Needing some Motivation!

ColdPlum
ColdPlum Posts: 57 Member
edited November 8 in Health and Weight Loss
I've been off and on MFP several times in the past years, and have never gotten closer than 10 pounds to my goal, but did well maintaining at that range. Maybe my goal was too low? Throughout my journey, however, I've discovered several health issues that have required even stricter diets than I am accustomed to, and I've found it all overwhelming. I had 3 different parasites (unknowingly) for awhile, so now I have to stay away from gluten and legumes. I have adrenal fatigue, so I have to stay low on caffeine and sugar and am barred from intense cardio. I have difficulty staying hydrated, so I have to have salty or acidic drinks, a lot. A, finally, I have hemochromatosis, which means I absorb excess iron from foods (I should be no higher than 120, and I'm at 429. 500 causes organ damage) so I have to give blood regularly and should avoid iron fortified foods, smoothies, supplements, etc. I'm overwhelmed.
These issues leave me feeling tired much of the time and I lack the enthusiasm to really stick with all of this, or at least, follow these restrictions AND count calories as well. I've got two kids, a part time job, and a non-profit I help to run on the side. I'm busy and resentful that all of this diet stuff is so hard.
Now, this year, I've put on about 15 pounds and I've got to start taking my weight more seriously, before things get out of control. I don't have many friends on here, and I need some gentle encouragement to keep me accountable for my goals. Right now, just logging every day to start getting back on track. Any takers?

Replies

  • CindyB97
    CindyB97 Posts: 146 Member
    Wow, you've got a lot to think about every time you put food in your mouth. One piece of advice (and you'll probably get lots of good ideas from the folks here) is maybe sit down and come up with a list of meals that fit all your parameters (gluten-free, legume-free, low in iron, etc.). Make one list of lunches, and one list of dinners. That way, when you are planning meals and making a grocery shopping list, you can look at the list for ideas. It sounds simple, but doing that has helped me because when I try to plan meals, my mind just goes blank. I don't mind having the same thing day after day for breakfast, but I like a little variety in my other meals.

    Same thing for snacks. Buy or prepare snacks ahead of time, that way you can grab something when you are on the go, especially on the busy days.
  • ColdPlum
    ColdPlum Posts: 57 Member
    Thanks so much! Coming up with that list is a really great idea. For some reason that hadn't occurred to me and, you're right, I draw a blank each mealtime and just get so frustrated. I've considered that I have to prepare ahead of time, but that as well seems so overwhelming. I think starting with the list will really help. Thanks for the advice.
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