes too big - in fact, realising that that was the size I needed might have been the trigger to Doing Something About It. These are only one size too big, but have not been worn enough for me to say goodbye to them cheerfully yet.

Currently wearing an old pair of Miss S's abandoned ones, but they are GAP so no clear idea of what size they are! all I know is, they fit me now where they never would have done before. Yay to all of us!


Mrs. S, down another 12 ounces (what's that in grams - does it sound better? )
 

---

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
How does 340 grammes sound? It sounds good to me.

I am hoping [against hope?] that the excess I acquired in UK will just drop off without any effort now I am back home...

but...
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Another two pounds off - 11 pounds altogether.


 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Not lost this week, but not put on. That said I am losing motivation. I'm yet again feeling hungry, but know that I am not (had plenty to eat), but not anything bad for me, I just want comfort food, coz it's cold outside. Instead i'm here to moan!
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Stayed the same (again) but as I've lost almost 6 kg so far, (that's 12lb, give or take) I'm reasonably happy! However, the motivation is going, and I fear that at Christmas I may not care as much as I should what I'm eating. I will have to try to go out for walks...
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
I just want comfort food, coz it's cold outside.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dormouse:
Stayed the same (again) but as I've lost almost 6 kg so far, (that's 12lb, give or take) I'm reasonably happy!...

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dormouse:
Stayed the same (again) but as I've lost almost 6 kg so far, (that's 12lb, give or take) I'm reasonably happy! However, the motivation is going, and I fear that at Christmas I may not care as much as I should what I'm eating. I will have to try to go out for walks...

---

Dormouse, remember - it isn't what you eat between Christmas and New Year that's the problem - it's what you eat between New Year and Christmas! In other words, even if you put some on again, don't give up, just sigh and get back to it. You've done it once - you can do it again, and as Wodders said, that's jolly nearly a stone, well done.

More difficult here at the moment with Advent calendars and Christmas chocolates around, but the thing I have to do so as not to eat in the afternoons is drink 750 ml of water. I get back to my desk after my lunchtime walk - and that is a bad time for me, I start to think of all the goodies in the vending machines and coffee bars - and I think 'No, we don't do that sort of thing these days, we drink water' and it is amazingly (!) helpful.

Mrs. S, swigging from that bottle as if her life depended on it
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Yes - every 'avoiding overeating over Christmas' tip is gratefully received by me!

I don't want to undo the progress made so far.

My first stop is psychological.

NO excuses!!


 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:
Yes - every 'avoiding overeating over Christmas' tip is gratefully received by me!

I don't want to undo the progress made so far.

My first stop is psychological.

NO excuses!!

---

Was it St. Everild who mentioned 'snug' trousers? I find they are a great aid to appetite control! which is why elasticated waists are such a BAD idea.

I remember reading somewhere about using a piece of string cut to length, to go round someone's waist - but can't for the life of me remember what they used it for? Like a tight waistband to remind you not to overeat - cut-rate gastric band perhaps? Or was it when people had lost weight they got a new, shorter, piece of string (my that's motivational...)

But anyway - well-fitting trousers is my Helpful Hint of the Day


Mrs. S, firmly repressing thoughts of chocolate
 

---

Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
I'm afraid to weigh myself at the moment - I haven't been to the gym for nearly a month due to pressure of work.

However, I once managed to LOSE weight over Christmas by the following method:

1. Eat at least 3 pieces of fruit a day.
2. Have a snack of fruit mid-morning and mid-afternoon.
3. Restrict yourself to ONE Christmassy treat (small piece of cake, mince pie, couple of chocolates or similar) per day.
4. Only buy high-quality chocolate (2 very good chocolates are less fattening than a whole boxful of poorer quality and just as emotionally satisfying, IMNSHO)
5. Don't worry about calories on Christmas Day and Boxing Day; it's just two days out of the whole year. But remember that wine and beer are loaded with calories too; don't go overboard on the booze on any other days.

The fruit is the key - if you eat enough of it you will be too full to eat anything else. And provided you stay off the avocados and bananas you have to eat an awful lot of it before you've consumed the equivalent of a box of chocolates...

I found this plan very easy to stick to, but I don't usually drink much at Christmas (except for mulled wine - you know, the stuff with extra sugar) so more or less giving up drinking wasn't a big hardship for me.
 

---

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

quote:

---

(2 very good chocolates are less fattening than a whole boxful of poorer quality and just as emotionally satisfying, IMNSHO)

---

Seconded, Jane R!

I buy very expensive Hotel Chocolat goodies and we are allowed two chocolates each on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (Mr. S eats other cheaper stuff in between but I try not to). The days are non-transferable as well, so if you are out on Sunday night you don't get chocolate on Monday, frinstance.

I find routine helpful like that, but YMMV - I think it may be an age thing, too.

Mrs. S, eagerly contemplating Friday night
 

---

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
I'm back, chagrined, and one seriously chubby chick. The last few months have been CRAZY with a play and our annual auction- where my co-organizer is a professional chef and always kept our wrksessions in snacks. Lovely bastard. The last few days I've seen publicity photos of myself and holy crap my face looks like a beach ball!

I was going to do a Whole30 (google, linking is a hassle on my phone) but with Christmas coming, i'm calling it a Whole 17- through Cmas Eve.

And... *sigh* back to MFP to keep track. Dammit.
 

---

Posted by W Hyatt (# 14250) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:
Yes - every 'avoiding overeating over Christmas' tip is gratefully received by me!

---

I've come up with a bunch of rules for myself, but I find I'm only successful when I follow all of them:

Instead of telling myself "no," I tell myself "yes, but you have to wait an hour (or half an hour)."

Before I have something sweet, I have to have a drink of water (Mrs. S is right - it's amazingly helpful!). I also have to have something solidly nutritious (to keep my blood sugar from dropping too quickly after the sugar rush and just making me even more hungry).

I serve myself a small portion, even if I know I'm going to end up having more later (back to step #1). My particular weakness is soft drinks and when I open a new can, I will decide first how much I want and pour the rest of it down the drain before I start drinking it.

I remind myself that the first couple of bites / gulps taste the best - every extra bite tastes every so slightly less yummy.

I consume slowly and take the time to enjoy each bite / swallow as much as I can. I totally agree about the good chocolate vs. the poor chocolate!

I try to keep from ever getting really hungry and at the same time, try to eat only enough to keep me from getting hungry again for three hours or so.

When I know I'm going to be in a situation where I usually lose my self-control, I prepare by mentally rehearsing what I'm going to do (or not do) - I liken this to military preparedness.

Try hard to get as much sleep as you can - every rule is much easier to follow when you're well-rested!

I once managed to lose 10 pounds between Thanksgiving and Christmas one year with these rules, although I've not yet been successful in repeating that.

I hope something here helps, but I'm posting mainly as a way to recommit myself to following my own rules! (Thanks for listening. )
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:
Husband asked what I weighed and was when I told him. Apparently he had no idea I was that huge However, he is now actively encouraging me to lose weight, which can only be a good thing.

---

quote:

---

I hope something here helps, but I'm posting mainly as a way to recommit myself to following my own rules! (Thanks for listening. [Smile] )

---

That's what we're here for, WH! All hints and tips gracefully accepted because we all need all the help we can get - and we know it, too.

NEQ - are you tall? cos obviously that makes a lot of difference to how you are perceived. I've had to buy size 16 trousers - the black ones I gave away with much rejoicing - when I was 11 stone 6, at 5' 4" that's a BMI in trouble. I find a BMI is a good way of assessing your weight, less emotive (IMHO) that the actual figure in stone and pounds.

Anyway - whatever motivates you, I think? and at least you aren't trying to convince yourself that you are 'big-boned'!

(x-posted with Surfing Madness)

Mrs. S, Evangelist of Encouragement
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
I'm not tall, Mrs S; I'm 5ft 5in.

I've currently also got size 20 trousers; the size 18 were too tight around the bum, but I have to wear a belt with the size 20s because they're too big round the waist.

What motivates me?
1) the fear that it's only a matter of time before my health suffers. I'd feel really, really stupid if I sabotaged my life with an obesity-related condition.

2) I might have a longevity gene, and if I do I don't want to waste it.

3) My 75 year old father recently raced my 18 year old up one of those "spider-web" climbing frames. I'm embarrassed that Dad is fitter than I am.

4) I'd like to have more choice of clothes.
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
Oh, and, Mrs S, my mother always told me I was "big-boned"! So that pre-disposes me NOT to use that excuse! Also, Mum claims that all the women in our family are fat, so I'm bound to be fat, too. Thems the rules!
(The good genes are all on my Dad's side.)
 

---

Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:

Does anyone else find clothes sizing odd?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:
My sister-in-law and I wear the same size of clothes, but she's a lot lighter. We've taken it in turns to stand on the scales, so we both know each other's weight. She's more of an "apple" shape though and I'm more of a "pear." And my cousin and I are about the same weight, but she wears a size bigger.

I like long length and loose skirts, but long-sleeved T-shirt type tops.

---

You must be all muscle, then!

Mrs. S, looking on the bright side
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Can I do a little dance of showy of joy (even if you say no i will!)
This week for the first time ever i bought an item of clothes (fitted leggings) in Top Shop, I have never been a small enough size to do this before.
 

---

Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 

quote:

---

I find a BMI is a good way of assessing your weight, less emotive (IMHO) that the actual figure in stone and pounds.

---

quote:

---

Anyway - whatever motivates you, I think? and at least you aren't trying to convince yourself that you are 'big-boned'!

---

quote:

---

'Big bones' may be used as an excuse for being fat, but some people really do have big bones. There's no need to sneer at us; some of us are fat as well and we're not all in denial.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Welease Woderwick:
Living in an upside down sort of world where tailored clothes are generally cheaper than ready to wear means that sizing as a means of whatever can be difficult - and most of my trousers have a drawstring waist.

...but they are all comfortable.

---

but Wodders - have you got a horned helmet???

Mrs. S, rather hoping you can say 'yes' to that!
 

---

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
I'll scour the attic for one in the morning.
 

---

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
I never tell people what I weigh. the few times I've allowed guessing people tend to guess about 40-50 lbs lighter. yes, really.

And I'm not big boned, I'm actually fairly tiny. but I'm very muscular. according to the BMI I'm obese, but to look at me I'm plump and curvaceous.

Don't trust the BMI, it lies. and it will make you feel like shit when there is no reason to. I need to lose, but I'm not unhealthy (Doc says!) an when I've been in the "healthy" zone of BMI I looked too skinny and it didn't last. I'm 5'2" and look my healthiest around 150 lbs. According to the BMI, that still makes me "overweight".

the BMI lies.
 

---

Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
comet, you live in a seriously cold climate. Don't you need some subcutaneous to handle that? How lean is everything else in your latitudes?
 

---

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
absolutely the extra layer helps. AND it's hard not to have it. even the really skinny folks put on weight in the fall whether they like it or not. And I'm happy with some - I've just put on more than my comfort level lately.

My rule of thumb is that so long as everything is in the right places, I'm good. when I start to get tummy pooch or more than normal chinnage, it's time to be a little strict with myself.
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Having upped the calorie intake by 10-50Cs I detect some downward movement, and have finally made the "35Kg off" mark.
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Another 2 lbs off this week...making a total of 13 1/2 lbs since the middle of October. Just another 1/2 lb to make it
1 stone...

Yay me!!

The shrinking St Everild!
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Yay you indeed, St. E - and RoS too. Whoopee for all of us!

(though with two lunches out this week I may need be back on the Lettuce Pretend diet)

Mrs. S, pretending she has some lettuce to go with her bottle of water
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Well done Rose of S, and St E.

I am pleased to say that I have made my Christmas target, meaning I have now lost a stone and a half since August.
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Not a good day.
I marzipanned my Christmas cake - and ate the trimmings

Happily it only took about 50g to make me feel sick; I use to be able to eat most of a 250g block before that happened
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Congratulations to all of us who are less than we were...
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:
Not a good day.
I marzipanned my Christmas cake - and ate the trimmings

Happily it only took about 50g to make me feel sick; I use to be able to eat most of a 250g block before that happened

---

In that case, don't you think that makes it a good day? I notice this a lot now - I just can't eat the quantities I used to - which of course is rather the point!

Anyway well done to RoS, Surfing Madness, St. E, Dormouse - to all of us grappling with the issue of weight. Just think of all the improvements to our health - NEQ summed them up really well higher up the page, I thought.

Mrs. S, beset by chocolate Advent calendars
 

---

Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
Being a good Presbyterian, Mrs S, I have eschewed chocolate advent calendars in favour of the Church of Scotland AIDS / HIV project one. (Today's box reads "HIV+ women in Pune make Christmas cards to earn money. Give 5p for every Christmas card you receive today.)

I am baking a birthday cake today, and have planned a design in Smarties for the top. However, I don't need all the colours. There will be left-over Smarties!
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:
Not a good day.
I marzipanned my Christmas cake - and ate the trimmings

Happily it only took about 50g to make me feel sick; I use to be able to eat most of a 250g block before that happened

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by North East Quine:
Being a good Presbyterian, Mrs S, I have eschewed chocolate advent calendars in favour of the Church of Scotland AIDS / HIV project one. (Today's box reads "HIV+ women in Pune make Christmas cards to earn money. Give 5p for every Christmas card you receive today.)

---

Make me feel guilty, NEQ, why don't you! I wouldn't have bought myself a chocolate one, but a friend at work bought it for me 'for being nice to her' (she recently lost her parents in fairly rapid succession).

However, as my positive for the day, I don't even LIKE marzipan, so am saved from that at least

Mrs. S, salad for lunch again
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
I adore marzipan...and have been known to eat the whole block before it got anywhere near the cake....Bad St E. We don't make a cake anymore...
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
It must be a hangover from years of fundraising, but as I was walking into w*rk today I was idly wondering how much weight we had lost between us, IN TOTAL? Seems to me it must be a stupendous - or maybe staggering! - amount. So, not for fundraising at all, but in gratitude for all that podge we aren't having to carry around any more, and possibly just in solidarity, is anyone else up for posting a Total Loss Figure on or about December 31st? Then we can tot them all up and be AMAZED

It's only a thought - anyone else up for it? or isn't it a helpful idea at all?

Mrs. S, looking at those packets of lard
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Good Idea Mrs S.

I have lost 11 pounds

I'm now having a boiled egg for breakfast which is really helping to stave off the addictive need for carbs. I still have the occasional binge, but have noticed that these blips always occur after a couple of glasses of RW. So I'm trying to think of strategies to prevent this without cutting the RW as I only drink it once a week.
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
In that case I need to put my money where my mouth is! (rather than ch*c*l*te, frinstance). I have lost 24 lbs.

WOW - I HAVE LOST 24 LBS!

So that makes 35 lbs already ...

Mrs. S, counting on her fingers

[ 12. December 2012, 09:04: Message edited by: The Intrepid Mrs S ]
 

---

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :
 
Boogie, I often have one of those tiny tins of tuna for breakfast, as another protein option for breakfast.

Huia
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Huia:
Boogie, I often have one of those tiny tins of tuna for breakfast, as another protein option for breakfast.

Huia

---

Good idea - I will get some, for lunch.


 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:

quote:

---

Originally posted by Huia:
Boogie, I often have one of those tiny tins of tuna for breakfast, as another protein option for breakfast.

Huia

---

Good idea - I will get some, for lunch.

---

quote:

---

and have finally made the "35Kg off" mark.

---

Never mind packets of lard... 35 kilos is about what my 9-year-old daughter weighs. Congratulations!

I decided I had better brave the scales and see just how badly I have been overindulging, and was pleasantly surprised - despite not going to the gym and not counting the calories (and comfort eating too, mea maxima culpa) I have only put on about 4lb since I last weighed myself two months ago.

That's the good news. The bad news is that I need to lose about 28lb to get down to my healthiest weight. But I've done it before - I can do it again. I am aiming to lose it by next summer.
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Originally posted by Jane R

quote:

---

But I've done it before - I can do it again.

---

Exactly so, Jane!

I wondered whether to mention this in re Christmas - that we may all put weight back on over those few days, hopefully not too much, but it isn't the end - it just means we sigh, pull up our big girl panties*, and Get Back Down To It. Good luck, shippies all!

* or gird our loins, depending on gender preference

Mrs. S, definitely going for girding her lions!
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
is anyone else up for posting a Total Loss Figure on or about December 31st? Then we can tot them all up and be AMAZED

---

What! Straight after Christmas?
I suppose it could be an additional incentive not to overindulge.
Trouble is, I don't know when I'd start totting it up.

This particular downward trend started in the spring, when I stopped eating last Christmas's leftovers and got back on the wagon with several kilos more to lose than pre-Christmas. However the original plan to eat more healthily started in August 2010, and that's where I've been taking my start weight from.

Of course, if I went back to when I went on my first 'diet', and was able to remember all my losses over the intervening fifty odd years, the total loss would probably be something like three times my current weight
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
is anyone else up for posting a Total Loss Figure on or about December 31st? Then we can tot them all up and be AMAZED

---

What! Straight after Christmas?
I suppose it could be an additional incentive not to overindulge.
Trouble is, I don't know when I'd start totting it up.

This particular downward trend started in the spring, when I stopped eating last Christmas's leftovers and got back on the wagon with several kilos more to lose than pre-Christmas. However the original plan to eat more healthily started in August 2010, and that's where I've been taking my start weight from.

Of course, if I went back to when I went on my first 'diet', and was able to remember all my losses over the intervening fifty odd years, the total loss would probably be something like three times my current weight

---

I was planning on using the figures from the last 'regime', if I can phrase it like that. I can't tell you exactly when mine began, but I could tell you exactly what I weighed then and what I weigh now - that was the figure I was thinking of. And RoS, you've lost such a lot that whatever you were to regain over Christmas would be only a drop in the ocean!

Post the overall loss now if you prefer, it's really only so we can all go 'Wow! look how much we've lost between us' (reflected glory if you like!) Isn't going to MEAN anything

Mrs. S, always ready for some basking time
 

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Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 
For me, December & dieting don't go together, - the month starts with my birthday and tends to get more & more foodie. Added to that the "I've got a lurgy" eating that usually happens (like it is now) then I try to just be careful when I can, not worry too much, and get back into the swing of weight loss in January.

Thankfully this week's weigh-in has shown I've neither gained nor lost anything over the last 3 weeks, but I wonder if all this festivity will begin to show itself in January. Ho Ho Ho.
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
daisydaisy, this really wasn't intended to spur anyone on to feats of self-denial! I just wondered, in that kind of 'how can we raise money out of this?' way that I have, how much approximately we'd shifted between us. I gave up on the fundraising straight away but thought that a general figure might let us all feel good about what could be done - no, what HAD been done.

If you don't want to post it isn't a problem at all, I'm not proposing to tick off any kind of list and look at you over my reading glasses, because this is not a competitive sport, nor a 'name and shame' as it can be at some slimming groups. I just imagined the kind of mountain of packets of sugar/butter/lard that we could contemplate and think 'whatever else, we aren't carrying that around with us any more'.

Mrs. S, just making a suggestion
 

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Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 
Oops - soory - I didn't mean for my post to seem like I was facing self-denial, more that this is how I tackle December. So far in this current weight-loss venture I have lost 32 packs of lard, just over 8% of my original weight.
 

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by daisydaisy:
Oops - sorry - I didn't mean for my post to seem like I was facing self-denial, more that this is how I tackle December. So far in this current weight-loss venture I have lost 32 packs of lard, just over 8% of my original weight.

---

Great stuff - well done daisydaisy!

Mrs. S, having to take her socks off to count the packets
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
So far, I have lost 13 1/2 lbs...

but this week I have faced/am facing one Christmas Party, and 3 Christmas dinners....I am trying not to eat the bad stuff, but its awfully difficult if it is on your plate...
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
I am trying not to eat the bad stuff, but its awfully difficult if it is on your plate...

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
I am trying not to eat the bad stuff, but its awfully difficult if it is on your plate...

---

You could try this method of resisting temptation:
Accept that you will not be able to get through the feasting season without some indulgence, but each time you are tempted ask yourself if what is on the plate is really worth its 'price' in calories/saturated fats/sugar/salt. Unless you think the morsel about to go into your mouth is really worth eating try to save those excess calories for something better.

eg. I haven't had a mince pie this year because I don't enjoy bought ones enough and I'm saving myself for my own home-made ones, which I know I will enjoy (and which I've put off baking until next week)

It doesn't always work, but the more times I've eaten something I shouldn't, and haven't enjoyed it, the easier I've found it to say no the next time.

---

This.

I read about a pro cyclist who had convinced himself that a slice of cake would take an hour's hard training to wear off. It probably wouldn't, but the thought of another hour's hard work was enough to deter him unless he really, really wanted it (and was prepared to put in the payback time on the bike)

No, I don't manage that all the time either - but getting better at it!

Mrs. S, STILL beset by chocolate prowling and prowling around
 

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Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
My self-control is wobbling... a workmate of my husband's gave him a West Indian spiced bun for Christmas and it smells wonderful!

I am resisting the temptation to have mince pies though - the bought ones never taste the same as home-made and I don't have time to make any until next weekend.
 

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Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Gosh, some great results there, and some valiant battling of Christmassy temptations...

I lost sight of the wagon some weeks ago, sadly. I've had a nasty cough/cold thing for the past fortnight and have been eating whatever, whenever. I haven't weighed myself recently, but I think I've cycled up those four pounds that keep coming and going (I can see where they're at by how poochy my tum looks).

My lovely husband is also looking a bit porky. As soon as I'm properly better, there will need to be a reckoning. I'll need to find ways of getting in exercise when it's freezing cold, dark and possibly raining...

Cheers,
Eleanorjane
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
I have had a difficult week...no less than 4 social events attended and although I was mindful of what I put into my mouth and tracked it as far as I could (some of the quantities were "guesstimates") and as I have done very little exercise as the weather has been so cold and icy - or wet and windy - and now I have lost my pedometer and hence my motivation, I fully expect to have gained a substantial amount on Monday. Bother.
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
With apologies for the double post....
But...
I can report that I actually lost 1lb this week!

The grand total so far is now 14lbs 7 oz...

How's everyone else getting on?
 

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
With apologies for the double post....
But...
I can report that I actually lost 1lb this week!

The grand total so far is now 14lbs 7 oz...

How's everyone else getting on?

---

YAY! that's wonderful news St. E!

I'm not going anywhere (weightwise) at the moment, but given - as you say - all the socialising, lack of exercise etc, I refuse to worry.

Mrs. S, just digesting the Best Mincepie Ever* - thank you Emma!

*with a stollen topping

 

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Posted by Freelance Monotheist (# 8990) on :
 
I've lost almost 2 kg this month, and I've been ill and haven't been able to exercise much at all, as each time I went swimming, I fell ill again, it's been cold/wet/some combination of the two or worse, so have been turning to comfort and therefore stodgy food, so didn't expec t to have lost much, if anything at all! Thinking back, I did have an awful lot of soup (leek, cauliflower & potato) that my mum made a big pot of and I had it as a meal (or part of one) every day for a week, which probably helped fill me up with good stuff.
So now I'm only 1.5 kilos away from being at the milestone I've come close to a few times over the last few years, but never got under. Once I'm under that 80 kg mark, I'll be so happy!
After that, 20 kg to go until I'm at my ideal weight!
Over Christmas, I'm just going to have a tiny bit of what I fancy (one or two small roast potatoes/parsnips with Christmas dinner, a small piece of ham, a little bit of stuffing and lots and lots of green veg to fill me up, one chocolate/small piece of Christmas cake/Stollen every day and plenty of hot drinks/soup/fruit/yoghurt if I'm hungry).
FM, Feasting Modestly over the festive season.
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Made the dreaded visit to the surgery this morning for a bp check,and to find out the results of last week's blood tests - specifically the cholesterol score.

Both down

I was afraid that if there hadn't been a significant improvement I would approach the Christmas feasting with a sense of "What the Heck" and just dive in headfirst, but that bit of encouragement will help me to keep (more or less ) on the straight and narrow over the next few weeks.

I hope the rest of you can find the strength to keep going in the face of all the temptations on offer.
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Well done Roseofsharon - that's brilliant news!


 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Yay Freelance Monotheist and RoseOfSharon - keep on keeping on!
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
I weighed myself the other day and was disappointed then Nephew Person to weigh himself and noticed the scales were not calibrated right - I weighed myself again and I was at my Target Weight Mk1!



eta: Target Weight Mk2 may take a little longer!

[ 26. December 2012, 03:17: Message edited by: Welease Woderwick ]
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Excellent wodders! I am not thinking of such things until after New Year. Then we'll be back to what we were doing. My plans to walk during the break have been slightly scuppered by the weather. I have only managed two not very strenuous walks out. Still, better than nothing, I suppose!
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
OK: Two days of feasting done, now to get back to looking after my health & fitness.
The usual mountain of leftovers has to be dealt with, but Mr RoS needs building up, so I'll try to confine the richer morsels to his plate.

The Christmas presents are more of a problem - the theme seems to be "You've done really well, but it's Christmas, so here's a little something to indulge yourself". Unfortunately there's more indulgence than could possibly be fitted into the two days I'd allotted to it.

I think I'll have to donate some to the January raffle at my U3A.

 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Well, after four days away with family at the house of the Intrepid Miss S and her fiance, I am amazed to find I have only put back one pound! Glory be! but as it's far too wet to walk at lunchtime I can see I shall be back to doing tai chi in an empty classroom - better than nothing, but not the same at all

My brother and his wife visited too - he's lost a stone and she, a stone and a half. Visible improvement. Since he was bordering on Type 2 diabetes that has to be good news too. (He got the Hairy Dieters cookbook from us for Christmas )

Mrs. S, thankful that it wasn't worse
 

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Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Feeling inspired reading your posts! Am determined to get going again in the New Year!

Anyone got any thoughts on the Fitness Race for January - tried posting elsewhere but not had any replies yet...pretty sure it's usually Jan and June?

Thanks
Harmony Hope
 

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by harmony hope:
Am determined to get going again in the New Year!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by harmony hope:

Anyone got any thoughts on the Fitness Race for January - tried posting elsewhere but not had any replies yet...pretty sure it's usually Jan and June?

---

It's on, but if I'm slow to post results it's the fault of whoever else didn't volunteer to do it! See you in the circus
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
Well, I managed to remove my jeans yesterday evening - without undoing the zipper or the button! I knew they were getting looser and needed a belt to keep them up, but still...

Today, I have resurrected a pair that have been hanging in the wardrobe for the past year unworn because I could not fasten them up, and they feel perfectly comfortable (and I feel quite slim!).

---

Isn't it lovely when you suddenly feel like that?

And just think of all the money we're saving, fitting into all those clothes we reluctantly consigned to the back of the wardrobe, with all those old coats that lead us to Narnia!

Mrs. S, working on the Grand Sum
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Sorry for double post, but results in so far ....

Dormouse 6 kg or 13.2 lbs
Rose of Sharon 35 kg or 77 lbs
St. Everild 14.5 lbs
Surfing Madness 21 lbs
Boogie 11 lbs
Me 24 lbs
Daisydaisy 16 lbs

Apologies if I missed anyone out - my arithmetic makes that a total of 80.3 kgs, or 176.7 lbs

OVER 350 PACKETS OF LARD! or, a whole person!

Well done to everyone, and many thanks to all for their encouragement. Tomorrow is a whole New Year, and yes, let's make it the year we say Goodbye to All That Flab!

Mrs. S, so grateful for the encouragement/good advice
 

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Posted by Starbug (# 15917) on :
 
Wow, you've all done really well!

Please can I join you for the New Year? Over a year ago, I lost wieght with Rosemary Conley and got down to 9 stone (which was actually TOO thin and people starting asking if I was ill!) However, i've now gone completely the other way and, of this morning, I'm 11 stone 4. No wonder most of my lovely 'thin' clothes don't fit any more. I think Nirvana lies somewhere around 9 stone 7.

Unfortunately, we still have New Year to go and a few social gatherings, but at least I know what the damage is. I ordered a Striiv pedometer in the Amazon sale, whcih should arrive today. I look forward to setting it up, even if it does tell me what a naughty Bug I've been.
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
I fear that 6 kg lost may have been whittled away over the festivities. The inclementr weather (and lack of motivation) meant planned walks did not take place.

Still, I will weigh in next week (I'm giving myself this week to finish up goodies) and start again from wherever I am.

The Hairy Dieters are my friends!!
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
I'm with Dormouse.
The leftovers are being my downfall again this year, so weigh in will be next week. I've been managing one 'good' day to two very bad days so far
 

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Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
I will weigh myself tomorrow. I'm a little terrified of the results...
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Although I don't recommend being ill, as a general rule, it makes sticking to a sensible eating plan a great deal easier as I am simply not interested in all the lovely food that is around at this time of year...

Although I was given several lovely boxes of chocolate as gifts, which poses me a problem...

And my WW Meeting doesn't start again for another week, which is a nuisance.
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I'm checking in for the New Year. My life is far too sedentary now I work from home, I used to walk to work and then spend all day on my feet in clinic but now I'm sitting down all day. I have a genetic connective tissue disorder which is causing an early osteo-arthritis which is not helping me, I've recently given up my active yoga class as my ankles hurt too much. But exercise is what I need to lose weight.
Today I weigh 74.6 kg which doesn't sound too bad but I'm only 4 foot 11 so I'm in the obese category. My eating habits are fairly good (except my cheese addiction) so I'm aiming to reduce my carb intake and to do exercise every weekday, whether half hour walks or 20-30 minutes of active Pilates. I've joined the fitness challenge too
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Starbug:
I ordered a Striiv pedometer in the Amazon sale, whcih should arrive today. I look forward to setting it up, even if it does tell me what a naughty Bug I've been.

---

That looks great, I've left one in my shopping basket to buy myself as a reward when I meet by first goal.
 

---

Posted by Jack the Lass (# 3415) on :
 
I weighed myself this morning and was pleasantly surprised (not to mention relieved) that somehow I managed to not put on weight, and had probably pretty much maintained from just before Christmas. Presumably this means that once I reach my goal the best way to maintain is to eat lots of cake Mind you that's a way away yet (sigh).

Back on the 5:2 today after a week off last week. I'll be rejoining the gym on Thursday when I go back to work (the membership lapsed just before Christmas), at least that's exercise I enjoy so hopefully I'll get to do that 2-3 times a week.

In old money I'd like to lose 4 stone, but that's a very long-term goal. If I lose 2 I'll be back to the weight I was when I got married (still too much, but better than now!) so that's what I'd like as my intermediate goal, by the summer if possible.
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Jack the Lass:

Back on the 5:2 today after a week off last week.

---

I managed to keep the 5:2 going over the Christmas/New Year period, but being under 500 cals on three days in no way made up for the excesses of the other eight.

The tempting leftovers are finished, Mr RoS goes back to work tomorrow, and our eating patterns return to normal.
I'm looking forward to it.
 

---

Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Checking in for the traditional New Year, New You weightloss effort. I've been slacking for the past couple of months and have probably put on about four pounds (I need to weigh in and actually see how I've gone, but I can tell pretty well from how pudgy my tummy is looking).

So, back logging on MyFitnessPal from today. I'm aiming to lose 5 pounds this month as an intial goal.

Best of luck all!
Eleanorjane
 

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Posted by Freelance Monotheist (# 8990) on :
 
Where's the fitness thread, please? Must join pronto as have eaten non-stop over the festive period, oops!
I've been swimming a few times, had a session on the cross trainer, and plan to do Zumba too, as I wxant to get the new programme that's just come out! Oh, and when it gets warmer and drier, I want to start running again!
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
There's a fitness race in the Circus and running and cycling threads in All Saints I believe.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Correction, the runners are in Heaven.
 

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Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Lovely to be back and read of everyone's progress!

I am going back on to My Fitness Pal and would love to friend-up with anyone from SoF for moral support - if anyone would like to PM?

Here's to a brilliant and slimmer and fitter 2013!
 

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dormouse:
The Hairy Dieters are my friends!!

---

Oooh yes - we made their cassoulet for our New Year's Eve 'dinner party' (it was a party and we ate dinner, but I still wouldn't care to describe it as a dinner party). Not only was it yummy and full of flavours, it was reassuring to know that it wasn't full of fat!


Managed to get out for a walk at lunchtime yesterday - another step back into routine. 2013 here we caome!

Mrs. S, finished the fruit cake yesterday
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
There was something vaguely ironic about watching the Hairy Dieters last night (cunningly being repeated to take advantage of all those New Year Resolution dieters, I note!) and eating our way through a giant box of Thornton's chocolates!!!
 

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Posted by Starbug (# 15917) on :
 
Most of our opened chocolates have been finished. Just a few Maltesers and Milk Tray left for tonight, along with some Pringles and peanuts. Everything we didn't open has been safely packed away, out of sight and hopefully out of mind!

Going for a long walk into town later. If I'm not tempted to buy anything too heavy in the sales, I may also walk back.
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Well, I haven't eaten since boxing day due to a dose of flu. So at least I will have stayed the same.

Now I have a stone to lose but it'll take a while to feel strong enough to go swimming again. Short walks with the old pooch are my first goal.


 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Have put on half a stone over Christmas, so start back on being good tomorrow, both in what I eat and what I do.
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
I finally braved the scales.
Gained 2k - and that in spite of keeping to the 5:2 regime. That really only works if the '5' days are reasonably healthy, not as fat & sugar laden as mine were.

Hope to have better news to report next time.
 

---

Posted by Freelance Monotheist (# 8990) on :
 
I've lost the grand total of 7 kilos since August, which is 1.1 stone in old money, if I can be added to the total weight loss list!
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:
Gained 2k

---

My typing fingers were suffering from wishful thinking - it was actually 3K up

 

---

Posted by Starbug (# 15917) on :
 
Weighed myself this morning and I've lost 3.5 pounds!!!

I'm going shopping later while Mr Bug goes to The Football Place and I've set myself a target to use only the stairs - no escalators or lifts.
 

---

Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Fantastic work, Starbug!

I hopped back on the wagon, then quickly off again with a friend visiting from New Zealand. Back on today and very motivated...

Nothing like seeing yourself under bright lights with mirrors that show every angle... I have back fat! I need to find some exercise that works my upper body 'cos just walking isn't cutting it. I've found a variety of local classes so I just need to get organised and get to them off an evening!

Good luck all, and step away from the post-Chrismas goodies!

Eleanorjane
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Freelance Monotheist:
I've lost the grand total of 7 kilos since August, which is 1.1 stone in old money, if I can be added to the total weight loss list!

---

Of course - the more the merrier! I make that 87.3 kg, or 192.1 lbs, or just shy of 14 stone. Not bad, huh?

We went for a long walk yesterday, about 6 miles, scrambling uphill and down dale through the mud and wet grass. Unfortunately we forgot to take any sustenance with us, so that by 2.30 I thought I might actually pass out.
That meant that when we got back through the door I just ate everything in sight, even two of those awful sickly-sweet Guylian seashells*. NOT a good plan, but it did make me think about how useful it is to plan your food for the day so you never get as hungry as that.

I should really have 'It's all about control' tattooed inside my wrist as a permanent reminder!

*someone else brought them on New Year's Eve, honest.

Mrs. S, who should have brought the rest of the seashells to work (like Nen and her mince pies)
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
[QUOTE] those awful sickly-sweet Guylian seashells*.

---

In spite of very heavy hints over the years (to the point of pinning a chocolate wrapper to the pin board and saying regularly "This is my favourite chocolate"), Mr Lil's idea of Christmas shopping was always to buy whatever chocolate is on special offer at the local shops. I usually ended up eating it anyway

He finally got the message when I made him take a box of Guylian Seashells back on Boxing Day to the garage where he bought them.
He hasn't bought me any chocolates since, but to be honest, that's not a bad thing, is it?
 

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Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Back once again to the trying to think of ways to motivate myself to study other than chocolate! (Any ideas welcome.)
Also was meant to be going to the gym today, but it won't be happening, as just breathing today hurts thanks to the bug I have picked up (moan over I promise!)
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Weighed in this morning for the first time since 17th December - and I have shed 9 lbs.
I told you I didnt feel very well (cold bug, not the other one)!
In WW terms, I have reached my 10% target, and I have only another 1 st 11 lbs to get to my end-goal!

Yay me!

How is everyone else doing?

(Sorry to all those who are also not feeling very well...it is a horrid bug and takes a long time to get rid of. I feel OKish today but I know I will feel tired this afternoon.)
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Well done St E.
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
Weighed in this morning for the first time since 17th December - and I have shed 9 lbs.
I told you I didnt feel very well (cold bug, not the other one)!
In WW terms, I have reached my 10% target, and I have only another 1 st 11 lbs to get to my end-goal!

Yay me!

How is everyone else doing?

(Sorry to all those who are also not feeling very well...it is a horrid bug and takes a long time to get rid of. I feel OKish today but I know I will feel tired this afternoon.)

---

Fantastic news St E - yay you indeed.

The Envious Mrs. S - can I get the weight loss without the bug, please?
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
A new regime starts today - swimming at lunchtime on the days I'm not working and 45 minutes cycling whilst watching Pointless every day at 5:15 (My husband has a bike trainer which involves a real bike on a thingie, he's adjusted it for me).

I'm off to Rome with my girlie friends in May, so my target is another stone by then. Then nice NEW SHORTS!


 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
OK, so I put on over the Festivities - but only a kilo, so I'm quite pleased. My aim is to lose 2 kg in 4 weeks. We're back with the Hairy Dieters, although I am still having a couple of choccies a night (as long as I've been good the rest of the day)
I'm starting swimming again tomorrow.
 

---

Posted by Starbug (# 15917) on :
 
I took a big bag of unwanted chocs to work with me today and oferred them to colleagues. There are always a few 'gannets' who will finish them off. The only problem is when I walk past their desk and see the bag...
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
My flatmate bought me a Sharon fruit today, she said she wanted to buy me chocolate coz i was feeling ill, but knew I was also trying to be healthy.
 

---

Posted by JoannaP (# 4493) on :
 
I am back on the WW wagon as of today - having lost 3 stone, I got nearly half of it back again

I have done it once, so I can do it again. I hope.
 

---

Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Well done St E! And hope those feeling ill feel better soon.

Surfing Madness - what is a Sharon fruit?! and study motivation needs to come from you, I think. What little things do you enjoy (that don't contain calories?)? Also, the usual stuff about regular breaks, fresh air, lots of water and finding ways to study that suit you (I'm a visual learner and learn by talking so I did lots of brainstorm type graphs and was verbally tested by anyone I could cajole into it.)

There was just a show on TV about Cornwall and they were showing clotted cream and icecream... ooh, that sounds good but must resist!

Best of luck, All.
EJ
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Eleanor Jane Sharon fruit are also called Persimmon. They are currently one of my favourite foods.
 

---

Posted by Freelance Monotheist (# 8990) on :
 
I reward myself for doing stuff with a new film/DVD boxset, as I too tended to give myself nutritional rewards that my body did not need!
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
Eleanor Jane Sharon fruit are also called Persimmon. They are currently one of my favourite foods.

---

Also known as Kaki Fruit.
I have seen some for sale under that name around these parts recently, and although I like them, and happily buy Sharon fruit I fel disinclined to buy kakis

[ 07. January 2013, 22:42: Message edited by: Roseofsharon ]
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by JoannaP:
I am back on the WW wagon as of today - having lost 3 stone, I got nearly half of it back again

I have done it once, so I can do it again. I hope.

---

Of course you can, JoannaP. (I am a lapsed WW Gold member too...)
I am quite liking the new WW approach...

Onward and downwards, everyone!
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
My friend Derek left me a chocolate on my keyboard. Nothing unusual there - I think he often hands out stuff he's been given - except that I was so overcome that when I logged back into the laptop, I began to type <chocolate> instead of my password.

Mrs. S, ch*c*late-deprived
 

---

Posted by Starbug (# 15917) on :
 
One of my colleagues bought a fruit pot from our lunchtime food trolley, then realised he couldn't eat it becuase he was going to the dentist and so he gave it to me! Lovely - and far more healthy than the snack I was planning to buy from the same trolley!
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Well now - I had a huge sugary binge last night and I'm now VERY cross with myself. Where did that come from, not had one for months?



Maybe it was because I upped my exercise for the first time. Swimming lunch time then 45 mins on the bike thingie whilst watching Pointless. Maybe I need a 'little something' healthy before the bike ride?
 

---

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
Carrot sticks!
 

---

Posted by Nanny Ogg (# 1176) on :
 
Whilst I was at a housing advice drop in a person I was introduced to a woman from the local council who was there to provide information about healthcare. I've been given advice a free fitness scheme (have been given a form to be filled in by my GP or diabetic nurse). I've also got an appointment to see her next week to discuss my health issues and healthy eating.

It may be worth people checking if similar schemes are available through your local councils, or health centres, especially if anyone has health issues. I never knew any of this was available until today!
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Weekly weigh in is 73.8kg which is 0.8 kg lost. Better than nothing, especially as I hadn't kicked in with a diet until today, I just increased my exercise slightly.
Children back at school now so I have more freedom to exercise and less food temptations around.
 

---

Posted by Gussie (# 12271) on :
 
I think I'd better join in having put on about 11lbs over the last year or so. At least I was ill over Christmas otherwise the scales would have shown I was even heavier.
 

---

Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Well done H A - that's a healthy loss, methinks.

Welcome aboard, Gussie.

How is everyone doing today? I've had a bit of a crap day with about 4 1/2 hours driving leaving little time for exercise and some not brilliant food choices. I did move from wanting a chocolate bar to eating a 'light' strawberry trifle, so that's something. And I finally did the pilates DVD I bought a year ago, but it doesn't burn many calories...

Anyway, here's to a better day tomorrow!

Cheers,
EJ
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I need to do some OU work for a couple of hours and then I'll get the exercise DVD out for half hour.
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
I have "retired" three jackets that are now too big (well, they are in the washing basket prior to being taken to Oxfam!), bought a new jacket which will have to work with black, grey and navy trousers- and, being a burgundy colour, it will-and resurrected from the recycling pile a black linen jacket and a blue boiled wool edge to edge cardigan jacket.

Now, I could do with some smaller trousers...
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
My plan to swim on Tuesday was thwarted by the curse of "Sod it, I can't be arsed". Must try harder...!

Otherwise we're eating well, but sensibly, I think.
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Having hoovered up the last oddments of Christmas goodies I am properly back on the wagon (I think) and having a brisk 30min walk most days, so hope soon to be seeing signs that the damage of the festive season is being undone.

Unfortunately I have three 'events' looming before the end of the month:
A pub lunch for New Year with my knitting/crochet group,
A three course/venue "Grub Crawl" with our housegroup
A Ruby Wedding dinner with my brother & family (plus a hotel breakfast the following morning)
I have no control over the menu of any of them.
 

---

Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 
I've been tiptoeing round this thread for a long time; months of comfort eating before Christmas, plus the festive season itself, has taken me to a weight I'm horrified by.

I've also been looking at some of the reasons why I overeat, they've taken a while to come to terms with.

On track with a weight loss plan this week so far but want to see if I've lost any pounds at my next weigh-in before committing myself further...

Nen - always glad to give a box of Guylian Seashells a home; they're my favourites.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:

Unfortunately I have three 'events' looming before the end of the month:
A pub lunch for New Year with my knitting/crochet group,
A three course/venue "Grub Crawl" with our housegroup
A Ruby Wedding dinner with my brother & family (plus a hotel breakfast the following morning)
I have no control over the menu of any of them.

---

Hopefully it won't turn out so bad. Pubs tend to have a few healthy options these days and I always see what fish is available. Hotel dinners aren't usually over-enthusiastic with portions and you might be able to opt out of some things, sauces for instance, and control the accompaniments. The breakfast might be grilled or poached. The 'grubcrawl' is slightly more difficult but you can control portions and we all need a few days off
 

---

Posted by kankucho (# 14318) on :
 
Hello everyone. Mind if I join the support group?

Checking in at a starting weight of 15 stone 4 (97 kg), and a waistline that I haven't dared to check but my 38" trousers refuse to stay near my waist without the assistance of braces.

The move from 'really ought to' to 'let's get on with it' was prompted by a BBC breakfast news interview with Michael Mosley last week. Mosley, as some may know, has released a book based on his TV investigation last year into the benefits of intermittent one-day fasting. I've never had any time for fasting, either as a spiritual or health-related pursuit, but Dr Mosley's matter-of-fact explanation has persuaded me to give it a go. Basically (for the benefit of the uninitiated - I haven't checked up-thread for any previous discussion of this) you choose two days a week on which to cut calorie intake down below 600 (500 for women) and eat what you want the rest of the time.

So, here I am, a week into the campaign, and on my third fast day in that period (I'm doing Mondays and Thursdays which, coincidentally, are the days Mosley himself found to be the most convenient). And I've been surprised to discover it's not too bad an experience. 250 calories worth of slow-release carbs (porridge) in the morning forms an effective bridge to the other 300 - a bit of meat and plenty of green stuff - in the evening. I hold the remaining allowance for splashes of milk in drinks throughout the day.

I was suspicious of the 'eat what you want' part, since that's what got me up past 15 stone in the first place. But, as Mosley predicted, I've quickly adjusted to knowing when I'm full and sated, and don't crave much beyond that. Blimey.

Has anyone else tried this method, and can offer tips and caveats?
 

---

Posted by kankucho (# 14318) on :
 
^ Further to the above...

Ok, I've done the search & back-reading now, and am following the 5:2 adventures of Roseofsharon, et al.

35kg, Rose?! That's fantastic! And very encouraging to this beginner.

[ 10. January 2013, 11:50: Message edited by: kankucho ]
 

---

Posted by justlooking (# 12079) on :
 
I'm doing the 5:2 regime. I lapsed over Christmas but have just had 2 consecutive fast days.

I've been shopping today and over the next four days I will eat 2 lamb steaks, 2 salmon steaks, 2 mackerel fillets, broccoli, carrots, onions, tomatoes, lettuce, peppers, pears, oranges, 'actimel' yogurt drinks, the remains of a baguette, plus coffee, tea and half a bottle of red wine. I will try to resist the 4 packs of crisps remaining from the 6 pack.

Tonight I have had a large cornish pasty, 2 packs of crisps and a ready-made prawn cocktail with crusty bread and half a bottle of red wine. Joy.

[ 10. January 2013, 19:10: Message edited by: justlooking ]
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by kankucho:
^ Further to the above...

Ok, I've done the search & back-reading now, and am following the 5:2 adventures of Roseofsharon, et al.

35kg, Rose?! That's fantastic! And
very encouraging to this beginner.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Nenya:
I've also been looking at some of the reasons why I overeat, they've taken a while to come to terms with.

---

Nen - I recommended this book Eating Less to Boogie, a way upthread, and I think she found it helpful. YMMV of course ...

In the meantime Mr. S finished off the seashells - I wish I'd known you liked them then I wouldn't have felt forced to help him

Mrs. S, ex-librarian and closet book-pusher
 

---

Posted by kankucho (# 14318) on :
 
Comet: I did a bit of reading around on the web, but there are a lot of conflicting opinions out there. I'm going to stick with Mosley, whose plan I've outlined above, and ignore everything else until I see if that works or not. I've invested £6 in his book, currently in the post.

I don't plan to get quasi-religious over the 'science' of this method — which, as Mosley notes, hasn't been thoroughly tested. The benefit to me so far (and it's very early days) has been the realisation that if I can survive an occasional day on minimal calorie intake, I can be a bit more mindful of what I'm eating the rest of the time too.

Watch this space to find out how hubristic that statement turns out to be later on.
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Nen - I recommended this book Eating Less to Boogie, a way upthread, and I think she found it helpful.

---

VERY helpful!

My fat is all in my mind (if you see what I mean) and this book is really helping me to change my mind.

I am on my second reading now as I'm a slow learner.


 

---

Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Nen - I recommended this book Eating Less to Boogie, a way upthread, and I think she found it helpful.

---

VERY helpful!

My fat is all in my mind (if you see what I mean) and this book is really helping me to change my mind.

---

No, I don't think I understand the concept of fat being all in the mind... I wish that was the only place mine was. Maybe I need to read the book to understand.

Thank you very much for the recommendation. Even better that it's Kindle-fied!.

Nen - Buying Now With One Click.
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Pub lunch went OK, although it turned out that there are more calories in baked sea bass than I anticipated.
But I have ended the day only 130 calories above target.

I have volunteered to make a salad for the Grub Crawl next week, so I can be sure there'll be one low-fat dish I can fill up on (Red Colesaw: Shredded red cabbage, grated raw beets & carrots, and pomegranite seeds, in a balsamic and raspberry vinegar oil-free dressing). I usually make a big sherry trifle, but if I did that wouldn't be able to resist it.

There's absolutely nothing low-fat on the menu for the ruby wedding dinner, so I'll just have to be very strong willed at breakfast and lunch.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
That salad sounds good
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
I appear to be eating my weight in fruit in the hope that I won't eat cake and chocolate!
 

---

Posted by justlooking (# 12079) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by kankucho:
... if I can survive an occasional day on minimal calorie intake, I can be a bit more mindful of what I'm eating the rest of the time too.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
I appear to be eating my weight in fruit in the hope that I won't eat cake and chocolate!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by justlooking:
I don't do more than 2 days of eating what I like because I like high fat savoury things and on the other eating days I try and stick to lean meat, oily fish, eggs, lots of vegetables and some fruit.

Overall I'm aiming at 7,000 to 8,000 calories over 7 days.

---

• Eat protein at every meal.
  Eat breakfast within a 40 minutes of waking.
  Keep well hydrated.
  Have a small snack before bed.

The scales didn't move downwards this week - but they didn't go up either! Plus, I've only had one really bad night since I started and I haven't felt the need to binge eat so far. All in all, pretty good!
 

---

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
I've been reading up on IF through leangains and Marksdailyapple. I've been resistant because, essentially, I'm afraid of blowing it. I'm in the midst of a stress storm right now that should resolve itself by the end of tuesday, so I'm planning to start on wednesday. I'm going to try for one day a week to start, see how it feels, and then go to two. I really hope I can stick to it!
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
I am struggling at the moment on two fronts:

1), Planning for Younger Son's forthcoming wedding has somehow switched my motivation to "slimming for the wedding", instead of "eating to improve my health". The latter has been working well, the former has, on many previous occasions, caused me to resent being deprived of the high fat foods I love, to cheat and ultimately to fail.

2) The consequences of Christmas indulgence - when I alternated my two <500calorie days with five very high calorie days. Now, although I am still able to keep to the two 'fasting' days, I no longer find myself satisfied with the low fat foods I had previously been eating and enjoying on the other days.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
From what I've read online about IF it would seem that having very high cal days on the 5 days can cause some difficulties with how one relates to food, as your body then craves high cal and has more of a grudge about the 2 days fasting without them. The way I'm approaching it is eating a fairly sensible everyday diet on the 5 days (which includes occasional treats). My plan is to not think too hard about food on these days as I need to be especially careful not to obsess, as I have bipolar disorder and can easily be led into addictive behaviour.
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
In spite of taking no exercise at all owing to this lingering cough and illness and being a real couch potato, I still lost 1lb this week!

Now fitting into a UK SIZE 16!
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
I lost 1 kg this week!!! I know I need to take exercise to keep this up, but I am happy this week, at least.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
First day fasting and doing well. I skipped my morning latte and spent the day drinking black tea with orange blossom (in proper cups so it felt treat-like!). I had a thin chicken and veg soup for lunch at 167 calories and I've just had homemade lentil and pumpkin soup with half a slice of bread (approx 250-300 calories). I did feel hungry this afternoon but busied myself to take my mind off it. The lentil soup is good as it is filling as well as nutritional but low cal, and the rest of the family can eat it without protest.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Well done, St Everild and Dormouse
 

---

Posted by JoannaP (# 4493) on :
 
Well I have lost 2lb, which is a great encouragement as I started last week well but did not end so well. If only I could eat chocolate cheesecake and lose weight every week!
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Weekly weigh: well I'm 73.5 this morning so I've lost less than a pound. But that is 2 pounds in 2 weeks and until yesterday I wasn't really dieting only exercising. Steady as she goes.
Starting weight 74.6 kg
Now 73.5 kg
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:
I am struggling at the moment on two fronts:

1), Planning for Younger Son's forthcoming wedding has somehow switched my motivation to "slimming for the wedding", instead of "eating to improve my health". The latter has been working well, the former has, on many previous occasions, caused me to resent being deprived of the high fat foods I love, to cheat and ultimately to fail.

2) The consequences of Christmas indulgence - when I alternated my two <500calorie days with five very high calorie days. Now, although I am still able to keep to the two 'fasting' days, I no longer find myself satisfied with the low fat foods I had previously been eating and enjoying on the other days.

---

I'm struggling too, perhaps because of the really cold weather. Have had to start adding leftover carbs to the lunchtime salad - so far I've had couscous with bits in, rice with lentils (and bits in) and tomorrow it'll be Jamie's spicy mash, with sweet potato (you can guess the rest). Trouble is, they are all so yummmy that it's a struggle to wait till lunchtime

I have also had to resort to telling myself, firmly, that yes of course I can eat that chocolate/pork pie/whatever, but I'm not cheating anyone but me - and it'll be me that has to deal with the fallout.

Courage, all of us, esp. RoseofSharon - you've come so far! Think of that, rather than how far you feel you have to go.

Mrs. S, repeating to herself ...
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:

Courage, all of us, esp. RoseofSharon - you've come so far! Think of that, rather than how far you feel you have to go.

Mrs. S, repeating to herself ...

---

A very good point! You have achieved so much, do focus on that. Likewise start looking towards that positive goal again, of gaining health.
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Just wondering. Have people got targets, and dates when they want to get there, or are they just going with the "i'd like to lose some" approach?
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Yes - I would like to lose a stone by May the 4th (be with you). That's the day I go to Rome with five girlie friends.

Do-able I think.


 

---

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
back into a size 9 (US) by the time I move at the end of May.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I want to get to 68kg by 1st April. That is a loss of just over a stone in 3 months, roughly a pound a week.
 

---

Posted by Freelance Monotheist (# 8990) on :
 
I need to lose another 25 kilos, but am doing it slowly, sensibly and sustainably (that's a lot of 's'es!). Ideally by this time next year I'll be at my target weight!
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
Just wondering. Have people got targets, and dates when they want to get there,

---

I just want to drop one of my blood-pressure tablets. The Doc has said to try without for a month and see if my bp is still normal, so that is the first goal.
Second is to get my cholesterol low enough that the Doc doesn't threaten me with statins every time I go to the surgery. Next test for that is due in November.

I seem to have conquered the desire to keep eating that has followed my high-fat Christmas. Today and yesterday I kept within my calorie allowance and did not feel hungry - although I have upped it by 50-80 cals, to make up for the effects of the cold weather.

I'm pleased to report that I have dropped the 3Kg I put on over Christmas.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Well done!
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
My second fast day today, I'm having haddock chowder for lunch (126 calories) and we are having lentil and mushroom bolognaise for tea, almost spaghetti-free for me. I'm drinking black tea with bergamot and jasmine in china cups.
 

---

Posted by Nanny Ogg (# 1176) on :
 
I went to the drop in on Tuesday and the health advisor did all my measurements including BMI, as well as taking blood pressure and peak flow.

I've a form to be signed by my doctor which I'll take next week which will allow me free sessions for 12 weeks at the local gym/pool and they will work out an exercise plan taking into account my various health problems.

The health advisor will go through my diet and encourage me to make changes for a healthier lifestyle which will assist in losing weight.

All this is free through my local council working with NHS. Check out whether your council or doctor's practice have similar schemes. I know that some slimming groups offer free sessions if referred by a GP, and same areas are setting up schemes for those who have a serious weight problem.
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Good luck Nanny Ogg - that sounds like a Good Thing all round!

Mrs. S, reminding herself that Chocolate is Not The Answer (now what was the question?)
 

---

Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
I'm doing the 5:2 thing as well. It seems to be working so far - I lost 3.5 pounds last week despite forgetting to do the fast on Friday (making last week the 6:1 diet) and not being particularly careful about what I ate on Sunday. More than half of the Christmas weight off already!

Also trying to get to the gym three times a week for a workout, but snowed under with work (no pun intended) at the moment so it's not as easy as it sounds...

I'm aiming to be at my target weight by the end of May, but it would be nice to get there sooner; if I can lose about 2 pounds a week I might be able to do it by the end of April. Don't want to make myself ill with crash dieting though.
 

---

Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Hmm... fasting, not for me! I suspect it works by lowering your calories over the week i.e. I don't think it matters whether you get (for example) 2000 day making 14000 a week or very little for two days and the rest on the other five days making 14000 a week.

I have fasted a few times as part of my spiritual practice, but I've long lost the shiny enthusiasm that makes that reasonable. I'll keep plodding away trying to stick to my daily calories and fit in as much exercise as I can to my daily routine.

I'm not doing brilliantly but I've lost most of the 4 pounds I put on in since Novemberish. Onwards and downwards!
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Me too - I'm trying to get into daily new habits and fasting would confuse that for me.

Thick question alert:

I have slim legs and arms, all my fat is in my middle, like a barrel. When I go on the bike I'm only exercising my legs - will it still burn the barrel fat?
 

---

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :
 
yes. Aerobic activity burns all the fat, wherever it is. it will build your leg muscles (hey, hot thighs!) but we don't get to control where fat comes off. alas. I wouldn't mind keeping my boobs and getting it to shrink elsewhere first, like my double chin and my ass.
 

---

Posted by Lamb Chopped (# 5528) on :
 
Ha. With me, the tummyfat isnt budging, tho the chin, the ass and ( weep) the boobs have all gone. Now I'm losing in the fingers, the neck, and the backs of my hands. Why?
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I'm apple shaped and all my fat is on my belly. I find the best way to reduce that area is toning exercises targeted there.
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
That "Grub Crawl", which happened yesterday evening, started well but the dessert course was my downfall.
Optimistically,I thought the 500cal day I had planned for today would make up for that - until my skull came into violent contact with an icy road this morning, and I spent the rest of the day feeling sore and miserable, and in need of comfort food and naps.
Back on the wagon tomorrow!
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I hope your head is okay!
Fasting day for me so I'm about to have some black tea with roses. No breakfast for me, I have leek and potato soup for lunch at 108 calories and this evening we are having baked smoked haddock fillet with poached egg, accompanied by stir-fried cabbage with a handful of peanuts (300 calories by my reckoning). Probably a blood orange for a snack later.
My exercise regime is limited today though as the kids are home due to the snow.
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Another 2 lbs gone - 25 lbs in total, now. More than half way there... yay me!

How is everyone else getting on?

(Sorry to hear of your accident - hope you are feeling a bit better today.)
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
Another 2 lbs gone - 25 lbs in total, now. More than half way there... yay me!

How is everyone else getting on?

(Sorry to hear of your accident - hope you are feeling a bit better today.)

---

Yay you indeed, St E - that is fabulous progress! Onward and downward...

Mrs. S, trying to muster the enthusiasm for a snowy walk
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Just been out for a wander around town...the council have gritted the pedestrian areas and it isn't too bad at all. It doesn't feel particularly cold to me either...where snow is lying it is quite soft and slushy.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Weekly weigh is 72.6kg which is almost 1kg weight loss this week, a total of 2 kg (4.4lbs) since I started 3 weeks ago. The 5:2 fasting is really making a difference, I think, as my loss doubled this week.
Just having a little portion of porridge now, as I went out in the snow for the school run without breakfast this morning (the day after fasting) and a few seconds whoosiness as my body reacted to the minus 4 temp very quickly told me to get some carbs.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I've just downloaded my fitness pal to my iPad as I am sure it will fit in well with my OCD tendencies
 

---

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

quote:

---

Hmm... fasting, not for me! I suspect it works by lowering your calories over the week...

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Surfing Madness:
I'm finding I am always hungry at the moment, I'm still managing to eat relatively healthily, but it's tough. I'm blaming the cold weather!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Firenze:
I got through Christmas just gaining about 3 lbs - it's the recent snowy/icy weather that's really doing for me. It's not just that salad really doesn't cut it, but that you don't feel like going out of the house save for dire necessity - so about the only exercise I take is migrating between armchairs.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
People like RoS, who have really shed the weight, do you find the cold noticeably hard to deal with?

---

Yes, absolutely!
Four layers of clothing is the minimum indoors, and often seven for outdoors.
Haven't been walking since my fall last w/e - partly because of residual aches & pains, partly from the cold, but mainly from the fear of slipping again.

Too cold for salad, but I make up a huge tray of mediterranean vegetables, baked with a low fat balsamic vinaigrette, at the weekends, and reheat in portions to eat during the week. It's surprisingly low in calories. Really I should have moved with the seasons, and be using roasted root veg in the same way - but they are surprisingly high in calories

Tonight is that Ruby Wedding dinner I mentioned previously. It'll be good to see my brother's family again, but I'll be pleased to see the back of all the socializing over food that's been going on for the last month!
 

---

Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
Marks and Spencer Thermalgen underwear is my friend. With a pair of thermal leggings and long-sleeved T-shirt I only need one more layer on top, though I'm still wearing two pairs of socks and my walking boots when I go outside.

We got off fairly lightly here - only 2 inches of snow, and a lot of it's melted. We are supposed to be getting more today but it hasn't arrived yet...

I only lost about a pound this week, but I wasn't able to exercise as much as usual and I rather let myself go at Sunday lunch (unable to resist mince-and-pineapple crumble for pudding). Oh well, at least the weight is still heading downward!
 

---

Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 
Talk of roasted veg reminds me I have a few ageing peppers in the fridge. If I put them in the oven to roast about now, they would be ready to add to a veg stock by lunchtime.

Also, I did a thorough fridge purge/clean yesterday, so it would keep up the desired level tidiness.

Tonight there's not a lot I can do: we're out to a Burns Supper, so that'll be haggis, neeps and tatties no option.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Good idea with the Mediterranean veg, I might try that with the peppers and courgettes sitting around.
We're having our haggis tomorrow so that we can all eat it together and teach the boys some poetry.
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Another problem is that when you're out walking (which I am back on trying to do every lunchtime except when I'm at Tai Chi) the lanes are still icy here. So, you can't walk fast in case you slip (Mr S will have me humanely destroyed if I break a fourth wrist) but you need to walk fast to avoid freezing from the ground up

Oh, and I have to wear gloves and a scarf at Tai Chi or I can feel the heat just draining away

Mrs. S, tights on under the jeans today

[ 25. January 2013, 11:40: Message edited by: The Intrepid Mrs S ]
 

---

Posted by kankucho (# 14318) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Jane R:

11.30ish: "Isn't it about time for lunch?"

12.30. (approx) : "Hey! Time for lunch!"

1.00: "Did I mention it's lunchtime? Feed me NOW!"

1.30: "STARVING! STARVING! STARVING!"

2.00ish: "Oh all right - be like that then."

And I stop feeling hungry until teatime, when I can gorge myself on salad until it hurts before breaking 500 calories....

---

*box tick*

A cup of miso soup @ 29 calories does the trick for me mid-afternoon.
And I've been amazed at how many very filling supermarket ready-meals come in at under 300 calories. I could live solely on Shepherds/Cumberland/cottage pies and similar mash-topped varieties using fish and chicken. In fact, I've done a couple of non-fast days on the morning porridge and a ready meal for lunch and dinner which, even with a couple of wee snacks on top, brought me home at under 1200 cals, with no hunger pangs at all.
 

---

Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Can anyone who's on My Fitness Pal help out please? Would like to record cholesterol in my daily diet but despite changing my settings to list cholesterol in my daily food whatever I add it's still showing 'zero'. Any ideas please?

Thanks
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Oh dear, 1/2lb on this week. I thought I'd been keeping track of what I ate, but being unable to get out owing to the snow has obviously had an effect.
And today I ate out at lunchtime (pan fried pigeon breast...it was a starter but I had it as a main and a mango pud, and the ate out this evening (a gang of people went to a balti hou
Se) means that today will not have been very good. And a lunchtime meeting tomorrow...aaarrggghhh.
Any suggestions, anyone?
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I stayed the same this week and I know the culprit - portion sizes creeping up. Oh dear this is toooooo easy to do!

Back on the straight and narrow now. My goal is 3 pounds a month until June - should be do-able!


 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I'm going to weigh in slightly late this week. I should have fasted yesterday but it was eldest's birthday so we went out and pigged on Chinese food. Today I am doing my fast and will weigh tomorrow, though I do not expect it to be good!
Might do an extra lot of exercise today...
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by harmony hope:
Can anyone who's on My Fitness Pal help out please? Would like to record cholesterol in my daily diet but despite changing my settings to list cholesterol in my daily food whatever I add it's still showing 'zero'. Any ideas please?

Thanks

---

I've had the same problem with cholesterol and salt content, and I think the information you get depends on who entered the information in the database, and what they were interested in recording. Quite often members who are only interested in the calorie content only enter that information, and maybe the fats.

The most reliable foodstuffs for nutritional information are the unstarred items, which have been entered by the the people who run MFP. Otherwise, you can find the information about the product you want from other sources and enter them in the database yourself.
 

---

Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :
 
Roseofsharon - thanks for this! Did you use any other webites in particular if I can ask or just go product by product?
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Weekly weigh 72.1kg. This is 0.5kg less than last week's weigh-in (but more than I weighed on Friday owing to the birthday binge!).
 

---

Posted by Lucia (# 15201) on :
 
I posted on this thread ages ago in September complaining how I had gained weight and needed to lose some. A week later I was diagnosed with a very large ovarian cyst and needed surgery! NO wonder I was looking so fat (looking at photos from just before then I looked almost pregnant!) and had put on weight . Post surgery about 7lb lighter! However I still have weight to lose which really is fat. In the last month or so I have taken up walking for half an hour 3 times a week, which is probably not enough exercise but is better than the no exercise at all I was doing before.

I have returned to my own low carb version of doing Weightwatcher's points counting and starting from 168 lb have gone down 5lb in just over a week. I know that the weightloss in the first week is mainly water and now I need to keep it up to lose the fat round my middle. I hope to lose at least a pound each week with the aim of being no more than 147 lb by the summer ie end of June. Then maybe those clothes I like which are lurking unworn in the wardrobe might actually fit me again....
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Welcome back Lucia! and I agree that that's not a very good way to lose 7lbs so we're glad to see you again

Half an hour's exercise three times a week is a very good start

Mrs. S, still got a long way, still got a long way to go! (thank you Gerry Rafferty)
 

---

Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
Go for it Lucia!

Meanwhile, I did my weekly weigh-in this morning and discovered I have lost 3 pounds. I think this may be because I had to do a workout on one of my fast days, because I haven't been particularly careful about sticking to the diet the rest of the time...

I did the workout just before my normal lunchtime and wasn't hungry at all until afterwards. Then I felt hungry for most of the afternoon, but managed to stick to the fast without feeling too terrible. Not sure I'd recommend it on a regular basis though.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Welcome back Lucia! Glad you are better now.
I always do my exercise prior to eating, even on fast days, as it is more likely to break down the fat reserves then apparently.
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by harmony hope:
Roseofsharon - thanks for this! Did you use any other webites in particular if I can ask or just go product by product?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Jane R:
I realised this morning that I've lost over half a stone in four weeks. Woo hoo!

---

Wow! well done! that is excellent news


Mrs. S, hanging on grimly
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Jane R:
I realised this morning that I've lost over half a stone in four weeks. Woo hoo!

Now all I have to do is keep it up until I've got rid of the rest of my Excess Baggage...

---

Congratulations!
Having weighed myself this morning, I have too! I am 71.2 kg, a loss of over 7lbs since Jan 1st. Yesterday's weight was just a blip.
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Well done everyone.

I am wearing my new size 14 hoody....this is a major milestone for me, so am feeling pleased with myself. Now to keep sticking with it.
 

---

Posted by Lucia (# 15201) on :
 
Lots of good news here! Good work! For those who are not seeing so much success at the moment, hang on in there and keep at it!
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
I'm feeling still unmotivated... Put on 500g last week. MrD is interested in the 5:2 diet (though, TBH, I do have my doubts about whether he could really stick to it. I know I'll struggle!) so that may be coming into our lives in the near future. I think I'll need 3 meals a day though, even if one is just veggie soup.
 

---

Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
Very well done to you all hanging in there! I've been AWOL with a visiting mother-in-law and a general lack of motivation/routine.

Had an upsetting morning at the dentist, so can't contemplate getting back on the wagon just yet, but hopefully soon...

EJ - off to snack now.
 

---

Posted by Nanny Ogg (# 1176) on :
 
Saw the health advisor on Tuesday and we went through my food diary. It had been a bad week and therefore included a lot of sweets and snacks and fatty comfort food, but she was pleased I had been honest.

We transcribes the diary onto an empty Eatwell Plate and compared. She then gave me advice as to where to make some changes. The main thing is to go ate my own speed otherwise I will get fed up and miserable and then give up.

It's now Saturday and whilst I'm managing OK I feel hungry from time to time. Then again, I feel less bloated and sluggish than normal I'm going back on Tuesday with a newly completed food diary to discuss. I'm also seeing someone at the gym on Tuesday morning to discuss the Heelers scheme my doctor has agreed I should start
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Weigh in tomorrow...not looking forward to it because I feel I have "stalled". Have kept to the plan, apart from Monday...but I feel bloated and fat. It's probably this cough-y cold-y bug, but still....bleaugghh...
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
I don't think an entire 10" pizza (crispy crust) + a slab of lemon drizzle cake will have helped my weight loss programme! *sigh*
 

---

Posted by Lucia (# 15201) on :
 
After a somewhat slack weekend of not really sticking to my 'Points' I was pleased to find I have still managed to knock off a couple of pounds overall in the last week. I suspect I may pay for my indiscretions with less weight loss this week. Anyway I am back on the wagon today and managed to resist the rather desperate temptation of almond croissants from the local patisserie bought by one of my colleagues for us all at coffee break. ( I LOVE those croissants so I feel quite virtuous at having managed to refuse!) Also turned down the offer of pizza at lunchtime and made myself a salad instead.
I feel these are both progress. One of the things I need to get over is feeling miffed when others are eating something I like but I'm not. I find this quite a struggle most of the time...Just got to keep reminding myself of my goal.

Also dug out an old exercise video and did a half hour workout on Saturday. My legs still ache! But I'm going to try adding in a workout at weekends on top of my 3 half hour walks each week as I think I need to get something a bit more aerobic into my programme. We will have to see if I can keep that up...

[ 04. February 2013, 13:39: Message edited by: Lucia ]
 

---

Posted by Lucia (# 15201) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dormouse:
I don't think an entire 10" pizza (crispy crust) + a slab of lemon drizzle cake will have helped my weight loss programme! *sigh*

---

No probably not, but sounds yummy!
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
A fast day here so breakfast of black coffee and I've just had some soup for lunch. I'm keeping myself occupied by decluttering (I've cleared and tidied my work and study cupboard, thrown out loads of sewing magazines and have 50 books in my trolley for the recycling bank). I've done my weekday aerobics too - a regular bit of exercise does make all the difference with weight loss, I find.
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I remain on a plateau - maybe I should try the 5:2 idea?

Hmmmmm - don't like the thought!


 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Me neither, Boogie. I'm not set up for fasting - if I don't get fed regularly*, I turn VERY pale and look/feel as if I might keel over at any moment! So, I think I'm better just trying to exercise more (eight VERY muddy miles on Saturday!) and keep off the calorie-dense stuff. NOT helped by someone giving me 4 large packets of honey-roast jumbo cashews I have had to hide them

Strange how different we all are, isn't it?

*I did once have to go to bed without dinner, and as I lay there feeling sorry for myself was horrified to realise how many people that would be normal for

Mrs. S, counting blessings as fast as she can
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Well, I have lost the 7oz I gained last week...put like that it doesnt sound very much to gain (or to loose) but at least it has gone.

I have the psychological 1 1/2lbs to shed to get to the "2 stone off" mark, shall focus of that, rather than anything else. (And after that I shall only have 1 1/2 stone to shed to get to goal, and an urgent conversation with an alteration tailor regarding some clothes!)
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
Well, I have lost the 7oz I gained last week...put like that it doesnt sound very much to gain (or to loose) but at least it has gone.

---

Little and often is good, St. E ... as long as you are heading in the right direction that's all that matters

Mrs. S, putting on her walking shoes
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Well, I've lost just under half a pound this week, better than nothing I suppose. More exercise perhaps?
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Heavenly Anarchist:
Well, I've lost just under half a pound this week, better than nothing I suppose. More exercise perhaps?

---

Well done - onwards and downwards!


 

---

Posted by Eleanor Jane (# 13102) on :
 
I lost about three pounds in about four days... but it was a hideous dose of food poisoning so I don't recommend it!

I'm nearly back onto normal diet again and hoping to ease back into healthy eating.

A bit comforted by the people admitting their comfort eating. I had a comforting Pieminster chicken pie for lunch.

Keep it up all!
 

---

Posted by Lucia (# 15201) on :
 
Urgh! Food poisoning is a horrid way to lose weight. Glad you are feeling better.
 

---

Posted by JoannaP (# 4493) on :
 
I seem to be going through a bout of ill-health, both physical and mental, and am self-medicating with carbs.

Counting WW pro-points will resume when I feel better. Honest.
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Oooh - Pieminster pies are very yummy...
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
A fast day today. I had a glass of white wine with my fishy stir fry instead of rice noodles priorities, heh?
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Last night one of my friends at band practice commented on how good I was looking - since she is an absolute stunner I was very flattered and caused a stir by revealing my total weight loss, to General Amazement (who he?)

Thank you Sharon!

And that has completely revived my flagging motivation so we address those last few pounds with renewed vigour and black coffee this morning

Originally quoted by St. E with a nod to EJ

quote:

---

Oooh - Pieminster pies are very yummy...

---

We once went to a wedding reception where dinner was a choice of Pieminister pies and mash, followed by a chocolate fountain
And we all had leftover pies to take home! what a success!

The Reminiscent Mrs. S
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
How lovely Mrs S A great confidence builder.
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Heavenly Anarchist:
How lovely Mrs S A great confidence builder.

---

Yes, thank you - you know it was all worthwhile, but it's still nice to have it validated by someone else


Mrs. S, who has been working in Business Controls for too long!
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
OK - I'm going to give the fast day lark a go. Just one day a week to start with.

Today's the day!
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
We're doing it too - Mondays and Fridays...should you want to know what we're eating, you can go to Blog 2 in my signature.
Tomorrow is egg for brekkie/ Dhal for main meal/ veggie soup for supper...I thought having the main meal midday might help "see us through" the day, but I think it's going to take a bit of experimentation, before we're happy with it.
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Thanks Dormouse - what a good idea to blog about it!

There are three problems I foresee.

1. Addictive 'hunger'.
2. Real hunger.
3. 'Making up' by overeating the next day.

I'm keeping a diary today and noting the times I feel 1. and 2. to help me on the way. I suspect tomorrow will be a day requiring higher willpower!
 

---

Posted by kankucho (# 14318) on :
 
I appear to have lost a stone (7 kg) in the first five weeks. Quite pleased with this actually.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Well done! I've lost about 10lbs
 

---

Posted by kankucho (# 14318) on :
 
Top tip: Breakfast for me is always 50g dry weight of whole-grain porridge now (190 cals), whether on fast day or not. Anything else just doesn't seem to stave off the hunger later on. I make it thick - with mostly water + a splash of skimmed milk - so I have to take time over eating it, which seems to make a difference to the degree of lingering satisfaction. Sweetener of choice is a teaspoon of agave syrup, which is low GI and adds less than 20 calories to the total.

On fast days I only vary the evening meal. Fish or chicken with a heap of veg, sometimes a mashed-potato-topped pie (see earlier post re this) or a favourite is a two-egg omelette with a dollop of low-fat cottage cheese mixed with the eggs and topped with a various combination of ham, mushrooms, peppers and onions.

[ 10. February 2013, 17:01: Message edited by: kankucho ]
 

---

Posted by kankucho (# 14318) on :
 
Low-fat cottage cheese also makes a very good salad dressing, I've found.
 

---

Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 
Shortly heading off for 5th consecutive night dining out in Paris. Plus we have social commitments tomorrow and the next evening. I can practically hear the scales whimpering from here.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by kankucho:
Top tip: Breakfast for me is always 50g dry weight of whole-grain porridge now (190 cals), whether on fast day or not. Anything else just doesn't seem to stave off the hunger later on. I make it thick - with mostly water + a splash of skimmed milk - so I have to take time over eating it, which seems to make a difference to the degree of lingering satisfaction. Sweetener of choice is a teaspoon of agave syrup, which is low GI and adds less than 20 calories to the total.

On fast days I only vary the evening meal. Fish or chicken with a heap of veg, sometimes a mashed-potato-topped pie (see earlier post re this) or a favourite is a two-egg omelette with a dollop of low-fat cottage cheese mixed with the eggs and topped with a various combination of ham, mushrooms, peppers and onions.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
Another 2lbs gone, which makes the total to date 2 stone and 1/2 lb. Very important, that 1/2 lb.

---

but not as important as the two stone, St. E!

The Congratulatory Mrs. S
 

---

Posted by Nenya (# 16427) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
revealing my total weight loss, to General Amazement (who he?)

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Nenya:
I'm trying to concentrate on attitude and frame of mind and not on numbers and weights.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:
I must find a way to replace the word 'diet' with 'nutrition' in my mental vocabulary!

---

Oddly enough, I was trying to work out a sensible version of Kate Moss's 'Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels' dictum. I need a motto, or a mantra, or something.

Suggestions on a postcard please!

Mrs. S, racking her brains (such as they are)
 

---

Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
I found. I got very headachey yesterday (fast day) and today I have been SO thirsty!! Otherwise, I didn't find it too difficult..I think we may stick with this 5:2 diety thing!
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Tuesday is one of my 500calorie days, as I am quite busy and don't generally miss eating - but Shrove Tuesday is not a good day to be fasting.

I made a batch of pancakes, but even a one-egg batter makes 9 pancakes. Luckily Mr RoS likes pancakes, and has immense capacity.
He had 3 mushroom-stuffed pancakes for lunch, and this evening had six with an orange and cointreau sauce.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I'm visiting relatives in Edinburgh for a couple of days and cannot do my usual fast or manage my calories so I'm taking some days off and fasting on Friday when I'm back home. But it isn't so bad as you can't snack at someone else's house. I can't do my daily aerobics either but a 4 hour walk around town today made up for it - especially the 287 steps up Sir Walter Scott's monument.

[ 12. February 2013, 23:10: Message buggered about with by: Heavenly Anarchist ]
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I found the 500 cal day on Sunday fine - and have had much less of the addictive 'hunger' since - hurrah! So goodbye Sunday lunch, hello veggie soup!


 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Boogie:
I found the 500 cal day on Sunday fine - and have had much less of the addictive 'hunger' since - hurrah! So goodbye Sunday lunch, hello veggie soup!

---

great stuff Boogie!

Mrs. S - bewailing the fact that giving up coffee doesn't save me any calories
 

---

Posted by JoannaP (# 4493) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by JoannaP:
I seem to be going through a bout of ill-health, both physical and mental, and am self-medicating with carbs.

---

And I lost 3 lb .

I do think I would find this weight loss thing easier if there was a clearer relationship between what I eat and what I weigh.
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by JoannaP:

quote:

---

Originally posted by JoannaP:
I seem to be going through a bout of ill-health, both physical and mental, and am self-medicating with carbs.

---

And I lost 3 lb .

I do think I would find this weight loss thing easier if there was a clearer relationship between what I eat and what I weigh.

---

Joanna, I do think there is a time lag between eating and its effect on your weight. I also think that is why so many people give up easily - they diet for three weeks, lose some weight, then they stop shedding pounds and get discouraged, whereas if they kept at it, in a week or so the weight would start to shift again.

I think that happens when people reach their target weight - for a while they can go back to eating the way they used to and it doesn't affect their weight, then suddenly - wham! and the weight piles back on again because they didn't adjust to their different food needs at a different weight.

That doesn't sound very encouraging but I think if you *know* that that's what happens, you have a better chance of keeping going.

YMMV, of course, but that seems to happen to me.

Mrs. S, wishing it was easier than it is!
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I've been away this week so no fasting or aerobics but so far the damage doesn't look too bad, probably just a pound which I'm hoping to knock back off when I fast on Monday.
 

---

Posted by Jengie Jon (# 273) on :
 
The latest research says there is a time lag. Basically you gain about half the amount you alter your eating by in the first little while but the rest takes up to two years to come through. So your weight fluctuation are partly a result of what you have eaten over the last two years as well as your current eating pattern.

Jengie
 

---

Posted by Tina (# 63) on :
 
May I join you? I've recently started going to the gym 2 or 3 times a week, and am about to start on sorting out my eating (after next weekend is over).

I'm not really up for the 2-fast-days-per-week thing, as I tend to get headachy and nauseous when I get really hungry, and also if I get really hungry, once I start eating I can't stop.

My current plan is to join Slimming World, firstly so there'll be some filling foods I can eat plenty of, and secondly so I don't have to count Every.Blessed.Thing I eat.
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Hi Tina, welcome to the madness. I'm also doing slimming world, not the while fast day thing.

I'm struggling to be motivated. I've lost a stone and a half since the summer, and while I could do with losing some more I've lost all motivation. I'm feeling and looking better than I did, and have to say didn't think I'd ever lose any, so am now lacking the motivation to keep going. Any ideas anybody? (Doesn't help that I am studying lots at the moment, and missing the chocolate motivation!)
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Welcome Tina
Surfing Madness, you have done amazingly well to lose that much! What motivated you to start dieting before? Perhaps you need to re-evaluate your reasons then and why you want to lose more now. That might help you set a new target.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Re: studying, I'm the opposite. When I study (I'm currently on the last module of a history degree) I'm less likely to eat as I shut myself away with my books/computer and am not lingering in the kitchen. I sustain myself with regular cups of tea and this gives me my breaks. Similarly when I am marking my students' essays. I think not having access to anything to nibble helps me. Drinking plenty also helps, ime.
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Heavenly Anarchist:

Surfing Madness, you have done amazingly well to lose that much! What motivated you to start dieting before? Perhaps you need to re-evaluate your reasons then and why you want to lose more now. That might help you set a new target.

---

That might be part of my problem. I started really because both my parents have high blood pressure, and mum has diabetes, so it was more preemptive as I don't want either of those things.
Also I want to be able to cycle further, but due to essay time pressure, am unlikely to get out for a long ride for a while.
 

---

Posted by Lucia (# 15201) on :
 
The last week I lost all will to diet (it was too cold and I was feeling fed up). I ate freely of various things I had been avoiding, yet somehow managed to end the week 0.8 lb lighter.

The next week is going to involve a four day stay in a hotel with an all inclusive deal. And I know from previous experience that the food is pretty good there and that much of the bar list is also included in the price. I only get to do this once a year so I think it might be "bye bye diet" for a few days! At least there is a swimming pool, perhaps I can undo a bit of the damage there?

[ 17. February 2013, 19:53: Message edited by: Lucia ]
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
And another 1lb off, which means I am headed in the right direction. But having decided I NEED a new pair of dark jeans, (because none of my other pairs fit, being either too big or too small) trying some on at New Look, Next and Matalan, I couldn't find a single pair that fit. In some stores I am apparently a UK18, while in others a UK16 is what I am. And don't even begin to think about length of leg....jeans come in 2 sorts, being too long and too short, irrespective of what it says on the label.

So I still feel obese, which I am no longer, being merely I weight. And I felt quite slender, until this morning.

Rant over, how's everyone else doing/feeling today?
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Pound off, have to remind myself slow and steady is the way to go, and just stick at it.
 

---

Posted by Jenny Ann (# 3131) on :
 
Well, here I am agai, after graduating from the thread 2 years ago.

Back on WW (though starting 14lb lighter than I did last time), wish me luck!

Goal is looking hot in beachwear by holiday in September.

jen
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Hi Jenny Ann
Well, I've maintained my weight despite the trip away so that's good. Need to keep my motivation up though, as breaks from the diet always knock my good intentions.
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Last night I met a friend who I've known over 15 years and in all that time he has been seriously overweight (obese is such a horrible word). He has lost 4 stone, since July 2012, and although he probably has the same again to lose it has made such a difference to him

He's using a modified Atkins regime*, very low in carbs - I did wonder if the fact that he is gluten-intolerant might have an effect there? And while I am no apologist for Atkins it did strike me that there is indeed a regimen for everyone and we need to work out our food plans accordingly.

*He got a dog, too! That might have helped ...

HA -

quote:

---

Need to keep my motivation up though, as breaks from the diet always knock my good intentions.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dormouse:
We've been fasting on the days when I am working at home. But next week this changes, as I'm out of the house working on Monday...I'm not sure if this will make a difference or not.

---

I prefer to have my 'fasting' days when I am going to be out of the house. It's much easier to avoid temptation & postpone eating if I am busy, and out of reach of my kitchen for several hours at a stretch.
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
A lot of people have said this, but I prefer the idea of being within reach of something healthy-ish if I get really wibbly from hunger...

I've been having three meals a day, on my fast days, but people seem to be saying two meals are better - with at least a 12 hour gap between eating. I'm not sure if I can do this but I thought I might give it a try on Fridays (when I'm home):
last meal on Thursday at 7.00 pm, breakfast at 8.00 am on Friday then nothing until dinner at 7.00 on Friday. Then back to normal on Saturday. We shall see. What do 5:2-ers here do?
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I eat lunch and dinner. It is supposed to aid fat burn off to have a longer gap between meals.
I think Mosley recommended breakfast and dinner as that was what he got along with.

[ 21. February 2013, 13:50: Message edited by: Heavenly Anarchist ]
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
I have a late breakfast - as late as will fit into my schedule for that day. It is a 'downsized' version of my usual porridge & fruit. My next meal is dinner, at our normal time, usually 6.30.
If I'm feeling hungry when I get home, it's still a couple of hours to dinner and a hot drink doesn't fill the gap I have a small portion of the balsamic-baked mediterranean vegetables that I cook in bulk and keep handy in the fridge - that's about 50calories worth and I adjust the calorie content of dinner accordingly.
The gaps between meals are: From the evening meal prior to the 'fast' day to breakfast, roughly 17 hrs. From breakfast to dinner on my fast day is 7-8 hours, and from dinner to breakfast the following day is about 15 hours.
 

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Posted by Jenny Ann (# 3131) on :
 
I thought about the fasting thing but as I suspect my migraines are at least partially triggered by blood sugar dips I don't think it's a good idea for me.

I'm on day 5 of Weight watchers, I have a set amount of points to spend and have found out this week that I'm really good at denying how calorie laden a lot of things are. My daily muffin and a coffee came to nearly two thirds of my daily points allowance, so that's a bit rubbish. I've treated myself to the coffee today and am going to look into some lower point muffins to make for weekends.

Breakfast on the whole is an issue. I don't like cereal and milk, not really into fruit but love cold buttered toast. I've been having porridge this week but as I've got to go for the 'express' stuff I think its empty calories and sugar (hungry again 2 hrs. later). I eat breakfast at work and facilities are limited. What does everyone else have for breakfast?

I'm struggling to use my whole point allowance (same thing happened last time as well) - my problem was never snacking or continually having 'bad' things, it was having splurge days, where I'd buy and eat huge amounts of food I just didn't need.

I cheated this morning and weighed myself, even though weigh in day is Monday. Reassuring to see a downward turn in my weight already - I'm on target even if I lose nothing else this week.

Jen
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Jen, I eat a fat-free yoghurt with 100 grams of nice muesli tipped into it bit by bit. And because it's Lent, and I'm not eating between meals, I eat my mid-morning apple then as well. Usually I'd have black coffee but as I'm off THAT for Lent as well *sigh* I'm drinking a lot of fruit tea. That lasts me till my salad at lunchtime.

I work well like that during the week - I bring all my food for the day with me, and eat it at pre-determined points of the day - but it is harder at weekends. Perpetual Lent would work well at helping with that!

Having said that - it's the church Ladies' Breakfast tomorrow morning and whether I opt for the Full English or the Continental, they will be equally bad for me! Still, I won't want any lunch either way ...

Mrs. S, picking muesli out of her keyboard
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I seldom breakfast, just a semi skinny latte on ordinary days and black coffee on fast days. If I do breakfast it is often a small portion of proper porridge and a touch of honey which fills me up for hours. Total fat free yoghurt is great with a healthy muesli for breakfast or with berries as a snack or dessert - my kids also love it.
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
I'm very boring, as I have the same thing for breakfast every single day...porridge made with skimmed milk in the microwave, with a chopped up banana and either a chopped up apple or some blueberries.
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
I'm very boring, as I have the same thing for breakfast every single day...porridge made with skimmed milk in the microwave, with a chopped up banana and either a chopped up apple or some blueberries.

---

Me too, every day, although I find blueberries a bit bland so replace them if I can with some tart homegrown blackcurrants or blackberries, freshly picked or from the freezer.
Or strawberries, in season, which are wonderfully low in calories
 

---

Posted by JoannaP (# 4493) on :
 
I find that having a boiled egg for breakfast lasts me through to lunch but I am not sure how feasible that is if you have breakfast at work. (The disadvantage is that I have to have dried fruit as well to compensate for the lack of fibre.)
 

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Posted by justlooking (# 12079) on :
 
I've now lost three inches from my bust, an amazing four and half inches from my waist and three and a bit inches from my hips. My waist is now into what the heart health people say is the 'safe' level for women - thirty one and a half inches or less.

Dress sizes have changed. When I was a girl a UK size 12 was 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips with a 2" increase for size 14, 16 etc. In my teens I was a size 12 and a 12-14 in my 20's and 30's. I'd gone up to a size 16-18 but I think this would be even bigger in 'old money'. I'm currently wearing my slimmer fitting size 16's and trying not to buy anything new until I can fit a size 14.
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by justlooking:
I've now lost three inches from my bust, an amazing four and half inches from my waist and three and a bit inches from my hips. My waist is now into what the heart health people say is the 'safe' level for women - thirty one and a half inches or less.

---

Excellent <gets tape measure out>

It's my third Sunday fast day today and I find that I'm enjoying them! I put a lot of effort into making the vegetable soup for my evening meal - it's becoming a sort of ceremony :0)

Tomorrow I'm going for an early morning swim - I'll either love it or hate it, we'll see!

[ 24. February 2013, 08:33: Message edited by: Boogie ]
 

---

Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
I wish I had kept a record of my measurements when I began, but I couldn't face the shock of realising what I had allowed myself to become...

Another 2 1/2 lbs off this week, so at least I am becoming smaller by the week. My cassock looks as though it was made for someone else...
 

---

Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Well done St. E - that's really great! You don't *have* to measure yourself - you can tell by your jeans size. Did you find some you were happy with, in the end?

I'm in the situation where I can now wear old clothes that were put away while I was too fat for them - which is lovely - but bras are the issue! I can't afford to keep buying a new set every time I drop a cup size, so I'm currently uncomfortable in ones that are too big. Never mind, it's a good problem to have.

Refusing to buy any new winter clothes, so am currently very bored and badly-fitted in my current wardrobe!

Mrs. S, hitching at her trousers
 

---

Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
I'm in the situation where I can now wear old clothes that were put away while I was too fat for them - which is lovely - but bras are the issue! I can't afford to keep buying a new set every time I drop a cup size, so I'm currently uncomfortable in ones that are too big.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:

Every time I went out I prayed that I didn't get run over & end up in hospital, but that kept me going for a while.

---

That thing about having your good undies on in case you get in an accident is a myth Remember, if ever the worst does happen, the medics are not going to *take* your clothes off you, they are going to get a big pair of scissors and *cut* your clothes off you. You really want to be wearing some manky lingerie that you don't care about losing.

(That said, someone I know was in a nasty skiing accident, and she said the first thing that went through her mind after hearing her knee pop was "have I got my good underwear on?")

/end of tangent
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
My sister collapsed with a clot in her lung when she was 21 and the paramedics cut of her boyfriend's mother's silk kaftan!
I usually lose Kg a week on 5:2 but I combine it with 20 mins low impact aerobics every weekday.
 

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Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
<accidents tangent> I was kneecapped by a horse at the age of 15 and refused to allow the A&E nurse to cut my jodhpurs off. I wanted to use them again.

I did, too. <\accidents tangent>

Last time I checked in to this thread it was Hosts and Admins Day, so I was a bit wary of posting about my progress. Last week I didn't really do any dieting because we were on holiday, but I weighed myself yesterday and discovered I was exactly the same weight as I was last time... I'm back to the 5:2 thing now and hoping to lose another half-stone or so by the end of March.

I do breakfast and dinner on fast days and miss out lunch. This is going to sound weird, but I've found one of the best ways to deal with the hunger pangs is to go to the gym just before normal lunchtime and do a workout. Probably not a good idea if you get migraines or are diabetic, though.
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I can see the workout helping, it would distract you from the hunger. Best time to exercise for weight loss too.
Most headaches whilst fasting are due to dehydration, it is easy to underestimate how much water is in our food. I always keep a glass of water nearby when fasting and sip regularly.
 

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Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
I suspect what the workout actually does is convince my body that I'm being chased by a tiger (or similar) and that now is not the time to be parsimonious with the emergency supplies... and breaking out some emergency supplies (= burning some fat) makes the hunger pangs go away.
 

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Posted by Freelance Monotheist (# 8990) on :
 
I'm doing the 2;5 thing and my fast days are Tuesdays & Thursdays. I started this week, so am a bit unsure if I'm eating 600 calories or if I'm consuming more. I have a late breakfast at about 11-12 of fruit juice (100 % fruit) and a medium bowl of porridge with raisins and brown sugar, then at about 4 (just before I start work) I have 2 small bananas, then, when I get in at 8.30/9 pm, I have a bowl of soup (Indian chicken with lentils and spinach, plus a handful of salad leaves plus chopped tomatoes with an olive oil, vinegar and mustard dressing, followed by a crispbread). It's way less than I usually eat, but just writing it down makes it seem like a lot!
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Freelance Monotheist:
I'm doing the 2;5 thing and my fast days are Tuesdays & Thursdays. I started this week, so am a bit unsure if I'm eating 600 calories or if I'm consuming more. I have a late breakfast at about 11-12 of fruit juice (100 % fruit) and a medium bowl of porridge with raisins and brown sugar, then at about 4 (just before I start work) I have 2 small bananas, then, when I get in at 8.30/9 pm, I have a bowl of soup (Indian chicken with lentils and spinach, plus a handful of salad leaves plus chopped tomatoes with an olive oil, vinegar and mustard dressing, followed by a crispbread). It's way less than I usually eat, but just writing it down makes it seem like a lot!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by justlooking:
I have a ripe avocado which needs to be eaten today..

---

No, it doesn't.

What do you want more? A guilty conscience for wasting an avocado, or a guilty conscience for being defeated by one?

Don't think you'll be wasting it if you don't eat it. It's just as much a waste if you put it in your stomach as it would be to put it in the bin.
(As I often tell myself, but not always successfully )

And surely one day more won't hurt?
 

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Posted by justlooking (# 12079) on :
 
Yes it does. Avocados go off quickly once they're fully ripe and they're too good for me to put in the bin. Some things I can bin without feeling wasteful but not something I buy specifically for all its vitamins, minerals and 'good' oils.
 

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Posted by Freelance Monotheist (# 8990) on :
 
Make guacamole & have it with tortilla crisps/pita bread/breadsticks/crudités the next day. That's what I'd do with it anyway!
 

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Posted by justlooking (# 12079) on :
 
Gaucamole is slime in a bowl as far as I'm concerned. I like avocado just as it comes, ripe but still firm and served in its skin or cut into slices with a drizzle of dressing. Since I kept within the 500 calories I'm not feeling 'defeated' by the avocado.

I sometimes succeed in eating nothing at all for 24 hours which feels more like a fast than concocting low-cal meals. From the TV programme on fasting I got the impression that eating nothing was the ideal but having about 500 cals was still a fast. An omelette, large salad and small bowl of fruit salad looked like a feast to the presenter who'd not eaten all day.

Today I'll be eating some grapes and bananas before they go soft, also poached salmon and spring greens.
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Finding it all Rather Difficult this week...hasn't been helped by having to be in places where lunch was provided (when it is more difficult to make wise food choices) or where the journey to get there made carrying a pre prepared lunch was problematic, so opting for food that was probably not wise...Key Lime Pie, anyone? And this virus seems to make me want to stuff my face because I'm so miserable with it...
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
My weight loss has plateaued over the last few week - I suspect my body has become used to my daily exercise regime. I'm too busy this week to sort it but next week I'm going to try alternating with a different workout to get my muscles working again and push myself a bit harder.
 

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Posted by North East Quine (# 13049) on :
 
Sigh... yesterday I was trying on satin bridesmaid dresses. I knew I was a size larger than the bride and the other adult bridesmaid, but it would appear I am a good two sizes larger. And satin stretched across an ample backside is not a good look. Back to MFP.

On the other hand - I'm going to be a bridesmaid!


[ 06. March 2013, 09:30: Message edited by: North East Quine ]
 

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Posted by Tina (# 63) on :
 
Well, I joined Slimming World last week. I've found some of the rules really annoying - prime example being that apples, strawberries, melon and pineapple are all 'superfree foods' which I'm allowed to eat as much as I like of. However, because I had them whizzed into a smoothie they suddenly become of no nutritional value and worth several 'Syns' . I resent spending my Syn allowance on perfectly healthy food instead of chocolate ...

(I suspect the idea is that if smoothies/juices were 'free' some people would knock back two litres a day of them, which would be a lot of calories, but for me they're just a more enjoyable and convenient way to get somewhere near the amount of fruit I'm supposed to have!)

So I found an eating plan online that I'm finding easier to manage. I don't think I'm going to stick with Slimming World long-term, but I went back for a weigh-in tonight and I've lost 2lb
 

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Posted by kankucho (# 14318) on :
 
Yesterday's weigh-in revealed that the 5:2 regime has caused me to shed 10 kilos in two months.

Feeling great (despite having spent today nibbling through a sackful of celery and leaves for vitamins and 20 calories) and have bought in a new supply of trousers after consigning all my 38- and 40-inch waisters to charity.
 

---

Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by kankucho:
Yesterday's weigh-in revealed that the 5:2 regime has caused me to shed 10 kilos in two months.

Feeling great (despite having spent today nibbling through a sackful of celery and leaves for vitamins and 20 calories) and have bought in a new supply of trousers after consigning all my 38- and 40-inch waisters to charity.

---

Inspiring!
 

---

Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
kankucho is things like that which remind me it is worth it. Well done.
 

---

Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Great news:)
 

---

Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
Go kankucho!

Meanwhile, as the result of a couple of slices of chocolate cake at the weekend (family party, rude to refuse, etc etc) I have gained three-quarters of a pound over the last week. I hope to have better progress to report next week... but we're going away to visit some foodie friends for the weekend (and to attend ANOTHER party) so it's going to be difficult sticking to the diet.

On a more positive note, I have started doing a new workout at the gym. I feel like I've just crawled out of the primeval slime after each session but it does seem to be making me fitter. So I'm losing inches, even though I'm not losing weight...
 

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Posted by kankucho (# 14318) on :
 
Thank you all. Tbh, I'm surprising myself. So far it's all been done with no conspicuous addiional exercise being done. I shall resume regular cycling later this month as the weather (hopefully) starts to pick up.

Keep going with your own endeavours, folks, and good luck!
 

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Posted by Lucia (# 15201) on :
 
I had a few bad weeks of feeling unmotivated, hotel stay with food, kids on school holidays so different routine etc but have got back to the diet this week and within just a few days seem to have undone the damage and got back to where I was. Just need to carry on now and get back to losing.
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
That's great kanchuko - I'm still disappointed with 5:2 weightloss - 200g this week, giving me a 1kg weight loss in three weeks! I'm not going mad on my non-fast days, so can't quite see where I'm going wrong. I can only assume it's because my week of bad backness meant that even my usual not-very-energetic-life was curtailed even more as I avoided moving wherever possible!
Let's hope for a better result in the next few weeks as I try to become slightly more energetic again (that is, a couple of walks a week)

[ 08. March 2013, 10:32: Message edited by: Dormouse ]
 

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Posted by kankucho (# 14318) on :
 
@ Jane: I don't know if this helps, but I refuse to jump on the scales at every opportunity to check the effects of short-term input and output. For me, once a month is enough to monitor overall progress.

Also, two years of regular cycling, while great for my general well-being, failed to shift any significant weight. My achievements to date are probably because taking the 5:2 regime seriously has given me the self-discipline to overcome some seriously bad eating habits: whole packets of biscuits, bought on the way in to work, polished off by lunchtime – that sort of thing. The sudden shift between two lifestyles probably accounts for my early good results.
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
After a poor week last week when I gained 1/2 lb, I have lost 2 1/2 lbs this week to get me back on course.

How's everyone else doing?
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I've last a stone in 7 weeks
 

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Posted by Jenny Ann (# 3131) on :
 
I'm down 8lbs since 18th Feb
 

---

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by Tina:
Well, I joined Slimming World last week. I've found some of the rules really annoying - prime example being that apples, strawberries, melon and pineapple are all 'superfree foods' which I'm allowed to eat as much as I like of. However, because I had them whizzed into a smoothie they suddenly become of no nutritional value and worth several 'Syns' . I resent spending my Syn allowance on perfectly healthy food instead of chocolate ...

---

Apparently, the more processed our food is the easier is it is for us to extract calories from it - so a whole raw carrot is better for you than a grated one *sigh*. Something to do with breaking down the cell walls, which we would otherwise need to expend calories to do. So they aren't *just* out to get you...

The Regretful Mrs. S
 

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Posted by justlooking (# 12079) on :
 
I'm cutting down on refined carbs but love crusty white bread, preferably warm from the oven. I buy those part-baked baguettes, bake one till nice and crispy then split it and scoop out the innards which probably halves the calories. I've then got crispy bread shells to fill with whatever - chopped up cherry tomatoes and olives heated through with some pasta sauce gloop from a jar is nice and easy.

In other news all my trousers are now unwearably loose so I'm going to buy some new ones in a smaller size.

[ 12. March 2013, 09:27: Message edited by: justlooking ]
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
What a great idea, another crusty bread lover here.
Congrats on the new trousers
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Congratulations on the new trousers...it's a good feeling, isn't it?

I have managed to find a pair of jeans yesterday that I like, and that make my legs look very very long, that are long enough in the leg that you can't see my ankles, and....the UK 16 was slightly too big, so I bought the UK 14. Which I am now wearing. (They are straight leg ones from Wallis, in case anyone is interested...)

Smug? Moi?
 

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

quote:

---

Originally posted by St Everild:
Congratulations on the new trousers...it's a good feeling, isn't it?

I have managed to find a pair of jeans yesterday that I like, and that make my legs look very very long, that are long enough in the leg that you can't see my ankles, and....the UK 16 was slightly too big, so I bought the UK 14. Which I am now wearing. (They are straight leg ones from Wallis, in case anyone is interested...)

Smug? Moi?

---

Yay St. E - that's just fantastic! Great news indeed! I think that brings you into the 'smaller than average' size range now

My black linen trousers that were (much) too tight
now fit me, but they are so baggy I feel like a clown in them - so my joy at the weight loss was tempered by the realisation that I'm now worse off in that I have NO black linen trousers I like *sigh* - not that I would want to wear them in this weather *deeper sigh*

Mrs. S, waiting for the sunshine ...
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Lost a kilo this week! I'm assuming that my meagre losses in the past couple of weeks were because of my enforced inactivity. Not that I'm that active normally, but I was very inactive...
 

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Posted by Freelance Monotheist (# 8990) on :
 
Finally got below that big round number that I've been stuck at for a month or so, due to over-indulging and being ill for most of January & February! I went for an hour's run a couple of weeks ago after a long time not doing so, and it was bliss! Cold to start with, but after 5-10 minutes I got warm and the endorphins kicked in and I felt like I could run forever! I hardly stopped at all, and that was due to having to let huge packs of cyclists pass! Even then I ran on the spot.
I'm definitely feeling like there's less of me to lug around and am looking forward to hitting that next target (the next 10 kilos off). It'll be easier to eat healthier (salads, raw fruit and veg, less stodge...) and do more as the weather will be better.
Well done everyone else on the trousers that are far too big & the weight loss, however small-I'm proudly celebrating my 300 grammes lost!
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
Still on a plateau here - but hardly surprising as my eating has been very erratic for one reason or another. Still keeping up the 5:2, which is probably all that's stopping the kilos creeping back on.
However, I must still be changing shape, as I took 3 pairs of baggy trousers to the charity shop yesterday - two hardly worn, and one with the swing-tag still attached.
Came back with a (slightly tight) pair of trousers and a dress.
Now I can find me-sized clothes in charity shops I've become addicted to clothes shopping.
 

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Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
I feel that this is going to be a bad week, stress with essay writing combined with a flat full of yummy food, is not good. At the moment I'm trying to think, I've done really well, just staying the same while I'm this stressed will be good.
 

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Posted by Freelance Monotheist (# 8990) on :
 
I officially Cannot Do Maths (TM)! I've actually lost 1.3 kilogrammes, not 300 grammes, like I first thought! I was at 80.2 when I last weighed myself in Jan, and am now 78.9!!!

 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Another 1/2 lbofff, to my surprise...I have defibately been doing too much snacking in between meals this past week. However, half a pound off is half a pound in the right direction, and today I went out in a coat I haven't worn for at least the past 7 years because it didn't fit...and now, it does!
Edited for predictive text...grr

[ 18. March 2013, 20:37: Message edited by: St Everild ]
 

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Posted by Little Miss Methodist (# 1000) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Roseofsharon:
Still on a plateau here - but hardly surprising as my eating has been very erratic for one reason or another. Still keeping up the 5:2, which is probably all that's stopping the kilos creeping back on.
However, I must still be changing shape, as I took 3 pairs of baggy trousers to the charity shop yesterday - two hardly worn, and one with the swing-tag still attached.
Came back with a (slightly tight) pair of trousers and a dress.
Now I can find me-sized clothes in charity shops I've become addicted to clothes shopping.

---

It has been my experience that I change shape most when i'm not losing any weight according to the scales. A few weeks ago I went through a mini plateau where my weight hardly changed at all for two weeks but I lost a couple of inches every where and went down a dress size in what felt like over night! Since then i've lost a couple of kilos, but my measurements remain the same...

It's a funny old thing weight loss.
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Is feeling slightly jaded and bored (although I have masses to do...) and is thinking about her dinner, which won't be happening until at least 8.30pm and probably nearer 9pm...I'm not actually hungry, but my teeth are bored...

Must remind myself that nothing will taste as good as being slim feels...although I'm not actually slim yet, being 14 lbs off the top of the scale for a healthy BMI...
 

---

Posted by JoannaP (# 4493) on :
 
At the moment I am just finding it very hard to motivate myself. When I weigh myself and see that I have crept up another 2lbs or find a skirt getting tight again, I resolve to do the WW thing properly - but then somebody brings cakes in at work or I feel the need for chocolate to get me through the afternoon and my good intentions count for naught
 

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Posted by Roseofsharon (# 9657) on :
 
I have decided to stop logging calories on My Fitness Pal.
I have been concentrating too much on the numbers and have slipped too far away from the goals of the DASH diet - and that has given me some health problems in the last few months.
I must stop thinking about weight loss, and concentrate on the health benefits I was originally working towards.
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Although my weight loss hasn't been huge I am thrilled to be sitting comfortably in jeans which were almost unbearably unwearable at Christmas. I have lost a fair bit of tummy (tho I fear I will always have a bit of an "apron" there!) and clothes feel better. 8 kg lost since September...actually, that's nearly 1.5 kg a month...not so shabby after all.
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Another week, another weight-in...and another 1lb gone, which means I have lost 2 st 7 and a 1/2 lbs. Smug? Me?? Well, yes...


How is everyone else doing on this chilly and snowy morning?
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Well done Dormouse and St Everild!
 

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Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
Our Atkins diet is successful: Z has gone from a size 20 to size 16 and I am but two pounds away from 14 stone! I lost more than a stone (14 pounds) this year and have kept it off. My former doctor who is now a professor thought I could lose a further fourteen pounds - another stone. I thought she was dreaming, but she was the top family practice D. O. in this country before she turned to teaching and I now think this is a real probability...

I was 173 pounds on our wedding day: could I be there again on our 35th anniversary the 10th of June? Dunno....
 

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Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
Congrats to all who post here.
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Congrats Sir K and spouse
My weight loss had plateau'd but has started again. Measured myself last night and had lost 5 inches (1 from bust and 2 each from waist and hips).
 

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Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
Are smaller tits good? I know that a smaller waist is. Likely my lovely bride will need a tummy tuck as she gained weight rapidly at the end of the last century...

[ 30. March 2013, 11:59: Message edited by: Sir Kevin ]
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
It is a nice balanced reduction in weight.
 

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Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
'Tis?
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Steady loss maintained, another 1 1/2 lbs off at weigh in today.

Now I suppose I shall have to start doing something sporty to get fit for the first time. This cold weather isn't helping much as I'm disinclined to do much out of doors, and jogging on the spot in the kitchen while waiting for the kettle to boil is loosing its appeal...

How are my fellow passengers doing today? Did you succumb to the lure of chocolate?
 

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Posted by Surfing Madness (# 11087) on :
 
Yesterday I ate lots of cake, and broke my toe, so exercise to help the process isn't going to happen for a few days! oh hum, time to start being good again!
 

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Posted by Lucia (# 15201) on :
 
Ouch! Broken toe sounds painful!

Having had a few weeks of not making much effort I am slowly losing a bit more. I tend to start off the week reasonably well, lose a pound or more but then creep up a bit again by the end of the following weekend. But as long as the final weight for the week is lower than the previous week I am at least moving in the right direction overall!
 

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Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :
 
I got rather podgy again over the course of the last 6months, a lot due to stressy finishing one job/starting another type things, it's time to cut out the pringles & eat better again.

However, I'm now walking to work, and sometimes between sites, and so I get starving mid way through the morning/afternoon.

What are peoples suggestions for fairly healthy and not calorie excessive snacks? (Raw carrot or celery are out as I don't like either). I do like dried fruit, but that's quite calorie heavy for the weight...
 

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Posted by PeteC (# 10422) on :
 
Lots of water and a head of iceberg lettuce worked for my wife some 30 years ago.

Unfortunately I detest both lettuce and celery.

Is it possible to port along a small container of salad for those mid-morning starvations. I am quite adept by now making a salad without lettuce.
 

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Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :
 
Are carrots a possibility - they are certainly tasty and I think they are fairly healthy.
 

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Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :
 
Lettuce is OK, though dull. Carrots are not OK - I just don't like 'em raw. (Cooked carrots are all right, provided they're casseroled to death with something else that hides the flavour). And cucumber is off too - it makes me belch, which isn't usually appreciated by anyone else!

So salad would work, although what to put in it so that it's not dull may be a challenge...
 

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Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 
It might be worth investigating celeriac. A slaw of that and raw cabbage? Fruit? Hard boiled egg?

I've been lunching the last few days on mini pittas, stuffed with leftovers from the w/end roasts, plus some moist enters, but no butter or marg - so lamb and tatziki, chicken and chutney.
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Now this might be a bit controversial (and it depends on how your hunger manifests itself) but how about nothing. Just an acceptance that you're hungry, but you'll eat again in 2/3 hours or whatever.

Before I started doing 5:2 I was "afraid" of being hungry & always had a snack with me to stave off the hunger pangs. But now, especially on "fast" days, I just acknowledge the hunger and carry on. Usually it comes & goes in waves anyway, and within 15 minutes or so of drinking water/tea I feel okay.

I used to be scared that I'd go all shakey and weak and flimsy - but it didn't happen. Yesterday I worked all day on coffee, fruit tea and a cuppa soup of 50 calories. We finally ate fish-and-ratatouille at about 7.45 pm. YMMV.
 

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Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 
Up to a point, Lord Copper. I have managed a near faint the odd time I've not eaten for protracted periods. It doesn't need much - a compromise might be those little bottles of fruit smoothie (or you can whizz up your own - just remember to include a good percentage of citrus to prevent browning).
 

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Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :
 
I take the point about doing nothing and accepting you'll eat in x hours. If I'm having a desk day, that's probably OK. However, I can't leave it too long, because I do go wobbly if I don't eat, and if I'm in the lab working with radioactivity, going all faint and wobbly is really not a good option!!
 

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Posted by Dormouse (# 5954) on :
 
Fairy 'nuff. You don't want to go wibbly with radio active stuff. Maybe a fruit smoothie is a good idea (though is that quite high in sugars?) A handful of nuts, perhaps? (although that doesn't seem like much to quell hunger) or a home made granola type bar with lots of seeds and stuff? Here are severl recipes from the good old BBC site!
 

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Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 
While on smoothies, do people have juicers? I actually consider it one of my favourite appliances, since the results are so marvellous.

The only reason I don't use it more is that you do have to rush the components to water and either rinse them off immediately or at least leave them to soak as dried-on fruit pulp could attach an elephant to the ceiling.
 

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Posted by Nanny Ogg (# 1176) on :
 
Well the low fat diet as recommended by the British Heart Foundation is having a positive effect on my body shape in that some clothes that were very uncomfortable now fit very comfortably

I'm losing fat and gaining muscle so the actual weight loss in kilograms/pounds is slow but muscle weighs more than fat (something some slimming clubs fail to take into account on their weigh-ins).

The health advisor has asked if she could make me a case study, especially as there has been a great improvement in my diabetes.

The course through the council is coming to an end soon but I'm hopeful I will be able to stick with it on my own, especially as I've rediscovered my taste buds!
 

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Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
I think I weigh around 14 stone now: shall find out tonight at our weight-loss club, That would mean a loss of about a stone and a half or more than 20 pounds since the first of the year! Atkins Diet is difficult and meat costs more than fruit, but it's worth it...

Motivation is strong: I don't want to look fat in my wetsuit if I go a surfing safari to San Diego later this month!
 

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

How are you guys doing now?

My weight is creeping back up - only a few pounds at the moment, but that's a Warning Sign to me.

My friend who lost 4 stone is in the same situation - she gave up alcohol, sweets and chocolate (without too many problems) but now there are no easy wins available, especially as she has given up smoking as well, and she is struggling to motivate herself to lose about the same again.

Long-Term Losers (sorry - that sounds awfully mean and I really don't intend it to!) all right, Long-Term Weight-Loss Experts - are there any useful mind-tips you can give us, please?

The unmotivated Mrs. S *sigh*
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Hey hey - jump to it Mrs. S!

I have jumped back to it after spending Easter in Heidelberg piling on the pounds due to fabulous food and beer!

Now I'm back on the 5:2 regime. I bought the ebook and that's helping me with motivation too. I find that the day after a fast day I feel great, which is giving me incentive to carry on. The fast days are still pretty hard to get through, but - as it becomes routine - I hope it'll get easier.

I make a tasty, spicy low-cal veg soup for main meal on fast days - that helps too.
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I wish I knew the solution to long term loss! I'm not regaining but seem to be rather stuck after 1 stone loss. But I think I need to kick the exercise back in, as it rather dropped off with some time away and then the Easter break. Hopefully the warmer weather will help with my activity.
Perhaps a review of the diet might show where the issue is? Sometimes after a while we relax and might be less cautious. I know my failings - beer and bread! The 5:2 at least means I'm guaranteed to reduce my calories over the week. The other thing is that we perhaps need less calories as we lose weight, with our body not needing to work as hard. Just my rambling thoughts though.
Boogie, i find the 5:2 very easy to adapt to, the calorie restriction means you know where you are and just grit your teeth. I find it also makes me think more about what I eat on the other days but without the guilt if I indulge.
 

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Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
The diet according to Dr. Atkins is the only thing that's worked for us: cut the carbs and lay off the beer...
 

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Posted by Little Miss Methodist (# 1000) on :
 
5:2 (or more realistically 4:3 for me) has worked well and provided pretty consistent weight loss for me over the last six months, 4.5 stone over all so far. I'm not at the point of maintaining yet, but what I've found works for keeping going consistently is not denying myself anything. If I want to eat junk on non fast days I do, but I log the calories religiously so I always know how much I've consumed over a week. I go for an average over the week and the fast days just seem to be the best way of ensuring that the deficit exists. I use MFP to log what I've eaten and I log it no matter how high or low the calorie amount might be.

I also try to do a reasonable amount of exercise, mostly so that I earn back more calories to eat! I cycle at least three times a week, sometimes more and average at about 30 miles a week, as well as walking. I've also done Aqua fit and recently went to the gym to try out the exercise equipment, so might start doing that as it feels like time to up the ante on the exercise front again. Doing the exercise means that I can eat more, and that works well for me too.

I think the best thing to do is to work with the way you work. I can live with fasting because it fits with the way I live my life generally, but also becau it means I can have maybe one day a week where I can indulge if I want to. Long term, that feels more sustainable for me, but what works for different people will vary hugely. I don't think it's an exact science or that there is an absolute right or wrong thing to do, you just have to work out what works best for you and go with that.
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Thanks guys for all the encouragement!

I don't think fasting is for me, because I need to be fed at regular intervals if I am to function correctly - it's genetic, my father and brother were/are just the same. So, I need to address all the little things that have crept back into my diet like an occasional hot-cross bun, or biscuit. After all, that's how I started out on this journey - addressing the small stuff, which All Adds Up.

And I need to keep at the exercise, as as least then I have muscles under the fat rather than just MORE fat!

You-all are a great comfort to me -

Mrs. S, jumping to it as per instructions from Boogie
 

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Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
Weighed myself in fear and trembling this morning after a rather indulgent Easter holiday, and the weight is still coming off!! Not very fast, I admit - I only lost about a pound and a half since before Easter - but at least we're going in the right direction.

The 5:2 diet seems to be working for me, but I think you're right, Intrepid Mrs S - it's not suitable for anyone who needs to maintain a constant level of blood sugar. Muscle is good though - the more muscle you have, the more calories you burn. Or so I've heard.

When I eventually reach my target weight I am planning to carry on weighing myself once a month, because I've noticed I tend to go back to the old bad habits after finishing a diet and not notice I'm putting on weight again until I'm one or two stones heavier than I ought to be and have all the weary work to do again. I'm also going to carry on exercising (not just for weight-related reasons; the stronger I am the less back pain I get) and probably fast for one day a week instead of two.
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Yes, when I reach target I also want to continue on a maintenance fast 1 day a week and the exercise bit is important as it keeps you feeling fit.
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
We all seem to be sticking with it...great news!

I stayed the same weight this week...which was no surprise as we'd been away for a week and I had drunk rather more wine than I usually do...plus the lure of the tea room was strong. I thought I had tracked, but it was a bit of a guesstimate, really. Scones are getting bigger!
Now I'm home and back in my usual routines, so hopefully this week will see a further reduction. And I have lost nearly 3 stone so far!!
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Well done!
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Well, thank you guys, the small stuff seems to have helped me to turn that corner (also all the walking, I expect!)

I'm sure we are all correct in wanting to persevere in maintenance - the key does seem to be long-term sustained effort, rather than the crash and burn diets so beloved of magazines...

Good luck and well done, one and all - we can ALL do it.

Mrs. S, looking to the long term
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Well, I finally lost a pound this week after a few weeks in a rut where I neither lost nor gained.I've kick started the exercise again and am feeling better already
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Hooray, well done HA!

A bit of sunshine and everyone feels better, does some exercise and gardening, and loses a pound or so - what's not to like?

Mrs. S, in solidarity (oh that this too solid flesh would melt!)
 

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Posted by St Everild (# 3626) on :
 
Another week, people! How are we all doing?

I have lost another 1 1/2 lbs, making a total weight loss so far of 40 lbs in total. I only have another 9 lbs to go before hitting the first of my "gold" weight targets.
I am now merely "overweight" rather than "obese". And I am buying lingerie in smaller sizes (and then shrinking out of it rather quickly, sigh.)
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Think I may now be on a downward trajectory rather than an upward one, albeit a v-e-r-y slow one!

Here's today's useful hint - don't use ch0c0l4t3 or any other variation on the c-word as your password! I choose something I'm thinking about, so I can remember it - but having that particular one all through Lent was NOT helpful!

(I've changed it now, so I can share that with you!)

Mrs. S, trying to think about something else
 

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Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
I am now down to 14 stone: my osteopath thinks that is a good level for me and I need no longer be a strict adherent to the Atkins Diet we have been following this year.


 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
Congratulations Sir Kevin

I've lost another pound this week.
 

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Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :