Struggling to lose that last 26lbs

crystalmorrison378

I've been doing this since March and I've lost 73lbs. I have 26 more to go b4 I reach my goal. Problem is I'm really struggling with cravings and eating stuff I shouldn't. It's much worse now then it was when I first started. I'm so close but yet so far away So how do you deal with the cravings and not give in to the doughnuts & chocolate ice cream? It's like I do very well for a few weeks and then bam! The cravings take over! I haven't gained any weight back but I'm afraid if I continue like this I will!

chocolate_owl

You've come so far! You've been at this for a long time. Some things to consider:

-It's ok to have a doughnut or some ice cream in moderation. Eating one doughnut that fits in your calorie goals will not derail you.

-If you have a tendency to binge on these items, perhaps find alternatives that satisfy the cravings without causing binges. For example, I find a small piece of dark chocolate to be just as satisfying as a serving of ice cream, but it's a lot less calories.

-Chew gum or suck on a peppermint until the craving passes.

-Occasionally, me wanting something like ice cream is really my body looking for quick-release energy because I'm tired - in this case, I try to get more sleep.

-Do you notice these cravings corresponding with TOM? If you're doing good for a few weeks and then get cravings, it's possibly caused by your period. Personally, I make room in my calories to indulge that during the few days where I'm feeling that way. I'm already cranky enough.

-You're probably experiencing dieter's fatigue this far in. You may want to consider a diet break for a week or two where you eat at maintenance. This will give your hormones a chance to recover, and you may find eating more for a while will reduce your cravings. (Note: you will probably gain a few lbs as your glycogen stores will be replenished. This is normal. It's not fat. Do not panic.)

-Have you decreased your weight loss rate? With only 26 lbs left to lose, you should be shooting for 1 lb/week instead of 1.5 or 2 lbs. Once again, more calories might help reduce cravings.

Hope some of that helps. If you'd like to read more about a diet break, check out this article: http://www.bodyrecomposition.com/fat-loss/the-full-diet-break.html/