Cheer OurSelves On!!! GO Diet GO Group

by lovetolaff66 on Feb 12, 2012 at 8:30 am

 lol. You sound like me MJ. I am SO rigid about my food when I am trying to follow a healthy food plan. I have to be extra careful because LS is only allotting me 851 calories. I exercise 450-500 calories a day and I was eating that too, but I keep being told if I keep doing that, I will gain weight. I think it is ok for you to eat a nice meal out occasionally. ESPECIALLY when you don't go over your calories! Maybe next time you (and I) can sit back and enjoy it (intead of feeling guilty and ruining the experience)!

by MJPeden on Feb 12, 2012 at 9:43 am

How can you only be allowed 851 calories?! I've always read women shouldn't go under 1200 calories; that we need that just to sustain.  Oh dieting, why must you be so complicated??
 

by lovetolaff66 on Feb 12, 2012 at 10:24 am

 That is what I thought too. But that is what LS is allotting me. I'm afraid that if I go over, I will gain weight! Do you have ANY idea how hard it is to stay under 851??!!! I have been dipping in to my exercise calories even though there are a lot of people on this site that say that if you do that you will gain weight. I can't wait to get this weight off so that I can eat like a semi-regular person again! I will definitely work HARD to never gain it back because I don't want to go through this torture again! I want your meal - guilt be damned! 

by lovetolaff66 on Feb 12, 2012 at 8:34 am

 Lis, Are you sure that you need to lose weight? Are you just small boned? Or are you just trying to lose weight to get rid of you "problem areas"? Have you tried strength training? Maybe if you tried to build up your upper body and touch and slimmed down your lower body a little bit, you would balance out. I have the same problem with bigger thighs than I would like. I am working on strength training (using the swiss ball and weights) and it seems to be helping. I am not a professional - just a thought.

by lovetolaff66 on Feb 12, 2012 at 8:25 am

 It is ok to slip. The important thing is to get back up and start over. I know for me, it is really hard, but once I do, I feel so good. I had a huge slip over the Holidays! I gained back 22 of 110lbs! yikes! I am back on track and only need to lose 10ish - not that I don't slip. Use the tools here. They make a difference!

by MaiseyDog on Feb 10, 2012 at 4:45 pm

Does she have a lot to loose or just a little? It could be muscle weight or water weight. Tell her not to be discouraged - if she stays consistent, the scale will get moving in the right directions. Eat lots of veges (not so much fruit) and drink lots of water.

by lovetolaff66 on Feb 11, 2012 at 6:12 am

 She only has 8-15 lbs depending on how she feels as she is losing. He main goal is to get fit. Her legs are already getting really hard. I guess because the scaled moved pretty quickly for me, we expected the same for her! We figured it was water weight for me, but why not for her too! I will suggest more veggies for her. Maybe more fiber in general. Her breakdown of carbs, protein, fat is a little bit off of th 50.30/20 but close. She drink more than the 8 glasses of water. I appreciate your input a whole lot. If you have anymore, I will take it!

by Etsme on Feb 10, 2012 at 6:34 am

Sounds good to me!  Thanks for the motivation Freyja

by rosemary1979 on Feb 7, 2012 at 12:25 pm

 WAY. TO. GO!!! What a huge achievement -- breaking "barriers" is always rewarding but getting down below 200 is something special. So proud of you over here, especially since you exercised five days! That really is very impressive, REALLY. As far as your trip goes, try not to be too anxious about it (stress causes weight gain, right?) and if you eat out a lot, remember to ask them to substitute the starch (corn, potatoes, fries) with an extra serving of the veggies. I do that ALL THE TIME. And I also try to just order salads add chicken or fish.  But in the end, even if you go up next week, you have the week after that and the week after that and the weeks after those to lose even more! Good job.

by lovetolaff66 on Feb 7, 2012 at 12:35 pm

 Congratulations Mgenta! You should be so very proud of yourself! Maybe, if you have access to a computer you could also check in here! I am new here but I am finding it very inspirational. Just to let you know that I started out at 231, lost 110llbs and have kept most of it off for almost 2 years. I fluctuate about 15 lbs - which isn't bad for having lost so much weight. I believe if you stick to this program you can do it. Have a great trip and enjoy yourself.

by Etsme on Feb 7, 2012 at 12:49 pm

WOOOHOOOO!!!!  Yes, Great Job!!!! 
Don't worry, you have developed a good base so I'm sure you will do well while you are away.  Just in case, here are a couple things to think about:
1) If you are eating out, eat only half the amount on your plate.  I know some people that ask their waiter for a carry out box and put half the portion in the box before they start eating. 
2) If you are staying at a hotel/motel, see if they have an exercise room.  If they don't they might offer discounts to local workout center/gym. 
3) Keep a bottle of water with you and drink as much as possible.  This not only helps keep you body flushed but helps to stave off hunger. 
4) If you are going to be in meetings, take healthy snacks with you like raisins, almonds, apple, etc... 
Good luck!

 

by shawn1222 on Feb 7, 2012 at 2:09 am

 Thanks for the kind welcome, Bethy87...My personal trainer recommended this website a week ago, Monday...I am really lovin' it; as I love to cook and I love creating my own healthy recipes. With the help of the tools on this website, I am sure to reach my weight loss and exercise goals. 
I look forward to getting support, advise and exchanging recipes with all of you.
Shawn :)

by Etsme on Feb 7, 2012 at 7:09 am

Well said Bethy! 
I too would like to wish everyone a very warm welcome to our group.   Best of luck on your weight loss journey, we are all here to help one another :-)

by rosemary1979 on Feb 7, 2012 at 12:27 pm

 I agree -- WELCOME EVERYONE! I've been flaking recently but I just haven't had the time to chat. Anyways, I hope all you newbies stick with us -- this is a great group.

by Etsme on Feb 7, 2012 at 7:42 am

Hi Lovetolaff,
The whole idea behind working out is to get your metabolism going.  The goal calorie count is a calculation of your age, height, activity level, current weight and the number of pounds you wish to lose in a given period of time.  (One thing to keep in mind is that the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends that women should Never drop below 1200 calories per day, men 1800 calories per day to lose weight.)  As you add weight, that calorie count will go up.  Conversely, as you lose weight, the calorie count will go down. 
 
As you exercise, you burn calories that your body has stored up, not the calories you consume today.  If you consistanly consume more than your recommended calorie intake while you work out, you might initially lose a little weight because you have increased your metabolism slightly.  But in the long run you will gain weight because you are eating more than your body can burn off over that given period of time.  
 
I know it is confusing.  I hope this helps clear it up a little. 

 

by lovetolaff66 on Feb 7, 2012 at 12:29 pm

 Hi Etsme,
Thank you so much for the information. It totally makes sense. I have two questions that maybe you can help me with.
1. It says for my height, weight, and age (and my desire to lose 1.5 lbs a week) that I should consume 857 calories a day. I have heard about the 1,200 calorie rule. But, if it is saying 857, won't I gain weight?
2. Why does the "calories remaining" add the exercise in? Do I need to just ignore that and stick to going for 1,200 calories, period? (This new twist stinks, because I am obsessed with trying to hit that number! lol)
If you have any information that helps me on that, I'd appreciate it!

by Etsme on Feb 7, 2012 at 1:17 pm

I don't know any of your stats,  but 857 calories a day is not much at all. 
Don't try to be too obsessed with hitting a certain calorie number.  Try to concentrate on keeping your food and exercise diary first.  That will give you a big insight into your eating and exercise habits.   You might see you will start losing weight just by being vigilant about eating properly (not too much carbs or fat), and exercising consistantly. 

by MaiseyDog on Feb 5, 2012 at 8:01 pm

Hi - I'm new, too and my main problem is eating too much. I have about 10 pounds to lose. The main thing that helps me is going to bed instead of staying up late and eating. When I get enough sleep it helps me avoid eating junk food to get an energy boost.

by shawn1222 on Feb 6, 2012 at 3:34 am

 Hi Girldistyrbed,
What a cute and funny AKA you have chosen for your profile name!  lol
I am also a newbie and just wanted to say hi...
I am also looking for the same...meeting new people who are addressing the same weight loss problems as me...and also to set up some personal goals...as I understand once committed to goals in writing you are most likely to achieve success.
Shawn  :0

by girldistyrbed on Feb 6, 2012 at 1:22 pm

 Hi girls, nice to meet you! Hopefully we can support each other thru this. I hear ya MasieDog, I'm a stay at home mom and am always able to munch :( But I'm getting better.  It really helps me to track my intake, never thought it would. But am amazed at how fast things add up. But midnight comes and theres that damn cereal. I'd get rid of it  but the kids need breakfast, lol. 
Thank you Shawn1222, I've uesed this name for everything on the web forever, lol, it has now become me. You never said how much lbs you want to lose but when I started out on my weight loss journey almost 4 yrs ago I weighed 180. Now thats a lot of extra weight when you're only 5'3. But with alot of hard work I was able to actually get myself down to 115, yeah, i've put back on bout 12 so now I'd just be happy losing 5. I chack it all up to having a lot going on in the last yr. Got engaged moved 1500 miles and am starting all over. Finally got a new membership at a new gym. We just got to stay positive and it will happen.  :)

by shawn1222 on Feb 7, 2012 at 2:18 am

 Thanks for the friends request, girrldistyrbed...I do look forward to supporting each other in reaching our weight goals...I have a long way to go in comparison to you...but yes I agree a positive attitude is a start
Congrrats on your weight loss...65 pounds is awesome!!  Maybe you could share some of your experiences with me...such as your recipes; And what is the length of time I could expect to loose that much weight?...
Shawn :)

by MaiseyDog on Feb 5, 2012 at 8:11 pm

I can sure relate to the self sabotaging thing. It's obviously not your fault your trainer went psycho on you and you've already proven that you can accomplish great things. But this time you are ready to do what's best for you because you are strong, capable, and you deserve it. You deserve to feel strong, healthy, and happy. And if anyone wants to send negative vibs your way, you can shake them off because that does not have to be your reality.
I was just learning about addictions (and I can relate because I am a food addict - but I'm not saying that you are). When you start participating in an addiction, the logical part of the brain turns off and the pleasure-seeking part of the brain takes control. The pleasure-seeking part wants to do what feels good right now and it's hard to get control of. So I'm trying to keep my logical brain as the one in charge. Log my food - eat the right food in the right amounts. Stay away from trigger foods.
Anyway, you are sure to be successful this time. You are not destined to continue on the yoyo. You can and will achieve your goals.
Piper

by MaiseyDog on Feb 5, 2012 at 8:15 pm

You're doing great staying on track with your calories. I agree that you should not try to take them down farther. I haven't looked at your food tracking, but I'm assuming you're eating the right proportions of protein, carbs, and fats. My mom had been trying to lose the same 5 pounds for years and when she started eating more protein, the weight came off. Plus she started weight training. She's turning 79 next week :)

by tb2012 on Feb 4, 2012 at 6:34 am

 thanks for your positive energy!  this group is wonderful.  hope you get as much out of it as I have.  good luck to you!

by MaiseyDog on Feb 5, 2012 at 8:17 pm

It's great to have you here, Shannon! Measuring inches is a great way to track your progress.

by MaiseyDog on Feb 5, 2012 at 8:20 pm

Hi Becca - wow - you have made great progress in losing your 45 pounds of baby weight! Nutrition is the hard part for me, too, but there are so many with the same struggle at least we know we're not alone. Be sure to track all of the food you eat and plan healthy meals. You have A LOT going on in your life, but you've got to put yourself and your health first or you won't have the health and energy to take care of the people who need you.
Piper

by Etsme on Feb 2, 2012 at 12:32 pm

Hi Erin,  Welcome!!  You've come to the right place for motivation and support.  It sounds like you are off to a good start :-) 
 
Good luck on your continued weight loss! 

by MaiseyDog on Feb 5, 2012 at 7:58 pm

Erin,
Wow - that is great progress! Just stay consistent on your nutrition and exercise and you will get there.

by efraasman on Feb 7, 2012 at 11:48 am

Thank you so much.  I am getting a little discouraged bc it feels like they pounds rolled off at the begining and now I keep going up a pound down a pound.  Kind of discouraging but trying to keep my head up.
 

by hipmamac on Feb 2, 2012 at 7:15 am

Sorry for the tardiness.   I am looking a switching departments at work, and my accounting skills were not up to testing so I am re-taking a course (actually 2 courses) ...cause my life is not busy enough LOL!  I more week to go!!  Let's make the February 9th Weigh in count!!
 
 

by Etsme on Feb 2, 2012 at 9:25 am

WooHoo, Great Job Everyone!!! 
Maybe next week I will be off this plateau and give it a serious last run ;-)
Carolyn, If I had the choice between getting my teeth pulled and takeing an accounting class, I'd head to the dentist in a heart beat!!!   My hat is off to you with all you are  doing. 
 
Best of luck in your new department switch!
 

by Mgenta13 on Jan 31, 2012 at 7:54 pm

We all dip in and out sometimes...just stay focused and you'll reach your goals.
 
Welcome back!

by rosemary1979 on Jan 31, 2012 at 10:59 am

 Congratulations! Can't wait to see you back here once baby is born; good luck and great health to you and your child. How VERY EXCITING!

by skinnursemandee on Jan 31, 2012 at 5:55 pm

Congrats! I used the website while pregnant to help stay in calorie range and not give in to pregnancy binges.

by jengirl163 on Feb 1, 2012 at 12:10 pm

thanks ladies.  I hope to increase my exersize to targets light weight training. I read that it really helps with carrying the extra baby weight and with delivery. I reaaally hope thats true because labor freaks me out and I have a low threshold for pain.
Now.. if I can get past the financial anxiety of it all I should be fine!
Keep up all the hard work people! 

by hipmamac on Feb 2, 2012 at 7:17 am

Congratulations!!!  Wising you a wonderful pregnancy

by pebble222 on Jan 31, 2012 at 7:43 am

Sweet! Nice job, lady.

by dietingdeb on Jan 31, 2012 at 7:47 am

congratulations!!!  that is great!

by jengirl163 on Jan 31, 2012 at 10:10 am

YEY! awesome!

by rosemary1979 on Jan 31, 2012 at 11:00 am

 Way to go! I wish I could start seeing the inches melting off -- can't wait to be in that club!

by Etsme on Jan 30, 2012 at 7:08 am

You know, we all do this every once in a while.  The important fact is that you recognize your mistake and learn from it. 
 
Just pick yourself up and get back on track.  Today is a new day.  Get in a good cardio workout and accept what ever the scale tells you. 

by tb2012 on Jan 28, 2012 at 3:18 am

welcome, and good luck!  i'm so glad that i found this site, app,  and online community.  it's all helped me so much.  hope it does the same for you!

by nikki-j-77 on Jan 28, 2012 at 3:21 pm

thank you...

by Etsme on Jan 30, 2012 at 7:09 am

Welcome Nikki-J-77!  You've found a good group to help you along your journey :-)

by bethy87 on Jan 25, 2012 at 10:34 am

sometimes it takes some of us a little longer to lose weight........track everything that goes in your mouth. Are you consuming to much sodium? Could cause water retention. use a heart rate monitor when you workout so you really know how many calories you are burning. If you are eating back the calories you work out and not losing weight then maybe you shouldn't eat those calories back. I know this sounds nuts but you may not be eating ENOUGH calories....are you hungry during the day? Lots of info there but maybe one of these can help you or you can try all and see what helps!! Keep at it!! YOU WILL GET THERE!!!

by jengirl163 on Jan 25, 2012 at 10:41 am

I think the fact that adding activity (thus increasing the amount of available calories to consume) is confusing a lot of people. If you have a daily goal of 1250 calories and you burn 500 calories you shouldn't consume 1750 calories for the day. That will keep your weight where it is (or for some increase weight).  The goal is to see that net as low as possible. 

Never consume less than 1200 calories a day (talk to your Dr if you do) and try to give yourself a flexible window (say 1250-1450 calories a day) to consume while you stick to your workout. You should see the results you want. Exactly what your Dr said (1200 calorie goal with minimal workout) is what I've been doing and I've lost 8 lbs in about 3 weeks. 

by rosemary1979 on Jan 25, 2012 at 11:29 am

I agree with bethy and jen -- I've lost only a little bit of weight that I think is because I started drinking more water (so my body doesn't hold on to it like it used to). But a pair of pants felt a little looser yesterday so I feel like I'm making progress. I'm confident that given time, I'll start to lose and lean out. Stick with it is all I can say!

by Mgenta13 on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:30 pm

I'm running into the same problem, like another user suggested try drinking a lot of water. I tend to have a higer sodium intake so this I'm sure will be really important for me.

by nikki-j-77 on Jan 28, 2012 at 9:04 pm

i agree with Jen..u have to stay at ur cal intake even if u workout and burn lets say 300 cal u sill have to stay at the recommended cal intake be4 exercise... it sucks..

by freyja5683 on Jan 24, 2012 at 7:46 am

Some weeks you  just won't lose, doesn't mean that you are not changing your body. I have had stellar weeks where I worked out well and was under my calorie goals and drank plenty of water and gained. It happens, do not get discouraged. Keep doing what you are doing your body is changing in good ways I am sure even if the scale does not say so.

by jengirl163 on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:18 am

Don't stress Mgenta... There are so many reason to factor in the weight on the scale. You may be retaining water, you may be building muscles (which weighs more than fat). You have probably leaned out a little and don't even realize.  Keep up with what you are doing. You will see the scale move in the direction that you want. Remember the scale is not your only tool to measure your progress. Think about it... Do your clothes fit differently? Do you have more energy? Can you do things a little faster than before? Those changes are all signs of your progress. Remember to celebrate those things just as much as you celebrate the number on the scale going in the direction that you want it to.

by bethy87 on Jan 25, 2012 at 10:36 am

I agree with the ladies above me! My dad has been battling shingles since about June last year! I hope you caught it fast !!! I hope you get better soon!!!

by rosemary1979 on Jan 25, 2012 at 11:25 am

I agree with the gals above -- I have barely lost any weight, really but yesterday, a pair of pants that I wear frequently felt a little looser than before. I don't think I've lost inches or much more weight, but at least I feel better! I hope the shingles go away soon.

by Mgenta13 on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:28 pm

Thanks all! Yeah I'm just going to keep at it.
 
I'm trying to drink a little more water too because I notice to have a slightly high sodium intake...

by nikki-j-77 on Jan 28, 2012 at 8:58 pm

i agree with Jen..u have to stay at ur cal intake even if u workout and burn lets say 300 cal u sill have to stay at the recommended cal intake be4 exercise... it sucks...

by rosemary1979 on Jan 23, 2012 at 9:35 am

How do I get in on this? What info do I need to send and when?

by Etsme on Jan 23, 2012 at 9:35 am

LOL!  Catch me if you Can!!!! 

by Etsme on Jan 23, 2012 at 5:24 pm

Hi Rosemary,  Usually we send our current weight, goal weight, goal exercise, and goal water consumption to Carolyn (Hipmamac).  I think the current challenge will be ending in a week or two, but send a message to Carolyn to make sure.  There will probably another challenge when this one ends.
 

by rosemary1979 on Jan 25, 2012 at 10:43 am

Thanks for the info! If it's going to end soon, I won't bother but many congrats to everyone's progress!

by bethy87 on Jan 24, 2012 at 9:43 am

great job!

by ggschaef5760 on Jan 20, 2012 at 10:44 am

I feel like this constantly.  I will tell you what I have noticed over the years.  When I am not counting calories and logging the miles I walk, the days just fly by and before you know it, it's the end of the year and I have not accomplished my goals. When I slow down and track my progress I am more "aware" and "in the moment" of reaching my goals.  So my advice to you, is to be "In the Moment".  Look at the days of waiting for results as becoming "aware" of what needs to be done each and everyday to accomplish your goal. The mindless days of not counting calories or tracking your exercise are behind you.  You are now enlightened by what it takes to achieve the  results you want for yourself.  Sometines it's hard, sometimes the day is tooooo long, sometimes you're hungry all day.  It's going to pass and before you know it, it will be the end of the year.  My goal is to walk 100 miles per month.  I am planning on walking the extra pounds off as well as watching my caloric intake.  Now, 100 miles is too large a goal for me to comprehend, so I break it down to the number of miles I need to walk today to reach 100 miles in 31 days.  Let me tell you, after walking on the treadmill and watching the calories tick by slowly, I am well aware of what it takes to walk off 100 calories.   I read something awhile back that changed the way I think.  It said to look forward 5 years from now, "What would you like to say to yourself?"  Would you say thanks for working hard, and creating a healthier lifestyle for yourself?  So I put this statement into a plan.  In June I will be 52 years old.  My first  goal weight is 145 by my birthday.  What is 52 year Glenda going to say to me?  I plan on saying, "Thanks for walking 100 miles per month and getting to your goal of 145, you haven't been at this weight in 5 years." Be patient you can't get today back, there are no do-overs, so be the best you can be today.  What will JenGirl163 of January 2012, say to JenGirl163 in June 2012?

by samaral7 on Jan 20, 2012 at 12:25 pm

I feel like that quite often. It's tough to be patient but you have to be. Keep it up and the results will come. I try and remind myself that I didn't gain the weight overnight and guess what it won't go away overnight either. It's a struggle but you have to keep things in perspective and create a program that you can live with not just a quick fix to drop the weight.

by rosemary1979 on Jan 20, 2012 at 6:58 pm

I feel like this every day and the way I cope is just by obsessing over this website. Everyone in the groups are so nice and encouraging -- it REALLY helps me. Also, I've been a little neurotic at home the last few days (didn't want beers last night) and my husband kind of snapped at me. He said, "Listen, you're counting calories, watching what you eat, and working out for the first time in who knows how long... you're GOING TO LOSE WEIGHT!" LOL So, I'm letting him yell at me about it and even though the progress is slow, I have confidence that it will pick up soon. Or not. If I lose a pound or two a week, that's a LOT of weight in a few months. Just gotta stick with it.

by Mgenta13 on Jan 21, 2012 at 6:49 pm

When I'm in those moments of weakness, I think about those moments of disappointment- in the fitting room, looking at pictures of myself, feeling uncomfortable around other people...and then I think back to when I was physically fit and how freeing it was- I never thought twice about going in a fitting room, I loved taking pictures, and I was so much more confident in myself/presence. The last thought in particular keeps me going when I'm working out and I'm tired- I really CONCENTRATE on how much better I will feel and how nice it will be to look in the mirror and be like damn I'm REALLY hot...(I'm hot now...but you REALLY hot...hey thats something lol)
 
Like someone else said too, I find this website to be a good place for support to, just reading through everyone's elses posts helps to keep me going.

by jengirl163 on Jan 19, 2012 at 10:13 am

congrats!!!  That is a real accomplishment! I hope to be right behind you earning the same bragging rights! I am only 3 days in with the group and I have to say it really has helped knowing I can - like you said - stay honest and encouraged!
WHOOOHOOO! Three cheers for you!

by bethy87 on Jan 19, 2012 at 2:24 pm

Wonderful job Etsme!!!!!!! That is such a thing to be proud about!! keep it up! You have came half-way so you can go for the long run!!!

by rosemary1979 on Jan 19, 2012 at 4:12 pm

What a great accomplishment! You go! And keep visiting the group to keep us encouraged. :D

by freyja5683 on Jan 20, 2012 at 12:58 pm

OMG Etsme that is amazing news, congrats to you. Keep up the great work....I know that you can do this and I am so proud of you!

by Etsme on Jan 23, 2012 at 6:21 am

Thanks Everyone! As I said, I couldn't do it without you

by rosemary1979 on Jan 19, 2012 at 9:14 am

I love this quote -- thanks for posting. Anyone who's interested, I also came across a blog post that I really appreciate:
 
http://www.joshilynjackson.com/ftk/?p=1675&fb_source=message
 
My husband always tells me that half the battle is just showing up. Let us all CONTINUE TO ALWAYS SHOW UP!!

by Etsme on Jan 19, 2012 at 9:26 am

Sounds like a winner to me, Freyja!!   Great Quote!!!
 

by ush7292 on Jan 24, 2012 at 5:45 am

I will definitely find the page and "like" it! I remember when you started this group - there was/is so much energy!!! :) Prayers for you and your family!

by skinnursemandee on Jan 25, 2012 at 12:14 am

THanks Ush!! How are you>??? Gosh it's been forver! You need to add me to FB so we can catch up. I have a ton of the origional ladies on there. I'll Pm You

by rosemary1979 on Jan 19, 2012 at 9:09 am

I hope the new day brought your spirits up a little bit. The steam room sounds like a really nice way to do something for yourself. And just so you know, we're all VERY proud of you -- staying within your calorie goal PLUS meeting your workout goal is FANTASTIC! I wish there was an easy solution to the "life is hard" problem, but unfortunately, I think we all have to deal with it some times. Good luck and much cheer to you today!

by ggschaef5760 on Jan 19, 2012 at 7:21 pm

Hi, this is not my regular group, I belong to the 100 miles per month challenge.  But your sad little "sigh" brought out my motherly instincts.  I'm sorry you are feeling a little down and life feels challenging.  Rosemary is right, we all have to deal with life's problems from time to time. Just stay focused on getting through one day.  If you stay within your calories today, put a dollar in a jar.  If you exercise today, add another dollar.  The money will add up day by day and you can save up for a splurge; new cloths, a facial, a massage, etc.  That will give you a treat to work towards.  Eliminate the things from your life that make you feel down (if you can). Find something joyful to hold onto, a song that makes you happy, a bible verse that brings you encouragement, a poem or story that makes you laugh.  You are in control of your life. 

by jengirl163 on Jan 20, 2012 at 9:44 am

Ggschaef5760, I love this advise. I am going to do the dollar in a jar thing. I think that will be a great and fun incentivefor me, in addition to meeting my weekly goals.
Mgenta... I think I know I how you are feeling. There are days where I just feel miserable, I want to quit everything, move away.. and start a new life somewhere else.. without all the problems of my existing life. I found that these feelings of gloominess increased in the winter months and on rainy days. Last year I was researching these mood swings and discovered (based on what I read) I may have SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) which has a lot to do with the amount of sunlight I am exposed to.  Light therapy is a recommended treatment for SAD... so I would go to the tanning booth whenever I felt it the most. Please note: I DO NOT recommend regular use of the tanning bed because of all the harmful side effects that come with them.. But I am ok with going one week a year, for about 3 days that week, at the peak of the winter season (especially gloomy winters). This helped me out a lot and there was a noticable difference after I went tanning for even those few days.  I am not sure if this is similar to what you are going through but you may want to research SAD and the different ways to "treat" it.
The one thing I could suggest, outside of that, is to just keep moving. Keep working out. Keep eating right. Keep moving. Go do something fun like watch a movie or break out the ice skates. Keeping busy will help you avoid falling deeper in a that gloomy funk.
I really hope you feel better..

by tb2012 on Jan 22, 2012 at 3:48 pm

 thank YOU for all your positive energy!  hope you're getting even more than you put in.

by bethy87 on Jan 18, 2012 at 12:54 pm

Sometimes you just have to give into the cravings. I feel that every once in a while if not once a week or more if I eat something I crave or spend a whole day doing it than I actually end up sticking to my goals more and losing more weight because I don't  make myself feel I can't have it. In the beginning we all just need days like that so your next meal or the next day start over and go for it!!
 

by jengirl163 on Jan 18, 2012 at 1:30 pm

I think you are right bethy. I think I will have the grilled cheese I want for dinner.. but I am going to make it with a low carb bread!  thanks!

by rosemary1979 on Jan 18, 2012 at 1:49 pm

I am a major craver, for sure! And what's worse is that I binge crave.... The only thing I can do to temper it is to tell myself that I can have grilled cheese, but only half of it. I just melt the cheese on one side of one piece of bread and fold it over. It gives me a little taste -- almost enough to satisfy me -- and then it's gone. Also, as far as sweet and cold, that's the thing I miss the most (often). I found some all natural popsicles that are only about 100 calories. I tried them in the past but not since I started tracking; maybe find something like that for emergencies. I've found that in my moments of desire, if I have something close at hand that's healthy-ish, I can eat three or four of them and still be calorie-okay as well as satisfied.

Good luck and keep up the good fight!

by bethy87 on Jan 18, 2012 at 3:35 pm

Rosemary- I do not know the brand but you can buy sugar free popsicles and they are only 20-60 calories each depending on the kind so that is something to look for at the store!

by jengirl163 on Jan 19, 2012 at 9:06 am

ok.. so last night I caved... I ate the food I was craving and caused a spike in my calorie count.. but you know what - I am ok with it. I woke up this morning with no intense cravings... my energy and focus back on track.. My meals set for the day to keep with-in my calorie goals. Thanks ladies for the reminders that cravings happen.. and that once in a while its ok to let go and give in. I don't plan on giving myself that "one cheat day" a week because those are gateways to bad behaviors.. but I won't put so much stress or pressure on myself for not meeting my goal for the day. Instead I hope to work through it.
I craved it, I ate it, I am over it... today is a new day!
Happy thursday to you all!

by rosemary1979 on Jan 19, 2012 at 9:07 am

That's even better! I just worry about "sugar free" because a lot of times it means they put aspartame (cancer-causing, they say) in it... just like with all of our sugar free gum. That said, 80-40 calories is A LOT! Thanks for the info.

by rosemary1979 on Jan 18, 2012 at 9:40 am

Welcome to the group! The people here are terrific and very supportive. I tried LS a couple of years ago without groups and I have to say, I think they make all the difference. I haven't had huge progress yet, even with exercise, but knowing the everyone else is working out and watching what they eat really keeps me going. Good luck and happy losing!

by Etsme on Jan 18, 2012 at 10:15 am

Hi, Mgenta & Welcome!  It sounds like you are coming in with a great attitude and the beginnings of a solid foundation.    With a good diet, consistant exercise and friends, anything is possible:-)  Keep up the good work and you will continue to see progress!

by bethy87 on Jan 18, 2012 at 1:04 pm

Hello and welcome!!!!!!!!!!! The great things about groups and having other people to share things with. The thing is WE ALL ARE GOING THROUGH THE SAME THING!! temptations, excuses, laziness, weightgain after a big loss, motivation, ALL OF IT!! so welcome and look forward to getting to know you during your  journey!!
 

by Etsme on Jan 18, 2012 at 6:09 am

WooHoo!!  Way to go Freyja and Bethy!!!! 

by freyja5683 on Jan 18, 2012 at 7:43 am

Way to go Etsme, you are doing a great job. Bethy, I know you can do it, you've done great so far. Keep up the good work everyone!

by bethy87 on Jan 18, 2012 at 9:19 am

Alright!!! Great job everyone!! Lets keep it up!!! Motivation is what you all give me!

by rosemary1979 on Jan 18, 2012 at 9:39 am

You guys are awesome! Way to show some real loss. I have to weigh in today but I'm doubting I lost anything (my measurements are basically the same) so it's nice to see that others are showing progress. Sweet!

by rosemary1979 on Jan 18, 2012 at 11:46 am

How do I get in on the challenge? What stats do I send and to whom?

by freyja5683 on Jan 17, 2012 at 11:51 am

Well I would suggest thinking outside of the box as far as exercises are concerned. You can still do  free weights for upper body and ab work. For the time being I would suggest working out using the things that you can and allow your ankle to completely heal. Can you walk with the knee high brace boot? Maybe that is something you can look into. It may not be comfortable but it might get you moving. You could do push ups too. I say if you need to work with what you have available.
I also have a partner who can eat anything but there comes a time when that can take its toll on a body in other ways, think cholesterol and heart issues. Talk to him about it....if you can, and let him know how you feel when he is eating all of that and you feel deprived.

by rosemary1979 on Jan 17, 2012 at 12:55 pm

I made this recommended an exercise to someone else with an ankle injury, so I hope I'm not repeating myself, but "boxing" is a GREAT work out if you have a lower body injury. Just stand with feet a little wider than hips and kind of sink down into a squat; put your hands up like a boxer and alternate punches across your body (right hand crosses over to left side and so on). Do a combo every second or so and your heart rate should go up quickly. I do this in Jillian's 30 Shred and she does 3-2-1 circuits -- 3 minutes of strength, 2 minutes of cardio, 1 minute of abs. Maybe you can incorporate that into your regimen?
 
Try to keep that ankle safe and I'd think using the brace is a good idea, at least while you're using your ankle intensely (which walking is). And don't forget to ice it if it gets swollen.
 
Sometimes it feels like everything is coming at you at once so I hope you can manage alright. Maybe try to tackle one thing at a time to overcome the feelings of frustration. I'd DEFINITELY talk to your husband about changing his diet along with yours. Mine has been way more supportive than I ever would have thought.
 
GOOD luck and hang in there!

by Chanser on Jan 17, 2012 at 1:46 pm

Thanks girls, I appreciate the support and will try some of your suggestions.

by Chanser on Jan 16, 2012 at 5:05 pm

Yes, thats correct as long as you are under your recommended caloric intake daily you will lose weight.  Sounds like you are doing a great job so far! Goooo Rosemary!!

by freyja5683 on Jan 17, 2012 at 11:58 am

Yes focus on the net calories...you have it right Rosemary. What they are talking about is not just exercise but what they burn doing nothing at all, basically you burn calories all day...just some of us at a much slower rate due to our resting heart rate. If you have a heart rate monitor you could get a good estimation by wearing it all day in a normal day for you and that will tell you what you burn all day long :).
Hope this information helps....and welcome to the group.

by rosemary1979 on Jan 17, 2012 at 1:25 pm

Thanks gals -- I figured I was doing it right but I got a little nervous. Thanks for your help!

by Tuesdaypm on Jan 17, 2012 at 4:39 pm

Hi. I'm not sure if it works for everybody but I have been only tracking my food intake and having that hit the recomended calories per day and then look at exercise as a bonus but don't count it. I would say this is one way you could go if you are doing light to moderate excercise like me (a fitness tape or tredmill walking/jogging for about 45 min each day) but if you are working out alot then you probably do want to track it so you don't drastically under eat. Also to keep in mind that the calories burned on the fitness tracker has been said by many users to overestimate.

by rosemary1979 on Jan 17, 2012 at 5:05 pm

Thanks for the advice -- I'll keep that in mind. I had no idea that the fitness tracker over estimates. Does anyone know of a better way to track calories burned. I have a heart rate monitor so maybe I need to get it out and see if that would work. Or maybe there's a "better" website for calculating these workouts. Any suggestions would be great!!


I like the idea of trying to hit my goal calories without the exercise counted, but I would worry that I wouldn't feel good/under eat like you said. That said, my 25 or 30 minutes of shredding maybe isn't worth the calorie burn that LS says, right?

by freyja5683 on Jan 18, 2012 at 7:47 am

I use my heart rate monitor all the time. I love it and find it to be very accurate, I would suggest using it and maybe if you want you can take what the site says you did and what the heart rate monitor says and average them and use that if you feel that might be better for you. I found out that I tend to burn more calories than what the site says most of the time. But I am also just under 5 feet and a bit heavier than most women my size.

by rosemary1979 on Jan 16, 2012 at 2:59 pm

Way to go! That's an accomplishment, for sure. Be proud of yourself!

by Chanser on Jan 16, 2012 at 5:02 pm

Congrats!  You did it! We knew you could!!! YAY TB2012!!!

by tb2012 on Jan 22, 2012 at 3:49 pm

 thank you so much!  positive energy back at you both!

by rosemary1979 on Jan 16, 2012 at 2:13 pm

Welcome back! I'm so glad to hear that you were successful using MyPlate -- I aim to lose around 60 pounds myself. For now, let's lose that 40 together! Happy losing. :o)

by tb2012 on Jan 16, 2012 at 2:18 pm

if you did it once, you can do it again, and you have less to lose this time!!  i completely agree re: the giving and receiving of support.  hope you get way more back than you put in! 

by Chanser on Jan 16, 2012 at 5:06 pm

Thanks for the encouragement girls!

by tori_becker on Jan 15, 2012 at 7:58 am

 This is my second day of my calorie counting diet, although it was a little challenging I was able to meet my daily goal. Picture yourself meeting your goal and you will! Goodluck! 

by CarlonStevens on Jan 15, 2012 at 10:55 am

Thank You Tori.... My biggest challange is the hunger cravings......

by CarlonStevens on Jan 15, 2012 at 8:08 pm

Well my day is finally over. After burning the calories through exercise I still had ove 640 calories left. I hope that is good.
   It is a terrible struggle to get through the hunger pains but better than looking in the mirror and hating what I see and also hopefully one day I will get my energy level back.
   Good Luck to everyone.....

by Chanser on Jan 16, 2012 at 11:55 am

Hi Carlon,
It sounds like you did great! 640 calories left on your first day is cause to celebrate! YAY Carlon!!! You did it!!

by rosemary1979 on Jan 16, 2012 at 11:36 am

I drink a lot of water and it seems to work some times. Also, tea/coffee if you like that. I don't think either one counts as having any calories; that said, it might be good to watch your caffeine in take. And of course, veggies and fruits are my LIFE SAVERS! I usually take a couple of Cuties/tangerines, an apple, and a banana to work as snacks. Plus, they're sweet and I really miss sugar these days. I've also found that if I start with a hearty breakfast, I can make it almost to lunch without craving. I made up a bunch of breakfast burritos chuck full of spinach and other veggies (no cheese) and froze them. Quick, easy, filling breakfast for only a few hundred calories.
The other thing I do is obsess over this site -- whenever I feel like eating, I come here, go to all my groups, check my plate, look for a recipe... it seems to really help.
Good luck and stick with it!

by Chanser on Jan 16, 2012 at 11:58 am

Water is definetly a good one like Rosemary said, it fills you, hydrates you and the best thing of all...its 0 calories!  I hate regular water so I buy flavored water.  100 calorie packs, bars, etc. are mybest friends I learned I like to mindlessly eat, so I grab my bag of cookies or whatever (100 calories) and I mindlessly eat till I hit the end of the bag, then its gone and I m done.  Fruit and veggies are also good or exercise.  Good Luck!

by Mgenta13 on Jan 18, 2012 at 6:11 am

I would recommend combining a protein with whatever fruit/veggie snack you have. Just a banana on its own isn't filling enough (on the long term) or savory enough for me. I like to have banana and peanut butter (you can buy a mini tupperware container- usually used for dressing to put this in), or cucumber/carrots and hummus (again utilize small container), I'm also really fond of the Fage 0% plain greek yogurt- lots of good active culture and protein and only a 100 cals- I add purple grapes usually but you could do any kind of fruit reallly....

by dietingdeb on Jan 15, 2012 at 5:56 am

hi and welcome to both of you!
carlon, can i ask how you came up w/ that amt?  usually men need a lot more cals. than that. it does depend on how active you are etc.  if you don't eat enough, you won't burn your cals.  your body will lose for awhile, but eventually your metabolism will slow down to protect itself from starving. also, your body will start to take the energy from your muscles instead of burning fat.
k2053, that may also be why  your have no energy. you are not giving yourself enough food to give you energy to work out as much as you are doing.   if you are really active, try upping the amt of cals and seeing if that helps.
also you both may want to either open your food diary to others on here to help w/suggestions or pats on the back. if you don't wat to open to everyone, you can pick someone and just have that person be your buddy.
good luck to both of you! i know you can do it!

by freyja5683 on Jan 13, 2012 at 8:23 am

Eat a few more calories than normal for the next day or two and then go back to normal it might just boost your metabolism, it's whats worked for me. Also try working out for a bit longer two days this week and see if that works....It's a hit or miss sometimes, and everyone is different.

by lindseyface36 on Jan 13, 2012 at 2:13 pm

Sounds like you are at the plateu stage. If you have lost 20 lbs or more then you need to adjust your calorie intake numbers. It is simple to do through this website. Good luck!!

by Eliza_Rae on Jan 14, 2012 at 8:21 am

So, I read your post from a couple of days ago, about how you only eat every second day. I'm going to guess that is why you're not losing any more weight.  As a woman you need at least 1200 calories a day for your body to function correctly, and happily. Your body is probably storing fat like crazy to prepare for your starve days.  Try fasting no more than once a week.  If you have the strength and determination to not eat everyother day, you have the strength and determination to eat only 1200 calories everyday.

by dietingdeb on Jan 15, 2012 at 5:59 am

i totally agree w/eliza. your body is protecting itself.  you need energy to burn off fat/cals.  you could try not fasting and just try eating 3 small meals a day and 2 small snacks, drink pleanty of water too.  at first when you do this you may not lose right away because of your metabolism slowing down from protection mode, but eventually you will start to lose.  
good luck and let us know how you do!

by Leajuris on Jan 15, 2012 at 11:00 pm

 OMG, thank you everyone so much. I stoped eating every second day, now I'm eating every day with 4 small meals and training like an ox-horse :D I ate lots of foods for weekend, to get calories and boost my metabolism. I can't wait till 26th, I will be weighting myself by that day, so we'll see how it goes. 
Thank you everyone for so much help and time, i really appreciate it. 

by Etsme on Jan 11, 2012 at 12:20 pm

Great work everyone.  Thanks for all the hard work Carolyn!!