* 5'2'' or less * Group

by susanpaulsen on November 20th 2009 at 9:06 am

Great idea!  I will be working on a success of the day so I can post it!  What a positive way to look at my day!  Thanks! Susan
Ok..I'd like to add a non-fitness success if I may...I finished my graduate application to WPI University today!  :) 

by asaxygirl on November 20th 2009 at 7:32 pm

 What a wonderful idea!  My success today is finding this group.  I've been slowly letting all the weight I had lost return.  Today I decided enough is enough.  My head is in the right place, I have the tools I need, and I'm ready to get healthy!  Look forward to getting to know everyone! Ciao!
Mari

by barbara2705 on November 20th 2009 at 7:38 pm

Congratulations Susan! and welcome Asaxygirl!
I have another success:  although I was tired when I came back from work and already got comfy on the couch, I picked myself back up and walked 45 min with the dogs and covered 2.6 miles! ...that made me remain within my calorie goal for the day.  Cool.
 
By the way, here's the Website I use to track distances:  www.geodistance.com.

by ThickAnkles on November 20th 2009 at 10:39 pm

We are making Tourtiere Pies for the holiday season tonight and it is only Nov 20th - far ahead of schedule this year which means more time for working out when things get really crazy!!!!!  Have a great weekend everyone!

by Darweigh on November 19th 2009 at 5:22 pm

Cathy, this is hilarious and I don't mean to laugh but on a serious note, you really shouldn't worry about it anymore.  What's been done is done.  One thing I've learn in this journey is to just move on from those mistakes.  So just drink plenty of water and do some excercing and next time just get the bag instead of box. :)   Darline

by ZombiePinup on November 19th 2009 at 5:35 pm

Dont fret, this happens! If you didn't cut loose every once in a while you would forot what you are fighting for!

by barbara2705 on November 19th 2009 at 6:36 pm

...that happens to me with nuts.  Don't give me a can of nuts or it's gone in no time...!

by riskybizness02 on November 19th 2009 at 8:20 pm

 I had a similar day.... I had my day planned out, lunch made,  saw a homeless kid with a sign homeless and hungry.... I gave him my banana, and I turned around and went to taco bell bought him lunch and a chalupa for me, and thats when it started, I ate taco bell...  He was pleased to have a lunch when I delivered it to him...  and I inhaled my chalupa... and tonight my gramma bought me dinner.  A Denny's prime rib skillet, I ate the whole thing... I am so over my limit today by a ton of calories....  I can so relate to not knowing my limits..

by yword on November 20th 2009 at 8:42 am

Been there.  Done that.  I used to be able to consume an entire bag of candy pumpkins, easter bunny eggs, or what not in one evening.  Thankfully it's been years since I did that but I can still go overboard at times.  I actually have my husband hide sweets from me and then give me only small amounts every once in a while now.  It sounds silly but it helps.  I hope you get over your cold and start feeling better soon.

by fitfortheking on November 20th 2009 at 8:51 am

I have a "just say no" rule at the check out conter. It's so easy to pick up the junk that they crowd the registers with. I have learned that the best way for me to avoid is to not even have it as an option. If the line is long, I pick up a magazine and start reading for distraction. Only time I give in is when the craving is HUGE, which isn't that often. It took some practice but now I'm not even tempted at the register anymore.

by barbara2705 on November 19th 2009 at 11:16 am

Hey Susan!  Welcome to this Group
 
FYI:  Susan also finished her very first Half-Marathon last Sunday in Monterey in less than 2.5 hours! 

by southernroots on November 19th 2009 at 12:52 pm

welcome to the group!

by creativityshop on November 19th 2009 at 2:43 pm

Welcome!  Great job on the marathon.  Cathy

by susanpaulsen on November 19th 2009 at 4:41 pm

Thanks!!!

by dezzjay07 on November 20th 2009 at 7:12 am

Welcome!

by creativityshop on November 19th 2009 at 3:39 am

SW: 124
LW: 122.5
CW: 123
GW: 122.5
1 more week to go!  Then we are off to cookie season, that is the one that will get me.  I think I will need to set a harder goal to keep me in line.  Cathy

by duckzoom on November 19th 2009 at 4:23 am

SW: 127.6
LW: 125.4
CW: 124.4
GW: 124

If I can be at or under 124 for next week and then maintain through the weekend etc...I will be thrilled.  I am really happy with the progress I am FINALLY making.  Last weekend was a tough one for me too...really threw me off my game.  Back in the swing of things now though.
 

by Darweigh on November 19th 2009 at 4:48 am

SW: 133.8
LW: 132.4
CW: 131.6
GW: 127
Doesn't look like I'm gonna make my goal, but on the other hand, I've lost 2 bls and 1inch in my waist.  Yeah! Good luck ladies!

by anabolic-diet on November 19th 2009 at 6:31 am

SW: 92
LW: 91.6
CW: 90.8
GW: ? Build more muscle mass

by dezzjay07 on November 19th 2009 at 6:40 am

SW: 135.8
LW: 135.8
CW: 135.6
GW: 130...  one mor week...can't make it there... 

by allessandra on November 19th 2009 at 6:46 am

SW: 125
LW: 125
CW: 126.5
GW: 123
I had a great start going to the gym and weights for the past 2 weeks. Then my friend past away and I just go to work and eat candy for dinner.
I'll try again next week.
 

by duckzoom on November 19th 2009 at 7:15 am

allessandra - I am so sorry about your friend. Be gentle with yourself right now. You will get there. I went through the same thing in April. Taking long walks helps.

by maggiee on November 19th 2009 at 7:33 am

SW: 118
LW:  117
CW:  117.5
GW:  116
Hopefully just some extra sodium etc. caused the scale to go the wrong way :)  I will be late next week with the weigh in, I will be out of town until Sunday.

by Darweigh on November 19th 2009 at 8:06 am

Allessandra,
my condolences about your friend. 

by jen_ocelot on November 19th 2009 at 8:26 am

SW 118, LW 98, CW 114.6  GW 102  Very sorry for your loss., Allessandra.
 

by barbara2705 on November 19th 2009 at 8:41 am

SW: 110.8 (Sunday 11/15)
LW: don't remember, didn't weigh myself for a while
CW: 108.4
GW: stay below 110
Ultimate Goal: 105
I haven't participated in a weigh-in for quite a while and lost track.  But I've tried to just stay below 110, which is o.k. for me.  Now, I want to take it to the next level and go to 105 eventually while building some more muscles.  I need those to keep up running! Yay for the Turkey Trot next week!

by ZombiePinup on November 19th 2009 at 8:49 am

SW: 165
LW: 161
CW: 161
GW: 159
 
I was really bummed when I got on the scale this morning until I took my measurements. The scale LIES!!! I've lost an inch an a half on both my chest and my hips and an inch off my waist!!! HIIT rocks!

by ZombiePinup on November 19th 2009 at 8:51 am

SW: 165
LW: 161
CW: 161
GW: 159
 
I was really bummed when I got on the scale this morning until I took my measurements. The scale LIES!!! I've lost an inch an a half on both my chest and my hips and an inch off my waist!!! HIIT rocks!

by allysonleo on November 19th 2009 at 10:10 am

SW: 115
CW: 114
GW: 113
 
It's my Birthday!!!! I FINALLY have made progress (and it is TTOM)... such a nice birthday present! Now I have to get through this weekend and Thanksgiving. I'll be praying I have some control.  :)
 
This may be a lame question but what is "LW".... lowest weight? last weight? I'm not used to the lingo yet.

by eksotia on November 19th 2009 at 10:22 am

 SW: 114
CW: 110.8
GW: 109-111

by barbara2705 on November 19th 2009 at 11:18 am

Happy Birthday Allyson!!
SW: Starting Weight or Week
LW:  Last week or Last Week's weight
CW: Current Weight or Current Week's weight
GW: Goal Weight
UGW:  Ultimate Goal Weight
 
At least that's my understanding of our "Lingo"  :-)

by sjohn3663 on November 19th 2009 at 12:02 pm

SW: 110.5
CW: 112
GW: 110-111
It's getting away from me! Yikes. I confess I haven't been tracking, though. About to right now...

by Darweigh on November 19th 2009 at 1:19 pm

Happy Birthday Allyson
Great progress so far!

by yosefa on November 19th 2009 at 4:25 pm

SW: 122.4
LW: 121.6
CW: 121.0
GW: 120
 

by riskybizness02 on November 19th 2009 at 8:25 pm

SW  183.6
LW 176.2
CW  176.2   (0 gained , 0 lost)
GW  175.00 (for challenge..)

by msibilsky on November 20th 2009 at 4:10 am

SW: 123
LW: 121.5
CW: 120.5
GW: 120

by leslieeperez on November 20th 2009 at 7:01 am

SW:  133
LW:  131.6
CW:  131.0
GW:  127
 

by Darweigh on November 19th 2009 at 6:34 am

I generally don't know much about them, but I'm always down for a second opinion.  Since this the first time you did it, I would definitely go for a professional.
Darline

by allie0212 on November 19th 2009 at 11:36 am

It is true that the measurement is only as good as the person doing the measuring.  I'd get another opinion just to see.  He may be right on but you never know. 

by anabolic-diet on November 19th 2009 at 1:16 pm

Thanx gurlz - I think I'll do that.

by creativityshop on November 19th 2009 at 3:40 am

I will check that out thanks.  Sometimes the littlest things can make such a big difference.  Cathy

by ZombiePinup on November 19th 2009 at 5:41 pm

Babara,
This is really cool that youre taking an interest in this guys needs. It makes me feel really comforted that people on this site actually care for others who are struggling.

by barbara2705 on November 20th 2009 at 8:46 am

We all do what we can :-)
thanks.

by Darweigh on November 18th 2009 at 6:42 am

Thanks! Cathy.

by barbara2705 on November 18th 2009 at 9:38 am

I pledge to contribute a little more often again

by linnom on November 18th 2009 at 12:02 pm

I wish i wrote more! I just get so distracted. Well im a senior in college - whose got tips for those weekends with many drinks and all you want is pizzaaa after?!

by duckzoom on November 19th 2009 at 7:12 am

linnom -
I am with you on the weekends with too many drinks and bad bad food after. I just try not to do it too much, but if you do, I say drink a LOT of water and push yourself for the next couple of days to get some good workouts in. ...now if only I could follow that...

by dezzjay07 on November 17th 2009 at 6:18 pm

yes... our body loses some muscle mass when we don't use...   the more we use it the stronger and bigger it becomes, but that also depends on our food intake, of coursw if we are not eating enough to sustain growth, then we do lose some mass... and  esp. during weightloss... we lose fat, water as well as muscle mass...  going to the weight room really helps a lot in maintaining... but we do need to keep in mind, we need enough calories...  don't worry, you'll get your strength back... 

by jen_ocelot on November 16th 2009 at 12:03 pm

I'm a vegetarian so that eliminates turkey and gravy -- but to me the worst offenders are the potatoes and stuffing.  Any more than half a cup really starts adding up.  I usually bake an acorn squash with tamari, garlic, and a touch of maple syrup, and have cranberries with less sugar than they tell you to add.  And steamed kale. There are ways to reduce the amount of butter in various foods you make, or leave off the bacon and still have green beans.  When I used to eat 'normal' thanksgiving food I always felt stuffed after, and sleepy.  The apple raisin yog. salad sounds great.  I would just avoid dessert or have a smaller piece, maybe exercise a bit too.  But some people just love all the usual, and there's nothing wrong with having a special holiday where you deviate from the best of eating.

by yword on November 16th 2009 at 12:14 pm

I usually eyeball 4-6 ounces of turkey and then fill the rest of my plate with vegetables.  If the turkey is really dry or bland I'll put a tablespoon or two of gravy on it.  I try to stay away from mashed potatoes, stuffing, rolls, butter, deviled eggs, full fat dressed salads, etc...basically anything that looks like a ton of fat/sugar/calories was added to it.  Usually by filling my plate with turkey and vegetables I can avoid people feeling the need to comment on my eating habits since it still looks like I'm eating a lot even though I'm not eating a ton of calories like they are.  Then for dessert I'll have just the pumpkin pie filling but not eat the crust as long as I feel I can do it without offending the hostess.  I also drink plain water instead of cider or sodas or whatever else is being served.  We just bought a house and I'm hoping that by next year we can host Thanksgiving dinner ourselves so I can have more control over what is served. 

by yword on November 16th 2009 at 12:16 pm

Oh I also usually go for a run that morning and have a healthy snack a couple hours before dinner so I'm not famished and drooling over the bread bowl ;)

by Darweigh on November 16th 2009 at 12:37 pm

Allyson,
unfortunately, I am have no real advise in that department. Although, I am a vegetarian and don't eat turkey and am not a sweets person, and will not be having any pies or anything like that, I am a total glutton at thanksgiving. Because we are haitian, our meal includes our best rice dish(dried mushroom rice). I also load up on the mac&cheese pie and usually consume the whole fish that my sister makes for me, at least by the end of day. For me, I think my best bet is to just practice control. I know that mac&cheese is usually the one thing that I can't go without, so I will have to eat less, I had already planned to freeze the rest. I usually eat plenty of veggies, but will have to load up on more to make up for the foods that I will be controlling. Good luck to everyone that subject, by the way, because I know that day is usually so hard for everyone.

Darline

by southernroots on November 16th 2009 at 1:49 pm

Thanksgiving Advice:
My boyfriend made me watch the documentary "Thin" awhile back when I was getting. . . thin. Anyway, I remember this one part where the girl bursts out in the meeting, "I look back at 12 years and think,' what do I remember?  I remember sitting at tables, i remember going to Thanksgiving dinners with pre-packaged meals!" And she's sobbing this. 
<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/SGCpUtRyUG0&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/SGCpUtRyUG0&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>
So I say go, have fun, and remember portion sizes, drink lots of sparkling water/water/diet drinks and don't obsess to much.  If its only one day, your body will lose what it doesn't need.

by barbara2705 on November 16th 2009 at 3:05 pm

I'm also dreading Turkey dinner.  However, this is gonna be my plan:  leave out all the white stuff such as mashed potatoes, whipped cram, pies, etc.  And instead load up on the green beens, salads (with light dressing!) and white T meat (yeah, it's white but it's o.k. and keep you full). 
If you HAVE to have stuffing, gravy and the like, go for a run or a ride that morning and burn an extra 200 cals in order to make room for a helping of those goodies!  Just go with half of what you would usually put on your plate and double-load with the green items.
 
(I signed up for a 10K Turkey Trot Friday morning; that way I won't feel too guilty for dinner).
 

by yosefa on November 16th 2009 at 5:36 pm

Don't fret over Thanksgiving, this is supposed to be a fun holiday filled with seeing family, appreciating the things we have and taking time to enjoy. I like all the suggestions for making excercise a priority. Plan for a sweat session in the morning, eat a light and healthy breakfast so you aren't famished by dinner time. Eat the things you enjoy but only one helping in moderation. Listen to your body and stop eating when you're satisfied (something we should do anyway but always end up overeating during the holidays). And if the weather is nice, go for an afterdinner walk with a family member.  My cousin is coming in from out of town and I can't wait to get some time to spend catching up. Focus on those kind  things rather than the food.

by fitfortheking on November 16th 2009 at 5:50 pm

I agree with yosefa, enjoy your day. As long as you can keep things in order the days leading up to and after that one day, you will be fine. Personally, I will keep my normal workout routine all week (I work out 5-6 times a week) including Thanksgiving morning. At dinner, I approach it alot like I would a normal dinner, the leanest meat available, plenty of veggies and 1 carb/starch. I will decide to have either the mac and cheese OR the sweet potato casserole but not both as so many members of my family will be having. I will not have a roll or biscuit, if I can do without it any other day, then I can do without it that day. I will have one dessert, so I make sure to choose it wisely. I keep an eye on all portions, I drink only  water, and on Friday morning I will get up and go workout and eat clean the entire day. No stress required. 

by smokinokin on November 17th 2009 at 7:51 am

Work out hard the whole week, and then enjoy your TDay.  Have smaller portions of the carby things that you enjoy (mashed, stuffing, etc)  ...and then a normal sized portion of protein (turkey) and lots of veggies.  If you're going to enjoy the yummy dinner - then try to steer clear of any hors d'oeuvres and grazing throughout the day.  Get some of the guests to bundle up and go for a nice brisk walk outside while the turkey is cooking.  One roll or biscuit in my opion, won't break a diet.  Remember, it's a way of life and enjoying a nice dinner one night isn't going to be horrible.  Just have less of everything.  Have a half a biscuit maybe instead of a whole one.  And work out a lot that whole week, so you won't feel as guilty about everything.  Enjoy your Thanksgiving and remember - be thankful for the things you DO have....not what you don't have.  :)
Everyone, have a GREAT holiday!! 
 

by dezzjay07 on November 17th 2009 at 11:59 am

I love the keeping exercise advice before and after t-day... one more thing, keep munching healthy and low cal foods like vegies and fruits all day to keep metabolism going...  don't go to dinner starving...  just keep active and drink a lot of water all day long...  one day should not hurt esp. if you're going back to your healthy routine the next...  have fun and enjoy the holidays!

by jen_ocelot on November 16th 2009 at 12:09 pm

Pita bread with hummus and red peppers or romaine lettuce.  A big salad with tofu cubes or tempeh.  Veggieburgers are satisfying and some only have 90 cals (gardenburger veggiemedley).  The more vegetables you include in proportion to starches, grains, meats, the lower fat your diet will be.  Dinner -- see my above acorn squash it is divine.  You can make your favorite, or not favorite  veggies taste great with a touch of toasted sesame oil, garlic and tamari, a squeeze of lemon.  But, they gotta be fresh; canned taste gross in my opinion. 

by barbara2705 on November 16th 2009 at 3:15 pm

I often have super-plain stuff for dinner (or lunch).  Examples:
 
Can of Hearts of Palm with small can of tuna, 1tbsp olive oil and some vinegar, salt & pepper.  I like it chilled from the fridge.
=> fills you up and has few calories and lots of fiber.
 
Can of Artichoke Hearts (in water!) with cubed Canadian Bacon, olive oil, vinegar, salt & pepper
=> same as above
 
(Whole) bag of frozen broccholi florets (steems in the bag in 5 min) with some grated low fat cheese over it.  I also add some salt (I can't go low salt, I love salt).
=> Sometimes I eat a whole bag of broccholi until I feel like I'm exploding :-)  but it's super-low in calories, good for you and keeps you full for hours!
 
A whole pound (yes, a whole lb!) of fresh asparagus, steamed or cooked with a little bit of low-fat blue-cheese dressing to dip the tips.
=> fills you up like broccholi, has tons of fiber, but makes your pee smell yucky :-) 

by southernroots on November 17th 2009 at 11:57 am

I ate fat-free (basically) for a couple months.  Some of the women on here knew what I was eating back then.  My average daily fat was about 12grams a day.  I could probably write an entire recipe book of low-calorie meals (less than 100) that are fat free.  But this would be a very unhealthy thing to do.  My joints began to crack, I was irritable, my skin became dry and peeled, and a lot of other things.  With not enough fat, your body can't absorb other vitamins and nutrients.  If you eat enough protein though (like excessive amounts of protein, then your body will convert that into fat)... but I am not trying to get you to eat less fat.  I still have problems keeping my fat up.  I work very, very hard to make sure that I get at least 20 grams of fat a day for 4 days a week.
You want to eat fat free?  Vegetables, vegetables, vegetables.  And then start experimenting with spices-- all kinds of spices.

by dezzjay07 on November 17th 2009 at 12:09 pm

just a question, why are we scared of fat?   like southernroots said not getting enough fat is unhealthy...  besides, fat also help us feel fuller longer, bec it is digested slowly... eat healthy fat with tons of fiber...  and if you think you ate too much fatty food high fiber foods will help your body expel it by binding to it...  the body convert excess carbs, protein and fat into body fat...  so anything in excess is not good...  ike everyone said, high fiber food helps you eat less fatty food... i hope this helps

by eksotia on November 16th 2009 at 9:44 am

 yes, I often fluctuate between 2-3 lbs on my TTOM. I believe that is the case because I don't eat differently during my period.

by Sasha61687 on November 16th 2009 at 10:24 am

dont weight  yourself everyday, pick a day to weigh each week and weigh then. Wed are good days, your sodium intake also plays a role in water weight issues, weighing yourself everyday causes you to stress about every little oz,

by jen_ocelot on November 16th 2009 at 12:12 pm

Yes, every month I will gain about 4 lbs at that time.  I used to weigh every day but now about twice a week.  You get some happy surprises that way.  I have gained up to 6 lbs (and only have aimed for 17 lb loss so that's a lot) at tom.  So I don't weigh then, and just let it come and go.  It can take two more days for it to disappear.

by Darweigh on November 16th 2009 at 12:41 pm

Risky,
You wouldn't believe I was having the same dilemma, just last month.  Posting this question to the group, I found out that everyone goes through this.  I gained a full 3+bls during that time.  Then, the minute the menstruals showed up, the pounds seemed to have melted off over night.  Just continue to drink your water, which definitely helps, but then when that time comes, you will get rid of that extra bl.

by barbara2705 on November 16th 2009 at 2:59 pm

I've never really paid attention to what happened to my weight around TTOM.  However, this might explain why I was a couple of pounds higher this morning after running my first Half Marathon yesterday.  O.k., I did have some pasta yesterday evening, but I wasn't pigging out otherwise all weekend!  What a bummer it was looking at the scale this morning.  I'll see if my period (which is due any day) is the reason.  Crap.

by riskybizness02 on November 17th 2009 at 9:51 pm

 Thanks for the insite ladies... I was so excited seeing the 4 to 6 oz loss every day then Bam.. I gained just like that...  we'll see in a week!  water water and more water.... see if that is the trick.

by creativityshop on November 16th 2009 at 1:02 pm

Barbara glad to see you back here again.  Congrats on only being up 3lbs and the marathon.  Cathy

by mstone042 on November 16th 2009 at 4:47 pm

I live in Monterey and had several friends run the half marathon yesterday as well.  Congratulations on finishing!!

by barbara2705 on November 16th 2009 at 5:50 pm

thank you

by yword on November 17th 2009 at 10:03 am

Congratulations on your race!  I've done two half marathons now and several shorter races and have to say nothing beats the feeling of accomplishment I get crossing that finish line.  Don't worry about the 3 lbs...it's probably mostly the lean muscles in your legs you've built from all your training runs :)

by dezzjay07 on November 17th 2009 at 12:12 pm

Congratulations! 
 I'm hoping to be able to train properly for the disney princess half marathon...  anyone planning to run this?

by barbara2705 on November 17th 2009 at 12:58 pm

Where is it?  LA?
ETA:  never mind my question:  it's in Florida...not right around the corner for me ;-(

by creativityshop on November 16th 2009 at 1:05 pm

We are in the middle of a challenge that goes til Thanksgiving.  You are more than welcome to join us or if you want to wait til the day after Thanksgiving we will be starting another one that goes til Christmas.  You would state your beginning weight which is what you weighed that morning. Then state your goal weight that you want to be at the end of the challenge.  You are challenging yourself to lose X amount of pounds til the challenge ends.  Hope you can join us.  Cathy

by eksotia on November 15th 2009 at 3:09 pm

 Happy sunday, roots! I had great one until someone's reply post ruining my mood. Well then I'm off to bitch about it to my yoga instructor.

by anabolic-diet on November 15th 2009 at 7:47 pm

HEY! Welcome back roots. We've missed you around here. I've missed reading your posts. Happy Sunday to you to.

by creativityshop on November 16th 2009 at 1:07 pm

Welcome back and you are right that 125 is alot healthier than 144.  You always bring alot of great info to the group.  Cathy

by southernroots on November 16th 2009 at 1:57 pm

thank you guys! About that de-toxing thing.  I've been doing one recently involving chlorella and spirulina.  I noticed some weight (like 2 pounds) seemed to have disappeared into thin air and I wonder if it has anything to do with getting rid of toxin-weight???  I should also add that I am eating because I'm not in a point in my life where I can't not eat.

by eksotia on November 16th 2009 at 7:22 pm

it is good though, that now you can exercise with minimum pain, soon enough you will exercise pain free I hope. Did anyone guide you how to learn to squat or you figure it out yourself?

by southernroots on November 16th 2009 at 10:26 pm

 a chiropractor showed me how!  I kept falling down a lot doing it, but I finally found my balance.  I stand in front of the mirrors to make sure my posture is correct. . .

by eksotia on November 17th 2009 at 11:42 am

 that's just wonderful... me too I will always need someone to teach me first and then I can try to better myself on my own. Keep it up!

by riskybizness02 on November 16th 2009 at 9:28 am

 YES IS IT ANY WONDER WE ARE ALL ACTIVE MEMBERS!!!

by ThickAnkles on November 20th 2009 at 11:12 pm

I have always wanted to ask for 1/2 to be put into a takeaway container before hand and have never had the guts to do it so good for you!!! 
 
I have friends (they are in their fifties) and they always split their meals as a couple and it really works for them.  They find they just don't need to eat as much as they did when they were younger and restaurant portions are too big.

by allysonleo on November 13th 2009 at 7:54 am

I'd say definitely check the restaurant's menu online BEFORE you go. That way you know what you want before you arrive. Sometimes when we are with friends and they already order you can rush to order without completely thinking over what is in the entree. And have fun!!

by ZombiePinup on November 13th 2009 at 10:25 am

also dont be afraid to make special requests on how your food is prepared. (sometimes I even use the "Im allergic to..." excuse to make sure it doesn't include things I shouldn't be eating; a little white lie wont hurt anyone and will definately help limit your calorie intake)

by jen_ocelot on November 13th 2009 at 4:14 pm

Avoid pasta they load it with cream and such.  Salad, salad, salad is my acvice.  Restaurant food is loaded.  Good luck!

by eksotia on November 13th 2009 at 6:00 pm

 no bread, it's the killer. Especially when it's warm and fresh from the oven... yumm... you'll have more than you allow yourself to have.

by ZombiePinup on November 12th 2009 at 1:15 pm

I have actually tried the Master Cleanse, and it worked out ok for the first few days, but it was actually quite taxing.  I had to get up super early so my cleanse could clean out my system before work and I would wake up at night with horrible stomach cramps. After the second week I had ODd on lemon juice and my teeth got really sore (probably from the acidity). Plus when I came off of the cleans (after a few weeks) I actually gained 10 more pounds from when I started. I didn't feel any "cleaner" persay.  I felt tired, grumpy, sluggish, and I wasn't able to work out at all.
Personally, I wouldn't go as extreme as the Master Cleanse unless you are an experienced cleanser. Maybe stick with something easy on your system like a tea, or a raw foods diet for a few days.
After my experience I would say no all together.

by Darweigh on November 12th 2009 at 1:59 pm

Yosefa,
I too did the master cleansing, I lost some weight, don't know how much, I was trying to do it to loose some weight before my birthday that year, by the time I got to the date, I did look great.  However, I gained weight immediately afterwards.  I really don't know about those cleansers.  If you are concerned about detoxifying yourself though maybe you should do a colonics.  I hear they are great, and really flush out any build-up waste.

by eksotia on November 12th 2009 at 6:02 pm

 I did several cleansing in the past, once a year for 7-14 days in some small village retreat in Germany under doctors supervision. Mainly light exercises including yoga meditation and fasting avoiding solid for 7-14 days but had to drink plenty of liquid, water and fresh squeezed fruit juice. It probably cost a lot but my health insurance paid for almost everything except for the co-pay of EUR 9/day. 
 
I never had weight problems before pregnancy so it was not for weight loss but for health considering when I was single I partied harder than my long work hours, with alcohol and cigarette. After cleansing my skin condition improved greatly, my face cleared up from acne, and I felt great because of the daily exercise. I lost the weight during retreat but gain it back to normal weight when it's over. 
 
I couldn't do it now since I have a kid but when I go back to Germany I will definitely do it again every year.

by fitfortheking on November 12th 2009 at 6:16 pm

If you are eating clean, resting properly and getting exercise, your body will naturally "cleanse" itself. Save your money. Most of them don't do what they claim and those that do only have a temporary effect and some of them can actually be harmful and unhealthy, no matter what the box says.

by janet149 on November 15th 2009 at 6:56 am

I strongly agree with fitfortheking and i'm surprised that it took so long for someone to respond correctly. Any other pearls of wisdom FFTK?

by eksotia on November 15th 2009 at 2:33 pm

 some people agree some disagree it is personal choice I am insulted to be judged 'incorrect'
 
I don't know what's the problems if you ever lived abroad in Muslim or Hindhu countries fasting is a way of body detoxification and it's must to purify your soul AND your body.
 
I lived all my adult life in Germany and public health insurance pay for detoxification involving fasting and believe you me I see so much less obese in Europe where fasting is never considered a bad thing.
 
Even here in the united states if you get deeper into yoga practice, fasting is recommended.

by eksotia on November 15th 2009 at 2:34 pm

 you can't tell me hard core yogis are unhealthy. I just wont buy it.

by fitfortheking on November 15th 2009 at 4:34 pm

It is never my intention to offend anyone. I can only speak from my own experience and training as a fitness/ nutrition instructor and personal trainer. I have never traveled to Hindu or Muslim countries and I do not practice Yoga, so I can not speak to their health or nonhealth. What I do know is that the body is made to naturally take care of itself, especially when it comes to cleansing, and when we treat it properly through proper nutrition, exercise and rest, it will do just that. I also know that here in the US, when people talk about a cleanse or detox, it usually involves taking a couple of pills a day and/ or following some crazy diet like only drinking lemon juice for a week or more in an effort to rid the body of so called toxins. Again, when you are eating right and taking care of yourself, your body will have no problem cleansing itself on a daily basis. Nothing about drinking only lemon juice for days at a time is healthy. I am not saying that there are absolutely never a reason for fasting but it is usually for spiritual reasons, not physical. Physically, there is simply more natural and healthy ways to cleanse or detox than "fasting" or taking a cleansing product. Fruit, vegetables and plenty of water is all you need to cleanse yourself. Also, I agree that obesity is worse in the US than in Europe and there are many factors that contribute to this but, personally, I would not consider fasting or not fasting to be a contributing factor. 
 
I truly apologize for offending you but I would never advice anyone to fast or use a cleanser in an effort to detox themselves. I would say that if you are looking to cleanse you body, inside and out, follow a diet full of things I mentioned above-fruits, vegetables, lean proteins (if you eat meat), whole clean foods and drink plenty of water. Your skin will clear up, your hair and nails will be healthy and shiny and your body will shed fat long term and not just temporarily.

by eksotia on November 15th 2009 at 5:24 pm

No, you didn't offend me, it was Janet saying that you responded correctly which implied I didn't. I respect your opinion and still doesn't accept to be labeled wrong because I am not wrong.
I know where you come from, it is your personal choice to believe what is healthy. I have joined clubs which the trainers encouraged us to take supplements. I am against all kind of chemical, heck if I had the choice after surgery I would take marijuana instead of vicodine! I didn't express my opinion that they are 'wrong'. I just simply don't take the supplements, or fake sugar. I rather die sugar less than having my coffee with artificial sweetener because IMHO is toxic to your body.
 
What bothers me is if people dismiss right away the benefits of fasting. For me personally, I don't believe any method of diet that costs money, that's including gym membership. I am strongly against spending money on all kind of diet pills, laxative, fast slimming tea, acai berries or whatever else out there, even herbalife. But fasting doesn't cost anything and this tradition to keep people healthy for over 4000 years. Anyone who never practiced it and bad mouthing it, I find very ignorant.
 
The same ignorance of people (actually friends of mine) one who tried calorie counting and complaining to everybody who listens that it doesn't work. She didn't rationalize that drinking 20 pinacoladas on weekends cause her to stay fat! The other say this is not going to work, and he didn't even bother to try it.
 
I know people said the effect of cleansing is not long lasting, but what is? If you work your butt off working out 2 hrs a day for 6 months having the the weight of your dreams, and then you stop. What's gonna happen? Of course nothing  will last unless you maintain it. After you cleansed your body, you have the same effect as you have gastric bypass surgery, the first few weeks you can only eat very little and then gradually eat 'normal'. People who went through that kind of surgery or detox program and then eat everything under the sun when it's over, WILL NOT see long lasting result. It's just logical.
 
People who failed detox program are just the same like people who failed weight watcher, or calorie counting or jennycraig or P90X (the last one is me), because we don't pull it through. But I don't bad mouth P90X, or anyone who is willing to dedicate 2 hrs of their lives every single day for sweat. I just said it's not for me and I will not in any way to discourage others to try it just because I don't believe in it.
 
Fasting is not easy way out. It put your willpower to a test, and strengthen your mind to control your body. Have anyone tried to not eat for 14 days straight? I would fail when it's not in the clinic where people surround me also not eating. That's why most detox program in real life is not working, because you see people eating, food is addiction. Nobody needs the food we eat. We need very little, but we eat because it tastes good. It's the same reason why many alcoholics relapse.
 
My father is a general practitioner in Germany for over 35 years. He put a lot of patients to this kind of retreats implementing fasting, some lost weight and some got back their health or both.
 
I don't just 'believe' detox works. I KNOW it worked for me, and hundreds of my dad's patients and former colleagues in the company I used to work. Our company even gave us days off to go to this detox program because they believe it improved our health greatly. I will not stay quiet about this detox matter just because majority of this site believe otherwise. All we can do is staying civil and express our opinion without insulting others like janet.

by janet149 on November 16th 2009 at 3:59 am

OH! I am truly sorry .... I didn't mean to piss you off really.  And  to FFTK I'm so sorry to have put you in the position where you felt you had to defend your reply.
So I will rescind my "...correctly"  comment and say that  " It surprises me that only one person feels the same as I -and many others do....that a commercial cleanse simply is not necessary. Now as to how this becomes a dimissal of the benefits of fastingand that I have offended everyone in the past 4000 years ? ...well I think maybe you are being a little too sensitive .  Please consider that peoples comments are not always made with the tone that you may perceive. I try to give the benefit of the doubt. I am so sorry I posted on this blog  it was my first and it will be my last. I've never been to Germany and my reply was not meant to insult the country. My father was a lowly steelworker with ten children to feed and did not have the education that a GP would have had. Ya know what?  I'm pretty offended now so I'd better stop....

by eksotia on November 16th 2009 at 7:04 am

 apology accepted.

by fitfortheking on November 16th 2009 at 8:45 am

I hope and pray that as adults, we can all respect each other's opinions and sometimes that means we have to agree to disagree.@ Janet, I wish you would reconsider posting and being a part of the group. It usually isn't this serious...I promise.

by creativityshop on November 12th 2009 at 3:37 am

SW: 124
LW: 124
CW: 122.5
GW: 122.5
 

by acn6497 on November 12th 2009 at 5:23 am

I would love to join the challenge!!
SW:111
GW:105-107
My overall goal is to not to gain anything over the holiday!

by msibilsky on November 12th 2009 at 5:55 am

 SW: 123
CW: 121.5
GW: 120

by leslieeperez on November 12th 2009 at 5:59 am

SW:  133
LW:  133
CW:  131.6      -1.4
GW: 127
 
I got all my exercise in for the week, but I really didn't get right with my food until Monday.  I hope to do better next week.

by Darweigh on November 12th 2009 at 6:29 am

SW: 133.8 LW: 133.8 CW: 132.4 GW: 127 Didn't even think I was going to loose anything this week, so this is progress, so far.

by allessandra on November 12th 2009 at 6:37 am

SW: 125 LW:125 CW:125 GW:123 I think I hit my plateau!

by maggiee on November 12th 2009 at 6:38 am

LW  118
CW  117
GW 116
Yea, I got off my plateau!

by 25-2go on November 12th 2009 at 6:41 am

SW=150 LW=150 GW=146...TOTM..maybe I'll drop 2lbs by next thurs and meet my thanksgiving goal..

by anabolic-diet on November 12th 2009 at 7:22 am

SW: 92
CW: 91.6
GW: ? Build more muscle mass

by duckzoom on November 12th 2009 at 7:32 am

SW 127.6
LW 127.6
CW 125.2 (I had to weigh myself 3 times to make sure this was correct!!)
GW WAS 125 changing to 124

by riskybizness02 on November 12th 2009 at 7:39 am

SW:  183.4
CW:  176.2   (DOWN 7 PLUS SINCE 11/02!!!!!!!)
FINALLY, PROGRESS !!!! !!!! !!!!
GW :  145  (IF POSSIBLE!!)
 

by musicforoxygen on November 12th 2009 at 8:10 am

 SW: 134
CW: 132.7
GW: 131
YES! Oh man, for whatever reason dieting has been REALLY HARD for me lately. But this week, I really stuck to it, and it completely paid off. I have been visualizing my long-term goal body, and this is really helping me to say no to extra food. 

by linnom on November 12th 2009 at 8:30 am

SW - 132
CW- 131
GW- 129
i'm happy with that! considering how bad i cheated this weekend! :)

by ZombiePinup on November 12th 2009 at 9:49 am

SW: 165
LW: 165
CW: 161
GW: 159!!
I changed my goal weight because I didn't think I would actually be able to loose weight in such a short amount of time, but since I kicked ass this week Im thinking maybe I can finally get below 160!!!!

by dezzjay07 on November 12th 2009 at 9:50 am

Wow!  everyone is doing great! Here I am again, stuck on a weight probably for months, hope not, I really would like to reach my goal... as long as i don't gain weight, I'll be happy...  this is tough times, holidays and the stress...  great job girls!  you're all inspiration to me!
SW: 135.8
CW: 135.8
GW: 130

by yosefa on November 12th 2009 at 11:04 am

SW: 122.4
CW: 121.6
GW: 120
 
Going in the right direction! I've been a little over my calories on the weekend, but sometimes a little under during the week. So I guess it keeps things evened out. Good job everyone!

by eksotia on November 12th 2009 at 5:48 pm

 LW: 114
CW: 112.8
GW: 109-111

by sjohn3663 on November 13th 2009 at 7:23 am

I'm late!
LW: 110.5
CW: 111
GW: 110ish, maintenance.
Gotta tighten up! I think I'm starting my holiday splurging early, but I want to get through the holidays without a big setback. After a couple month hiatus for home projects, will resume at the gym next week.

by allysonleo on November 13th 2009 at 7:59 am

Good job everyone!!
SW: 115
CW: 115
GW: 112
 
I'm starting to feel like this isn't going to happen. I'm doing the vigorous P90X and I just changed my diet this week. I'm wondering if it is going to help. Oh, well.... it's a marathon not a sprint, right?

by janet149 on November 15th 2009 at 7:03 am

started 11-9-09 SW: 149.2
                             CW: 145
                             GW: 119
 No carb induction day no. 7

by meguchan on November 16th 2009 at 8:21 am

Hi-I'm late-!
SW-109
CW-106
GW-102

Ok I know that looks really small but It's a big deal to me and I cannot seem to make the scale budge at all. I need a little jump start!