I hope this helps some people...

newarkco05

I have lot 7 pounds in the past two weeks, it is going to start slowing down soon to a more healthy loss but I feel great!! I hope also noticed several inches shedding off. I have saw a bunch of questions about calories, exercise, etc. Although what is right for my body won't be right for everyone, I thought I'd share how I do it for those who aren't sure where to begin.

1. Every night I plan my food intake for the next day. Sometimes plans change, but I try to keep with the plan. It also helps plan dinner, and it is less likely I will end up going out to eat if I have my meals planned.
- My meals do not always add up to my calorie goal, many times there are 200-350 over. I don't like being hungry during the day lol.
-In this, I plan a little after workout snack in case I am hungry at night.

2. If my meal plan went over by 300 calories, that is my goal for exercising! I want to burn off those extra calories and net 1200. This doesn't happen everyday, once or twice a week, I give myself a break as long as I didn't go over by too much.

3. I eat lots of fruits and I am trying to eat more veggies. I don't restrict myself from any foods, I just try to cut down on the portions.

4. When I got out to eat, I package up half the meal before I start eating, that is my lunch for the next day.

5. My exercise... I usually get on the elliptical at night. I can usually burn almost 300 calories for 30 minutes on there. I also have some dvds, and a wii to change things up a bit. Verizon and Comcast also have exercise shows On Demand.

6. Water... I drink lots of water!! The first day or two, it may seem a little boring, but it gets better, I promise!! As a former 3-4/ a day diet coke drinker, I am limiting myself to one soda a day.

7. You don't have to eat everything that is given to you. Just because it is someones birthday, holiday party, etc, you don't have to eat it. You can save it for later and see if you still want or need it. If you don't love it and have to have it, don't waste the calories on it. But do treat yourself once in a while with something you LOVE!

I am by no means a doctor or nutrition expert, this is just what works for me and I figured it may help a few out there.
Feel free to send me friend requests.

smex14

good advice

TrishaRN_74

Thanks for sharing! I feel SO guilty about going over my calories, but you make me see it's not the end of the world. My biggest obstacle is exercising. I work 3 12-hour shifts a week, and after leaving the house at 6:30 and getting home at 8:30, I do NOT want to work out! But I'm not giving up!