just need a push, or something

Dfracassa
Dfracassa Posts: 318 Member
in Motivation and Support
I restarted MFP around the middle of January this year, and when I found EM2WL and its theories, I was so excited. Finally, voices were saying something other than "women should only eat 500 calories a day because they're smaller and don't you want to be a Victoria's Secret model?" I was tired of the pressure! I calculated my TDEE and cut 25% (more like 23-24%, but who cares) and have been within that number for about 4.5 weeks, with the occasional splurge. I have been doing the 30 Day Shred, and plan to start Ripped in 30 on April 8. Before all this, I was working out 6 days a week, with a mixture of cardio and weights. I measured myself at the beginning of 30DS and I weigh myself each week. I have not dropped a pound since the year started, and my inches have not changed in the few times I took measurements. I feel more bloated and gross these past two weeks than I have since Christmas, and while I felt pretty good at the start of 30DS (many new pairs of skinny jeans purchased) I don't feel so great now. I try very hard to keep my food healthy (or mostly healthy) and I think, for the most part, I succeed. If someone from this forum could take a look at my diary, I'd appreciate it. I don't know what I'm doing wrong, and if anyone is thinking "time of the month," forget it. I haven't had one of those in more than 3 years and it's going to stay that way. Or just reassure me that I'm doing things right? I know I need to add more workouts into my day, and I am going to try.

Replies

  • amyjohnson2853
    amyjohnson2853 Posts: 8
    It sounds like you've got some protein overload going on, eating chicken twice in a day plus protein powder and what looked to be a protein bar as well. Maybe try cutting that back a little bit, you really only need the powder if you're not getting enough protein from eating regularly, but it seems like you are. Also theres a lot of calories from all the condiments and dressings, maybe try a lower calorie one (they're really not that bad and taste pretty similar) and save a few extra calories there. Try finding out how many calories you need just to maintain your weight http://www.freedieting.com/tools/calorie_calculator.htm works pretty well, then after that the rest is math, each lb of fat is eqaul to about 3500cal so to lose 1lb a week by just eating better divide 3500 by 7 days =500cal you need to subtract from your daily eating (your maintenance weight) any exercise you do also comes off and adds up. Try that and see if it helps :)
  • SpaceMarkus
    SpaceMarkus Posts: 651
    Your macro nutrients are out of whack. I'll shoot you a message since MFP won't ever let me know if you reply here lol
  • ktownchik2005
    ktownchik2005 Posts: 34 Member
    Yeah, you should watch those macros. They really do make a difference:) But I see that you're usually really great with the water intake so you're doing great there!
  • Dfracassa
    Dfracassa Posts: 318 Member
    It sounds like you've got some protein overload going on, eating chicken twice in a day plus protein powder and what looked to be a protein bar as well. Maybe try cutting that back a little bit, you really only need the powder if you're not getting enough protein from eating regularly, but it seems like you are. Also theres a lot of calories from all the condiments and dressings, maybe try a lower calorie one (they're really not that bad and taste pretty similar) and save a few extra calories there. Try finding out how many calories you need just to maintain your weight http://www.freedieting.com/tools/calorie_calculator.htm works pretty well, then after that the rest is math, each lb of fat is eqaul to about 3500cal so to lose 1lb a week by just eating better divide 3500 by 7 days =500cal you need to subtract from your daily eating (your maintenance weight) any exercise you do also comes off and adds up. Try that and see if it helps :)

    I will definitely try lower cal versions of my condiments. I was for a while, but my fiance buys Ranch from Costco, and they don't sell the other kind. I figured one little amount wouldn't kill me, and I don't think it does. I just got so tired of vinegar and oil, you know? And even Amy's and Trader Joe's dressings are high in calories.
  • kcelliott0207
    kcelliott0207 Posts: 5
    Condiments are bad in general. Try more natural ways to season your foods. I like to lightly saute green beans in oil and sear them along with rosemary. Dried seasonings and veggies are great to season foods. Condiments are usually full of fat and preservatives. Try to stay away and this should help!!
  • lelaspeaks
    lelaspeaks Posts: 163 Member
    I recommend eating more fiber... it's not the absolutely cure all - but it certainly helps keep your system moving. I set my goal to 30 a day and shoot for that (I've read that women should get at least 25-30 grams in a day - especially with how high your protein count is). Also, if you've been working out a ton, your muscle may be holding onto water. Also your macros should be at like a 40/30/30 split. Once again, fiber seems to be the biggest missing element. High fiber foods = avocado, fruit, whole grains, green veggies, beans, etc.
  • amyjohnson2853
    amyjohnson2853 Posts: 8
    A little bit here and there won't kill anyone you're right but it can add up really quick sometimes. I've gotten addicted to french dressing recently (never had any clue how delicious it was) I bought a Kraft calorie wise version and it actually tastes awesome and is only 25 cal per Tbsp
  • JoanB5
    JoanB5 Posts: 610 Member
    Yeah, I agree...I only boost protein in my muscle building phases. While it does rid off hunger, it's very calorie dense. I think reviewing your caloric needs and what it would take to reach your goals is probably in order if you aren't losing with what you are doing.

Categories