I posted this in the Featherweight board as well!

Before Christmas I was about 118 lbs. and really happy with my body. I am 43 so it takes alot more effort than it ever did before! Well, Christmas, as usual, did me in, and I am hanging on to about 5lbs. of fat I need to get rid of! My exercise program is rockin but I can't seem to take control of my food intake!!
I eat clean but just too much clean food!!

I am dedicating my self today to start writing down EVERYTHING I eat and it's calorie content. I am hoping to lose these 5lbs. in the next month(I wish by Easter, but that is probably impossible)

I am PMSing this week and holding on to some water weight. I am going to beat the cravings and the feeling I just want to EAT and succeed during this DIFFICULT week!

I need tips from you all about how to stay on track when the PMS is trying to take over me!!
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Sometimes I will indulge that PMS sodium craving while keeping the calories within limits. There is an expected large bump up but then a lovely whoosh and newer low number on the scale. This might not work if that bump up, which will be intimidatingly large will push towards a what the heck binge...

Hi Therese,

Sounds like we are in a similar spot right now. I put on about 6 - 7 lbs over the holidays and have been maintaining there since. I also just passed from PMS to AF Friday/Saturday.

Some things that help me with cravings, esp around this time, are extra extra water, gum, 100 calories bags for snacks (as long as I stick with eating only 1 bag), altoids or tic-tacs... oh, and I allow myself 1 small square of extra dark chocolate a day. It's actually good for you, and a nice treat to look forward to and savor.

It's frustrating to know I can get this weight off and haven't. That's what got me to seek out other maintainers a week or so ago. I needed help to get motivated, and found these wonderful ladies! woohoo!

Shanna

I take Seasonale so only have the PMS symptoms every three months, but during that time I drink a lot lot lot of hot tea. I have several blends - cinnamon, lavender, chocolate/black tea, white, green... I can typically find one for almost every craving... I also use them during the rest of the time to get through afternoon cravings as well.

Good luck sweetie!

Thanks Shanna, Shannon and Kittycat! Good tips! Looks like all three of us are relatively petite ladies!

I don't know about you, but 5lbs. on me is a huge difference in the way my clothes fit, especially in my waist!

I am going to do this & keep it off...keep the advice coming!!