Welcome and Intro!

[Longhorn]

I'm so glad to have the company of fellow DUers as I continue to try to get in better shape, both literally and figuratively!

I'm almost 50, female, 5'8", and I'm not sure how much I weigh because I'm trying to focus on size and physical condition rather than weight, though I think I'm going to need to register a beginning weight soon. I believe I'm about 200 to 210 pounds and I'm wearing around size 16 to 18. (I was down to a 10/12! :()

Two years ago, I lost 70 pounds on a fasting diet, Medifast. I didn't do the total fast but it was still a very low calorie diet (VLCD.) It worked but I would never do it again, mainly because in the last year, all I've done is gain and gain and this while moderately exercising and trying to develop a healthy diet. I did not return to my old bad habits, yet I'm still gaining.

So now I'm focusing more on exercise. I love to cycle but I'm having trouble coming up with a good workable schedule since I work from noon to 8, Monday through Friday. I own an elliptical trainer and a home gym, so I'd like to combine all three.

As far as food, I just received in the mail yesterday a calorie calculator and I thought I'd start by recording how many calories I'm actually consuming every day. I don't like to cook or spend much time preparing food so I'm trying to find a good, EASY, healthy diet that I can follow every day, including taking to work with me.

Looking forward to meeting y'all! :hi:

[saracat]

1. Hi there!

I too, am trying to get back into shape. I have been atkinsing since a couple of weeks after Easter and have lost thirteen pounds! I need to lose another twenty to get back to my "normal " weight. I am in my forties and have clothes sized from 4 to twelve in my closet!My 'fat" clothes had reached the point where they were too tight! I had quit smoking last year and just didn't give a damn anymore! I was also depressed and let things go. But now I am determined to get my act together! Godd Luck to you.It is a battle but a satisfying one.

[Longhorn]

27. Congratulations on the 13 pounds!

I had success with Atkins the first time I did it back in about '97 but when I tried it since then, I didn't lose. :shrug:

Congratulations on quitting smoking, too. From what I've heard, that's a real tough thing to do! :yourock:

[bertha katzenengel]

2. Hi, Longhorn.

Would you be interested in hearing a simple calculation that can help? I'm not using it at the moment, but it is very handy, and it works.

[Longhorn]

6. I sure would!

Simple is good! :D

[bertha katzenengel]

8. Okay.

First: 3,500 calories roughly equals one pound of body weight.

Take your weight and add a zero to the end. The resulting four-digit number is roughly the number of calories you need to maintain that weight without exercise. I'm not shy: for me, 270 becomes 2,700.

Say I begin a 1,700-calorie diet. That is a daily savings of 1,000 calories.

At the end of one week, if I have been strict about limiting myself to 1,700 calories per day (or 11,900 for the week*), I should have lost about two pounds.

* Say on one day I am so busy that I only eat one or two meals, and another day there's a party and I go over 1,700. I can balance it out however I want to, to a total of 11,900 calories for the week.

[Longhorn]

10. I hate writing things down but now that I have my new calculator

I think I could actually keep track of this. Thanks!

[RubyDuby in GA]

3. Hi Longhorn

I am looking forward to being in this group with y'all.
Over the past 6 years, I've lost over 75lbs and 50lbs. I am beginning a new regime June 1 and I'm hoping 3rd times the charm. I've made a list of reasons why I need and want to lose this weight - mainly health reasons.

I love my DU family and can't wait to be a part of this group for the encouragment.

:)

[Longhorn]

28. I hate to think of all the weight I've lost and regained over the years!

What's your new plan? Please share!

And making a good list and posting it somewhere as a reminder is an excellent idea!

[MuseRider]

4. Thank you thank you thank you

I need something like this right now. I started gaining weight at about 45 years old. I would gain a little and I could then lose it pretty easily using the Zone Diet. Similar to Adkins I think, healthy and makes you feel great. Once I hit 49 the weight started packing on and I am now 51 and freaking out about it. I am 5'2" and am closing in on my pregnancy weight of 150. I was 105 at 45. No one thinks I look fat and I really don't, just a little rounder than I should but it does not feel good. I too have clothes ranging from size 4 - 12 and the 12's are getting tight and I refuse to buy anything bigger.

First I gave up on pop and started drinking water, 3 liters a day. Then I gave up sugar. Next was bad carbs. I still ate some fast food until last August when my last son left home for school and now I eat healthy food and not any more than I should to lose weight slowly but it just keeps packing on.

I know at this age it is normal for women to experience those "30 little friends" that never leave but I have not figured out who invited them. SO, as I try to eat better I am still gaining weight.

I have a farm so I do exercise by working a lot. It is not aerobic but it is work. Arghhhh.

Glad to be here. Maybe we can all share info and encouragement.

[Longhorn]

29. I think we're in the same boat!

Fighting nature, that is. I can't understand how I would gain eating the way I do, but I have. And you with such an active life!

But complaining about it is like complaining about the weather, I guess. So we just do what we've gotta do. I keep telling myself I'd be even bigger if I hadn't kept trying to keep it off. :shrug:

[Arugula Latte]

5. Hi everyone!

I'm a 39 year old female, and, as I mentioned on the thread that started this whole thing, I'm not really overweight, but I would like to lose five or ten pounds for vanity. My main goal is just to exercise consistently and firm up. I had two babies in my early 30s and have felt a little jiggly ever since. I was able to take off maybe 10 pounds last year. I figure the best birthday gift I can give myself when I turn 40 in seven months is to feel healthy, firm, and energetic.

I have a hardtime staying away from sugar, and I feel I do get those sugar crashes and carb cravings.

When I was in high school I had a period when I felt out of control with eating. I never again want to experience that craving to eat compulsively!

I have been trying to make a few little changes here and there, like making an effort to eat more whole grains. (I had oatmeal this morning, but of course I don't like it without sugar!)

Good luck to us all! :toast:

[lavenderdiva]

14. have you tried Splenda on your oatmeal? n/t

[Arugula Latte]

24. I haven't.

I'm a little wary of sugar substitutes. I feel like they'll discover something terrible about them ten or twenty years down the road.

[lavenderdiva]

43. Of the sugar substitutes out there,

Splenda, I feel, is the best one... It is made from sugar itself. Also, it is stable under high heat, unlike aspartame, which some feel might be related to Gulf War Syndrome. Diet Coke, among other aspartame-based drinks were shipped over, and allowed to sit, in the heat, on pallets. The aspartame in them is not stable under high heat, and may be the root cause of these various health complaints that many who served over there, are experiencing.

In any case, Splenda is what I now use exclusively, as I much prefer the taste. I even cook with it. I have tried Stevia (a natural sweetener), but in some proportions found it to be bitter-tasting.

[Arugula Latte]

44. Thanks for the info.

I'll give Splenda a try. :hi:

[Longhorn]

30. One level teaspoon of sugar only has 15 calories!

http://www.online-ambulance.com/calories/grp/Genfoods/cal/Sugar.htm

I think the problem with sugar is that it's in so many foods without us even realizing it. But if you're aware of exactly how much you're adding, those few extra calories in your oatmeal are still probably going to be better than a bowl of cereal with a bunch of added sugar that you don't even know about (unless you look at the label, of course!) :D

[Lisa0825]

7. Hi y'all!!!!

I'm 36 years old, 5'7" and 174 lbs. I lost 41 pounds between July and November of last year. I have maintained since then, but am now trying to lose more. I'd like to get down to 150 and then reevaluate.

I lost the weight through the South Beach Diet (whole grains, lean proteins, lots of veggies and fruits, almost no processed/refined foods) and working out 5 days a week.

I had intended to get back on the wagon after the holidays, buthealth issues got in the way. I caught two bad colds, which put me out of commission for about 4 weeks. Then, I pinched a nerve in my neck, and THEN re-aggravated it. After 2 weeks pain free, I think I am finally over it, and have started some mild to moderate exercise.

I belong to a gym, which I haven't been too in months. I also have a weight bench with attachments and free weights at home.

I was a bridesmaid at my high weight, and I am going to be one again in July, so it will be interesting to compare pictures!!! In addition, I may have a date for the wedding, who I have not met in person yet. So, I am hoping 6 weeks of being back on track will firm me up a bit more so I look hot in my dress:-)

[Longhorn]

31. There's nothing more fun than seeing folks you haven't seen in awhile

after you've lost weight! They notice it much more than those who see us every day. You'll have to tell us all about the wedding and the stir you cause! :D

[movie_girl99]

9. fellow Texan here

I will be 40 in September and really wanted to be in good shape by then. I'm 5'3" and this morning weighed 186. I wear a size 14 in pants and an XL top. I am okay with my size but i would like to get more toned and fit.

[Longhorn]

32. I think you've got the right attitude,

to focus on getting toned and fit. When I'm not losing as quickly as I like, focusing on my fitness reminds me that even if I'm not as small as I'd like, at least I'm improving my physical condition. It helps me be more patient, something I always have to work on. ;)

[prole_for_peace]

11. Hi ya'll, another Texas here.

I will be 40 in September. I am 5'5" and weight, probably, 200. I joined LA Weightloss in October of last year and lost about 20 lbs but when tax season rolled around I was so busy I didn't have time to get by their 3 times a week. I put my plan on hold. I also didn't eat well during that time because I didn't have time to cook and I didn't exercise either since I wasn't getting home until around 8 each night.

By the way my clothes are fitting, I have probably gained it all back (i'm not looking at a eff'in scale).

Three weeks ago I had carpal tunnel surgery and that has put off re-starting any weight exercises but I have been getting on the treadmill 5 nights a week for about 30 minutes or so.

I hope this forum will help me with motivation and maybe even some accountability

[Longhorn]

33. I had a bad experience at Jenny Craig a few years ago

and it really turned me off to any of the weight loss clinics, though it isn't really fair for me to paint them all with the same brush.

I finally got the courage up to go to the clinic and was feeling pretty emotional about it. The sales girl really took advantage of how I was feeling and "went in for the kill," making comments about how my husband must feel about me looking that way, etc. Ordinarily, it would have pissed me off (and it did, of course, later) but she got me at a really low point. It set the wrong tone for the entire experience -- yes, I lost weight as I have on just about any diet I've tried -- but I wasn't doing it for the right reasons.

Anyway, I think it's great that you've already started regular exercise. Someone suggested a daily or weekly exercise thread on which we would check in and share our progress. How does that sound to you?

[lavenderdiva]

12. Hi Longhorn! Hi Everyone!

I'm so excited about the formation of this group! It was a fantastic idea. I tried the Exercise & Fitness group for a brief time, but I must admit, was quite intimidated by their keen interest in what to me, seemed extreme exercise. I know I must exercise, but marathons will never be in my future.

I'm 46, and have just ballooned in the last 10 years. I was always a pretty normal weight, give or take a few pounds until my late 20's when I just gorged myself (emotional eating) and gained up to 195lbs- I'm 5'6" tall. I put myself on a 1200-1500 calorie-a-day diet, eating Lean Cuisine & an apple for lunch, and lean meats and a really nice salad for dinner. It took me approx. 1-1/2 to 2 years to lose 75lbs. The last bit of weight came off pretty easily as I started Competitive Ballroom Dancing. I participated in that for many years, eventually being ranked no. 2, with my partner, in the United States. Keeping the weight off, was oh-so easy then, because we would practice 5-6 hours a day, and then I would work out at the gym for another 1-1/2 to 2 hours daily. I was in the shape of a lifetime, felt great, and could and did eat anything. When we quit dancing, unfortunately, my eating pattern did not change along with the decrease in activity, and within the first year, I put on 70 lbs. Yikes! That was over 10 years ago, and those initial 70lbs have turned into a total of 100lbs gained.I now weigh 225-227, depending on the day. I have high blood pressure, and can't wear anything in my closet, except frumpy stuff, and there's only a couple of things at that!! I have very little energy, and feel awful about myself and how I look.

Earlier in the year, I tried Atkins, and must say, for a diet, I felt exceptionally well. Usually, when dieting, I feel edgy, tired, and at some point, compulsively seek out some sort of food to calm myself. I didn't feel any of that while on Atkins. But after a few weeks, I sure did miss some sort of carbohydrate. This past Monday, I started something that I hope will work for me. I am having an Atkins breakfast (1 scrambled egg, bacon, coffee), a lean cuisine for lunch and an apple, and some kind of Atkins dinner. I've had a Chicken Caesar Salad one night, grilled chicken breast and broccoli last night; that sort of thing for dinner. I am hoping that the limited portions of lean cuisine, yet the variety of flavors will nip the urge to cheat and experience carbs in a limited fashion. If left to my own devices, portion control is almost non-existent.

Instead of walking persay, I have been doing a major organization of my house recently, moving boxes, cleaning, etc. Also painting. Much motion and such, so I hope that counts. I hate sweating, and live in Houston; even walking outside right now is awful. I do have a treadmill, once I uncover it during my organizational attempt!

Anyway, I am looking forward to getting to know each of you, and helping you, in any way I can, to support you toward your goals..... :hi:

[Arugula Latte]

25. I would say that

not only does the motion of reorganizing a house count, the mental benefits of having a cleaner, de-cluttered house could probably help you lose weight.

I think people underestimate the mental toll that "stuff" takes on them, so I think it's great you're doing that!

I still have several problem areas in my house, but I'm trying to tackle them. It's hard when you have kids because god knows the stuff just keeps coming in the door.

[lavenderdiva]

63. I think you are right about the clutter...

I have been living this way for a few years. Unfortunately, I married a 'keeper' who likes to bring everything old and used home to keep and never let anything go! Once it gets started, its hard to get a handle on it, but that's what I'm trying to remedy. I have to do lots of things during the day, while Mr. lavenderdiva is at work, and get them out the door, or else he pitches a fit. I just cannot continue to live this way. I do feel the decluttering will help me mentally. All this mess really screws up my mental energy (not to mention just to look at it makes me tired, and not want to do anything, like exercise). Its going to take me awhile, but I am determined NOT to live like this forever. My husband thinks I am unsentimental (is this a word?), but my feeling is, if its not something I would have bought/picked for myself, out the door it goes, I don't care who its from. We are at that point. I just can't keep everything anyone gives us or leaves us. Both my parents passed away, and I am still trying to go thru all of their stuff, and weed out, grandmother- same thing, his parents are moving to a new home and have gone thru their stuff and gave it to hubby, so now I have to go thru that... on and on....

like you said: 'god knows the stuff just keeps coming in the door'! stop already with the stuff: that is my new mantra!!

[Longhorn]

34. I appreciate your sharing what you're eating.

It sounds like a doable eating plan. My biggest "beef" with most diets is that they sometimes assume that overweight people must love to cook. I'm sure there are some who do but I certainly don't and I need a plan that is fairly simple and portable, too.

I'm an adjunct faculty so I don't have my own office. Since I also started tutoring, I have access to a refrigerator in the learning lab so that has opened up possibilities for bringing food. And there's a small cafe in the building where I can get salads and fruit.

I also sympathize about trying to exercise outdoors in Texas in the summer. I've come to the conclusion that in most parts of the country, outdoor activities are curtailed or cease in the winter and for us, it's the summer! I was cycling every day after work but I don't get off now until 8 and there's not enough light left by the time I could get started. And it gets too hot too soon in the morning (I'm definitely not a morning person, especially after working until 8!) So I'm going to go back to indoor exercising on my elliptical and home gym. I may not get to ride much again until fall. :(

[Beware the Beast Man]

13. Hey everybody!

BTBM here. Mrs. B and I are both ready to start a weight loss program. I'm 31 years old, 6'2", 330 pounds, and a smoker. At this rate, I need to do something ASAP. Also, I noticed a lack of exercise and proper diet has effected me mentally as well as physically- and I haven't been feeling too well lately. The brain is physical matter, after all.
So, I just wanted to say hello to everyone. I'm looking forward to sharing some tips with you, and receiving some in return! :hi:

[Longhorn]

35. Have you decided what your self-improvement plan is going to be?

Are you considering quitting smoking? I ask because I've heard quite a bit of discussion (on another diet board) about which to take on first or whether to tackle both at once.

I read a year or so ago that some doctors are saying that if they could only advise their patients to do one thing, quit smoking or lose weight, they would advise them to lose weight, that the health benefits were greater. That surprised me after all we've heard about the dangers of smoking, but I guess there are so many health risks associated with obesity that losing weight has more immediate effects.

Whatever your plans are, it's great to have you and Mrs. B with us! :hi:

[Beware the Beast Man]

48. It's quite the dilemma. Either lose weight and be cranky,

or gain weight and be able to breathe.
I'd have to say quitting smoking would be numero uno, this way I could actually have the lung capacity to take a brisk walk every now and then. I know that nicotine increases your metabolism, but if I knock out the smoking, I may be able to work out easier.

[Jamison]

15. Hi

I'm a 29 year old male who's 5'8" and weighs 290lbs. I am desperate to lose the weight b/c I recently had a check-up with my Dr. and he said if I didn't start losing a lot of weight that I might not live to see 35.:(

I just started a workout/excercise routine, and a 1,600 calorie a day diet about 10 days ago. I haven't lost any weight yet, but I understand that it does take time.

Funny thing is that I was not always like this. I weighed about 155 pounds up until September 2003, then something happened and I just started blowing up like a water balloon being filled with a fire hose.
I may go see my Dr. again soon, b/c people have told me that I could have some kind of problem with my thyroid, or it could be something else that's causing this.

I'm looking forward to being part of the group!

[Longhorn]

36. Talk about a wake-up call!

I think the advice to get yourself checked out again is good because that is a lot of weight to gain in such a short time, especially if you haven't altered your eating that much. From what I've read, thyroid problems are not always that easy to diagnose. The tests may show everything is all right, yet you may still have a problem.

If I learned anything the last time I lost weight, it was to have patience. You really have to accept your eating plan as a "plan for life," which is why it's important for it to be doing something healthy and reasonable; none of us can follow one of those extreme "fad" diets forever.

Good luck and let us know how it's going! :hi:

[wakemeupwhenitsover]

16. Hi everyone!

I ballooned up quite nicely, thank you very much, when I hit 30. I don't know what I weighed because I didn't have a scale. I mean, who cared what it was? I knew I was overweight. My oldest stepson (we had custody) married in '97. Well, knew the ex & all would be there. She'd seen me at both boys' graduation but this time I wanted to look good. Pure vanity. Made a tremendous effort to walk several miles a day, ate low-fat, did it all. Got down to an 8 & felt really good about myself. I kept it off for several years & now it's creeping back up. I'm not at my fattest but if I don't do something now I soon will be. Hubby & I started walking, but we're not as good as we should be. We need to get more consistency. I tried the Atkins & my hair fell out in chunks. I still try to watch my bad carb (sugar, flour) intake. I think for me it's excise, exercise, exercise. I would love to do a daily log like they do in that other forum where they're into extreme fitness, only ours could be realistic for us.

Terrific idea for a group & I'm glad to be here.

best

[Longhorn]

37. Exercise is definitely a big part of my plan, too.

My problem is that I keep trying this and that and haven't had a cohesive plan for awhile. And the way I operate, I need a regular plan because I have somewhat of an "all or nothing" personality. If I'm not doing it "right", I won't do it at all. I fight it but there it is. :shrug:

I've heard about that reaction to Atkins! I hope it grew back okay! :D

[CaliforniaPeggy]

17. Hi, everybody!

I've been struggling with my weight all my life. I'm now 61, and weigh 167 pounds. I'm 5'8" tall. In 1999, I weighed nearly 200 pounds, and didn't feel well, plus was struggling with high blood pressure. And every trip my husband and I would take would just wear us out. We'd come home and swear up and down that the next trip we'd be in shape. One year, we finally bit the bullet and started to lose weight. Diets don't work for me. I need to eat what I always do, just less of it. And I discovered that I had to exercise also, preferably at a gym. It seems if I have to go somewhere then I will. Plus now I have gym buddies, and we all reinforce each other, and this helps a lot. I need to lose about 20 more pounds, and this is proving to be very difficult. It seems that the closer you get to your ideal weight, the harder the body hangs on to the pounds. So I go to the gym, and try to watch what I eat. It takes a lot of time and patience. I don't care how long it takes, but I do want to get slimmer and have my BP lower.

I'm sure belonging to this group will help all of us! I'm glad we're here together...

[Longhorn]

38. How did you find your gym buddies?

I'd love to have someone with which to exercise. My husband is thin and active (he's a remodeling contractor) so he doesn't feel the need to exercise. When we got the elliptical and, later, the home gym, he tried them a few times and just didn't get into it. We just got bikes for our summer birthdays (we both turn 50) but he doesn't ride unless I nag him and then, it's only with me maybe once a week. For him, it's work, work, work! So I'm pretty much on my own.

I even had trouble deciding which of the four dogs to take for a walk. No matter who I take, the others stand at the gate and look sad. I tried taking all four at a time but that's a joke. :D

[CaliforniaPeggy]

57. Sorry, I should have clarified:

My gym buddies are friends I made at the gym; I didn't take my friends there with me! My gym is a small, friendly place and people just naturally chat there...that's how I got them!

[Longhorn]

58. Oh, that's really cool!

I'm afraid my only gym buddies are my dogs and the TV! :D

[Dastard Stepchild]

18. Hi all!

I just joined Weight Watchers, and I may throw in some of the guidelines from the South Beach Diet (my aunt lost 50 lbs on that diet!). I am 5'2" and at this time weigh about 145. I'd like to get it down to about 125. In 1998, I weighed 225 lbs. So, I've lost a lot of weight, but I stopped short of my goal. I'd love to get back on the wagon and shed these last 20 lbs. It's been a REAL struggle. Hopefully this group will help motivate me. :)

[Mrs_Beastman]

21. ugh..! the plateaus are so tough!

We are here for you!Have patience!

[Dastard Stepchild]

53. Plateaus are HORRIBLE!

I mean, I am at a real loss for words. These last 20 pounds have been such a headache. I need to sit down and objectively think about what it is I am doing that may be preventing the loss. I know it can be done, but I'm not entirely sure what it standing in the way.

Thanks for the encouragement!

stephanie

[Cassandra]

23. I just joined Weight Watchers today...

and I'm already depressed. I feel like I can't eat anything I like (which I guess is the point, no pun intended). I'm 50, 5'7", and have just been informed that I'm 250 pounds, which means I gained 15 pounds since November (right after the election, my acid reflux returned so badly I could hardly get around for coughing). I do crunches every morning, I'm working back to my every other day free weights and I'm doing a 1 1/2 hour dance/movement class three times a month. I also need to get out and walk more often. Fortunately, here in NYC, walking is pretty easy and lots of window shopping to be done in any direction. My biggest problem is that I can't tolerate green and/or leafy vegetables, which really restricts my choices. Sigh!!!!!!

[Longhorn]

40. I think you'll find that Weight Watchers is more flexible

than you may think. At least, it was when I was a member years ago. If you choose to splurge on something, you just cut back somewhere else. It may be more restrictive at first so that you have a big motivating loss in the beginning but it gets better.

How cool to live in NYC! I'd love to be able to walk or ride my bike to get around!

[Cassandra]

60. Thanks, today was better.

I have found myself with 5 spare points after dinner, so I had two little pieces of really good chocolate. I can still have some strawberries and a sugar-free fudgsicle if I want one. I also walked for an hour today. This better work.

[Longhorn]

62. I'll be joining you Monday!

I joined WW Online today but we're having a college graduation party for our son-in-law tomorrow so I'll start Monday. I poked around at the site a bit ago and I think it will be kind of fun to use it to track my eating and points.

[Dastard Stepchild]

54. I think it will be a matter of learning the WW system....

it seems like once you get that down pat, it will all be a little easier. We'll muddle through together! :)

[Cassandra]

61. Thanks.

I'm glad I'm starting this in the spring/summer, when a wide variety of fruit is available.

[Longhorn]

39. I'm a lifetime member of Weight Watchers -- I even worked for them

for awhile. I was one of the people who takes your money and weighs you in. I maintained while I worked for them because I had to stay within five pounds of goal in order to keep working. I've thought about going back. As a lifetime member, I would only have to pay for the meetings I attend.

You've already had so much success! I hope you'll be sharing what you've learned with us.

[Dastard Stepchild]

55. Yeah....

I thought that might be a great source of motivation... actually working for WW. If I lose the 20 lbs, maybe they'll have something for me. :)

[lavenderdiva]

64. hi sjbech!

how did you lose from 225 down to 145? That is a tremendous accomplishment already! Please share the plan that you succeeded with so far....

[Dastard Stepchild]

65. Portion control, portion control and portion control....

oh.. and exercise. :)

I used to eat until I was simply stuffed. And then I would eat some more. Lots of emotional eating, really. Now, when I find the urge to eat, I try to remember to ask myself, "Am I eating because I feel hungry or because I feel upset?" If it is because I am hungry, I eat. But if I am not hungry, I try to figure out what is going on.

I've always had to work very hard to keep weight off. All the women in my family have meat on their bones. ALL of them. So it is really a challenge for me. I am trying to be more active. I have noticed that I simply cannot lose (or keep) weight off without activity. So that is the piece that I am trying to focus on most at this point.

I have to sit down, though, and really think about why these last 20 lbs have been such a struggle for me. But I am very happy with the success I have had thus far, and with how I have been able to keep it off for these years.

:)

[seemunkee]

19. Hi all

I'm 48 5'7" and 174lb. I was down to 152 at this time last summer and stopped counting calories and started lifting heavy. I knew I would put on some weight but I let it get out of control. Now it's time to hack some of the fat off. I'm going to start counting calories again and work on doing more cardio and hopefully drop half the weight I gained by the end of the summer.

In the exercise forum we do a daily shout out of our work outs. What about a weekly shout out of our loss/gains(and lets face it this will happen sometimes no matter what our best intentions)? No ridicule/no judgements, just the facts.

[Longhorn]

41. I like a weekly progress thread.

As you've noticed in E&F, the key is one member who mostly keeps it going. Same in our Classic Films group, where one member mostly posts the daily Turner Classic Movies schedule, since that's where most of us watch our classic movies.

Maybe you could start the weekly thread and keep it going till we get the hang of it? Thanks for the suggestion!

[Dastard Stepchild]

59. I really like that idea...

Holding myself up to standards that I have made public does keep me motivated. :)

[MissMillie]

70. I'd go that even one further

what about a daily "I'm on track" sort of post?

Not necessarily a "I didn't cheat" because the nature of some nutritional programs and dietary goals sometimes allows people to have a sweet here or there (at least they SHOULD).

[calico1]

20. Hi everyone.

I am glad this message board is up and running!

My story:

I turned 47 in March. Up until I was about 35 I had no weight problem at all. In fact, growing up I was skinny, skinny. At around 35 I discovered I could no longer just eat whatever and not put on weight. Exercising more and being more careful seemed to keep the weight gain at bay although I had gained about 12 lbs from when I was in my 20's. I am 5'3" and very small boned so if I weigh more than 135 or so at a max, its a lot of weight on me and I look flabby, get a spare tire, etc. I went to Weight Watchers about 2 years ago and slimmed down to 128 lbs. That was great. But like a lot of people, after a while I just couldn't keep it up and slowly put on back the weight I had started WW with--142. And then some. I am at about 148 lbs. now and I feel terrible. For about the last 6 months I have just been eating mindlessly, my workout routine is non existent. I know what I need to do but I am just not doing it. I start out meaning to start fresh. But each time I do this I fall right back into my destructive habits. So I am hoping that with support from you guys I can get back on track. I'll be looking forward to posting and reading this board. Hope we get lots of posts!

[Longhorn]

42. I'm already feeling inspired just having this group up and running!

The fact is, we all know what we have to do. The hard part is figuring out the hows and whens and those will be different for a lot of us. But it does help me to hear your stories and learn from each others' experiences.

Are you thinking about trying WW again or something else?

[calico1]

66. Well, like a lot of you I tried different

types of diets. I find personally that if I eat too many starchy things I feel hungry all day. I feel best eating more protein. But I don't want to give up my bread either! LOL.

[Mrs_Beastman]

22. Hello everyone..Hi Long horn!

Mr B and I are here. We were both pleasantly plump were we met. I've been overweight since I was a kid. I was content with my body because I was curvy in the right places. Now, I not...I'm pudgy. Looking at pics, it is obvious we have both gained. I think from being content and happy(I found the love of my life and we both like mexican) and stress (two layoffs and sick family members.

I've lost and gained this weight a dozen times...My main goal is to do something this time I can do for the rest of my life,even when stressed. And ,also, exercise for cardio health and yoga for peace of mind.

[Longhorn]

45. What a great story, that you've found the "love of your life!"

It always helps when the spouse is supportive and in your case, actually sharing the experience with you!

In reading this thread, I've noticed that we're all looking for a "life" plan, not a crash diet, and that's really good news! It means it will take longer but the results should be healthier and long-lasting! :hi:

[auntAgonist]

26. Hi Everyone!

I'm so pleased to see the group getting underweigh! (spelling intentional).
I have been morbidly obese for a LONG time. I've tried every diet going with limited successes. I lose a few, gain a few, lose a few give up for a while etc etc. My mother and her mother and sisters were/are diabetic and there is a history of Cancer in our family too. My mother passed away due to colon cancer. I am/was at great risk of not enjoying good health. I have had weight loss surgery, wait, .. don't stop reading!! My surgery was in March of this year, and I'm doing quite well. I can eat almost anything just in small portions. My problem is I'm not getting enough protein! I need to eat 80grams a day. I'm looking forward to conversing with you all, and hearing about your successes and sharing recipes perhaps(?).
My starting weight in March (15th) was 291, my weight today is 236.

[Longhorn]

46. Congratulations on your success so far!

Oh, my, 55 pounds in just over two months! You'll be going through clothes like crazy!

Have you checked into the various nutrition bars for protein? I love Luna Bars -- they're developed especially for women and I believe each bar has 10 grams of soy protein and they're about 170-180 calories each. They also contain calcium and folic acid. They have all kinds of flavors and taste great. At my grocery store (H.E.B.) they cost 99 cents each.

You'll blow us away with your weight loss, but I know you're looking for a good, healthy eating plan for the long run, too, so that you keep it off, just like the rest of us! :hi:

[auntAgonist]

69. thanks Longhorn!

The weight loss is tremendous. I've been experimenting with different protein bars and drinks. for the most part they taste horrible. I've realized though that I do better with soy protein than whey, so I've ordered some stuff from www.RevivalSoy.com they have some great tasting snacks that would be good for anyone who loves crunchy and salty but doesn't want the fat that comes in potato chips etc.
I'm not worried about regaining weight, the type of surgery I had prevents that from happening and, because of that I have to be very careful to get in all the protein and supplements that I need on a daily basis. It's a learning experience for sure.

thanks again
aA.
aka
kesha

[SmileyBoy]

47. Hi everyone.

I'm 22 years old, 5'10" and about 245 pounds. I'm roughly 50 pounds overweight. I've completely cut myself off of sugar soda-pop for the last three weeks now, and I'm starting to go to the gym regularly. In other words, I'm in the early stages of losing 50 pounds. I'm trying to integrate more fruits into my diet (bananas and orange juice), and I'm eating those low-fat Kettle Krisps potato chips from the natural foods aisle of the grocery store instead of Doritos or Fritos.

So basically I'm at the beginning of a long journey. Hi all.:hi:

[Longhorn]

50. What a great start!

You've made some wise substitutions that are probably not a big deal to you but could make a big difference in your weight. Good for you!

[fortyfeetunder]

49. Hi y'all

I had lost about 26 lbs (need to lose 60) but have gained all but 16 of it back. So I am starting almost all over again. I have had a stressful couple of years. I recognized the down turn I was on a serious plateau.

We had a Weight Watchers at Work but the company blew that out of the water saying they had to have a minimum of 20 people (at the same time they were laying off people) and then the program fizzled....

I hope I can find some support here that I can't find at home. My spouse hasn't been supportive of my efforts to lose. And I have to lose this weight this time around because I know of the genetic odds against me.

[Longhorn]

51. Do you know anything about the Weight Watchers online plan?

I was just checking their site to see about meetings near me and came across their online program. I'm off to exercise right now so I don't have time to check it out but I was thinking that might be a great way for me to do it. If you check it out, let me know what you think!

[fortyfeetunder]

67. I might do the online WW program

Our former WW advisor has other plans, so I doubt if we'll see another class at our facility. I am a fan of online education...we do get a discount at work, I think it's $49 for 6 months.

[yellowdogintexas]

52. This is a great idea! I am another who packed it on with a baby

and never lost the last 20...then it just sort of started creeping up and now I am heavier than I was on the day she was born..it is just arranged differently.

NO ONE believes I weigh what I actually weigh, mostly because it is spread around rather well. I just want to get rid of the tummy fat as it is the part which makes me the most miserable.

To get back to my favorite weight would require a weightloss of around 60 pounds. I would be happy with a loss of 30 pounds. I would be able to shop freely for slacks and skirts in the petite departments then. As a short woman with large breasts, clothes shopping is hell. I am a perfect (LOL) 18P, in pants and skirts, and boy is that a hard size to find. My upper body is a whole different size territory. I am not carrying that awful pad of fat on my back that many women seem to get,even at my weight I wear a 38 DDD bra and can wear a 36 DDDD when I can find one.

I tried South Beach but damn, I missed my Heart Association recommended gigunda bowl of rough cut oatmeal every morning. And I need THAT for cholesterol issues.

Wonder how many points of Weight Watchers are in a 1 1/2 cup cooked oatmeal serving? With 2 tsp of light olive oil and a little brown sugar??????????????? LOL But I get grumpy if I don't have the oats.

I have been concentrating lately on packing in the veggies and fruit. My company cafeteria offers a nice meat with 2 veggies every day and I usually eat that as my main meal of the day. Then I eat salad, or something from the grill w/steamed veg at home, or sometimes just a couple of poached eggs and some toast.

Also, garden work has been good for me. We have a Y membership and I need to get back there, to use the pool and other airconditioned modes of exercise in the Texas heat.

Glad to be here.

[Longhorn]

56. Since we seem to have a lot of WW members here,

I'll bet someone could tell you how many points in your oatmeal.

I finally got around to weighing myself this morning and was pleased to find out that I don't weigh as much as I thought I did. This means I need to lose about 30 pounds, same as you.

I admire anyone who manages to grow a garden in Texas! The last time I tried a vegetable garden was the during what turned out to be "The Heat Wave of 1980." Not a great start! :D

Glad to have you! :hi:

[MissHoneychurch]

68. Hello everybody

I am not really overweight but still need to lose about 10 pounds. I hate not to fit in the clothes anymore I bought last year. In February I started going to the gym but didn't change my eating pattern yet.

[Longhorn]

72. Hello and sorry I missed your intro!

Exercise is great and probably the best way to lose weight anyway, though it never hurts to eat healthy and control portions. Good luck!

[loudestchick]

71. I know that I'm late to join this wagon train...but here goes.

I'm 36 (almost 37) and at 5'9" I weigh an embarrassing 238lbs. I had breast reduction surgery and intended to get healthy once the weight was reduced in my chest. It's been almost 2 yrs since my surgery and I'm not making much progress. My doctor is going to up my dosage of Synthroid...I hope it helps. I feel miserable in this body, but I hate to exercise.

[Longhorn]

73. Your stats are similar to mine a couple of years ago.

I'm almost 50 but two years ago, I was up to 232 at 5'8". I lost about 60 pounds but I've gained about half of it back. So now I'm focusing mainly on exercise and journaling what I eat.

I hope the Sythroid adjustment works. This stuff is hard enough without our bodies working against us! Welcome to the group!