[nickilaughs]

Hello!
My names Nicki and while I'm not considered obese, I was hoping to catch myself before I do.
My background's a little unique. I was born a preemie and had a lot of health problems growing up, so just trying to get me out of the hospital for good was a big focus in my childhood. Now I'm healthy minus one small heart defect.
This of course, is a risk in itself, coupled by the fact my father and grandmother both have Diabetes Type II. My closest brother is currently obese, and I do not want to join him. I really hope I can get him on the bandwagon with me.
My husband is also hoping to drop about 30 lbs he has gained over the last 2 years. So hopefully we'll be in this together!
I actually work in a Cardiac ICU that allows me to see the long term consequences of obesity, so I am hoping that will be additional to my motivation.
I appreciate any advice and so begin my journey today.
My "plan":
No more soda or alcohol
vegetables in at least two meals a day, fruit in at least one meal a day
No refined sugar (that's the hard one!)
Calorie restriction of 1600

I'm actually planning on following the Diabetes Dtour diet. My mom just lost 40 lbs on it and my grandmother. And my mom's boyfriend lost 80!

Good luck to everyone!

[CLCSC145]

Glad you found 3FC!

[CardboardCutoutCat]

and good luck!

[Onederchic]

Welcome to 3FC and good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle

[leeway]

Hi Nicki!
How smart to confront your weight before it's more of a challenge - sounds like you're already off to a great start with a good plan and a can-do attitude - the support you need is here!

Glad to have you join us! There are lots & lots of different groups and forums - I'm sure you'll find some that will keep you motivated, inspired and entertained! There's also info and first hand advice on different eating plans and exercise to help choose the right ones for you and get through the ups and downs.

There are bunches of people here with more to lose and some with less - the bottom line is that we all have to do it a day at a time. The good thing is that we'll have lots of company along the way.

I've only been here a few months myself, having NEVER been part of an online forum. What has been so eye-opening is how much it has helped me. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or defeated, I just log on and read some of the success stories, complete with their before & after photos - or read about others still dealing day to day with their challenges - and before I know it, the time has flown by and so have all the thoughts of cheating or giving up.

So welcome - you 've found the right place - join in by inspiring us and being inspired!

All the best - good luck with your goals,
Lee

[Stace]

Hi Nicki,
I'm new here as well, and trying a similar plan. Both of my parents were/are type II diabetics and I am trying to avoid the same fate. I wish I would have started earlier like you are! Best of luck and welcome!

[nickilaughs]

Thank you for all the support! My husband and I read through the book today. Made our health contracts and our goals, so hopefully this will go well!