I'm bound and determined!
 

Hi everyone! I joined a while back, but unfortunately, I didn't take advantage of the site and I quickly fell off the wagon. (I'm sure many of you can relate to the familiar story of yo-yo dieting!) This time, I'm bound and determined to succeed in making a lifestyle change, and from what I've been reading, this is a great place to get help to do it! So, I've set up a weight counter and created mini-goals, and I'm ready to get started! Yay!!

Hi Jacqui and welcome.

Do you have an eating style or exercise preference? Have you found some threads you like? Just let us know if there's anything we can help you find.

Thank you Susan! I don't follow any certain diet, but I am eating smaller portions 5-6 times a day. I'm trying to balance the types of calories in a healthy way, not completely cutting out carbs or protein or fat. I am now eating foods that contain "good" carbs, essential fatty acids, and a healthy amount of protein. For example, I've greatly limited red meats and starchy veggies, and I eat more fish and steamed veggies. Also, I do keep an eye on calories, but I refuse to go lower than 1200 calories, usually shooting for 1500. I've stopped drinking carbonated drinks altogether, and I only drink water (lots) and hot green tea (2-4 cups a day). I don't refuse to eat my temptation foods, but I eat a very small amount if any at all. Also, three to seven times a week, for 30 minutes, I go out brisk-walking on nice days and ride my stationary bike on other days. I need to add strength training, I know, but I'm just not there yet. My biggest challenge is not to become frustrated at slow weight loss. I have to keep reminding myself that slow and steady is good! That's why it helps to be around other people who are succeeding at this. I don't want it to be all about the weight loss this time around, but about making a change for the good to become a healthier person, which includes achieving a healthy weight and BMI, because I never want to yo-yo diet again!