Hello, I'm am new to the forum and site (obviously lol).

Just thought I would introduce myself. I'm 21, and I have been fat pretty much my whole life. I have been trying to diet since I was 6 years old (it started out by imitation, and then it became something more). Ages 16 through 20 I battled bulimia, and I have been recovered since (I would say since June 2005, so almost a year).

I have attempted Weight Watchers twice. Both times was in the time period of the bulimia. I may be trying Weight Watchers again.

I just moved out on my own 8 months ago, and my greatest worry was diving back into the bulimia, however I really stopped focusing on my weight at the time so I didn't plunge back there. After the last couple of weeks, I have decided that I'm finally ready to give this another shot, however giving it a shot the healthy way.

I've been kind of browsing the forum a bit, and it seems like a wonderfly supportive atmosphere that I'm looking most forward to being a part of.

I think I've rambled a bit lol so I guess that is it for now

Hello Spunker, and welcome! Sorry you have had such a struggle with your weight! And yes, this is a very supportive group; glad you are here with us.

Let me encourage you to handle your weight loss under a doctor's supervision also, if you are not. This is always a good idea, but particularly for someone who has struggled with bulimia. I commend you for your desire NOT to go back there again.

I look forward to getting to know you.

in Seattle

spunker!

This is a wonderful website. You can find a lot of information, great support, and really nice people.

Sorry to hear about your struggles before, and I'm glad you're doing ok now. I had a little brush with anorexia myself. I'm by now means thin and never was, but about 4 yrs ago I lost a lot of weight. At one point I was 150 lbs, I'm 5'10" and a lot of people were already telling me I was too thin. Mind you, I was NEVER that thin, I've always been overweight, even as a kid I was chubby. But I did it all the wrong way, I was barely eating, I was pretty much lying to my parents, even my boyfriend. I was telling everybody I was eating plenty but I wasn't. I had day where a small package of crackers was all I ate for the day. And I was pushing myself to have a day with no food whatsoever. That was my goal, fortunately it never happened. I'm grateful that part of my life is gone, but of course all the weight came back with a vengeance, I gained 106 lbs!

Now I'm trying to change my lifestyle and making better choice for myself. So far so good. I feel much better physically and mentally. I have a long way to go, but I know I'm going to get there.

I wish you all the best. We're all in it together. This is a wonderful place, honestly. Anything you need, just ask!

Misti in Seattle: Thanks Is there usually a certain period of time where you should check in with your doctor, etc.? Like every so many weeks, months, etc?

friendlykat4u: Thanks for the welcome I know exactly what you are saying (about the weight gain afterwards). For the brief period I was in college (living in the dorms), I dropped 40 pounds fairly quickly due to the unhealthy behaviours I was engaging in, however when I dropped out due to the eating disorder (and other things) and moved back home, I've gained almost 100 pounds bringing me to one of my highest weights.

It's truly wonderful to see that I'm not alone in this

You're definitely not alone in this Spunker. Let's just be glad that "period" is gone for us. Now you can focus on yourself and make changes to better your life.

There are so many way to lose weight out there. Misti's idea is great, to consult your doctor about a good weight loss plan. Just make sure that whatever you decide to do is a lifetime change. There's nothing temporary about it. I currently do Weight Watchers and I like it b/c it gives me a lot of freedom to chose what I eat. I stick with healthful foods, but once in a while it's good to know I can eat other things too as long as I count it into my point range. A lot of people count calories, do South Beach, Atkins, the list is long. Pick something that fits your needs the best, something you can stick to for the long run.

I would also recommend you read the maintenance forums, there's a wealth of information that can help you a lot as well. Good luck!