The Freecers Diet Thread

[PatrioticAmerican]

Some of us on this board are individually dieting. We've decided to do a 12 week dietathon. Nothing unreasonable, just sensible eating and exercising. Some of us will be posting our weekly weight results, as well as achievements / concerns.

Anyone who would like to participate and who would like to provide encouragement to each other is more than welcome.

I will be requesting that any comments by Trolls be deleted.

**turning on "eye of the Tiger**

Let's do this, folks! :yum: :noodles: :nono:

[UhUhNoWay]

Ok I'll join in .I'm 5'5.5 (That half inch makes a difference!) and as of this morning 203.6 (uggh the agony of being brave) My doctor's goal for me was 199 but since that is so close, and I am feeling ambitious now...my personal goal is 150lb. I don't have an actual 'diet plan' I'm adhering to. I just watch the carbs, plenty of proteins, plenty of non-starchy vegetables. And plenty of fluids (usually decaf un-sweetened iced tea) I'm leaving for vacation Saturday morning but I will have access. Hopefully a week with my neices won't be my ruination. LOL

[Large_Al]

Ok I'm In I'm 6'3... 239lbs I was 170 10 years ago before I quit smoking Id like to get to 210. Here we go!!

[Melz]

Okay I will join. I am so embarrassed to put my weight up here though. I will take a picture and post it soon (well I already posted a sitting down picture) and then after it's all over, I will have an "after picture" and maybe then I will announce my weight and how much I have lost. It isn't so horribly bad, but heck I haven't weighed myself in 6 months. I really have no idea.

I just need to exercise. I have no trouble at all controlling food intake, I have powers of persuasion to myself in that field. Exercising is another thing. I will work on that :)

[Teenager]

I'm 6'2. About 160 lbs. Hmmm, maybe I oughta gain 10 pounds of muscle. I should start working out. Easier said than done though.

[UhUhNoWay]

Teenager...I think that is equally difficult, some folks have a hard time keeping weight on and I imagine it can be just as difficult hearing people telling you you are too skinny as it is to hear you are too fat.
Melz, don't feel bad, I had to double dog dared myself to post my weight. It was really quite liberating. (Not trying to talk you into it, just 'splainin myself )
Dang Large Al if I were just as tall as you I'd be right on target! So, in essence, I am not really overweight, I am just under tall. LOL

[Warlady]

Teenager I'm going to smack you LOL j/k. I'm not going to announce my weight either. I've been thin most of my life but since my spine collapsed I can't exercize because of the pain. It's unbearable most of the time. My doc won't even allow me to ride our lawnmower or my horse. He won't allow me to ride a bicycle. He's barely allowing me to drive my car. I can walk short distances. Before we moved up here 7 years ago I was walking 12 miles a week. I have osteoporisis at a very young age and am just starting on a new drug that I have to inject every day. It's $635.00 a month for 24 months. Yikes. I'm willing to cut calories and carbs. I don't even eat that much. For example all I had today was a bologna sandwich and a bowl of won ton soup. I think when the weather gets cooler here in Texas I will try to start walking around our 6 acre pasture. What I need is motivation. It's very depressing to be in pain all of the time and it's also depressing to be debilitative/out of order. I'm a challenge. If anyone feels they can meet it be my guest. Right now I'm heading to the hot tub with my salty dog.

[UhUhNoWay]

WL, When I had chronic back problems, the easiest exercise was swimming..or at least treading water ...it took the pressure off my back. Does your doctor recommend any kind of water exercise?

[Melz]

WL that is some of my problem, the exercise and heat thing. I cannot just up and want to go walking or biking in 95 degree heat, and it has been that way for a while. I don't eat much either, food is so very controllable. If only that was all it took, I would be all skinny like Teenager!! :)

I will weigh myself this weekend and mayyyybe post it if this is a serious thing. If we are really doing this. If I weigh as much as I did 6 months ago, or less, I will possibly post it...possibly.

How does this work though, this diet thread thingie?

[PatrioticAmerican]

Okay. This is the single most humiliating thing I have EVER done in my life. But, I'm serious about this, and am willing to take what I dish out. Here I am in my glory (or, horry).

I am 41 y.o., 5'10" tall and weigh 210 lbs.

GOAL: 21 y.o, 6'3", 185 lbs (I'll settle for the weigh loss, if nothing else).

Problem areas (in red boxes): jaw fat, hunch fat, man boobs, belly, love handles, and gluteus maximus.

Muscle Building areas (in blue boxes): my shoulders, chest, arms, back, thighs, and calves.

Oh, the horror...

[Melz]

Are you teasing us? Link the pictures!! LOL. Or put them in the picture thread. I hide mine there. That way, it won't be so easy to find when I mess up this diet and then folks can start saying "hey Tubby, get to exercising!"

[Melz]

okay now I see the photos (darn slow loading computer thingie).

And also, here is the pasta diet which should work. If only it were this simple..lol


THE PASTA DIET - IT REALLY WORKS!
1) You walka pasta da bakery.

2) You walka pasta da candy store.

3) You walka pasta da Ice Cream shop.

4) You walka pasta da table and fridge.

CONCERNED ABOUT TOO MANY CARBS IN YOUR DIET?

For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on
nutrition
and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all conflicting
medical
studies.


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

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

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

than Americans.

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

5. The Germans drink a lot of beers and eat lots of sausages and fats
and
suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

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

what kills you

[PatrioticAmerican]

Okay, so where are your pics, Melz?

walka pasta da bakery... **shaking head** ya bastige...

[UhUhNoWay]

Melz, that's why I prefer swimming, I swear, I am allergic to sweat. My face will bust out into a crazy red rash if I sweat. It gets crazy hot here too, so early morning or early evening walks with my dogs are becoming popular, especially since both dogs have eye disease, and it's better for them to walk when the sun is low, down or not yet up yet.
Ok PA, I'm not posing like that, especially topless. My gut goo is going to have to be cut off, no amount of exercise is gonna repair that, but, I should probably add some weight training too.

[PatrioticAmerican]

Gut goo... LOL Mmmmmmmm

As for the "diet," that's going to have to be between you guys and your docs or dieticians.

As I said in the other thread, I'm following the South Beach Diet. I got excellent results last year before I started overworking and then falling off the diet wagon.

It is mentally challenging, though, because for the first two weeks (strict phase), you THINK you're still hungry because you aren't eating carbs or sugar. The best way to avoid the pitfalls is to prepare your food before you're hungry.

Also stock up on TONS of sugarless popsicles. Seriously, they taste sugary, and only have 10 calories. They help you through the rough patches until your body stops craving the sugars. This is good for lowering excessive blood sugar.

And, drink a lot of water. Keeps you hydrated, and, if you're planning on weight lifting, your muscles will need the H2O. (Women, you probably know already that you have nothing to worry about, in terms of getting "buff).

[PatrioticAmerican]

Warlady, I'm sorry to hear about your pain. I fell out of a tree in Hawaii when I was 8, and landed on my back, on an exposed tree root. When I was twenty-one, I hyperextended backward on a pommel horse, doing a sommersault. Both incidents damaged my back. I've lived with back pain that acts up from time to time. Especially when my stomach muscles and back are out of shape. Sounds like you're worse off, though, so I sympathize.

We can't give up, though. That's what our nineties are for: to sit in wheelchairs and remember when we could move. So, try your best, and we'll be here for you.

[UhUhNoWay]

I kind of WANT to have buff arms...well at least buff forearms, (not like popeye but cut and defined) I kinda dig the veins I am seeing starting to pop out on my hands, wrists and forearms.

[Melz]

This is my picture (again..bleh) and it is not sideways so we do not so far know the dimensions of my yuck. lol.

Uhuh, I love swimming! I was a lifeguard before college and it is the best exercise ever! I have to rush home every day to take care of my daughter though, and there are no pools in sight for the seasons beyond summer. I could go to the YMCA I suppose, and may have to. It is the best workout for a person to swim though !!!

[PatrioticAmerican]

Oh, I didn't realize you're a gal, Melz. I should've said, ya beeyotch, before, regarding your "Pasta Diet." :grin:

[BEST45CAL]

It's possible to lose weight quickly in the beginning, and then gain some back or appear to stop losing but not gain any, either. If you're gaining muscle weight, that's fine. Don't freak out. Muscle is heavier than fat. Plus, the fat will continue to burn off. It will burn off even faster if you exercise the large muscle groups in your body, such as leg muscles.

Sometimes, the key to losing weight is eating the right amount of food all day long.

For example, if you need 2000 calories a day, you shouldn't eat most of them before bedtime or in one or two meals.

God bless all of you and keep up the great work!:claps:

[UhUhNoWay]

That's a good point Best, I've noticed that I can stay at the same weight for weeks, yet my clothing will steadily get looser. Then suddenly I'll drop anywhere from 1/2 a pound to 3 pounds overnight...I also tend to do better with small frequent (every 3 or 4 hours)snack type meals (1/2 c cottage cheese, or yogurt or tuna salad on crackers etc) rather than 'meals' less often. I also find if I am eating mostly protein, I don't get hungry as often. YMMV as a friend often says...My body My science experiment.

[BEST45CAL]

That's a good point Best, I've noticed that I can stay at the same weight for weeks, yet my clothing will steadily get looser. Then suddenly I'll drop anywhere from 1/2 a pound to 3 pounds overnight...I also tend to do better with small frequent (every 3 or 4 hours)snack type meals (1/2 c cottage cheese, or yogurt or tuna salad on crackers etc) rather than 'meals' less often. I also find if I am eating mostly protein, I don't get hungry as often. YMMV as a friend often says...My body My science experiment.

Absolutely correct. It sounds like you are trading excess fat for muscle. A good sign, especially if your clothes are getting loose.

There's something else that I want to point out: We may not notice that our exterior has changed much when losing weight, but we may find that we're more flexible (especially around the core) after losing a few pounds. Another sign that the body is indeed burning up fat.

Frequent eating will trick your body into thinking that there is a lot of food around.

When that happens, the body will burn up excess fat. It's the body's automatic survival mechanism in reverse. The body will get rid of any excess that it does not need. Water with every meal will help speed up that process. (I'm not telling you anything you don't already know.)

If you only eat one or two times a day, the body will think that there isn't much food around and will turn what you ate into fat for future use. The body will think that there isn't much food around.

I eat at least 3 times a day without fail. Sometimes I have a snack between breakfast and lunch, or between lunch and dinner. Sometmes, I have two snacks a day. Sometimes I have one snack and one dessert. It depends.

What works for me is a 2:1 carb to protein ratio. If you are over 40, you should eat a little more protein. I don't feel tired after I eat and I have a sustained level of energy that I am sure will last beyond the next meal.

:thumb:

[Melz]

Cool, lots of good advice! I usually eat once, maybe twice a day. Probably not a good idea from the sound of it. I do drink a lot of water though, all day long. I have given up fast food (I have done good for over 2 weeks, going from having it almost every day to not having it at all), and I am eating more chicken and pork. Now if I can just bring myself to actually step on that scale..lol.

[Peachdiane]

No Melz! I ate once or twice a day and my weight yo-yo'ed up to 230!!

Here's my before pic (at 230#) and after pic (90 # taken off) .... if anyone wants to know what worked for me, I'll share...

[Melz]

Very impressive! Okay, of course we all want to know what worked for you Diane! I am impressed, congrats !!!

[TechnoPrincess]

Hi all! Losing weight is not really an option for me at the moment, as they are still working out two of my meds, and I may be...well...I may gain more weight in a good way...

ANYWAY...I am here to support those of you who can lose weight. Currently I'm 5'6" and 225. I hope in 12 weeks to still be 5'6" and 225, as that would be the first 12 week period in 5 years I haven't gained!!! And, it would mean that they have FINALLY gotten some of my meds straightened out. If I weigh more than that...I hope it's cause I'm REALLY HAPPY!!!

Congrats Diane, you do have to share what you did!!

[BEST45CAL]

Just remember that the body likes gradual change.

Don't give up if your body doesn't respond as quickly as you think it should when you're working out more or eating better.

[Charity]

Prayer for success to all our friends who are trying to get healthy and shed some pounds. Let us lift up one another.

[Charity]

Peachdiane you look wonderful :-)

[Charity]

Is there a good "CHEESECAKE" diet anyone can suggest? :-)

[UhUhNoWay]

Hi all! Loosing weight is not really an option for me at the moment, as they are still working out two of my meds, and I may be...well...I may gain more weight in a good way...

ANYWAY...I am here to support those of you who can loose weight. Currently I'm 5'6" and 225. I hope in 12 weeks to still be 5'6" and 225, as that would be the first 12 week period in 5 years I haven't gained!!! And, it would mean that they have FINALLY gotten some of my meds straightened out. If I weigh more than that...I hope it's cause I'm REALLY HAPPY!!!

Congrats Diane, you do have to share what you did!! *gasp* are you suggesting the pitter patter of lit'l feet may be in your future?! LOL Wouldn't that be a blip if that silly woman at work wasn't so far off the mark after all?

[TechnoPrincess]

*gasp* are you suggesting the pitter patter of lit'l feet may be in your future?! LOL Wouldn't that be a blip if that silly woman at work wasn't so far off the mark after all?

Possibly. I go to find out for sure on Monday. I would die laughing if she wasn't...then again, maybe she knows something I don't!

[Jim Sentry]

Back in 1999 I weighed in at 237lbs. My Dr. recommended the Sugar Busters Book, I read it and a year later I was down to 148lbs.
I'm 5'8"

I maintained that weight for several years but we started to remodel our kitchen and did'nt have any appliances to cook with so we ate out alot and I ballooned up to 205.

I just started back on Sugar Busters, 8/8/05, on 8/20 I was down to 198. I also walk every morning about 2 miles, want to get to 3 though.

I expect to be back to 148 by February.

[Teenager]

Possibly. I go to find out for sure on Monday. I would die laughing if she wasn't...then again, maybe she knows something I don't!<!-- / message --><!-- sig -->

Oh Cool!! I hope it's true!! That'll be soo awesome.

[BEST45CAL]

Amen to that Sugar Busters. If you never exercise, just cutting down on or cutting out the sugar will have a tremendously good effect on the body and overall well-being.


I don't know if this happens to anyone else, but when I eat a lot of sugar or pasta, it irritates my face to the point of becoming very red and tender. Inflammation.

Congrats to all!:thumb:

[Melz]

Sugar or pasta makes me fall asleep asap! Seriously, I have no idea what does it, but it is an immediate reaction. I like to eat protein only because it has positive affects on my perkyness, but I know that most of the protein I like (raw steak and boiled eggs and bacon) is so unhealthy...ack.

What about that Weight Watchers thing. It is a point system so as long as you are within alloted points and exercise, you do lose weight. But that can mean eating one really big meal a day and having some wine. Which doesn't seem healthy from what I am seeing here, but it works from what I hear.

[Conserv_Atticus]

I go to the United Gym of Bowflex... hehehe. Since school is starting i'll most likely start working out. Which is always good and healthy for me!

[Melz]

I have one of those Gazell machine things from Tony Little. I do like it, but now that I have this house (smaller than the house I rented, but hey, I own this one!!), I have nowhere really to put it. Well, nowhere I would use it. I do think it is low impact and very cardio though, I like it !

[PatrioticAmerican]

PeachDiane, fantastic results.

[Rink]

Well I'm 166 lbs, I need to lose some weight, got a weight set outside (no room inside or outside to be able to use it) got a rower SOMEWHERE round here but again no room to put it at in order to 'exercise'

I have a bike but the road here is so steep it wears me out just walkin up and down it.

I miss the old place cuz the roads there weren't so darned steep.

After quitting taking care of horses I started gaining weight, I 'discovered' food in 1990 after I Finally put my foot down and made myself eat (ensure plus to me saved my life) before then i was skinny as a rail and anorexic.

Now I cant keep the weight off because i go after all the wrong foods.

Living in a family where the old man was a 'meat and potatoes' type (Irish) doesn't help.

IF I could find a way to eat a balanced diet, learn to cook right and eat correctly and walk a lil bit I think I'd be fine, I know right now for a fact I am living a sedentary life.

I have that sugar-busters book but I suck at going through and reading such stuff.

And to me diet is a dirty word cuz one never really stays on em long enough, for me a 'diet' would be just a change in eating and living habits that I can live with the rest of my life instead of denying myself the things I enjoy.

Right now I'm suspecting I may have diabetes because of the problems I am having, and am in the process of finding out whether I do or dont have it, they did several comprehensive tests including the usual finger prick test the results of that was 128 (dont ask me I Have absolutely NO idea what that means).

I'm almost deaf and my eyes are my life, and if I have diabetes I wanna make Damn sure I dont lose my eyesight, cuz if I do I will be Devastated.

been havin probs with my eyes and that scares me.

Anything but my eyes.

If they tell me lose thus-and-such amount of weight I'll do it but it again to me has to be something of a lifetime change instead of those fad diets. I wanna also be able to enjoy foods, I dont wanna live my life on bland foods that i wont enjoy.

Dunno my family Medical history so that too is a hum dinger of a prob.

I'm willin if someone is willin to walk me thru it so I dont get discouraged with a 'diet'

I LOVE fish of any and all sorts except anchovies.

[BEST45CAL]

Rink, I think you should see a registered dietician. People who specialize in weight loss and diabetes education--someone with the suffix BS, RD, CDE, RN, or CPT behind their name. They will be able to provide you with the information and direction you need. (Notice I left out "M.D.") These are the people that the doctors send you to.

That's what I did because diabetes runs in our family, and I don't want to get it. This disease has killed people in my family. My grandfather had it and lost his sight a few years before he passed away at 82 from this scourge.

So after a few visits, I left there with a lot of knowledge and a free blood glucose tester and strips. It's called "FreeStyle Flash." My blood sugar is normal, but goes sky high if I have to take prednisone for my random bouts with bronchitis.

A dietician will provide you with a list of foods you should be eating, and those you should avoid like the plague. I assure you that you will not have to eat "rabbit food" for the rest of your life.

Diabetes is a dreadful disease that causes many health problems, especially problems with the kidneys, eyes, heart, etc.

Don't mess around with this. Seek help immediately.

[Rink]

Thanks Best, thats one reason why I'm goin to a doctor and insisting on comprehensive tests.

What I mainly eat is whole wheat toast with Dickinson's Blackraspberry jam on it, with reg butter (not margarine)

Mashed potatoes (when I want em mixed with applesauce (seneca reg) and my fav chocolate coffee (Folgers Mocha fusion in milk not water)

I Dont eat much, but I also dont eat right either, been livin on this and I TRULY need to s tart eating right.

I couldnt live that way when I was a skinny thing, and i cant live this way now.

I know I have a prob I just dont know how to remedy it, so when I find out the results I may ask for a nutritionist.

I'm a sweet and sour type, if I eat a sour thing, I have to counter it with sweet, but I Do NOT have a sweet tooth, my mother has the sweet tooth.

Cant stand too much 'sweet' anything.

My grandmother on my dad's side had uncontrolled diabetes

I have found my BP goes up when I drink beer, so I just come to mind that beer and me just dont mix anymore.

I have no idea why on that either.

(but then again being adopted I have absolutely NO friggin idea what my family medical history, I Really need to find out somehow, as its not like I'm gonna find out who my birth parents are, and if I even do I dont intend to bother em if they dont wanna be bothered, I'm Very content as I am).

[UhUhNoWay]

Rink, usually a glucose value under 110 is ok, 128 is not astronomical, but it is an indication there could be a problem. When you tested were you fasting before they drew the blood? That can make a difference.
Here's a tip that really works for anyone trying to get motivated to 'exercise' ...it doesn't have to be technical 'exercise' just move... my favorite, is just dancing around the kitchen when cooking...it doesn't FEEL like dreary old exercise...but, it gets your heart rate up, you don't get bored...and if no one is in the kitchen with you...you can really burn the calories because everyone knows you dance much better if no one sees you LOL I also have a concrete slab that the washer & dryer is on, when loading the washer I'll stand there and do 'stair steppers' up and down on the slab..it's not much, but it's more than nothing. Stupid lit'l things like parking farther out in the parking lot...taking the cart all the way back to the front of the store instead of leaving it near the car...things that seem insignificant, but if you do a bunch of lit'l things like that it counts!
I am going on vacation tomorrow, which means for the next week I will be chasing after an 8 year old and a 2 year old, when I get back I'll need a vacation. (I'll have access there but I'm not sure if I'll have time to check in....but will absolutely check in with a weight by Sunday the 4th...when I get home to my own scale.)

[Rink]

I dont mind parking further from a store, when I walk in stores or malls I tend to keep a brutally fast pace that can be dautning for anyone else, (old habits lol)

I Would like to have some sort of daily walk or something, just.... this hill is so STEEP to start with. :(

What kept me in shape all these years was barn work (yes I shoveled horse manure for ten years lol)

kept me Very strong and in good condition.

No barns nearby only have one horse and she's not here.

So....

Good Luck on your vacation :thumb:

As for the meter, no I wasnt fasting, I did that today but they didnt take a measurement then this morning.

when they did take the finger prick test I had spuds and coffee early that morning. (round 5am) and they tested me at 11 - 12 noon.

[UhUhNoWay]

Back home they used to have groups of folks that met at the mall when they opened and did 'laps' around the mall...maybe you can do that, and get in some good window shopping too...Christmas IS just around the corner.
Usually when I have my glucose tested, I have to fast, and they do an actual blood draw (from my arm) Maybe Warlady would know better...isn't she a nurse?
I wouldn't panic just yet but it is a good idea to keep an eye on it.

[Rink]

I fasted last nite and they drew my boood this morning for the comprehensive test.

Now as for mall laps, um the nearest mall is um like 50 miles from me, not quite amenable with the way the gas prices are so high (I live in the sticks heh),

Thanks for the idea tho, will keep it in mind.

[Melz]

Okay you all are motivating me to no end. I have no physical reason that hinders me from getting out there and doing what I have done my whole life up until ..well I guess laziness set in. I still have a household to run and a job which keeps me away from home at a desk for 10 hours a day. I need to somehow find time and motivation for exercise. I have no medical issues, I have priority issues..i need to re-prioritize :)

[UhUhNoWay]

Holy Moly 50 miles?! Makes that pesky steep hill look more attractive. That would be a good way to measure your progress...how far up the hill or down the hill you are able to go.
My sister's drive is the same, last time I was up there, I was going to take the baby for a walk, and the stroller almost got out of control on the down slope...decided to 'stroll' her around the yard instead LOL

[Rink]

LOl cant 'stroll round my yard lol not a flat spot there either LMAO I live on a steep hill, the grade is approx 16.67% (I know this cuz there's some big-wig developer wanting to put in a big subdivision just below and beside my house and they want a variance on the road I live on cuz its steper than the allowed grade by my town's ordinance which is 15.% grade.)

[UhUhNoWay]

Okay you all are motivating me to no end. I have no physical reason that hinders me from getting out there and doing what I have done my whole life up until ..well I guess laziness set in. I still have a household to run and a job which keeps me away from home at a desk for 10 hours a day. I need to somehow find time and motivation for exercise. I have no medical issues, I have priority issues..i need to re-prioritize :) Well Melz, after all it boils down to all about you. The household depends on YOU, work depends on YOU, and YOU need to make time for YOU. Just don't overwhelm yourself with some crazy routine. Just do lit'l things, baby steps...and give yourself credit when you do.

[Melz]

Thank you Uhuh, I do need to put some me time in there. I am very OC about schedule and time and how things go, that is my downfall. If something wacks it out, I get time and schedule back in order. If I let go of that (I have had this OC issue for so long, it takes over all thru the weekdays) then I am free to open time up for me.

Thank you for listening to me rant, love you all and goodnight to meh Freecers :)

[Warlady]

Rink, 128 after eating potatoes isn't at all indicative that you are a diabetic. The high norm is 110 as Uhuh stated. Even if you had been fasting 128 would not mean you're diabetic. They need to do a glucose tolerance test on you. That takes 6 hours because they have to draw blood once an hour for 6 hours after you drink the glucose. I would be shocked if you were diagnosed positive for diabetes. What are your symptoms? Are you constantly thirsty? Do you get dizzy or faint? The symptoms for high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) are almost identical to the symptoms for low blood sugar or hypoglycemia.

Thanks to everyone who posted to me. Sorry I've been away. We've been busy working on a decision for the Religion forum.

What I need is an expert nutritionist who can work with someone who is sedentary. I will cut down on carbs (sugar & starches). I'm thinking the South Beach diet may be best for me since it's not as strict as Atkins.

[Keb]

I've been small all my life and have enjoyed the freedom of eating anything and everything I ever wanted.....and then I turned 42. That very morning, not only did my metabolism slow down but my eyesight went downhill!!! I'm kidding but it did come on fast. Anyway, while I'm still small I have to work hard at it. Here are some things that work for me:

I cut back on sugar and dairy which was like my life blood. Cut back, not cut out. I also don't eat too many breads, pastry, french toast......oh boy, I love that stuff!

Drink water, all day, everyday. When I'm hungry, I drink a glass of water and then eat.

Take a minimum of 20 mins to eat your meal. You'll be surprised at how that bigger portion or second helping will seem to be too much.

Lift some sort of weights. It will shape and tone your body but it will benefit you so much in the long run especially as you age.

EXERCISE! I used to run 5 miles a day but now I walk it. Even if you just dance in your living-room, you need to move and get your blood pumping. If you do a very small amount of exercise to begin with, you'll be surprised at how fast you can add-on to it. You can be healthy on the outside and unhealthy on the inside. I've got the family history to prove it.

All the best to this awesome group who are determined to improve their health!:claps:

[BEST45CAL]

What I need is an expert nutritionist who can work with someone who is sedentary. I will cut down on carbs (sugar & starches). I'm thinking the South Beach diet may be best for me since it's not as strict as Atkins.

The South Beach diet is an excellent diet. It shouldn't leave you feeling hungry or deprived. Kitty was on it for a while and did really well with it. We still buy the South Beach bars and frozen entrées.

If you could find someone who specializes in diabetes education and weight loss, I think they should be ideal for what you're looking for. I know you don't have diabetes, but recommending alternative foods and helping you plan meals is their forte.

I would think that just cutting out the sugar and pasta would do quite a lot to help with the weight reduction. I know that when I cut out the sugar and pasta, it made me feel a whole lot better and got rid of the inflammation that I was experiencing on my face within a few days. I eat pasta so infrequently that when I do eat it, it doesn't bother me anymore. I think I eat pasta once every two months or so when we order carry out from the Olive Garden. I eat real sugar even less frequently because I get a reaction after a few servings.

Cutting down on the sodas got rid of the bloating (that I didn't notice until I stopped drinking it). What a difference! Crystal Light is an excellent substitute if you like sweet (or fruit) drinks. I drink it everyday. The original orange is my favorite. The other flavors are awesome, too. No diet flavor!

Good luck!:thumb:

[Rink]

Rink, 128 after eating potatoes isn't at all indicative that you are a diabetic. The high norm is 110 as Uhuh stated. Even if you had been fasting 128 would not mean you're diabetic. They need to do a glucose tolerance test on you. That takes 6 hours because they have to draw blood once an hour for 6 hours after you drink the glucose. I would be shocked if you were diagnosed positive for diabetes. What are your symptoms? Are you constantly thirsty? Do you get dizzy or faint? The symptoms for high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) are almost identical to the symptoms for low blood sugar or hypoglycemia.

Thanks to everyone who posted to me. Sorry I've been away. We've been busy working on a decision for the Religion forum.

What I need is an expert nutritionist who can work with someone who is sedentary. I will cut down on carbs (sugar & starches). I'm thinking the South Beach diet may be best for me since it's not as strict as Atkins.

Not heard of this blood glucose test but I will explore that with them next time I meet with em, they did a urine test and then I had to fast for 12 hours then have my blood tested and then as you know I had the finger prick test.

Symptoms I've been having is excessive thirst, excessive voiding day and night, and am tired for no reason even after a good nights rest, eyes get Real blurry and I cant see or read well.

Dunno bout dizzy spells, as I get dizzy with my hearing probs every so often.

So that I am not sure of, but the rest I'm very aware of and it seems to be getting worse as time goes, thats the reason why I'm investigating this to make Very certain it is or isnt diabetes, because I just do NOT want to mess around when it comes to my sight, as my sight's all I got left in this world and I just dont wanna loose it.

[Longhorn_Platinum]

:moo: I'm a step ahead of y'all. I started reducing last May, & have been steadily declining. I can't say how many pounds I've lost, since I can't find a reliable scale, but my belt is about three notches tighter. Size 34 jeans are now loose-fitting. I intend to keep the weight loss coming, until sometime in October or November. Hopefully, the fat will be gone by then.

[DoctorDoom]

It's time to dispense with all the myths and misconceptions. Here are the FACTS.

<hr>
Health Tips and News: The Straight Dope On Food, Health, & Exercise

Q: I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true?
A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.

Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
A: You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak is nothing more than an efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef is also a good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable slop.

Q: Is beer or wine bad for me?
A: Look, it goes to the earlier point about fruits and vegetables. As we all know, scientists divide everything in the world into three categories: animal, mineral, and vegetable. We all know that beer and wine are not animal, and they are not on the periodic table of elements, so that only leaves one thing, right? My advice: Have a burger and a beer and enjoy your liquid vegetables.

Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?
A: Well, if you have a body, and you have body fat, your ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio is two to one, etc.

Q: At the gym, a guy asked me to "spot" for him while he did the bench press. What did he mean?
A: "Spotting" for someone means you stand over him while he blows air up your shorts. It's an accepted practice at health clubs; though if you find that it becomes the ONLY reason why you're going in, you probably ought to reevaluate your exercise program.

Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain - Good.

Q: If I stop smoking, will I live longer?
A: Nope. Smoking is a sign of individual expression and peace of mind. If you stop, you'll probably stress yourself to death in record time.

Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
A: You're not listening. Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil. In fact, they're permeated in it. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you?

Q: What's the secret to healthy eating?
A: Thicker gravy.

Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach.

[Teenager]

Ok, I finally weighed myself just to make sure. I actually weigh 162, not 160!! Progress already!!! :D

[Melz]

I am now subscribing to whatever Doc's diet entails. Which essentially means that I do not change a habit, I just feel more positive about my habits!!! woohoo!!!

[Longhorn_Platinum]

Q: I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true?
A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster.

:unsmile: But, doesn't cardiovascular exercise result in a slower heart rate? Sure, your heart pumps faster, for the hour you exercise, then it pumps slower for the other twenty-three hours.

[Peachdiane]

Thanks to those for the congrats....

I'm gonna sound loonier than that Sheehan gal but you gotta get your mind and soul ready. At 230# I was in a real real bad place. I had tried all kind of diets: SlimFast, grapefruit, etc. I was also trying to get myself and the kids out of an abusive marriage and calling the shelters for help.

Worked on healing my mind and soul first and then I was ready and committed to losing weight. Best is right about gradual changes. I never focused on calories or obsessed about losing pounds. The judge gave my ex the truck in the protective orders and divorce so I just walked more. At least 2-4 miles a day up to exactly 4 miles a day. When it came to fast food, I ate at Subway, not BK or McD's. I also ate smaller portions more frequently. Since I was on limited income I just ate whatever my kids didn't finish, rather than fix myself a plate. :eek:

Just take care of yourself emotionally first. Told ya I sounded loony. :p

[Longhorn_Platinum]

Peachdiane:
When it came to fast food, I ate at Subway, not BK or McD's.

:moo: I've heard the Chicken Whopper® is good for people who are watching their weight. It tastes good, too.

[Peachdiane]

Longhorn, you're the best. (Well second best) But you know I'd have to eat it filet only. Comes to 570 cals and 25 grams of fat with the bun and mayo. :eek:

[dPrasse]

It is great for watching your weight ...go up !!

Just eat the lettuce and tomato ... throw out the bun , mayo and filet ...

[Peachdiane]

:rotflmbo:

No! That'd be my mom! (Shhhh) She'd eat the lettuce. The dog gets the tomato.

[Longhorn_Platinum]

:moo: If you're not concerned about Aspartame, that Coca-Cola® Zero tastes good, especially with a few drops of imitation vanilla flavoring added.

:moo: My current strategy is to limit myself to two meals per day, with small portions. I can get by on Honey Nut Cheerios® with skim milk for breakfast, work through dinner (with the help of my special concoction), & my wife's cooking for supper. She's Chinese, so she can cook vegetables well.

:smirky: Although, I'm concerned that my current strategy might not be the healthiëst thing in the world, but then, neither is being fat. Once the weight is off, I'll consider switching away from the Coke Zero, & watching my portions for three meals.

:unsmile: Also, I've always avoided fad diëts, since they tend to backfire, once you go off of them.

[Peachdiane]

I think Aspartame is harmful, only in massive quantities. You know, gallons and gallons a day. Until then I stick to the Lipton unsweetened tea sold in the six pack. But I might have to give Zero a try. :)

Congrats dude!!! I'm still working at it too. Never ends. I envy farmers like dP with a high metabolism who had to drink SlimFast in addition to eating, just to keep weight on. :)

[Wolfcounsel]

":unsmile: But, doesn't cardiovascular exercise result in a slower heart rate? Sure, your heart pumps faster, for the hour you exercise, then it pumps slower for the other twenty-three hours." --Longhorn_Platinum

The more toned your muscles are, the better they can pump blood to your brain, with the slightest movement your body makes. In this way, your heart does not have to pump as hard.

[Geoffrey20005]

Alright, I don't mean to tread on anyone's toes here, but this kinda goes along...

I am trying to get on some form of a 'diet'.. but my main goal is to gain a little weight. I am either over-worked or else my metabolism is off the chart... I think I eat anywhere around 3000-5000 calories a day, and I stay at the same height/weight day after day. (6'4" and 160 lbs)

Anyone have any ideas? I am trying to add a little muscle-mass before basketball season starts up. Any ideas at all?

-Geoffrey

[BEST45CAL]

Alright, I don't mean to tread on anyone's toes here, but this kinda goes along...

I am trying to get on some form of a 'diet'.. but my main goal is to gain a little weight. I am either over-worked or else my metabolism is off the chart... I think I eat anywhere around 3000-5000 calories a day, and I stay at the same height/weight day after day. (6'4" and 160 lbs)

Anyone have any ideas? I am trying to add a little muscle-mass before basketball season starts up. Any ideas at all?

-Geoffrey

If you want to build up muscle, you have to give 'em what they need. Calories alone won't do it, but if you are taking in a good amount of protein, it can make all the difference.

I have used (with great success) the Met-Rx (http://www.metrx.com/detail.aspx?ParentID=27)powder (shakes). I use the indivudial packs and mix 'em with water. They are essentialy protein shakes, but they also provide you with the nutrients to support muscle growth and maintain energy levels. Then, just add weight training to your basketball workout schedule.

Give yourself at least one day rest between weight training workouts, too. When you lift, you are essentially tearing down muscle fibers. The rest between workouts will enable those fibers to heal so you can lift more. The protein shakes will help with recovery.

Do not use creatine. All that does is give you size. It forces water into the muscles to give them the appearance of looking larger. This extra water in the muscles is supposed to provide more leverage to them by giving the fibers less room to expand, theoretically allowing you to lift more. You will gain weight, but it will be water weight, not muscle.

You could end up with symptoms that mimic high blood pressure and kidney disease.

Avoid creatine at all costs!

[Rink]

hey Peach I'm unfortunately addicted to aspartame laced drink, my Chocolate coffee (Folgers 'Mocha Fusion') has aspartame in it and that is THE only thing I have not been able to give up after trying, I'm addicted to that one thing.

Tried getting off it without success.

I hate aspartame.

Wish Folgers would make an instant coffeee that didnt have it.

Thats my only failure when it comes to quitting something.

[Peachdiane]

Sounds yummy! I'm ok with it, really. It's Splenda I can't tolerate.

[Rink]

Well if ya wanna try it I use 8 ounces of Milk then put it in the microwave for one minute, 54 seconds, then I put three heaping Teaspoonfull in, then three pinches to grow an inch, then one for good luck THEN five more 'pinches' to bring it up to 12 (good numbers really, 3, 7, then 12)

yea I know I'm weird but thats how I do it.

Tastes seriously good and one fine cuppa or Two is good enough for me for the day

[Geoffrey20005]

avoid creatine at all costs!

Eeps, I will from now on. I tried it for a little while last year, and it didn't help much, so I gave it up. Ill not even touch the stuff again...

Thanks for the info. My sister is selling the Herbalife products, and she suggested a system where I drink protein shakes after my first two meals of the day, and making sure I eat full meals. She said that will give me the extra edge and help to add muscle mass, plus to take multi-vitamins.

-Geoffrey

[Teenager]

TP, tell us how the results turn out tomorrow. If you want, of course.

[DeclinetoState]

No Melz! I ate once or twice a day and my weight yo-yo'ed up to 230!!

Here's my before pic (at 230#) and after pic (90 # taken off) .... if anyone wants to know what worked for me, I'll share...Nice pics Peach; they look like pics of two different women. The dog is cute, too.

If you want to lose weight, post full-color pics of Michael Moore, Teddy Kennedy, and/or Helen Thomas on your refrigerator door. You will lose all of your appetite the moment you set foot in the kitchen.

Of course, you may wind up anorexic or bulimic...

[Melz]

Nice pics Peach; they look like pics of two different women. The dog is cute, too.

If you want to lose weight, post full-color pics of Michael Moore, Teddy Kennedy, and/or Helen Thomas on your refrigerator door. You will lose all of your appetite the moment you set foot in the kitchen.

Of course, you may wind up anorexic or bulimic...

That is serious motivation!! Unfortunately, I don't need motivation to avoid eating..I avoid it like the plague and still it doesn't work. Apparently, eating more often is the trick. MM must have missed the "trick" though, I have no idea why someone hasn't gone all intervention on him.....

[BEST45CAL]

Thanks for the info. My sister is selling the Herbalife products, and she suggested a system where I drink protein shakes after my first two meals of the day, and making sure I eat full meals. She said that will give me the extra edge and help to add muscle mass, plus to take multi-vitamins.

-Geoffrey

Sounds good to me. Also, keep a record of your progress and let us know how you're doing! :thumb:

[SunnyBrook]

Hey!

I just wanted to add this:

WATCH OUT FOR THE SPLENDA!!!

My husband recently had tea sweetened with Splenda at a friend's house. Within 2 hours, he broke out in a bad rash/hives all over. In researching this, I found that lots of folks are having this happen. Some had been drinking Splenda-sweetened soft drinks for quite awhile before they developed an intolerance and starting breaking out in a rash. Some struggled with the skin rash for some time, visiting docs, etc. before finally realizing what was causing it.

I use Splenda (sucralose) occasionally, and haven't had a problem, but this episode has made me less likely to buy things sweetened with it. READ THE LABEL FINE PRINT! Many items contain this, including unexpected things like some microwave popcorn!

[Rink]

Microwave popcorn???

And they dont tell people that crap is in those foods?????

[TechnoPrincess]

Hey!

I just wanted to add this:

WATCH OUT FOR THE SPLENDA!!!

My husband recently had tea sweetened with Splenda at a friend's house. Within 2 hours, he broke out in a bad rash/hives all over. In researching this, I found that lots of folks are having this happen. Some had been drinking Splenda-sweetened soft drinks for quite awhile before they developed an intolerance and starting breaking out in a rash. Some struggled with the skin rash for some time, visiting docs, etc. before finally realizing what was causing it.

I use Splenda (sucralose) occasionally, and haven't had a problem, but this episode has made me less likely to buy things sweetened with it. READ THE LABEL FINE PRINT! Many items contain this, including unexpected things like some microwave popcorn!

I so far have been good with Splenda, but have the similar reaction to Equal. I get also get a burning type sensation in my mouth...similar to if you accidently inhale cleaning products...

Hope your hubby is okay!!

[TechnoPrincess]

TP, tell us how the results turn out tomorrow. If you want, of course.

I went to the Doc's this morning and the tests came back weird...so I have a blood test I'm waiting to hear back on and an ultrasound scheduled for tomorrow.

I just pray that I'm either pregnant, just very late due to stress, or that it's another benign ovarian cyst. The alternative is very bad!!

[Teenager]

TP, just pm me on the results. I'm thinking of you!

[Keb]

Princess, I'll keep a devotion especially for you. Let us know when you hear anything, babe.:kiss chee

WATCH OUT FOR THE SPLENDA!!!

We catch Dr Rosenfeld once in a while who comes on FOX early Sunday mornings. He did a few minutes strictly on these sugar substitutes. Now, I have no idea if what he says is worth abiding by or not. I just found it interesting.

Aspartame - This has been shown to cause lymphoma in mice with prolonged use.

Splenda - Starts as sugar and then by changing the molecular structure, becomes Splenda. He wasn't wild about this because he didn't believe there were enough long-term studies done on humans.

Saccharine - Although shown to cause cancer in mice (kinda like Aspartame), it never proved true for humans.

Of all of the three, he recommends Saccharine (if you absolutely need a sugar substitue as diabetics do) because of it's long-term history. Otherwise, he advises to use raw sugar and wean yourself off of the sugary things you eat and drink.

[Peachdiane]

I so far have been good with Splenda, but have the similar reaction to Equal. I get also get a burning type sensation in my mouth...similar to if you accidently inhale cleaning products...

How interesting! I'm ok with Equal but Splenda gives me the burning sensation.

Thinking of you too, TP!

[PatrioticAmerican]

So far, I've come down three pounds. I should do my measurements right away, in order to effectively document my progress. I'll post those later.

How is everyone else doing (or not doing)?

[SunnyBrook]

My hubby is fine now. It took the rash/hives about 3 days to go away. He took Benadryl to help. I forgot to mention that it also caused aching pain in his joints and back. I guess he had hives on the inside too. Weird!

I read that Splenda is chlorinated sugar. I'm seriously wondering if I should not use it again, 'cause I'm usually the one who reacts to things.

...but it was great to have a sweetener you could bake with!

Some of you might want to try the natural sweetener Stevia. It's usually available with the other sweeteners--in a bottle on the top shelf or therabouts.

[Teenager]

My dad gets headaches from splenda. But he says if he polarizes it(put on a magnet for a few minutes), it doesn't bother him.
And yes, it is chlorinated suger. . .

[Melz]

So far, I've come down three pounds. I should do my measurements right away, in order to effectively document my progress. I'll post those later.

How is everyone else doing (or not doing)?

I don't know how I am doing..i have yet to step on the scale (yes, I know, that should have been the first step in this). I have changed that "eat once a day" thing I was doing and I have a little bit throughout the day. Thing is, that adds more calories, or fat or carbs, whatever. When I eat once a day I know exactly what intake that is. If i continually eat small things, that seems to be more calories/fat/carbs than that one meal would do.

As you can tell, I am ..working on it.

[Longhorn_Platinum]

Melz:
I don't know how I am doing..i have yet to step on the scale (yes, I know, that should have been the first step in this).

:moo: Scales are often unreliable. If they don't show me the result I want to see, there's always the "blue jean scale", or the "belt scale". If my jeans fit better, I don't care what the scales say. Of course, I'm a man, so I can pump iron, & put on muscle; that might cause the scales to tip a little higher, so the blue jean scale tells a better tale.

:moo: Although, I recently noticed that some very old blue jeans seem WAY too tight for the size they're supposed to be. Do those things shrink with age? It appears they do. That's why I also recommend the "belt scale".

[PatrioticAmerican]

Melz, you HAVE to eat sensible meals and snacks multiple times throughout the day as was suggested. Doing that will not destroy you. On the contrary, your body will not be in starvation and hoarde mode because you're only eating once or twice per day.

You must eat, drink (water), and be merry (exercise)! And, for goodness sake, get on the scale and take measurements. Confront your anxiety and do a reality check. You cannot gauge your progress unless you have a documented starting point. You'll get over whatever depression (or shock) you may initially have when you read the scale. :yikes:

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail, right?

You can do this!

[Geoffrey20005]

Keep in mind, Splenda is a derivant of sugar, and therefore isn't completely 'sugar-free' like the commercials like to claim it is.

Sugars aren't all that bad for your body, as long as you are not diabetic. What you really need to watch is your carbohydrate intake. And yes, sugars do count as carbohydrates, even though they are faster burning. If you really want a diet that works well, limit the amount of daily carb in-take. Drink a glass of water before you eat. Eat your salad before your main meal (romain if possible, not iceburg) and eat a bigger salad. Just watch how much and what type of dressing you put on the salad :) (A few freebie foods that don't contain any carbs are nuts, like almonds (I think))

-Geoffrey

[TechnoPrincess]

GOOD SHINEY MORNING TO EVERYONE!!!!

I am not pregnant, I am just overstressed and slightly anemic. I have to take iron pills and that's it. YAY!! And they did check for the "bad stuff" and that's not it either!!!

Thank you all for the warm wishes, prayers, emails and thoughts!!! You guys are the best!

OH...and I have somehow lost 5lb, making me 220!! WOOHOO!!

[Wyatt_Junker]

I've been recently watching Spike TV's Ultimate Fighter series which has gotten me motivated to get back those little squares on my abs again, which I never really lost but just needed a bit more carving. And plus, I want to start fighting again because I really do enjoy kicking people's ass. Losing weight is a side-issue, a by-product. My advice would be enjoy your pain, treasure it, then watch the weight thing just fall right into line.

[BEST45CAL]

I've been recently watching Spike TV's Ultimate Fighter series which has gotten me motivated to get back those little squares on my abs again, which I never really lost but just needed a bit more carving. And plus, I want to start fighting again because I really do enjoy kicking people's ass. Losing weight is a side-issue, a by-product. My advice would be enjoy your pain, treasure it, then watch the weight thing just fall right into line.

Yepper...pain is good and good for you. I welcome and coddle what most people find intolerable when it comes to pain. I think I damaged that part of my brain in a series of car crashes and nightly rabbit punches from the missus during deep R.E.M. sleep.

However, when people see that you are in shape, they won't want to fight. lol

[Rink]

Well found out the results of the tests, no probs with diabetes, but they do say my cholesterol is up some.

So thats a good thing yea :thumb:

[BEST45CAL]

Well found out the results of the tests, no probs with diabetes, but they do say my cholesterol is up some.

So thats a good thing yea :thumb:

Thank goodness you're free of diabetes.

[Rink]

My cholestreol level on the chart they gave me was 227

I dunno all these fancy things but theres different kinds of cholesterols listed here

Triglycerides
Cholesterol, total
HDL Cholesterol
LDL Cholesterol
Chol/HDLC ratio

the only two that are high is the Cholesterol. total and the LDL Cholesterol (142)

Dont ask me I have absolutely no idea what these mean.

[BEST45CAL]

My cholestreol level on the chart they gave me was 227

I dunno all these fancy things but theres different kinds of cholesterols listed here

Triglycerides
Cholesterol, total
HDL Cholesterol
LDL Cholesterol
Chol/HDLC ratio

the only two that are high is the Cholesterol. total and the LDL Cholesterol (142)

Dont ask me I have absolutely no idea what these mean.

Those numbers actually look pretty good, Rink. A high HDL number is good. A low LDL number is good, too.

I don't know your triglyceride levels, but low triglyceride levels are good.

Cholesterol Information (http://heart.healthcentersonline.com/cholesterol/cholesterol.cfm)

[Rink]

This is what the levels are:

Triglycerides - - - - - 104(N)
Cholesterol, total - - - 227(H)
HDL Cholesterol - - - - 64(N)
LDL Cholesterol - - - - 142(H)
Chol/HDLC ratio - - - - 3.5(N)

=============================================

Now another question, wouyld eating nuts like as in trail-mix nuts instead of the fattening foods I have been leaning towards be better for me?

Like having something of a trail mix of a mixed nuts type to nibble on during the day and (night) be better for me cholesterol-wise than the foods I am currently munching on (which is starchy foods)???

Just wonderin.

[BEST45CAL]

Having high cholesterol means having high fat content of the blood.

Cholesterol comes form two sources: Your body (it's made in the liver) and the food you eat.

There is no cholesterol in vegetables.

Cholesterol comes from animal sources. There isn't any cholesterol in the trail mix if there's no animal or dairy products mixed in it.

If this is the case, I'd say the trail mix is fine, but you may have to cut down on the eggs, cheese, and meat, etc.

To reduce cholesterol:

1. Reduce the intake of animal and dairy products.

2. Limit smoking and drinking.

3. Exercise.

4. Use supplements, such as green barley or garlic, calcium, lecithin (phosphatidyl choline), vitamin B and C.

Another thing to look for is saturated fat content in foods. High saturated fat content in foods is also associated with high cholesterol in the blood. (Saturated fats may be found in coconut and palm oils, not just animal and dairy sources.)

The lower the saturated fat, the better. 0% is of course, perfect, but when your daily total intake gets above 20%, then that's considered high.

[Rink]

Dont smoke, and barely drink, I've found Beer and I just isnt mixing very well anymore, seems when I drink beer my BP goes up for some reason (why I dunno).

Love a beer after a good meal but thats becoming far and few inbetween here anymore cuz of that prob.

And thanks on the idea of the trail mix.

Thinking of changing my eating habits during the day, as I have this tendency to eat starchy foods during the day, if I dont I get terrible hungry and get headaches, so I think instead of starchy foods I would nibble and piece on trail mix nuts and other stuff that is less fattening.

I AM though a butter-nut of unparralelled proportions, I ADOR butter, load it on my spuds like no other lol sorry I just love butter.

*sighs* guess that has to change some, maybe less spuds than I used to eat?

I am planning on starting some sort of exercise program of some sort, possibly just walking around my neighborhood or somethin. (the road to my house a dead-end cul-de-sac is mighty steep but I'm willin to try it as a start.)

[BEST45CAL]

Dont smoke, and barely drink, I've found Beer and I just isnt mixing very well anymore, seems when I drink beer my BP goes up for some reason (why I dunno).

Love a beer after a good meal but thats becoming far and few inbetween here anymore cuz of that prob.

And thanks on the idea of the trail mix.

Thinking of changing my eating habits during the day, as I have this tendency to eat starchy foods during the day, if I dont I get terrible hungry and get headaches, so I think instead of starchy foods I would nibble and piece on trail mix nuts and other stuff that is less fattening.

I AM though a butter-nut of unparralelled proportions, I ADOR butter, load it on my spuds like no other lol sorry I just love butter.

*sighs* guess that has to change some, maybe less spuds than I used to eat?

I am planning on starting some sort of exercise program of some sort, possibly just walking around my neighborhood or somethin. (the road to my house a dead-end cul-de-sac is mighty steep but I'm willin to try it as a start.)

Sorta sounds as if all ya need to do is cut out the beer-n-butta. Try something different like a butta substitute. We use Brummel & Brown spread and that "I Can't Believe It's Not Butter" (http://www.brummelandbrown.com/) spray. Both are good on baked potatoes and made by the same company. We don't miss butta at all. NO MARGARINE!

As for the increase in BP...click here (http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3030243)

The American Heart Association recommends that if you drink alcohol, do so in moderation, i.e, no more than to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. But the association cautions that people should NOT start drinking if they do not already drink alcohol.

:thumb:

[Jim Sentry]

Weigh in day was today. I've lost 10lbs in the first month and am down to 195. That's a long way to 148.

I'm also walking 3 miles every AM on the local walking track.

Disappointed in these results but maybe next will be better.

[Warlady]

Jim good for you!!! I can't weigh myself because my scale is packed up in a box somewhere in the garage along with the rest of our possessions as we are remodeling our entire house. (The carpenters kicked us out.)

[BEST45CAL]

Weigh in day was today. I've lost 10lbs in the first month and am down to 195. That's a long way to 148.

I'm also walking 3 miles every AM on the local walking track.

Disappointed in these results but maybe next will be better.

10 pounds is a lot to lose in 1 month! That's 120 pounds a year.

At your current rate, you'll be at your goal in less than 5 months!

This is no time for disappointment.

You may not have lost the amount of weight you wanted to initially lose, but you still lost a lot! Congrats!:thumb: :claps:

[Melz]

Definitely congrats to you! Please don't be disappointed with those results, it is very impressive and should be motivating to you !!!

I have changed my eating ways and am doing great with that will power. I still have yet to step on a scale though. Honestly I am not so concerned with it, I want to notice it without it even concerning actual weight, if that makes any sense.

[PatrioticAmerican]

Jim, you lost 10 lbs! That IS great. Keep it up. You will reach your goal. You won't if you stop, so DON'T STOP. You will do it!

[Geoffrey20005]

Well, I know that it is a little against the 'diet' part of the thread, but this might make a few of you laugh...

In my birthday suit I weigh about 156, and I had kept weighing in at that. I have started a diet of breakfast of a protein shake, lots of food during the day (trying to carb-load) and I also bought some of the Boost protein drinks. After about a week on this diet, it seems that I have gained almost a pound and a half (yay!) Seems like some of that bulk is coming on, too... either that or I am just imiganing it.

It seems to be working, so I will keep it up and keep you posted.

-Geo

[Teenager]

Hey Jim, nice going. That's impressive. 10 lbs a month is actually a very good rate, IMHO.


Geoffrey, I'm kinda like you. I weigh 160 and I'm 6"2. I'm trying(well, in my mind, anyways :)) to gain weight as well.

[Geoffrey20005]

Teen, I still top you by a few inches :)

All you can do is carb-load like crazy. Eat a lot of extra protein and carbs, and it will help. Hit the gym regularly also, and that will help build up the muscle mass with the extra food you are ingesting.

-Geoffrey

[Teenager]

How tall ARE you, Geffrey?

Hmmm, carbs. . . like pasta and stuff?

[Geoffrey20005]

Teen, add another couple inches... 6'4". If you think being -'2 is bad... try it taller ;) Just more doorways your head will hit.

Pasta is good for carbs, so are breads, potatoes, pastries.

A good source for protein is meat, eggs...

The thing you need to do to gain weight at this moment is literally 'flood' your body with carbs and proteins. Your high metabolism is, for lack of a better word, used to the amount of protein and carbs that you currently eat. To gain weight, you need to just about double your intake, and that will put extra carbs and proteins on your body. The reason why it is important to also work out while you do this is because the extra food can turn into excess body fat if there isn't anyplace on your body it needs to go. By working out you are creating muscles that require the sugars (from the carbs) that you will ingest.

Thats why I like the little Boost shakes... 8 ounces that tastes mostly like chocolate pudding ( I have heard the vanilla is awful) and it has 41g of carbs, 10g of protein.

-Geoffrey

[Teenager]

Ok Geoffrey, so as long as I keep playing a lot of tennis and keep running, and eat all those carbs and proteins, I'm fine, right?

[BEST45CAL]

Well, I know that it is a little against the 'diet' part of the thread, but this might make a few of you laugh...

In my birthday suit I weigh about 156, and I had kept weighing in at that. I have started a diet of breakfast of a protein shake, lots of food during the day (trying to carb-load) and I also bought some of the Boost protein drinks. After about a week on this diet, it seems that I have gained almost a pound and a half (yay!) Seems like some of that bulk is coming on, too... either that or I am just imiganing it.

It seems to be working, so I will keep it up and keep you posted.

-Geo

Cool!

As for eating, eat a lot more than usual. Eat at least 6 times a day. Eight would be ideal for gaining weight. Make breakfast your biggest meal of the day.

Eat more calories than you burn. This is essential for gaining weight.

Note: You will put on a little fat. It's unavoidable, but don't freak out. It will come off.

[Geoffrey20005]

Pretty much, Teen, that is the essence of it all. As long as you work out (never over-work when you are trying to gain weight, that will burn way too many carbs. Also, try and take a day off between each day you work out, allowing time for your muscles to re-build)

Best45cal, I try to eat as much as possible, but my school interferes with that. I don't have any classes that allow food in class, so I must eat betwenn (3 mins)

-Geo

[Longhorn_Platinum]

Jim Sentry:
Weigh in day was today. I've lost 10lbs in the first month and am down to 195. That's a long way to 148.

:moo: Last May, the doctor's office weighed me at 230. I don't have access to a reliable scale, but my bathroom scales, which are close, are now showing me between 190 & 195. Over 35 lbs. down, & another 20 to go. I'll probably be working thru dinner (in my vernacular, that's the noon meal) every day until the Thanksgiving holidays.

[BEST45CAL]

:moo: Last May, the doctor's office weighed me at 230. I don't have access to a reliable scale, but my bathroom scales, which are close, are now showing me between 190 & 195. Over 35 lbs. down, & another 20 to go. I'll probably be working thru dinner (in my vernacular, that's the noon meal) every day until the Thanksgiving holidays.

Great news, Longhorn!

Keep up the excellent work!:thumb:

[PatrioticAmerican]

Okay, roll call. How's everyone doing on their diets? I'm down seven pounds.

[UhUhNoWay]

202.2 which is down 1.2 lbs and yes that point two COUNTS! LOL I'm on the right track, slow and steady wins the race...and a loss is not a gain! I was beginning to think that the scale was never going to move down again.:smirky:

Edit 201.0 down 2.4lbs yay!

[Jim Sentry]

My next weigh-in is scheduled for 10/8. My goal is lose another 10 and be down to 185.

[Peachdiane]

Hi all!

dP and I have been working out every day for 2-3 hours. First we hit the cardio 10 mins and then do the weights 2-3 sets, 12 reps each. Then, we finish off with cardio 10-15 mins. Doing this without supplements and just trying to continue to eat healthier.

I think I'm gonna switch to alternating days for legs vs. arms workout. Today will be legs for me. Wish me luck! :)

[BEST45CAL]

Okay, roll call. How's everyone doing on their diets? I'm down seven pounds.

Nice work, PA!

Keep it up!:claps:

[BEST45CAL]

My next weigh-in is scheduled for 10/8. My goal is lose another 10 and be down to 185.

Good luck, J!:thumb:

[BEST45CAL]

Hi all!

dP and I have been working out every day for 2-3 hours. First we hit the cardio 10 mins and then do the weights 2-3 sets, 12 reps each. Then, we finish off with cardio 10-15 mins. Doing this without supplements and just trying to continue to eat healthier.

I think I'm gonna switch to alternating days for legs vs. arms workout. Today will be legs for me. Wish me luck! :)

Sounds good, Peach!

Cheers to you and dP!:thumb:

[BEST45CAL]

202.2 which is down 1.2 lbs and yes that point two COUNTS! LOL I'm on the right track, slow and steady wins the race...and a loss is not a gain! I was beginning to think that the scale was never going to move down again.:smirky:

Edit 201.0 down 2.4lbs yay!

Yay is right! Great job!:thumb:

[Longhorn_Platinum]

:moo: PeachDiane, when I was a truck driver, I put a couple of dumbbells in the sidebox, so I'd have them to work out with on the road. I could do bench press & curls, using a corner of my flatbed trailer, if it was empty, or I had a load that didn't take up the whole trailer, or I could use a table at a picnic areä. (Just keep a low profile, & watch out for certain people, if you get my drift.) I used the hexagon dumbbells, so they wouldn't roll around in the sidebox. I still have a set of dumbbells, & I still work out with them.

[Longhorn_Platinum]

Jim Sentry:
My next weigh-in is scheduled for 10/8. My goal is lose another 10 and be down to 185.

:moo: My bathroom scales are now edging between 190 & 189.

[BEST45CAL]

How is everyone doing on their diets? "Beastie" wants to know.

[UhUhNoWay]

Still Plugging along, @ 200.4 now (minus 3.2) which isn't a giant loss, but it is not a gain, so I'm cool with it. Slow N Steady! 1.4 pounds til my doctor's goal for me LOL and I've since edited my original goal...now I am just shooting for 180...when I get there, I'll revisit the 150 goal LOL slow N steady...eventually right?

[BEST45CAL]

Still Plugging along, @ 200.4 now (minus 3.2) which isn't a giant loss, but it is not a gain, so I'm cool with it. Slow N Steady! 1.4 pounds til my doctor's goal for me LOL and I've since edited my original goal...now I am just shooting for 180...when I get there, I'll revisit the 150 goal LOL slow N steady...eventually right?

Slow and steady is good. I'm happy that you're doing so well. Keep up the great work!:claps:

[Longhorn_Platinum]

:moo: I seem to be holding steady for the time being. I'd like to lose another 20 pounds, where I'd be perfectly skinny, but at least I'm not obese. I'm clinicly obese, according to those hospital charts, but I can squeeze into size 33 jeans.

[Peachdiane]

Congrats dude! I feel the same. I'd like to lose but I'm not gaining, so that's positive. :)

[dPrasse]

How is everyone doing on their diets? "Beastie" wants to know.

Well , Peach and I have been hitting the gym and watching our food for a month now .... Peach looks so hot ! :D

I've dropped from my high of 218 down to a steady 190 ...
my 36" jeans can slip over my hips and if I "suck it in" , I can get into my 34s !

Another 10lbs and then I'll be happy ... then I'll be "buffing" up !

[UhUhNoWay]

Clinically schminically...if you can walk down the street and no one gawks or hollers out some fat related insult, you're 'normal' and the rest of it is just splitting hairs. When I 'pause' at a weight, I try to look at it, as my body 'resetting' the metabolism, and try not to freak out. I usually 'reset' most of the month...then drop a couple pounds...and reset, this resetting business is tedious, but as long as it continues to go down rather than up, I'm ok.
If I get jeans by waist size they never fit, because chicks have hips and those waist sizes don't account for hips and junk in the trunk LOL Blessed is thee who invented stretch denim!

[dPrasse]

Today will be legs for me. Wish me luck! :)

everyday is "leg" day !! :whistle:

[dPrasse]

because chicks have hips

you'll never hear me complain ! :D

women without hips look like guys ... :hahaha:

[Jim Sentry]

I lost only 3 pounds my second month and was sorely disappointed.

On 10/8 I was 192. On 11/8 I better be 182 or below or else.

Jerk of a Dr told me because of my age my metabolism is slowing down.

[BEST45CAL]

Hey Jim, Keep your head up!

It's also possible that if you're active, you're losing fat but gaining muscle. A good way to find out is to measure yourself, not just weigh yourself. Sounds like you're getting "pumped up" and don't realize it.:thumb:

[Jim Sentry]

Thanks BEST45

It just pisses me off that everymorning I walk 3 miles on the track, have given up drinking except when we go out or have company and have totally eliminated junk food.

I'll check back on Nov 8, unfortunately though I'll going to NYC 11/2 - 11/6 it will be impossible to forgo some real Italian Food.

[BEST45CAL]

Thanks BEST45

It just pisses me off that everymorning I walk 3 miles on the track, have given up drinking except when we go out or have company and have totally eliminated junk food.

I'll check back on Nov 8, unfortunately though I'll going to NYC 11/2 - 11/6 it will be impossible to forgo some real Italian Food.

Have a great trip! See you soon.:thumb:

[UhUhNoWay]

Thanks BEST45

It just pisses me off that everymorning I walk 3 miles on the track, have given up drinking except when we go out or have company and have totally eliminated junk food.

I'll check back on Nov 8, unfortunately though I'll going to NYC 11/2 - 11/6 it will be impossible to forgo some real Italian Food. Mmm Italian food! for what it's worth, most authentic Italian food is pretty healthy...you'll be fine, as long as you be careful with portions. Have a great trip!

[Teenager]

I still weigh 160, as always:).

[Eagle1]

i had the greatest diet, it worked 100% and was garunteed to get you to your goal.

it was called iowa high school wrestling.

summer pants: 36-32
winter pants: 30-32

[Peachdiane]

Mmm Italian food! for what it's worth, most authentic Italian food is pretty healthy...you'll be fine, as long as you be careful with portions. Have a great trip!

And a little red wine couldn't hurt, to help burn those calories no? ;)

[UhUhNoWay]

I keeping hearing that about moderate amounts of wine being good for you, but, I have no clue about wine etc so I am always afraid I'll buy something blechy and end up making the sour pickle face when I drink it and shudder like chester cheeto.

[dPrasse]

Try Lambrusco ... yumm !:drunk:

Is Plum Brandy good for the veins ?
Sure is good for "attitude" ! :grin:

[BEST45CAL]

Some damn good advice here. Keep up the great work! That's an order! LOL

[TechnoPrincess]

I keeping hearing that about moderate amounts of wine being good for you, but, I have no clue about wine etc so I am always afraid I'll buy something blechy and end up making the sour pickle face when I drink it and shudder like chester cheeto.

Be careful with wine though, it often has a high sugar content, which could cause tummy problems due to your surgery. My friend has that problem with it.

BTW - how ya doin' weight wise sis?

[UhUhNoWay]

198 Yay!! Finally in "oneville" that's what...5.4 down...slow and steady yay!
I don't generally drink any alcohol...I think the wine thing, I would have more issues with the sulfides or sulfites or whatever those 'suls' are in wine...I think I remember wine makin me wheeze...Sugar isn't an issue with me, unless you count stinky gas an issue LOLOL

[TechnoPrincess]

198 Yay!! Finally in "oneville" that's what...5.4 down...slow and steady yay!
I don't generally drink any alcohol...I think the wine thing, I would have more issues with the sulfides or sulfites or whatever those 'suls' are in wine...I think I remember wine makin me wheeze...Sugar isn't an issue with me, unless you count stinky gas an issue LOLOL

LOL! Well you'd fit in with the boys in your house then ;)

[UhUhNoWay]

Oh honey..once a month when us ladies, need to self medicate with chocolate, I can't stand myself...which is just as well because lately here PMS has become a 3 day event and if the moodiness doesn't frighten them off, the stench will. 3 days a month I am on self imposed hiatus from the family. Good thing my pets, don't mind...I mean after all...the sniff butts for fun! LOLOL

[TechnoPrincess]

Oh honey..once a month when us ladies, need to self medicate with chocolate, I can't stand myself...which is just as well because lately here PMS has become a 3 day event and if the moodiness doesn't frighten them off, the stench will. 3 days a month I am on self imposed hiatus from the family. Good thing my pets, don't mind...I mean after all...the sniff butts for fun! LOLOL

:hahaha: :hahaha: :hahaha:

Sweetie - Thanks for the good laugh...I really needed it today!!
*HUGS*

[UhUhNoWay]

Am I the only one still plugging along?!? 193.8 now.....9.4 total I think...too lazy to go to the beginning and check....plenty more where those came from. I might actually have to break a sweat or something to finish this business once and for all...unfortunately...I am firmly committed to laziness. I need some kind of active hobby to trick me into exercising by accident.

[Longhorn_Platinum]

:unsmile: I've been holding steady for the past month & a half. I got tired of starving, but at least I'm not gaining. With the holidays ahead, I doubt that I'll lose anything for awhile. Although, I'll resume trying to reduce, after January 1. I want to be in size 32 jeans before my 50th birthday.

[PatrioticAmerican]

200 lbs. now. I started doing 90 sit ups per day (45 in morning, 45 at night). My gut is killing me!!! But I feel GOOD. No back pain, less appetite, feel leaner...

[dPrasse]

Still 195 .... must be my official "new weight" ....

[Rink]

Well it looks like I've dropped 5 pounds, give two weeks max on being sick (the flu) and running around all the time, driving Semis, and doin practice backups with them (with terribly stiff clutches) and doin 5th Wheel hookup and unhooking (putting the landing gears up and down Really puts a person into a good sweat!)

Then drop on the food comsumption (not as many hamburgers or fatty foods, and Yea I dropped the pounds.

Workin on eating more healthier, gimme time on that one.

Am busy that I am!

Get up at 4:20am, run in to Clackamas, OR (50 miles in) then do the work in the yard (tractor-trailer) at 6am for the rest of the day (till 15 mins before 11am) then at 11:30am go out, do truck inspections (Pre-Trip Inspections), then drive the truck around town from noon to 4:30pm, then drive back home that 50 miles.

My plate is Definitely Full up and active as can be!!!

And its been good for me, I'm sore & tired but I KNOW I'm more active (not sitting here at the puter all day long) and keeping active all day from 4am to 7pm every day.

Got two more weeks of this then I 'graduate'

Wish me luck.

(one thing to note, before I started this school I had weighed myself and was at 165-66 lbs)

[Jim Sentry]

I gained 4 lbs during my recent trip to NYC. Can't resist real Italian Food.

I'll probably not be able to lose any real weight until the Christmas and New Year's over. BTW for those ultra liberals among us that means the Holidays or whatever you want to call it.

[UhUhNoWay]

Just a speed bump...you'll have 10-11 months to recapture your momentum after the holidays Jim...only 4 isn't bad considering Authentic Italian...I'm sure I gain just watching Italian cooking shows on television...so only 4 pounds from actually eating it is ahead of the game!

[Antigone]

I am down 9 pounds so far. At least until I got sick. I gave myself free reign to eat whatever I needed to feel better. The carbs and sodium in chicken noodle soup is a killer!! And orange juice...YIKES!

I have been walking in the morning and watching what I eat. I was going to start doing some more workouts in the afternoon, but after getting sick and having it get into my lungs, I didn't have the breathing capacity needed to do anything more than walk around the house before I was out of breath. Now that I am starting to feel better, back to the old grind!!!

Like Jim, I too will have a hard time over the holidays. There are some things I just am not going to deprive myself of. I'll probably cut the portion down to a few bites, but I'm not giving it up. Just try and take my peach schnapps liquor cake away from me and see what happens! :grin:

[Peachdiane]

At the gym, there are Lifecircuit machines that are computerized. The exerciser just puts in the amount of weight to exert. We were using those for a month and half along with cardio.

Then we got a great deal on a personal trainer with buddy/buddy system. She told us we need MORE cardio (ack) with free weights in the basement and exercise ball work. I think she prefers those over the computerized machines. Needless to say we have been sore but it's been fun trying out a system that fits us best. We've been working out every day since September 14 with just 3 days off (including today).

I have a sweet tooth and am really bad with the holidays too. I just need the willpower to eat in moderation... Glad you're feeling better Antigone. :)