Bonnie Jean
New member
I'm so frustrated. I'm 61 years old, 5'2" and 136 lbs. I've only lost 6 pounds since I started dieting and exercising about 2 months ago. I smoked for 40 years and quit last May 2011. I gained 20 lbs, went from size 4 to 12. I realize that some people would kill to be size 12 but for a short person like me, I'd rather be a 6 or an 8. I didn't worry so much about the inevitable weight gain because I had always been able to drop a few pounds if needed. Not anymore. The only differences I can think of are (1) smoking increases metabolism (2) food tastes so much better (3) I'm no longer on hormone replacement therapy and everything is wacky and last but not least, (4) I'm old. I am on some meds for high blood pressure, cholesterol, depression, anxiety, and tremors. I've had a few mini strokes but none lately. Since I started walking on my treadmill, I'm able to go 2 miles in 40 minutes and my stamina has really, really, improved. That's a big leap from not even wanting to get out of bed. I know I can't turn back the clock but I don't have to look like a grandmother if I don't want to and I don't want to, especially since I'm not even a mother, except to my dogs. I digress. Anyway, what else can I do besides low fat, no sugar, small portions and walking 2 miles a day? I would greatly appreciate any help or advice.