Getting started...again...sigh
mrskmill
Posts: 8 Member
Hi everyone! I used to use this app a couple of years ago and lost about 30 pounds before I got off track. And now I have a desk job so I am almost back to where I started. I love food and I don’t love exercise so it’s a struggle, but a struggle I’m determined to win. I’m 36, married for 18 years and have a 16 year old daughter. My long term goal is to lose 115 pounds, but I want to focus more on changing my lifestyle than focusing on a number for right now. I don’t have any friends in my life, just me and the husband and daughter. And my dog! Anyone can add me...I would love the support and love to support you!
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Replies
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I'm right there with you. I lost about 40 pounds in 2014, but it wasn't a lifestyle change. The weight has slowly come back and then some. I'm 33 and had my first baby last year and now my weight is just out of control. My long term goal is to lose 85 pounds, but I'm starting with just wanting to be a better example for my little one!5
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I understand where you are coming from. I love food!! I don't mind exercise, but i don't have any one to do it with. My husband is not interested in losing weight and I don't have any friends. I am 35 and my current weight is 304 lbs. My long term goal is to lose 150 lbs, but honestly I just want to feel better. I don't have any children and that is another reason that i want to lose weight. So I am doing this whole weight loss thing on my own. Thanks for sharing some of your story.13
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I am in the same boat. Back in 2015 my weight had got up to 387. I love food and ate whatever I wanted, whole pizzas, 4-6 donuts at a crack, dipping Snickers into chocolate pudding, spending 12-15 bucks just on myself when I went to fast food, whatever I wanted I did.
My life is pretty much just my wife and I but we started working on portion control to start and at 356 I started doing low carb/high protein from my hospital's bariatric clinic. I started walking throughout the neighborhood and over the next year or so I got down to 295 and then started going back up until at 356 we started it again back at the beginning of March.
The wife and I committed to going to Planet Fitness 3 times a week. We do 30 minutes right now, she rides a bike, I do the treadmill and between that being the only exercise and eating better I was down to 303 as of Friday. She was in the 215 range to start and is now down to 194 as of Thursday, the first time below 200 in around 25 years.
It isn't easy mentally. We all want the things we want but you just have to try and fit them in. Some days that means eating a little lighter throughout the day to compensate for a bigger dinner than normal, some days that means simply writing off the day and going forward rather than feeling like a failure.
We are still looking at this as a lifestyle change and seeing progress helps. When she went to the doctor on Thursday she got glowing praise for all we have been doing and how it has affected her diabetes. She had just started on insulin a couple months prior with a fasting blood sugar of 356. After 10 units of lantus once a day as well as 2 metformin (which she was already taking), with the weight loss, working out and diet change, her sugar was down to 117 and her A1C was down from 11.7 to 6.4 (taking Lipitor). All good things that are benefits of us doing this.
Her son is getting married in a little over a week and rather than simply finding a dress that "covers the nakedness" she was able to see herself in it and think, "Damn I look hot in this dress." Today, while I hated the idea of the expense, we went out and ended up buying the first suit I have ever owned and I look good in it. It is something I would never have done before.
You can do this, it is just a matter of finding a plan that works for you and sticking with it. For those looking to lose a lot, talk to your doctor and get a referral to a bariatric clinic for the non-surgical plans. It is how I got started and they were able to give me information and a plan that worked based on my insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. Calories in, Calories out has a lot of truth for weight loss but depending on your specific body issues, there can be other things within that that can help or hinder your progress and without knowing some of the stuff specific to you, you may not even be aware of it.
Oh, and as for having a desk job being a reason for why you are back to where you were before...... I drive a forklift 8-12 hours a day, then sit in the breakroom during breaks, then sit in the car I drive home in and sit at the computer or lie in bed at home. You just need to do SOMETHING to get started. Try and get a girls thing going and see if your daughter will go for walks around the neighborhood with you or join an inexpensive gym like Planet Fitness (there is one in Seneca and Easley), and maybe see if she will join with you. We opted for the Black Membership and use the hydromassage table and lounges as our after workout reward.
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My story is very much the same. I’m 36, married for 17 years and have a 15 year old son. I used the app years ago and lost 60lbs, right down to my goal weight of 150. Then life happened (lots of long stories and excuses) and now I’m up to 230 and just got started again last week. I also have a desk job and work from home most of the week so I really don’t move around! I’m a total foodie and used to love to work out but now I hate it. I lost so much muscle that I can’t even do a set of squats. I’m not going to let that stop me. I am taking a daily 30 minute walk to get some leg muscle back and doing any squats and lunges that I can each day, even if it’s just a few.
If we can make it through the first few weeks then it will be a habit and we will be rolling! Hang in there with me4 -
Same here. I used the app in 2013 & lost 42lbs but then I broke my ankle (running) & it all went out the window. Same story too few friends & so it is just me & husband. He’s pretty supportive although only a bit overweight whereas I’m 236lbs at 1.6m tall (5’6). I would like to reach 9.5 stone (133-135). People say that’s too low but actually it is bang in the middle of healthy BMI for me/my height.
So, I started calorie counting last week & static bike (30 mins) due to the weak ankle. But I think the ankle is weak because of all the weight I’m carrying. I’m pretty sure I’m pre-diabetic (I’ve not had any symptoms or weird glucose ranges - stays between 4-8mmols) but it’s only a matter of time. This week I’ve been fighting horrendous fluid retention and my BP is up (had always been low). Reading this afternoon is 132/87 (pre-hypertension by UK standards). I’ve also started Couch-to-5K. I detest exercise but running works for me - always has done. At my lowest weight of around 120lbs in my 30s I was running 40-50 miles a week & had done 4 marathons.
So, I’m 48 & need to get my backside in gear. I’m a community nurse so spend a lot of time driving ... but I know, I don’t really have any choice because my health is at huge risk right now. So I’m looking for lifestyle change buddies to hold me accountable. I need to do this & stick with it.5 -
I'm 59, 240, and hoping to get to a healthy weight in a slow and healthy manner. I started here 2 weeks ago--have had success with calorie counting before, but never stuck with it more than a 3-4 months and tried to lose weight too quickly (2 lbs/week). I'm already struggling with what to eat--because I can't seem to get enough protein and have too much sugar in my diet, according to MFP. I don't like to eat or cook meat or animal products, and eating healthy without those is the new part for me. You guys seem like a good group and I would love to join. How can we stay "together" as a group? It would be nice to have some place to check in--daily, weekly, as needed, esp. because many of us seem to be fairly isolated from a community of supporters IRL.4
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You guys seem like a good group and I would love to join. How can we stay "together" as a group? It would be nice to have some place to check in--daily, weekly, as needed, esp. because many of us seem to be fairly isolated from a community of supporters IRL.
This is exactly what I thought. I think it might be easy enough to just bookmark this discussion & return to it to update each day maybe..?!
I’m doing a low carb CICO approach right now. Not exactly ketogenic but not far away. I’m averaging around 20-30% carbs per day which works better for me as I have polycystic ovaries & insulin resistance. My main goals at the moment are to reduce my blood pressure & introduce a sustainable lifestyle change. If you don’t mind, I have gone through & added everyone.
Hello to everyone & hope you all have a great start to the week!!2 -
I used the app a few years ago....well "used" is quite an exaggeration, let's just say I downloaded it and that was pretty much the extent of it all. This time around, I am taking it one day at a time and sticking to the tracking. So far, off to a much better start this time around. 60+ days of tracking, weight is moving in the right direction and following the community section this time around. Seeing all of you committed to making these changes and sticking to them (bumps, cheats and all) goes a long way to making it easier to make better choices.
One day you do the inspiring, one day you get inspired - these community pages go a long way to helping everyone keep moving forward.
Feel free to drop me a line.2 -
I'm in the same boat as all of you. This is my 2nd time attempting this, but about the 3rd time within that 2nd time
It's a struggle, but any of you can feel free to add me if you like. It's much easier to do with friends. 3 -
Cath_Taylor wrote: »I think it might be easy enough to just bookmark this discussion & return to it to update each day maybe..?!
Ok, I've bookmarked this thread--easy enough. If we find it starts to get "crowded" (and I don't mean to sound unwelcoming, just want to be realistic about how many folks I can keep up with), I've got a FB group ready for anyone who also wants to try staying in touch that way.
I noticed that I must have used the app before b/c I had food items stored for my food diary. I have no memory of using it, ha. I lost 30 lbs or so in 2002 and again in 2009, but gained back that plus, each time. One thing I do remember from the venture in 2009: I really HATE chicken. I've been vegetarian much of my life and am thinking about going vegan, but I just don't know how to get the protein in without chicken or yogurt. My sister is losing very successfully on the "Eat To Live" plan, but she does not exercise or move as much as I do. I run/walk 3 times a week and walk at least 2-3 miles/day most days at work, plus sometimes just walking along my exercise route, so there are many days I'll get in about 5-6 miles, and lots of fresh air. I get hungry! So far (and I'm all of 2 weeks into this round), I'm managing ok, but still eating some yogurt. I reduced the yogurt these last 4 days or so and have definitely been hungrier. Thank goodness for the enormous red peppers at my local store--14 oz of sweet, juicy crunchiness! That's helping!
How has everyone's day been?
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Hey - can I join in?
I've always struggled with my weight, but about 5 years ago started having problems with my thyroid. My thyroid's gone now, and so is my health ... and i want it back! I need to lose about 75 lbs and get my stamina back.
I don't mind exercising, I just have to go slow because i'm easily winded. I'm using a stationary bike 30 minutes a day and am up to 6.5 miles (I know, if it was a real bike it would tip over going that slow, but I only made it 4 miles/30 minutes when I started, so I'm pretty pleased with the progress). Anyway, I'd love to do this journey with some new friends.2 -
I would hazard to guess all of us love food or else why would we be here on MFP and wanting to try and lose.
The exercise part you can work on, but the main thing is getting a handle on your calorie intake and eating less than you burn in order to lose weight.
You're right it takes an attitude of making changes that you can do for life.
You lost 30lbs before, you know how to do it, you have to ask yourself if what you did before was sustainable. That's the main thing, finding a way to eat which you enjoy but which also leads to weight loss.
All the best.2 -
Only joined this yesterday feel free to add me2
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Cath_Taylor wrote: »I think it might be easy enough to just bookmark this discussion & return to it to update each day maybe..?!
Ok, I've bookmarked this thread--easy enough. If we find it starts to get "crowded" (and I don't mean to sound unwelcoming, just want to be realistic about how many folks I can keep up with), I've got a FB group ready for anyone who also wants to try staying in touch that way.
I noticed that I must have used the app before b/c I had food items stored for my food diary. I have no memory of using it, ha. I lost 30 lbs or so in 2002 and again in 2009, but gained back that plus, each time. One thing I do remember from the venture in 2009: I really HATE chicken. I've been vegetarian much of my life and am thinking about going vegan, but I just don't know how to get the protein in without chicken or yogurt. My sister is losing very successfully on the "Eat To Live" plan, but she does not exercise or move as much as I do. I run/walk 3 times a week and walk at least 2-3 miles/day most days at work, plus sometimes just walking along my exercise route, so there are many days I'll get in about 5-6 miles, and lots of fresh air. I get hungry! So far (and I'm all of 2 weeks into this round), I'm managing ok, but still eating some yogurt. I reduced the yogurt these last 4 days or so and have definitely been hungrier. Thank goodness for the enormous red peppers at my local store--14 oz of sweet, juicy crunchiness! That's helping!
How has everyone's day been?
You are not alone...I don’t really like chicken either. I’m not a big meat person. I struggle with getting enough protein.0 -
LivingtheLeanDream wrote: »I would hazard to guess all of us love food or else why would we be here on MFP and wanting to try and lose.
The exercise part you can work on, but the main thing is getting a handle on your calorie intake and eating less than you burn in order to lose weight.
You're right it takes an attitude of making changes that you can do for life.
You lost 30lbs before, you know how to do it, you have to ask yourself if what you did before was sustainable. That's the main thing, finding a way to eat which you enjoy but which also leads to weight loss.
All the best.
Thank you so much! I think what it was/is...I get tired of logging every little thing! And trying to figure up if I can “afford” to eat this or that. My husband wanted to take me out to breakfast this morning, and while I thought it was nice, I had a little anxiety over it. Like oh no, I’ll have to log it and work my whole day of eating around it. But it wasn’t as bad as I thought because I made better choices than i would if I wasn’t logging and keeping within my calories.
It’s a learning process and figuring out what you can live with long term. I really enjoy the support and advice from all of you ladies who get it.
*forgot to mention, I also have hypothyroidism which also works against me. But like I’ve said, I’ve done it before. I know what to do. Just have to make it sustainable and stick with it.1 -
Glad I'm not alone in this from 2012 to 2014 I lost almost 100lbs. And now I'm more then what I was before (349lbs) thanks to starting work again, meeting the love of my life, depression and anxiety relapsing etc. Basically life.
Ready to do this again and absolutely smash it and maintain at my happy weight not gain.4 -
Not been a bad day diet & exercise wise. BP been up a fair bit. So much so that my 2 week wait to see if dropping a few pounds would help has been kicked to the curb. Couldn’t get in to see the Dr today so will try Thurs. a colleague GP I work with says its best to treat rather than wait-so I’ve had a thumping headache most of the day.
How has everyone's day been?1 -
I’m in the same boat as everyone here.. this is my second time using the app. My boyfriend and I started last Monday eating better and walking. He’s lost 8 pounds and I’ve lost 2... WTHECK! I love to see others supporting each other on here! So way to go everyone and good luck!2
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[quote="Cath_Taylor;c-42031051"
Not been a bad day diet & exercise wise. BP been up a fair bit. So much so that my 2 week wait to see if dropping a few pounds would help has been kicked to the curb. Couldn’t get in to see the Dr today so will try Thurs. a colleague GP I work with says its best to treat rather than wait-so I’ve had a thumping headache most of the day. [/quote]
Sorry about that headache! Don't answer if this is too personal--is the BP issue directly related to your weight, or is there something more going on? I had high blood pressure related to pregnancy--was developing pre-eclampsia, so I was induced at 35 weeks with 2nd baby (first came at 32 weeks, all on his own
Whatever the reason, I hope you get some relief quickly!
I have been hungrier again today and am breaking down and eating yogurt--it will put me way over on sugar, but still within my calories. I need to find an unsweetened yogurt or other "fast food" I can eat quickly, that has lots of protein, b/c I've been very dependent on yogurt to get me through hungry times in the past. Maybe I should keep a hunk of tofu around. Yuck.
So, what does everyone do for a living, and how does that affect your health and fitness? I'm a special ed teacher, high school level. I usually do really well with exercise during the summer and then totally fall off the wagon when school starts again--I'm so tired!! And then winter hits, making it even harder. Just excuses, I know. This summer, I'll be planning for those challenges. As for the healthy eating part--the school day is hectic, and sometimes I just forget to eat until I'm too hungry (which is how I got used to keeping yogurt around in the first place). But I usually don't take time to eat enough during the day and end up too hungry and tired at home in the evening, which leads to being sedentary and overeating.
Any tips for getting through my work day in a more healthy manner will be much appreciated!1 -
Sorry about that headache! Don't answer if this is too personal--is the BP issue directly related to your weight, or is there something more going on? I had high blood pressure related to pregnancy--was developing pre-eclampsia, so I was induced at 35 weeks with 2nd baby (first came at 32 weeks, all on his own Whatever the reason, I hope you get some relief quickly!
Yes, probably directly weight related. The headache been the worst it’s been today. Saw Dr who started meds. I’m probably stressing with work too & I have post-grad school exams coming up, but Dr thought it safest to treat rather than wait to see if I can lose weight (she wasn’t suggesting I couldn’t but with stress she appreciated it isn’t easy).I have been hungrier again today and am breaking down and eating yogurt--it will put me way over on sugar, but still within my calories. I need to find an unsweetened yogurt or other "fast food" I can eat quickly, that has lots of protein, b/c I've been very dependent on yogurt to get me through hungry times in the past. Maybe I should keep a hunk of tofu around. Yuck.
I tend to use mini cheese squares. To be honest though I’ve been lower carb (rather than the 20g cut off) and I’m finding I don’t get hungry. If honest I’m not too fussed about my breakdown of foods at the moment. I’m just trying to focus on losing sustainably.So, what does everyone do for a living, and how does that affect your health and fitness?
Any tips for getting through my work day in a more healthy manner will be much appreciated!
I’m a Community Nurse which means I often start early and finish late. Stressful job. Late home a lot of days & basically I find working the exercise into my day helps mostly. So my step count increases by parking my car further away from the patient’s house.I plan my meals & take them with me - all weighed & measured.
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Hi. Same Same... I was very vigilant years ago. I hit my goal weight and stayed there for a couple years until I started making small exceptions here and there on food being allowed in the house. Years later, health issues and eating whatever everyone else was eating have led me back to the same weight I started at in 2010.
Sooo disappointing but looking back how could it not end like this, or worse! I am back on MFP. Good days and bad days as far as keeping track but I am conscious of everything I eat.
I had a bigger friend group back then but I quit drinking a couple years ago and found out some people (ie. my "friends") were uncomfortable around a non-drinker. So it is just me and my boyfriend that weighs LESS than me.
I would love more friends... Please, ADD ME.3 -
I just dropped my dinner all over the floor. Can't make it again (not enough stuff in the house). Oh, well. I'll finish off the last bit of my daughter's burgers and fries--no calories in food left by the kids, right? Haha. Thank goodness the dog was around to eat it up and "clean" the mess.
I slept poorly last night after walking/jogging later than usual. It disrupts my sleep. So I'm just waiting for bedtime now, killing a bit of time online. I hope I wake up early tomorrow and can run then; morning runs are the best. I can't bring myself to set an alarm to run early, though. I figure I need the sleep if I don't wake up to the early birds and dawning sun.
My logging for today will be 75% guessing. Tomorrow will be better, and this is my first day without everything weighed, so I guess that's ok.1 -
Follow me on Instagram for weightloss motivation!
@Lindsaykathryn1
I am also looking for new friends on here! I have lost 50lbs since 12-29-17 and still going!!1 -
Lindsaykathryn wrote: »Follow me on Instagram for weightloss motivation!
@Lindsaykathryn1
I am also looking for new friends on here! I have lost 50lbs since 12-29-17 and still going!!
Awesome! So inspiring! Sent you a friend request here and followed your Instagram. Your results are amazing!1 -
+1 Took a quick spin over to The Gram and WOW! Great work!0
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I'm getting started again too. It's difficult but we can do it. Add me.
Join my group. Just started it today.
https://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/group/127229-p-c-o-s0
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