What was your "time to get healthy" moment?
ekboh
Posts: 53 Member
Just curious what spurred others to start getting healthy, losing weight, and joining MFP?
For me, I had been unhappy with my weight, looks, and size for a while. I had steadily gained weight over the past 2 years or so. A couple weeks ago I went to a concert and had an outfit picked out including new shorts I bought special. Those shorts got a stain on them right before we left, and I had no other shorts to wear because none of my summer clothing from prior years fit anymore. I had 1 pair of jeans that fit well and had to wear those. It really upset me, probably more than it should have, to have my outfit ruined and to have no other options.
That feeling of helplessly crying over shorts for some reason was my trigger to start MFP and get myself back to a place where I am healthier and feel positive about myself and my body. I've been spending a lot of energy hating my weight, my pants size, my body shape... time to make a change.
What about you?
For me, I had been unhappy with my weight, looks, and size for a while. I had steadily gained weight over the past 2 years or so. A couple weeks ago I went to a concert and had an outfit picked out including new shorts I bought special. Those shorts got a stain on them right before we left, and I had no other shorts to wear because none of my summer clothing from prior years fit anymore. I had 1 pair of jeans that fit well and had to wear those. It really upset me, probably more than it should have, to have my outfit ruined and to have no other options.
That feeling of helplessly crying over shorts for some reason was my trigger to start MFP and get myself back to a place where I am healthier and feel positive about myself and my body. I've been spending a lot of energy hating my weight, my pants size, my body shape... time to make a change.
What about you?
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Replies
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My doctor refused to renew a prescription I need to function like a human being because I had too many risks of death happening.
I spent a couple days crying my eyes out, because I was going to get sick, ruin our lives, and it would be all my fault. Eventually some friends talked me down, so the calmer me decided to see if I couldn't get rid of some of those risks. Most of them were linked to being nearly 300 pounds, and googling weight loss app brought me here.
I'm tired of feeling helpless, trapped in my own skin.20 -
It's kind of embarassing and I hope doesn't offend anyone, but it's the truth. Around a month ago I made some stronger than intended..uh..brownie treats and had a piece on the weekend to relax, and when it kicked in I had a lot of deep long thoughts which resulted in a radical shift of my mindset. Taking care of myself didnt seem impossible anymore. I haven't been feeling well for a while now, in pain, uncomfortable in my own body, and I came to the realization that it is in my direct power to not only attain a daily caloric deficit, but also use foods that are balanced in nutrients, taste good and versatile. There hasn't been any temptation to stop and go back to my poor habits yet, and I'm already feeling much better 25 days later, which is making exercise much less painful in the wrong ways. I definitely feel motivated to keep going.25
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mine isn't as severe or depressing as the others in this thread (hugs to all!). i simply got stuck in the back of my daughter's car at her graduation. my fat a** couldn't move. the looks i got, and the look of horror on my poor daughter's face, gave me the kick i needed.14
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My doctor refused to renew a prescription I need to function like a human being because I had too many risks of death happening.
Good for you! So many people don't see that as a wakeup call. I once overheard a guy on the bus complaining because he says his doctor called him fat and that being fat was causing his conditions! Now this guy was visibly obese, not to be judgmental, it was obvious. He stated he had diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, etc... refusing to admit it's related to weight. Get real, dude! Good for you for taking charge of your health!!6 -
mine isn't as severe or depressing as the others in this thread (hugs to all!). i simply got stuck in the back of my daughter's car at her graduation. my fat a** couldn't move. the looks i got, and the look of horror on my poor daughter's face, gave me the kick i needed.
Good for you, whatever gets you here. I feel somewhat the same, like my push to get here was due to embarrassment I guess. But moreso my motivation is to never feel like that again!3 -
It's kind of embarassing and I hope doesn't offend anyone, but it's the truth. Around a month ago I made some stronger than intended..uh..brownie treats and had a piece on the weekend to relax, and when it kicked in I had a lot of deep long thoughts which resulted in a radical shift of my mindset. Taking care of myself didnt seem impossible anymore. I haven't been feeling well for a while now, in pain, uncomfortable in my own body, and I came to the realization that it is in my direct power to not only attain a daily caloric deficit, but also use foods that are balanced in nutrients, taste good and versatile. There hasn't been any temptation to stop and go back to my poor habits yet, and I'm already feeling much better 25 days later, which is making exercise much less painful in the wrong ways. I definitely feel motivated to keep going.
Dude, that is actually pretty awesome. Good job for taking one moment and turning it into 25 days.7 -
in the late summer of 2013 I agreed to competed in a skating competition in spring of 2014 and I didn't want to look like a whale skating around. Plus I knew one of the dances we had to do was really hard so I had to be in shape, plus my weakling partner would have to lift me. I got to a good weight. I stick around here because it's like my conscience and I like tracking my exercise. It works people it's a great tool to have
My now I need to stay healthy moment was when I got the results of my shoulder MRI. There's a lot going on in my shoulder and I'm going to need surgery to repair it so with the prospect of being in a sling for up to 6 weeks looming I have decided i need to be in the best shape I can since I won't be very active for a bit10 -
It wasn't one moment or one thing it was an accumulation of things and moments.
- It was the embarrassment when someone would have to stand on the train because I was too big for them to squeeze into the seat beside me.
- It was wanting to run and play with the kids but having to tap out after only a minute or two because I just couldn't move without feeling like I was gonna drop
- It was having to sit on the sidelines while friends and family did activities because I was too large to take part.
- It was having to shop in speciality store for my clothes because no normal retailer carried clothes that fit me
- It was having the 5th blood test because the new doctor I was seeing was concerned
- It was because I was tired of being sick and sick of being tired
- It was because I started doing embarrassing things to hide the amount of food I was eating like ordering a second drink so that the person serving me would think that all the food I was buying for myself was actually for 2 people
- It was just time.18 -
6 weeks ago today, I was told by the practice nurse at my GP's surgery, that I was Type 2. The shock of that diagnosis ( and the possible consequences) made me determined to lose weight and become fitter. I have completely changed the way I eat. I no longer buy biscuits, cake or sweets. I'm loosely following the advice of a UK ''media' doctor, ie lowering my carb input, while eating healthy fats and protein. I allow myself the occasional treat, eg restaurant meals-last night, I had gammon steak, salad and a few chips/French fries. I lost exactly one stone in the first 2 weeks, which obviously isn't sustainable, but have lost another 8lb since- total loss of 22lbs. Haven't once felt hungry or deprived of my sugar 'fix'. I walk a little every day, or swim. (I wear a fitness tracker 24/7 too, which helps. Still a long way to go, but I'm looking forward to my next appt with my nurse, in August. Good luck to everyone else on this journey.8
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My reason is very trivial but it's my reason and that is I was tired of being skinny and felt self conscious of my shoulder blades sticking out so I started eating more and working out.12
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I've tried all the slimming clubs going but none stuck. I'd do well for a couple of months then start to resent the rules and overeat again. My husband got really ill, and when I was sat next to his hospital bed and the consultant told us it was a good job he was so fit and healthy before he fell ill otherwise he may not have made it, I realised I needed to change. I had a "general health" check coming up in 2 weeks at my doctors so also following I suspect the same "media" doctor as @Lindyloo54321 I lost a stone and a half before that appointment which meant all my markers for Diabetes, cholesterol etc were within normal limits. I'm now 2.5 stone down and continuing with MFP. I have to eat slightly less calories than maybe people would recommend as I have Hashimoto's and it is a hard slog but this is for me and I feel happy in my skin. About another 3 stone to go still, but it feels achievable this time as there is no pressure from anywhere to weigh every week or explain why I overate by half a chocolate digestive. MFP forums are truly inspiring too
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Wow! Well done you, for avoiding potential health issues found at your medical. Hope your husband is well now. I've also been down the route of slimming clubs- lost, then regained plus! Attendance at the clubs was mostly for vanity reasons, if I'm honest. This time it's different. After my diagnosis, my daughter immediately bought me the latest edition of a magazine called Top Sante, which had an article about reducing, or even reversing Diabetes T2. She also bought me a copy of 'the Doctor's' ( am I allowed to name him?) Blood Sugar Diet. Between them all, and the excellent MFP, my life is changing forever. Good luck.I've tried all the slimming clubs going but none stuck. I'd do well for a couple of months then start to resent the rules and overeat again. My husband got really ill, and when I was sat next to his hospital bed and the consultant told us it was a good job he was so fit and healthy before he fell ill otherwise he may not have made it, I realised I needed to change. I had a "general health" check coming up in 2 weeks at my doctors so also following I suspect the same "media" doctor as @Lindyloo54321 I lost a stone and a half before that appointment which meant all my markers for Diabetes, cholesterol etc were within normal limits. I'm now 2.5 stone down and continuing with MFP. I have to eat slightly less calories than maybe people would recommend as I have Hashimoto's and it is a hard slog but this is for me and I feel happy in my skin. About another 3 stone to go still, but it feels achievable this time as there is no pressure from anywhere to weigh every week or explain why I overate by half a chocolate digestive. MFP forums are truly inspiring too
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Lindyloo54321 wrote: »Wow! Well done you, for avoiding potential health issues found at your medical. Hope your husband is well now. I've also been down the route of slimming clubs- lost, then regained plus! Attendance at the clubs was mostly for vanity reasons, if I'm honest. This time it's different. After my diagnosis, my daughter immediately bought me the latest edition of a magazine called Top Sante, which had an article about reducing, or even reversing Diabetes T2. She also bought me a copy of 'the Doctor's' ( am I allowed to name him?) Blood Sugar Diet. Between them all, and the excellent MFP, my life is changing forever. Good luck.
Hubby is completely better now thanks! Massive well done to you for changing your life. I actually found the blood sugar diet pretty easy with no hunger and very few cravings (my downfall!) although I'm much more relaxed now and try to stick to lower carbs (not carb free, I still like the odd slice of bread or a bit of rice and I'm a sucker for a roast potato) eating good fat which is hard when all your life you've tried to do the opposite and plenty of protein and veg. Simply because it suits me!! I try to avoid sugar and pastry because if I start I can't stop...
Hopefully you can reverse your diabetes, good luck with the nurse appt. in August let us know how it goes!!
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Lindyloo54321 wrote: »Wow! Well done you, for avoiding potential health issues found at your medical. Hope your husband is well now. I've also been down the route of slimming clubs- lost, then regained plus! Attendance at the clubs was mostly for vanity reasons, if I'm honest. This time it's different. After my diagnosis, my daughter immediately bought me the latest edition of a magazine called Top Sante, which had an article about reducing, or even reversing Diabetes T2. She also bought me a copy of 'the Doctor's' ( am I allowed to name him?) Blood Sugar Diet. Between them all, and the excellent MFP, my life is changing forever. Good luck.
Hubby is completely better now thanks! Massive well done to you for changing your life. I actually found the blood sugar diet pretty easy with no hunger and very few cravings (my downfall!) although I'm much more relaxed now and try to stick to lower carbs (not carb free, I still like the odd slice of bread or a bit of rice and I'm a sucker for a roast potato) eating good fat which is hard when all your life you've tried to do the opposite and plenty of protein and veg. Simply because it suits me!! I try to avoid sugar and pastry because if I start I can't stop...
Hopefully you can reverse your diabetes, good luck with the nurse appt. in August let us know how it goes!!
Hi both - I hit the T2 markers in February and also did the Blood Sugar diet - apart from still being fat
my markers are now back in the normal range. Reversing T2 is not possible for everyone but it is possible, esp if you are relatively new to the issue.
I started at 800 calories NET and that got nearly 40lb off in 13 weeks without any issues around hunger or how I felt. If anything it showed me how I really did not need to eat all the time and/or in case I could'nt eat later.....
MFP showed me I clearly didnt have a scooby-doo about portions sizes - the content wasnt too bad, there was just waaay too much of it.
Now I shift between 800 and 1500 NET depending on whats going on with life to get the 'last' 40lb off and I also feel way better for this way of eating.
For those who want some reading on this, this link give a lot of info about the potential to reverse T2 as well as how a lower than the often quoted 1200 calories can be nutritionally balanced when adhered to under the appropriate circumstances (so not for those with ED's, who are pregnant, under 16's etc).
https://www.ncl.ac.uk/magres/research/diabetes/reversal/#overview
P.S - I still think sugar and pastry are wonderful and evil in equal measure - just rarely worth the calorie 'spend'.1 -
@OooohToast We have a very similar outlook
you've done amazingly! I never hit those markers but I suspect I would have done if I hadn't taken action before the checkup.
Sugar and pastry used to rule my life - I would crave them both and usually give in. Recording what I eat is the key to success. Even If I have a food I wouldn't normally eat it goes down on the diary. I can openly admit to having days where my first 400 calories was made up of a brilliant tuna salad with olive oil then there would be an 800 calorie "blip" of 6 Warburtons potato cakes to make up my food for the rest of the day. What is so good is that even if this happens I know I'm not out of control, I just need to rein myself in and carry on. My head won't fall off and I don't need to explain it to anyone. I am in control, and I'm making choices for me. It's taken 47 years to understand that!!2 -
I was barely able to walk and the realisation that for once I will be doing something totally selfishly for myself! That was 451 days ago (and now 36 kg less) - thank you MFP and all those supportive members!11
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I went on a business trip to Mexico and struggled until I was sweating to get the seat belt buckled on the plane. As soon as I did the person in the window seat needed me to get up. To hell with this I thought.....11
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Wow, these long term members like @alinoveau @neugebauer52 and of course many more are so inspiring!!3
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I found out my company was relocating and I'd lose my job in a year. Around the same time, I caught my reflection in a mirror and realized my outside didn't match my inside. I wanted to be ready for interviews and whatever else came next. A year and a half and 45 pounds later, I saw my reflection in a window, in a great suit on my way to a meeting for my cool new job, and realized it worked!11
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I was fine being fat and happy at 45 but my cholesterol was deteriorating and I was starting to have more joint pain. So I decided to eat healthier and try and move more. I've been at 300 for last 25 years, ad I've been pretty healthy. I've been extremely content, but I'm married to a lovely woman and she needs me to be around as long as I can be so got to lose the weight.
Also as you age, you do want to be healthier because it makes it easier to deal with health issues. 11 -
I didn't really have a specific moment that sparked my most recent weight loss (this isn't the first time I've lost these pounds lol). Really it was a gradual, sweaty, red-faced journey to the realization that I needed to make changes because I was miserable. Summer 2018 was a doozy at 5'5" approaching 230lbs., and I was tired of saying to myself "I'm so sick of being fat". A few things contributed to my decision to make changes:
- I was busting out of most of my clothes. Often literally, as I would rub the thighs of my jeans so thin that they'd rip, or I'd tear out the button/zipper of my pants by stretching them to their max to get them to fit in the waist.
- I was hot and sweaty all summer regardless of what I was doing. Getting out of the shower was horrible because I'd start sweating as soon as I'd begin to dry off.
- I had a hard time keeping up on break time walks with my coworkers, and began to dread being asked to join.
- I knew my then-boyfriend viewed me differently, as I'd gained almost 90lbs overall since I'd met him. Let me clarify that I did NOT choose to lose the weight for him. I did it for myself, and it didn't matter anyway because we broke up a month after I began my journey (unrelated reasons).
- I spent the summer feeling dumpy, wearing almost nothing but long pants and big tee shirts.
- Just an overall feeling of what can only be described as "blahhh".
Aside from returning to college and leaving the toxic relationship I mentioned above, this has been the greatest thing I've ever done for myself. I decided to try running about a month into the process and have since fallen in love with the sport. My "run-versary" (a year from the date of my first run) will be on September 7th. 10 -
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Back in 2013 I went shopping in the Fall to get a dress for the High Holidays (Jewish Holidays) - I hadn't worn a dress in quite awhile - and obviously hadn't paid attention to my weight, which had been creeping up. I'm 5' 2" and have a very petite build - had a closet full of size 4 dresses. I grabbed a few dresses and headed to the changing rooms - was horrified to see that the size 4 did not remotely fit.....went back out and tried sizes 8 and 10 - they didn't fit either - ended up with a size 12 - and cried on my drive home. That night I found MFP, and buckled down. Lesson learned - mirrors don't lie!8
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Kathryn247 wrote: »Around the same time, I caught my reflection in a mirror and realized my outside didn't match my inside.
I love that. That's such a positive way to put it. I get really really down on myself and my appearance and that's a much better way to think of it! Congrats on all your hard work and success.
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Mine was just over 10 years ago a partner took a nude pic of me (:-0) and i realised I was officially 'plump'. Been up and down with it since then3
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I decided age 60 was too young too die. I have Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure. My doctor put the fear into me and I really starting researching what diabetes can do to the body. I am down 20 pounds and my blood pressure is almost into normal range. 50 pounds to go, but I have a determination that I have never had before.10
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I lost 40 pounds a few years ago here, and even though I didn't get to my goal, I felt fantastic. Then life happened. My dog died, my grandfather died, I ate my feelings. I slowly put on 20 pounds and yo-yoed there for a long while, which wasn't great, but could have been worse. And then I put 20 pounds more back on due to stress eating this last year. In May I stepped on the scale and was over 200 pounds, a thing I'd vowed I'd never let happen again. So I'm back counting every calorie and trying to prioritize my health as best I can. I still don't have the energy to do more than a few meandering walks with my dogs every day, which is something I need to keep working with my doctor on. But at least the scale is going the right direction.5
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@OooohToast We have a very similar outlook you've done amazingly! I never hit those markers but I suspect I would have done if I hadn't taken action before the checkup.
Sugar and pastry used to rule my life - I would crave them both and usually give in. Recording what I eat is the key to success. Even If I have a food I wouldn't normally eat it goes down on the diary. I can openly admit to having days where my first 400 calories was made up of a brilliant tuna salad with olive oil then there would be an 800 calorie "blip" of 6 Warburtons potato cakes to make up my food for the rest of the day. What is so good is that even if this happens I know I'm not out of control, I just need to rein myself in and carry on. My head won't fall off and I don't need to explain it to anyone. I am in control, and I'm making choices for me. It's taken 47 years to understand that!!
Same here - isnt it liberating ?!1 -
I resonate with all of the above, but mostly as life has been so chaotic around me, it hit me that I may not be able to control what happens around me, but I can control this, and maybe if I can start getting these pounds off again, just maybe everything else will kinda fall into place.2
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