tulips_and_tea Member

Great sandwich variations offered by @springlering62. As a picky eater, what else do you like to eat? Lunch doesn't have to be sandwiches. If you like rice or pasta, then there are endless variations by adding different proteins and vegetables.

I'd recommend taking your measurements, too (waist, hips, thighs, etc.). I know you mentioned bloating, so tracking your waist may help you to figure out what foods or what types of food cause the bloating. Information accurately gathered over time is very helpful to make a long-term food plan that makes you feel your best.

Well, what was the reason for the protein shake? Meal replacement, meal supplement, the myth that protein shakes are necessary for health and weight loss, etc.? A little more info would be helpful to address your specific situation. As I mentioned though, protein shakes aren't required to lose weight or to be healthy.…

I mean this in the nicest possible way: I think your mindset is a big part of the problem. You said you need to "start getting back in the struggle". Thinking of changes to benefit your health and your life automatically as a "struggle" is negative and turns the whole process into a dreaded chore instead of a CHOICE. I'm…

I didn't watch the video either but was wondering where tip #6 is. Agree that #1 is up to each person. As a non-breakfast eater, I focus on high protein lunches and dinners. Balanced meals are important, but if you don't know how many calories you're eating, then it's not a guarantee and does not "work every time". Moving…

How about changing the narrative: you have a sugar habit and not an addiction. As the above poster mentioned, habits can be broken, changed, and replaced with new ones. Every time you want something sweet to eat, drink a glass of water, talk a walk, or use your mini stepper for 10 min. Be consistent. Once you stop eating…

In addition to what @yirara posted, you do need to give it more time. 2 -3 weeks isn't long enough to know if what you're doing is right or not yet. What is your daily calorie goal? Are you accurately weighing and logging your food here (or somewhere)? Assuming you sleep close to 8 hours per night, "fasting" during that…

Per the bold, what about the other two days? Doesn't seem like it but overeating two days can wipe out the deficit we have on the other five days. Sorry you're feeling defeated, but it would be better if you had a scale at home to weigh yourself regularly and in consistent circumstances. Keeping up with two small children…

Very much depends on your meaning of "fussy". Do you have food allergies or intolerances? Do you have texture issues or is it just out of habit to eat the same things? Do you eat prepared food, or do you cook? More info would be helpful in order for others to make suggestions.

It's NOT "all in your head". It's all him. He's manipulating you and you deserve better! Please try to find a plan to leave and get the life you deserve.

Do you track and log your calories here? If so, you may want to open your diary to see if you are having some very common logging issues, because as you said, "The 500-700 calories just keeps me at a stagnant weight. And so far the 1350 was making me gain." But that just isn't possible. You'd be severely underweight if you…

Good advice from the above posters. How long is your hot season? I ask because some people handle the heat better than others. I am NOT one of those people. During the summer we have about 2 months of 100+ degree temps. Getting in any kind of meaningful workout during that time is about nonexistent. But I know it is…

Sorry to hear about the injuries, but it sounds like you're finding a variation of IF that is more sustainable for you, so that's definitely a win! Thanks for the update.

That is really weird. I mean, putting her things NEXT to yours I could see, but setting her things ON TOP of yours?! That is just odd. Since you do have a cordial relationship with her, I'd give her a pass, as Ann mentioned. But, yes, I'd try using a different spot for a while and see what happens. I purposely try to not…

That is a very beautiful sweater! Great work and great idea for a thread. I have no hobbies like that currently (really should try to learn something), but I recently adopted an 8-year-old cat who loves to be petted, so my hands are definitely busy a lot more now!

Your current way of eating and lifestyle are quite interesting. I'm glad you continue to post updates. I also agree with your minimalistic viewpoint regarding food and life in general. I've done the same for the past several years and it is very freeing. I hope your co-worker will learn from your example. Not necessarily…

It doesn't matter who else is or isn't impressed with your weight loss. YOU are and that's all that matters! Thank you for continuing to update us on your progress. You've dealt with a lot of obstacles and have overcome them. Next time you see Cousin Evil, don't give her the satisfaction of trying to put you down. She…

Getting started is sometimes the hardest step! But you're here, so you're already making forward steps. I'd definitely start with small changes, as already suggested, both for yourself and your children. Setting a good example and teaching them how to eat healthy is our responsibility as a parent. I'm not sure how old your…

As usual, I agree with @AnnPt77. Exercise has many health benefits, but as a busy working mom, don't add another "To Do" to your list. Be active when you can. Little things here and there add up. It doesn't need to be formal or structured or timed. I know you said you can't even do at-home workouts, but again, change your…

Congratulations on finding your "why" (very important step to success) and the new family! I personally don't feel that 50 is a "ripe, old age", but that's probably because I'm in that age range as well. How is the new year starting for you? Are you implementing your plans? It's great to want to not only be there for your…

I don't use small cutlery, but I do use small plates and bowls. It helps with serving sizes and portions for me. But, doing what you're already doing: chewing more, drinking water / fluids, and tasting your food is great! Mindful eating is very important.

Good advice has been given by the first two responses, but I'd add that just because most holiday and social events involve food it doesn't mean that you have to make that your main focus. A social event is meant to focus on the people and the conversations. Make that your priority and a bit of fun, holiday food here and…

Oh no, @AnnPT77! Yikes, sorry to hear about your fall! I hope you are doing okay and completely better soon.

I agree that more info would be helpful because the amount of activity you list is a lot. As is 7 days per week. Rest days are important. You don't want to get injured or burned out. I know you say you weigh and measure everything, but if you were truly eating only 1200 calories per day and were that active, the weight…

Yes, tips for what exactly? And how long have you been doing 3 hours per day on the bike? As Ann said, it may be sustainable for you, but it's highly unlikely. What about illness or injury (overuse, most likely)? Then what is your plan? Finding the correct calorie goal (daily / weekly) for your desired weight and learning…

I'm sorry that you're struggling, but you've made a good first step! You're also young, so I'm guessing you didn't have good examples of proper diet and nutrition growing up (I apologize if I'm wrong) which is not your fault, so now you need to educate yourself. Did you input your information here to get at least a daily…

I love green and herbal tea and drink it regularly. Does it "boost" my metabolism? NO. I guess the title of the thread is somewhat appropriate as it is posed as a question. Questionable assertation that tea of any kind will boost metabolism.

As you said, "Focusing on eating well and exercising combined with full time work as a therapist and supporting my wife with Alzheimer's. has kept my cup full (beyond belief).", that is a LOT for anyone to handle. I hope you have some support with your spouse. Being a full-time care giver is a long, difficult task. You…