Food Pantry and Dieting

SNHUalumna
SNHUalumna Posts: 3 Member
edited November 19 in Motivation and Support
Hi everyone, I could really use some advice. I've been on a relatively low-carb, high protein diet that my doctor recommended to help treat my PCOS. It's not ketogenic or anything, just lowered carb with no processed foods or sugar. Additionally, I have a genetic heart condition called Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia, so I do a cardio routine 30 minutes a day, 5 times a week as directed by my cardiologist. I have had great success this way and in addition to losing weight, my periods have become more regular and my heart rhythm is improving; all naturally.

Here is the problem. My husband recently lost his job and we currently have no food. I am a graduate student and tutor so my income is tiny, especially now that it's summer and I have no students. All my money has gone to pay rent and bills. We have to go to a local food bank for help this week. I am not sure how to eat healthfully this way. I know from volunteering at a food bank that most of the food is processed and high-carb. So, any suggestions? Does this truly boil down to a caloric deficit? Should I double my workout routine? Cut portions even more? Fast?

I do not mean to sound ungrateful regarding food pantry food. I am very grateful, and working hard to improve my family's situation. However, I have made a lot of progress with my health and I am afraid of reversing it just because I am going through a rough patch right now and have to live exclusively on Kraft Mac & Cheese and Ramen Noodles.

Any advice would be sincerely appreciated.


Thanks!


Replies

  • ManiacalLaugh
    ManiacalLaugh Posts: 1,048 Member
    edited June 2015
    Oooof - if that's not a life thwacking, I don't know what is. I hope your situation improves soon!

    Considering your health issue, is there any food they might offer that's atleast high in fiber even if it's also high in carbs? I'm being cautious before saying I "recommend it" because I don't know much about PCOS. However, there is a lot of diabetes type II literature out there that suggests a high-in-fiber diet can complement low carb to ease type II symptoms. Not sure if it would translate over.
  • whirlygig4
    whirlygig4 Posts: 1 Member
    edited June 2015
    It does boil down to caloric deficit. As long as you stick to your calorie target, you shouldn't be backsliding in terms of weight loss.

    Do they let you pick out your own foods? Canned tuna, canned vegetables and peanut butter would be good options.
  • QuilterInVA
    QuilterInVA Posts: 672 Member
    whirlygig4 wrote: »
    It does boil down to caloric deficit. As long as you stick to your calorie target, you shouldn't be backsliding in terms of weight loss.

    Do they let you pick out your own foods? Canned tuna, canned vegetables and peanut butter would be good options.

    Science proves that it is not a calorie deficit that causes weight loss. The types of food you eat play an important part in weight loss. On a low carb diet, which I do, I can eat 1500 calories a day and lose. On a "regular" diet I ate 1200 and maintained.
  • SNHUalumna
    SNHUalumna Posts: 3 Member
    Great advice and ideas! Thank you! I think focusing on fiber will definitely be helpful and peanut butter would help provide protein too. I'll steer clear of the sugary cereal and Ramen. My eleven year-old son, on the other hand, is thrilled he gets to eat all these processed things. Oh to be a kid again!
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