Hi Cathy!
Many apologies...this is a ramble, sparked by the thought that you went to WW with your mother at 14...I can't imagine what that experience was like, and how it still might be affecting you. So with this post come hugs of encouragement, and a huge congratulations for you wanting to choose healthy. It really is a day-by-day, moment-by-moment journey, that we are all sharing. You (and I) are not alone here--and I'm so thankful for this forum!
Just some background info:
I was the 'hulk' of my high school. Squished into jeans that only did up when I was lying down, with rolls and rolls spilling over the waistband, and the look of disgust on my dad's face... Even younger (elementary school) I remember my mother sending 'diet food' to my caregiver's house whose 3 kids were all skinny-minis, and them laughing at me as they ate their chocolate puddings and I had my pear for dessert.
These memories were relived when, as an adult with 3 kids of my own, I joined WW. I didn't want someone looking over my shoulder as I ate a 'forbidden' food. I didn't want to be judged as a BAD person b/c of my food choices. I loved WW b/c we were all supportive, and that's why I like this site too. We all need a fan club when we can't cheer our own self on, b/c of feeling worthless or guilty.
At any rate, I lost 25lb with the old points system with WW, and I found that what really made for a good loss week (1 1/2 lbs) was the amount of exercise I did. Whenever I plateaued (sp?) I would try just a little bit more intensity, and that would help the weight move in the right direction.
Now that I'm trying to lose 20 or so pounds (again) ( I just started Jan.1st), I'm finding the same thing is true. I also find that I HAVE to plan what I have on hand (whether at home or in the car or at school) to eat, otherwise the lure of a burger 'n fries is too great. By the way, now that it's been 28 days mostly on plan (I'm doing the South Beach thing), I am reaching and even longing for healthy snacks--which I find simply amazing.
One thing that I just discovered is that wheat & gluten really throw off my digestive system. Yesterday I had some crab cakes, which have a little wheat (breadcrumbs) in them, and I am so uncomfortably bloated today that it looks like I am 6 months pregnant. Not Fun At All. Getting carbs from other foods, not W&G, is my search from now on.
Anyway. Keep us posted on your journey, good or bad. We are here for you and respect you no matter what. Good days, bad days, bleh days...we've all been there, done that, and who knows what tomorrow may bring...we'll tackle it then.
Cheers!
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