[VeggieGoneCrazy]

Hi Everyone!

I'm new here, like the rest of you on this board I'm looking for some support and understanding. This is going to be kind of long 'cuz I need a buddy who knows what they're getting into right off the bat. LOL

I never had weight problems before the birth of my son (8 years ago) and then suddenly suffered from PPD and undiagnosed hypothyroid. I gained about 80 lbs and have been struggling to lose it ever since. While I've tried some of the newer diets, I've found them hard to follow because I'm also a vegetarian.

At this point, I think I'm trying to change my lifestyle. I've lacked any real exercise plan for years. I also find myself not eating all day, and starving at night. My body doesn't seem to tell me when to eat, and I know that's a problem. Because of being a Mom, I've never taken the time to make sure not only that I'm eating, but that I'm eating healthy, and I'm ready to change that. I know it's a big part of why I can't lose weight - I don't eat, and I don't eat balanced when I do.

In the meantime, I have a non-dieting, non-vegetarian family I'm trying to feed as well.

I'm really serious about losing the weight now, my kids are older, and I'm tried of seeing a body that doesn't match my insides. On top of that, we just moved to a new area where gym rates are very reasonable and I can afford a membership. And on a final note - my DH thinks he wants a divorce, and whether that's what happens or not, I want to feel good about the way I look again.

So, that's about it. Thanks for listening! I wish the best of luck to all of you!!!

[Jacqueline Murrin]

You need to start to plan you daily eating, Im veggie and can manage to lose weight, ive lost 196lbs. I also suffer from hypothyroidism and diebetes insipidus. So if I can do so can you. Goodluk Jackie

[VeggieGoneCrazy]

Wow Jackie, way to go!

Do you mind sharing any tips? I've started making myself eat three times a day (that was this weeks goal, LOL) and working in the yard raking and weeding and stuff. (again, starting small). I get to start at the gym next week and so far am really excited about that.

Anyway, congrats on the weightloss - that's really inspiring!

[BJ3]

Been there, done all of it! (Except the veggie thing - love them, but with chicken or fish) Couldn't you just fix the meat or legumes for your family with lots of vegetables and you eat those? Be sure to add lots of cheese or legumes so you get in your protein. Have you tried Alpine Lace Cheddar Cheese? It is reduced fat (2 pts an oz. on weight watchers) It is terrific, but hard to find in grocery stores. I talked a manager of a Kroger here into carrying it in their deli section.

[LoseForLife]

HI Veggie

There is one crucial factor - eat regularly! It doesn't matter whether you're vego or not, you've GOT to eat so that your body doesn't hang onto every small morsel you eat like grim death!

I find that a good bowl of meusli in the morning with fruit is a great way to start the day. I snack on meusli bars (WW), fruit and nuts in between the main meals. Lunch is a nice salad sandwich with a yummy seedy bread (I have chicken or tuna, but salad with herbs is nice too), and dinner... well, again, I would have it with meat, but as you would know, there are lots of yummy meals available that don't need meat. I agree with that other post that you could make a meal and keep your portions aside, alternatively, make a deal with your family that you will do that sometimes, but they have to enjoy the vego lasagna etc sometimes too! I've learnt over time that portion control is also very important, making sure to space out all the food groups over the day to make sure you maintain good nutrition for your body to have long lasting energy over the day. Some regular aerobic exercise will also increase your energy - even if it's 20 minutes of walking 4 days a week. Or on the treadmill at the gym.... raking leaves is a good one!

I know how hard it is to look after kids, so it's SO important that you look after yourself and eat well. I find that the exercise makes a huge difference for me - if I don't I feel tired, bloated, lack motivation, feel more depressed.... and, of course, don't lose weight!

Sorry to have gone on! I just know how hard it is to change your lifestyle, especially if you're surrounded by others who aren't on the same agenda.

Good luck with it all!

[INDY B]

I can really relate to the problem of eating regularly. I have always struggled with organization, depression and anxiety. Recently I was diagnosed as ADHD and PCOS, so in addition to the behavior modification, I've got to deal with all the PCOS baggage. But one thing I know for sure is that until I learn to eat regularly and exercise regularly, it doesn't really matter what I eat. So, my short term goals are not weight related, they are food related. Repeat after me: I will eat regularly. I will eat regularly. I will not let myself get ravishingly hungry.

OK, wish me luck

[JenR]

hi!!
i'm not a vegetarian, but i totally understand the fight to feed everyone different things. my husband can eat 20 times a day and never gain any weight, and my girls are young, so i want them to have healthy habits growing up. sometimes it works
good for you joining a gym next week!! maybe they ahve a personal trainer who can help you get started with some advice?
good luck!!
~jenn