Well, I went to the doctor for my annual check up and the scaled read what I was terrified to see....300....How did I manage to get this heavy? Oh I remember its from the ice cream I ate last night and all the things I have eaten in my past...I NEED HELP.....I do not even know where to start, so any advice at all would be wonderful. I just got married in Oct 2011 and I want to live a healthy lifestyle with my husband for a very long time and would love to have children soon. I am only 31, so I know I need to get started as soon as possible...PLEASE HELP ME!

Welcome to 3FC! I know it's a bit daunting when you first see a huge number on the scale, realise you need to do something about it, but it seems like you're standing at the bottom of this inconquerable mountain. I've been there too. First off, congrats on finding this forum, it's massively supportive and inspiring. There is a support area for almost every situation, and you're sure to find great help and support here.

You mention you were at the docs, did he offer you any start-out tips for getting the weight off? Maybe a daily calorie target? That's probably the best way to get started - get familiar with the caloric content of foods. Know how much energy you're putting into your body daily. I mean, we all know that chips and burgers and pizza are fattening in large amounts, but it can really put it into perspective when you know that one slice of pizza is maybe 800 calories and you're on a 1600 per day calorie limit!

Also know that it's important to get some exercise in, to burn off excess energy that might otherwise become stored as fat. I'm not saying hit the running track, but most people losing weight will agree that physical activity is important. For heavier people where higher impact things like running and gym are out of the question, lower impact activity like swimming and walking are great.

So, there's my advice to you. In a nutshell, lessen the calories going in, and increase the calories going out, i.e exercise. I wish you the best of luck, and remember the 3FC community is here to fall back on if you need help or advice, or even just want to vent out some frustration. I've done that plenty of times!

~Fal

MARTI ~ Congrats on your marriage! Well, there are many different plans here; many people like calorie-counting for it's versatility. Others like WW, or the numerous lower-carb plans. Take into account the kinds of foods you like and choose one that works well with that. I do portions & calories myself, and love it.

I am also 30, 300lbs, in a committed relationship and want to have children when I am healthy enough, and new to the forum. We already have a lot in common! If you need a buddy to talk to, I'll be here for you.