Hi, everyone! I'm Jennifer, and I'm another newbie.
Over the last 12 years I've crept up slowly from 120 pounds to top out at 226 pounds. In addition to 3 pregnancies/extended nursings and quitting smoking (twice), I also have developed horrible eating habits over the years. I've known for awhile that I really just have to decide enough is enough and do something about it, but I think everyone needs that "moment" in which they really, deep down inside, are ready to make the commitment and stick to it. Last week I got some stomach bug that lasted a couple of days; after 2 days of eating nothing and another 2 of having a very limited appetite, I knew I'd gain the water weight back (and I did), but I also knew that at least a couple of pounds wouldn't come back as long as I stopped overdoing, so I decided to use that as a springboard to begin losing the weight.
My biggest problem is that, regardless of how much I eat, I never feel full. For that reason I can't use the expert's rule of only eating when I really feel hungry - I always feel hungry even if I've just eaten. What I'm making myself do is to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner at certain times of the day and I can have a reasonable snack if I don't overeat at lunch - and I do want those snacks, so it helps to watch myself at lunch. I've also cut out all sugared drinks, and I make sure I eat at least 20grams of fiber a day. I'm waiting for my *turn* with a book about Volumetrics that I'm hoping will give me some ideas on foods that will help me to finally feel full.
I also have to be really careful not to go overboard with restricting my diet since I'm nursing my youngest son still.
Anyway, I just wanted to introduce myself. I've never been a prolific poster on any boards, and when I do post it will probably be in the breastfeeding forum, but I wanted to say hello to everyone and to wish everyone a good journey to better health!
Jennifer
. . . You have taken a very important first step on the long, winding road to better health and fitness by joining us. 3FC is a wonderful place to get lots of support and encouragement. It is a very big site, so take your time and have a good look around; but don't be shy, just hop in and start posting wherever something catches your eye. You will receive a very warm welcome wherever you decide to post. 