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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 15 February 2007 04:43 am |
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I want to lose some weight and be more physically fit. I would like to be more youthful and I beleive that exercise really helps people with the whole "fountain of youth" thing. However...
Exercise has never really been fun for me.  I think that I am mostly a happy, positive person, but normal like anyone else there are days that I feel down.
I thought maybe I could try posting on this weight loss forum and it would help motivate me to reach my goal.
Right now my goal is to weigh 140 lbs. by June. I now weigh 148 lbs. I am trying to make my goal reasonable and doable because I don't like to feel pressured or restrained and I don't want to feel like a failure so I think it should be reasonable to reach my goal of 140 lbs by June.
I do have a slow metabolism. It seems to be getting worse over the years. I am a 37 yr. old mom of 5. I probably should have my thyroid checked, but I hate taking prescription meds and I hate going to the doctor. I do have cold hands and feet, my body temp is always low.
For the past couple of weeks I have been exercising to a pilates video, and substituting one or two meals 4-5 days a week with slim fast shakes, but the scale hasn't budged.
I am trying a new supplement called DIM to see if it can help me. We shall see...
I take :
thyroid essentials supplement from Swansons
200 mg DIM
sometimes I drink Yerbe Mate tea, but also sometimes it gives me an upset stomach
I am doing my pilates video and will start walking when life is not as busy and it warms up some. Probably in about 2 weeks
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Hisgal
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 16 February 2007 12:18 am |
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Welcome to the  forums, Sassykat!
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 16 February 2007 05:36 am |
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Thank you for the welcome Hisgal. This seems like a super neat forum.
Today I ate lunch at school with my 6 yr old son and while I was eating the hot lunch off one of those plastic divided trays, I realized that I have been trained by my parents to "clean my plate" eat all of my food and not waste it and that is exactly what I have been doing all these years. Whether or not I am hungry or full, I finish my food. I have never really been conscious of this before, but now that I am trying to figure out why I am carrying this extra weight around, I want to stop my bad habits. This means trying to wrap my brain around each issue that is affecting me. Even my husband tells me to finish my food. From now on I need to eat only until I am satisfied and if it means tossing the rest, it's better than wearing it on my hips and developing health problems.
Didn't get a chance to exercise today, but that's ok, it was my son's birthday and I helped in the classroom a half day at the school.
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Hisgal
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 20 February 2007 12:23 am |
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I realized that I have been trained by my parents to "clean my plate" eat all of my food and not waste it and that is exactly what I have been doing all these years. Whether or not I am hungry or full, I finish my food.
Exactly! Why is that? Why did they do that to us? You heard the "starving kids in Africa" line too?
I am finally learning, that when I go out to a restaurant, I should eat half of my meal (which probably closer to 1 real serving anyway) and ask for a box to take the rest home.
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Hootmom
Member
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Posted: 21 February 2007 04:43 am |
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Many of us grew up with waste not want not. So, one of my new mantras: Don't eat it & it will go to waste, eat it & it will go to"my" waist.
Welcome to . You have made a good choice. Read the tutorials - anduse the calculators - and you'll be on your way to a healthier you!!!
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Peter
Founder, caloriesperhour.com
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Posted: 24 February 2007 09:53 am |
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Hisgal wrote: I am finally learning, that when I go out to a restaurant, I should eat half of my meal (which probably closer to 1 real serving anyway) and ask for a box to take the rest home.
When I used to go out to big business lunches, when I was served my meal I would sit quietly and look at my plate and decide what I was going to eat and what I was going to leave. From then on, there was no fussing over it and I could enjoy my meal.
More than once when I did this others at the table would see me being quite and looking down and hush everyone else up... thinking I was praying.
I guess in a way I was. 
Peter
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 27 February 2007 03:50 am |
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Hey guys thanks for your posts! I really appreciate your sympathizing.
I've decided that my life style is totally sabotaging my health.  I think we could talk forever on portions, being taught to clean our plates, everywhere we turn is pressure and when the pressure is not the case then it is the busyness. Rushing around all the time and eating what's convenient. No time for exercise, no time to prepare meals, no time to watch portions, count calories or even get on the computer to log the junk food that I ate.  That's how life has been mostly.
But today, actually I joined the self challenge and so I really watched what I ate, wrote it down, and got my exercise in. I was home though, so when I have to be about and running errands, it's a different story.
My goal is to get down to 140 lbs by the end of May - Wish me luck! More like, Pray for me! I know, you're already doing that when you are sitting quietly over your meal, but have send a good thought in my direction.
I am badly out of shape, I may not seem overly overweight, but my health isn't great and I've led an extremely sedentary life for a long time, 8 years or so. That is why I need the prayers. What I really need is some military bootcamp to motivate me, heck I haven't even been motivated in 8 yrs. It is sad!
7:00 AM cup of coffee with milk and sugar 60 cal
8:00 am protein shake 190 cal
11:50 am lunch meat & cheese sandwhich 340 cal carrots 25 cal
1:00pm cup of coffee with non dairy creamer and 1 tsp hot chocolate 40 cal
655
5:00 PM home made taco 250 cal
250
5:30 PM Ate another home made taco drank water all day
275
Total calories for the day so far is - 1180
I also walked about 1 & 3/5 mile about 40 min.
And did 8 min pilates for thighs
I joined the Self challenge from the Self magazine to help with motivation.
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 28 February 2007 02:19 am |
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As far as diet and exercise, I am having a below average day.
I went for my walk and the wind was blowing and my contact lenses were bothering me, so I only went half way and had to head back home, couldn't wait to get in the door and take out my contact lense and wash it!
So far today have had
cup of coffee with non dairy creamer and nutrasweet instead of sugar about 20 cal
protein shake with extra protein powder 302 cal
2 tacos at taco bell for lunch because I had errands to do 440 cal
1 filled long john probably about 260 cal
pizza for dinner 460 cal
this leaves me at... 1482 cal for the day
My husband who I recently got to join this forum, and I are trying to get a grip on our eating habits and get in better shape.
After locating some of the calculator features on this forum (though still haven't thoroughly checked things out) I actually feel I might be able to do this!
bad news is, I think I am getting sick and it is suppose to snow over the next several days.
But there is something going on in my brain right now...A realization I guess of why I have been putting on weight and how so many calories are lurking secretively in all of the convenience foods that have become so much a part of our lives. We have 5 kids and there are always so many things going on, and stress too...Now that I am checking out the calories, I am shocked. Well enough said, overall I do feel I can make a change. Awareness should help a lot I am guessing.
Any suggestions, or tips, or tricks are welcome!
I should be losing some weight if I keep my calories under 1500 right?
Last edited on 28 February 2007 04:15 am by Sassykat
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Hootmom
Member
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Posted: 28 February 2007 05:29 am |
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Sassyket,
You are 37 yr old, weigh 148 pounds. Did you figure your RMR? If so, what is it? Or what is your height? It would be easier to give you info about your calories with that info. It sure is enlightening when you realize how many calories are in fast food and junk food, isn't it? I wish I had started making healthier choices when my children were young. I admire you for trying to start a healthier lifestyle. I know it is hard with trying to raise kids - and just keeping up day to day - without having to learn a new way to eat. I know you will able to figure ways to incorporate healthy eating into your lifestyle. We are here and will help you where we can!!!
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 28 February 2007 09:58 pm |
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Hey there Hootmom! Thank you so much for your encouragement. Yes, it is very hard with a large family and trying to spend some extra time on myself eating differently and trying to fit in exercise. It's hard enough as it is just trying to be a good parent in this world we live in, but I love my family so much, the rewards are worth it. And the kids should be eating healthier too. And I do not want diabetes or any other health problems so I need to get on the ball and take this seriously.
My RMR is 1353 calories. I am 5'.5" and I am still ticked off at being disillusioned over the whole "calorie conspiracy" (just joking)
Yeah, I just never realized that so many foods have quite a few calories lurking in them. I have been an unsuspecting american citizen. I told my husband that when they give you your receipt at a restaurant (we were at Taco Bell at the time- one of my favorites) they should give you two receipts, one for the money and one for the calories.
I am sick today, got a cold/flue from my son and it is snowing, so I am just going to skip the exercise for a bit. My husband brought me home a subway sandwhich for lunch. Calories listed were 480. I didn't eat all of it however, my husband finished it for me and then...! He didn't want to take responsibility for those extra calories! We finally came to an agreement that I ate 400 calories worth of the sandwhich and he took credit for 80 calories worth.
So this puts me at:
cup of coffee w/ nutrasweet, & milk 30 cal
protein shake 220 cal
lunch: subway sandwhich 400cal
diet green tea 0 cal
for now, will total the rest later, after consuming more food!I just love this chomping emoticon for some reason. Maybe watching it gives me some satisfaction of eating subconsciously, or it's just cute!
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SmallerMe
Senior Member
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Posted: 28 February 2007 10:55 pm |
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Hi there SassyKat, I sure understand juggling family and your own health I think I had too much fun raising my kids lol I ate what they ate  but they are all very healthy and fit .. no fair..lol
I found it comforting to know exactly what I will eat so I plan my meals the night before.. there's a counter on this site.. I think when we become aware of the calories, we are able to make winning choices. Not being aware means simply plopping stuff in your mouth and wondering where all this weight came from If you could plan your day and eat what you planned I think it's a road to successful weight loss. I try to be precise so I'll grab the box and add it's calories to the food list so I know it is accurate. My hubby cracks up when he comes in and see's cereal, bread, crackers and even a jug of milk sitting with me while on my laptop!
It's a good idea too if you checked the fast food sites to get the exact calories.. Wow thankfully you only want to lose a few pounds it's a longer road for some of us so we need to use any tools we can get our hands on to out smart our bodies
Hey let me know when you hit the mark so I can celebrate with you!
~SmallerMeLast edited on 28 February 2007 11:35 pm by
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 28 February 2007 11:43 pm |
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Thank you SmallerMe.
Yes, I know, I am lucky if I can catch myself now, before I get heavier and it becomes more of a challenge. It's so easy to put on. Obesity runs in my family on my mother's side. Don't know if it's genetic or not, but most of the women are carrying lots of extra weight on my mother's side. A couple of years ago I weighed 175lbs. Then got down to 135 and put on enough to get me back up to 148 lbs. I can't take credit for the weight loss though. I took Prozac and Zoloft for many years (like about 12-13) and when I went off of it I had horrible withdrawals. I was prescribed Xanax, became addicted to that. Took it for 2 months and had even worse withdrawals from that. I lost weight throwing up and with tremors and shakes, couldn't sleep, it was horrible. Took me a good year or more to feel normal again.
The Zoloft was making me very ill. I felt like I had cancer. I was extrememly out of shape, couldn't even go for a walk down the road, because I was out of breath, had lots of pain...
I feel much better now, but I am still out of shape. It is still hard for me to lose weight and I can't do a lot of stuff I use to be able to do. Ideally I should probably weigh 125, but for now my goal is to get to 140 and get some of my health back. I can't run more than a few yards. I would like to be able to run a couple of miles. I would like to see a task before me and think, "No problem." instead of feeling overwhelmed.
So, my long term goal is more than losing just a few pounds. I am starting with a short term goal, because that is what I can handle emotionaly so I won't feel overwhelmed, but really the 140 wouldn't be the end of the road for me. Don't be envious if I have less weight to lose, (just in case you were considering envy) I am in very poor shape health wise. And flabby too. Somehow I woke up with my mom's flabby arms and lots of wrinkles around my eyes.
Honestly, I hate to fuss over calories and food and...anything in life. I am a practical person who likes to focus on what's important - my family. But if it is possible to get in better shape, I think I will give it a try!
By the way I found it amusing picturing you sitting in a chair with all your groceries keeping you company! lol That just means you are working hard to accomplish your goal. I am proud of you doing your research.
Best wishes!
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 1 March 2007 09:40 pm |
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This cold is really taking over my life right now.  I've decided to try and calculate the amount of calories I need to consume to lose weight. Right now I don't know what that amount is. Would it be the RMR? I really don't have much muscle at all so I think my metabolism runs slower than most peoples. It doesn't seem to matter if I eat less, I still don't really show a weight loss.
I will write my daily foods and calories in a pocket journal and write down any exercise. Haven't been able to exercise as I am sick and feel very low on energy. Hopefully next week I can get my daily walks back in, it is suppose to warm up and be nice next week.
In the mean time I am still trying to stay in a good range calorie wise.
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StuckSara
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 1 March 2007 10:39 pm |
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| I think you should eat just a little over your RMR if you're sedentary (since you have a cold right now you probably are). Then when you get into exercising use the activity adjustments to figure out how many calories you should be eatting. Do you know where I'm talking about? It's at the bottom of the page under "Calories burned, bmi, bmr & rmr calculator".
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 2 March 2007 01:16 am |
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Thank you StuckSara! Yeah, I know in general where the calculators are, just need to get more familiar with them. I have played around with them a bit though. If those figures are what my body actually burns then to lose weight don't I need to be consuming less than what it is burning?
I can't wait to get over this cold! My eyes are watery, nose is itchy, sneezing constantly. Going through kleenex like crazy! It's hard to feel motivated when all I want to do is take a nap.
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Nir
Senior Administrator
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Posted: 2 March 2007 03:01 am |
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Sassykat wrote: If those figures are what my body actually burns then to lose weight don't I need to be consuming less than what it is burning?
Yes. You figure out the 'maintenance' number that corresponds to your activity level. You then take off 15% (multiply the number by 0.85) to get the ideal number of calories to eat for fat loss.
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Hootmom
Member
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Posted: 2 March 2007 03:31 am |
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Sassykat,
1353 is your unadjusted RMR. Then you multiply by an activity factor of 1.2 (for Sedentary) - you would have an RMR of 1623.6. So, if I understand all this correctly - to lose body fat you'd go 15 to 20% less than that. So - you should consume about 1299 - 1380 calories a day to lose weight. (You should never go below your unadjusted RMR) Yes..it is a shock to learn the calories in our foods. Once you realize what the calories counts are - you are more or less "forced" to eat healthier. Well, at least if you are like me - and like to eat a lot!!! I've found that if I consume larger quantities of fruits and vegestables - I get to eat more!!!! Well, anyway, that's a starting point. If counting calories isnew to you - it may seem overwhelming at first - but, you'll get used to it and after awhile - you will already know how many calories are in your favorite things. It is important to measure and weigh as much as you can. I went to Walmart and bought an extra set of measuring spoons and cups (less than $1). That way - I always have extra on hand (in case one set is dirty). Trying to think of more tips...think, think...oh well....we are here for you!!! I hope you feel better soon!!!
Last edited on 2 March 2007 03:33 am by Hootmom
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 4 March 2007 09:18 pm |
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Thank you Nir. That was exactly what I needed to know. That is very helpful.
And you too, Hootmom, your support means a lot to me. Thank you for helping me. Years, back I have counted calories before, but not in a very long time. At first, when I tried counting the calories using this forum and the calculators and figuring it would take 23 days to lose 2 lbs on 1300 calories a day, I thought ", Jeesh! No wonder it is so hard to lose weight. The rewards are so little for so much sacrifice!"
But yesterday I was very deligent and found that I wasn't extremely miserable. I mean, we went shopping for groceries and I was starving at that point, which was bad, looking at all that food that I just wanted to eat, before I paid for anything, but I made it. I mean, honestly I would never actually eat something before I paid for it. I don't want anyone thinking I'm a thief! And I read the calories per serving on almostly everything we bought. lol That made for a long shopping trip!
Anyway, I survived shopping, survived the day, did not go to bed hungry AND when I weighed myself this morning I weighed 146.2 Hooray! So the scale is moving down and I think I can do this.
My cold is on the way out too, so I am feeling better.
Yesterday ate:
Morning:
2 cups of coffee - 60 cal
protein shake -220 cal
Lunch:
Grilled cheese sandwhich - 310 cal
water
Dinner:
3 regular tacos at taco bell -510 cal
w/ lots of Border sauce -0 cal (whoo hoo zero calories in border sauce!)
diet pepsi - 0 cal
Evening snack:
popcorn -60 cal
Jello cheesecake snack - 130 cal
Total: 1290
As far as the eating healthier thing goes, we all have our own opinion of "healthier eating". Some people are against dairy products, some people eat lots of soy, etc. Some people are vegans, some believe in red meat. I am eating more fruits and vegetables however and therefore getting more absorbable vitamins and antioxidants and fiber.
I myself, like a simple life, and don't like to fuss too much over food. It is more important to me to teach my children morals and to strive for a peaceful life. I also know that I don't do well telling myself that I can't have a particular food. Then I will end up eating more than ever. So for me, it is best to eat what I want, but stay in my calorie budget.
I've decided to not weigh myself again until 23 days. As long as I am not ill, I will follow my calorie budget and get in some exercise. After the 23 days, I will take a day of non calorie counting for a break. I don't believe in telling myself I get a food reward for weight loss, that just doesn't make sense. The weight loss, and muscle strengthening is reward in itself. I feel better healthwise, emotionally... I just feel happier in general. I want to be able to go hiking and not feel like the hike is going to kill me! That is an awesome reward!
Also, I have had a problem with computer addiction ever since we bought it in 99. So I won't be posting everyday. I am more active if I can limit my time on the computer. I also use it to do my work, and I am really trying to keep a healthy perspective on this.
I am so thank ful I found this forum. Before, I would eat a bit less, or try losing weight by taking walks and when I didn't lose weight I just automatically assumed something was wrong with my body. Now, I know there is a science involved and with some deligence and determination, it is possible to take control of my body again, and take control of my health.
A big thank you to whoever started this forum!
Last edited on 5 March 2007 04:23 am by Sassykat
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Nir
Senior Administrator
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Posted: 4 March 2007 11:32 pm |
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Sassykat wrote: A big thank you to whoever started this forum!
That would be Peter - read this page.
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 5 March 2007 04:18 am |
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Aaahh, that was nice, thank you Nir for sharing that. Peter, if you read this, thank you so much for the hard work you put into creating this site. I think it is wonderful. It is a great tool to help those of us who are slow on the uptake, and it also provides us with support through the forums. I do appreciate being your guest on here. And thank you for the wonderful emoticons too, especially the cute chomping one. I just loves it!
Ok! I decided to write on here what I have eaten today.
Morning:
1 cup of coffee with splenda and milk - 30 cal
Protein shake - 220 cal
4 plain M&M's (that's right only 4!) - 15 cal
Lunch:
12 stick pretzals - 25 cal
carrots - 25 cal
long sliced pickle honestly the jar says 0 cal!
sandwhich made of
bread 70 cal each slice
mirracle whip free - 20 cal
turkey lunch meat - 40 cal
low fat baby swiss cheese - 60 cal
tomato slices - 30 cal
Afternoon:
Pepsi One (with splenda not aspartame) - 1 cal
Dinner:
Baked Salmon - 120 cal
cheesey noodles - 300 cal
green beans - 20 cal
peas - 60 cal
Total so far would be - 1106 calories and I still have some calorie budget left over for a snack or dessert. I've got something in mind too... I bought some very low cal fudge bars. You can have 2 of them for only 70 calories, isn't that great?
Tomorrow I'm hoping to get some exercise in.
I am very happy to be doing this with my husband, it's nice to have company. We're in it together, and I think that helps a bunch.
Last edited on 5 March 2007 04:32 am by Sassykat
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StuckSara
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 5 March 2007 11:37 pm |
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Sassykat wrote:
And I read the calories per serving on almostly everything we bought. lol That made for a long shopping trip!
I do the same thing! I take forever to walk down a single aisle because I compare all the calories for whatever item I want. The cereal aisle takes a really long time because I look for the calories, protein, and fiber... and try to get the best combination. Good job on all the hard work! Keep it up!
Sara
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Hootmom
Member
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Posted: 6 March 2007 12:45 am |
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Sassykat wrote:
As far as the eating healthier thing goes, we all have our own opinion of "healthier eating". Some people are against dairy products, some people eat lots of soy, etc. Some people are vegans, some believe in red meat. I am eating more fruits and vegetables however and therefore getting more absorbable vitamins and antioxidants and fiber.
I myself, like a simple life, and don't like to fuss too much over food. It is more important to me to teach my children morals and to strive for a peaceful life. I also know that I don't do well telling myself that I can't have a particular food. Then I will end up eating more than ever. So for me, it is best to eat what I want, but stay in my calorie budget.
I totally agree with you!!! I personally don't advocate eliminating anything. But, maybe that is because I like to eat such a variety of things!!! But, I do think that getting more fruits and vegetables in there is good for everyone. Seems like every diet I read focuses on getting in a good amount of vegetables (even Atkins - if you really read the fine print). I'm glad that this is working for you. I just love !!!
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Nir
Senior Administrator
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Posted: 6 March 2007 03:56 am |
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Hootmom wrote: every diet I read focuses on getting in a good amount of vegetables (even Atkins - if you really read the fine print).
Glad someone else said it. Some time ago, when I started a weight loss journey in 2003 by embarking on Atkins, my trip to the grocery store included vegetables. The bottom line was that there were no vegetables in my home for some time before that shopping trip, but some afterwards. [no, I'm no longer on Atkins. It was a long time ago.]
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 29 May 2007 08:08 pm |
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Hello! I am back. I had a problem before with counting my calories. It was giving me an eating disorder. Really I was obsessing over food even more because I was thinking about it too much. How do people count every crumb and not feel deprived? I don't think I will be able to count every calorie every day.
Anyhoo I am writing on here to document my exercise and also eat healthier. I shall eat smaller portions and eat more fruits and veggies and we shall see how things go.
I know that I need to be more active all day long and eat less junk and that should help me lose weight. I've done it that way before without counting calories and I felt good emotionally and physically.
Today I weighed in at 148 lbs. I haven't been exercising at all and I have been eating all kinds of junk food and pop. Someone told me that diet pop is really bad for your brain and so I have been drinking regular pop which is loaded with sugar and calories.
Today though, I walked 2 miles, was a bit tired because I hadn't done this in such a long time, I can't even remember when it was... last summer maybe?
Anyhoo, I also have some weight loss supplements lying around and took one today to give it a try. It's called Thermadrol and has caffeine in it. I only took one and I feel like I've had a whole six pack of Pepsi. Going to go and defrost my freezer now! Might as well get some use out of being so wired! I have also been gardening and so I think I will be able to become more fit through being more active and watching my portions.
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fsahurie
Senior Member
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Posted: 29 May 2007 09:19 pm |
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Nir wrote: Hootmom wrote: every diet I read focuses on getting in a good amount of vegetables (even Atkins - if you really read the fine print).
Glad someone else said it. Some time ago, when I started a weight loss journey in 2003 by embarking on Atkins, my trip to the grocery store included vegetables. The bottom line was that there were no vegetables in my home for some time before that shopping trip, but some afterwards. [no, I'm no longer on Atkins. It was a long time ago.]
Personally, If I had to choose between chocolote and vegetables, I d take chocolate! But that doesnt mean I wouldnt eat my daily portion of vegetables to ward of disease and viruses,etc.
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 31 May 2007 09:22 pm |
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I walked two miles this morning and I have decided to give eating fruit and veggies a try.
Other than dinner, fruit and veggies have really not been a part of my life for a long time - since I was a kid really.
This seems abnormal to me, but maybe it has become more the norm for our junk food society. Usually I eat cereal (shredded wheat- the frosted kind) for breakfast, or slim fast and a sandwhich for lunch, junk food for snacks and a somewhat balanced dinner with meat of some kind, potatoes or pasta and usually canned veggies, either corn, green beans or peas etc. Sometimes things are different, like fish and salad. I do try and make fish at least once a week, though I'm not sure any of us really enjoy it. laugh.
I would like to eat healthier. I want to be healthier. The thing is, eating fruit and veggies has become foreign to me. I am such a person of habit and so trying to change is going to be hard. That is probably why I never reached my goal of getting down to 140 lbs by June in the first place.
Making small changes one step at a time has got to be the key. I get discouraged easily and I feel overwhelmed easily.
I ate a nectarine today and strangely I feel very proud of myself for that small thing. It also seems like a mirracle that I took my walk.
I have a new goal, to be more physically active, and to do much more munching on healthy foods!
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princess
New Member
| Joined: | 30 May 2007 |
| Location: | VA |
| Posts: | 22 |
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Posted: 1 June 2007 04:45 pm |
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| I know you can get down to 140.....best of luck to you.
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 11 June 2007 09:48 pm |
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I have had some frustration. I keep having problems everytime I think I will try a "diet". I read some article in a magazine about some super diet that works wonders and as soon as I decide to give it a try, I already feel deprived. I think I have control issues. I don't like anyone telling me what to do, even if they truly aren't trying to tell me what to do, but as long as I perceive them as trying to tell me what to do, then I have a problem.
I needed to buy some clothes this weekend because I am self conscious and want something decent to wear. Some of my clothes are too tight and I have to be realistic that I may not fit into them again. I felt fat trying on the clothes. I tried to find some shorts and tops that were more figure flattering and did not accentuate where I carry my extra pounds, but it wasn't that fun.
I really don't want to put on any more weight! I now weigh 149 lbs.
My life is so busy and I do not have the time or the mental ability to fuss over diet! This is so frustrating for me!!!!
However, I have learned a couple of points I may put to use...
* Walking alone does not incur weight loss for me.
* However walking has lots of benefits and I would like to include it when I can fit it into my day.
* Dieting does NOT work for me.
* I seem to have some stomach problems either, IBS or Chrones or something. It is pretty terrible and happens very frequently. Eating oatmeal seems to help.
* Eating eggs with avacados seems to help my blood sugar and really gives me a feeling of fullness.
So, most days I can manage I will try and take walks, eat eggs for breakfast, oatmeal for lunch and include more fruit and vegetables when I can.
There's my advice for myself for now and hopefully it will at least help me not to gain anymore weight.
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 13 June 2007 07:53 pm |
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Ok here I am again back to "loosely" counting calories.
I read the little bit on eating disorders because I do have some control issues and really don't like being told what to do, even by myself it appears, but honestly, I don't make myself throw up and I don't go without food (thats the problem) so I don't really fit bulimic and anorexic behavior. I do overeat to entertain myself and I am lazy.
I am trying to get an idea of eating less in a way that stabilizes my blood sugar and being more active so that I have a calorie deficit that I can live with. I am trying to do this with as little obsession as possible. Because the more I think about it, the more I am going to overeat just to be defiant. Crazy, I know.
I also feel particularly challenged because, I have a large family and we are all junk food eaters and my kids cause me stress with all their fighting and disagreements. I have to feed everybody and make everybody happy.
I don't post often because I feel I should have made some progress to be able to post.
But I keep coming back to read more and learn more and maybe eventually I will get it right. If I could even just lose one pound and feel that I did it on my own, that would encourage me and I would know I could do it.
I also wanted to try and adapt healthier habits, like giving up soda, but I think if I want to lose weight, drinking diet soda will help with that. It tastes sweet and has no calories.
Anyhoo, eating eggs for breakfast really does help. I feel lots better and can make it a long ways before needing another meal.
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 14 June 2007 03:57 am |
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I did well eating healthy most of the day. I am pretty sure I exceeded my calories however because I lost my will power and ate carrot cake for lunch. I am ashamed. I wish there were an embarresed emoticon for my ashamedness.
For breakfast I had 2 eggs with 1/2 avacodo. It was yummy and I felt very full afterwards, but that carrot cake was calling my name and so lunch got blown away pretty much.
lunch was a large piece of carrot cake and since I knew I was "blowing it"  I went ahead and munched some triscuit crackers with spray cheese - yum was that good! And...what else did I have? Oh yeah I ate a whole bunch of dried pineapple flavored with mango so yeah it had added sugar I'm sure. It was so yummy.
Dinner was much more better measured and healthier too. I had a palm sized portion of baked wild salmon, 1/2 baked potatoe with smart balance "butter" and half of my plate was salad with about 1 TB low fat ranch dressing. It was all very yummy and I did not feel deprived in the least.
I have decided to take seminakedcats advice and encourage my whole family to eat better and not buy junk anymore.
This really means an enormous change for our house. We have lived with our cupboards overflowing with junk food for forever. It is all we know.   
Really, my motto has been that pie is healthy because it has fruit in it. So! I hope all of you realize how different this is going to be for all of us.
It doesn't mean that we have never had healthy food. We just have never not had junk food.
I feel good about this. The big challenge of course, will be our next shopping trip and resisting the kids when they ask to get cookies, candy etc.
I probably will still keep frozen treats around. I do feel they are healthier than the hostess cakes and oreo cookies. I like the frozen fruit juice popsicles myself.
Also, I have been reading the archive newsletters -lots of good information there! And have recently signed up to receive the newsletter. I feel I have a plan that may have a chance.
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 14 June 2007 07:13 pm |
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So far I have done well today! Hooray! I walked about an hour. It was over 2 miles, but I am unsure of the exact distance.
I ate 2 eggs over easy in smart balance with 1/2 avacodo- yum!
and coffee with 1tsp sugar and a dribble of 1% milk.
I have a lot to do today, but I am going to watch my calorie intake and I am super pumped with my new goals!
Right now I am flying high on   HOPE
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 15 June 2007 08:37 pm |
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I have been doing very well with my eating and keeping my calories down.
Yesterday for lunch I had a low cal TV dinner of 200 cal and some dried fruit for a snack afterwards (I was craving something sweet)
Dinner was; 1/2 my plate was salad, had a small portion of mashed potatoes, gravy and a small portion of chicken and had a pudding pop around 8:30 which was 80 cal.
I don't know the calories of the chicken and potatoes and salad, but I am guessing I was within my range for the day because they were such small portions.
So far today I do not feel well and am unable to go for my walk. I don't even feel well enough to make my eggs for breakfast so far today I have had my coffee and made a protein shake with water instead of milk and added a raw egg to that. It didn't taste very good, but it was 180 calories.
I have ordered the Eat To Live book from amazon. I have to be honest here. I have no desire to give up meat and my husband would not be interested in giving it up either. I am only ordering it, in hopes of encouraging myself to eat more vegetables. And I think it will help me stay focused. I think it is good to have lots of motivation.
I have problems with low blood sugar, always have and I rely on animal protein to help me out with this and it does a good job. Eggs seem like a wonderful low calorie protein. I feel so much better when I eat them and I believe they are healthy.
I think it will help a great deal, not buying all the usual junk food and watching everybody else munching on junk all the time. And I think this is a huge leap for all of us, which worries me a little bit.
Small changes are better kept. We shall see how things go.
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 19 June 2007 09:49 pm |
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We had a wonderful Father's Day weekend. Despite not counting every single calorie and even eating out and induling here and there I have lost a couple of pounds.
I do find it easier to plan ahead what I am going to eat. High protein and lots of fruits and veggies does help a lot. I have more energy and feel fuller. I don't deny myself anything because if I do then I feel like binging on all kinds of junk.
Yesterday I had a cheesecake blizzard at Dairy Queen and even some onion rings. That was my lunch. I thought to myself, boy I am really blowing it now and so for dinner I just had a salad without any meat. I did not feel hungry at all. This morning I weighed 146.8
My routine is all messed up today because I didn't have any coffee. I am thinking I would like to cut caffeine out of my life, but I don't know if I actually will or not. I've had 3 diet pepsi because of the lack of coffee. Hmph!
I have a friend coming over and have been scrambling to get my house into some kind of order before she gets here. Also, these extra fruits and veggies are making me bloated. So I don't feel like I've lost any weight.
At least I know I can do it now, and life is getting pretty busy, so I probably won't be on here very much. Being on the computer doesn't help me lose weight anyway. Only the knowledge I acquire on here helps me. And thank goodness for Seminakedcats for encouraging me to not buy all the tons of junk food anymore. That is a huge thing that is going to help out my entire family.
Food for the day
2 eggs cooked with smart balance and topped with sliced tomatoes. (no toast)
1 apple
1 slim fast meal bar 220 calories
I feel very full now. Dinner will probably be baked fish half a plate of salad and 1/2 baked potatoe with smart balance and lots of salt.
I would like to add, in case somebody else reads this, I have found a lot of good low calorie foods that really help with weight loss. Sara Lee Delightful whole wheat bread is only 45 calories a slice. If a person utilizes fruit, veggies, and protein and gets in some walking or other activity, it really does work. (however do get the hostess twinkies and cupcakes out of the house)
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 22 June 2007 06:16 pm |
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This morning I weighed in at 145.4 !!!
I am not sure I beleive the scale. I got on it 3 times and got the same reading each time. I still don't believe it.
I haven't been walking because I have so much to do around the house and when I walk in the mornings I lose my focus of what needs to be done. Once I can catch up a bit on all the stuff I have to do I will go back to my morning walks.
I've finished the first chapter of Eat To Live. It's been great so far. Most of what Dr Fuhrman says rings true. It is like someone has given me a good shaking and said "What have you been doing to yourself and your family?!"
I am much more convinced now that I will be able to reach my goals and help my family out in the process.
Live with no regrets! Everyday is a lesson.
I take quite a bit of the responsibility because I do plan the menus and make the shopping list. Though we do all go grocery shopping together, I do feel that I have been the "food monitor".
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MNGuppyMom
Senior Member
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Posted: 22 June 2007 08:14 pm |
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| Congratulations, Sassykat! That's great to get down to 145.4 lbs! You are doing great. You WILL succeed!
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 22 June 2007 08:56 pm |
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Thank you MNGuppyMom! I have never tried to purposely lose weight before, I mean not truly, so I am pretty excited!! I didn't think I would be able to do it!
Welcome to the forum by the way! It's a great place with so many friendly people.
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seminakedcats
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 26 June 2007 03:08 am |
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Hey Sas!
Got your message, thanks! That was so sweet and a great thing to come home to! I have been in Atlanta since Thursday morning, which is why I've been MIA in the forums, but I'm BAAAA-AAACK! Boo!
I've been reading your journal (and probably so has Dick Cheney), and it looks like you're really taking off again! That's great. Slumps happen and you've certainly got a lot on your plate (not dinner, but family). Being here is so helpful for me and it seems like it's been good for you too. When you write down what you've eaten along with getting help and GIVING help, like you do, I think it makes life well-balanced, not just meals.
It's good to be back and I wanted to check in with you!! It's been nice having a friend on here. That also helps an awful lot!
Well, back to the posts for some inspiration and calorie counting!
Vacation is officially O-V-E-R!
Kit
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
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Posted: 26 June 2007 07:28 pm |
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Hey there Semi! Welcome back from vacation! It's good to have you back again! For a minute there I thought you dropped off the face of the earth. But yeah, I am trying not to spend as much time on the computer and everyone needs a little vacation.
Hey are there those huge cockroaches in Atlanta? Someone told me once that there were huge cockroaches around there. I don't get out much so I rely on others to educate me in the ways of the world.
I am trying a breakfast substitution today and see how I feel. Instead of the eggs I've had a banana, peach and 1/4 C of cashews. I've made my planned food list for the day and pasted it. I am coming up short on calories though so I will probably add something else in, but I'm sure it will be spontaneously because I can't think of anything at the moment. This "plan" is kind of a experiment. I am trying to eat healthier, but I am really having a hard time figuring out what to eat. I don't know how to eat healthier. And after finishing chapter 4 of Eat To Live, well so much of the food available is not that healthy- even bread, which totally blows my mind. Eating only fruit and vegetables does not offer enough calories for the day sooo...I am just trying to figure this out.
Here is what I am going to eat today:
Calories
Protein
Fat
Carbs
Fiber
Sodium
843.4
22.8
21.5
79.0
14.2
835.4
% of Calories:
15%
32%
53%
1 15.5 oz can of pinto beans
385.0
6.0
1.0
16.0
5.0
410.0
Olives, black, pitted - medium [Safeway]
5 olives, 0.53 oz=15 g
25.0
0.0
2.5
1.0
0.0
115.0
Broccoli, raw - florets
1 cup=237 ml or 2.5 oz=71 g
19.9
2.1
0.2
3.7
M
19.2
Caesar Salad without Chicken
7.5 oz=213 g
90.0
7.0
4.0
9.0
3.0
180.0
1/4 cashews
160.0
5.0
13.0
8.0
0.8
110.0
Peaches - medium
2-2/3"=6.8 cm dia or 5.3 oz=150 g
58.5
1.4
0.4
14.3
2.3
0.0
Bananas - medium
7 to 7-7/8"=17.8 to 20 cm or 4.2 oz=118 g
105.0
1.3
0.4
27.0
3.1 Last edited on 26 June 2007 08:06 pm by Sassykat
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Sassykat
Distinguished Member
| Joined: | 14 February 2007 |
| Location: | |
