For my own motivational purposes I want to post some thoughts.
I am doing IP with alternatives and without a coach. I don't think I would have been able to do it without this web-site. In my mind the success of some of you validates that it works, and gives it credibility. I am sort of a skeptic by nature, so this is necessary for me.
Other observations:
1. I FEEL SO MUCH BETTER, just with the 30 pounds I have lost. Never will I say that it is enough. BUT, imagine what 30, or even 50 more would do. I will see in the next few months.
A. I am much more mobile. I have a pretty bad back, probably because of the years of weight, and my hips flare up sometimes. Both still hurt, but so much less. I was on 800 mg of ibuprofen twice a day, and sometimes would add tylenol. Now, I have gone days without it, at times. I think it is not only the weight loss, but the reduction in inflamation caused by sugar, although I am no doctor. In any event, it is great. I began to worry about the long-term effects on my kidney and liver, and began to be concerned about diabetes. Less concerned now.
B. I have already had to move down to smaller clothes. I feel better. 2XL. I know it may sound silly, but that is outstanding for me.
C. I am more positive, and have more energy. I think it was the carb rollercoaster that I was on before. Always craving and trying to push more energy.
D. Less heartburn.
E. Generally, an overall sense of accomplishment. Like, I am getting this done. This thing that in the back of my mind, I always feared I would not be able to conquer. I think I can indeed do it!
I have been to 295 before. Indeed, I was there a couple years ago. But to give you an idea of my weight history.
At 21, I weighed 225. I just came back from a couple years in Africa, where I exercised regularly, and ate like a poor college student. I was told I looked too thin and gaunt. I am a big framed football sort of guy, and this was a very thin me, high school weight. But I would love to have that again, although I don't know if it was realistic.
In college, 22-25, I moved to around 250. After undergrad, I did construction for a year and my weight went up to 265. I was overweight for sure, but a big strong brute of a man.
Went to grad school at 26. Weight moved up to 300-305.
Three years later, at age 29, started a regular job. Weight 315. Been between 315, and 335 for about 11 years, with the occasional intense 2-4 months of fitness, bringing it down to a low of around 295.
SO... I am now down to equal my lowest weight in the past 14 or so years. I am ready for a lot more.
So, keep the posts rolling. Please, you veterans who have made it... please post, and I hope in several months, to be hitting 250 and be a veteran as well. And if I have the desire, or commitment, to go even lower.
Commitment, patient continuance.
