I REALLY need to lose weight

[iluvdiznee]

I have been "trying" to lose weight for two years. I start a healthy program, usually Weight Watchers, do it for a week then quit. I have succeeded in gaining 20 more lbs!

What was the deciding factor in anyones successes? I am tired of starting and quiting, but I know myself too. I am not very good at completing a goal.
I also have Lupus and RA. Fatigue is a major factor in my life and that is one of the big obstacles keeping me from even going on a daily walk! I am so drained by the end of my full time job and home life as well.

I know this sounds like a big whining session, maybe it is, But I have GOT to get a grip on myself! I need big time inspiration, accountability, hope, etc...
Thanks all.

 

[chrismiss56]

Hi

I understand where you are in your life. Have been there more times than I can tell you..........

But now I think I am finally headed down the right path even though I still take detours.

The most important thing for me was not to make too many changes at once. I made one change at a time (exercise or eating) and then after I totally felt comfortable with the change did I move on to the next change. Listen to your body it will tell you when it is time to move to the next change.

Keep positive and visit this board on a regular basis. They are the best lifeline I know

Have a magical Disney Day!!

 

[Wish I lived in Fl]

Same problem here- Overwhelming fatigue. Hardly even take the dog for a walk around the block(1/2 mile). Signed up for half marathon at WDW next January because walking used to be my strong spot.Still don't get much exercise.

I am trying multivitamins and will try a Hypoglycemia treatment diet when i get back from my WDW trip next week.

Just read a thread where poster says in deciding on food,"Do i want the pound loss or the food more?" So will also try talking to my food!

Off to walk to Dunkin Donuts for my skim decaf latte. This is what works for my sister. She walks to DD for her treat and walks home.4 miles RT for her.

 

[Barb D]

60 pounds down, 40ish to go. Why is it working this time?

1. My doctor told me to make losing weight my #1 priority in life. I hear her voice in my head. The house is a wreck, but I exercise. Right now, losing weight is more important than a clean house. WW costs money, but I go. Right now, losing weight is more important than frugality.

2. I changed my attitude from "I can do this" to "I AM DOING THIS." It is a present thing, not a potential thing.

3. I realized that if the goal is a certain weight, it is a long way off. If the goal is a healthy lifestyle, I'm there. I am LIVING the goal, by eating right, exercising, and drinking water.

4. It finally dawned on me that whether I am a strong person or not was not predetermined for me. It is up to ME to MAKE myself a strong person.

5. I included my family. My older kids are now WW lifetime members. My little one is growing up with better eating habits. I've become more assertive with DH about what foods can and cannot come in the house, and that I HAVE to take the time to exercise.

 

[iluvdiznee]

THank you all for your posts. I am usually on the parks board but I need to refocus what's important right now. Don't get me wrong! I have to have my daily Disney fix. Now that I have discovered this area of the DISboards, I can have the best of both worlds!

I will check back daily for inspiration and ideas. Thanks!

 

[eeyore45]

I should've made a post yesterday! I could've said what you said (different health issues, but still...)

I was too afraid to start a new thread, I always join in and while I try and post, many times, I end up tearing up, and not posting. I too have started and failed so many times, it scares me. I cant bear to fail again, and so I have now gained that extra 20#'s and now I've hit the 200# mark, I'm so embarrassed its not funny!

Friday I watched Oprah and I hope to hear her voice in my head... "you are worthy" She was listening to a guest, and suddenly Oprah tells her you wont lose the weight when your inner voice keeps hearing you dont think you are a worthy perosn.. and I know Dr Phil has his 7 Keys to success and this is one of them, you see I know all the right things, to do and eat, but I keep failing me!

So I got my determined shirt on yesterday, got my dd8 to take me for a short walk around the park, and I joined the May exercise thread. I went to Target and bought the Core Secret Program (I've watched so many informercials, and tried so many of them... all failed!) I like the exercise ball, but dont know what exercises to do, so I spent the $40 bucks and bought the 3 CD's with the ball, and 2 5# weights...

2 days, so far I'm still struggling (and I've been in the bathroom more times than I care to count!)

I've resurrected my pedometer.... and I'm trying to find a playlist of songs to motivate me, I'll ask my DS's (19,17) to buy me some download time and download to an Mp3 player for Mother's Day...

I will try and stay positive...

 

[Hockeychic]

Wow, I have a lump in my thought as I read your post. I have started a stopped a diet or new way of life every other day and never follow through with it. I have taken a few things from every post and will incorporate them into my life starting right now. I really like the "I am doing it" not I can do this. I am lucky I have a very supportive hubby and everytime I say I am going on a diet...he says...OK lets go for a walk. My biggie is taking my lunch to work when McDonalds is right beside my office.....yikes.....

But maybe we can all do this together....help incourage each other and not let each other quit. What do you think????

 

[Barb D]

My biggie is taking my lunch to work when McDonalds is right beside my office.....yikes.....

Hockeychic, I take 5 Lean Cuisines and 5 non-fat light yogurts to work with me every Monday. That way I don't have to even REMEMBER to bring my lunch each morning. It's already there. I also keep 94% fat free mw popcorn in my desk (the snack size, or if I can find the snack size, I give or throw away have of the full size bag.)

 

[iluvdiznee]

I am going to check back on this thread. I am willing to be a support to anyone that I can ! Several of you have inspired me to TRY to at least walk. I know that exercise is key. Let's keep in touch!

 

[Hockeychic]

Hey everyone!!!!

Well day 1 today. I will be leaving my credit and debit cards at home so I am not tempted to go out for lunch. I like the idea of taking a weeks worth of lunch to work.

I will get in 2 walks today, 1 at lunch and 1 after work....I am still walking to disney so I have some catching up to do....lol

Have a great day.

 

[eeyore45]

Good Morning... Day 2.

What worked? I didnt cook!! *G I drank water, and I stayed online! When I got hungry I looked at the clock first... (I eat when I'm bored) So I found the old journal of what the point count/calorie-fat count... I tried some of those crystal lite bottle packets - I hear you can get them at Wal Mart! (I got 3 for $1 at a hospital 2 weeks ago, ds had a kidney stone - eesh!) The Crystal Lite was a nice 'sweet' change from all that water I'm determined to drink!

I went to Sam's club and bought a chunk of Turkey Breast, spicey w/ sundried tomatoes they had 3 choices) I know that I need protien, and less salt, so I tried to find some choices that I can "grab and go". I bought apples and carrots,, and tuna! (Why am I so opposed to fish? I know its healthy -but the taste is like stinky cardboard, I know its a mind problem I have to work on, until then,less beef more chicken and turkey!)

Breakfast - I bought some boca sausage (I need protein) and I have a recipe that is high in protien (egg whites) and low in carbs, but I havent made it... its great to make and freeze, then grab and microwave...

So once again the things that can sabotage me are reaching out, calling my name, but this first week is easy, its the 6th week that I give up on me!

Thanks for joining, for being willing to try and put up with me, I wonder if I shouldnt move my thoughts over to the journal page? I wouldnt want to clutter up, or bother anyone...

Off to sub in a 2nd grade class! (and I have no idea if or when I'll get potty breaks so I have to cut back on water until one hour before lunch!!)

 

[eeyore45]

Just thinking of you all before I head out - I may drop in and read some during a break later!

IF you can get to a Target, in the exercise aisle, they have weights, and yoga mats at our Target, but they also have a box for $39 its called Core Secrets, (I've watched that infomercial) it has 3 DVD of exercises, a HUGE ball, and a pump (OK, I cheeated I had DS fill the ball, he is exercising lately and wanted to try it!)

The exercises are a little of everything, but I'm thinking Tracy you may be able to do a few, for instance, sitting on it and bouncing... yep, that's all you do! He explains about the whole core center of our bodies, breathing, and abs, so I've been concentrating today on holding in my tummy muscles, and breathing... oh and for my chin flab/double chin, this exercise is "supposed" to help - tilt your head back, now open your mouth wide...now close and hold... do that for a count of 5, then put your head back in regular position, now tilt, open and hold... Like it???



Help me remember:
Nothing tastes as good as thin FEELS!!

 

[DznyDreams]

eeyore45 & Hockeychic - You're doing great!! Keep up the good work and you'll be there in no time.

eeyore45 - I love the quote you've mentioned, "Nothing tastes as good as being thin feels!" I also try to remember this daily....I even posted it on my fridge. Posting your plans, successes and struggles on this board is key, so keep it up!

iluvdiznee - Like you, I've been known for not sticking to plans in the past. I always hesitated to tell friends/family that I was dieting because I just "knew" they would think it was just a phase that would soon pass.... and they'd be RIGHT!

This time, I began just as you have . . . I posted on this board, and then I kept coming back. I still have in the neighborhood of 140 lbs to lose, but I try not to think about the final goal. I started small by simply thinking about ways to get healthy, and I mean REALLY THINKING. I made notes concerning meal ideas, shopping lists, and ways to incorporate exercise into my daily routine. Then I began setting mini goals for my weight loss. (This has worked really well for me, BTW!)

After the “story boarding” phase, I decided it was time to REALLY commit to an exercise regime that would work for me. I hate exercise. I loath it, to be TOTALLY honest. I knew that if I was going to stick with a plan, I had to commit BIG TIME. So….I joined Curves with a one-year contract. The circuit seems to agree with me since I don’t have time to get bored, and I bore so easily with most exercise. Anyway, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Sure, there are days when I literally have to drag myself there, but once I finish, I feel so much better for it. I still don’t have the energy level that I’d like to have, but I know it’s good for me and helping me in more ways than one. I have even added a daily walk to my routine now, which is a miracle within itself.

After joining and working out at Curves for one full week, I was then ready to commit to a healthy eating plan. I rejoined WW because it has always worked for me….I just never stuck with it. This time, I have the WISH board to help me out on the days when I feel a little BLAH, or when I’m so hungry that I could eat the house. I look forward to new weight loss clippies, and board challenges. I know deep in my heart there’s a long road ahead, but it’s very motivating to track my progress with my DISboards signature. I’ve made a hobby of it.

I also have RA, and my doctor tossed out the Lupus idea about 8 months ago. He says it’s possible since I have so of the symptoms and my blood work tends to back it up, but he won’t make an official diagnosis until we’ve ruled out other possibilities. So far, the only thing we’ve just recently ruled out is diabetes (thank goodness), but as of now I haven’t made my next appointment….I’m just not sure if I’m ready yet. Anyway, I totally understand where you are coming from.

Sorry for rambling on and on….

Good luck! You CAN do this!

 

[Southern4sure]

I have never been one to "diet" because I knew I wouldn't see it through and when I did try..I was hungry all the time and to be honest..diet food doesnt taste good.

So 1 1/2 yrs ago, I started the Atkins diet. I love it because I eat food I like I just dont eat breads, pastas, potaotes you know..any high carb food and I gave up caffiene! Talk about sluggish. It was hard the first two weeks but afterwards, I didnt crave these things.

I initially lost 65 lbs! I walked 2 miles a day 5 days a week. Well, my DH took a job in another state and left me to sell the house, pack up and still take care of our two kids....what happened..I fell off.

Now things are getting back to normal and I started my low carb diet again. I'm now in my 4th week of low carbing and I just joined the May Exercise Challenge...I signed up for 1500 minutes...what was I thinking???? Anyway, I have to motivate myself so I can fit back into the clothes I was so proud to wear.

I wish everyone good luck and I hope we all can reach our goals!

 

[iluvdiznee]

Wow! I have some great company! You all are just wonderful.
I can't say a whole lot about today other than I haven't given in to any cravings. I usually have a terrible sweet tooth in the evening and tonight is no exception. I chose to have some cantaloupe instead of cookies. I guess that's progress huh?

Dzny dreams: How long have you known you had RA? It took my Dr 3 years before he could confirm Lupus. If I indeed have it, I am LUCKY. I don't have organ involvement Thank God. At least not now!

If this thread should get too long or if we should move it, give a holler. I am still relatively new here so I am learning the rules.

 

[DznyDreams]

iluvdiznee - I've officially know about the RA for about a year now. (I'm only 37, but you wouldn't know it by my scans.) I do know that it is a very long, drawn out process to be diagnosed with Lupus, and although I am journaling, I am in NO HURRY to get to the official diagnosis. I'm just hoping & praying that most of my symptoms will just "disappear" with the weight I'm trying so desperately to lose. I truly hope that all of my Lupus-like symptoms are the result of the large amount of weight I'm carrying. My doctor does seem to think that this could be the case, but only time will tell.

 

[pixiedust23]

I guess I have a slightly different angle on this but the result is still the same. I am a long time (8 years) sufferer of anorexia (wow its very hard to see that in black and white). So when I gain weight my initial reaction is to just stop eating so for me its crucial to get to the gym and eat somewhat healthy. I guess it's kind of the same thing for you. You need to eat healthy or it's your life on the line. It's esp bad for you to be bearing extra weight with RA. Just tell yourself I deserve to live a long life and if i continue to act this weight I will be cutting my life short. You can always get one of those little bikes (you actually sit on your couch and put the pedals at your feet and jsut pedal while you watch tv) I think they also have a stepper like that. It will get your blood circulating with very little impact so it will be better for your joints. Good luck! Just know you have the strength to do it!

 

[eeyore45]

Good Morning All,

Thanks for sharing so much Diane, you are an inspiration! We sometimes dont realize how something we say (or post!) touches others!

My laptop just deleted my post.... (I never see it coming, my left hand hits a shift key, and boom everything is highlighted in blue and deletes immediately! ugg!)

Pixiedust - I tried to thank you for sharing your story, trying to relate how my mind is strong and powerful in my journey... that even though I intellectually know I need and what I need to eat, my mind convinces me that the food I like is ok for today... the "end" of life seems so far out there, intangible...

How are things today iluv? Southern? Hockeychic, where are you??

I drank my water yesterday, and didnt think I was going to make it that last 1/2 hour waiting for dismissal so I could RUN to the bathroom was agonizing! I have a dropped bladder, and have some difficulties...

I've never liked diet sodas, but I cant drink just plain water day in and day out for the rest of my life. I'm going to try and buy some Crystal Lite today, see what happens when I head to Sam's!!

So lets do it together!!

 

[Southern4sure]

Good Morning All,

Thanks for sharing so much Diane, you are an inspiration! We sometimes dont realize how something we say (or post!) touches others!

My laptop just deleted my post.... (I never see it coming, my left hand hits a shift key, and boom everything is highlighted in blue and deletes immediately! ugg!)

Pixiedust - I tried to thank you for sharing your story, trying to relate how my mind is strong and powerful in my journey... that even though I intellectually know I need and what I need to eat, my mind convinces me that the food I like is ok for today... the "end" of life seems so far out there, intangible...

How are things today iluv? Southern? Hockeychic, where are you??

I drank my water yesterday, and didnt think I was going to make it that last 1/2 hour waiting for dismissal so I could RUN to the bathroom was agonizing! I have a dropped bladder, and have some difficulties...

I've never liked diet sodas, but I cant drink just plain water day in and day out for the rest of my life. I'm going to try and buy some Crystal Lite today, see what happens when I head to Sam's!! So lets do it together!!

I just came back from walking my DS 9 to the bus stop...20 minutes round trip. I like to add those powder thingys to my bottled water. the wal mart brand is really good..$1.76 for 10. I like diet caffeine coke, but I also like diet rite. It is made with splenda and tastes really good. But it is alittle expensive $4.00 for a 12 pk. Im off to go ride my bike. I will touch base in a little bit.

PS I buy the pork rinds at Sams and much on them when I get hungry..I also use a little chip dip. Makes a great atkins snack!

 

[DznyDreams]

I guess I have a slightly different angle on this but the result is still the same. I am a long time (8 years) sufferer of anorexia (wow its very hard to see that in black and white). So when I gain weight my initial reaction is to just stop eating so for me its crucial to get to the gym and eat somewhat healthy. I guess it's kind of the same thing for you. You need to eat healthy or it's your life on the line. It's esp bad for you to be bearing extra weight with RA. Just tell yourself I deserve to live a long life and if i continue to act this weight I will be cutting my life short. You can always get one of those little bikes (you actually sit on your couch and put the pedals at your feet and jsut pedal while you watch tv) I think they also have a stepper like that. It will get your blood circulating with very little impact so it will be better for your joints. Good luck! Just know you have the strength to do it!

Thank you!!

The good news is that I have already "conquered" the exercise limitations by joining Curves & walking, and I already own a winning attitude by having stuck to my goals for 6+ weeks now!

Sure, the workout was a major struggle at first, but now it's a breeze most days. There are times when I can barely stand to crawl out of bed, but I always make time for exercise. I've learned that not trying actually results in more pain than trying. So up and at 'em I go! It's not always easy, but I really try to "ignore" the aches. On the days where the aches turn into pure and simple pain, I take it slower, but I still move & workout/walk. I'm not stopping until my doctor says, "You just can't do this anymore." (This is not something I believe is good for all folks with RA...I'm aware that the damage that CAN be caused by stess is irriversible, but for me personally, I'm doing "okay" for now.)

I've also learned that 90% of the struggle for me is mental, and I continue getting stronger and stronger in that area each day as well (thanks to WISH). The fact that "mental attitude" is SO key with me is exactly why I cling to the hope that most of my problems will simply "disappear" with the weight I WILL lose. I've lost 17 pounds in 6 weeks (not too shabby as far as I'm concerned), and I've established a new way of life that I will not give up on!