Pretty new, some motivation may help.

GreenNight18

I recently hit my breaking point for weight (200) and I couldn't believe that I actually saw that on the scale. For the past 5 days I've been keeping to less than 1200 calories per day and I hopefully will reach my goal weight of 140 (or thereabouts). I've been trying to exercise everyday and so far I've been doing about a half hour on an elliptical machine and hoping it will get easier each day. I used to drink during the week but I stopped because it was so many calories. Planned ahead and had my first drink in a week tonight (made sure it was below my limit) and am trying to find filling snacks that are low in calories and really filling.

Any advice/support would help as I'm pretty new at this and am desperate to get down to my goal weight!

Kincar

I understand your frustration. Don't eat too few calories in an attempt to lose quickly. In the long run it won't help you reach your goal. I know you're anxious to reach your goal, but slow & steady will win this race.

Mceastes

Don't ever go below 1200, that's too low and will only slow down your metabolism. I weigh 145 and I eat 1650 calories a day! Even more than that when I workout. I had let myself get up to 155 when I was planning my wedding and it took three months to lose the ten pounds cause I didn't want to go too low - never had a day where I went under 1400 and most days I ate the full calorie portion of 1650 + whatever calories I burned on my run. I am not a gym rat, but I do run 3 times a week (2-3 miles) and lift weights once or twice a week. Make sure you get enough fuel to keep your body breaking down fat and not muscle. I agree with the previous post - slow and steady. Everyone wants to lose weight like yesterday, but trying to go all out and too low only backfires. Pick a good calorie window that will allow you to lose weight and feel satisfied (generally in the 1400-1600 range for women plus more on exercise days), get enough nutrients (including protein) and fuel your workouts. Hang in there, I know you're desperate, but you have to do it the healthy way to get the best results. Have faith, if you log consistently and workout regularly, you'll get there - good luck!!

Temple_Fit

30 minutes on the elliptical is GREAT for just starting out. I had to work my way up to 30 minutes, so you are off to a great start. I began my journey a year ago in March and I have lost 50lbs. The elliptical is my best friend, Before you know it the weight will just melt off of you.

GreenNight18

Congrats on 50 pounds!! That's my goal for now, only a couple pounds towards it, but I'm glad to hear about how great the elliptical is. Thanks!

txsgirlK

Great advice from everyone! MFP will automatically set your calories to 1200 but I found that is not enough. Especially on work out days. You have to eat to fuel your body and I know it sounds weird, but the more healthy stuff you eat, the more you lose and the longer you will be able to keep it off. Track every day! It really helps! Google BMR (basic metabolic rate) and there are calculations to help you figure out how many calories you should be eating to lose. Mine is like 1783! Sounds crazy but I'm trying it. Keep up the good work and good luck! You can do it!