Hi everyone! I'm Ashley, I'm 18 and this is the first time I've taken on serious weight loss. I've got about 130 pounds to lose and I'm still trying to organize a diet/exercise plan that I can stick to.

None of my friends really "get" this, as they're all pretty average sizes. It's going to be brilliant to be able to talk with people who know that "But you have such a pretty face!" doesn't really feel like a compliment

Hi Ashley,

Congratulations for taking the first step. You have one really huge thing going for you - your age. The younger you are - the easier it is to lose. Believe me - I'm 45 and I can't believe how hard this is. So please - do it while you're young!

Regarding exercise - you might want to start out walking 5 or 6 days a week - for 10 or 15 minutes - then after you get that down pretty good either go faster or for a longer time. The idea is to keep challenging your body. Once something gets relatively easy - you need to do something to make it harder.

The food is something I feel you need to personally decide on - but one thing for sure - drink lots of water every day. It really does help. Also cut out what you know is junk food and things made with white flour.

You can do it - I know you can. Good luck!
Beth

Hello and Welcome!! Good Luck with your weight loss you can do it!