[frecklesx]

Hello everyone,

I've decided its time for me to get serious about my health. My family is prone to heart problems and I'm young and engaged and don't want to miss out on any future that I could have because I'm being lazy. My younger cousin had a scare last week and I've been feeling odd as of late. A doctor's visit will happen soon and I'm ready to make changes.

I somehow stumbled onto this site and it helped me realize that I need to do something and I need to start now. I can't wait to get to know some of you and read about your weightloss adventures.

I don't know how to get started with anything so please jump in! I'll be reading through plenty of posts.

[Lovely]

Welcome to 3FC =)

You'll want to have 3 basic ideas about things.

1) Food Plan. Eating less than we expend is how basic weight loss works. (Calories in vs. Calories out.) Now this differs from person to person, but you'll be looking to put together a plan that allows you to keep track of your food and to moderate your intake.

If you're unsure of what kind of plan to use or want a little direction, there are a list of some of the more popular ideas under Diet Central. Now, keep in mind they aren't the only plans out there, just ones that we see frequently around 3FC =)

2) Move more. It's as simple as that sentence. Add activity. If you're sedentary you don't want to jump into a full-tilt work out where you might actually injure yourself, but you DO want to incorporate more movement where and when you can. It can be as simple as taking the stairs, and parking further from a store so you have to walk a couple extra steps. You can schedule in short walks, or find an activity you like to do and start planning to do it more. Over time, build it up, keep it a habit, and eventually you'll be surprised at just how much more movement you're getting into your life.

3) Patience. Persistence. Perseverance. Weight loss is by no means an easy process, but we must be patient with ourselves and the plans we've chosen. We must be persistent and stick to our promises. And we can persevere through the toughest of challenges!

You can do this! Take a look around the site. Post where you're comfortable! We love to help support and encourage.

Can't wait to see you on the boards throughout your journey!

[kewkew34]

Hi, I am new as of today as well. I have been on a serious weight loss journey since Dec 2010 and have lost 41 pounds.
Here are some of the things that have helped me:
I drink 2 cups of water before each meal to help fill up, plus it helps me keep track of the water. Then I try to get an additional 3 cups of water, usually one between each meal and one before bed.

I drink one cup of green tea per day. On one of my weight loss challenges I found a host of benefits of drinking green tea.

No snacking after dinner

I try really hard not to snack between meals, though I have not been doing too great on this one.

I allow myself one "sweet" treat (usually a Special K bar) a day, usually at lunch as I have plenty of time to burn it off.

I try to eat one big salad (romaine and spinach) a day with lots of veges and a protein (tuna, chicken, turkey pepperoni)

I have been told it is very important to log what you eat, I am still struggling with this one.

Simple exercise...walking. I have the benefit of living in a small town that is a mile around so I can easily keep track of the distance.

I was also using the Wii Fit Plus until our balance board went on the fritz.

Keep track of your measurements. Sometimes the scale shows no improvement, but you can see results in improved measurements. Also remember when you exercise you will be gaining muscle and at times that will effect the weight because muscle weighs more than fat. But muscle will help your metabolism.

This is what has been helping for me. Oh, and lots of accountability through blog challenges I have joined.