I can't take it anymore!!

[slpknt2886]

Here's my story... I was once a happy-go-lucky skinny girl about 3 years ago. Then my father became very sick with cancer. From being depressed I started gaining weight due to eating unhealthy foods from the hospital cafeteria, and spending all my time with him, instead of going out and being active. And ended up gaining about 25 lbs. Well after he passed away, I went into extreme depression mode. And turns out, I gained 75 more lbs. in 3 years. I KNOW! HUUUUGE GAIN! I'm tired of avoiding everyone I have ever known. I'm tired of feeling so damn ugly!

So now, that I've recovered from the loss of my daddy, I'm getting into the rhythm of getting healthy and losing weight. I joined LA Fitness, and I decided that I will go 4 times a week, since that is all my schedule will allow. And dedicate myself to eating healthier. No strict dieting. (Fad diets don't work for me!) Just watching what I eat, and avoiding certain foods.

Other than that, I'm clueless.

Is there certain foods that I need to eat? Do I need to eat 6 small meals? I always skip breakfast and just eat lunch and dinner.

Any tips, success stories, etc would be amazing.

THANKS IN ADVANCE!!!!

~April~

 

[warpgm]

Congratulations on deciding to do something about getting healthier! First off, never skip breakfast! Breakfast is what kicks your metabolism into gear when you first get up. Just make sure it's something with protein and complex carbohydrates. Try a bowl of oatmeal and two egg whites or cottage cheese and fruit. Never have a doughnut for breakfast though, it may give you energy to start but it will drop you like a rock in an hour or so. I agree about fad diets though, they don't work. What you need to do is create a lifestyle that keeps you active and healthy. I've just started on my get-healthier journey. It may not be easy but... it's really worth it. Good luck!

 

[slpknt2886]

Thanks for the response. What is considered a complex carb? Should I avoid most carbs as much as I possibly can?

 

[burneeed1]

LA fitness is amazing!! haha Best of luck with your wl, and why unfortunately FL? I would trade you states nicely if asked!

 

[slpknt2886]

LA fitness is amazing!! haha Best of luck with your wl, and why unfortunately FL? I would trade you states nicely if asked!

I hate it here. Too many crabby people!! It's ALWAYS hot, rainy, muggy, or all three at the same time. I prefer mountains to beaches.

So far I love LA fitness too!

 

[slpknt2886]

I worked my BUTT off at the gym for a full week. And I haven't lost a single ounce. What the crap?

Is this normal? From how I have been watching what I eat, and exercising so frequent, I figured I would have lost 2 lbs AT LEAST by now?

I'm saddened and discouraged...

 

[Darth Pooh]

I worked my BUTT off at the gym for a full week. And I haven't lost a single ounce. What the crap?

Is this normal? From how I have been watching what I eat, and exercising so frequent, I figured I would have lost 2 lbs AT LEAST by now?

I'm saddened and discouraged...

Don't be.

And I'd avoid the scale at all costs, let alone after the first week.

Your scale doesn't know the difference between fat, muscle, glycogen, etc. So, there is a ton of things going on in your body that you just can't get from a scale. Usually after the first week or so... glycogen/water have a little dance and things balance out. However, I'd probably stick to measurements (tape measure), clothes, and pictures every two weeks (some people go a month) for tracking progress.

Remember, I know you want to do this for vanity, it's quite obvious from your few postings, which is fine. Hell we all have reasons for being here and/or weight loss. But, just because you don't make progress in the one area immediately, doesn't mean it isn't being made at all and it doesn't mean you aren't helping other areas (like health and fitness). You should really try to find a positive out of all of it. Discouraging yourself after the first week will lead to ultimate failure, and I'd hate to see that happen.

 

[slpknt2886]

Don't be.

And I'd avoid the scale at all costs, let alone after the first week.

Your scale doesn't know the difference between fat, muscle, glycogen, etc. So, there is a ton of things going on in your body that you just can't get from a scale. Usually after the first week or so... glycogen/water have a little dance and things balance out. However, I'd probably stick to measurements (tape measure), clothes, and pictures every two weeks (some people go a month) for tracking progress.

Remember, I know you want to do this for vanity, it's quite obvious from your few postings, which is fine. Hell we all have reasons for being here and/or weight loss. But, just because you don't make progress in the one area immediately, doesn't mean it isn't being made at all and it doesn't mean you aren't helping other areas (like health and fitness). You should really try to find a positive out of all of it. Discouraging yourself after the first week will lead to ultimate failure, and I'd hate to see that happen.

Well I noticed today that my pants fit better. But I thought that was all just in my head, since I stepped on the scale, and saw no improvement. I got discouraged since my buddy lost 7 lbs the first week with just exercise, and I couldn't even lose 1. Everyone is different. But I'm sure you understand how I felt.

I guess I will have to start measuring myself. And I will buy a better scale, the one I have is from the 80's. haha.

It's isn't all for vanity. Everyone ones to look better. I just don't want to be overweight and unhealthy any longer. I'm young. I don't want to die very early, because of my poor choices as a young adult.

I was also thinking of starting Weight Watchers as well. A couple of my friends had huge success with it. I would just rather kick my butt in the gym, than be forced to eat "cardboard". haha.

 

[Steve]

Congratulations on deciding to do something about getting healthier! First off, never skip breakfast! Breakfast is what kicks your metabolism into gear when you first get up.

Not really. Metabolism is not volatile as many lead you to believe. Sure, breakfast is probably a good idea for most, but not because of some magical metabolic boost.

Just make sure it's something with protein and complex carbohydrates. Try a bowl of oatmeal and two egg whites or cottage cheese and fruit. Never have a doughnut for breakfast though, it may give you energy to start but it will drop you like a rock in an hour or so.

What about a doughnut with some cottage cheese or a protein shake?

 

[Vitality!]

I worked my BUTT off at the gym for a full week. And I haven't lost a single ounce. What the crap?

Define: "I worked my butt off for a full week". What did you actually do?

What is your training/fitness program?

Also you never really defined the specifics of your diet (i.e. Calories, nutrient grams, etc, etc).

Is this normal?

Actually, I do not know. It could be, and it may not be. I don't know because the information provided is not enough to give you a more refined and specific answer-->particular to you.

Quite simply, (with the information provided), I can't answer (or rather give an opinion on) why your body reacted in the manner it did, because the information provided is simply not enough to provide a more concise answer. It makes me assume too many things, and this will not do any good for you.

Again, outline your training/fitness program. How long on it, and specifically what you are doing (types of exercises, and how long your train, and how often, etc).

Again, outline your current diet: Calories, what you are eating, how much of what you are eating, and when you are eating it (as in how many meals per day, etc).

The body is an extraordinary adaptive mechanic. And, the only way to out adapt this "sometimes" efficient mechanic, is use its main tool against it: The Brain, with much diet and fitness education crammed inside.

Answer my questions, and be sure to read the stickies.


Best regards,

Chillen

 

[Vitality!]

A person never lacks support and its always personally available.

YOU ALWAYS HAVE IT........You carry it with you everyday.......it just depends on how you.....feed it. Yes, a steady diet feeding your motivation is important too.......

Defeating the mental beasts in which prevents its functional use is the complication.

It's psychologically and biologically within; one has to be consciously aware of it; know how to properly process and utilize it.

One needs a big strong hand to reach in grab the soul to express these infinite riches, and the precious gifts received can never be accessed by anyone.

You become alive and surrounded by an impenetrable shield beating inside yourself. Strum each finger through your soul, feel with accuracy of what you feel, realize and examine what you perceive. Investigate, and just for once, comprehend the master. You can't be defeated, not even by yourself.

The greatest artwork ever created is brushing and painting the power of the soul. It is the greatest personal friendship within your body you will ever possess.

The music created will open the gate of the power kingdom. Your vision becomes clear through this one-way window and nourishes your being as you open the window and view the pictures of life, and realize you have a resolved and impenetrable soul as you receive the lessons of living life.

And, do not forget it.

Stayen' Alive......on the inside...and you recognize and kill all the jive talken' bull-sh^t, and you are fortress that can not be defeated.

Tip the cup to your soul, take an educated walk with your goal, others will be in awe.....as they stay stuck going no where.

The inner soul is the toughest "thing" on earth. A weak soul is death, and some walk in this death, and are unaware of it.


YOU CAN DO THIS. You have all the power.



Best regards,


Chillen

 

[slpknt2886]

Define: "I worked my butt off for a full week". What did you actually do?

What is your training/fitness program?

Also you never really defined the specifics of your diet (i.e. Calories, nutrient grams, etc, etc).



Actually, I do not know. It could be, and it may not be. I don't know because the information provided is not enough to give you a more refined and specific answer-->particular to you.

Quite simply, (with the information provided), I can't answer (or rather give an opinion on) why your body reacted in the manner it did, because the information provided is simply not enough to provide a more concise answer. It makes me assume too many things, and this will not do any good for you.

Again, outline your training/fitness program. How long on it, and specifically what you are doing (types of exercises, and how long your train, and how often, etc).

Again, outline your current diet: Calories, what you are eating, how much of what you are eating, and when you are eating it (as in how many meals per day, etc).

The body is an extraordinary adaptive mechanic. And, the only way to out adapt this "sometimes" efficient mechanic, is use its main tool against it: The Brain, with much diet and fitness education crammed inside.

Answer my questions, and be sure to read the stickies.


Best regards,

Chillen

I have been going Monday-Friday for about 1.5 hrs.

The first thing I do is 2 sets of 15 of the Leg Press. Then I do 2 more sets of 15 on the Leg Press but only for my calves. 50lbs.

Then 2 sets of 15 on the Leg Extensions. 50Lbs.

Then 2 sets of 15 of the Leg Curl. 50lbs.

Then 2 sets of 15 on the Lateral Pulldown.. 50lbs.

Then 2 sets of 15 on another pulldown machine. 70 lbs.

Then I finish off with 1-2 miles on the treadmill, 3mph. or 15 minutes on the Stairmaster.


I eat about 1200-1500 calories a day. No fast food. I don't eat breakfast. Turkey sandwich on wheat, no mayo, no mustard for lunch. Lean turkey meat or chicken for dinner. Don't snack. Drink water, and my morning 12 oz. Coca-Cola in the morning for caffeine.

 

[Darth Pooh]

You should probably be eating a bit more than 1200-1500 a day. I'd say if you are doing all that in the gym, you are probably burning roughly around 400 calories, maybe a little less. Still, even if you ate about 1800 calories a day, you'd be in a deficit. Plug your numbers into a BMR calculator and give us the basic number... but generally for weight loss, I bet that is the same number as your weight X 11-12 calories.

That probably isn't why you didn't lose weight, but it can cause plateau issues down the line.

 

[slpknt2886]

You should probably be eating a bit more than 1200-1500 a day. I'd say if you are doing all that in the gym, you are probably burning roughly around 400 calories, maybe a little less. Still, even if you ate about 1800 calories a day, you'd be in a deficit. Plug your numbers into a BMR calculator and give us the basic number... but generally for weight loss, I bet that is the same number as your weight X 11-12 calories.

That probably isn't why you didn't lose weight, but it can cause plateau issues down the line.

My BMR is 1562.5.

Do you think that I am not losing weight just yet, because of building muscle mass? I am doing a lot of weight machine exercises. And the next day, it is hard for me to walk upstairs at work. lol.

I'm confused.

 

[Darth Pooh]

My BMR is 1562.5.

Do you think that I am not losing weight just yet, because of building muscle mass? I am doing a lot of weight machine exercises. And the next day, it is hard for me to walk upstairs at work. lol.

I'm confused.

Here is what I think... personally. I am not a doctor nor a trainer. So, it's just anecdotal at best.

You haven't built muscle in a weeks time. It's just not how the human body works. What is probably happening is a series of things, but glycogen (the stuff the body makes energy from) is probably re balancing inside of you since you've recently changed your diet drastically. It basically is "repartitioning" how it processes your energy source (food) so it is more effective for your daily use (exercise). Also, one week is not a long time at all... I am willing to bet your friend lost a lot of weight due to it being mostly water weight, lots of high sodium diets can retain water. You might not have had a lot of sodium and never retained much water... therefore, what looks like "fat" loss, is really water loss. I don't personally know every detail... but these are the things I could imagine going on.

I say, stick to your goals, but increase those calories, because too low and you won't get any results eventually (I've been there). If your BMR is 1526, that means if you lied in bed all day, you'd burn that many... but you move and workout. Therefore, I'd say you probably want to eat at least 1900 calories a day. At that rate, you'd lose a LB a week, and that is key to safe weight loss (less chance of gaining back, better chance of skin responding to elasticity).

You have the right mindset, you just need the right information to work off of.

 

[slpknt2886]

I am going to sit down with a nutritionist, and figure out what I should be eating. I will start writing down everything that I eat, exercise, etc. So that she will have a good idea of what I do, then she can give me tips. Maybe I have gained weight because I eat too little.

I have a great deal of willpower, so avoiding junk food, shouldn't be an issue. I have a candy dish on my desk for people who come in, and I haven't taken a piece! I look at it, tell myself I don't need it, and get distracted doing other things.

I think I will be good to go as soon as I figure out my food intake issues.

 

[HealthyEating]

I am going to sit down with a nutritionist, and figure out what I should be eating. I will start writing down everything that I eat, exercise, etc. So that she will have a good idea of what I do, then she can give me tips. Maybe I have gained weight because I eat too little.

I have a great deal of willpower, so avoiding junk food, shouldn't be an issue. I have a candy dish on my desk for people who come in, and I haven't taken a piece! I look at it, tell myself I don't need it, and get distracted doing other things.

I think I will be good to go as soon as I figure out my food intake issues.

If people gained weight when they didn't eat enough, wouldn't starving children in Africa look super fat?

Sort of how Steve thinks people who believe breakfast boosts metabolism over-exagurate, I think people who say that eating too little makes you stop losing weight are wrong.

 

[txsqlchick]

Somewhere in this thread you asked if you should avoid carbs as much as you possibly can.

The answer is NO.

Read the stickies.

I have a co-worker who has repeatedly done low-carb dieting and loses, then re-gains the same 20 lbs over and over. I've lost 60 lbs, he sees that, and still refuses to listen to any advice I give him. So, I no longer bother.

 

[Darth Pooh]

If people gained weight when they didn't eat enough, wouldn't starving children in Africa look super fat?

Sort of how Steve thinks people who believe breakfast boosts metabolism over-exagurate, I think people who say that eating too little makes you stop losing weight are wrong.

I think you are wrong and an idiot for giving out shit information.

I've done my research... I don't think, I know. You are comparing Apples to Oranges... and no one said anything about gaining weight when one doesn't eat enough. However, if the OP is going for the STARVED AFRICAN look, by all means, please, use this moron's advice. Next time you open your mouth, back it by research... here google "set point theory".

Somewhere in this thread you asked if you should avoid carbs as much as you possibly can.

The answer is NO.

Read the stickies.

I have a co-worker who has repeatedly done low-carb dieting and loses, then re-gains the same 20 lbs over and over. I've lost 60 lbs, he sees that, and still refuses to listen to any advice I give him. So, I no longer bother.

Yup. My brother, same deal. 220 - 180 all the time using ketosis-only based diets. He has watched me lose 120 lbs of body fat and put on quite a bit of lean muscle, but still uses his methods. I understand why though, it's a bit of a comfort zone for people like that. They see success with a particular method and then run with it, even if it isn't the most effective method. All they know is that it "works". CKD, now that is something I can get behind because the research is there.

 

[slpknt2886]

Yup. My brother, same deal. 220 - 180 all the time using ketosis-only based diets. He has watched me lose 120 lbs of body fat and put on quite a bit of lean muscle, but still uses his methods. I understand why though, it's a bit of a comfort zone for people like that. They see success with a particular method and then run with it, even if it isn't the most effective method. All they know is that it "works". CKD, now that is something I can get behind because the research is there.

Is there a diet that you would recommend?

What is CKD? I typed it into google, and i got Chronic Kidney Disease. Which I'm sure you didn't mean!