New to this group

Hi there and welcome!

You say you want to approach things differently and lose weight slowly. But at the same time you write you want to lose 3lbs per week. I encourage you to look at the possible weightloss goals here again. The maximum is 2lbs per week, and that's for morbidly obese people. You're trying to achieve something that might not be possible for you with only 80lbs to lose. Losing 3lbs per week would mean eating 1500 calories less per day than you need for maintenance. That is a lot.

I'm not trying to tell you to give up, but to consider more moderate, and realistic goals. Also keep in mind that if you lose weight too quickly then you lose a ton of muscle mass because your body can only lose so much bodyfat per day. You're at an age where every little bit of muscle counts for heart health, and fitness, and for preventing osteoporosis. I know seeing 9lbs less on the scale can be a real motivation, but you need to set yourself realistic goals that are actually possible. If MFP gives you 1200 calories then you won't reach your goal because this is the lowest number you will get here. Thus if you need to eat less than 1200 calories per day to reach your goal you'll still be given 1200.

@jlaine8888 taking small steps and allowing them to become habit is a great way to go about this. IMO it makes it more sustainable and less difficult. I am also in my 50s, so making sure I am hitting my protein minimum to support muscle retention is huge for me, as is strength training to help maintain bone density.

There are some great challenges in the thread and some active groups. You may find people with very similar goals to help support. I find the forums super helpful, even after years of being on-off MFP.

Nice start and good luck on your journey.

Hi, I would also advise tracking your hunger levels according to food you've eaten. For me, some food is longer satiating than others. Good luck, you've got this!