Need help Maintainers!

[azmom]

I posted this in the Featherweight board as well!

Before Christmas I was about 118 lbs. and really happy with my body. I am 43 so it takes alot more effort than it ever did before! Well, Christmas, as usual, did me in, and I am hanging on to about 5lbs. of fat I need to get rid of! My exercise program is rockin but I can't seem to take control of my food intake!!
I eat clean but just too much clean food!!

I am dedicating my self today to start writing down EVERYTHING I eat and it's calorie content. I am hoping to lose these 5lbs. in the next month(I wish by Easter, but that is probably impossible)

I am PMSing this week and holding on to some water weight. I am going to beat the cravings and the feeling I just want to EAT and succeed during this DIFFICULT week!

I need tips from you all about how to stay on track when the PMS is trying to take over me!!
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[kittycat40]

Sometimes I will indulge that PMS sodium craving while keeping the calories within limits. There is an expected large bump up but then a lovely whoosh and newer low number on the scale. This might not work if that bump up, which will be intimidatingly large will push towards a what the heck binge...

[Shanna]

Hi Therese,

Sounds like we are in a similar spot right now. I put on about 6 - 7 lbs over the holidays and have been maintaining there since. I also just passed from PMS to AF Friday/Saturday.

Some things that help me with cravings, esp around this time, are extra extra water, gum, 100 calories bags for snacks (as long as I stick with eating only 1 bag), altoids or tic-tacs... oh, and I allow myself 1 small square of extra dark chocolate a day. It's actually good for you, and a nice treat to look forward to and savor.

It's frustrating to know I can get this weight off and haven't. That's what got me to seek out other maintainers a week or so ago. I needed help to get motivated, and found these wonderful ladies! woohoo!

Shanna

[Shannon in ATL]

I take Seasonale so only have the PMS symptoms every three months, but during that time I drink a lot lot lot of hot tea. I have several blends - cinnamon, lavender, chocolate/black tea, white, green... I can typically find one for almost every craving... I also use them during the rest of the time to get through afternoon cravings as well.

Good luck sweetie!

[azmom]

Thanks Shanna, Shannon and Kittycat! Good tips! Looks like all three of us are relatively petite ladies!

I don't know about you, but 5lbs. on me is a huge difference in the way my clothes fit, especially in my waist!

I am going to do this & keep it off...keep the advice coming!!