Metabolic Research Center - Take XI

[angierue]

Let's see if this works... I think 39 pages is quite enough. :) Plus it's a new month so a new thread, right?

[angierue]

MSTeacher & Readytobethin - I'm not sure how the ketosis works either. I have never been able to make my stick change colors so now I'm wondering if I haven't been in that "fat burning" phase at all. Which actually is quite disappointing since I have been so good and careful about not eating anything off plan. However, it would probably explain my 1 lb gain today (along with the super work out on Saturday).

Rocki - Don't stress about the gain. A lot of that could also be some extra water so be sure and drink, drink, drink your water this week to try and flush it all out. Also, it was suggested to me by my center that I might want to pick up some B6 because it apparently is a bit of a diuretic and could help with the extra water that my post workout muscles are holding on to. You might want to look into that.

I think someone had mentioned trouble getting all their water in... Here is what has helped me. I purchased two 32 oz Nalgen brand water bottles I keep one at the office and one at home. I pretty much carry one with me constantly and I refill it throughout the day. I also try to have finished at least one full one between breakfast and lunch, another between lunch and dinner and another between dinner and bed. I actually ended up drinking way more than that once I got rolling on that routine.

And I have completely cut out my caffeine so the only fluids I'm drinking are water and my HNS with the occasional Diet Rite Pure Zero (no cals, carbs, caffeine OR sodium). I've noticed now that I get super thirsty (which they say is actually a good sign... when you're not thirsty, you're dehydrated) and want the water all the time. I probably go through a good 4-6 of these bottles a day. Treat your water intake just like your food intake. Put it on a plan and try your hardest to stick to it. :)

I think I might actually be getting to that part where food really is just fuel to me as well. Sure, I kind of miss some things but I have to say that as far as cravings go, I'm not really having any. I still get hungry sometimes but the things I want to eat are better for me... Like some fruit or some veggies. As opposed to the old me that wanted ice cream and chocolate! :D

Tomorrow is meeting #2 with the personal trainer. The friend that I went with Saturday met with him today and she said that they didn't work on the legs, just arms, which makes me happy. I am still so freakin' sore that I don't think I could do a lunge or sumo squat to save my life! So I'm definitely looking forward to that now more than I was earlier today.

Oh, and if anyone can explain the ketosis stuff a little better, I know I'm not the only one that would appreciate it!

[Rocki]

Thanks for the kind words everyone.

Readytobethin..You so ROCK, 24 pounds in what, a month??? That is soooo awesome. 2.5 lbs today? That's great! I'll be right there with you soon:).

As for the ketosis..they told me that I should be between trace and small. If you're in ketosis then your body is burning it's own fat stores for fuel (that's what your body prefers to do and what is best health wise, according to everything I've read). I think the square on the bottle is the second from the left (not the faintest, negative, but the next one over). I usually measure between that and small, except today I was negative b/c of my off program day! :(.

Update on Mydietshopz.com. I placed an order with them tonight. I know I'll need to get some more HNS from my center but I saved almost $40 by purchasing online. If you spend more than $70 shipping is free, and if you spend more than $150 you get 10% off your total order. Their drinks are all $9.95 right now and the chocolate mini crisps are $8.95 until March 6. I got 15 boxes of drinks and creamies (including one of the mini crisps) and I spent $137. If you figure the boxes are 5 for $55 and my tax is 7% I would have spent $176.55. I'll get 5 more boxes at the center this week to save money buying in bulk but I'll buy the flavors the website doesn't have (peach-mango, pink-lemonade, pineapple). I'll let you know how it goes.

[graduatethin]

Good Job Angierue!! Thanks for starting the new thread!! We have always started a new one at around 39-40 pages, I don't know why-- don't really know much! lol.... Have a good night everyone. I am going to wi tomorrow and will begin week 5 of stabilization. I am hoping to hit that 50 pound board tomorrow- my 50th birthday is Thursday and I really wanted to sign that board before that!! Cross your fingers!

[3monkeysmomma]

White River was about dried up the last time we were there. Not much around that area...

So, do you actually start the program/diet Friday like me? I was doing SO good until this weekend... Started over today...

It was about 11 or 12 years ago that I went to White River, kinda depressing when a lake just isn't there anymore.

Friday I get my menu, They didn't really say what to eat until then. They said to get off caffeine (which I already did that) and to get off sugar (working on that right now) stay away from sweets, snacking etc. Increase my water to 64 oz. and take my vitamins, Oh and just to eat 3 balanced meals a day, start the day with two eggs and whole wheat toast. So I have been doing that. Ill be glad when Friday gets here, I don't feel like I have started anything yet. It will be fun to see each others progress since we started the same time.

3monkeysmomma

[fritochip]

Thank you for starting the new thread. I agree with many of you that food has taken on a whole different dimension...I love to entertian and read cookbooks like novels but this diet or 'life change' has really changed my priorities. Food truly has become a necessary fuel and this is totally a surprise to me! I find myself chuckling when I feel like I cheated or was "bad" because I had some cottage cheese and celery! I like the cheesecake recipe in the book and have added shredded lemon peel...i hope that is okay. I will look into the online site for HNS....exercise is still a problem and I know I need to step it up if I want to maximize the diet. i have lost 16 pounds in 4 weeks and am so excited to see more! We all have things that get in the way of taking care of ourselves, but we must really try to understand that taking care of ourselves does not mean a martini and a hamburger!

[nomoredonuts4me]

Good Job Angierue!! Thanks for starting the new thread!! We have always started a new one at around 39-40 pages, I don't know why-- don't really know much! lol.... Have a good night everyone. I am going to wi tomorrow and will begin week 5 of stabilization. I am hoping to hit that 50 pound board tomorrow- my 50th birthday is Thursday and I really wanted to sign that board before that!! Cross your fingers!

graduatethin~ FYI: In the past, the moderators post a message to start a new thread after 40 or so pages.

How many weeks are there in stabilization? just curious.

I will be crossing my fingers for you tomorrow:crossed:
Just think, you will be 50 pounds lighter and Fit & Fifty. :carrot:

[nomoredonuts4me]

Tim~ here are some breakfast ideas I use. I like to have turkey sausage (MRC recipe), 3 oz of hard cheese with seseme melba toast snack rounds, 3 fried egg whites and low cal tortilla, pan fried tilapia coated with ground melba toast mixed with powdered hidden valley ranch dressing and Mrs. Dash garlic and herb, and of course the amazing cheese cake (MRC recipe). I also like a meal replacement bar or shake once in awhile for breakfast. I will try to post some of these breakfast recipes on the MRC recipe thread.

goal4life~ I too have transformed into a food for fuel mentality. But, I must say that Supper Solutions has brought back the zing I needed for variety. They come up with meals I never would have thought up myself. Also, topping my chicken, turkey sausage, and other meats with smoked cheeses has added a great taste to my foods. Have you gone to any cooking classed at MRC? It's a great way to do some food sampling. There is nothing wrong with making your food into tasty fuel.:^:

angieroo~ Thanks for starting Take XI! As far as your 1 lb gain, it could have been your cold/cough medicine. I think I gained a pound after I was sick and took Nyquil, but it was worth taking for all the sleep I gained. Don't worry about it, just move on and you will see great losses in the coming weeks ahead.
Congrats on starting a great workout routine with your friend. BTW, I use Beta-Alanine to prevent muscle soreness due to weight training. When you weight train or exercise hard you break down muscle tissue and release lactic acid as a waste byproduct. This lactic acid is what causes muscle soreness. Beta-Alanine acts as a buffer to neutralize the lactic acid. But, if you are really into pain, forget I said anything;) FYI, I buy my Beta-Alanine at GNC.

I have a personal dilemma I would like to share here with my MRC buddies. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Recently, I've been getting a lot of "you don't need to lose anymore weight" comments. When I tell them I have over 30 more pounds to lose, they look at me like I must be developing some kind of an eating disorder. Ya know, they haven't seen me naked. This could start a head game with me. I could start to believe them, and this could sabotage my weight loss efforts if I let it. Don't get me wrong, I kinda like it when people think I'm at my goal weight already. I just happen to hold my weight well. I have told them I'm still above a 30 BMI. I've lost 35 pounds since my after picture posted on my personal profile. What should I do about this? Please help!

shineon and jant~ Where are you!!!??? Shineon, I hope your cruise didn't take you to banana split island. Jant, come back to the brite side.

[nomoredonuts4me]

angieroo~ I just looked at your diet blog:rofl:

[graduatethin]

graduatethin~ FYI: In the past, the moderators post a message to start a new thread after 40 or so pages.

How many weeks are there in stabilization? just curious.

I will be crossing my fingers for you tomorrow:crossed:
Just think, you will be 50 pounds lighter and Fit & Fifty. :carrot:

If I understand correctly, there are 6 weeks of stabilization. I know when I go today I will get some new choices for protein. My counselor said I would be getting peanut butter and nuts back. I am not a big PB fan, but she is so she was real excited. I do like almonds, so I am stocked and ready to go! lol Thanks for the vote of confidence!

[graduatethin]

Donuts:

I have gotten similar comments, mostly from my mother! I just try to keep thinking of the numbers and what they mean. You will know when you are at that healthy weight. Remember, these people have seen major change in a short amount of time! You are doing so great, don't let anyone slow you down now! I remember when I was about 10 from goal and everyone saying are you done?? But the last ten have come off slowly and I think it is not as drastic of a change. You will be fine, just keep plugging away! I think with all your exercise, you have to be toning and really changing your whole appearance- just lift your chin up and be proud!!

[Goal4Life]

Donuts...I liked some of the breakfast ideas you gave Tim, those are some nice changes.

I am glad to hear that I am not the only one that has started looking at food differently.

I wi in a little while, I will let you all know how it goes. As long as I lose a 1/2 pound I get to sign the 65 pound board, but I think I am closer to the 2 pounds lost, but we shall see, my scale is always a bit different than MRC's.

I too have started getting comments, mostly from family, that says, oh you look great, you don't need to lose another 35 pounds. But they don't know that I am still over 200 pounds. I too carry my weight pretty well, I would say that it is evenly distributed all over :) LOL So my advice, just keep doing what you know is best for your body. You know your weight, and your healthy numbers. Don't let those around you change your goals. Remember, feeders, I think those same feeders can be the ones that tell you you've lost enough.

[Goal4Life]

angierue...loved the post on your blog from the website that adjusted your pic, but not your head! LMAO!
Keep up your great work! You are so determined, before long you will be signing board after board, and really seeing some great results!

[3monkeysmomma]

Hi Donuts,

Before I decided to try MRC I thought I was having weight loss surgory, my insurance company thought differently. Many friends and family would tell me "Oh your not heavy enough for surgory" I am 100 lbs overweight and they said not heavy enough? Also before when I would lose weight they would say the same thing to me "you look great just the way you are" in there own way I think they were just trying to give a compliment, I bet if they knew their words were deterring you and keeping you from your goal they never would have said a thing. My husband tells me he loves me the way I am and I am beautiful, bless the man for saying it but he loves me, that makes him prejudiced to it. I ask myself "what would a stranger have to say who doesn't see me everyday and who doesn't love me, or a doctor that has never seen me before?" I am sure the transformation is amazing, and even more so to them that know and love you, but you are the one that has to live with you.
I tend to rattle on sometimes.

3monkeysmomma
:jig::jig::jig:

[mommato3]

I posted this on the old thread, so I moved it over here!

Okay, I am writing to whine! I went in for a wi yesterday, and I was up 1/2 a pound. I know that isn't so horrible, but I so did not want to be up. It is totally my own fault. We were out of town for five days, and I did not keep up with my HNS's as well as I should have. Also, I had little "cheats" which I kept telling myself were okay because they were little. (A tater tot here, a few chips there, etc.) So, I should be glad that I wasn't up any higher than 1/2 a pound! I learned a valuable lesson--every bite that goes into my mouth "counts." Please help me remember this in the future. I really need some support and an "accountability" monitor.!!!!

[chopingirl]

Good morning, all you big losers!!! :hug:

Well, I was going to start stabilization last week, but have decided to go one more month to lose another 9 lbs. I will now FOR SURE start stabilization at the end of March. My original goal has been met (59 lbs.), but I calculated my BMI, and I am still at 25.8. In order to reach a healthy BMI, I need to weigh 173, so I'm going for it (I want my BMI to read 24.8 - then I'll be SMOKIN' :smoking:!!!) justkidding. I talked with the girls at my center, and they totally supported my decision, so onward and forward I go. I said that I would post before and after pics, but am still having trouble with the self-image issue, so will post them when I reach my new goal.

I am also still on steroids for another two days, so I am living and breathing proof that the steroids aren't what makes you gain weight. It's the HUNGER DEVIL :devil:- I wanted to eat everything in sight, but didn't.

goal4life - I, too, have converted using food for fuel only. It's just not FUN (and the operative word here is 'fun') to eat anymore, so while the steroids presented a definite challenge, I eat exactly the same thing everyday. I feel like it took me all this time to figure out exactly WHAT to eat to maximize my weight loss; and therefore, that's what I stick to every single day. Funny story - I decided last week that I reaaaalllllyyyyy needed to eat something different, so finally talked my husband into buying a George Foreman grill. All of y'all have talked about how wonderful it is, so I thought I could grill some squash or zucchini to get away from the cucumbers that I eat like it's my religion or something. Every single night since, HE has cooked tilapia, brats, hamburgers, catfish, salmon (I think that's it., and none of that is on my vegetarian plan!) My dog has a really sensitive stomach, so we boil chicken for him and my husband even grilled chicken for our DOG on it. Have I used it? Nope - I'm still stuck in cucumberland. But...my time is coming. I can just feel it! :D

donuts - I do know what you mean about people now saying that you don't need to lose anymore weight. I had a voice student's mom just yesterday say, "So, did you have to buy a whole new wardrobe or something?" ...and she was scowling with her lip turned up when she said it - no congratulatory grin or anything. I find that the people that have said anything negative to me about my weight loss are those that are still struggling with weight issues themselves. Do you think that could be some of it? You are the epitome of the kind of success that comes with not only this program, but what comes with the desire for a healthy lifestyle. You go, Darren!!!!!!

Everyone have a WONDERFUL Tuesday!!:hug:

[Goal4Life]

I just got back from wi, and yeahh, I did lose the 2 pounds that I was hoping for, and I officially got to sign the 65 pound board! :) :dance: And, I also got to wave goodbye to the 210's(teens)!

Chopin..I think you made a great choice to go continue until you are happy with your BMI.

Oreo...thanks for your explanation on the goal that you set at MRC. It totally make sense.

[oreoparent]

FROM THE LAST THREAD
Quote:
Originally Posted by Goal4Life
OREO...hang in there. You will make it through this hold. I am sure when you are able to get back on plan, your body will begin its fat burning stage again.
I have a question, who set your goal at 150? You are the same height as me, my original goal was to get my BMI at a normal range, and not in the overweight category. MRC calculated my height and said that my BMI would be 24% (which is the high end of normal) at 180. So I set my original goal to 175. I was just wandering, if to personal, then please disregard my question. I also told them when my BMI became in the normal range, that maybe I would re-evuate my self, and see if my confidence and self image felt happy at 175. They seemed to think 175 was a great goal (by the way I am 30, so not to off in age from you). I haven't been at a normal healthy weight as an adult, so my calculations may be off, on what I really want to achieve.
Goal 4 life, sorry it has taken so long to reply. I have been out of town. The goal they helped me set was 160. When I was losing weight rapidly, I moved my goal to 150. I feel that if I could get there then I would be able to lessen my stress when i have to go on steroids periodically. I usually gain 5-10 lbs every time I have to do a one-week pill pack. I'm sure that most of the time the weight is water, but psychologically, it is hard to handle gaining that much weight in such a short amount of time. If I reach 160 then I probably would lose 5 or more lbs in stabilization and maintenance. At least that is whet I have heard. I weighed 170 when I got married. I definitely want to be lower than that. I guess the threat of steroids always has me on edge. Best wishes with your goal. I, myself, hope to be off medical hold soon. I need to go a week without pouchitis symptoms. Otherwise I will have to go back on antibiotics, etc.


Quote:
Originally Posted by lizziewhan25
oh ya ladies.....another question......im going on vacation in 1 1/2 weeks and ill be gone for 8 days......every single meal will be eaten out.....we have continental breakfast in the AM and then have to find our own lunch and dinner....we will be going to sea world and the zoo and just walking around downtown san antonio.....and suggestions for staying on plan? thanks

We take a lot of little trips so here is what I do. I put my waters in a backpack along with quart-sized bags for every meal. Each bag has a paper cup, a spoon, a supplement, and my pills in it. You can also have a ziplock of melba toast in your bag to replace rolls, etc. I always seem to do real well on a continental breakfast. You can get toast and a boiled eggs usually. Of course, I cannot eat salads, but I'm sure most places will have them. Just bring your own salad dressing (MRC or Wishbone Spritzer). I also pack a little plastic container with a lid and mix up MRC pudding every night. I bring a baby whisk along to mix it. We travel so much that I usually keep several of these ziplock bags handy so I can grab them and run. I even do this if I am going to be out shopping all day. It works for me and makes it so much easier to stay OP.


Which item on iherb is like MRC6? I forgot. Welcome newbies! Where is Jant?
Have a great MRC day!

[chopingirl]

oreoparent - I'm glad to see that you're back and posting! I just read your post about steroids, and sure didn't mean to minimize your steroid experience. I think there are lots of different kinds of steroids, and the one that I've been on didn't cause the weight gain that I was expecting. I know that if I hadn't been able to stick to the MRC plan, I would have easily put on 5-10 lbs. also. It was totally the hunger factor - I can't even describe how hungry I've been. I do, however, know exactly how you feel about having to do the steroids, though! ...not fun in ANY way!

[oreoparent]

YEP! Hunger is bad. I think the main problem is I was on 60 mg of steroids for about 5 years. It messed up my metabolism (and a whole bunch of other things) and now when my body gets a little amount is starts ballooning with water. Glad you are not on a high dose for long-term. Have a great MRC day!

[Goal4Life]

I have a silly question. If we eat hardboiled eggs and only eat the whites, how many eggs can we eat? I am on the beige menu. Would it be 3 b/c it is only the egg whites?

[Rocki]

I'm pretty sure it's 3 (according to my green menu). It says 2 eggs or 1 egg and 1 oz of cheese or 3 egg whites.

[map08]

(From the last blog site- I didn't know it had moved on already!!)
Boy you guys move fast! I am back from my getting my wisdom teeth out- (OUCH!). I am slowly getting back to eating fully on program. More eggs and less meat still though.

ALSO~ I signed the 10 pound board yesterday! YAY!

1. Does anyone know of cheaper online places to buy protein drinks? I saw mydietshopz dot com, just looking for alternatives.

2. Is unsweetened applesauce okay to substitute for your fruit? It just has apples, water, and Vit C lited as an ingredient?

3. I am not sure what is classified as "hard cheese"- does anyone have a list of tasty new cheeses I can try??

[Finz]

(From the last blog site- I didn't know it had moved on already!!)
Boy you guys move fast! I am back from my getting my wisdom teeth out- (OUCH!). I am slowly getting back to eating fully on program. More eggs and less meat still though.

ALSO~ I signed the 10 pound board yesterday! YAY!

1. Does anyone know of cheaper online places to buy protein drinks? I saw mydietshopz dot com, just looking for alternatives.

2. Is unsweetened applesauce okay to substitute for your fruit? It just has apples, water, and Vit C lited as an ingredient?

3. I am not sure what is classified as "hard cheese"- does anyone have a list of tasty new cheeses I can try??

Congrats on the 10lb board :D
I buy my protein drinks at Dietdirect.com. I LOVE them. Free shipping on orders over 79$ AND if you enter the code SAVE10 at checkout you automatically get 10% off! They have all the drinks there, including pink lemonade, pineapple, gelatins, fiber plus, protein bars and the drink concentrates--the only thing they don't have there are the Meal Replacement shakes & those ready-to-serve creamy drinks that come in a pack of 6 (I can't think of what the "offical" name of them is!). AND you get three free samples of your choice with every order. I just placed an order for 9 boxes of drinks (and my 3 free samples) and the total was $80.91--so $9.00 a box. I've got several friends that also use them and have been as pleased as I've been with them.

[Rocki]

ALSO~ I signed the 10 pound board yesterday! YAY!
Congrats on the 10lb board, WOOHOO!!
1. Does anyone know of cheaper online places to buy protein drinks? I saw mydietshopz dot com, just looking for alternatives.
I ordered from mydietshopz.com but I don't know of any other place, other than Ebay and those auctions go as high, or higher, than you can get them at MRC

2. Is unsweetened applesauce okay to substitute for your fruit? It just has apples, water, and Vit C lited as an ingredient?
Don't know about this, sorry!

3. I am not sure what is classified as "hard cheese"- does anyone have a list of tasty new cheeses I can try??
I'm not sure about new cheeses but we like edam, gouda and the normal swiss (not sure if that's hard), chedder & colby jack


My answers to your post:).

[map08]

Finz and rockijames-
THanks for the website suggestions... So do you tell the center you do the extra drinks? Would that void the contract? I was planning on buying enough from my center to have my two per day and then using the ones I bought online as extras during the day....

THANKS! :)

[Finz]

Finz and rockijames-
THanks for the website suggestions... So do you tell the center you do the extra drinks? Would that void the contract? I was planning on buying enough from my center to have my two per day and then using the ones I bought online as extras during the day....

THANKS! :)

I don't tell them that I buy them somewhere else. I DID tell them that I had a lot left over from when I did the program a few years ago and also I had a friend who did not like the program and she gave me all that she had --those are both true statements. I do buy the all day weight loss pills from them monthly (at $75/month), Meal Replacement Drinks when needed, and the liquid minerals. So far, no one has said anything to me. It's a huge savings when you add it all up.

[ShineOn]

Hi Everyone :wave: I'm back!! February was a blurr!! I'll give you the cliff notes. Closed on our new house at the end of Jan. Put our house on the market 1 Feb. Sold it to the first people who looked on 5 Feb. Left for cruise on 6 Feb - 15 Feb while our contractor was knocking out walls on our fixer upper. Worked around the clock for 1 week on the new house painting and cleaning. Moved liked crazy during the second week back and closed on the old house on the 28th Feb - Phew!! Now the food confessions. Was a very, very bad girl on the cruise. Ate, drank & took lots of naps - notice, there was no mention of exercise here. Got back and wi - gained 10 lbs! Lost 7 the first week. 2.5 the second and did a wi this morning - down another 6 lbs!! I got to sign the 60 lbs board today :broc::broc::dancer::dancer::cheer:!! I was down 15.5" for the month and down a total of 63.75"!! I think the only reason I recovered from the bad food choices was all the moving! My legs were jello by the end of each day (we worked from the crack of dawn until midnight - 1am for 17 days straight!!

I started trying to catch up this weekend on the threads. Made it all the way through #9, but I'm still on page 38 on #10. Figured I better check in before donuts sent out a search party!! :hug:

And yes, donuts, I have started to get the "your not going to lose anymore weight are you?" questions. I think they are seriousely concerned though. For the ones who are persistant, I just say "I still have some belly fat that my doctor is concerned about, I'm almost done." Most people know that belly fat is the most dangerous to your health. I did get into the size 14's (I started at Labor Day in a tight 22W). I went in to get my hair done today and my hair dresser told me the pants looked too big on me. Wow! I was a 12 when I got married and weighed about 150 ish - didn't own a scale. It is fun getting the extra attention. Went to our all company meeting, which is only held twice a year. Most people hadn't seen me since I started. I felt like a rock star :o

March 14th is the end of my contract. I'm still pretty far away from the 180 mark, so I'm definately going to re-sign. My BMI will still be out of the healthy range at 180, so I think I might adjust down to 165. My lowest healthy weight is 145, so I still think this will be healthy. I just don't know what 180 or 165 will look like on me so I'm trying to remain flexible. BTW, I hit the 199.8 mark on my person scale. I about fainted. I haven't been to WON-DER-LAND in a couple decades!!

Glad to see so many new names on here. Glad to be back to posting :D I missed you all (great to see you back Ms love bug, aka Texdoc)

[oreoparent]

Donuts,
How much Beta Alanine do you take? Do you take it daily or just before or after exertion? I need partial knee replacements - I walk with a cane. I sometimes get extreme leg cramps in my calves - especially when standing or walking for more than an hour. I am taking a potassium supplement. I saw some other types of supplelements for leg cramps at the pharmacy, but was not sure what to take. I sometimes cannot sleep because these leg cramps are so bad. Would be glad for any info you can give. You are an inspiration to me.

[Goal4Life]

Yeahhh..ShineOn....You are back, wow you were extremely busy. It sounds like you recovered from it all so well. Probably most of that cruise weight was water, so as soon as you hopped on program again, you were able to get rid of it! Congrats on the personal scale victory of 199! Awesome job!
We all missed you!

[graduatethin]

ShineOn!! I have been wondering about you, I have even gone so far as to look for your name on the sign up sheet at the center. I am glad to hear you are doing so well, but wow! you have been busy. Glad you are back! Congrats on the 60 pound board!! YOU ROCK!!!!

Oreoparent: Do you use the liquid minerals? I was having terrible cramps in my feet and calves, but as long as I keep taking the liquid minerals, I am much better. Just a thought.

I have a little reason to celebrate too: Whoo hoo!! I signed the 50 pound board tonight and reached my goal. I actually lost 1.5 this week. So, my goal of 50 by my 50th birthday is mine!! I am so happy!!

[graduatethin]

Can't believe that is my ticker!!! Just had to share! You all have to believe it will happen for you! What a feeling! I will be even happier when it has been a year and I am still at this weight!

[ieduc8em]

Way to go graduatethin:bravo::cp::bravo::cp::hat::dancer:

We are all celebrating with you!:encore::woohoo:

[mirihawk]

Can't believe that is my ticker!!! Just had to share! You all have to believe it will happen for you! What a feeling! I will be even happier when it has been a year and I am still at this weight!
This is SUCH great news, congratulations! I am 47 and my goal is to be Fit at Fifty... and I'm starting to believe it will really happen!

[3monkeysmomma]

Congrats graduate! :bravo: I can't wait to be where you are. :D

3monkeysmomma

[Finz]

I have a little reason to celebrate too: Whoo hoo!! I signed the 50 pound board tonight and reached my goal. I actually lost 1.5 this week. So, my goal of 50 by my 50th birthday is mine!! I am so happy!!


WHOO-HOO!! A huge CONGRATS!!:cp::cp::cp::cp::cp:

[angierue]

ShineOn - I don't know you but WOOHOO on signing that board and for recovering so quickly from your cruise. I'm in Vegas next week and am soooo worried about what that will do. I'm kind of trying to prepare myself by saying that I'll gain 5 lbs (mostly water, hopefully) and will be able to lose it quickly.

Donuts - Thanks for the info on the muscle soreness! I will have to pick some of that up asap! And I know it's hard but try not to let the "concern" of others effect your goals. These are YOUR goals, not theirs. Remember that first packet of information you got when you started that talked about the "Feeders"? While they might not be trying to feed you, there's a good chance that your success could have some people taking a closer look at themselves. We're always here to tell you to keep on keepin' on so remember that when you think the pressure of others might be getting you down a bit. :)

graduatethin - That is just awesome! So happy that you made your goal!!! That is just awesome. :)

Ugh, I know I'm skipping people y'all post so quickly! :)

Thanks for the comments on my blog. That picture still gets me cracking up.

Met with the trainer again today and we worked on upper body. I swear, I have so much energy when I'm done! I just love it. I'm meeting him again at 6am on Thursday. This is a personal challenge for me because I am a total night owl and have the WORST time getting up in the morning. I truly hope I can get myself out of bed and to the gym. I will be setting every alarm in my house to make sure I do!!! :D

Got a business luncheon tomorrow and I have no idea what the menu is. I'm sure there will be chicken (there's always chicken at these things) but I hope there's plenty of veggie choices. I'm probably going to take a fat/carb blocker as well just in case and I'll grab a meal replacement bar before I leave the house in the morning too.

Good luck to whoever weighs in tomorrow!

[ShineOn]

:D Thanks for all the sweet comments. I missed ya'll too. Goal4Life, you have been rockin!! As I was reading through thread 9, I could see how far you came because your ticker showed your now weight. You are losing so fast - I'm really excited for you. graduatethin, hey Bellevue buddy :wave: I am jumping up and down and clapping for you right now :dancer:!!! I'm so excited that you hit the 50 lb mark before your 50th. You looked fantastic last month. You'll have to teach me how to shop in the skinny section now! angierue, well, you may not "know me" but we're family now! You really sound like you are getting the hang of this quickly. I've been on plan since 31 Aug, but I've taken 3 cruises and had a business trip to Vegas during this time! Some Vegas tips . . . Every restaurant was wonderful to me. There was nothing on the menu I could eat. I would descretly tell the wait staff that I was on a "restrictive diet due to health reasons". That was the magic phrase! They either recommended items on the menu or they custom made meals for me. They have so many fancy restaurants now and just sauce up everything. I would tell them I could eat chicken or fish with no butter or salt - but spices were ok. If it was lunch, I would request a fruit, even if it wasn't on the menu. And I brought melba toast for dinner. I had some wonderful grilled fish and some teriffic meals. I took some meal replacement bars for breakfast, but tried to eat a hard boiled egg or cheese sticks too. Pack your Melba toast and HNS. Then, we walked everywhere. We actually walked faster than the cabs could travel. I came back after 5 days and had lost 2.5 lbs. You'll do great, just get the wait staff on your side. It sounds like your blog is a hoot. I'll have to check it out!

Business has been teriffic in our area. My husband and I have listed 3 houses and sold 4 since Friday. Will I ever get to unpack :dizzy: . . . . . Good night all.

[3monkeysmomma]

I haven't gotten my menu yet but I will be on the biege one, I am just curious if we can have sweet potatoes? Can anyone tell me?

3monkeysmomma

[oreoparent]

ShineOn!! I have been wondering about you, I have even gone so far as to look for your name on the sign up sheet at the center. I am glad to hear you are doing so well, but wow! you have been busy. Glad you are back! Congrats on the 60 pound board!! YOU ROCK!!!!

Oreoparent: Do you use the liquid minerals? I was having terrible cramps in my feet and calves, but as long as I keep taking the liquid minerals, I am much better. Just a thought.

I have a little reason to celebrate too: Whoo hoo!! I signed the 50 pound board tonight and reached my goal. I actually lost 1.5 this week. So, my goal of 50 by my 50th birthday is mine!! I am so happy!!

Yep, I use liquid minerals everyday.
Congrats on your goal grauatethin! Congrats on reaching onederlad Shineon. I hope to be there soon!

[Goal4Life]

I haven't gotten my menu yet but I will be on the biege one, I am just curious if we can have sweet potatoes? Can anyone tell me?

3monkeysmomma

no, sweet potatoes are a carb, and the beige menu only has a really small list of starch/carbs to choose from, and unfortunately there are no forms of potatoes on it. I actually don't think any of the menus have potatoes on them. I think you get those back in stabilization/maintence.

[MidwestChick]

Hi all - I want to thank every single person on this board who shares their struggles and successes because it has helped me focus on doing this diet right this time. I started last fall and quit after a week due to my job - had to travel, etc. I restarted on Saturday 2/23 for 3 days preconditioning and started the program Tuesday 2/26. Weighed in yesterday 3/4 and I've lost 7 1/2 lbs! Several times when I'd have a craving I'd come sign on and read some posts and be uplifted and tell myself to not give in - and so now I am feeling like I'm off and running!

Thank you all - this is a fantastic board!

[chopingirl]

oreoparent - I also use the Liquid Minerals daily. Although MRC has you take 2 oz., I actually went up to 3 oz. because I was having such terrible feet and leg cramps at night. I asked one of the girls at my center what to do about them, and she told me to go up to 3 oz., but not any more than that. I have been using the 3 oz. for months, and it has not helped at all, either. I was up 4 times last night with debilitating cramps. I also would like to know what to do.

[Rocki]

Someone asked if I told the MRC reps that I bought HNS from other sources. I just purchased Monday night and I haven't been to the center. However, I won't be telling them about it. I'm already getting a little irritated about them trying to sell me something different everytime I'm there (thermalgenics?? is the latest pitch). As long as I stick to my contract and buy enough from the center I'm not going to worry about it. I only bought HNS online that were the same as ones in the center so I don't have to worry about the ingredients differing.

Oh, 3monkeysmomma..I don't think there are sweet pototatoes, but I'm on the green menu, so maybe your menu will be different. As far as I know there are no potatoes.

Shineon..Way to go with your trip and move and all that's going on and still losing what you have! That's so motivating and encouraging for the rest of us as well.

Graduatethin..YAYYAYAYAYAYYA on the 50lbs. That is so awesome. Your ticker looks great!

I have a couple of questions.. Why can't I have coffee?? I'm really struggling with this one. Also, do the chocolate crispies replace anything or are we just allowed to have 2 a week as a snack?

[namaste]

ShineOn Welcome Back!:hug: I've missed you!!! Glad you had fun on your cruise, and boy.... you have been really busy! :dizzy: Sounds like everything is going your way with work, and home! Congrats! Also!!!!!!!!!!! BIG Congrats on getting to Onderland!:congrat: I'm so happy for you!

GraduateThin :bravo: You made it! Congrats! This is just great!!! You are there!!!! :woohoo:

Angierue I just wanted to say that I love your blog! It is great!!!! :cp:

MidwestChick 7 1/2 lbs!!! Great job!!! You are moving! :carrot:

I had class and WI last night. I got to sign the 70lb board so that was pretty nice! So, lately I just have been struggling and I have been trying to find a way to say it here but it's hard for me to even really understand so putting it down is difficult. I'm going to try so I apologize if I go on.... My issue prior to joining MRC was that I didn't eat regular meals, then when I would I ended up eating too much and making bad decisions about it (ie wouldn't eat breakfast and lunch, but would get home and have 2 plates of pasta and ice cream, etc...) So, I joined MRC and I have done fine. Never cheated, or ate off plan (did exactly what I was told :book2:). A couple of weeks ago, I did metaquick for 7 days and it was so easy. I loved it. I was never hungy, I could have done it for a month. The issue was when it was time to go back to eating again, I starting skipping meals, not eating protein, etc. Ever since I haven't been able to totally get back to normal. Basically, one day I would "forget" to eat breakfast and lunch or not eat the protein for lunch or fall asleep before dinner, or things along those lines.... I'm almost there.... so far only 1 day this week did I not eat protein for lunch and the other day I had a shake for dinner instead of skipping it altogether but I feel defeated. I have some serious issues with the fact that I "thought" I had this whole thing all figured out (my mind, my body, my ego) and I was just moving on through this program and then I realized now that I don't have anything figured out at all!! I still have the same behavior issues I had before! I'm really frustrated, and angry with myself. I like to be in control, and I feel like I'm not. I could go on and on about how I "feel" about myself right now, but it's self-defeating and I need to move on. It's just very disappointing to realize that the issues are all still in the shadows lurking.

Thanks for letting me vent. Any ideas for helping me move on would be great because this is getting to be a bit of a pity party and again, I'm the only one attending the party.... it's kind of lonely! :gift:

[angierue]

ShineOn - Thanks for welcoming me to the family. :) I truly love it here. Those tips on Vegas are PERFECT and just what I needed. I am always so afraid of asking for things special but I guess I need to get over that!

Rocki - You can have coffee, just make sure it's decaf. I know it's tough but once you get past the first week or so, you should be ok. And I believe the chocolate crispy things replace a creamy and one of your snacks. They are actually an HNS, I believe.

[Finz]

I've got a question--what is the metaquick menu? I've never seen it (yet)at my MRC.

[angierue]

Nameste - I wish I had some words of wisdom for you. I can relate to those bad eating patterns from before. I regularly would skip breakfast, sometimes lunch and then would eat horrible for dinner. My biggest downfall was eating out. I did it literally 7-10 times a week. And I never made good choices even when I was on my own plan before joining MRC.

I'm the opposite of an emotional eater. When I'm depressed or down, I don't eat. I actually went three days with nothing but Coke Zero several months ago. Of course, the minute I ate again it was something terrible (probably McDonald's).

I fear going off the plan so badly that I actually obsess about my food. I sit here and watch my boss, who doesn't have that much to lose, eat 2 burritos last week and be inconsistent with his HNS's and supplements and STILL lose 4 lbs while I only had a single tortilla chip dipped in cheese and I lost 1/2 a lb.

It's all about training yourself and keeping yourself on a routine. It's hard and it's easy to slip but just try and look at how far you have come. 70 lbs! That's a whole person (albeit a young one). Try just focusing on one thing at a time. Make it a priority to eat breakfast every day. One of the things I do is try and prepare my breakfast early. I've really fallen for the cottage cheese with lemon chiffon pudding mix so I make it up at night and put it in a ziploc container so I can grab it on my way out the door. Or I'll boil up some eggs and have them peeled and ready to grab. And I try to make sure I have some meal replacement bars handy just in case I'm really running late (LOVE the caramel peanut ones, btw).

You can do this! :)

[namaste]

I've got a question--what is the metaquick menu? I've never seen it (yet)at my MRC.

They have an actual menu for it, and you'd have to request it for the all the info but basically it's a meal replacement (bar or shake) at breakfast/lunch then dinner (but the dinner has a reduction in choices). You can do it for a minimum of 3 days and maximum of 7 days.

[namaste]

Nameste - I wish I had some words of wisdom for you. I can relate to those bad eating patterns from before. I regularly would skip breakfast, sometimes lunch and then would eat horrible for dinner. My biggest downfall was eating out. I did it literally 7-10 times a week. And I never made good choices even when I was on my own plan before joining MRC.

I'm the opposite of an emotional eater. When I'm depressed or down, I don't eat. I actually went three days with nothing but Coke Zero several months ago. Of course, the minute I ate again it was something terrible (probably McDonald's).

I fear going off the plan so badly that I actually obsess about my food. I sit here and watch my boss, who doesn't have that much to lose, eat 2 burritos last week and be inconsistent with his HNS's and supplements and STILL lose 4 lbs while I only had a single tortilla chip dipped in cheese and I lost 1/2 a lb.

It's all about training yourself and keeping yourself on a routine. It's hard and it's easy to slip but just try and look at how far you have come. 70 lbs! That's a whole person (albeit a young one). Try just focusing on one thing at a time. Make it a priority to eat breakfast every day. One of the things I do is try and prepare my breakfast early. I've really fallen for the cottage cheese with lemon chiffon pudding mix so I make it up at night and put it in a ziploc container so I can grab it on my way out the door. Or I'll boil up some eggs and have them peeled and ready to grab. And I try to make sure I have some meal replacement bars handy just in case I'm really running late (LOVE the caramel peanut ones, btw).

You can do this! :)

You and I are more alike than different. As I was reading your response, it sounded just like me. I too, obsess about my food also and do not eat when I get stressed.... I sleep! Thank you for your advice. Today, I have all of my food (prepared, like you) and am ready for my day. I just am truly fearful right now, and I can do this (as you said). I think I'm at a new point in my weight loss, and I'm coming to terms with it.... I'm accepting that I don't have all the answers (my ego), but it sure is nice to have somewhere like this forum. It's somewhere that you can be completely honest, and have people that understand exactly where you are coming from! :hug:

[zackzmom]

Blueeyedangel &3monkeysmomma,
My husband and I lived in Floydada for 4 years and then we moved to Plainview for 3 years. We now live outside of Abilene, but we both feel like that area is home. It is good to hear from "neighbors".
I go for my first wi today. I know that everyone likes to wi in the am, but I have to go after work and it is about a 45 min drive. So it is about 5 when i get there. I hope I have lost. I have made myself stay away from the scales. So what ever it is will be a complete suprise. I was watching what I ate and walking before I came to MRC, so I don't know if I will see BIG #s. But I know that I feel better. thanks for all your help over the past week.
I just started the blue menu. Does anybody know if you can have sandwich meat for your protein? I know they said no processed food. Does that count as processed?
Wish me luck. I will let ya know how it goes.:flow1:

[alexiah]

Hey everyone just got reading done reading all the posta and wow there is so much catching up to do ! Well i started back on plan yesterday after being off since jan 27 of this year , my 2nd surgery last friday went well and i am soooo much better i cant believe i had so much problems with the gallbladder surgery but i am so glad its all over and i feel great!! I am so glad to be back and see so many newbies that is awsome! I do have to admit i was supposed to start back on monday but i ate off plan , it has not been easy getting back on plan but i know i can, i really want to be healthier so i know i will do this i will weigh in on sat after being on medical hold all this time so i am not sure what they will do? My contract is up on the 5 of april but since i have been sick all this time i am not sure if they will extend my contract? Well i will check in later and again its great to be back!!

[Finz]

They have an actual menu for it, and you'd have to request it for the all the info but basically it's a meal replacement (bar or shake) at breakfast/lunch then dinner (but the dinner has a reduction in choices). You can do it for a minimum of 3 days and maximum of 7 days.
Thanks for explaining that - do you do it for a special reason, like to break a plateau?

[namaste]

Thanks for explaining that - do you do it for a special reason, like to break a plateau?

I just wanted to try it, and see how it was. I think, yes... it would definitely be used to break a plateau though. They said you could do it for 1 week every month.

[chopingirl]

namaste - I think we all have issues - which is how we got to be overweight in the first place. IMHO, I think food is a replacement for something else that is missing our lives. Just as an alcoholic, or a drug addict, or a gambling addict, or a shopaholic (my newest addiction) has issues, I have always hated it that food is my addiction. As food has now become fuel (which several of us are finding out), then that drive to fill empty places has to be transferred UNLESS we figure out what got us here in the first place. I am still having health issues, so when I got some bad news about my health last week, I went shopping (rather than stuffing myself with everything in my pantry) which I would have previously done. I spent money that I didn't have, and the guilt is overpowering (as eating everything I could used to be.) I talked with my counselor at MRC yesterday about just this issue, and she asked me if I had a hobby that I could immerse myself into. I do have a new hobby, and am doing just that (much healthier than spending money or eating everything I can.) We are worth the time and effort it takes to get to the root cause of our overeating - one of the reasons that I have loved every footstep taken in pursuit of a healthier me with MRC. I think naming the "elephant in the room" is definitely the first step, and I think just your writing down how you are feeling is SOOO healthy! My hat is off to you - you are so much healthier on your journey to welldom...and it is just that - a journey.

[Rocki]

Namste..This might sound stupid or not even make sense. However, my neighbor is very overweight and has been struggling for some time. She lost 60+ lbs doing a MediZone weight loss plan (shots, pills, diet). What she told me that I have to keep telling myself is this. This "diet" is not a temporary thing. It's FOREVER! We know we have to continue on some sort of regimented meal plan for the rest of our lives in order to maintain a good, healthy weight and not revert back to our old ways. So, no matter how well you think you're doing and how successful we are on the program, there will always be another day to start over and do it all again. Some days you'll have it licked and others will be like starting over from the beginning. It's hard to not beat yourself up over the self presumed failures we may have. We just have to stick to the positive self-talk and know that this can be done. Look at what you've done so far! You're amazing! I'm so proud of you and happy for the weight loss you've achieved (even though I'm fairly new here and don't really know much about you).

Hopefully this made some sense. I'm pretty new to the diet (one month today) and have only lost 10 lbs. I know it's better than gaining or even staying the same, but I thought I knew what I was doing and now I've been stagnant for over a week. I'm starting to be more hungry and have more cravings and not drink the water, etc, etc, etc....I just have to make myself get back on track and know this is permanent.

[namaste]

namaste - I think we all have issues - which is how we got to be overweight in the first place. IMHO, I think food is a replacement for something else that is missing our lives. I think naming the "elephant in the room" is definitely the first step, and I think just your writing down how you are feeling is SOOO healthy! My hat is off to you - you are so much healthier on your journey to welldom...and it is just that - a journey.

I agree, we all do have issues. I even understand where and when mine came into play. I've been really thinking about it a lot lately, journalling about it, talking with the counselors, and going to the classes... even talking to my parents about it (the hard part). I think honestly, because I "named the elephant in the room" it might be what I'm dealing with the most right now, and that is possibly why I'm having the issues I am. I'm not positive but it seems like I'm preoccupied with how this "food" issue came about, why it manifested the way it did, how I'm overcoming it, etc.... I think it's a good thing, and a bad thing sometimes. It's almost too much to handle at times. But I also realize that dealing with this stuff is how and why I will be successful this time, and why I wasn't previously.

I love you guys.:hug:

[gottagetfit]

Hopefully this made some sense. I'm pretty new to the diet (one month today) and have only lost 10 lbs. I know it's better than gaining or even staying the same, but I thought I knew what I was doing and not I've been stagnant for over a week. I'm starting to be more hungry and have more cravings and not drink the water, etc, etc, etc....I just have to make mysefl get back on track and know this is permanent.
Interesting post! I too have been on the the diet for just a little over a month - on day 32 I had lost 9.5 pounds but then gained 2 back early this week. I too believe that we have to think long term and forever in order to get at a healthy weight and maintain that. What I get most frustrated about is the amount of money that I spend and don't seem to be losing any faster than if just eating the same amounts without all of the pills and supplement drinks. I am definately in a dillema as to if I continue or try to do it just counting calories.::?:

[namaste]

Namste..This might sound stupid or not even make sense. However, my neighbor is very overweight and has been struggling for some time. She lost 60+ lbs doing a MediZone weight loss plan (shots, pills, diet). What she told me that I have to keep telling myself is this. This "diet" is not a temporary thing. It's FOREVER! We know we have to continue on some sort of regimented meal plan for the rest of our lives in order to maintain a good, healthy weight and not revert back to our old ways. So, no matter how well you think you're doing and how successful we are on the program, there will always be another day to start over and do it all again. Some days you'll have it licked and others will be like staring over from the beginning. It's hard to not beat yourself up over the self presumed failures we may have. We just have to stick to the positive self-talk and know that this can be done. Look at what you've done so far! You're amazing! I'm so proud of you and happy for the weight loss you've achieved (even though I'm fairly new here and don't really know much about you).

Hopefully this made some sense. I'm pretty new to the diet (one month today) and have only lost 10 lbs. I know it's better than gaining or even staying the same, but I thought I knew what I was doing and not I've been stagnant for over a week. I'm starting to be more hungry and have more cravings and not drink the water, etc, etc, etc....I just have to make mysefl get back on track and know this is permanent.

No, it doesn't sound stupid and it all makes sense. Thank you! It is a complete change in the way you live, and eat. It's like that book title.... "life is hard, food is easy" and it's absolutely true. It can't ever just be a "diet" or it won't work. Thank you for being proud of me. I'm proud of you!!! You are doing a terrific job! You've not "only" lost 10 lbs, YOU'VE LOST 10 LBS!!!! 20 FISTFULS OF FAT! Gone forever! We are all here for eachother.... through the good and the bad, right! :hug:

[chopingirl]

rockijames and gottagetfit - Every single one of us on here has hit a plateau - my first one was about a month after I started. (Well, I don't know that donuts ever hit a plateau, but I think all us girls have! :D) (And I think I speak for us all - because I was avidly reading about everyone else's plateaus on here at that time.) Your body is taking all of those fat cells and filling them up with water right now - then will just deflate and off will fall the pounds. The guarantee with MRC is that if you follow the plan, they guarantee that you will lose the weight - and that's exactly what they mean!!! They will stick with you and help you figure out exactly what to do to maximize your weight loss! I remember the frustration when I plateaued (and I think I had three big ones along the way), but you guys just stick with it! It really does work.

[Meemo]

Wow, a lot of catching up to do! I posted this on the last thread, but in case no one is going there anymore...
I'm WAY behind (after spending about 36 hrs at the hospital w/my daughter & son-in-law but they have a beautiful baby girl to show for it ). Trying to catch up so won't post much, but this caught my eye - be sure you don't eat the same amount of dried pineapple as you're allowed with fresh - without the water the sugars are really concentrated so you can't eat nearly as much. Probably at least half as much as you're allowed of the fresh. You could check the calorie count to see how much of the dried would amount to the same calories of fresh.

[zackzmom]

Everyone is one this site for a reason. What everyone has said today is exactly what I need. It is a life change. It is not a quick fix. I have taken the pills and lost 30# in 8 wks. But look where I am now. Right back where I started. This is going to be forever. I started MRS to change me. To change the way I see life and food. I need to be taught how to view food as fuel. I have been on hte plan to 7 days and I already see how the old way I ate was hurting me. I can live and feel better on less food and healthier food. It's not easy yet. I get hungry and cranky. But I think long term. I also have a great husband who won't let me go OP. I want to be healthy. I want to be active and not tired all the time. And I want to be hot for my husband. I know we all can do this. Day by Day!! One WI at a time.
Thanks for all the support. I talk to my husband about what you guys say all the time. My own little support group. Thanks
zackzmom:hug:

[Meemo]

As for the ketosis..they told me that I should be between trace and small. If you're in ketosis then your body is burning it's own fat stores for fuel (that's what your body prefers to do and what is best health wise, according to everything I've read). I think the square on the bottle is the second from the left (not the faintest, negative, but the next one over). I usually measure between that and small, except today I was negative b/c of my off program day! :(.

Update on Mydietshopz.com. I placed an order with them tonight. I know I'll need to get some more HNS from my center but I saved almost $40 by purchasing online. If you spend more than $70 shipping is free, and if you spend more than $150 you get 10% off your total order. Their drinks are all $9.95 right now and the chocolate mini crisps are $8.95 until March 6. I got 15 boxes of drinks and creamies (including one of the mini crisps) and I spent $137. If you figure the boxes are 5 for $55 and my tax is 7% I would have spent $176.55. I'll get 5 more boxes at the center this week to save money buying in bulk but I'll buy the flavors the website doesn't have (peach-mango, pink-lemonade, pineapple). I'll let you know how it goes.

Regarding ketosis - it does mean that you're burning fat. It doesn't necessarily mean that you're burning BODY fat, if you're eating a lot of dietary fat that would show up as well. But if you're OP on the MRC plan you wouldn't be eating enough fat for that to show up. (I'm a veteran low-carber so have read a lot about it.) Having said that, I rarely showed up as positive for ketosis, in fact I think there was only one time that I showed just a trace, otherwise I was always negative. I think we eat enough sugary/starchy carbs to keep most of us from really going into serious ketosis.
My online source for the HNS is bodyandhealthessentials dot com (in case 3FC tries to filter the site). The more you buy the cheaper you can get it, and shipping is free. Going in with a couple of friends I think we've gotten it down to about $7/box. Just wish they had the wildberry flavor. They carry a wildberry but as I've mentioned, it isn't the same, it's more of a meal replacement & it's a creamy pink color. And not as tasty as wildberry (which was always my favorite).
But like I said, from now on I'll mix the unflavored whey protein powder with the liquid Crystal Lite. ;)

[Meemo]

I have a personal dilemma I would like to share here with my MRC buddies. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Recently, I've been getting a lot of "you don't need to lose anymore weight" comments. When I tell them I have over 30 more pounds to lose, they look at me like I must be developing some kind of an eating disorder. Ya know, they haven't seen me naked. This could start a head game with me. I could start to believe them, and this could sabotage my weight loss efforts if I let it. Don't get me wrong, I kinda like it when people think I'm at my goal weight already. I just happen to hold my weight well. I have told them I'm still above a 30 BMI. I've lost 35 pounds since my after picture posted on my personal profile. What should I do about this? Please help!


I think you're on the right track with your comment about BMI. Tell them "Thanks, I know I look and feel a LOT better than I did. But this isn't just about my looks, it's about my health & I'm still not in that 'healthy' range where I want to be - I'm getting close, but not quite there yet." I think usually those comments come from concern, occasionally from jealousy! Just keep in mind that you set your goal for a reason, but really, I don't think you'll have a problem with it - you've got an amazing mindset about this and I have no doubts that it'll continue until you reach your goal.

[Meemo]

If I understand correctly, there are 6 weeks of stabilization. I know when I go today I will get some new choices for protein. My counselor said I would be getting peanut butter and nuts back. I am not a big PB fan, but she is so she was real excited. I do like almonds, so I am stocked and ready to go! lol Thanks for the vote of confidence!

LOL, for me, peanut butter is the :devil:! I was so happy to see it back on the menu - but then reality hit, it's a HUGE trigger food for me. I love it on everything, including just a spoon. So I really have to just say no to the PB, which is hard.

[Meemo]

I have a couple of questions.. Why can't I have coffee?? I'm really struggling with this one. Also, do the chocolate crispies replace anything or are we just allowed to have 2 a week as a snack?

You can have coffee, just not caffeine! I NEVER gave up coffee - just get some good decaf. Now if it's the caffeine you're missing, rather than the taste & enjoyment of coffee, the reason they don't want you to have it is that caffeine is, of course, a stimulant and it can be a stimulant for appetite as well. (I go decaf for a different reason, I'm fibrocystic & caffeine can trigger cysts to kinda "balloon" for me.) I know there are people here who never gave up caffeine & did fine. It's one of those YMMV things (Your Mileage May Vary) - if you're desperately missing the caffeine you could try it & see what happens - but if you've already gone with withdrawal & find that you do better without the caffeine, you'll have to withdraw all over again. And that might not be worth it. I'd try a good decaf first - for me, it's become the taste & smell of the coffee that gets me going in the morning, not the caffeine.
The chocolate crispies are a HNS - so they "replace" one of your HNS for the day, including as a snack. I always liked them for traveling - convenient to eat on the road.

[Meemo]

1. Does anyone know of cheaper online places to buy protein drinks? I saw mydietshopz dot com, just looking for alternatives.

2. Is unsweetened applesauce okay to substitute for your fruit? It just has apples, water, and Vit C lited as an ingredient?

3. I am not sure what is classified as "hard cheese"- does anyone have a list of tasty new cheeses I can try??

1. I posted this before but you might've missed it - I now mix up my own with plain whey protein powder & the Crystal Lite in the bottles (sweetened with Splenda, not aspartame). I've tried it with Raspberry, Lemonade & Orange flavors, they come out a little more "creamy" looking than the HNS, but they don't taste bad at all. And a lot cheaper, especially if you can get the Crystal Lite on sale & find a good inexpensive whey protein powder. I haven't really investigated yet.

2. I think they'd consider that canned fruit - although if it doesn't have anything more than apples, water & vitamin C I'd be tempted to try it anyway & see if it makes any difference in your weigh in. (But then I'm one to push the rules a bit anyway so I'm not always the best counselor :devil:)

3. I was never sure about that - I used to eat feta at times although it isn't a hard cheese! (See #2!) I love cheddar so that's what I usually used.

[Meemo]

I've got a question--what is the metaquick menu? I've never seen it (yet)at my MRC.

Unless something's changed, the Shalimar center doesn't recommend it - they feel like it's just too low in calories & a little too much like doing Slimfast or something.

[Meemo]

Can't believe that is my ticker!!! Just had to share! You all have to believe it will happen for you! What a feeling! I will be even happier when it has been a year and I am still at this weight!

Congratulations! It's a beautiful ticker :hug:

[Meemo]

Hey everyone just got reading done reading all the posta and wow there is so much catching up to do ! Well i started back on plan yesterday after being off since jan 27 of this year , my 2nd surgery last friday went well and i am soooo much better i cant believe i had so much problems with the gallbladder surgery but i am so glad its all over and i feel great!! I am so glad to be back and see so many newbies that is awsome! I do have to admit i was supposed to start back on monday but i ate off plan , it has not been easy getting back on plan but i know i can, i really want to be healthier so i know i will do this i will weigh in on sat after being on medical hold all this time so i am not sure what they will do? My contract is up on the 5 of april but since i have been sick all this time i am not sure if they will extend my contract? Well i will check in later and again its great to be back!!

Sorry to hear that you had to have a second surgery but glad you're doing better now :hug:
I don't know for sure, but I think a medical hold is just that - a "hold", and they extend your contract for the amount of time that you were on hold. That's what would make sense to me, anyway.

[bomaze]

Namaste: Any ideas for helping me move on would be great because this is getting to be a bit of a pity party and again, I'm the only one attending the party.... it's kind of lonely

Namaste, I TOTALLY know how you feel. I can only speak from my experience and what I am (still) finding out about myself. It might seem a little psychobabbly but I find it to be true for me. Assuming two sides of me being my childish side and my grown up side...I know the reason I gained weight and it's the same reason that I struggle to not sneak little bites from time to time - my grown up side decides it's just too hard to be in charge and lets that childish side run amuck. Then the childish side decides it really isn't so fun to run amuck and wishes the "adult" would care enough to take charge. Not eating regular meals, eating food that is essentially poison, not exercising and not making an effort to balance my life boils down to one basic thing - me not taking care of me! Who else but an out-of-control, alone child could consume enough food in four years to add 70 pounds of weight! I read a book that brought much of this to light called "The Four Day Win" and although I didn't really follow the diet program (good but I needed to get on board NOW), the explanation she offers in the beginning as to why I struggle so much rang very true. She talks about finding yourself as the "watcher" and making decisions a little bit removed from yourself. Ultimately, I have to make the decision (on an often basis!) to say "Don't worry Bonnie, I will take care of you." This applies whether it's not to make healthy eating choices or to make myself rest or whatever!

K...now I feel like I'm babbling but believe me when I say I SO know where you're coming from :-)

[crested1]

namaste and rockijames...

I completely understand what you both are saying. I too get frustrated and wonder if I am going ot fall back into old patterns. Although I am new to MRC (1 month), I am sure hoping that this is change in lifestyle that I am able to maintain. I am so surprised at how my view of food has changed. Before MRC, my food choices were not good. Give me a choice between a cheeseburger or a salad and the cheeseburger will win 99% of the time. Surprisingly, cravings have not been a problem for me (I am in absolute shock over that!!!). My kids are very supportive, gotta love 'em for helping me resist 'fair food'! My boyfriend, while supportive, could be a bigger cheerleader for me (he's the kind of person that can eat anything and not really gain...and when he needs to drop weight, it's not a big deal)...he has known several people that used the shots and dropped weight very quickly, but IMHO is not a healthy/safe way to do so. I really want to learn to eat well and do what's best for my body. I am thrilled with my 16.5 pounds in 29 days...I've NEVER been able to do that on any other plan EVER! My biggest fear, what pushed me to joining MRC is that both of my parents are overweight, my dad is obese and diabetic, all of his brothers are diabetic and just about any kind of health issue runs in my family...I WANT to be healthy and avoid those issues if I can. I want to be active and have fun with my kids....and I believe it's all possible with this plan. Namaste...I'm gonna be right there next to you with a 70 pound weight loss...you go girl! I think questioning things is perfectly natural...Rockijames...I think we may go to the same center in Brandon...I really like everyone there..although I wonder how some of them can be so darn perky all the time.

Sorry, I'm rambling...but it just seemed that this particular topic really hit home for me, because I often question too much...but, if we didn't ask questions or wonder why am I doing this, we will ultimately fail to make the changes we need to to make this permanent.

crested1 (Kristie)

[Meemo]

Interesting post! I too have been on the the diet for just a little over a month - on day 32 I had lost 9.5 pounds but then gained 2 back early this week. I too believe that we have to think long term and forever in order to get at a healthy weight and maintain that. What I get most frustrated about is the amount of money that I spend and don't seem to be losing any faster than if just eating the same amounts without all of the pills and supplement drinks. I am definately in a dillema as to if I continue or try to do it just counting calories.::?:

This is absolutely a calorie based program. It works because they make up the menus so that most of us won't get hungry on what is essentially a low-calorie program, and because the addition of the HNS helps keep hunger & cravings at bay.
If I were you I'd stick with the program for the amount of time on your contract. Your inches lost are ahead of your lbs, and that can be frustrating when you're weighing in with them & that keeps you focused on the stupid number on the scale. But losing inches is great! The program is working for you, you just don't have that number on the scale to help you see it working yet. But it'll come eventually if you stick with it. Heck, you're paid up anyway, right? Why wouldn't you stick with it through your initial contract, at least? See where you are at the end, then you can make an informed decision about what to do next.

[crested1]

meemo
Congrats on that new little grandbaby of yours...glad you keep checking in...I enjoy reading your posts...

crested1 (Kristie)

[mommato3]

Okay, someone mentioned snacks a while back? Who is getting snacks and what are they? I don't see any "snacks" on my plan, or are you just meaning the HNS's? When I get home from teaching school, I am so hungry and I struggle everyday NOT to eat the snacks my kiddo's are eating. I tell you, some days, those cheetos just call my name! How do you all handle the "snack attack?"

[namaste]

Namaste, I TOTALLY know how you feel. Ultimately, I have to make the decision (on an often basis!) to say "Don't worry Bonnie, I will take care of you." This applies whether it's not to make healthy eating choices or to make myself rest or whatever!


Thank you! I appreciate it, and it wasn't babble to me! It all makes sense, and honestly I love the part about saying to yourself "Don't worry, I will take care of you" because isn't that what we are really asking for? Also, the child/adult roles. I think we all have that. I we need to nurture the child in us (wounded or not) in order to grow.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

[Goal4Life]

Okay, someone mentioned snacks a while back? Who is getting snacks and what are they? I don't see any "snacks" on my plan, or are you just meaning the HNS's? When I get home from teaching school, I am so hungry and I struggle everyday NOT to eat the snacks my kiddo's are eating. I tell you, some days, those cheetos just call my name! How do you all handle the "snack attack?"

The meta-plus menu (the one you get if you are over 250 pounds) has an afternoon snack. I was on this menu in the begininng, then when I dropped to 225, I got the beige menu, which no longer has the afternoon snack, and I believe all other menu colors don't have that afternoon snack either.
But, what we are all probably most referring to, is our HNS's. If you are having major afternoon cravings...you should save your creamy HNS for that time of day. It seems to be more filling and lasts for longer, for me anyway, than the clears.

[namaste]

namaste and rockijames...
I completely understand what you both are saying. I am so surprised at how my view of food has changed. Before MRC, my food choices were not good. Give me a choice between a cheeseburger or a salad and the cheeseburger will win 99% of the time. Surprisingly, cravings have not been a problem for me (I am in absolute shock over that!!!). I am thrilled with my 16.5 pounds in 29 days...I've NEVER been able to do that on any other plan EVER! crested1 (Kristie)

Thank you! You are doing wonderfully! My choices pre-MRC were exactly the same.... I would never have picked a salad! I would go for the worst, greasiest option available! Since MRC, I do not have those cravings either and I'm so happy. Last week, people were discussing the food as fuel topic and I really really feel that way now. I don't see food the same anymore. It's really just to fuel my body now. It's all about choices. I don't know if you attend the classes at MRC but they are just amazing. I go to the finding the connection and behavior modification classes. I think that they have really forced me to search out (and search "in") where my whole issue with food came from and that would not have happened anywhere else.

You should be thrilled, you are doing a fabulous job!

[3monkeysmomma]

Thanks for letting me vent. Any ideas for helping me move on would be great because this is getting to be a bit of a pity party and again, I'm the only one attending the party.... it's kind of lonely! :gift:

namaste, Sorry I don't really have any advice but I can say I totally understand, I have struggled with that myself and I know this time probably won't be much different but all I can do is hope somewhere down the road I learn to get a handle on it and hopefully it will one day be easier to stay away from old habits, maybe this time will be the time I can change the way I eat and look at food for good, I'm at that party alot so you do have company there. :hug:

3monkeysmomma

[mommato3]

I had a small personal victory today (baby steps...). Anyway, today is TAKS testing day. For those of you not in the Great State of Texas, TAKS is our state mandated testing. Anyway, lots of stress related to TAKS, believe you me. Our local PTO provided a "hospitality room" for all the teachers during testing and I DID NOT EVEN GO INTO THAT ROOM! WooHoo! I knew that if I went in, the temptation would be hard. Before, I would have been first in line and chosen one of everything ('cause I wouldn't want to hurt anyone's feelings!). So, I am feeling "empowered" that I was able to make a good choice today. And shouldn't we just work on one day at a time?! Thanks for listening.

[3monkeysmomma]

namaste - I think we all have issues - which is how we got to be overweight in the first place. IMHO, I think food is a replacement for something else that is missing our lives. Just as an alcoholic, or a drug addict, or a gambling addict, or a shopaholic (my newest addiction) has issues, I have always hated it that food is my addiction. As food has now become fuel (which several of us are finding out), then that drive to fill empty places has to be transferred UNLESS we figure out what got us here in the first place. I am still having health issues, so when I got some bad news about my health last week, I went shopping (rather than stuffing myself with everything in my pantry) which I would have previously done. I spent money that I didn't have, and the guilt is overpowering (as eating everything I could used to be.)

Chopingirl,
that is so true about "that drive to fill empty places has to be transferred UNLESS we figure out what got us here in the first place."
I have such an addictive personality, I was a smoker for 20 years until October, I was addicted to dr peppers for about 15 years (quit in January), I was addicted to caffiene (finally off that too) and addicted to sugar (almost off all that), since I can't have any of those I find myself shopping to make myself feel better but I learned to only buy earrings, sounds dorky I know but they aren't that expensive, I don't have to worry if they will fit, and they make me feel pretty and I go home with a "new" something. I know I should just deal with the "things" I just don't have the energy or courage or money. Maybe next time it will transfer to exercise, lol.

zachzmom seems we have alot of neighbors on here, my kids go to church camp in Floydada every year.

3monkeysmomma

[namaste]

maybe this time will be the time I can change the way I eat and look at food for good, I'm at that party alot so you do have company there. :hug:3monkeysmomma

Thank you!:hug:

[mommato3]

I totally believe that yes, we all have issues. And, obviously, something brought us to the points in our lives where we are. But, how do you find what got you there in the first place? I have been doing a lot of reflective thinking, and I don't know what it is that got me here. I hear others talk, or see interviews on TV, and the people can usually pinpoint a time in their life with their obsession with food began. And it is usually something big, like divorce, or parental issues, etc. My life is really pretty boring--my parents have been married, there is no divorce anywhere in my family. I didn't have any big emotional issue when I was young. So, I don't know why I eat (or ate) like I do (or did.) And I am scared, because if I can't find it, how can I fix it? And will I be able to change me lifestyle of eating? I am being treated for depression, and have been for about 10 years, so that may have something to do with it. I just don't know.

[Finz]

I'm WAY behind (after spending about 36 hrs at the hospital w/my daughter & son-in-law but they have a beautiful baby girl to show for it ).

Fantastic news!!! I know you are thrilled :D:D

[namaste]

I had a small personal victory today (baby steps...). Anyway, today is TAKS testing day. For those of you not in the Great State of Texas, TAKS is our state mandated testing. Anyway, lots of stress related to TAKS, believe you me. Our local PTO provided a "hospitality room" for all the teachers during testing and I DID NOT EVEN GO INTO THAT ROOM! WooHoo! I knew that if I went in, the temptation would be hard. Before, I would have been first in line and chosen one of everything ('cause I wouldn't want to hurt anyone's feelings!). So, I am feeling "empowered" that I was able to make a good choice today. And shouldn't we just work on one day at a time?! Thanks for listening.


:congrat:Great job!!!! That's not a small victory, that is a HUGE victory!!!! WHOA!!! :cheer:

[3monkeysmomma]

I had a small personal victory today (baby steps...). Anyway, today is TAKS testing day. For those of you not in the Great State of Texas, TAKS is our state mandated testing. Anyway, lots of stress related to TAKS, believe you me. Our local PTO provided a "hospitality room" for all the teachers during testing and I DID NOT EVEN GO INTO THAT ROOM! WooHoo!


mommato3
Ah yes, the dreaded TAKS day. Two of my kids are taking TAKS today, the youngest isn't old enough yet (she's in 2nd grade, the other two are in 8th and 5th). I put them to bed early, I got up early to fix them eggs and toast (they usually eat at school but the school has so many sugar options, this day they need protein) and I rented that new something wonder emporium movie for after school.
Congrats on staying out of that room!! :carrot::cb::broc::dust:

3monkeysmomma

[3monkeysmomma]

I
I am being treated for depression, and have been for about 10 years, so that may have something to do with it. I just don't know.

I also battle depression, I have tried every antidepressant under the sun, they just don't help me any so I quit trying to find the miracle one. I learned to just fight it head on when it comes. Sometimes I win, sometimes I don't. This last time I didn't win and now I am crawling up out of the ashes but notice "crawling up" being the key. Imho I totally think depression has something to do with it, if you are like me I eat when I am depressed, I don't care, I don't move my body anymore than necessary, I don't care, I sleep anywhere from 10 to 14 hours a day because I don't care. Those are the times when that depression monster wins.

The times when I win this is how...I exercise more as soon as I feel it coming on it really helps it go away, I find something new to be interested in (its amazing how much redecorating I have done to my house), I make some sort of change, something to look forward to etc. I gained 85 in one year while I was going through the worst depression of my life,(gained more since then) I have been trying to get it off ever since, that was about 7 years ago.

I think that alone is enough of a reason to have weight problems, I also don't think there has to be any giant hidden secret to why we are depressed in the first place. Some people have reasons why, things that happened to them. But I think some people are just born to be that way, maybe a chemical embalance or something but definatley born that way, and then there are those that are both, they were born that way and they had stuff happen.
Sorry I tend to rattle sometimes.

3monkeysmomma

[gottagetfit]

THANKS Meemo and Chopingirl! I know, I really need to get it together!! I really appreciate your support as well as EVERYONE on this site!! It's like having this huge new circle of friends!:)

[ShineOn]

Why can't I have coffee??

Rockijames - I'm already 3 pages behind and someone might have already answered this. Coffee is an appetitie stimulate, that's why they don't want you to have it. Also, new research shows that caffeine will make diabetes blood sugar level unstable. I just chose to give up caffeine completely. I'm diabetic, but control my blood levels through diet & exercise - I haven't had to be medicated yet - 7 years and counting! The MRC diet has dramtically affected my blood levels in a very positive way!

[ShineOn]

I have some serious issues with the fact that I "thought" I had this whole thing all figured out (my mind, my body, my ego) and I was just moving on through this program and then I realized now that I don't have anything figured out at all!! I still have the same behavior issues I had before!

Namaste - I have to completely disagree with you. You do not still have the same behavior issues. THIS TIME you are aware of what you are doing. That is a huge step in a positive direction!! You probably wouldn't have thought twice about this in the past. You are in the beautiful process of growth - I just love you! :hug:

[ShineOn]

rockijames and gottagetfit - Every single one of us on here has hit a plateau - my first one was about a month after I started. (Well, I don't know that donuts ever hit a plateau, but I think all us girls have! :D) (And I think I speak for us all - because I was avidly reading about everyone else's plateaus on here at that time.) Your body is taking all of those fat cells and filling them up with water right now - then will just deflate and off will fall the pounds. The guarantee with MRC is that if you follow the plan, they guarantee that you will lose the weight - and that's exactly what they mean!!! They will stick with you and help you figure out exactly what to do to maximize your weight loss! I remember the frustration when I plateaued (and I think I had three big ones along the way), but you guys just stick with it! It really does work.


Well put Kathy!! I would like to add that a plateau means your body is gearing up for another big loss. Sam was the queen of plateau's (pre-baby :)). She would stay steady for 3 weeks, then have a great loss like 8 lbs! Stick with it and don't give in. Just push through it.

[HumbleBee]

Oh, and if anyone can explain the ketosis stuff a little better, I know I'm not the only one that would appreciate it!

Hi angierue,
Sorry if someone already answered this (I'm trying to catch up on the posts). When I asked about the strips I was told to try to use them the same time each day - like when you first wake up. She said not to check after a meal because it will come back negative. (I'm guessing - and only guessing here - that maybe our bodies are working on the food just ingested instead of the fat stores?? Anybody else know?)
So I tested the theory by checking a few times per day and during the day it would be negative, but when I first woke up it would be either trace or small. (don't want more than small)
Also, one work night I didn't get to eat dinner, so I ate when I got home and then went to bed. When I woke up the ketone strip showed negative. Counselor said it was because my body was still working on the meal.
Hope that is of help.
Keep up the great workout!

[ShineOn]

meemo - Congratualtions Grandma!! :congrat: I'm thrilled for you!!
Mommato3 - Wow, that is a huge victory! Congratulations on your one of many behavior changes. Doesn't it feel great?!
Alexia - welcome back! How is your mom doing?

Great discussions going on here. I love the why questions. Mine was simply not taking care of me - a classic female traite. When I started journaling and working with a nutritionlist (pre-MRC), we discovered I would typically go over 7 hours without eating. Of course, when your so hungry, you just grab anything. My will power is super strong IF I eat every 4 - 5 hours. When I get hungry, the demons :devil: come out and I have to fight hard to stay on plan. I've discovered, if I take care of me, I can take care of others better. It's uncomfortable some times to say "sorry, I can't be there for another hour", but if I eat 1st, I do a much better job! I was 20 min late for a contract writing last night. My husband went ahead of me and got started. When I showed up they were all teasing me - DH told them I had to eat first! It didn't take long for the conversation to turn - how great I looked, what am I doing, etc. They can tease all they want, but I know I wouldn't have been focused enough to write a good contract if I had waited until 9:30 to eat!

[HumbleBee]

Can't believe that is my ticker!!! Just had to share! You all have to believe it will happen for you! What a feeling! I will be even happier when it has been a year and I am still at this weight!

Woohoo :woohoo: Congratulations!!!!!! I can't wait to be where you are!!! I know that has to be the most awesome feeling!! :celebrate:

Each week I can't wait to move my ticker down. Sometimes after I'm done reading the posts I go to my ticker and just stare at it and think, "Remember how miserable I was when I first started? Wow, it's great to be where I am now, but can't wait till the finish!" (I know, a little sick but....:))

Thanks for sharing!

[HumbleBee]

Our local PTO provided a "hospitality room" for all the teachers during testing and I DID NOT EVEN GO INTO THAT ROOM! WooHoo! I knew that if I went in, the temptation would be hard. Before, I would have been first in line and chosen one of everything ('cause I wouldn't want to hurt anyone's feelings!). So, I am feeling "empowered" that I was able to make a good choice today. And shouldn't we just work on one day at a time?! Thanks for listening.

Congratulations on clearing that hurdle so beautifully!!! :cb:

[HumbleBee]

I'm WAY behind (after spending about 36 hrs at the hospital w/my daughter & son-in-law but they have a beautiful baby girl to show for it ).

Congratulations Grandma!!!! :congrat:

[HumbleBee]

This is absolutely a calorie based program. It works because they make up the menus so that most of us won't get hungry on what is essentially a low-calorie program, and because the addition of the HNS helps keep hunger & cravings at bay.

Meemo,
have you actually counted the calories you eat in a day...comparing on program to maintenance? I'm curious because I counted my calories the other day and it was between 800 - 900. I didn't realize we were eating that few of calories - I'm usually not a fan of anything below 1200/day.
Just curious.

[blueyedangel]

Can't believe that is my ticker!!! Just had to share! You all have to believe it will happen for you! What a feeling! I will be even happier when it has been a year and I am still at this weight!

How long did it take you to lose the weight?
Yay!!!! For you!!! I wanna be like you!

[graduatethin]

Thanks to everyone that is celebrating with me!! This board rocks- I know I could not have done this without all of you! Meemo- congrats on the new granddaughter!

Blueyedangel: I started at the end of Sept. It went by so fast- you will be there before you know it! Stay strong!

[blueyedangel]

My issue prior to joining MRC was that I didn't eat regular meals, then when I would I ended up eating too much and making bad decisions about it (ie wouldn't eat breakfast and lunch, but would get home and have 2 plates of pasta and ice cream, etc...)



THIS is my problem!!! I'm still preconditioning until this Friday. But, learning to eat 3x a day and drink has been so hard for me. I've never ate like that or drank enough. In my head it would make me gain...but I haven't! I've wi twice and both times my weight has been the same as when I enrolled. I'm so anxious to start losing!!!! You've done amazing!!!

[Raemi13]

Hey there everyone....I'm looking for a little support. I did really great for quite a while when I started MRC, and now, I can't seem to find my motivation anymore. I am very sad and depressed about this. I have found myself falling into old habits, which makes me feel like I'm more on a diet than making life changes.

What can I do to get back on track?

Ever since I had the flu a few weeks ago - I just haven't been able to get back to eating right and working out.

I can do o.k. for a couple of days, but then I just grab a piece of candy like it's nothing....as if it's o.k. for me to do that...even though I know better. I also have been doing a lot of socializing on the weekends, and drinking that dreaded beer. I know I'm not supposed to drink beer...yet I continue to do it. I just get so mad at myself for not having the willpower that I need to do this.

I still have 40+ lbs. to lose, and then be able to maintain that forever. I'm freaking out about maintaining and so scared to get it all back.

I know my words seem to contradict themselves....what do you think is going on inside my mind?!?

I just need some inspiration, or something.

I am already on anti-depressants, so I'm just not sure why I'm so down.

Thanks for listening. You are a great group here.

[blueyedangel]

Hey there ZACKSMOM Looks like you started this about the same time as me & 3monkeysmomma... I'll be a cheerleader for you too!!

They say I can lose 52 pounds before July 4!!! I SO hope so... We'll be traveling to Texas in August - to visit "the sister in law" and other family. I just wanna look better than her! LOL She's not always been very nice. It's great motivation for me! LOL

I just wanted to add... My name is Crystal if you would rather call me that. :-)

[alexiah]

shineon= My mom is doing well thank you so much for asking! As for all of you that have continued to stay op and have great losses CONGRATS! I cant wait to be able to tell my success story. Well i have managed to stay op today (well so far) I am really having a hard time with cravings today! I dont know why im having such a bad day i think it is because i have stayed home allday with my little ones and all the snacks they want i want too! I just had an hns so i hope to feel better soon any advice today has been day 2 for me and i feel like its gonna be a long week..

[oreoparent]

As far as eating habits. . . My parents allowed us to have a "dessert" every night and did not push us to eat fruit. I had a lot of food allergies, so my food was limited. When I was in 11th grade and had worked myself down to a size 8 when BANG! I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. I was put on steroids and eventually was up to 60 mg of steroids. Every time they would try to taper it down, the disease would get worse. I gained about 80 lbs. Not good as a teenager. THEN, I went into remission in Spring of my senior year. I came out of remission right before going off to college.
College was out of town and I kept getting worse. A crazy doctor put me immediately on 60 mg of steroids. I came home for Christmas 50 lbs. heavier. In between my sophomore and junior years I got so sick they thought I would die. My mom got me into MAYO and they tried experimental stuff for a month and then decided they had to remove my colon. At that time I was 250 lbs. The only things I could eat was jello and pretzels.
Well. I spent another 6 months on steroids. Had a temporary ileostomy closed up and tried to lose weight. I was a coaching major, but they would not let me use any equipment because of legal liability stuff. I walked and stretched.
I had gotten down to 170 lbs when I got married, but my dad died the following year and I began some emotional eating. I gained about 30 lbs.

My main problem is trying to eat healthy. With all of my health problems the doctors tell me what not to eat (usually everything that is healthy: vegetables, fruits, etc.). They want me to eat white bread, not wheat, etc. I was heading to a dietitian when I decided to go to MRC. I can only eat about 1/4 of the things on the beige menu. I have had to be creative. When out and about I eat Stage 1 green beans and Stage 2 apples and blueberries baby food. Believe it or not, since I began this, I have been healthier and had more energy than I have had in a long time. I can only have cooked apples or peaches and bananas. I can only eat broccoli, cauliflower and green beans if they are cooked to mush.

OK, here is my point MRC has helped me to see I CAN eat healthy. Before MRC my life was mostly starches, because they are easier to digest. Now I know how to eat healthy. I will probably eat baby food for the rest of my life.

As far as depression, I was on Cymbalta for a while last year (mostly because I went into temporary menopause because I was on Depot Lupron shots) and started going to counseling. I worked through 2 wonderful books. One is called "Boundaries". It helps you create healthy boundaries with families, friends, etc. and ensures that you understand how to respect other's boundaries. The other book has a hokey title: Ten Days To Self Esteem". This book gave me about 10 tools to choose from to help me redirect my thoughts to more rational and logical thinking. Of course, I went slower than "ten days", but it was worth it. I am presently reading "Managing You Emotions" by Joyce Meyer. She has written many thoughts that have helped me, too.

Sorry so long. Don't know if I have ever shared the above info with y'all before. I am so encouraged how you all persevere through difficulties and stick with the MRC plan. You give me hope that I can do it, too.

[mommato3]

I also battle depression, I have tried every antidepressant under the sun, they just don't help me any so I quit trying to find the miracle one. I learned to just fight it head on when it comes. Sometimes I win, sometimes I don't. This last time I didn't win and now I am crawling up out of the ashes but notice "crawling up" being the key. Imho I totally think depression has something to do with it, if you are like me I eat when I am depressed, I don't care, I don't move my body anymore than necessary, I don't care, I sleep anywhere from 10 to 14 hours a day because I don't care. Those are the times when that depression monster wins.

The times when I win this is how...I exercise more as soon as I feel it coming on it really helps it go away, I find something new to be interested in (its amazing how much redecorating I have done to my house), I make some sort of change, something to look forward to etc. I gained 85 in one year while I was going through the worst depression of my life,(gained more since then) I have been trying to get it off ever since, that was about 7 years ago.

I think that alone is enough of a reason to have weight problems, I also don't think there has to be any giant hidden secret to why we are depressed in the first place. Some people have reasons why, things that happened to them. But I think some people are just born to be that way, maybe a chemical embalance or something but definatley born that way, and then there are those that are both, they were born that way and they had stuff happen.
Sorry I tend to rattle sometimes.

3monkeysmomma


3monkeysmomma~
Thank you so much for your words of wisdom. That is what I love about this board. We can come to each other and just say whatever is on our hearts and minds, and someone will respond with "just the right words." It is so nice to know that we are not going through this alone. And you don't rattle!!! You made me look at things in a new way, and that's what I needed today! I think that you and I probably have a lot in common.

[ShineOn]

OreoParent - Wow, thank you for sharing your story. I knew you had health problems, but it really makes you look at things differently. All I have to do is battle my head about healthy eating. You have so much more to deal with and you still manage to stay on program. You were one of the people who truly inspired me when I first started - you still do!

Hi Raemi13! I love your honesty and vulnerability. All I can say is you have to want to be healthy and I know you do. This is a natural rebellion, so you're going to have to kick your own butt :kickbutt: I think it was Donuts that said be careful about going off plan, it's a slippery slope. And yet, a lot of people can indulge here and there and be perfectly fine - like Meemo. I've gone off during the cruises and during the packing/moving process. It's tough going back, but this is the way it will be for the rest of our lives. We'll get more food choices on maintenance, but we'll always need to make good choices. It's ok to go off plan once in a while. The true success is how quickly you get back on! So, just start from the basics. Record every morsal - even if you pop a candy in your mouth. Record you water intake and exercise. Go to the center TWICE a week. Re-take some of the basic classes. Its like riding a bike sister ;) you'll get back on and the last 40 lbs will fly bye. I know you can do it :cheer:

[ShineOn]

Raemi13 - one more thing - look how close you are to ONE-DER-LAND. Push, push, push through it. We're here for you!

[fritochip]

I understand what you are saying as I also have always had a irregular eating pattern...mistakenly thinking that when I skipped breakfast I was 'saving' calories. The only thing I can say is that I think you sort of have to put blinders on and just dig thru this to get to your thin self on the other side. Persevere! Rewards will come!

[alexiah]

Ok ladies i just got done walking/running and i feel great! I made it thru today afterall and thats awsome i guess its just one day at a time right?

Raemi- I know exactly how you feel, i am in the same boat so lets get thru this together you have always been so helpful to me let me be there for you,WE CAN DO THIS and you know what we deserve to be thinner,happier,and healthier. You are in my prayers...have a good night everyone i will check in tomm morning.

[3monkeysmomma]

My main problem is trying to eat healthy. With all of my health problems the doctors tell me what not to eat (usually everything that is healthy: vegetables, fruits, etc.). They want me to eat white bread, not wheat, etc. I was heading to a dietitian when I decided to go to MRC. I can only eat about 1/4 of the things on the beige menu. I have had to be creative. When out and about I eat Stage 1 green beans and Stage 2 apples and blueberries baby food. Believe it or not, since I began this, I have been healthier and had more energy than I have had in a long time. I can only have cooked apples or peaches and bananas. I can only eat broccoli, cauliflower and green beans if they are cooked to mush.

oreoparent,
bless your heart, do you realize how incredible you are?:yay: You have TONS more to face than most people and you are still able to be strong enough to lose that much weight and you are are still trucking along? Wow! You could totaly write a book when you reach your goal, you could call it "No Excuses" you have a like a million legit excuses and you choose to not quit and use any of them, if you can do it seriously anyone can. :cp:

3monkeysmomma

[readytobethinagain]

Hey there everyone....I'm looking for a little support. I did really great for quite a while when I started MRC, and now, I can't seem to find my motivation anymore. I am very sad and depressed about this. I have found myself falling into old habits, which makes me feel like I'm more on a diet than making life changes.

What can I do to get back on track?

Ever since I had the flu a few weeks ago - I just haven't been able to get back to eating right and working out.

I can do o.k. for a couple of days, but then I just grab a piece of candy like it's nothing....as if it's o.k. for me to do that...even though I know better. I also have been doing a lot of socializing on the weekends, and drinking that dreaded beer. I know I'm not supposed to drink beer...yet I continue to do it. I just get so mad at myself for not having the willpower that I need to do this.

I still have 40+ lbs. to lose, and then be able to maintain that forever. I'm freaking out about maintaining and so scared to get it all back.

I know my words seem to contradict themselves....what do you think is going on inside my mind?!?

I just need some inspiration, or something.

I am already on anti-depressants, so I'm just not sure why I'm so down.

Thanks for listening. You are a great group here.



I just wanted to give you a little bit of love. I'm going to tell you that I have had quite a time with the weight loss until now. It seemed like everything was against me. As soon as I would get into a groove and be going to the gym and monitoring my food, something would happen that would interrupt my flow. I was in a great groove last year and my husband and I went on vacation by ourselves, (WHICH HAD NEVER HAPPENED!!! not even a honeymoon) and I gave myself all kind of reasons to cheat and be bad. And then I got back on track and then I got sick. And then I was doing good again, and I fell and hit my head. I always had an excuse. It's been the accountability and the money that I've spent that's given me motivation this time. And I'm not going to mess this one up. I've dealt with a lot of depression and it's taken some time to figure out the meds that work for me. I had tried so many and now my super fantastic doctor figured out what worked for me. But I know that there is a good possibility that the meds will have to be adjusted again at some point. And I guess that what I'm getting to. It may be time to try some new meds. Talk to your doctor, if you have a good one that you can really cry to and talk to. If not, you should try to find one! :) I know what you are going through, I have only had my meds balanced out for six months or so and I feel like a different person. I have to take a mix of Zoloft and Wellbutrin to give me the appropriate levels of energy.

So I'm sending hugs and reassurance that this can be done. I have seen my entire family fall apart over the past year and a half and I am doing it. God never gives us more than we can handle. I am a firm believer of that. There have been times that I thought I would not make it, but I want to be healthy for my hubby and my kids, but mostly for me. I want to be a great grandma. And I want to be damn hot being that great grandma!! Just remember what you want. What you need. HOW MUCH MONEY YOU'VE SPENT!!! :^:


BIG HUGS!!!:hug:

[map08]

Raemi13-
I agree with some of the other posts- you should take a good look at the situation and think about what motivated you to begin the program. Find what is the biggest reason for you to become more healthy and keep that in mind. I have a few post-it notes stuck in places ("Be Healthy!" on the food cupboard, etc.) that help me. Also, I think of the time and money I have dedicated to this and I don't even want to touch