posted on December 31, 2000 04:25:31 PM
Ok everyone - I'm going to try (seriously!!) to lose some weight this year. Anyone making the same resolution?? Let's start a thread to keep each other motivated. (Lord knows I need all the help I can get.)
No making fun is allowed. Just encouragement and support. Let's give it a try!!!
posted on December 31, 2000 04:31:41 PM
Why not! I quit smoking this way. Of course, that's why I gained weight. Have to clean out the fridge first, though. Then Mr.Toke will be willing to go along with it. Exercise too??
posted on December 31, 2000 04:38:23 PMbarbarake: I'll keep you company. I've been on my cholesteral diet for several months (& losing weight at same time) and was doing really well until the holiday season. I don't have a scale, but I went from the 3 hole in my belt to the seventh. Typically, I gained back some of what I lost over Thanksgiving & Xmas. I am now gritting my teeth & forcing myself to get back on track!
From my experience recently, I can tell you that keeping a diary of what you eat each day is a *big* help.
Don't totally swear off all those "bad" things you like--you will feel deprived & soo give up. Instead, look at your eating diary each day to see how you are doing calorie/fat gram-wise & fit in *small* portions of treats.
posted on December 31, 2000 04:50:50 PM
Instead of "I'm going to lose 30 pounds this year"
try saying "I'm aiming to lose 10 pounds"
when you DO lose 10lbs then say "I'm going to try lose another 10lbs" etc...
as for me, I'm aiming to eat healthier foods...
hint: DON'T celebrate/reward yourself after losing a pound or two....
posted on December 31, 2000 04:56:22 PMbunnicula - How effective has your diet been at lowering your cholesteral? My ex-husband (we're still good friends) is having problems getting his down. I just happened to run across "The 8-week Cholesterol Cure" book and will give it to him. Have you ever heard of it? He's been on several medications and they either don't work anymore or have bad side effects. He's going on an 'experimental' one this week.
posted on December 31, 2000 05:37:52 PM
If my 21 year old would move out, I could lose 130 pounds.
Seriously, I am going to starting a new WOE (way of eating) starting on the 3rd. I'm not going to center in so much on "dieting", just being more careful and making better choices.
The stepper is coming out too, and the weight bench in the basement will be put into mild use.
posted on December 31, 2000 05:47:02 PM
barbarake,
My sister was in a test group for an experimental drug for her high cholestrol (310). After a couple of months someone outside the group suggested she take metamucil twice daily and she did.
They kicked her out of the study after 2 months of the metamucil as her cholesterol was down to 225 and she was in the "placebo" group.
Psyllium is the ingredient in metamucil that seems to make it effective for some.
posted on December 31, 2000 07:48:33 PMbarbarake: I haven't gone back yet to have my cholesteral tested...I know, I know, but somehow I just haven't found the time!
posted on January 1, 2001 12:01:52 AM
Hey Joice! Good thought. My husband has his cholesterol under control and he has Metamucil once a day. Actually, it's a generic brand that's actually better tasting than Meta. He isn't eating any differently now, but his weight is always kept down nicely--he has oatmeal and a banana and milk for breakfast Every Single Day (loves it), has a bagel, a yogurt, and an apple for lunch, and regular food for dinner. He is so motivated he makes me sick--but he does look good!
A while back I heard a very wise person on TV say that we should only eat food that is outstandingly good, and skip the mundane. It's a thought, isn't it!
My problem is that when there is an abundance of food presented to me, like at a party or in a restaurant, something in me makes me eat more than I should. I wish I could get a handle on that. Just because the food is there, it doesn't mean I have to eat it! Easier said than done.
I'm game on this weight-loss thing; count me in! We go to the beach in Mexico next week, and trying on my swim suit yesterday was a very humbling experience. Adele
posted on January 1, 2001 05:37:56 AM
I am very, very fat and have been all my life but my cholesterol and other blood chemistry is excellant which drives my doctor nuts as he is thin and can't get his numbers where he wants them at all. He does admit to me that only some people are at risk for their diet
running their cholesteral up and that if you are not in that group of people you are going to a great deal of trouble for nothing. If you are prone to high numbers most of the time your liver will make the cholesterol even if you don't eat it. I have 3 eggs for breakfast fried in butter most mornings and test at 170.
But I would like to lose some pounds to give my feet and knees a break.
[ edited by gravid on Jan 1, 2001 05:39 AM ]
posted on January 1, 2001 05:46:13 AMgravid - I hate you!! (just kidding. To be honest, I'm jealous.) I'm pretty heavy myself (ok, 5'9", 230 lbs) and I know it bugs my doctor that my cholesterol is below 200 and my blood pressure is around 112/70 or so. I just want to lose some weight for *myself* - I've put on 60 lbs since I had children and I've finally had it.
I'm going to have oatmeal and a banana for breakfast. I'm lucky in that I actually *like* oatmeal. This has got to be better than my typical 'grab a bacon/egg/cheese biscuit on the way to work' routine.
posted on January 1, 2001 08:19:10 AM
A couple of years ago after gaining fifteen pounds CAUSED by the creation of ebay (I was always on the computer and always eating in front of the computer) I made a New Years resolution to get up from my computer and exercise for 30 minutes a day.
That little change caused me to lose 15 pounds.
I was so psyched that I did Atkins for a couple of months and lost another 25 pounds. Now whenever I see the weight creep up I do Atkins. It really works and melts the fat right off.
There are several web sites of Atkins devotees. Check it out.
The last time I said diet I moved into the refrigerator! Saying that word does something to me especially my waist line. Now if I could just figure out a way to lose my waist line and gain some in my legs I would be doing fine.
As my unselfish donation for the new year I am donating my 10 or 15 lbs to Beth.
Joice,
Have you tased that stuff and looked what it looks like mixed up? Dad used to take that stuff and I don't care if he mixed it. It looked thick and disgusting!
My dr. asked me last year how long it had been since I had my cholesteral tested. Never, I told him. I figured what I didn't know etc... He tested it and luckily it was really good.
toke,
But then, you have will-power. For some reason that word is not in my vocabulary. Each time I have lost weight it has been by accident.
I am still waiting for the time I have the flu and DON't have an appetite.
Ha! It took me almost 40 years to quit smoking...not too much willpower here. I've only had a weight problem once before in my life...when I was divorced from my first husband. I was miserable...and ate, and ate, and ate. Got up to 120 on my very small 5 foot frame. I looked like I could roll down the street.
Anyway...what works for me is results...even small ones. Free weights can be wonderful for that. You can feel and see your body change. Much more satisfying than aerobics for me, and ups the metabolism as well. Also...muscle mass burns more calories than fat. After a good workout, I hate to blow what I've accomplished by pigging out.
Did all this working out so I could keep up with all the teeny boppers horseback riding. First time in my life I actually had muscle! Maybe you'd like it, Shar. Worth a try? It seems more like a hobby than a chore....
posted on January 1, 2001 10:57:26 AM
I have always been "sturdy", and am comfortable in my weight, but could lose another 5 to 10 lbs. I quit smoking, gained 25 lbs, started back up puffing again, lost 15. If I can get back to where I was before I quit, I will happy (sz14 and height is 5'8". If I stay like I am, Im not unhappy, but I think instead of having a "losing weight" frame of mind, I want to concentrate on "firming up". I have my bicycle, my bike rack on the back of my car, and will be utilizing it more this spring and summer. I want to drive up the coast, up by Cambria and Big Sur, and see things from a bike point of view, ya know? Smell the pines, the salty air and feel the wind in my face, hear the sounds one can hear when one is not inside a car. Also, my goal, too, is to purchase a kayak and toodle around the bay and eventually get experienced enough for ocean kayaking. So thats my plan...to FIRM UP what seems to want to stay
posted on January 1, 2001 12:04:29 PM
Hey all! A friend was just going through the posts and suggested I tell you my story.
About three years ago I went on a program called the "Great North American Slimdown". It is not a diet, but a way of life. Before I go any further, I do NOT work for the company.
I lost 60 pounds in a year by eating more. The long and short of it is that you eat every 2.5 to 3 hours. No oil, butter, egg yolk, or sugar and the only dairy must be non-fat. Each meal should consist of a carb the size of your fist, a protein the size of your flat hand and as much fiber as you wish. After I had lost 40 pounds in 6 months, I started a cardio-kickboxing program and lost another 20 pounds in the next 6 months. All told I went from a size 18 to a size 5.
You'd be suprised, you really do lose weight by eating more because it boosts your metabolism. Mine is tough to boost because I'm also on medication for an underactive thyroid. Nothing else had worked, believe me, I tried.
Now, after holding that weight for 2 years, I stopped the kickboxing class and began eating the old way. I've gained 10 pounds back in the last six months and am going back on the program. I'll keep you posted.
posted on January 1, 2001 12:20:51 PM
BUT THE FAT IS WHAT MAKES FOOD TASTE GOOD!
That said,I really need to tone up! My posterier is begining to resemble a bean bag from being at this computer so much!So exercise is on my list of things to get back to doing.
Shar! You sound like me! If I so much as think the word diet I begin to gain weight. Thus I will never diet again. I lose weight if I just cut the breads out. [I love bread!]
Probably could lose it faster if I cut out the pizza [that bread crust!]But life is not worth living without cheesy pizza!!
posted on January 1, 2001 01:54:12 PM
Just a couple things that have helped me.
To make greens something actually good to eat sprinkle with malt vinegar.
To do away with salad dressing use fresh lemon. I love too much salt but I find I am satisfied if I don't salt the whole plate but just the last couple of bites on the plate.
posted on January 1, 2001 03:08:10 PM
I very rarely use salt anymore, & I used to really love it! I switched to pepper a couple of years ago & don't miss salt at all.
posted on January 1, 2001 03:22:58 PM
Today is my 17th day on a 'program'. This is also my 7th day of having one smoke every TWO hours (started with one smoke every hour and did that for three weeks)....the plan it to phase out the smoking with as few deaths as possible. I will also have my 6th workout tomorrow.
I feel really *really* good! However, I know I will need some encouragement (as I slipped and fell into a batch of cookies already) so would love to be part of this thread!
posted on January 1, 2001 06:54:39 PM
I am with you. We have Dr. Bob here but he is REALLY expensive BUT it works. Mostly water pills, though which can be scary. With his help I am down from a size 22/24 to a size 14/16. Now, to lose more I vow to:
1.) Drink 64 oz of water a day
2.) Buy no ice cream, no matter how much it calls me from the freezer
3.) Eat more salad with dressing on the side
4.) Try to find a way to exercise while listing auctions
5.) Hide the salt shaker where I can't find it - and the chips while I am at it, too!
6.) If all else fails:
Call Dr. Bob and tell him I love him and miss him!
posted on January 1, 2001 07:03:13 PM
Hi everyone - Well, I've been good today. One down, rest of my life to go. (I'm depressed already.)
Seriously, I'm with the other posters that said even thinking the word 'diet' makes me gain weight. I'm just trying to eat more sensibly. My first goal is to actually eat a healthy breakfast instead of grabbing something at the local fast food place.
I'm not looking to actually get slender (hahahaha), just look and feel better.
The drinking more water is a great idea. That's something I've been meaning to do - and I'm going to start.
How's everyone else been doing?
In case anyone is interested, 'shrimp and corn chowder' made with skim milk and evaporated (nonfat) milk is quite good.
posted on January 1, 2001 08:18:34 PM
Hi everyone, this is a wonderful idea. I am what might be described as 'charmingly chubby' - but - I am tall so I can carry it. At least that's my story and I will stick to it!!
Diet is a dirty word to me and I'm in there with the rest of you who gain weight by even thinking diet. I prefer to think of eating healthy. But I can't give everything up at once, I just stopped smoking 6 weeks ago and don't want to start again - so one little sweet a week surely can't hurt. I will give up Tea and Coffee. I don't like them anyway. I honestly think the only way to do this is to treat yourself once a week, at least it gives you something to look forward to (if you have been good that is).
My Dad has Metamucil everyday and I think he has to eat it with a spoon, it is thick and looks disgusting, but my mother swears by porridge (oatmeal) to lower cholesterol.
I am not sure about the excercise, seems like hard work to me, I am having enough trouble trying to convince myself to list some auctions.
May the power of postive thinking be with all of us.
[ edited by nettak on Jan 1, 2001 08:21 PM ]
posted on January 1, 2001 08:30:31 PM
Here's a fellow Atkins fan waving at ya, deja vu! 73# gone and loss maintained for three years. Love that fat, love that red meat!
Seriously, everybody's body responds differently to diets. I tried for many years to lose weight on Weight Watchers, Nutri-System, low-fat diets, no-fat diets etc.--you name it, I tried it. My husband and I were even vegetarians for eight solid years--two of those years as a vegan which means no dairy or eggs--ack! All I did was get fatter and fatter. DH got sicker and sicker--his BP soared and no medication could control it. We would look at each other and say sheesh, if we feel this bad eating so "healthy", how bad would we feel if we ate bad stuff?
Well now all we eat is "bad stuff," and we've never felt better. As I mentioned, I've lost more than 70 pounds. My DH's blood pressure dropped to normal within three weeks of starting Atkins, and remains there to this day *with no medication*. Our doctor is a believer in lowcarb diets, and agrees with the scientific evidence presented in Atkins' (and other lowcarb proponents' books). Our annual physicals back up our good health--most people can only dream about lowering their cholesterol to where ours remains, effortlessly, while we eat real butter and use real cream in our coffee.
Lowcarb diets are very unforgiving, though. You can't cheat. If you do, then all the horror stories they tell about lowcarb will come true. For example, if you combine your butter and cream with starches your cholesterol will most likely go up rather than stay low as ours does. You gotta be good when you're on lowcarb.
And psyllium husk is great stuff. My nick "psyllie" comes from a side business we developed after going lowcarb, and it involves psyllium husk powder, so I know a lot about it. Eat it, it's good for you.
posted on January 1, 2001 08:36:13 PM
I love all the great ideas on this thread.
I've got a good 20 pounds to take off. I refuse to go near a scale, so the truth is it could be more than that.
The last time I lost weight I did it by walking three miles a day. The pounds just dropped! I think I'll start with a mile and try to work up to three.
Maui I used to love to bicycle - nowdays I can't enjoy the scenery cause all I can think about is how painful that little bitty bike seat feels squarshing up the crack of my... well never mind.
That cookie dough is dangerous Stuff! That'll do it every time! Been there already.
nettak,
Take away my coffee and tea and I wouldn't make it PERIOD and I need all the help I can get.
My sister swore I must start using decaf tea and coffee. I told her I preferred to be able to move. As in, I can't function until I've had 2 cups of coffee and my first glass of iced tea for the day.
Toke,
Sounds fun! My son rode horses for years and we have had a couple. Horses and I don't agree. The one time I did go riding the darn horse decided we were going to go round and round. The only problem was there was a mean grape vine involved and I ended up twisted up in it. Then there was the small problem that the horse trotted. My butt didn't like the pace.
Exercising I do have a problem with. Stretching exercises is about the extent of my capabilities and carefully at that and these new meds are a killer on the extra the last few months.
Hopefully when I leave this month my D will want to diet especially after she has the baby but that isn't until the end of March. She is asking me to bring all kinds of those "little goodie" recipes.
I do need to try to eat better. I have forgotten who it was that suggested the good breakfast but when I eat breakfast I want to eat, eat and eat again.
Rawbunzel,
Pizza is one of my many shortfalls or pitfalls. It's a good thing dh doesn't care too much for it.
Barbarake,
You're catching!
Okay, a decision here. I am going to at least try for unsweetened tea and coffee but I have to have a little cream.(did any of you know that sips of sweetened tea works for some that have nausea?) I will add 5 glasses of water and I may try a little trick I used once and that is IF I think I have to eat then I must drink a full glass of water first. Water in case you don't know is not a favorite of mine.
posted on January 2, 2001 07:48:56 AM
Shar9, and anyone else who finds it difficult to drink water: Many people dislike water either because it has no taste or because it tastes weird in some way.
Many areas of the country, mine included, have very highly mineralized water which lends a metallic, somewhat bitter taste under the best of circumstances. This past summer, during a very dry spell, our municipal water supply became dangerously low. Emergency conservation efforts worked, but reduced water use meant that the water we did have sat in the reservoirs for longer periods of time, growing algae and who knows what all. Tap water tasted stale and indefinably "off," even though it was supposed to be safe for consumption.
- The easiest, but most expensive, way to solve the taste problem is to drink bottled water (my choice). I look for one with zero total dissolved solids (TDS). Be SURE you get one with zero sodium - and if you happen to be taking a diuretic of any kind, be careful with the potassium and manganese levels as well.
- Drink your water iced. Your mouth notices the temperature rather than flavor, and by the time your taste buds warm up, the water is down the hatch.
- Add a bit of fruit juice. I squeeze half a lemon into about a quart of water. Orange is also good, although I'm not fond of lime. The calories are negligible and the taste of the water then becomes more familiar to people who are accustomed to drinking sodas or tea.
Also: When you first begin drinking more water, be prepared for (ahem) increased urinary output. After a couple of weeks, though, your kidneys will adjust and the frequency of bathroom breaks will decline to normal.
SilkMoth
64 ounces a day, every day...
--------
not SilkMoth anywhere but here
I haven't gone back yet to have my cholesteral tested...I know, I know, but somehow I just haven't found the time!
Yeccch! It's like drinking slime! I will *not* be adding it to my weight loss program...