Had a yummy core lunch today. Took 1 cup of lentils, chopped one tomato and half a cucumber, added 2 tbsp fat free sour cream and curry powder and salt and pepper to taste. It made a huge bowl of food and tasted wonderful. (hint, don't mix it together til you are ready to eat. That way the tomatoes stay nice and the sour cream doesn't go watery.)

Could anyone suggest good snacks to take to work? All I can think of is fruit. Any other ideas? I get very hungry between meals on core, probably because it is so low fat. I usually get my oil at supper.

Cheers all,
Nova

Hello All.........I have been reading this POST for hours and it is very motivating, since I am ON THE FENCE about The Core Plan. I am a lifetime member but have 3 lbs to get me back to goal, AND STAY THERE. I hem and hawed about this plan but this board and ALL of you and Linda in Derry's receipes has lit my fire. I am back on course for the past 11 weeks having lost 15 so far. Guess I gained back more than I thought :dizzy: but I am making progress. I was thinking I am the last hold out for the Core Plan but this post is convincing me that on Core is where I should be. MY reluctance was MY desserts....I am a dessert person and always allow my pts for them. I am thinking as I am reading all the great idea you all are coming up with.
Tell me Linda in Derry or CIN .....the oatmeal cookies....can we have more than one with a glass of FF milk? Also CIN, what about the FFSF puddings - is it one per day like the Smoothies??
I want to THANK YOU ALL for being so positive on this, I needed it. I realized I have not posted here in a year. Sure am glad I found you again.
I hope to hear from ALL of you.......
Linda

One More Question........
 

Hopefully someone knows this....it is confusing some of WW at the work...
If you have a store bought CORE soup, and then decide for dinner you want your own made with WW pasta, FF chicken broth, added vegs and chicken....do you then HAVE to count one of them as pts???

I might have missed something, but I don't know of a limit on soups. I have invested in a box full to keep here at work - all on the CORE "list".

Hi Ladies,

I, too, am a lifetime WW who is having trouble staying within the 2-lb. limit. When I heard about CORE I had to go to the meeting and find out all about it. Since journaling and counting points was something I hated to do--I am definitely on the CORE program. I, like you other ladies, am very excited about this. The foods that are CORE are all very nutritious and healthy. My husband is a diabetic and since I am feeding him the way I am eating his diabetis has been more in control. One thing I am doing is having one of the chocolate WW treats each day and counting the points-2 pts. I am also using the other 3 points each day for whatever I want. I am truly satisfied and by trying the many recipes you ladies have posted I definitely am not bored. And the best news of all is I am losing weight!

Look forward to reading more posts on this subject.

Take care,
Anita

As far as I know, Linda, there are not limits to soups, only pasta would be maybe what you are referring to? There is one serving of pasta per say, so two servings of soup with pasta would have to have the points counted, if that is what you were getting at?
Not sure what oatmeal cookies you meant in terms of having milk. I've not found any oatmeal cookies YET that are core, just oatmeal itself. Oatmeal need not have milk with it, as with a few other cerials.
Linda in NH
"I am the one who holds the fork", quoted from Richard Simmons motivational tape, 1980s. We made the choices, we live with the choices. Let's make some good choices!

Hi Linda in Derry....about the soup is exactly what I meant. So if one Core soup has noodles in it the other home made should be counted or vise versa.
As for the oatmeal cookies, I was talking about a recipe I thought you posted, or some kind of oatmeal dessert with all core ingredients than are more than 1 allowed with a nice glass of FF milk??

You have posted some really great recipes and I for one, can't wait to try the beef stronganoff :D
I have written in down and look forward to it. :cb:
I was a BIG TIME 'No Way' Core person, but your posts and this board in particular has swayed me. I just had a great lunch and 1:30 and before that I had Fiberone with FF milk for breakfast at7:30 and then @ 10:30 some grapes, and I have NOT felt starved, something I have experience on FLEX sometimes during the day.
So actually this entire week I had not met my range for most days, do to Hurricane France and not having much in the house as well as no power or refrig. So my pts count was low.....even though if I want to consider myself as having done Core for the week then I used my 35 pts allowance but I am fine with that because for the rest of the day today (thursday) and tomorrow I will Core it all the way, and Saturday starts my new week again.
Was finally able to get some fruit at the supermarket - they finally got a delivery of dairy products and fruit......just in time for my new plan.
I hope we all have a great rest of our week and hear from each on how we are doing out there......everyone have a great rest of you day......Linda

Debra.....sorry about the miscommunication on the soups.....I guess I was talking about if the store bought soups had some sort of noodles in them.
I also just looked at my Complete Food Companion and I looked more carefully at the brands listed. I am a 'soup' person and don't want to mess anything up since I have been a long time hold out for the new Core Plan.
So again I am sorry.

Have a great day!!!!!!! LindaJ

HI!
I just reviewed all my posts on this thread, skimming through them and can't quite see the oatmeal dessert I posted.... but it was probably making an apple crisp with oatmeal, core margarine (some kind of soy or whatever is allowed or a point for what you can put in to make it work) and Splenda. If you mix oatmeal with cinnamon, nutmeg, Splenda and oatmeal and add a bit of margarine or maybe tiny bit of olive oil and some ww butter spray for flavor, you can put it over top of apples and bake it like a regular apple crisp. It would be totally on core, other than margarine if you added it. One could have milk with it, or I was thinking of taking plain ff yogurt and mixing it with Splenda and vanilla (to taste) and putting that over top? Sounds pretty yummy and I'll be my darling husband would eat it!
I need to come up with some more chocolate ideas.... I am obsessed with chocolate.
Sugar free "diet" hot cocoa is core, so I was thinkig of diluting the mix packet with a teeny bit of water vs. the entire amount ot make hot cocoa and making a chocolate sause to drizzle over top of things.... might work?
Here's another great recipe idea..... adapted from the Fanny Farmer cookbook!

Schoolteacher Squash, core plus one flexpoint

An old-fashioned vegetable casserole that a schoolteacher used to make. It adapted well to the microwave and it is just as good today, as ever!

1 pound zucchini, sliced
1/4 cup water
salt to tste
1/3 cup chopped onion
1/3 cup chopped green pepper
1/4 cup olive oil (as this serves 4, you must add one point here for this, or cut back on what you use)
1/2 cup grated fat free sharp cheddar cheese (the recipe does not say ff, but this is where we get creative!)
1 egg slightly beaten
This is CORE plus one point for the olive oil, we should have olive oil, but not quite this much at once!
Put the zucchini, water and salt in a 2 quart microwave safe casserole and microwave on high for 6 minutes. Drain off the excess water and mash the zucchini. In a seperate small dish, microwave the onion and pepper with two tablespoons of the olive oil on high for 1 minute. Add the onion mixture to the zucchini along with the cheese and egg and stir to blend. Drizzle remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over top. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 4 minutes, then turn the dish and microwave for 3 more minutes.


This really will come out nicely, good flavor, etc! Could be good served with brown rice and a meat/fish. You'll be on core and enjoying something different!
Have a great day all,
Linda in "Coresville USA"

LindaJ: what are some off the shelf soups that are considered core?

danny

Hi Danny - in answer to your question and mine :-) Hope this list helps

CAMPBELLS CONDENSED SOUPS
Beef with Veg & Barley
Black Bean
California style veg
Chicken veg
French Onion
Manhatten style clam chowder
Old Fashion Veg
Southwestern style chicken veg
Split Pea
Tomato
Vegetable
Veg Beef
Vegetarian Veg
-----------------------------
CAMPBELLS LOW SODIUM SOUPS
Chunky Veg Beef
Split Pea
Tomato with Tomato pieces
-----------------------------
CAMPBELL SELECT:
Bean and Ham
Beef w/ roasted barley
Chicken Veg
Fiesta Veg
Grilled Chicke w/sundried Tomatos
Savory Lentil
Split Pea with Ham
Tomato Garden
Veg Beef

-----------------------------
CAMPBELLS SOUP AT HAND
Blended Veg Medley
Classic Tomato
----------------------------
CAMPBELLS HEALTHY REQUEST
Minestrone
Vegetable
Vegetable Beef


PROGRESSO:
Beef & baked Potato Soup
Beef & Mushroom
Beef & Veg
Beef Barley
Chicken Barley (that sounds good :-)
Escarole in chicken broth
French Onion
Green Split Pea
Hearty Black Bean
Lentil 99%FF
Manhattan Clam Chowder
Roasted Chicken Garden Herb
Tomato Basil
Vegetarian Veg with Barley
Zesty Herb Tomato
---------------------------
PROGESS RICH AND HEARTY SOUPS
Beef potato roast and country veg
Roasted Garlic chicken w/ veg
Savory Beef barley veg
Sirloin steak and veg
Steak & roasted russet potatos
Vegetable beef slow cooked

Danny and others I hope this info helps - I know I for one love to have soup especially at lunch so I will be jotting these down for my shopping list too.
These are according to the latest Complete Food Companion.
Again I hope it helps...........talk with you all later..............

many, many thanks, Linda

Great List
 

I came tonight to see what anyone knew about the soups, and it was like you read my mind Linda :lol: I had better buy the Complete Food Companion.
Does anyone have the eating out guide? Wonder if it is worth it.

Just my opinion!
 

:lol: The Dining Out & Complete Food Companions are ESSENTIAL! Please get them!
Then you can look up all the answers for everyone who ask! :lol:

Learning how to use the Complete is important too.the instructions are in the front!

LindaJL..there is NOT a limit on the FF SF Pudding but I would keep portion control in mind.that is something we are all learning too.......so to have it more than once a day might not be wise! ;)

I liked the idea of adding sf jello to that plain yogurt for flavoring..............going to try some lemon when I go to the store again!

Cin~ ;)

Hi
Where could I get this complete guide book please?

Chezz

Good (early) Friday mornin' all.....

Danny I was happy to help, as a 'soup' person I would have wanted to know too. Trudy glad it help you out too. Soup just seems so fulfilling (to me) especially at lunch, quick and easy,when you're busy.

CIN- as for the SFFF pudding I would only have it at night. I STILL need my dessert - old habits die hard. But I will tell you yesterday was my first day of full CORE meal, even though I journaled and counted pts....there go those old habits again..........but anyway, I had a Great first day. I was SO against this at first - the last hold out amongst many even at work. Yesterday I was so satisfied I couldn't believe it myself. After breakfast, which was 1c Fiberone, thank God it's on CORE with my FF milk (7:30am) I didn' feel 'hungry' at all but about 10:30 I had a cup of grapes, and not until 1:30 was I ready for lunch, and a great lunch it was, salmon, couscous and mixed vegetables, totally satisfied for hours!!!! A handful of grapes later in the afternoon and dinner (get this) not until 6:45!! WOW is what I thought. And dinner I might add was great too......chicken tender sauteed' in Pam then added some tomato sauce and simmered, and the 100% WW spagetti and boy oh boy was that some meal, I even surprised myself :lol:
It wasn't till much later I though of dessert......old habits again, but my choice was a wise one........1 c SFFF Jello Choc pudding......deee--lish!!
I was quite satisfied at the end of my first day. I must tell you though I had tried Core before when it first came out here and though, there is no way I am doing this it's too restrictive, boy was I wrong, and I am the first to admit it. After reading Linda (DerryDaughters') recipe the sky seems to be the limit. And I dont see too much of a problem with eating out. A nice gilled chicken and veg or pork chop or small steak-----beats having to counts the points that they would be. Even the fast food resturants have some really good salads these days. So all in all I am happy today and I have proved myself wrong.
I hope all of you are having as good as an experience. Seems those who have weighed in have done fabulously.....I w/i Sunday, will let you know. This week although the majority was Flex I never got to my full pts because of Hurricane Frances.... no access to much :dizzy: , had to make the best of what I had, but I did NOT cheat.......not once during this. So in essence I did Flex, not meeting the points target and then when I calculated I fell into the Core plan, I did at the end of my day Wednesday use all the 35 pts allowances but nevertheless I did not falter from either program. So yesterday I had a FULL core day and will today too.
Well all..........have great days out there............keep us posted.....Linda

Chezz you can purchase the books at the Meeting places of WW.
They are truly worth it Especially The Complete Food Companion.

If I can help you in the mean time, please post and let me know.

Linda

Have a great day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Linda, isn't it wonderful to not have to "think" about food all day? You just eat Core when you are hungry and stop when you are full. You don't have to worry about getting hungry because if you do you can get grab a piece of fruit and keep going. That's the best part for me. I can handle stress at work so much better now. I have even given up the diet cokes I was drinking every day. I tried the Club Soda and had a glass when I was thirsty and didn't want more water (I drink a couple of bottles a day) but something with a little zip! A wonderful discovery for me--never tried it before. I have never been a big meat eater but I think I am eating more now because I don't worry about the point value. And love getting that milk. I have found I am pouring too much out though and am full so I have to pour it out--gotta stop that. Just a small glass and then I can get more if I need it. That's the skinny way of eating! I lost 2 lbs. my first two wi and weight again tomorrow. Can't wait!

Good morning all! Glad you guys liked the recipe, found another one this morning that would be one point, though I'd share it..... sounds wonderful and "appetizerlike" for a party or BBQ? Also, am going to experiment with making homemade fried rice of some kind to serve with this, can use olive oil, egg, partially cooked brown rice, bamboo shoots, bean sprouts and onion, sautee in the oil, add egg and then broth and soy sauce and simmer until done - think it would come out ok?????
I have a new term I am using in my head when I convert a recipe. I'm going through this exercise with you all as I am training myself right along with you guys..... This new term I am using is called "CORE +" The plus stands for ONE point extra due to one ingredient that is non-core. But, with 35 flexpoints a week, we can spare the one point in order to get flavor, texture, etc. This week I am using about 1 point a day as my CORE + and about 2 day for ww frozen dessert treats and that kind of thing. I am doing much better this week staying in control. Going away for the holiday weekend last week put me out of my weight loss mindset temporarily, but now I am back on track and doing quite well. Still journalling as I am fascinated with how core fits into my daily point allowance nicely on flexpoints as well. I am trying to stay in that points range as best I can for portion control, not worrying about it all that much. Like Janette was referring to, I am not feeling as hungry in between meals eathing these foods. If dinnertime is a bit later (and it was nearly 7:00 when we ate last night instead of our usual 6 pm, a very busy day) I was "ok" to wait a bit and wasn't grabbing at snacks. About 3 pm I had a bag of microwaved 95% ff popcorn with water and was just fine waitng for dinner which was a grilled chicken salad with ff dressing.
So, here is today's CORE + (CORE, plus one flexpoint) recipe!!!!!!

From The Mystic Seaport's "All Seasons" cookbook by Connie Colom (by the way if you don't know Mystic Seaport, it is in Connecticut USA and a living maritime museum, awesome family place to visit and see incredible stuff, even going on board a real 1700s whaling ship, a three masted schooner! Cool! Great ocean views, great history, horse drawn carriage rides, great giftshop and cookbook!!!!!

Chicken Oriental, CORE +

Skewered cubes of marinated chicken wrapped in snow peas.

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon fresh minced ginger root, or 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
2 whole chicken breasts, skinned and boned
1 13 3/4 ounce can chicken broth (we use ff here, of course)
36 fresh snow peas, blanched, strings removed

Tahini Dipping Sauce:

1 cup plain yogurt (we use ff naturally)
2 tablespoons tahini (here is where you need to count the point - not core)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

NOTE THAT THIS MUST BE MADE AHEAD.... do it in the morning for a carefree dinnertime!

1. Combine soy sauce and ginger in shallow dish; add chicken breasts, turning to coat. Cover and marinate in refrgerator at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Bring chicken broth, chicken and marinate to a boil in a large saucepan; redue heat and simmer 15 minutes. Remove from heat; cool.
3. Separate blanched pea pods into halves. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes. Wrap a snow pea half around each cube or chicken and secure with wooden pick. Cover and chill until ready to serve. Serve with Tahini Dipping Sauce, which is made by combining all ingredients and refrigerating for several hours.
Yield 6 dozen
Bon Appetite!
I'm having this tonight!
Linda in NH

Hi Ladies and Gentlemen:

Hooray for CORE! I agree it is so great not to have to journal and to eat only when I feel hungry. I am eating at least 3 or more fruits per day and I believe that is what I like best about this program. This morning I had two eggs fried in olive oil, two slices of whole wheat toast - 1 pt. with ff cream cheese, and of course my large cup of coffee plus 1/2 peach and cantalope. By eating this way I will stay full until lunch. Thanks for all your great recipes. When I make something exciting, I will also pass it along!

Have a great day!
Anita

Fyi
 

Danny and others who inquired about soup.....check the Thread
Corrections to CFC - third thread down on page.
There are some changes to the soups listed in the CFC booklet.
Check it out for the updated info..........

Hi All...............

Janette, and Nita........yes I am liking the Core more and more. I'm telling you I was the biggest hold out amongst many I have spoken with!!
Today is my 2nd day, although tomorrow ends my week, but that's ok I didnt get near my points range anyway for 4 days (hurricane Frances)

I had lunch and I feel so satisfied it's scary. Not once have I said "gee I'm hungry" in two days.......hhmmmmm
I am coming up with some of my own ideas after reading the recipes from Linda DerryDaughter and others. Boy when you think about it, there is SO much to make and choice ===the skys the limit, and not to have to count!!
I still feel guilty about that. I did journal for the entire day today, and counted points too, but you know what I erased the pts counts and my ENTIRE day is CORE !!!! I truely enjoyed my 1c SF FF choc pudding last night.

I am just a bit scared about w/i....I have been very lucky these past 11 weeks, losing every week.....down 15 lbs in 11 weeks. But now I feel SOOO full I'm thinking I may be gaining, but I am very much into portion control so could it be my mind playing tricks on me or shall I be worried :?:

I wonder if I will continue Core if I DON"T see a change??? How do the rest of you feel??

Oh I have a question......regarding Barley.....since it is not listed as limited like the WW pasta, b. rice or potatoes, does this maybe mean we can perhaps make Barley soup and have it more than once in a day, say lunch and dinner and NOT count the points?? Does anyone know??
Well I will check back later but in the mean time........have a great day, and let us know how you are doing and handling it............Linda

Linda, if it doesn't say barley is limited in terms of the numbers of times in a day, then soup made with it twice during one day is fine, at least that is my humble opinion.
I just had black eyed peas, turkey and string beans for lunch, wasn't craving tons of extra food afterwards, really cool!
Linda (Derry daughter)

I have invested in a box soups to have here at work - my favorites are the Cambell's Southwest chicken Veggie, Split Pea and tomato.

Hey Fried Rice is on the top of my list as soon as I get a stove again - which should be in an hour or so - been without one for almost 2 weeks now. Remodeling kitchen and sold the old one. Can't wait to boil eggs again too!

weigh in after doing core
 

Hi everyone.......my question is...........should I be nervous about w/i after doing Core for the past two day, while the rest of the week I did Flex.
I have been very good and never strayed off program in 11 weeks....losing a total of 15 lbs so far. After all I read about Core I wanted so much to try it.
Even though I did not go past my Target pts all week, and these past two days maybe to the mid 20's (my target is 20) I calculated my pts for the week so far and I have averaged about 22 a day. BUT..........I feel SO full these past two days, like I am now holding on to some weight. Is that weird and am I crazy?? Or am I just so satisfied and not hungry.
Please let me know what you think..........I am very worried about weigh in tomorrow.....but I guess I should tell you all the good bad and indifferent news. Wish me luck...........I may be Flexing AGAIN tomorrow after that!!
Linda

Linda,

It sounds to me you will do fine at WI. By being on the CORE program you are not eating processed foods which in my opinion are what really put on the weight. Tonight I baked two potatoes and then I fried them in a teflon pan with a little olive oil and my husband and I were very impressed with the end result. I also served salmon which I did in George Foreman's grill and also mixed veggies. You are so correct eating until you are satisfied and eating good wholesome food sure does make a difference.

I also went to the mall today and I took along two of those baked oatmeal cookies or whatever you want to call them, a peach and two prune plums. Ordinarily I would have headed for one of the fast food places. I have been on CORE for one week today and have lost 3 lbs. Of course, this is my first week on program and that could account for the loss. I will be anxious to hear your WI results.

Take care,
Anita

Good EARLY Saturday morning.....
Well fellow Core followers.............here's mys story, SAD but TRUE...this is what MY scale tole me bright and early this AM............ +.5 :(
Now granted I did not meet my points target Sat - Wed (Hurricane Frances) and Thur and Friday I did Core........eating things (portion control) from the Core list, but things I would NEVER eat otherwise...like 94%FF popcorn, using Cornmeal to coat my fish, Brown Rice, Couscous, plus I usually w/i on Sunday so I will do that tomorrow....was very courious this AM..and couldn't wait. I am ok, with it, but had thoughts of NOT doing Core and just going back to Flex, but as I sat here and thought and thought, really CORE is very good for us....it DOES allow us to make much better choices....I managed to pick things I would not normally eat just because we could....bad choice on my part. I am NOT giving up.......I have 3 lbs to my WW goal, and have fought long and hard these past 12 weeks to get back to where I should be. I am a lifetime member who fell off the wagon, something I SWORE would never happen to me!!! I think the Core (for me) can still work, I know now what I must rearrange and what to stay away from and have learned in two short days that just because it is on the Core List....doesn't me I have to eat it!!
I will continue my journey and look forward to a successful w/i next week.
I will w/i tomorrow and let you all know what the scale told me.
I have printed out the corrections made to the CFC which is very useful and important information for all of us.
Well as I contiune my journey today I wish you ALL a great OP day and week, and successful weigh ins........Please let us know how you all do.....after all we are in this TOGETHER!!!...............L.J
My log in has changed I am now Sunny734 !!! but that's me!!

I am so glad to hear that you are going to give Core a chance. A full week on the program should show you better results. You are right about not having to eat ALL the Core foods and just because strawberries are on the list doesn't mean I have to eat the whole pint at one setting :o

It gets easier as you go along--if they just wouldn't keep complicating it for us :dizzy:

Have a good day!

Janette

LJ, I almost could have written what you wrote, I too am a Lifetimer who got off the wagon and am trying so hard to stick with Core, as I realize it's much better food choices for me. I am really working hard at portion control, still, as that is something I don't think ww stressed enough during the meeting when the announced core. Though, if you were attending meetings beforehand, you would have experienced a few "pre-core" meetings that were meant to teach us more how to handle Core.
One meeting was something like "how to eat well (meaning well for us not tons of stuff) at a buffet, the other was recognizing when you were truly hungry, etc. They are trying teach and train us how to eat properly and the right amounts!
Today (is it emotional eating as today is the 9/11 anniversary?) I am being SOOOO tempted and want something really rich, sweet and creamy - the ultimate comfort food scenario, I think.
So, I made Flan for my husband and it's only 80 calories a serving and I can have one serving tonight and use 2 of my flexpoints. I will satisfy that urge. Plus, as it's Core, I made sf, ff Jello chocolate pudding and had a serving right away. I am feeling better and still have 21 flex points left before my wi on Tuesday morning.
I've been journalling this week and have kept, on Core, in the old point ranges for my weight up until today. I wanted to "practice" eating Core in the right proportions, it's worked for me.
No, I don't see that the scale has moved so far this week and I have to stop obsessing about it. Each day, day in and day out the scale will change. It's the overall results I am going for, not immediate. Immediate is nice, we all know there are extreme diets out there that can give more immediate results, but this is safe, healthy and what one can truly live with for a long time.
I'm going to check points on a few low carb bread machine mixes when I shop this week. I am craving "real" bread and don't want to give my flexpoints up for that!
I still am not sure why whole grain lower fat breads can't be Core....however, I am totally going by the rules!
I have Bran cerial this moring with skim milk and a half banana. I didn't measure the cerial, I just put in what I wanted and then I was shocked - I couldn't finish it!
I had a grilled, lean, hamburger patty for lunch with black eyed peas and string beans. I love black eyed peas, they are so high in fiber and 1/2 cup is only 1 point, not a bad choice! Totally Core and totally good for me!
One more thing to say, LJ, abou the .5.... my ww leader warned that after a few days on Core that one might see a slight gain as we are increasing our fiber intake a great deal and slowing down our digestive tract. She joked that "once things get moving again" you will see the weight drop. That kind of makes sense, so don't give up!
Eat some fruit, it will "keep you on the go"!
Linda in NH

Very good advice Linda. I was a little worried about giving up my Raisin Bran as I have always depended on it to keep me on the straight and narrow but I found that all the fruits make up the difference.
I just love veggies--that's why Core was tailor made for me!
What you said about the overall result is something we have to keep in mind as it is sometimes hard to watch those hares when you (meaning me) are a turtle, but turtles have hard shells and can withstand the distance.

Hi all you CORE folks,

I, too, am one of those lifetimers. I have been having a problem with 5 to 8 lbs. trying to come back. However, after one week on the CORE program I have lost 3 of those lbs. and have only 3 more lbs. to get back to the two-pound limit. I, too, am eating a lot less this second week than the 1st. Also because I have totally changed my way of cooking my husband, who is a diabetic, is keeping his sugar under control. I am really excited about this because we all know that being a diabetic can play havoc with your overall health. I ate my Old Fashioned Oatmeal with 1/2 nectarine and a half banana. I also served a quarter piece of cantolope and, of course, my cup of coffee with coffeemate (1 pt.). I then went shopping and never really got hungry until I returned about 1:00 p.m. I am also into making those oatmeal bakes that I found on the CORE recipe board because they are something I can take along when I am away from home.

Ladies since I am probably one of the oldest person on this site I can only say this is by far the "very best" program that WW has ever put together.

Take care,
Anita

Nita, you go girl! Sounds like this is meant for you!
Also, Janette, I was surprised that raisins weren't a core food, but I guess it's all the sugar in them? Raisin Bran does have sugar in it, probably lots of it. I also saw that dried fruits (I think???) were not core foods, so my dreams of mixing dried cranberries with a non sugar added cerial for a "taste sensation" isn't going to happen.
However, I think whole fresh cranberries are probably core (will have to look them up) and I have this idea of making something with them.... spent some time this morning looking up recipes in my Frugal Gourmet Cooks American cookbook by the late, great Jeff Smith.
Have to add that Jeff Smith died of heart disease last year, poor guy. So, I guess a lesson to be learned is that all that wonderful food he cooked probably wasn't all that good for him. May he rest in peace! I loved him and his cooking show on PBS and have, I think, all his cookbooks. I began looking for "core" or core adaptable recipes through that book today and didn't see all that much, maybe why he's not around anymore, poor guy!
At any rate, there was an old New England recipe that caught my eye called Cranberry Fool. It uses ground cranberries, sugar and whipped cream and you blend them and serve them in tall wine or champagne glasses. Sounds tasty and elegant.
I began to think that I could cook (micro?) fresh cranberries, if they ARE core (still have to check) and put them in my food processor with Splenda and then mix them with either plain yogurt or a combination of plain yogurt and lite cool whip (which would add a point or two depending on how much one used?) I also gave thought to mixing with ff, sf, Jello vanilla pudding and layer that and the cranberry mixture like a parfait?
Also, in his cookbook were a few chili recipes that would work or be adaptable to Core, but lots of his recipes just wouldn't adapt all that well, sadly. Like I said, guess we know why he'd dead now of heart disease!
We shall take what has been learned about healthy eating, and learn from his demise, I guess? I sure don't want to die from having clogged arteries at 58! I'm 49 now and this is IT for me, I've got to make this happen and be healthy. Look at what's happened this past week with Bill Clinton, they said he was making "fast food" runs for burgers and fries in the middle of the night! Well, more than likely it was the Secret Service making those "runs" for him! At any rate, something we can all learn from.
I love fast food and "bad" things as well. I have to learn and this Core thing is teaching me better than flexpoints ever taught me HOW to make a few things that are "like" what I love to eat, but how to do a better job taking care of me!
Good luck to all!
Linda in NH

I hope that you all don't mind, but I would love to join in your board. My name is Shelley and I am 51 years young.

I have been lurking for quite some time. I have found some great information from all of you. I am trying to switch to Core somewhat. I am actually combining the 2 plans. I am a runner, and eat all my AP's. I don't attend meetings, I lost all my weight with the help of WW online, and the McSkinnys Loozing Floozies board over here. I am going through the change right now, and my hormones are all over the place. I really like the Core plan, because fruits and veggies are my favorite, although I must say that I am a carb addict at heart! Since trying to convert to the Core plan, I have had no candy, which is another big love of my life!

I live in Fl, and right now am fearing Ivan. I know that someone else here is from Fl. also, and had Frances to deal with.

Welcome Shelley
 

Shelley
Thanks for posting...........................you have a great attitude including being 51 years young! I have you beat on the age and count everyday I am alive a blessing! ;)

I did want to make a suggestion about your combining the Core & Flex Plan..........WW suggest that you do one or the other and not mix them..if you want to try both they suggest one week at a time. I would personally think it could be a bit confusing.The fun of Core is not writing down anything except the 35 Weekly points and good health habits ( and activity)!

As far as activity...it is great you already do that. The points you earn can be eaten the day you earn them and should not interfer with your eating.

Remember this is just a suggestion for you...................since you dont attend meetings I didnt know if you knew that or not.

Again........WELCOME! ;)

Cin~

Thanks, Cin. I do know that, just from reading the posts on this very informative board. I guess I am just trying to ease myself completely and slowly into Core! It takes me awhile to jump into something new. Thanks for the warm welcome!

Good morning, Linda,Nita,Janette,CIN, and welcome Shelly and Hello everyone else on board!!
Well I weighed today like I said I would and sorry to say the scale still showed that !@#!@@!# .5 lbs. I am ok with it guess, and after reading that the change in the two programs would do that to my body I was happy. I battled ALL day yesterday...to Core or NOT to Core!!!!! ughhhh. I guess for me it is because I am a dessert person not such a big fruit eater, but I do like my Red Grapes and Bananas. I felt the two days I did Core that the weight was just sticking to me, felt very ver full to the point of uncomortable!
I did Flex yesterday and wound up with 24 pts for the day, and if I were doing core I than used 11 Pts allowances for the day......what to do, what do it.....it is so overwhelming for me. Guess because I want this DARN 3 lbs NOW 3.5 OFF, OFF OFF. My husband says I am a Points person right down to the Core :)
I already had my breakfast and it was more Pts than Core. An Alternate bagel with 4 slices FF Turkey = 2pts I already planned out my day, and most are Pts as opposed to Core selections. I am SOOOOOO :dizzy: confused. I am thinking maybe Core is not for me. If I can lick this dessert thing I have going on inside me then maybe I have a shot, but then again many of the allowables on Core I normally don't eat, like the Brown Rice, Pasta, farina, couscous, etc. Somebody save me from myself, I am making myself NUTS :lol: Today would be the start of my new week so what do you al think. Finally able to go to the grocery store and actually buy some neccessities (sp?) If I use today as my start day for CORE again!!! then I have used 2 of my 35 PA and I can change my other meals, but I was sooo looking forward to my FF hot dogs and 1pt bun, and my NOT Core soup for lunch.........see what I mean, I am making myself nuts (hahahha)
Well I will go through the rest of my day and take it minute by minute, BUT if I do CORE and the scale shows another + again, I know me, I will ber very upset, and then what, fight to then take off maybe another lb???
You all have been so supportive and I am glad I have all of you. We certainly are all feeling the same way about one thing or another. For those of you with the losses from Core these past few weeks...that is fabulous, but let me ask you was it after one FULL week on Core??
Keep us posted, and Shelly best of luck to you.........BTW, I am the one on the East Coast of Florida :) only been here 5 years, so this is our first incounter.....I wish you and all over on that side God's Blessing. This has been really something, and even here, all up and down our coast it is STiLL awful. Well friends, take care and lets stay connected.
Talk to you all later...........L.J.

P.s
 

CIN.......I meant to ask...........why can't we do both meaning...keeping track of the pts that we eat on Core? Is that what WW's means NOT to do?

Or do they mean something else?? Your input is as always very appreicated :)

Thanks......L.J.

Sunny L.J.
 

:lol:
Good Morning
I believe your hubby has a POINT! :lol: :lol: :lol:
You should not feel so torn.....stick with what you do best and am happiest with!

Husbands KNOW us well too!

Cin~ ;)

Sunny-I agree with Cin. Do what works best for you. I am not 100% Core either. We just have to do what works best for ourselves. For me, just not having any candy for the last week has been a miracle! What I have been doing is Core for the early part of the day, and using my AP's for the later part and night time, which is my worst time. I ran 10 miles today, so I have 10 points to use. I will probably use those points to have sf ff fudgsicles tonight and some ff cool whip. BTW, how often are you weighing yourself??? You should be weighing only once weekly. I used to be a twice a day weigher, and now I try to do it maybe once or twice a week. That way, the disappointment of not losing or gaining isn't such heartache. Take care!

The whole idea of core is that "freedom" to you is you can choose from a wide variety of food and eat as much as you need to be satisfied WITHOUT having to track anything except the foods that are not on Core.

If you are going to "point & record" everything..........why not stick with Points? :lol:

Of course you are free to do whatever works well for you..................I just view it as defeating the purpose but that is a pesonal opinion.

And pesonally I love not thinking about points.except my weekly ones which are easily managed to about 5 per day.

Cin ;)

Baking cookies,brownies & cupcakes this afternoon. NOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWthat is a challenge! (without tasting them)For teens Youth group tonight! :lol: :lol: