BS: Fighting Fat 2008

Subject: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: pattyClink
Date: 01 Jan 08 - 01:23 PM

Who's fatter than they would like and planning to drop a few pounds (or stone) this winter?   Want to commiserate, offer support and encouragement?


We kicked off a plan at our house Dec. 26. So far so good. It was inspired by a chance encounter with this very well researched book, which seems to have decoded our problem with weight loss. Anybody else read it yet?

Good Calories, Bad Calories - Amazon page & reviews

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: skipy
Date: 01 Jan 08 - 02:00 PM

Stop eating crap out of hours that you don't need!
there is no more to it!
Skipy

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,pattyClink
Date: 01 Jan 08 - 02:23 PM

We have a failure to communicate, skipy. The question on the floor wasn't: Who's got a smartass remark to share?

If you're not fighting this battle, please make yourself comfortable on another thread.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 01 Jan 08 - 02:31 PM

yeh I've got to get in there and fight the good fight. My doctor tells me I've got to lose the weight or he can't operate on my heart.

I have no firm plan in mind - its going to be a long campaign. I'll tell you how things stand in a week or so.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: skipy
Date: 01 Jan 08 - 02:33 PM

PC, I AM fighting this battle, believe me! My wife is twice woman I married & getting bigger by the year! My time on this planet is limited (as pointed out by my doctor just yesterday!) Her job is to bring the kids up, she must stay alive to do that & constantly eating "crap" is NOT a good idea.
Skipy

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,MarkS
Date: 01 Jan 08 - 02:45 PM

Gotta say I am conflicted here. I quit (at last) smoking about 3 months ago and of course have got the expanding belly! My doc says I would need to gain 100 lbs to do the same harm I was doing by my pack a day plus habit.
Soooooo - for New Years I figure I am safely enough smoke free to now try phase 2, and drop the extra pounds.
The conflict is to drop the weight without starting up the smokes again!
Why dont we all check in every month or so and post our progress. We can become a Mudcat support group!
Regards
Mark

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: autolycus
Date: 01 Jan 08 - 02:48 PM

The following is offered in the spirit of support.

I was told by a friend that lots of people ear/snack between meals when they are not hungry, BUT they are thirsty.

So if you do that, you might have a go at sipping water instead of snacking. In many cases, you'll find that it was water your body was asking for.

Happy New Year

Ivor

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Midchuck
Date: 01 Jan 08 - 03:01 PM

This is a problem you _can_ run away from. For a while.

But then your joints get old and you can't, and it comes back.

My problem is, all through middle age, I could eat like a teenager and hold weight steady, 'cause I was running 20-40 miles a week. Now I'm not, and I have to change my diet relatively late in life.

But I get hungry.

Peter

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Dan Keding
Date: 01 Jan 08 - 03:16 PM

Neighbors,

I'm on to aid/offer support/stand beside those battling the expanding waistline. I decided that starting tomorrow I'm on a quest to drop 20 pounds by my birthday in May and ten more by Labor Day and five to ten more by the end of 2008.

Let's keep in touch and see how we are doing, etc.

Dan

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: gnu
Date: 01 Jan 08 - 03:26 PM

I'm in. Haven't read that book... nor even the ones in the bookcase in the kitchen. Every time I go in the kitchen, I am too busy with other things.

I'll trace this thread and check it daily.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,pattyClink
Date: 01 Jan 08 - 09:20 PM

Glad to see we are not alone!   

The book was written by a journalist specializing in health, and he digs into what is really known (i.e. proven by studies) and what is not, about how weight is gained and lost. (the quaint idea of 'fact-based' science) The evidence has been stacking up bit by bit, decade by decade, that more and more of us develop 'disturbed' metabolisms that relentlessly pack away nutrients into fat cells, and resist mightily letting those fats ever be released for use as energy, instead causing us to crave ready fuel from more carbohydrate eating.    It seems to relate back to the modern population being flooded with way more carbohydrates than the human body is ready for.

Anyway, and regrettably, the evidence shows that people who severely restrict carbohydrate intake are able to work around this syndrome.

So, we are pursuing this approach to deal with the weight and related illnesses in our house, and so far it's working. Lots of meat, salad, vegetable soup, nuts, cheese, eggs, water, tea.   I don't even want to talk about all the no-no's, because I've got to keep the old eyes 'on the prize' of getting healthier whatever it takes.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 01 Jan 08 - 09:28 PM

There is a separate chat room called Wighty Issues set up for moral support, commiseration, sharing recipes, etc. Misery loves company.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 12:53 AM

Someone awhile ago posted about www.sparkpeople.com and how it had helped them to keep track of what they ate, exercise, etc. I started using it and have lost eleven pounds. I've also been motivated to get on the treadmill consistently. Blew the eating a little bit over the holiday with some treats, but I am back on track now. I have many, many reasons to lose quite a bit and I am on my way.

I will check out the book as I have read such before and it makes sense to me. I am doing my own kind of eating including a couple of simple salads per day and I actually crave them! Plus an orange, banana, fig or other fruits a couple of times per day and I drink only water. That's an easy one because that's all I have wanted to drink for years. I allow myself 2-3 Hershey kisses with almonds per day, also. Yummy granola with a high protein count, rice milk and a little bit of shredded wheat for breakfast and I am good to go. I have found I have to really work at getting enough protein as I am vegetarian. I notice I lose better when I get enough. Check out Spark People...it does a great job of helping watch your counts. It also helps to be accountable to someone. When I know I am going to be seeing my doctor, I am REALLY motivated!

wld, my docs had no choice but to operate on my heart and I was up to 255 lbs due to congestive heart failure. They managed it quite well. Maybe you should get a second opinion?

skipy...don't be checking out any time soon, okay, dang it?

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 01:12 AM

I lost 25 pounds last year, and though a few crept back over the holidays, I'm feeling much better than I have in several years. But now I have to lose the last 15 pounds. I'm trying to stay at a level place for now and when the yard work starts up again in the spring I'll mow and dig and chop the weight off.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 05:16 AM

I had my last cigarette 16 months ago and I fortunatley didn't put weight on. I put on a stone and a half in pregnacy which I lost really quite quickly afterwards. I continued to lose weight and have in total lost 5 stone in 2 years. Its slow progress but I hope that by losing the weight slowly I'll be able to keep it off. Over the festive season I have put on 6lbs but I am back to walking everyday, roughly 5 or 6 miles, and I'm not eating crap.

Best of luck to everyone trying to lose weight. It's important to up your exercise levels as well if you can.

Keep motivated!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 05:49 AM

Shame you stopped eating crap Catherine, because I just found a new supplier....

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 05:59 AM

Really!?!...

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Marilyn
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 07:32 AM

I'm in - need to lose a lot of weight.

By the way, Skarpi - I do eat healthily, no rubbish, and I always have. For some people it just isn't that simple.

Like Kat I have congestive heart failure, also bad angina so exercising vigorously to control weight just isn't an option. When I was running every day I was able to eat to appetite and still stay slim; then I had a heart attack and the pounds piled on. And yes, I was slim and very fit when the heart attack happened - the weight is since the heart attack, not the cause of it.

Perhaps, if we all support each other, there just might be a chance of success. I really do hope so.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Wesley S
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 09:11 AM

Since late June I've lost around 23 pounds. My goal for the holidays was to not gain it back. It seems to have worked. So my total weight loss goal is around 40 pounds more - and I'm sure I can do it. It's all about reasonable expectations { one to three pounds per week }and sticking with whatever program works for you. Mine is fewer calories in { do I want this - or NEED it? } and more calories out via exercise. I've been doing a lot of walking - and it's time to get air in the tires of my bike.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,maire-aine
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 09:37 AM

I had some health problems earlier in the year, but they're better now. I was told i had diabetes, but i decided to fight back. I lost 41 lbs since March, and I had a blood test last month that said my blood sugar is back to normal, my good cholesterol is up and bad cholesterol is way down.

My doctor sent me to a series of diabetes education classes held at the hospital, and one of the sessions included meeting with a dietitian. My diet calls for counting carbohydrates-- i get 45g for breakfast, 60g for lunch, 45g for supper & 30g for an evening snack. With most food having nutrition labels that list carbs, it isn't very hard to keep track. i've learned to plan ahead if i want something in particular. I've dropped white bread completely, but i miss waffles.

Looking to lose another 30 during 2008, but anything in that direction would be good.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,Slag
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 10:42 AM

I've spent the last two weeks preparing for the battle! Put on, probably 10 pounds as a vanguard for the enemy. I will try to avoid the up-coming birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and the like and hope I can hit a safe routine. I'll check in for tips and inspiration. I'm 6'2" and about 275. I'd happily give away the 75 but I'd settle for 50. I'm a little crippled up due to an old motorcycle injury and that makes many forms of exercise difficult or impossible. Controlling the diet will be my main strategy. Good luck and good hunting(?)to us all.

Hunting up diets? Perhaps?

Tom

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 11:26 AM

Count me in, too. I started seeing a nutritionist in October and have lost about 10lbs so far. My mother died from complications of diabetes almost a year ago and I have an iffy blood sugar reading at my last physical. I'll be 36 in 4 weeks and I'm not ready to accept my mother's fate. I'm counting carbs (but still eating some) and I'm up to 15 minutes a day on the treadmill. This is a big deal for me, because I have been heavy my entire life (weighted almost 10lbs at birth and it's been downhill ever since).

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 11:40 AM

Marilyn, thankfully I was able to get better by having an aortic valve replaced, so no chf for me, any more, BUT my exercise level was nil because of it, so I know what you are going through. I was slim and a size 7 before a hysterectomy, then failing heart. Now, 2.5 years later (after surgery), I am doing much better. I hope there is something you are able to do to recover from your chf; I know; losing weight is an important step.

For those who may need a modified exercise program, please consider Lee Holden's Qi Gong for Seniors. He has his mom doing it with him and while she is very fit looking, she demonstrates how you can do it in a chair. I would also highly recommend Peggy Cappy's "Yoga for the rest of us". Here's some more info:

"You don't need to be thin, young, and a contortionist to do this program," says instructor Peggy Cappy. Yoga for the Rest of Us is a yoga practice for people who might be inflexible, out of shape, or feeling aches and pains. Cappy presents three 20-minute routines that work separately or together. Part 1 is a series of warm-up seated stretches. Part 2 presents standing poses, holding a chair if needed. Part 3 is a flowing series of Sun Salutations, building stamina, and again using a chair if necessary, followed by relaxation. Public television yoga instructor Cappy teaches gently and quietly, accompanied by demonstrators of various ages and conditions. Recommended for people who thought that yoga was beyond them because of age, medical conditions, or fitness level, especially those with functional challenges, such as not being able to bend down or reach for a top shelf. --Joan Price

Both videos are very valuable and doable for persons of all abilities.

kat

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Maryrrf
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 11:40 AM

I need to shape up too! Was doing okay but Christmas goodies did me in and I must get back on track. I had good luck with Spark People . It's a free site that offers many tools to track calories, nutrition, excercise and hopefully, your weight loss progress.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 12:28 PM

Mary, was it you who posted about Spark People, before? If so, thank you! I have really liked using it.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Maryrrf
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 01:26 PM

It might have been me, I've been using them for a while. Similar tools to Weight Watchers - but free!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: bobad
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 09:44 PM

I came across this article "Weight loss is all in your head" and thought it might be of interest here.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: TRUBRIT
Date: 02 Jan 08 - 10:27 PM

Good luck to you all!!!! I am blessed with weight that is where I want it to be and very little appetite for the things that push the weight out of control (except for a passion for white wine and gin and tonic.........but ice cream and most candies leave me cold). Good luck to you all -- I was briefly married yeah these many years ago to a guy who ate less than I did and always had a huge weight problem. My (present) husband eats modestly for a big man -- not as little as I do but certainly not excessively, and weight is an ongoing problem for him. Speaking personally I loathe to exercise and live in constant fear of waking up some day to find that I can't control my weight any more and I have to ---- eeekkkkk - exercise! SO again I say, good luck to you all.........

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 01:59 AM

Apparently my heart is a bit strange. I have an abnormally sited artery - if it was a washing machine - it would be plumbed in wrong. The operation to rectify this will involve cutting off this artery that goes into the wrong chamber of the heart, and making another hole in the heart and reconnecting it. Quite involved!

As a consequence, I have had to give up work and I can't carry things. I get confused, because they say different things every time I see somebody else - a surgeon (usually fairly hot to trot) or a cardiologist or my GP (all of whom say I should lose weight before entertaining hopes of surgery, fear of a stroke being a factor).

Anyway everybody agrees I should lose weight and exercise more. I was going to private swimming pool at a hotel. Til some bright spark decided at the onset of summer (early may) to reduce the temperature of the water. it was so bloody cold I was getting angina.

I've got an exercise bike and a rolling stones record and I've started to count calories. I have a lot to lose - maybe seven stones (98lbs). I am going to check out another swimming pool this week.

I don't want to join a slimmers club as I have lost weight before with them, but they take too long a time - I need something a bit more drastic. Looking back I can understand my weight problems were due entirely to this heart condition - which was only revealed after nearly two years of tests, after I first got angina. It forced me into a lifetime of sedentary pursuits, without my hardly knowing it.

Of course, I didn't understand my body so I put weight straight back on - the moment I stepped off the slimming club regime. i wonder if my experiences of slimming ring any bells with any of you.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Marilyn
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 05:30 AM

Kat - thank you so much for the encouragement and the links to the two exercise routines. I was keen on yoga many years ago and have been thinking of taking it up again so your suggestion is very timely.

I guess I need to lose something in the region of 80lbs altogether. This is just too big a target for me to cope with mentally so I intend breaking it down into smaller targets and fooling myself into believing it isn't so bad!!

For now, my target is to lose somewhere between 10 and 15 pounds by Easter. This should be achieveable but, from experience, I know that, even on a very strict diet, I only lose a few ounces a week so, believe me, this would be a real achievement if I can manage it.

There, I've told you all that I intend to be a stone (14lbs) lighter by Easter so now I've got to do it, haven't I?

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 07:32 AM

As Joey Fagan says in The Committments, I believe in starts.....So great start Marilyn, and all the best with it! I'm sure we're all with you, every step of the way.

I've started Paul Mckenna's hypnotism tapes. I tried a real hynotist about a year ago. It was very good. I lost about a pound a week, but I could not afford his fees.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,maire-aine
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 09:57 AM

Now that I've lost a little weight, I'm ready to do more walking, except that it's 7F (-13 C) outside, so it'll need to warm up a bit. And I plan to get new tires on my bike, since they're predicting gas up to $4 & more a gallon.

M

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 10:08 AM

Just came from my nutristionist this morning and I lost another 1.5 lbs...over Christmas! That was a big achievement for me.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 11:13 AM

Thank you, Captain Obvious.
People have weight problems for a variety of reasons. If you're not going to be helpful and encouraging please go spread your "cheer" on another thread.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Kim C
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 11:19 AM

Yep, I've put on about 20 pounds over the last couple years. Dangit.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 11:30 AM

Poor old Ghoster. that's two threads in two days he's been told to sod off.

We're basically all fat people here, who believe in beating our kids to within an inch of their lives.

The trouble is that none of us are open minded enough to take on board your well founded comments.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Stu
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 11:34 AM

$4 & more a gallon

Bliss!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,maire-aine
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 12:03 PM

I guess it's all relative. That's double what it was 2 yrs ago.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 12:25 PM

Marilyn, glad you found the info helpful.

One way I use to not get freaked out by the large amount I am losing is to watch my words; I am programming my subconsciousness, much as a hypnotist might do, to manifest what I feed it, i.e. one meditation/affirmation might be "I give thanks I am a healthy size 12. I give thanks for this or something better for the highest good of all concerned." That puts me already there, in my subconscious, AND "size 12" sounds a lot less daunting, to me, than "98 pounds!" Another tool: notice I said "I am losing..." rather than "I am trying to lose." It may seem simple, but our words really are valuable and we do well when we spend them wisely.

wld, good luck with that! Wish you lived near Spaw. They have world-class docs there who seem able to take care of almost anything! I understand about heart things making us sedentary and all. In my case it was a hysterectomy at the same time they discovered the leaky valve when I was twenty-sex. I did fairly well until we moved back to the high altitudes in Wyoming when I was forty. Four years of that and I was on the oxygen until surgery eight years later. Not very conducive for exercise, etc.! I am living proof that things can turn around, though.

Congrats to all who have lost and are losing. This is a great effort and I love to see the support we have for one another.

kat

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 12:41 PM

"In my case it was a hysterectomy at the same time they discovered the leaky valve when I was twenty-sex"


hehehe...Hello, Dr. Freud?

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 12:47 PM

OHmygawd! That's some typo! I didn't even see it, Becca!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Folkiedave
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 12:48 PM

I went to a dietician and she asked the usual questions.

As a veggie I was (and still am) pretty proud of the way I eat. I could see her mentally scrubbing out her normal advice as I seemed to eat pretty carefully - not snacking, conscious of wholefoods, five a day - all the boxes ticked, not even huge portions etc etc.

Then she looked up from the page and said "What about drinking?"

"Aha" I confessed, "Got me there!"

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Pseudolus
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 02:07 PM

Hey, just found this thread! My wife and I started our plan last year at this time and it seems to have worked. We went straight to maintenance. In other words, we didn't deprive, we didn't starve, we just ate smart (bought a Heart Association Cook Book and actually used it!) and when we couldn't we ate in moderation. We figured our weight would find itself. Three VERY important things however, we cut out eating between meals, we cut out fast food altogether and we cut out sodas as well. Once I was down 20 pounds I was actually able to start excercising! I finished the year down 48 pounds! Got a few back over the holidays but we're right back on track. I'd like to go another 20 pounds by summer....

Good Luck to All!!!!
Frank

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: kendall
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 02:48 PM

I've known Becca 72 longer than anyone and I have never seen her over eat.

Go for it Luv, I'm with you all the way.

I've been a bit heavy since puberty, hanging right around 14 stone. However, during this latest lashup, I lost 7 pounds simply because I couldn't swallow. Somehow I've managed to keep it off too.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 02:58 PM

I had a look at Spark but don't think it's for me. I am wheat, rice and cows milk intolerant and don't do well with most complicated carbs either. Hence any eating plan has to be tailored to what I can ingest without causing me problems.

I need to lose about 30lbs right now - any more than that and I start looking ill. We're looking at buying an exercise bike to help and, once I've shaken off the cold that I have, I'll be out on the beach with the dog again. Then it's just a matter of curbing the appetite, probably the hardest thing of all to do.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 03:08 PM

The "don't eat between meals" theory is going by the wayside for most, Frank. Many health care professionals are now suggesting eating several small meals a day to maintain your blood sugar levels and curb hunger. I am actually eating more now than I did before I started seeing the nutritionist but now I'm eating the right things.

But you have to do what works for you, of course.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 03:24 PM

That's what I have found to be true for me, too, Becca.

Jacqui, I don't use Spark at all for meal planing. I just use the counter to keep track of what I've had for protein, carbs, fat, cholesterol, and sodium. Sodium is the big thing for me to watch. I cannot have over 1,000 mg per day, so I do a lot of from-scratch meals. The other thing I like about Spark is I can look up things I have a hankering for and "budget" for them in my daily planning. That way I don't feel guilty or deprived and I don't gain when I have a treat.

I do NOT believe in diets, per se. I believe in eating in moderation, etc. as others have noted.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Wesley S
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 03:50 PM

Is anyone brave enough to throw away their "fat clothes" as they grow out of them? I'm starting to purge my wardrobe and donate to a clothing bank.I don't want anything to fall back on.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 04:20 PM

Yeh I'll do that if I ever get to lose any weight,

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Bee-dubya-ell
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 04:20 PM

Fighting Fat!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Bill D
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 05:12 PM

LOLOLOL!!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,pattyClink
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 09:32 PM

Wow, what a lot of inspiration, encouragement, information, and now chuckles too! Thanks for all the ideas and stories and links.

Doing okay here. Got through 2 days at work without getting near the snack machine, which I was worried about (brought a few almonds and string cheese to cope with the temptation). Got through 2 lunches featuring stuff wrapped in big lettuce leaves instead of bread. Drinking water, eating the right stuff, working out. Now if the scale would just MOVE DOWN tomorrow morning!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: TRUBRIT
Date: 03 Jan 08 - 10:56 PM

Becca72 -- WELL DONE!!!!!!Over the holidays that is some achievement.....! And I have lived with two people who never did overeat and could not, COULD NOT, manage their weight. It isn't all about the food!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 04 Jan 08 - 03:26 AM

yep, I've been throwing away my fat clothes as I grow out of them although I have had the sewing machine out and taken in a few skirts and tops because I can't afford to replace clothes as quickly as I can throw them away!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Jan 08 - 12:48 PM

Yeah, maternity clothes went out a long time ago, here.:-)

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 04 Jan 08 - 02:46 PM

Yours or your daughter's????
LOL

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Jan 08 - 03:56 PM

Mine! Though, I think she got rid of most of hers, too. One c-section was enough for her, I hope!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 04 Jan 08 - 04:09 PM

Dare we set up a table of outgrown clothes at the Getaway? Those of us who have reached Size 8 can donate their 10s and 12s; the 10s and 12s can add theuir 14s and 16s and so on up to the preggie stuff.
Everyhting must be clean, pressed and wearable - tough for those of us with large bosoms that catch everything...and for those with colicky babies who cough up all sorts of nastiness on Mom.

A suggestion:
Measure yourself and cut pieces of ribbon to the length - bust, waist and hips. As you lose, cut the ribbons and save the cuttings for a symbolic burning. Or wait until you reach goal and cut to fit. You will have tangible proof of your success.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Joe_F
Date: 04 Jan 08 - 08:31 PM

I am not fat, but I saw my weight creeping up and wanted to put a stop to it. I am lucky in that I have never been in the habit of eating between meals. On the other hand, I am not willing to resort to diet ("lite" -- ick) foods. So what works for me is just to cut the size of portions. I used to make an omelet with two extra-large eggs; I cut that to two large, then two medium, and then one jumbo. I used to have 1/2 lb of meat or fish at dinner; I cut that to 1/3 and then 1/4. Of course, if I eat a meal in a restaurant the portions are far too large; in that case I have half the order wrapped up and/or skimp on the other meals that day.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Jan 08 - 09:15 PM

Cutting portions certainly helps, JOe. Thanks!

Sins, I love your suggestion! The ribbon one, not the Getaway table one.:-)

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 05 Jan 08 - 04:32 AM

Weelittledrummer - I'm with you on the dicky ticker preventing excercise. For years my doctor thought I was asthmatic, so treated me for that every time I had an 'attack'. Then a stressful situation arose and I started fainting on a weekly basis. Investigations showed an arrythmia (irregular heartbeat) that meant as I excercised, my heart pushed blood around too fast for the oxygen to be aborbed.

Heart was fixed, weight went down as I had more energy to do more walking. and stuff.

I've noticed over the last 9-12 months though, that the old symptoms are coming back as is the weight, so I'm thinking about going back to the cardiologist.

The only advice I can give is make it realistic, make it steady and make it routine. Don't set absurd goals, don't be tempted to crash diet and don't give up doing it.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 05 Jan 08 - 07:56 AM

Its very weird isn't it Liz? When you look back, you suddenly understand what maybe thirty of forty or even in my case over fifty years of experience have been about. You feel like you may have misinterpreted your whole life - because you didn't know, and totally misunderstood what you were feeling. Perhaps you were puzzled at the time, why am I feeling like this. In truth though a lot of the tests that made the present diagnosis possible, simply weren't available even just a few years ago.

I feel certain the heart problems were genetic in origin, and what in my mother's case was diagnosed, when she was a child, as rheumatic fever was this heart thing.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Ron Davies
Date: 05 Jan 08 - 10:07 AM

It's just not reasonable to expect people to give up snacking. I'm sure this is obvious too--but just in case, the thing to do is to make sure the snacks are--only--healthy. Yogurt --(I suppose non-fat is better than low-fat, but I don't go that far),-- carrots, fruit, nuts (without sugar) and vegetables in general--and lots of water---as has been noted before.

Try to get some exercise every day. I don't think asking for real exercise every day is reasonable either--but walking about a mile should be--at your own pace. Even slow walking--noting flora and fauna--is better than no walking.

And if you eat a big meal, the earlier in the day the better--so you have a chance to work some of it off. Worst thing is to eat a big meal late in the day. I'm lucky enough to be able to come home and eat something nourishing before going to rehearsal on Tuesdays--but lots of people come right from work to rehearsal. Then during the break, they gorge themselves on the junk food--cookies etc.--that's offered. Unfortunately, for some it seems to register in pounds.   Our singing may be aerobic--but not aerobic enough.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: LilyFestre
Date: 05 Jan 08 - 12:07 PM

I am continuting to work on weight issues this year. My goal is to be 100 pounds lighter by Mother's Day and I am pretty darn close! :) What's been working for me is this: I eat whole foods (very little processed food) and exercise daily. Exercise isn't such a chore when you find something that you LOVE to do.

:) Michelle

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: kendall
Date: 05 Jan 08 - 01:59 PM

One diet that is guaranteed to work...If it tasts good, spit it out.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 05 Jan 08 - 06:05 PM

I heartily concur with that WLD, in fact, it may well have cost me a job - I was sacked for taking too much time off sick with "asthma".

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Marilyn
Date: 06 Jan 08 - 06:38 AM

Thanks, Kat and WLD for encouraging comments and support - it does make a difference - I don't feel so alone in my struggle!

No success so far, though (but then I haven't been trying very hard so that's no surprise). Am starting in earnest tomorrow - fingers crossed!

Good luck to everybody - keep telling about your successes (and failures) because it helps to know we're all working together!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From:
Date: 06 Jan 08 - 03:56 PM

Seems to me that this bloke has really got to the heart of the matter. Are you serious or are you not?

http://opinionjournal.com/taste/?id=110011081

Hmmm. that was supposed to be a link, still,copy and paste will do.

jack

link fixed - el joe clone

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,pattyClink
Date: 06 Jan 08 - 05:22 PM

Interesting link. I don't have the cash to risk such an experiment, but I guess the main point, as you say, is to get serious--and maybe give yourself a serious incentive to do so.

Since we're getting lots of good ideas about 'what works for me' here's one: plan meals. Sit down once a week with a pencil and pad and just jot down what you think you'll eat; bearing in mind what you already have on hand to use up. Good time to clear out the fridge and note what's in there.   Then grocery shop for stuff you need to make those meals, including all the veggies and salad stuff. Don't get crazy and plan every morsel, allow some slack for leftovers and a night out.   

It seems a bit compulsive in the life of a free spirit, but it really helps get rid of that desperate grabbing for something quick and starchy to fix at the last minute.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: JennieG
Date: 07 Jan 08 - 12:55 AM

My bugbear is exercise, no matter what form it takes - I hate it. I know it's necessary but geez I reckon it is a waste of time. I go for a 30 minute walk most days and all I can think of is "that's 30 minutes of my life gone that I can never get back". In those 30 minutes I could have read 30 pages of a book, or sewn several seams, or answered a few emails....something to show for my time.

Don't tell me how good it is for me, I know all that crap. I have to exercise because of high blood pressure, something I never had in my life until a couple of months ago. Unfortunately I fit some of the criteria - a family history of hypertension, and getting older, are two factors I can't change.

While I'm not fat, I am carrying more weight than someone my build should. So I am trying to watch what I eat and to go on those dreary walks. If I lose 10kg in the meantime I would be a happy little bunny - 15kg, even better.

Thank you for listening, I feel better now!

Cheers
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 07 Jan 08 - 02:07 AM

Sneak the exercise in without realising it - that's the way to get it done.

Take a bus to work? Walk to the next stop instead of your usual or get off a stop earlier than yours. Of course, this isn't possible if there are several miles between bus stops but in an urban or metropolitan environment, this is quite easy. Sooner or later, you may find yourself not bothering with the bus at all, but walking to work.

Walk around the office more - go and find the person you need to speak to, rather than calling them on their extension. Walk down the stairs instead of taking the lift if it's only a couple of floors.

Get a book of Pilates exercises and adapt them to do at your desk - there are lots of leg stretches and shoulder rolls that you can do sitting down, muscle flexing that can be done unobtrusively and relaxation techniques to help with breathing.

Hands up everyone who drives less than a mile to get to a gym where they pay to walk for 5 miles. You'd be surprised at how many people do just that.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 07 Jan 08 - 03:34 AM

If you can do it swimming is an excellent form of exercise as the water supports your body.

I only had one piece of maternity wear to pass on to the charity shop, I was lucky enough not to have to go out and buy a lopad of clothes for a few months. I've got a friend who is battling with her weight ater pregnancy and an under active thyroid, she eats well and healthily but just can't seem to shift the weight. I'll direct her to this thread so she can get some support and ideas too.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 07 Jan 08 - 08:25 AM

I've been seeing a nutritionist since (pause to look in folder) - first appointment May 2005.

My Dr sent me cos I was pre-diabetic & I weighed in at 89kg (height 168cm or 5'7& 1 quarter inches). I'm aiming for about 70kg - when I can comfortably wear a skirt I made in 1978. Remember that line from the ballads about wearing an apron high? Tho that referred to young ladies in the family way, not middle age spread like mine.

Last appointment in Nov I was 74.3kg but I have been about the same for a year. My lowest was 71.7 Nov 06 & since then I've fluctuated because I can't be bothered. Part of that comes from settling into retirement, but the other is the old enemy the blaaahs (low level depression) that I know I can snap out of, but .... I can't be bothered!

My nutritionist recommended a book about Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Dr Sarah Edelman's 'Change your Thinking' but I've found it almost impossible to concentrate on when I've tried to read it (hmmmm).

I also have a lot of problems with exercise (I hate it!) but am often too sore to do much. My first physio described me as badly put together & an accident waiting to happen, so I'm limited in what I can do.

My physio sent me to her Senior's Tai Chi & Gentle Exercise class (I'm the token 55 year old - the others are in their 70s & 80s & one member is 91!!) She also suggested I walk against the current in the Rapid River area of our local Aquatic Centre & exercise in the Hydrotherapy pool, plus walk around the local park when I can.

I have a electrical problem with my heart (not heart disease) & my cardiologist talks about fast-moving & puffing exercises that I can't do, but I ignore him as he doesn't listen to me. Perhaps I need to ask my physio to send him a report, maybe he might listen to her.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 07 Jan 08 - 08:59 AM

Sandra - your electrical problem - if, after exercise or a sudden movement like getting up from a crouch or bending down, you start getting light headed and/or dizzy, feel faint or actually pass out, go and get another cardiologist. It's a vicious circle where you can't exercise because your heart isn't working properly, so you gain weight which strains your heart more... please, get another opinion!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Bill D
Date: 07 Jan 08 - 09:46 AM

More & more is being learned about genetic basis for some obesity.


research on Leptin

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Midchuck
Date: 07 Jan 08 - 10:54 AM

I know it's necessary but geez I reckon it is a waste of time. I go for a 30 minute walk most days and all I can think of is "that's 30 minutes of my life gone that I can never get back". In those 30 minutes I could have read 30 pages of a book...

I thought I was the last person left in the world without an iPod.

Couldn't you listen to "talking books" while walking - either with one of those or an antique cassette player?

(But not if you walk on the road, in traffic - Please.)

Peter

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 07 Jan 08 - 11:23 AM

Hi. My name is kat and I don't own an ipod.**bg** (This is also the third time I've tried to post the following:)


Saw a segment on tv about the Joy Fit Club developed by a nutritionist. Obviously she is making money at it, but her book does look interesting and there are some really inspiring testimonials such as this one at msnbc: Click. She has stuff for vegetarians in it, which is important to me. The only thing I didn't like about what I heard was she recommended cereals that are only whole grain or oat, which is GOOD, but then mentioned prepackaged snack foods which I consider to be not good. Since her book/diet is based on 90 percent nutritious foods and 10 percent "fun" foods, I guess she's being realistic. I don't usually do very well with "books" of this kind and I don't know where she's at on low sodium, but I will at least take a look.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 07 Jan 08 - 02:41 PM

There's a joke that only really works in the UK.

I decided to go on a diet, so I walked to the bookshop and immediately lost twenty pounds. It's hard to find a cheap diet book.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: LilyFestre
Date: 07 Jan 08 - 07:57 PM

I used to hate to exercise too. HATED IT. I hated it so much that I lost 50 pounds without doing any of it (just normal daily activity stuff, no extras). But then I tried new things. Things I didn't think I could do. Things that are a little bit different (at least in my mind) than "normal" exercising. I found that I love to kayak, I love to do water aerobics (outside pool/water only), yoga rocks my world almost daily (think it's all about sitting around chanting? Try Ashtanga/Vinyasa flow!). I still do some traditional exercising but I think I get the most from the workouts that involve something I enjoy doing. I love being upside down and all stretched out or out paddling against the wind and small waves (they present a challenge for a kayak!) In the fall, I really enjoy walking in the woods...nothing ridiculous, a couple miles maybe, at a pace where I/we are enjoying the world and not racing to be anywhere....it is still exercise!

Next week I will begin coaching...I'm sure some natural exercise will come about with that too and instead of dreading it like I would have a year or so ago, I am really looking forward to it!!!!
   
So, it IS possible to lose a good amount of weight without adding the exercise but for me, I found that physical activity not only helps the weight loss along but it's fun.....playtime, even. If I don't enjoy it, I KNOW I won't do it for long.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: JennieG
Date: 07 Jan 08 - 10:13 PM

'Sallright Kat - I don't own an ipod either! I have one of those old-fashioned (but still working) radio-cassette players and I listen to that when walking.

Liz's advice about getting off the bus one stop early and walking the rest of the way is also good advice, except I drive to work. For a couple of years I went by train but Sydney's train service is a bit of a joke......gave it up when my morning train was cancelled once too often. One train every 30 minutes; if you miss that one you are are going to be 30 minutes late for work. Too bad.

Even at school I wasn't one of the sporty kids - I was one of the quiet ones reading in the corner, who do anything to get out of sport. The culture of the school I attended was to foster the kids who were 'good' at sport and not worry much about the others!

For several years I was also dancing regularly - contra, Irish ceildh, Scottish country etc - but after being injured by an over-enthusiastic partner several years ago I stopped for a while. When I thought of going back I was told by a bloke at one ball that, as an unacompanied woman, I wasn't welcome....so as far as I am concerned the Sydney dance scene can shove their dancing shoes where the sun don't shine. I don't expect to be treated like royalty when I am able to turn up, but I don't like being put down for trying either.

Never mind, I shall just keep walking occasionally. Now I am off to the library to borrow more Liz Byrski books......

Cheers
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 07 Jan 08 - 10:47 PM

Boy, he must've been a real jerk, Jennie! Lost a good dance partner, too, I am sure.

So now, Midchuck must feel better, knowing there are least two others who do not have ipods.**bg**

I was active enough growing up; rode horses, hiked with family, rambled with my dog, did gym classes in school, though I didn't exactly like those. My family used to tease me a bit about not keeping up with them when we did go hiking, but we all thought it was because I was the littlest and just had shorter legs at the time. I was still doing pretty well after I had my kids, my weight was no problem and I went dancing a lot, as well as riding horses and working full-time. Then I had a hysterectomy which caused weight gain and found out I probably was a slower hiker and got cold easily when out camping because my aortic valve leaked a bunch. I had an idiot cardiologist tell me to "run an extra mile" on those says when I felt like eating a candy bar. I say idiot, because I was unble to run even one mile! They explained to me my heart was beating extra fast to compensate for the leak, as a normal person's would when they'd run; running would not make it go any faster and I would run out of oxygen as it couldn't pump the oxygenated blood through my system any faster.

So, after many years of not being able to keep up one kind of exercise or another, though I did have a couple of good years of swimming and tai chi, I went downhill to until I was on oxygen for eight years, then new heart valve, you all have heard the rest.

Here I am, 2.5 years after the surgery and feeling well enough to really get going. I am up to ten minutes on the treadmill, my eating is good and I know the only thing which will probably really get my weight falling off is more time on the treadmill with a little dancing added in. I do little tricks with myself. If I want to watch a certain show on tv, I get on the treadmill to watch most of it, with half minute breaks every few minutes. Rog is weaning himself off cigarettes. When we are watching a movie together, when we pause it for him to go out for a smoke, I get on the treadmill. (I'm glad he is quitting and will find another reason to keep treadmilling.) I know it doesn't matter how much at a time, nor how long, but that I am consistent about doing something; that is what works for me.

There are plenty of days when I do not feel up to doing any of it. That's partly mental, though. Old thinking habits from when I really wasn't up for anything because the ticker wasn't working right. If I can talk myself into getting up and get moving regardless, I almost always feel better. If I can keep it up for a month or so I will change the old patterns into new, I hope.

I am also working on reminding myself to breath. With the supplemental O2, I got lazy with my breathing. I was able to get off it and do very well until pneumonia came for a visit. Now, I am slowly working my lungs and breathing up to capacity again.

So, moral to the too long posting? Take it one day at a time. Trite but true. Each day is a new start, so even if one has to say "Only for today I shall do this" it will work because you can do it, then get up the next morning and say the same thing and do it all again. Before you know it, you will have added up a bunch of days of "doing it" and can watch the clothes sizes change.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 02:17 AM

Liz - fortunately my electrical problem is nothing like that.

All I have is an occasional very irregular heart beat(arrythmia? spelling??) There I am pottering along at around 60 heart beats per minute when one beat goes up to 160, then it's back to 60. It is not heart disease (ie. heart muscles are not affected)

The first time I went to hospital cos my heart was racing & I was also hyperventilating which made it worse. I spent 10 hours hooked up to a monitor & had lotsa' tests, & when nothing showed up I was sent home & prescribed Beta blockers when/if needed.

No. 2 trip I was being released after 6 uneventful hours when the monitor showed the problem, so they kept me in overnight cos they finally had a diagnosis & a treatment.

sandra

Kat reminded me about school - I was useless at sport & had a nasty sports teacher who didn't like me cos I was useless at sport. To this day I don't put my head under water because she held my head under, & the only way I could swim was breast stroke with my neck up like a turtle, which is no good for my back, so I no longer swim. Another time she threw a medicine ball at my chest, surely she didn't expect me to catch it & throw if back? I couldn't run, jump, climb ...

It was only when I saw my first physio in the mid-late 80s that I was properly diagnosed. According to her my legs needed calipers when I was very young, & my hips & knees don't move & bend like other folks' hips & knees. Another proper diagnosis, about 40 years too late.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,LTS pretending to work
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 06:42 AM

Sandra - that sounds exactly the same as what happened to me. It wasn't until I fainted 3 times in 5 days just getting up from the fridge that anything got done about it.

I had many tests, one of which was the treadmill test. I was wired up to a monitor and started walking. After 10 minutes there was very little difference to the result. They let me sit down whilst the doctors and technicians talked to the 20+ students who were also in the room (it's a teaching hospital, I couldn't say no). Having sat resting for some 10 minutes, the machine suddenly started pinging loudly. Whilst sitting still, my heart rate had jumped from a steady 62 to 170 and then back down to 48. That's when they decided I really did have a problem and suggested a catheter ablation, where they burnt out the extra electrical impulses. It sounds very much as if you have a similar problem. In my experience, the ablation made a massive difference and I can only suggest you ask your cardiologist about it.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: greg stephens
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 07:46 AM

Well I'm on a familiar path. Gave up smoking(totally succesfully I'm glad to say) 3 or 4 years back, and now, of course, I'm twice the man I used to be. I can't afford to throw out all my old trousers, so I took action a few days back. I have drawn a little graph, with my weight descending by a stone from Jan 1 to May Day, which is represented by a sloping down line on the graph. Now, all I have to do is weigh myself, mark it up, and see the points on the graph are all under or on the line I've drawn in. And if it goes over, eat even less for a week. Now, this shouldn't be rocket science, looks pretty basic to me. I will report in a a week or two when I see if it works. Good luck, everybody.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 08:14 AM

Edmund tried to explain the merits of an Ipod to me over New Years. I wasn't convinced. One more thing for me to lose the charger for. I am still challenged by my cell phone.
So I too am a non-Ipod owner.
Started meds to bring my cholesterol down as well as changes in diet -simple things like one egg not two if I have any. Chicken not beef. Olivio not butter. So far it is relatively painless except for cutting out my evening wine. Actually with Micca here that never happened.
Oatmeal or whole grain cereal for breakfast instead of a breakfast sandwich at the office. I am avoiding the scale until I see my doctor next month. Simple changes not obsession. This medication has side effects that are at best unpleasant. The sooner I am off of it the better.
Exercise...I hate it. But I will use the treadmill three times a week and join a Yoga class as well as start some simple exercises to strengthen muscles.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 08:32 AM

That's a good tip Sins, not weighing yourself every day, but once or twice a month, certainly no more than once a week.

Take a set of measurements, make a note of them on the computer somewhere if you can (not advisable in a public library or at work). Don't measure yourself until a calendar month has passed. Enter the figures and forget about them.

Do this monthly and you'll see the difference better than if you did it more often.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 11:29 AM

I don't own a scale...the only time I find out how much I've lost is at my nutritionist appointment every 3 weeks. Saves on the obscession.

Also, I was one who never exercised...hated it. Then I got a treadmill when I hurt my back to try to do some physical therapy at home. A year later I decided to actually use it. The best set up is if you can put it in front of the TV and then use it for a 30 minute program. I don't have the space in my apartment for that, but I've learned that I can read while I'm using it. It's really what has kept me going on it. If I just had to stand there and walk for 20 minutes I'd have given it up by now.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Donuel
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 02:18 PM

Yup I gained about 10 pounds after cigy cessation.

Stopping soft drinks is a quick and easy 5 to 10 lb weight loss.

I worked for Therapeutic Hypnosis which was basicly a weight loss business. After about 3 years some of my fellow counselors got together in Syracuse NY and hatched the plan to start Weight Loss Center. That was almost 30 years ago. Instead of becoming a multi millionaire I did my own thing and continued to explore hypnosis in all its ramifications. (watch Derren Brown)

What was most sucessful for wt loss was cutting the amount of anything a person ate in half and require drinking water with every meal or snack. Sensation and behavior were modified via PHS. A second reduction by half followed about 2 months later.

After 14 years I retired my shingle.
Now I hafta lose 20 lbs. ;^[

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 02:32 PM

Here's a little story that will make you think about public gyms...

Here in the UK, we had a thing called 'Exercise on Prescription' which meant you'd visit your doctor with your long term medical condition (asthma, obesity, arthritis, whatever) and they would write you a prescription for a gym card. This would be taken to the local council run leisure centres where you would get a free induction and cut price sessions on the gym equipment.

I was put on this scheme and so ended up spending 2hours in the gym twice a week. This went on for about 4 months until I got a full time job. At my last session, I weighed a stone more than at my induction, something the coach couldn't understand why. I know muscle weighs more than fat, but I'd not gained that much muscle.

What had happened was this. The sessions were all in the afternoon, I'd do my workout, get hot, tired and hungry and so go for a sit down and something to eat in the gym cafeteria. The choices available in the cafeteria would be chips, curry, rice, pasta, baked potatoes or pies. I'd eat a baked potato and then go home. At home, I'd be so tired I'd flop out on the sofa for the rest of the evening. As soon as I stopped exercising and eating those bi-weekly baked potatoes, I started to lose weight.

The trick is to not eat at the gym, but to have your own packed lunch or snack box of healthy foods. The food at the gym was all low fat, but it consisted mostly of carbohydrates which I'd just spent 2 hours burning up. My body just thought 'we need these, give us more' and so I gained weight. I stopped going to the gym and within a month I'd lost that extra stone.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: greg stephens
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 02:37 PM

Here's a great idea I've just thought of. Don't eat anything you(or someone you're fond of) haven't cooked from scratch. Now, that way, you'll have decent food, and probably lose weight.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 03:05 PM

Greg, you obviously never met my mother...

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: greg stephens
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 03:20 PM

WEll, I said probably.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 03:45 PM

That does work for the most part, Greg.:-) It is really the only way to control the nutritional elements, esp. things such as sodium intake.

Would it be helpful if we had a separate thread just for checking in when we reach certain daily goals, i.e. just post with a blank posting IF you've managed to make it through a day of meeting your goals, be they eating, exercising, meditating/visualising, etc.? A way of holding ourselves to accountable to each other?

I started back on my Qi Gong, today and have noticed a remarkable improvement in my breathing. It is my goal to do this every day, along with another breathing thing which will build up my lung capacity to what it was before the pneumonia. I think I'd do a better job of making myself do this if I was to "report" in at Mudcat on the days I do so. What say you all?

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 03:46 PM

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 06:32 PM

Sounds like a great idea Kat.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 06:49 PM

Thanks, Jacqui. Here ya go: Holding ourselves accountable - weight-wise.

Sins, I take that as your first posting?**bg**

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: JennieG
Date: 08 Jan 08 - 11:45 PM

Don't forget sleep too! According to fairly recent studies (which could probably be found should one care to google) we need a minimum of 7 hours sleep a night to kick-start off any weight loss.

Days are getting rather busy aren't they.....each day has suddenly become 7 hours shorter!

Cheers
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 10:52 AM

Moving this over from the other thread:

ubject: RE: BS: Holding ourselves accountable - weight-wis
From: Rapaire - PM
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 09:31 AM

Part of what I'm fighting is genetic -- my paternal grandfather looked like a beer barrel with a head and limbs. Also, I've managed to obtain Type II diabetes from either AO exposure in the Army or via my ancestors and THAT means watching what I eat, watching my blood sugar, watching my exercise, watching my weight. Combine all that with mild COPD (never should have smoked a pipe or anything else!) and it can become tricky.

But it's all manageable, and I've spent as much as two hours at a stretch above 10,000 feet (I live at about 5,000 feet) without discomfort. Above 8,000 feet for any length of time can cause problems unless I'm there long enough to acclimatize.

Now, as I lose weight many of these problems will lessen.

I just don't recommend doing it the way I recently did.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Leadfingers
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 12:09 PM

100

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Pseudolus
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 12:45 PM

OK, I know this is a slow response but better late than never. The thing about not eating in between meals is not so much that I don't eat at all, but my in between meals eating was sometimes another 2 or 3 full blown meals. When I eat in between meals now, it is usually a banana or an apple. I also drink a lot of water to keep from feeling hungry all the time. I agree though, each of us will find what works best for them. Nothing worse than someone assuming that because their plan worked for them that it MUST work for you! For example, I know that a lot of carbs isn't the answer but to get myself kickstarted I was eating a ton of breakfast cereal (Cheerios, Special K, Rice Chex etc.) sometimes for breakfast ADN lunch, two bowls per meal with 1% milk. After losing weight it occurred to me that I needed to get a little more balanced for the long haul, so I did. I still eat breakfast cereal but I balance it out with protein and of course we are excercising! So far so good!

Great thread, tons of good ideas!!

Frank

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 01:05 PM

I actually started EATING breakfast. I have never been a fan and find it very difficult to eat shortly after I wake up, but if I wait an hour or so I'm ok with it. I usually do some high fiber cereal with 1% milk and a piece of fruit, or a whole wheat english muffin iwth peanut butter, fruit and about 6oz of 1% milk. Because I don't have breakfast until around 9am I'm not starving before lunch and I can eat something sensible around 12:30pm.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 01:21 PM

Frank, I do a combo of whole wheat Shredded Wheat, which is really good and has only one ingredient which also has lots of fiber, mixed with a yummy high protein granola I get at the health food store, for breakfast. I don't get hungry as much after having it AND I get the protein with the carbs. Here's the granola I use: Bear Naked Peak Protein. It's so tasty and the dried fruit means I don't want any sugar on my cereal. I use rice milk and am good to go!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Pseudolus
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 02:32 PM

I haven't thought of eating shredded wheat. I should try that. I never add sugar to my cereal not because of a health reason, I just like it plain, pretty boring huh? So I will probably go with the shredded wheat alone and save the bar for a snack. Thanks Kat!

Frank

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 03:04 PM

Frank, shredded wheat is the only cereal I have been able to find that has only the one ingredient, NO salt, NO sugar, etc. It's good stuff and eaten consistently it is supposed to lower cholesterol, too. Just a note, the granola I linked to is a cereal, not in bar form, though I think they have those, too. I like it because it has the protein in it.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 08:03 PM

Exercise Haters check it out!

Lazy Fitness Breathing Exercises plus there's much more including their 3 Day Diet Plan.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Slag
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 08:25 PM

Fat: 1, Slag:0 sigh!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Susan of DT
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 09:02 PM

I started dieting last January - more or less the South Beach diet with low carbs and low fat. I lost 25 pounds in the first six months, mostly hips and belly, and then lost nothing more in the next six months. So I am trying to be serious about it again to see if I can lose the remaining 50 pounds in the next year or two.

I go to the gym three times a week and have for about three years. I was annoyed that that alone did not lead to weight loss, but it probably kept me from gaining more weight when I retired.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 11:06 PM

6 days a week I start the day (about 90 minute after I wake) with 1 quarter cup of home-made cereal - one of the plainest mueslis (not the ones with added sugar etc) + oats + rice flakes + barley flakes + oat bran + polenta + extruded 4-Brans + wheat or oat germ. I add a heaped breakfast spoon of linseed & sunflower seeds, half a banana & about 150 ml of buttermilk. Finally I add 2 dessertspoons of Omega3 oil. Yum.

I also have a boiled egg (on a separate plate!) On Sunday I have brunch of a fried eggy/omelette thing & 2 slices of toasted tomato & cheese, with a banana smoothy (half banana, small yogurt & skim milk)

Evening meals are usually soupy stew (lots of vegs & chicken/tuna whatever). Sometimes I add rice.

All good stuff.

Lunches & late afternoon snacks away from home are the problem. At home lunch is normally a big salad with chicken/sliced meat/tuna/vegetarian & 1 wrap/flat bread. Plus a piece of fruit.

If I eat out at lunchtime my favourite (& most nutritious) takeaway is sushi, but I also love deep fried yummyness. (I'm sure it's a food group! - not!!)

My bestest favourite is Asian food with noodles & sometimes a piece of something deep fried. Not the best lunch.

If I'm out I sometimes get a fruit & nut bum from a bakery chain - it uses a bread batter, not a sweet batter, & adds fruit & nuts inside & on top. Yummy & tasty, but not necessary.

Altho I like savoury & fried stuff I don't head for deep fried stuff, & I don't like sugar filled stuff (cakes/choccies etc.)

I also nibble/snack on fruit.

Most of what I eat is good food, but some servings are too big & I really don't need snacky stuff, especially as I don't do a lot of exercise.

I went to the pool soon after I woke this morning as my legs & hamstrings were very painful (brekkie was a fruit & nut bun on the bus going home!) When it's school holidays I don't go near the pool during the day as it's hard to exercise surrounded by kids having fun, but there weren't too many at 8.30, so I was able to move about relatively un-hindered & felt a bit better by the time I got home. Fortunately my physio has a spare appointment this evening.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Pistachio
Date: 10 Jan 08 - 08:22 AM

I like teamwork! Hope this 'virtual team' can achieve great losses. Excellent thread.
My twin and I hope to shed some poundage before our double half century at Easter. I'm good at saying what I intend to do (weightwise)but not as good at sticking to it. Still, with this 'support' I'm going to try harder.
I like the ribbon measure idea and the positive thoughts.
I'm currently reading an interesting book called Potatoes not Prozac "a natural seven-step dietary plan to control depression, food cravings and weight gain" by Kathleen DesMaisons PhD, which reasons why some individuals 'can't stop eating' due to receptors causing cravings, and "how certain food-dependent chemicals in the brain regulate our moods".   Too much to explain here but if interested the ISBN is 0-684-85149-0 and barcode 9 780684 851495
I don't consider myself depressed but believe my sister is deeply unhappy about how she finds food irresistable!
Keep up the good work.
Hazel.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,a slight flight from the fight!
Date: 10 Jan 08 - 09:54 AM

With humble apologies to the author:

'Twas the week after Christmas and all through the house,
nothing would fit me, not even a blouse.
The cookies (I nibbled!!), the eggnog (what taste!!!),
at the holiday parties had gone to my waist.
When I got on the scales there arose such a number!
So I walked to the store (less a walk than a lumber).
I remembered the marvelous meals I'd prepared.
The gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared,
the wine and the rum balls, the bread and the cheese,
the way I didn't say "No, thank you, please."
As I dressed myself up in my husband's old shirt,
and prepared once again to do battle with dirt
I said to myself (as I only can)
"You can't spend a winter disguised as a man!!"
So away with the last of the sour cream dip,
get rid of the fruitcake, every cracker and chip!
Every last bit of food that I like must be banished
'til all the additional ounces have vanished.
I won't have a cookie not even a lick.
I only will chew on a celery stick.
I won't have hot biscuits or corn bread or pie.
I'll munch on a carrot and quietly cry
"I'm hungry, I'm lonesome and life is a bore
but isn't that what January's for?"
I'm unable to giggle or laugh like a riot.
Happy New Year to all and to all a good diet!!!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: JeZeBeL
Date: 10 Jan 08 - 12:53 PM

Good luck to everyone who's trying to loose weight....

I'm on with it at the moment.

I'm lucky though as I have the help of my doctor and a personal trainer who kills me several nights a week at the gym.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,pattyClink
Date: 11 Jan 08 - 09:31 AM

Sixteen days in, feel lighter, feel better. Dropped 6 pounds in the first few days. Then NOTHING!

I know there are plateaus, I know they end, but oh it is tough to not see any progress.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: maeve
Date: 11 Jan 08 - 10:04 AM

pattyClink, you said,"Sixteen days in, feel lighter, feel better. Dropped 6 pounds..."

It sounds like progress to me! Patience with yourself, eh?

maeve, sending encouragement to all!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 11 Jan 08 - 10:13 AM

Patty, what is your routine? Something needs to be tweeked if you've plateaued this early. Maybe we can make some suggestions?

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 11 Jan 08 - 11:48 AM

I managed to lose about 12 pounds since Christmas due to the bug that just wont go away. Not the best way to start but it has given me the incentive to try for more. I need to lose about another 30 pounds - no real date as a target though.

Last night I started doing the stretching exercises that I used to do and, once I have more energy, intend getting some use out of the exercise bike we just bought, mainly for Kendall, and to progress onto the Bowflex again. Getting back to walking the dog on a regular basis - something that I haven't been able to do since I got back - will help too.

Now, if I could lose the bug but keep the reduced appetite that came with it...............

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,pattyClink
Date: 11 Jan 08 - 04:08 PM

Thanks for the moral support, Maeve, Becca.
I am just working at staying low-carb, and getting about 30 minutes of exercise most days. It may be that I just need to step up the exercise at this point.

Food intake runs like this.
Breakfast: 2-3 oz breakfast meat & 1 slice bread (7-grams of carb type)
Lunch: a wrap made with ham or turkey, cheese, romaine, low-carb tortilla. Carrot & celery sticks. A dozen nuts of some kind
Afternoon snack: 100 cal worth of string cheese, a few more nuts
Dinner: green salad, low-carb veg like green beans, some kind of meat 3-4 oz.
Evening snack: a low-sugar yogurt
and lots of water, 2 cups coffee with milk, and a few diet sodas.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 11 Jan 08 - 04:34 PM

Looks pretty good, Patty, except that there is no fruit on your list. My nutritionist also recommends 16oz of milk a day (if you can) and no soda, diet or otherwise (it actually dehydrates you). Other than that it should work. Maybe bump up the exercise and see what happens?

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 11 Jan 08 - 05:00 PM

This may sound silly, but it just occurred to me. Maybe you're not getting enough calories in that meal plan....that would make your body go into "storage" mode with whatever you do get.

I actually eat more and also more frequently now than I did before I started this. I'm counting carbs and it was recommended that I have 3 meals a day with 45-60g of carbs plus 2 snacks that are around 15g of carbs. I work an odd schedule so I have to work around that but I was told to eat about every 3-4 hours to keep blood sugar levels steady, too.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 11 Jan 08 - 05:04 PM

For anyone who has high blood pressure or just a feeling of being bloated/swollen ankles as the day goes on, it is a good idea to really watch the sodium count. (There's a lot more in ordinary things, more than most folks realise.) My docs recommend I do no more than 1000 mg per day which isn't much, so I *spend* those mgs very carefully. Unfortunately that means I don't get to eat as much cheese as I would like. On the other hand, it's probably better for me because it forces me to eat less processed food, in fact I have hardly any because of it, which is good or so they tell me.:-)

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,pattyClink
Date: 12 Jan 08 - 02:40 PM

Thanks Becca. I'm trying to keep carbs under 30 a day. We tried the balanced approach this past summer/fall with the 3-4 carb exchanges a meal, and it just wasn't working for my diabetic spouse and it seemed to feed my carb 'addiction'.

I will work in some milk as you suggest (apparently the lactose isn't evil as carbs go) and cut back on the sodas. (But if I have to do without them with all this other deprivation, I WILL 'go postal'!) And I'll go a few nights skipping the evening snack and get those calories earlier in the day, maybe that'll help be be 'running on empty' overnight and draw down some fat cells. And, you are right about fruit--just got some strawberries on sale, apparently only the berry family passes muster for low-carb.

Hang in there everybody, whatever your plan!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 12 Jan 08 - 02:55 PM

I think under 30g of carbs a day is too few. I think you're going to hurt your efforts in the long run because that will up your craving for "bad" carbs later in the day. You just need to eat the right carbs...fresh fruit, milk, whole grains, yogurt and starchy veg (potato, carrots, peas, corn) in the proper portions will do you good. I can send you more info via PM about my plan, as it is directed towards a "diabetic diet" but is actually what is recommended for everyone...though your partner may have to make some adjustments. What works for you won't necessarily work for him/her so the exact same plan is probably not a good idea. Are you each on the same plan listed above? How is it working for him/her?

I can totally relate to the diet soda syndrome. That was a hard one for me, too. But I went from several a day down to 1 or 2 a week so it is possible. I gave up my multiple cups of coffee a day at the same time so I was a cranky camper for awhile. I did this to relieve symptoms of GERD and now that I'm not eating the same amount of processed "white flour" and sugar foods I find I can have more coffee and not get the reflux. Still have to be careful, though.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,pattyClink
Date: 12 Jan 08 - 07:13 PM

Thanks. I do realize it's "too few" normally, but we're going to see this plan through. Trying to give the fat cells a signal to 'let go' and let some lipolysis happen, and according to the studies the only way known to do that is to really restrict carbs. When the ready carb fuel is not there, then the body reaches into the fat cells for backup fuel. Dr. Bernstein is one of the references on this, he's been surviving diabetes in good shape for many years and this is what he recommends. I realize not everybody buys this theory but I've become convinced of the science, and we've tried the other ways, and this makes more sense for our situation.

So, as far as how we're doing, well, it has really gotten his blood sugar down (like 120 points) and he is beginning to be able to trim some of the insulin doses back. I feel fine, and seem to have less cravings when I just avoid the carbs as much as possible (kind of like alcohol I guess, better to stay out of the bar!).

But we're not crazy. Once we get the weight off, we'll switch over to something more balanced for maintenance.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Marilyn
Date: 13 Jan 08 - 08:13 AM

Just reporting in.

One week into this and I think I've lost 2lbs (eyesight not too good so can't really see the scales properly - the joys of getting older!!) but it's at least 1lb so I'm happy.

Haven't been dieting too rigorously either but I have cut out bread completely and upped the vegetable and fruit intake. Seems to be working and I feel better too so must be a step in the right direction.

:)

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: LilyFestre
Date: 13 Jan 08 - 01:30 PM

While losing weight, I think is it incredibly important to have support. The folks that offer me support sometimes will lend me a shoulder to lean on or a (much needed) boot to the rear depending on the situation. They also celebrate with me. Today I have something to celebrate and it has gone out in a mass email to those who are sharing my little adventure. I'd like to share it here too! Here's what went out:

Hi Everybody!

    I am sending this email out to those of you who have been supportive of me in my weight loss adventure. I have a HUGE celebration today! Some time ago I cleaned out my closet. I packed up anything and everything that really didn't fit...I had 4 garbage bags full of clothes by the time I was finished. I closed each bag, wrote my name on an index card, the weight at which point I thought the clothes would fit and tied it all up with a pretty ribbon. It went into the storage building. As you ALL know, I have sagging clothes issues these days (oh, the woe of it all *GRIN*!). I decided I'd take those bags out of storage and see what I could fit into. Are you sitting down? Are you ready for this? In the "NEW" collection of clothes, I have 14 work shirts, 3 Play shirts, 4 jackets, 2 sweaters and a pair of pants!!! WOOO HOOOOO! Not only that, I found that many of the too small clothes I had packed away are now too big!!!! I packed them up and they will go to the yard sale this summer. That bag holds: 16 shirts, 2 sweaters and 2 pairs of pants!!!! I am PSYCHED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!   

I am hoping that you guys will share your celebrations too...after all, we're all working hard to meet personal goals and celebrating is part of the fun!!!

Michelle

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,pattyClink
Date: 13 Jan 08 - 09:30 PM

Congratulations Marilyn!

Lily, great story. That must have been a wonderful feeling.

This morning I found another 1.5 lb checked out. That felt great. Gives me more strength to stick with the program.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Celtaddict
Date: 13 Jan 08 - 10:53 PM

A few more thoughts along the 'one day at a time' line.
Rather than a sweeping diet change, which tends to be so 'strange' that as soon as we approach progress we stop it, a useful tool can be:

1. Choose a change you can make right now and continue indefinitely.

(Example: could I switch to only skim milk and fat-free yogurt? Sure. Could I keep it up forever? Sure. Could I eat a (or one more) raw vegetable today? Sure. Could I eat a (or one more) raw vegetable every day long term? Sure. BUT Could I not eat roast beef au jus today? Sure. Could I never eat it again? No way.)
Then choose another one.

2. Do anything, anything at all, that makes your heart speed up noticeably for half an hour a day.

(Walk the dog. Vacuum all your carpets, hard. Rake leaves. Dance to the stereo. Swim. Anything. Before long, it takes more vigorous exercise to make the heart speed up noticeably, so you either work harder or keep it up longer. If you have a question of heart disease, check with your doctor, but most people can tolerate a speed-up to about 120 without getting winded; virtually anyone can handle breaking 100 beats a minute. If you are very weak or out of shape, you will hit that speed-up goal with very gentle effort at first.)

My worst overeat time used to be right after work; get home hungry, thirsty, and tired, and have to be in the kitchen to get dinner on the table: danger time! I would sometimes gobble so much before supper I was not really hungry for supper, then eat anyway because I was embarrassed to admit how much I had already had! Really bad plan. What helps? Eating a high-protein snack (string cheese or fat free yogurt usually) and having a big glass of water before I leave the office (about half an hour away). Then by the time I get home, my appetite is no longer raging, and I can make smarter choices. Putting the kettle on and making a pot of tea, all sorts, herbal fruit concoctions mostly, and sipping those all day/evening is a help too.

I also have tried a number of 'replacement' foods, and some are good and some are dismal. However, I am thinking that having a 'replacement' food for the foods that tempt me most is not particularly helpful, because I can also overeat on that. (This is a problem that arose for many with 'fat free' cookies and such; because they were 'good' choices people felt they could eat more. Four cookies (biscuits across the Pond) at seventy calories is not an improvement over two at 140 each, or one 280-calorie sugar/fat bomb.) For some foods one really loves, it makes sense to work them into the diet. Plan to have, say, one scoop of really good ice cream on Tuesday, with no guilt. Do NOT have ice cream in the home. Eat at home a light meal of grilled fish and a big salad, then go out for one delicious scoop. Then do not worry about craving it during the week, because you are going to go out for another scoop next Tuesday.
For other foods, go with a substitute that is not as good. No problem. Low fat cheese is not the greatest, nor egg white omelets. But if I have them with, say, salsa or spinach and herbs, they are not bad, and I am not tempted to eat too much of them, nor do I miss the egg dishes because I have an 'okay' (not great) egg dish once or twice a week. I am using an imitation cream cheese which sounds gruesome but is okay; not great, but okay, but this works out instead of butter on my multigrain toast because if I were using really good rich cream cheese, or butter, I would be more tempted to put too much on. I think choosing which things are worth the 'splurge' and planning around them, and which things one can 'fake' and not miss so much, could help. My current favorite for chocolate craving is a big glass of skim milk with a good slug of chocolate syrup (which a lot of people do not realize is fat-free, and a much better choice than those powder mixes that are way too much sugar and not as much chocolate taste); not a bad health choice, fat free and lots of calcium, very filling, and definitely a good slug of chocolateness. If my friend really n-e-e-d-s a chocolate candy fix, she uses Tootsie Roll Midgets; they have to be unwrapped one by one (lots of visual reminders of how much you have had!) and must be chewed quite a while, so there is lots of time of having that chocolate flavor in the mouth.

I know I have spent a long time realizing that enough, is, in fact, enough.
A patient told me something great one time. She said, "One bonbon is good. Two bonbons are not twice as good." It is so easy to think, this is so good I want more, and not notice, the later bites are not nearly as satisfying!

Peg Bracken, who wrote "The I Hate To Cook Book," says the neatest diet she ever heard was given to a friend of hers by a doctor. It was, 'No meat, no wheat.' That's it.
I also saw what looked like sound advice on a book cover. It said, "Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants."

Celtaddict, 13 down and lots to go.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 14 Jan 08 - 02:28 AM

Marilyn - a magnifying glass or sheet put over the dial of your scales might help you can see the numbers clearly.

Scales - just weigh on one set at the same time each week. Weight fluctuates over the day & different scales are different!

My previous doctor who diagnosed me as pre-diabetic & sent me to the nutritionist told him my weight was 102 kg! Her (cheap bathroom) scales were way out as his (expensive professional Tanita) scales which also measured fat & water percentages, said 89kg.

Subsequently, anytime I stepped on her scales I just ignored the reading & didn't freak out.

I now have a set of the Tanita personal scales & the numbers are very easy to read.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Marilyn
Date: 14 Jan 08 - 08:17 AM

Thanks, Sandra. I just use the one set of scales in my bathroom so, although I can't guarantee that they're accurate, at least, if they show LESS this week than last, I know I've had some success. Hadn't thought of putting a magnifying glass over the scale - will try it next week (or put my specs on as, irritatingly, I hadn't thought of doing that!).

Thanks, Patty - congratulations to you too!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 14 Jan 08 - 10:02 AM

Celtaddict, great suggestions and some of them things I've been doing, esp. the substituting and the small ways to include chocolate, etc.

Susan Weed says, in "Menopausal Years - the Wise Woman Way, to cut out meat and all white foods, i.e. white bread, white rice, etc.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 14 Jan 08 - 10:27 AM

I would find it very difficult to cut out all meat although I have been moving over to smaller portions. The white stuff is just about gone - mostly because I have intolerances to them or that, as carbs, they play hell with my digestive system.

Celtaddict - loved a lot of what you say and will try to use some of the suggestions.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 14 Jan 08 - 02:10 PM

This came in an email from another Mudcatter....**BG**:

THE FINAL WORD ON NUTRITION
After an exhaustive review of the research literature, here's the
final word on nutrition and health.

1. Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than us.

2. Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than us.

3. Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than us.

4. Italians drink excessive amounts of red wine and suffer fewer heart
attacks than us.

5. Germans drink beer and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer
fewer heart attacks than us.

CONCLUSION: Eat and drink what you like. Speaking English is apparently
what kills you.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 22 Jan 08 - 01:46 AM

I saw my dietician today & am about half a kilo heavier than I was 6 weeks ago.

He's pleased with my progress, especially as I went to a Festival on the weekend & altho I put on a kilo over the weekend, my weight has not fluctuated much week to week since I last saw him. I also stayed the same weight between Christmas & New Year, but as I don't eat most of the stuff folks eat over Christmas that is not unexpected.

He's suggested I look at The National Weight Control Registry for info & inspiration.

The National Weight Control Registry
Brown Medical School/The Miriam Hospital
Weight Control & Diabetes Research Center
196 Richmond Street, Providence, RI 02903
Phone: [phone]-NWCR (6927)
E-Mail: [e-mail]

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Celtaddict
Date: 24 Jan 08 - 08:59 PM

Okay, upgrades, anyone? I just saw my doc and got 'a gold star' she said for cholesterol down, blood sugar down, A1C that indicates blood sugar over several weeks' time WAY down. Nowhere near my goal weight yet, but it is important to remember, just making the changes you need to start losing weight makes you healthier!
If I knew how to put that last in big red letters I would. . .

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 25 Jan 08 - 01:10 AM

congratulations on your better health, keep up the good work!

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: JennieG
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 12:46 AM

Well done!

I haven't done much walking lately; life has gotten in the way, as it does from time to time. We'll see about this evening.

One problem that women of my age is up against is the weight that appears with the passing of the years. (I'm a poet.....!) Unfortunately during/after menopause nature has designed some of us to become heavier and lumpier around the middle, and that is very hard to shift. One apparently has to go on a very very strict calorie-controlled diet (all I can think of here is deprivation) and huge amounts of very active exercise (yuk). When I look at photos of my mother at my age I can see where my build comes from.

Then she became a much slimmer person when she was a little old lady, so perhaps there is hope for me yet.

Cheers
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,pattyClink
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 09:08 PM

Congratulations, celtaddict!

We are sticking with the program but it is getting a bit old at this point.   Himself's blood sugars are way down to normalish but the A1C hasn't had time to decline yet, so no great encouragement there yet. His weight won't budge, I think it's because of the drugs he's on, he is going to ask for a prescription for Byetta. Mine has plateau'd for a while but I expected that.

I do get a bit tired of watching the numbers on everything, racking my brains for ideas on stuff to cook or pack in lunches.   But there is nothing to do but stick with the plan! And a sunny day would help too!!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Suegorgeous
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 09:16 PM

If your main problem on diets is feeling hungry, a fantastic one is Carol Vorderman's Detox For Life book. You can eat whenever you feel hungry....but you DO have to give up quite a lot of things (dairy, meat, fish, sugar, salt, wheat, alcohol, coffee). If you can grit your teeth and do this, the first week can be a challenge, but after that it's plain sailing. I couldn't believe how easy it was, once I got past the headaches and tiredness part, then I had so much energy, I felt well, my skin and eyes looked amazing, etc.

You do it for a month, and then continue if you want, on a less stringent version of the diet. In that month I lost a stone, felt fantastic - and was never hungry! I'm about to go back on it, and this time, I'm going to stay on it with some modifications.

Sue

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 11:14 PM

Thanks for the info, Suegorgeous.

Congrats, Celtaddict.

Thanks for the link, Sandra.

Hang in there everyone. I found one way to motivate myself to get on the treadmill. I won't allow myself to post on Mudcat until I've done my exercise and can post it to the accountability thread. At least that worked, today.

Like Jennie, says, life sometimes get in the way and I will not deprive myself when that happens, but for each day I will take it anew.

I have not lost anything, yet, partly because I have not been careful enough with what I eat and partly because I've missed some exercise and am not quite up to doing enough per day. I am still on oxygen and leftover crap from the pneumonia, but Rog and I have both noticed my breathing is much better when I do exercise, so it's just a matter of remembering how to breath properly. The docs have all said my lungs sound good! And, Spring is almost here in the Banana Belt of Colorado. Yippee!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 03:23 PM

Scratch that!**hiss-hiss-mrreow!** stupid idea, earlier. Mudcat IS a motivation so I had it in reverse. Check Mudcat, first, get motivated, do exercise, come back and post about it, duh!:-)

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: wysiwyg
Date: 03 Feb 08 - 12:28 PM

To no one in particular--

I stayed out of this thread for a long time because I don't find it useful to think of this process as "fighting" anything. That gives too much power to the negative. Even fighting "for" something is less powerful, IMO and in my experience, than focusing on the more positive aspects. "Working for," "moving toward," "letting in"-- all those are powerful phrases that can lead positively to the goals we want for our lives.

Also, focusing on "fat" is not useful for me.

More useful to me is focusing on health and strength, which can take so many forms and which are so very achievable within what is normal for each of us.

It may not be simple, it may not be easy, but it IS achievable and for me, achieving it has meant letting go of all of the stereotypes, the fad hypes, the diets, the CNN latest "breaking news," etc.

Here's what I mean:

If the normal, healthy person eats a normal, heatlhy diet, and gets normal, healthy exercise, they will not struggle with cravings, they will not buy and eat things that are bad for them, and they will not sit on the couch.

And if they do "those things" and still have those issues, then there is something they need to look at, learn about, do some problem-solving about, and take some action about.

If they do that problem-solving, with any really well-informed advisor working for them, they will find the precise things they need to change in their life, they will want to change those things, and they WILL change them.

It may be medical, or spiritual, or practical, or emotional, or whatever-- usually it's a combination-- but each of us is capable of identifying the most important change/goal to work on, revise that as needed, and move forward. And that's the whole thing.

Chocolate, fried food, sugar, TV, the clock, the schedule (just a few examples) have very little power unless we give it to them. One way to take away their power in our lives is to look away from them and look toward something GOOD, instead. Me, I don't particularly have a "food" problem. My "issues" that have needed adjustment are almost all on the activity-level side, and almost all of those were sparked by poor medical care that left me virtually chairbound.

Sure, I could put my energy into a malpractice battle. Or I could "blame" my situation on that, and stay stuck in it.

Or-- if I stay focused on my own ability to take charge of my health and strength, that is very easy to solve. And it turns out that every time I do that-- in a small way or a big one-- the "expert information" on that topic confirms every small or big thing I learned by doing it a step at a time, listening to my mind and my body and my spirit.

When I allow myself to be distracted from that by others' negativity, or even by their trying-to-be-positive, best-intended "advice" that I have learned are just wrong for me, I lose ground.

It's really, really, really as simple as that.

Best of results to you all,

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: wysiwyg
Date: 05 Feb 08 - 09:34 AM

Came across this today, LOL. It also could be titled, "How to Look 20 Pounds Lighter When You Look Like You Feel Good About Yourself." There is also actually a TV show about looking good naked, no matter what your body type or size. But keep the following article in mind whenever viewing Jenny Craig, Curves, or Alli ads.

~S~

=====

The Before and After Fitness Photo Scam
by: randalls_ebooks( 1483)
http://reviews.ebay.com/The-Before-and-After-Fitness-Photo-Scam_W0QQugidZ10000000002574563

I'm going to take a few minutes to write about one of my favourite marketing tactics ever used; The Before and After Fitness Photos. I'm going to explain to you how you can make your very own before and after photos, and also hopefully open your eyes to the fine print on the bottom of every fitness ads page.

How to Make your Very Own Before and After Photos:

"BEFORE"

8am Warm up Phase:

Step 1: Wake up and eat, continue to eat all day
Step 2: Drink as much water as you can possibly stomach
Step 3: Avoid all forms of exercise
Step 4: Do Not Shower or Shave

10pm Picture Time:

Step 1: Look unhappy/borderline suicidal
Step 2: Remove Shirt
Step 3: Have Camera Ready from side view, step slightly forward with left foot and turn slightly
Step 4: Slouch and Roll Shoulders Forward
Step 5: Push Gut out as far as possible
Step 6: Relax every muscle
Step 7: Take Picture

Wow… that might be the worst picture ever taken. Tomorrow is a big day, you're going to lose 20lbs, GUARANTEED.


"AFTER"

8am Warm-up Phase:

Step 1: Wake up, don't eat, or drink anything
Step 2: Do 20-30 minutes of light/medium cardio
Step 3: Shower and Shave
Step 4: Dry off and evenly apply self-tanner
Step 5: Do some pushups, pull-ups, sit-ups, and curls

9am Picture Time:

Step 1: Put a smile on, this is your big day
Step 2: Remove Shirt
Step 3: Have Camera Ready at same position, but turn so that you're almost facing the camera completely
Step 4: Stand up straight, shoulders back, chin up
Step 5: Tighten those abs and tuck in that gut
Step 6: Have the same basic pose as your before photo, but flex all the muscles in your upper body
Step 7: Take Picture

Develop your photographs and take a look at how different you look, keep in mind that these results happened over a 10-hour time period. This type of photograph is found on many of the fat-burners/muscle building supplements on the market today.

Some of these before and after photos are real, but the people in them spent 6-8 weeks in the gym with personal trainers and dieticians doing nothing but working out.

This article isn't meant to bash supplements, I've used fat-burners in the past and still use protein powder, it's just meant to open your eyes to the tactics used to get you to spend more money than you need to.

A proper diet and a basic exercise routine will have you seeing results in no time, you don't need to spend $500 a month on supplements to see results. You just need some motivation and some good old-fashioned know-how.

=====

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,pattyClink
Date: 05 Feb 08 - 11:45 AM

Well, I reached the 10-pound milestone of weight lost since Christmas. 15 pounds off my top weight. Feels Good!!!!

Thanks to all you Cats who posted encouraging words and ideas.   (And a big raspberry to the jokers and patronizers.)

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 05 Feb 08 - 12:43 PM

Good for you Patty!

I've found this thread so encouraging and, to me, the title says it all. Easy to find and understand what it's about.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 05 Feb 08 - 12:55 PM

That's great, Patty!

I posted this in the accountability thread, where I will delete it, so will include it here:

This past weekend, my Rog noticed a big bruise on my side. I didn't have any pain from it and didn't even know it was there until he pointed it out. I think it came about when I pushed through our wooden gate and it hung up on the swollen concrete. Anyway, it was a sure sign my coumadin levels might be too high, even though they were fine last week.

I called the clinic and had my blood tested, yesterday. Sure enough it was at 3.8 when it should be under 3.0, so it was a bit alarming. Conventional wisdom says the more you exercise, the more coumadin you have to take. well, I am just the opposite. We've had this happen once before. I exercise on a regular basis, the coumadin has to be reduced or I could wind up bleeding out in certain situations.

SO, thanks to your encouragement, etc. my semi-regular treadmill walks, etc. have resulted in my having to take less of the rat poison and I am delighted!

Thanks!

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: wriggles
Date: 15 Feb 08 - 07:32 AM

Worst thing you can do when trying to lose weight is deprive yourself of all the things you really love. Moderation really is the key. Move more - even if its not planned exercise. Make sure you dont skip breakfast and dont EVER diet. A diet is something you go on and then come off. If you want to lose weight and keep it off, eat healthily and look upon it as a change of lifestyle which is why its important not to completely cut out your favourite foods - because you can only do that for so long. Good luck everyone.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: GUEST,pattyClink
Date: 15 Feb 08 - 09:04 PM

Thanks jacqui and I hope it is going well where you are.

Kat, my big guy is on Warfarin also, it drives me a little nuts trying to even out the cruciferous veggies to help keep that in line. These powerful drugs beat the hell out of heart attacks, however.   So-- if you exercise a lot, your blood gets thinner on you? Wonder if you are chugging a lot of water at those times, that would dilute/thin the blood a bit. ?

Come on Spring, come on Farmer's Market, come help us get through this battle, we're getting tired of carrots and California lettuce!!!

That said, here's a winter twist on Chef's Salad that helps a mite with the salad boredom factor. Necessity forced me to "invent" it though probably I'm the last person in the world to figure it out.

Italian Chef's Salad (my apologies to real Italians)
Over a bed of Mixed lettuce (Romaine and some iceberg or leaf lettuce, whatever.)
Slivered bell pepper
Slivered red onion
Grated carrot
Julienned ham & provolone or other white cheese
Chopped pepperoni slices (first saute til hot in a small pan, blot, cool)
Chopped yellow peppers (pepperoncini?) bottled or fresh if you got 'em
Sprinkling of sunflower seeds (or croutons if you're a Carb person)
Sprinkling of red pepper flakes unless you're a sissy

Dress with olive oil infused with garlic & vinegar, or a bottled Creamy Italian, or whatever.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: wysiwyg
Date: 18 Feb 08 - 10:08 AM

I know that Oprah and others say NO EATING AFTER EARLY EVENING, but this is another "fight mentality" mistake aimed at food addiction, not at health.

Thank goodness, long-known sports nutrition wisdom is in direct opposition to some of the current diet-fad "wisdom." One example is bedtime snacks.

It's been proven that a small (SMALL) snack at bedtime, if one has an active life, promotes more efficient recovery from the athletic activity of choice as well as better sleep. A fruit, a carb, and a protein (preferably dairy) do the job. These are not extra calories, but calories already included in the day's target allotment.


A delicious, nutritious, and satisfying bedtime snack is a quarter-cup of sugar-free instant pudding made with skim milk (with less milk than the package recommends), with a tablespoon or two of cereal stirred into it and with a very small amount of fruit or jam on top. Yogurt would certainly be an alternative, but this is cheaper and there are many flavors a "diet" would ordinarily not permit. Made with dried skim milk, it's quite portable for travel as well. Water and ice for a great shake, in a thinner mix, yum! I carry an empty peanut-butter jar for the purpose, in my travel kit. Or-- made with iced coffee, it's also an energy drink!

I'm going to have cheesecake-flavored oatmeal and a little fresh mango for brekky, today. Butterscotch or chocolate tonight at bedtime, with fresh banana. Using a baby-cereal spoon, it will take so long to eat it that it will seem like quite a bit of snack.

"Eat to live"-- that's my motto.

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 18 Feb 08 - 10:23 AM

So-- if you exercise a lot, your blood gets thinner on you? Wonder if you are chugging a lot of water at those times, that would dilute/thin the blood a bit. ?

I don't think it's the water, because that is all I drink and I don't consume any more when exercising than normal, since I am always chugging it.:-) What my doc and I decided is my body is processing it more efficiently when I am more active. We saw dramatic evidence of this last Fall when I was basically in bed for about four weeks with a hurt foot, then pneumonia. We couldn't get enough coumadin in me then. The conventional wisdom on coumadin says if you get more active you will need more of it; so you can imagine how they scratch their heads over my needing less!:-)

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: LilyFestre
Date: 18 Feb 08 - 03:20 PM

We almost always have dinner sometime after 8:30pm as that is what our schedule dictates....doesn't seem to hinder our weight loss efforts at all...or how we sleep. :)

Michelle

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: Leadfingers
Date: 18 Feb 08 - 03:54 PM

The last time I went on a diet , i had to go on two at the same time , as one didnt feed me up properly

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: wriggles
Date: 25 Feb 08 - 04:56 AM

Terry - I completely understand.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: momnopp
Date: 25 Feb 08 - 05:08 PM

OK - can't take the time to read the whole of this thread right now (it's why I don't check in here more often; I always get sucked into the vortex, as lovely as it is...)

Anyway, just want to share my keys to success in losing about 22 pounds since I started in Aug. 07 (about 6 months).

1) I started from a perspective of improved health (not weight loss). My cholesterol levels were out of control and my doc was threatening me with medication. I also had it clear in my mind that the whole point is that improved health is a gift I am giving myself.

2) I 'did' a cleansing program that helped me to break the habit of caffeine and refined sugar. It's one of these moderately high-priced programs which I don't care to promote by name on this thread, but if you're curious, PM me.

3) I frame the whole thing as 'releasing' the weight. I have not 'lost' it - I don't ever intend to see it again!!!!!! As noted by Katlaughing (I believe) our words mean everything to us.

4) I participated in a 'biggest losers contest' at the school where I work part-time. We weighed in once a week with the school nurse who then published the percent of weight each person had lost that week (gains were not noted). At the end of the contest, I was tickled to learn that I had come in third place, having lost about 8% of my starting weight. That serves as a continued motivator.

(Also, with the $100 I won, I went out and bought NEW CLOTHES and yes, I am donating my 'fat clothes' as incentive to keep heading in the right direction. Keeping them sends my subconscious the message that I intend to need them again.)

5) Having someone to be accountable to. Although the 'contest' is over, I go and 'weigh in' with the nurse (who is very encouraging and non-judgmental) once every 2 weeks. For me, knowing that someone else is 'watching' (and encouraging) helps me immensely to stay on track. I gave up the notion that she is telling me what to do or an adversary of some sort. I realized that for it to be helpful, I need to understand that this person is helping me to do something I want for me.

6) I focused on eradicating two things: trans fat and high fructose corn syrup. I believe this has been critical, because frankly, I don't know that I've necessarily reduced my calorie intake by much. I have become a (some might say rabid, some maniacal) label-reader and if it says 'partially-hydrogenated' anything, I put it down immediately. I learned that high fructose corn syrup is some seriously nasty crap and of course it's in EVERYTHING. So that's out as well.

7) I was never too thrilled with soda, but I do like bubbles sometimes. Flavored seltzer water is our household solution to this. Even just seltzer with a couple drops of lemon or lime juice works.

8) Remembering that everything counts. Everything that goes into my mouth matters. Each and every bite is a choice.

9) I got a little trampoline that fits in my living room and I lean it up against the wall when it's not in use. I can take a break from the computer, spend 5 minutes on the trampoline and feel refreshed. It gets my circulation going again and oxygen to my brain. Helps immensely with the afternoon doldrums. I am much more likely to do this (possibly even more than once a day) than take the 2 hours it requires for me to go to the gym (although I sometimes do that as well)

SHEEESH! I had no idea I had that much to say about this subject. I'm gonna get back to work now!

Peace and LIGHTNESS,

JudyO / momnopp

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: katlaughing
Date: 25 Feb 08 - 07:15 PM

That's super, Judy! Congrats and thanks for posting your info. It's a good reminder for me to watch what I think and say. I've had a couple of cruddy weeks, wrong focus, etc. I am back on track, today, but it's good to be reminded of various things you listed.

Subject: RE: BS: Fighting Fat 2008
From: wysiwyg
Date: 25 Feb 08 - 07:37 PM

I've had to put my wedding ring on a chain. I suspected I was shrinking when it repeatedly fell off my left hand. Now I'm sure-- it's falling off the right. I'll know I really shrank when it will fit on my right bird finger. :~)

~S~