New to mfp

Peaches363

Hi there I'm new to mfp looking for tips and inspiration? Last week was my 1st week and I've lost 4lbs

100_PROOF_

Hello and welcome!

NovusDies

Peruse the Success Stories forum and pay attention to picture threads. If they can do it why can't you and me?

Some of your initial loss will have been water weight so expect that to fluctuate up and down. It is hard to learn that when the scale goes up that you didn't do anything wrong but you need to believe it.

Get a food scale and weigh everything so you log correctly. Log every bite so you gain discipline over what goes into your day's calories.

"Healthy" foods are not free. In fact, some traditionally "healthy" foods like almonds can wipe out your entire day's worth of calories if you eat them without portion control.

Be kind to yourself. This is not a time to punish yourself for weight gain by being nasty and strict to yourself. Go at a weight loss pace that is comfortable for you and your situation. Understand that the harder you are on yourself the more likely you are to retaliate. Satisfy cravings by portion control and planning. It is better to satisfy in advance than let something get out of control.

Keep it simple. You only need to stay at a calorie deficit to lose weight. If controlling carbs, as an example, makes appetite control easier for you don't have to go to extremes like Keto or even Atkins. You can simply lower your carbs a little until you are comfortable. Experiment and understand that any day that does not go to plan is a chance to learn how to make the next day better not a reason to be angry or disappointed.

Your daily calorie goal is a tool. Think of it like a hammer. It can be used to help construct a new you but it can also be used to smash your diet. If eating more means not going to bed hungry and miserable you need to eat more. If this happens too often and you need help experimenting with hunger control ask for it here.

mbaker566

good info above...
read the stickies.