Need a boost

Hello MFP community -- not sure that I'll get responses to this, but here goes:

I'm at the start of trying to lose about 40-50lbs but I find that I'm really struggling with willpower. I feel like if I can stick it out for a few weeks my habits will shift and I'll get used to a reduced food intake but I just can't seem to get myself over the hump.

How do you live with a little bit of hunger? How do you teach your body (and MIND!!) how much is enough?

I successfully lost 40lbs 7 years ago (when I was 22/23 -- a different life stage, a different metabolism!) but I've since gained all that back and more. So I know how limited eating feels (and I know that back then it used to feel great), but I cant seem to get back into that headspace.

How did you get through your first month? How do you re-train your mind and body.

Many thanks to this generous community for any tips.

Replies

  • SezxyStef
    SezxyStef Posts: 15,268 Member
    When I was at the start of this weight loss thing I was hungry...but then I joined MFP and realized I didn't have to be hungry I was just not eating enough.

    you don't have to be hungry to lose weight...you need a reasonable deficit.

    Your metabolism isn't that much different...if at all...

    I got through my first month like I get through each month...I log consistently and accurately to lose the weight or maintain the weight I want...I wanted to lose the weight, I want to be healthy so I do what i need to do to reach those goals.
  • breathless575
    breathless575 Posts: 140 Member
    Sometimes when I feel hungry, I find that a warm beverage helps. Coffee, tea, or broth. If you're dealing with stomach grumbling, sometimes a Tums tablet will help.
  • georginabain
    georginabain Posts: 20 Member
    I am in the same boat.. only two years ago I lost between 10-15kg! since then I have put it all back on. I am just focusing on changing my habits slowly, being mindful of what I eat (the reason I am using MFP!), & just slowly changing goals.

    I set goals like: drink 3L of water every day this week, have at least a serve of fruit of veg in every meal.

    I also try & plan what I am eating for the week (roughly) in advance so I don't get stuck for ideas! There are so many yummy things you can do with veg & spices to make your food so much tastier!

    Also, if your hungry try drinking a big glass of water before you grab a snack. Sometimes you get confused as to weather you're hungry or thirsty. Caffeine is also an appetite suppressant but I try to still only have one a day. I stick to green tea or lemon water warm sometimes with honey. If you can get more protine into your meals they keep you full for longer I have found.


    These are all just things I have found that work for me. But it is good to know I am not the only one out there who has to do this all over again.Best wishes.
  • maggieobc
    maggieobc Posts: 9 Member
    Hey thanks to all with helpful replies! I was in a bad place yesterday morning but I had a great day despite going to a baseball game in the evening. Really trying to focus on taking it one day at a time. All the best to you. Thank you!