Just joined, newbie - got a long way to go

Hi

I am from the UK and I put on weight during my pregnancy almost 6 years ago, although truth be told I had already gained weight before that but I piled on at least 5 stone and I have been struggling to loose any of it since. My relationship with food is a difficult one, if i get too hungry my blood sugar levels drop and I feel really ill. During my pregnancy I ate to combat sickness.. I found as long as I felt full I didn't feel sick.. on reflection this is what contributed to the weight gain and my failure to loose any since.. I feel so ill when I get 'the shakes' from the blood sugar level thing that I just ate and eat to keep that at bay.

Its actually upsetting to know this and write it down for a bunch of strangers to read. I am desperate to see some progress - just a stone, a few pounds.. anything!! I have tried most diets and failed. I get depressed and disheartened and then give up and shove more food in my face..

I have recently started walking as an exercise (the thought of the gym depresses me, I would much rather be outside) I walk my dog. I also swim when I can.

I hope to make some friends on here and actually progress at my own pace, counting calories and exercising and not doing another faddy diet.

Nice to meet you all!
Sparks xx