Hello everyone,

Well I randomly came across this forum and decided to join.

I have been struggling with weight loss for nearly 2 years now. I ended up going from 170lbs to 225lbs with out even realizing it (thanks to yoga pants and stretch material). I managed to lose 55lb in 6 months by drastically changing what I ate, but I was a bit too lenient with food the last few months and went back up 17lbs ( now sitting around 187-189 depending on the day-i retain ALOT of water weight).

I am tired of looking in the mirror and seeing myself the way I am. Ive decided to make drastic life changes to reach my goal of 150lbs. Ive started using slim in 6 weight loss videos every day- I'm on day number 6 so far and seeing changes, slight ones mind you (i.e. more energy, stronger, slight loss of inches). This is a great start for me but i'm hoping to really ramp it up and do more changes in terms of my diet..

I don't believe in depriving myself of food, especially cravings. In my experience if I deprive myself of something i crave i end up over doing it with alternative foods to try to curb my craving.

Does anyone have any suggestions on foods or drinks that they are ingesting that they have found to give more energy and help with metabolism/weight loss? or foods/beverages they have used that they supplement for cravings that have worked for them?

I love being active, the winter season is really limiting my ability to get outside and stay active (winter sports are not really my strong suit).
Any at home exercises anyone can suggest? or alternative activities? any and all suggestions are warmly welcome.

Ive gone through a few of the postings so far and I must say so many of you are doing so wonderful! Congratulations on all of your efforts as they are paying off in spades!

Welcome Crosbie2005. I know how you feel and have recently made the same decision. If you need someone to talk to just hit me up on skype. Details are in my profile. I would love to make friends and be a help to others.
I have written out my own schedule since I don't have a physician I can consult due to monetary issues but I have done a lot of research.

Good decision Crosbie2005, I made it recently as well. Aside from healthy eating and exercise habits you may want to pick up, consider picking up a hobby, especially something that keeps your hands and mind busy. For example, I recently started to learn how to play guitar and it really helps to prevent me from eating out of boredom.

Welcome, Crosbie2005! This is a great place for support and encouragement.

For me, cravings ended when I quit eating foods that triggered them. It took awhile to figure out exactly what did it. Most candy triggers cravings for me, but dark chocolate doesn't. Biscuits trigger cravings, but not ice cream. That last is nice because I can plan a treat of a scoop of ice cream in a cup and stay out of a whole lot of other things because I know I'll have that treat soon.

Hi Crosbie! Congrats on the weight you've lost so far and for taking back control of your body and exercising! My cravings are triggered by quick-burning carbs like breads, pasta, potatoes, sweets, so I've cut back on those things, and it's made all the difference. I also drink a lot of hot green tea, which I think helps to curb appetite and to reduce water weight. I'm sure you'll figure out what works best for you! Good luck!

Hi and welcome to the forum!

Thanks everyone. I'm really excited for this change. A lot of challenges ahead , withsome effort and support I will make this change a life altering one..no more excuses this time.