Newbie says hi

  • Hi, everyone..

    I have been looking for a group of folks with 100+ to lose. I am 51, and weigh somewhere around 320. It has REALLY begun to impact my health.. for the first time I am having leg and ankle problems. Right now I am not on any particular diet or program. Well, I'll be truthful.. I seem to be eating compulsively at the moment.. can't get started. I have never lost more than 20 lbs in my life. Hope to change that with some support.

    Jen in Tallahassee
  • JEN!!! YOU ARE ME!!!...OR... AM I YOU??? Look down below at my numbers! And, I'm 53 (I think!)...who is that old woman in the mirror??? I can't get a grip on the fact that I'm in my 50's! I surely don't feel it!!!

    I can soooo relate to where you are right now. I was there only last Dec! That's when I came here, and got inspired.

    I count calories, and since I have lost weight before, I practically know them all by heart! I aim for 1400-1600 cal/day. I say 'aim' 'cause I save so many calories for dinner, then eat right, and end up with a deficit!! Can you believe that?? I also keep the fat grams to a minimum (20-30/day), although, there are lots of times I go over...

    But, most importantly, I think, is the fact that I do not deprive myself of anything!!! If I'm 'craving' something, I work it into my daily caloric intake! Also, I get weighed-in on Monday afternoon at my local support group called 'R-Weigh'. Then, after the meeting, my best friend and my mom and I go to a restaurant and eat WHATEVER we want!! Then, on Tuesday, it's back to the plan.

    I eat 3 meals a day and a 'mini-meal' in the evening. It might only be fruit, or a dish of fat-free cottage cheese, or something like that, but, I never get hungry. I eat tons of veggies. I like them cooked most anyway, but, I love them sprayed with butter cooking spray and oven-roasted!! YUM!

    Unfortunately, exercise has to be a part of this, too. I've begun to walk the halls of my apartment bldg. And I use the steps instead of the elevator. It's not a lot for now, but, I'll work it into more. I have a ruptured disc in my lower back, so I have to be careful, but, it should get easier and less painful the more weight I lose.

    Well, my dear, I think I've bent your ear long enough for now. Keep posting here. These people in 3fc are wonderful, helpful people. So, no matter whether you are starting now to lose weight, or just you get your head in the right place to start, keep posting and reading. I really appreciate having someone my age here, too. Guess I'm not the only one who waited this long, huh?!

    So, let's do this thing together, what do you say??

    Good luck, and come back.

    Gayle
  • I just wanted to welcome you and say that I hope you find something that works for you. I think their are a hondred different plans on this site. You will just have to find one that suits you. The one thing we do have in common is that we all need to DRINK, DRINK, DRINK water. I try to get in about 128oz or more every day. It makes me want to eat less. I didn't think i could do it at first but i'm very proud of myself.

    We are here to offer you all the support that you need, as well as lean on you every now and then.

    Hope you like us.

    We also have a chat time. Someone help me with the times.

    wed, and fri

    bella23
  • Thank you!
    Thanks to both of you for the kind welcome and the support. I plan to take your advice about water. How is it I always forget to drink water, but I sure remember to eat??

    I think the calorie (wow, back to my teenage years!) concept might have the most promise for me. For so many years I have done diet after diet where "calories don't count" such as the Susan Powter (sp?), Atkins, etc. I don't think I really know what a reasonable portion is! I am registered on the DietWatch program but have never really used it. I think it might be helpful for me. I didn't mention it, but my husband also has about 100 lbs to lose. I KNOW he'll enjoy Dietwatch 'cause if it is on the computer, it MUST be good.

    One big challenge is to be consistent in using it. Consistency is not my strong suit. But I am more motivated than ever in my life to lose. I do NOT like my legs hurting so. My life is so curtailed. I don't give a hoot about looking gorgeous. I feel I look pretty good most of the time, anyway, and at 51 I have no illusions! But I want my life back while I am still young enough to enjoy it.

    Again, thanks and I look forward to getting to know you better. This is an absolutely awesome message site..better organized and easier to use than any I have been on.

    Jen in Tallahassee
  • Hi Jen. I may be a little late in welcoming you, but Welcome to our lil piece of heaven here. The support and encouragement here is amazing.Make yourself at home, and know in your heart, that you are capable of this!
  • WELCOME!!
    Well you have come to the right place. This board is an awesome place to find support and advice. Welcome and hope to see more of you!!!