caseythirteen Member

For BCAA, I actually do log that (when I take it) because of the sodium content. That's something I watch and since it has over 200+mg in it, I like to add it in there.

How long were you planning to bulk? Have you gotten the gains you were hoping for? If you are close and like what you've done then I would say leave it where it is. But if you would like to go that one step more than I say increase. I think it really all depends on what your goals are.

I agree that giving it some more time might be good. At 5'4" and 110 lbs and low BF, you could be going through a lot of adjusting right now. That could also be why you haven't been getting periods. The same thing happened to me. From January through June of last year I didn't get one and I was 5'5" and 111 lbs - not sure…

^^ This! Try and use as many MFP added entries as possible because it's the USDA stuff. The trick is to use the plural a lot because that's how they add it. Bananas instead of banana, etc. Then you can use the grams option to be as close to accurate as you can get if you use a food scale.

I read, read and read some more. Then I set up an appt at the gym just to have a reason to go over to the weight room. She showed me the machines but I quickly knew it wasn't for me. I read a ton on these forums and websites and started to develop my own program. I read NROLFW but the program wasn't for me - still good…

I agree, you've done great!! You already have done longer than you're original plan and made a great gain.

I like to add some water and then mix it with some plain greek yogurt and a little bit of cinnamon swirl protein powder. Makes for an amazing dip for apple slices.

Protein bars that are delicious! I'm finishing off at a coconut cashew as I type. Not only are they great for protein, they are an excellent source of fiber too.

If there was some kind of sauce or marinade, it could have had a lot of sugar in it to account for some of it.

Couldn't agree more!! We need to empower the young ladies around us and start changing the unhealthy patterns that have been around for so long.

I was going to say the same thing about your rear ... It looks fantastic! Job extremely well done girl. ????????????????????????

Yup! If you are set to lightly active and adding those back in then you're double counting. I know it's nice to see that message but maybe just get in the habit of ignoring it. That's only a formula and is likely not often all that accurate. All those things you mentioned can really be considered part of your NEAT and just…

Just do what makes you feel best. Maybe just something light (half a banana, some yogurt, ...) if you don't like a full meal but want something. Personally, I get up and go at o'dark'thirty in the morning so I take my pre-workout and have a protein muffin or something. It's usually something in the 50-100 calorie range.

It makes sense to me! I feel like lifting has just become a part of who I am too. It's not a means to an end - it just is. It's part of my life and not something I'm trying to try and lose weight like it was at first. I can't wait to get back to it every time over the last 18 months that I've had to back off from it and I…

Yea!! I'm so happy for you! It sounds like it's going great and you are where you want to be. That's fantastic!

First, the order for now is really not that important. Doing it is what matters. For adjusting it, you can always ask one of the trainers that's there at the time - this doesn't need to be a session. Also, some machines might have a description right on it. Lastly, for how many - shoot for 3 sets of 8-12 reps. Pick a…

Can you write down what your trainer has been telling you to do and keep doing those things with some kind of progression? I'm not sure what you've been working on but this might be a place to start. Missing time with your kids does suck but a healthy and happy mom is also good for them. It might take a while to get in to…

I agree that a raise to maintenance and a good beginner strength program is a great next step for you. You will start to get energy back and hopefully come to love using weights. You will see some newbie gains which is a great motivator but also understand that the whole process takes time and more time. Like was said,…

I always cook it in a mix of milk and almond milk and then add these combos: - banana, chocolate protein powder, ground flax - apples, cinnamon protein powder, ground flax - dried cranberries, vanilla protein powder, ground flax The fruits and the powder offers enough sweetness for my personal palette.

That's great! The feeling of continually getting stronger and stronger is so motivating too.

Those are some excellent strength gains!!

Using those hours is a great idea. However, I would also suggest doing some of your own research because some trainers aren't actually all that knowledgable or try and steer women in the wrong direction. Starting with a great weight training program is the best idea, IMO. Things like New Rules of Lifting for Women,…

Great advice already! Just remember that everyone is there for the same reason so no one is staring at you for any negative reason. Have a plan of attack, put your music on and go for it! It's only new the first time and just keeps getting easier and easier. I laugh at myself now for how long I waited to head over to "that…

Ugh, losing weight i"m sure is frustrating but as women, we tend to go up and down anyway so hopefully it's not a real loss. You're still doing great though and I'm loving following you in this!

Welcome to both of you!

Not this year but I've done it in the past. Those bridges were a beast!

Avocado's are very creamy and if you ask me, are delicious! Not everyone likes them though. The only way to know is get one. Just make sure to get a ripe one for the best flavor. I also use them as a spread on a turkey sandwich, in salads, mixed with quinoa, a spread on quesadilla's .... so many uses!

Personally, while olive oil is good fats, it adds up from a calorie stand point quicker than other things. If you are OK with boiled chicken, then if it was me, I would stick with boiling it and maybe add an avocado to it. Still good healthy fats, but a bit more food to be able to eat so while still calorically high, to me…

Another vote for Optimum Nutrition vanilla. I haven't had the vanilla ice cream one but the regular vanilla is good and I've never had an issue mixing it with things.

:laugh: Posted at the same time with a nearly identical answer!