220lbs-need snack idea thats less filling than popcorn.

This 1200 diet is working for me but I noticed that I keep falling under the 1200 daily goal. I end up eating a candy bar to make up the difference...cant complain about that. I will never tire of popcorn...love it. Problem with popcorn is it fills me up to the point I dont feel like eating more thats needed to reach daily goal 1200. Anyone know of a low calorie snack that is filling but doesnt completely fill me up? Today I am under my goal by 326 calories and have no room to eat more...due to popcorn. :(

Recently added meat, milk, veggies. Note: Breakfast/dinner menu varies daily with equal calorie intake. Snacks occasionally mini wheat sub.

Breakfast - 2 wheat toast/w butter (2 tsp), 2 boiled eggs, garlic salt.

Snack - 1 medium nectarine.

Lunch - 2 bags of 110 calorie popcorn. 1 medium plum, 1 medium nectarine.

Snack - 1 medium plum.

Dinner - Small bowl of raisin bran/ or miniwheats w/ whole milk. I medium plum.

Drinks all day - Water and 3 cans of Pepsi Max (no calories)

Exercise - 3 1/2 miles walking daily. Home rower every 3 days - 1000 rows in 45 minutes,

My weight is dropping and progress looks very positive. Never hungry.

If I kept at this would I be down to at least 170lbs by November?

Replies

  • dupaboo
    dupaboo Posts: 174 Member
    Hey there - saw your other post and agree that you need to incorporate more protein, veggies and good fats. Since you're exercising a lot, why not try a protein shake? It won't leave you feeling extremely full and you'll get some added protein into your diet. I always keep almonds handy, too, for this purpose.
  • swingsintherain
    swingsintherain Posts: 121 Member
    I would maybe try eating something a little more "substantial" for lunch, such as a salad with a protein source (chicken, egg, etc) on it to get more vegetables and protein in, especially since I see a lot of fruit here but no vegetables. While fruit is better than candy, you're probably missing some important vitamins and minerals if you don't eat your veggies!
  • EvgeniZyntx
    EvgeniZyntx Posts: 24,208 Member
    Chocolate.
  • Ninkyou
    Ninkyou Posts: 6,666 Member

    My weight is dropping and progress looks very positive. Never hungry.

    If I kept at this would I be down to at least 170lbs by November?

    No, you won't. Your metabolism will slow down and your weight loss will stall if you continue to eat under 1200 calories. You're not hungry because your metabolism has adjusted to a lower calorie intake. That doesn't mean you're getting everything you need, just because you don't feel hungry. My suggestion would be to ditch the popcorn altogether, except maybe as a treat every once in a while. I mean even if it's the 110 calorie popcorn, you're eating 2 bags. Plus you're replacing your lunch with this stuff. You're not going to get any good nutrients that way. Try eating lean proteins (chicken, turkey, pork, fish), full fat cheeses, greek yogurt, vegetables, nuts, etc. These will all help you get the PROPER nutrients for the day, they will bump up your calories to a healthy level, and they will help you feel fuller longer. If at the end of the day, you have a hankering for popcorn, and you have calories left over, then fit it in. But eat only 1 serving. It's all about portion control and fueling your body the right way. After you've fueled it properly, then you can start thinking about adding in the popcorn.
  • Vegies man where are the vegies, I was thinking if you added some raw vegies, like a small salad to you lunch and supper, that would add some calories.
  • May I suggest a protein?, WHEY protien, Greek yogurt, egg whites, cottage cheese, tuna, fish, chicken

    Also, green veggies, ie,. Baby spinach, ( you can blend into protein shake) add fruit or something to cover the taste. Go salads or broccoli.

    More water through out the day.
  • HealthyVitamins
    HealthyVitamins Posts: 432 Member
    your lunch is popcorn and your dinner is cereal?

    I mean each to their own, but surely you could bump up the nutritional value of your meals?

    Get some vegetables, meat etc
  • LorinaLynn
    LorinaLynn Posts: 13,247 Member
    Where's the MEALS? You're having breakfast a couple times a day, and some snacks. That's a recipe to burn out.
  • girlcalledryan
    girlcalledryan Posts: 241 Member
    You really ought to incorporate more protien and veggies. Maybe swap a snack you currently eat for veggies with hummos? Also more protien at lunch. Salad with meat, maybe lentils or beans. Something. You need to meet not just your calorie goal, but your nuterition goals as well. Good luck!
  • Francl27
    Francl27 Posts: 26,371 Member
    What's your protein count? 30g a day or something? Ditch the popcorn and cereal and have a real meal, ie, some meat or fish or something.
  • allaboutthecake
    allaboutthecake Posts: 1,535 Member
    326 calorie deficit?

    5.6 oz of Tuna steak - 172 calories, 39 gm protein
    9 oz of grilled green veggie like zuchinni - 36 cal
    4 oz steamed fresh spinach - 25 cal
    1/2 cup Greek yogurt - 65cal, 12 gm protein
    2 oz of blueberries (for your yogurt) - 32 cal

    You can eat a lot more food when you choose choices wisely. I would suggest swapping one of your fruits and your popcorn for protein: tunafish, tilapia, chicken, turkey, lean ground beef, greek yogurt, soy, eggs, raw nuts.... if you really like popcorn, then eat a cup or two for a snack vs a meal. :flowerforyou:
  • I agree with everyone, unless you are vegetarian ( but they tend to eat better) you need nutrition or you will be a sick skinny person with no energy...try adding apples and a lean meat at lunch.
    To combat afternoon hungries I have lean protein and a small amount of fat at lunch ( usually olive oil)
  • realme56
    realme56 Posts: 1,093 Member
    You've been on the site since September 2012, lost 9#, log more Quick Calories than actual intake and think you will lose another 60 # by November??
    Popcorn and Reese's Cups are not a meal. Look at public diaries, eat meat, veggies, fruits in reasonable amounts, exercise and you will lose but not by November.
  • oddawa1974
    oddawa1974 Posts: 14 Member
    Replace popcorn with veggies. I work desk job (graveyard) by myself dealing with drug addict/alcoholic clients so I dont get a lunch break...eat while I work. So (finger food) veggies/bites of meat would be doable for lunch. Not much a meat eater. So nuts or protein of other source is ideal. I'm not big on dinner meals because I go to bed as soon as I get home. Wow...now I look at my eating habits...its all mainly quick stuff...barely any cooked meals. Just don't have time to cook. :(

    My eating schedule is backwards bfast is nighttime, lunch around 3am, dinner around 9am - most of the time too tired to eat dinner.
  • oddawa1974
    oddawa1974 Posts: 14 Member
    Thank you everyone for the information. I got a lot of food adjusting to do.
  • MsPudding
    MsPudding Posts: 562 Member
    Ok - the problem with your menu is that it's got no meals in it. It's a day-long graze of snacks, many of which have low nutritional value.

    As others have said - protein! Also, where are the veggies? You should really be filling up on them.

    For your lunches, try some lean protein (tuna, chicken, turkey, lean ham etc) with a green salad. Dinner time, a third of your plate should be veg - how about doing some stir-fries? They're a great way to get in lots of veg and some protein. You also need some dairy in there - how about yoghurt?

    ETA: You also need to log consistently, your diary is all over the place. Some days you're coming in around 600-800 calories, mostly on snacks and on other days you simply have 'Quick Add Calories' in there for 1,000-1,500. I think you could probably benefit from planning your day's menu ahead of time.
  • allaboutthecake
    allaboutthecake Posts: 1,535 Member
    Do you have a microwave near your desk at work? Meal prep at home. Reheat at work. Or eat it cold. (more satisfying heated, tho). Even Peanut Butter Sandwiches, chicken strips, raw broccoli/cauliflower, carrot sticks, celery, cherry tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, cheese sticks, ,the list is endless. When you grocery shop, skip the chip/popcorn isle and stick to the vegetable section along with your fruit. Choose your bright, beautiful vibrant colors of veggies in everything you love to eat and fill your basket and your belly. Even making a crockpot full of meat/veggies and reheating at work, eating it at your desk, is good.

    Look at your macros and hit those number every day. It doesn't matter if your meals are non-traditional in the time sense, just more balanced.

    Have fun shopping!

    (Edited to add: BTW, you can go in on your profile and change the titles to your meals to what fits your lifestyle. So if Breakfast is actually dinner to you, then change the first title to DINNER 7AM or whatever you like, get it?)
  • -Cut down sugar (fruit) intake
    - Increase protein
    - Increase complex carbs ( brown rice, sweet potatoes, oats etc)
    - Increase veges

    You need to start eating food that are good for you and will keep you full.
  • shannashannabobana
    shannashannabobana Posts: 625 Member
    Recently added meat, milk, veggies.
    Well, I think that's your answer, although it isn't included in your sample day. You need protein. Drop the popcorn and eat something else for lunch.
  • billsica
    billsica Posts: 4,741 Member
    If I kept at this would I be down to at least 170lbs by November?

    Not a chance. I'd put my money on you stalling out long before then and plateauing.


    Oh, for your snack. Peanut butter.
  • oddawa1974
    oddawa1974 Posts: 14 Member
    @ psychme, I wasnt ready to begin my diet back in 2012 and pulled back within a few days. This time however I am striving very hard to succeed. I am looking for a career advancement, fundraising, representing the organization. Reality set in...if I really want success in career I need to work on my appearance as well. Sadly, obese people are frowned upon, viewed as lazy or considered weak because of lack of control over their eating habits., and if your organization is based on image...you will be passed on for someone else. I dont agree with the shallow views of many people. I will be honest...I wasnt obese until 2010 when i was released from prison...I ate everything in sight when I was released...before I was obese I had those same shallow views. Becoming obese myself it was a real eye opener. I see how I am treated differently because I am obese. So yes, I have to make these changes in myself. I will not sit back and allow obesity to prevent me from achieving my career goals. Since 2012 I have been promoted twice but the positions I am seeking now has alot to do with how I look as well as education and experience. I don't have as many opportunities as other people have due to my felony...which is my fault completely...I have worked hard, studied hard, by myself, to be where I'm at today (3 years) career wise. So far what I've done in 3 years time...many of my coworkers have been doing it over 15 years...and I am already ahead of them. Thank you for bringing up my failure in 2012....that is a real motivator. :)
  • 13ftw67
    13ftw67 Posts: 35 Member
    Nitrate free beef jerky. awesome stuff low calorie high protein. try perky jerky 180 calories in the whole package. Jack links has 210 calories per package.
  • crazybookworm
    crazybookworm Posts: 779 Member
    Hi there!

    First off congrats on taking the steps to becoming healthier!

    Is there a reason you eat popcorn for lunch and cereal for lunch and dinner? I know if it fits for your calories than fine , but surely you can add some better nutrition in there. Something that will help keep you full and satisfied. Instead of snack ideas, perhaps some meal ideas will be more helpful. Eating something healthier and more nutritional is definitely a better option.

    Lunch ideas:

    Greek Yogurt with mixed berries and granola(or pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, almonds, etc. All unsalted)
    Turkey Sandwich(Whole grain, light or no mayo, mustard, spinach/greens) with a Banana
    Spring Mix or spinach greens salad with grilled Chicken breast, Salmon or Shrimp. Light Dressing.
    Apple Slices with a Tablespoon of Natural Peanut Butter, Banana and 1/4 unsalted trailmix

    Dinner Ideas
    Grilled Chicken, Salmon, etc with Steamed veggies Small Side Salad
    Twice Baked Sweet Potato stuffed with Broccoli, asparagus, kale(or your other favourite veggies)
    Shrimp Stir-fry. Swap rice with a bed of broccoli slaw.
    Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Turkey Meatballs. Light on the sauce.

    I hope this helps!

    Good luck! :smile:
  • Looking2blittler
    Looking2blittler Posts: 39 Member
    I agree with those that said to add a salad, lots of veggies, and the calories aren't too bad...Maybe even a small amount of light or reduced fat cheese for the calcium. Just beware of what dressings you use, they can really jack up the calories. I love the salad stritzers, which are zero cals, and I also love Zaxby's light ranch. Also - if you like yogurt, make your own yogurt parfait with some fresh fruit, yogurt and granola crumbles. If I come up with anything on my own, I will let you know. :) Good luck!
  • Lleldiranne
    Lleldiranne Posts: 5,516 Member
    I agree, even with a 1200 calorie limit you can have more fulfilling meals than popcorn & fruit.

    Some lunch ideas:
    -Sandwich on whole wheat bread: ham and cheese or grilled chicken breast and provalone or turkey and swiss (you get the idea), add mustard for flavor (I don't use mayo, only mustard) and spinach instead of lettuce.
    - can tuna or salmon (just open, drain, and eat), 1 serving wheat thins crackers (that's about 15), 1 red or yellow bell pepper (or 4-5 mini peppers), Greek Yogurt
    -salad made from Romaine Lettuce, Spinach, raw broccoli, raw cauliflower, tomato, baby carrots, cucumber, etc. Add some cubed cheese and a bit of meat (ham, grilled chicken, even leftover steak cut up), a tb of sunflower seeds, and 1-2 Tbs of dressing (measure the dressing!!!!!)

    Dinner ideas:
    -quesadilla made from pinto beans, shredded cheddar (weigh out 1/2 to 1 ounce) and tortillas, fried in the pan with a very little bit of butter
    -chili, beans & ham, split pea soup, etc
    -grilled or baked fish with rice (brown is better) and steamed broccoli or some other veggie
    -chicken breast grilled or baked with veggies and a small baked potato
    -pork chop (baked) with sweet potato and green beans


    While weight loss itself is thermodynamics (calories in<calories out = lose weight), nutrition is very important: the quality of your calories matter for overall health. You NEED vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (beans, meat, etc) and some source of calcium … all those little vitamins help keep your body running well!


    ETA: I understand the frustration of being judged by time as a member and ticker weight … I've been a member for over 2 years and my ticker says 2 lbs lost … but that 2 years includes a pregnancy (not losing there, but gaining weight!), plus I reset my ticker for the new year (OK, it's sad I've only lost 2 lbs since January, but that's what it is)
  • michellekicks
    michellekicks Posts: 3,624 Member
    I would also suggest cutting out the 3 pepsi max drinks daily... all that fizz will fill you up to where you maybe can't fit healthier foods in you.
  • mrslcoop
    mrslcoop Posts: 317 Member
    Replace popcorn with veggies. I work desk job (graveyard) by myself dealing with drug addict/alcoholic clients so I dont get a lunch break...eat while I work. So (finger food) veggies/bites of meat would be doable for lunch. Not much a meat eater. So nuts or protein of other source is ideal. I'm not big on dinner meals because I go to bed as soon as I get home. Wow...now I look at my eating habits...its all mainly quick stuff...barely any cooked meals. Just don't have time to cook. :(

    My eating schedule is backwards bfast is nighttime, lunch around 3am, dinner around 9am - most of the time too tired to eat dinner.

    Might I suggest protein powder (whey)? It's usually around 100 calories and 25 g of protein. Super easy. Just shake in a blender bottle with cold water and enjoy. It's also very filling.
  • SkinnyMsFitness
    SkinnyMsFitness Posts: 389 Member
    Cashews or other nuts
    Granola/Fiber bars
    Yogurt
    WATER (Seriously keeps ya feelin content!!)
    Sugar free Gum - very helpful with cravings!
    String cheese
  • brixtonbanner
    brixtonbanner Posts: 71 Member
    Mate
    looking at that sample meal you showed you are almost a Raw fruitarian
    A good thing I wish I could be
    If you are into fruit a lot you could do a lot worse
    no end of snacks grapes, bananas, etc. etc.
    why don't you have a look on the tinterweb at Vegan,fruitarian or Raw diets (not as in "I'm on a diet" but what I eat diet)?
    Of all the people I have seen of whom I have thought that they look a tad large they've always been meat eaters
  • bcattoes
    bcattoes Posts: 17,299 Member
    Add some type of fat to your popcorn - butter, olive oil, coconut oil, whatever your preference. A little will add a lot of calories. And have a glass of chocolate milk made with chocolate protein powder with it.