For those starting out or are having trouble.

I just want to post some of the things that I have learned since I started this journey a few months ago, maybe it will help someone on here that needs some guidance.

Ok first of all, you need to make friends on here to help keep you motivated and on track for your goals. Without their help it will be alot harder. It is already hard enough for most of us or else we wouldnt be here.

Second, make sure that you log everything that you put in your mouth... if it goes in and is digested then you should post it in your food diary.

Third, DRINK WATER! I dont know how to stress this enough. It is essential to weight loss. It helps with building muscle and digesting food, just overall body function. It helps flush all the sodium out of your body for those of you who dont think that it is important to watch sodium. I would say that you should drink 8 glasses of just plain water a day in addition to whatever else you drink. Also if you drink enough water it balances out so that you dont retain as much water. So it is just very important to drink lots of water.

Fourth, read through the forums. If you are having a problem, there is a very good chance that someone else is having the very same problem and can help. If you cant find it, then Post a topic for other to look at. Someone at some point has had the exact same problem that you have and are usually willing to help out if you ask.

Fifth, find what works for you. There are many different ways to lose weight. I am sure if you asked 10 people on here what works for them you will get at least 5 different answers. So you have to find what you are willing to do and can be happy with to continue to lose weight for the long term and maintain it.

Sixth, Change your eating habits for the better. Lean protiens, fresh/frozen veggies. Lower sodium to a healthy level if you havent already. You may not like the changes you have to make at first, but once you do and stick with it for a while, your body starts to crave these foods. You will notice that when you dont eat better that you are sluggish and tired.

Seventh, EXERCISE!... Do something! Park your car at the far end of the parking lot and walk your way to the store. Get a gym membership and actually go this time. Walk your dog/cat, they will appreciate the exercise, be happier, and more obeidient. Find and activity that you like to do that burn calories and do it. Alot of the guys on here like MMA training, the women seem to like zumba alot, just find something that interests you. Sign up for an event, like a cancer walk or something. It is a great way to meet people that are already living healthy lifestyles. They can help you also. Exercise helps your energy level and releases chemicals in the brain that make you feel better overall.

Last but not least, DONT GIVE UP! Change does not happen overnight. There are bound to be things that get in the way and discourage you. Especially if you are you are like me and have a lot of weight to lose. There will be set backs, and plateaus, and days when you cant stick to the plan that you have orginally set. Just remember that when these things do happen is that you can not control them and that you are doing your best to make sure that you are on the right track. It takes time to lose weight, just remember that. One day will not make or break you. It is what you do over a longer span that really counts.

I will add more later as I think about new things to help you so check back every now and then for updates.