One year later w. pics

I've seen so many inspirational stories on the blogs and forums of people who have done such great things for their health while using MFP. I thought I'd share my story briefly and include pics as well.

I started MFP at the end of March 2011 with a eight of approx. 320 (not 100 sure if my scale was right at that weight). At the same time that I joined MFP, I also joined Overeater's Anonymous as I felt that I had food/eating addictions. Overeater's Anonymous helped me to start the process in removing foods from my life that were harming me, specifically sugar and junk food, as I had no control in eating them. I also realized that when I ate a sugar-laden or overly processed food, my body and my mind CRAVED to have more junk food.

So...I removed them from my diet and have stayed away for over a year. I consider those foods poison to me or cause me an allergic reaction--so just like I'd have to remove nuts from my diet if I was allergic to them...

I try to eat as "clean" as possible with most foods being as close to nature as possible.

I reduced weight pretty easily just following the eating plan of three meals a day with absolutely no snacking in between (so there is a beginning and end to each meal) which works best for me.

In December of 2011, I unfortunately, had an emotional breakdown due to other things going on in my life and have been struggling with depression and anxiety since then. I have, however, been able to maintain my weight loss of 70+lbs (up and down a couple of lbs) by sticking to my "eating plan" as close as I possiblty could--I wasn't always able to maintain my calories but still stayed away from "unhealthy" food.

But, wanting to celebrate how far I've come, I wanted to show pictures of before and "during", as I still have a ways to go, but I will get there in good time when my mind is healthier.

Please note that in providing this topic, I'm not asking for any advice although I realize anyone providing advice would be trying to help me. I just wanted to share this so that people who may have an understanding of a weight loss struggle with depression involved.

I wish everyone here working hard for their future health the very best of luck and support during their journey to health!

(i hope the pictures work!)

320ish



270ish


247ish