For those who've lost weight using MFP ...

First, I love using the app on my phone to log in EVERYTHING. Also, the first couple of weeks I just ate smaller portions of what I'd normally eat and then slowly started incorporating new and healthier options. Second, find some people on here and STICK to them like glue. They are great motivators. Last, take it meal by meal, day by day with the entire picture in mind. It helps me get through some tough times.

Hi there and welcome!

A few basics that has worked for me.

1. Set achievable goals - no point failing and getting discouraged.
2. Don't lose weight too quickly. Be patient.
3. Weigh yourself no more than once a week, and do so at the same sort of time of day (me, wed mornings before breakfast)
4. Don't set up a daily/weekly exercise scheduled that you'll struggle to maintain.
5. Log everything and be honest.
6. Balanced diet is key. There's no point in being under your cal goal each day if all the cals are sugar and fat.
7. Keep hydrated.
8. If it hurts, stop. "no pain no gain" is stupid.

Lastly, enjoy!

Really watch your salt intake! I didn't think it was a big deal, and was having a Lean Pocket for lunch for about a week. BIG MISTAKE! Don't eat prepackaged or "ready made" meals if you can avoid it. I know sometimes it's hard when you're at work, and forgot your lunch ect ect.
It's amazing how much of a difference sodium intake makes. On the days that you do get up there, drink lots and lots of water to help your body get rid of it easier.
The nutrients tracker has been really helpful. Made me realize that I was anemic and once I started taking a supplement I felt loads better, could workout longer without getting winded or dizzy.
Good Luck!

dont be afraid of upping your calories if you dont see a budge within a week or two... 1200 is the minimum you should be eating...so stick with that number or bump up to 1300. I bumped up as I felt 1200 wasn't the right number for me and I saw my weight loss move in the right direction right away.

also, as everyone else has mentioned, is patience. Remember this is a lifestyle change not a fad diet...you are learning what to eat, how much to eat, and where you need to adjust. Some of the goal numbers may not be right for you, so adjust accordingly and have an open mind. Every body is different and it takes time to take off the weight that we put on over the years.

You will do wonderfully!

I'll say that I haven't been on here long, about two weeks, and I'm an above average guy when it comes to fitness. I played college football and have pretty much maintained my same weight in the 10 years since I've graduated (somewhat of a different proportion of muscle and fat but I'm still pretty fit just not the bulging muscles I once had). My struggle was always controlling my food portions and this website has helped me put into prospective the amount of calories I was consuming. By documenting everything, I can pretty much plan out my meals and know where I need to stay to hit to my goals. I've lost 7 lbs in a week and a half and the only thing I changed was reducing the amount of calories. I work out the same which is lifting weights 4 times a week and some type of cardio 3 days a week (running and/or Insanity). I've been more than pleased with my results. I wanted to lose a pound a week over the next two months. I have essentially hit my goal in two weeks.

My advice to you is to stay disciplined and spread out your meals as much as possible to combat the fact that you will be hungry at the beginning cutting to just 1200 calories. For example, normally for lunch I might have a sandwich, chips, and piece of fruit. Now, I might eat the sandwich and chips during lunch and save the piece of fruit for an hour later. Drinking alot of water has helped reduce my cravings. Also having low calorie snacks such as celery comes in handy.

Make sure you are getting enough protein and calcium with your 1200 calorie intake. Remember that the calories burned during your workouts give you extra food calories to play around with. You will need them at times, especially working out 5 days a week and only consuming 1200 calories.

Good luck and be safe and healthy.

Don't over weigh yourself. You weight will fluctuate daily. If you notice a rise on the scale, DON'T GIVE UP! It takes time & lots of patience. You should also get in a habit of taking your measurements; I'd say to measure every 2 weeks or so because you may not see a big difference on the scales every time you weigh.....but if you are losing inches, then you KNOW that you are doing something right.

Good luck in your weight loss journey. I wish for you nothing but the best!

YOU CAN DO IT.....YOU WILL DO.....DON'T GIVE UP.......JUST DO IT! =D

log everything. use message boards for support and questions. people are are great. get friends, it makes you feel a little more accountable. success will keep you coming back. I've used other sites for tracking food and this one is the BEST.

Also, use the forums for motivation and good info! Good luck to you!

totoal side note - but wow I love the pic on ur tracker x

Eating less is not always better.

Sometimes having too big a calorie deficit doesn't work.

Moderation is key - true for food, working out, etc. I agree that logging everything is crucial. I also keep a close eye on my sodium intake (try for less than 1500 a day) and my fiber (35g a day), drinking a lot of ice water - keep a tall bottle by your side at all times and keep sipping it. Don't get disappointed when the results don't come as quick as you think - it will happen if you stick with it.

Good luck and feel free to add me for support if you would like