New after cancer

jmkccm
jmkccm Posts: 3 Member
edited December 2024 in Introduce Yourself
Hi All!
I am looking to make 2020 a year of health and recovery. I had cancer surgery and treatment last year and was very inactive and gain over 20 pounds. I've been on MFP since the end of October and have lost 12 lbs. My son gave me a Fitbit for Christmas and I have that synced, so it has been kind of nice to be able to eat a bit more due to the calories burned showing up. I started walking, but after so long a period of inactivity, I incurred a small stress fracture in my foot from the brisk walking. 😔 Now I will rest and hope it heals before I begin my local YMCA's Livestrong after Cancer program. One question I have is, should I really let my everyday steps impact my calories intake or just when I am able to exercise again? TIA!!

Replies

  • cheryldumais
    cheryldumais Posts: 1,907 Member
    When I set myself up on MFP I set it for Sedentary. Even then I don't really see any calories assigned to me for walking in MFP until I reach around 4,000 steps. It shouldn't hurt you to allow them to connect as MFP already sets an amount of activity expected for whatever activity category you selected. Most folks suggest only using half the calories it assigns just to be safe. It sounds as if you are doing some recovery so I would take your time to heal and go slow as you start walking regularly. I started out with about 4,000 steps a day at the start because I was 100 lbs. overweight. Congratulations on your new program and getting started on the road to recovery.
  • jmkccm
    jmkccm Posts: 3 Member
    Thanks for the tip and the encouragement!
  • AnnPT77
    AnnPT77 Posts: 38,240 Community Helper
    Welcome! You got a great answer above to your question, but I just wanted to cheer you on.

    The YMCA has some great programs, and the LiveStrong program is one!

    I'm a survivor of stage III (locally advanced) breast cancer . . . for 19+ years now. I used MFP to lose to a healthy weight a few years back, and am still hanging around. ;)

    You're doing the perfect thing by working toward healthier weight, nutritious eating, and exercise. And you've made great progress already, with the 12 pounds: Go, you!

    Wishing you the best as you continue!
  • jmkccm
    jmkccm Posts: 3 Member
    Thanks so much!!
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