How I lost 68 lbs and counting

paulaGetshealthy · January 2012

If you haven't seen my transformation so far, you can check it out here:
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/444309-my-turn-my-weight-loss-so-far-pic-heavy?error_user_id=6767796&error_username=paulajfranco

I have a lot of questions messaged to me, so I decided I'd share what worked for me. Keep in mind that weight-loss isn't a one-size-fits-all sort of thing, and you have to find what will work for YOU. That being said, what I did actually might work for you. So here goes.

1. I ate at a calorie deficit. Seems simple enough right? Well it worked and continues to work for me. When I was heavier I had my calorie goal set to 1200 a day (2 lb loss a week) and I stuck to that. Now that I'm smaller, I have my goal at 1400 (.5 lb loss per week).

2. I got moving. At first all I could manage was 2.5mph on the treadmill for 30-60 minutes 7 days a week. I remember at 3mph I was RUNNING. I was so out of shape! I progressively ran faster, and I added circuit training videos to my workout routine. I love circuit training and I prefer to run outdoors now.

3. I pre-log my meals the night before. This helps me to stay on track and avoid snacking on unhealthy foods. I highly recommend this!

4. I choose foods according to the vitamins and nutrients it contributes to my body. If I finish logging my foods (the night before) and see that I'm low on calcium but super high in vitamin C, I might switch my snack from an orange to some greek yogurt. I try to get enough of each vitamin/nutrient, and I usually shoot for higher Protein that what is set for me by MFP.

5. Will power and self-control. I think about what I want for my body, and whether that slice of pizza or that ice cream is going to get my body to where I want it to be. If the answer is no, I skip it. This is hard to master, but TRUST ME, you will be able to do it.

6. I treat myself. One day a month is my "binge" day. I don't know if everyone can handle this without falling back into old habits, but I can. Also, every week (usually Friday), I'll have one unhealthy meal (high in carbs or sodium or fat) as long as it falls within my calorie goal.

Aaaand, that's pretty much it

P.S. I'm no longer accepting friend invites! Sorry!