[AJsMa]

First of all, I'm rather addicted to 3FC. I've been posting my journal for several weeks now and enjoy both the ability to just let it all hang out and feedback.

Second of all, I'm fat! Yep! That's what I am! I've been fat my entire life. I've basically been fighting the battle from day one. And, like most everyone else, sometimes I'm successful. Sometimes I'm not successful.

I married (again) in 2001. I was able to get down to about 160 lbs. Not too bad (even though I am only 5'3", I tend to carry it okay). Then I fell into "contented cow" syndrome (along with my husband). I fought my way back up to 190ish. I started Atkins-ing down to about 186. Then, I realized I was knocked up (this after the doctor's said it wasn't likely - - doctors don't know nothing!!!). Okay, put on 45 pounds during pregnancy. Had the boy. The weight stabilized around 195 - 200. That was two years ago.

I followed Six Week Body Makeover this summer for about 4 weeks and lost 17 pounds. Then the sisters from he** - Katrina & Rita - hit and everyone in the state seemed to gain 20 pounds out of grief and stress.

Now I'm back on my dieting and eating regime. This time, however, I'm trying to consume more calories than suggested by 6WBM (they come out between 800 - 1000 calories/day). I target between 1200 - 1300 calories/day. I bought and use Fitday PC (love it!!!). So far, I've lost 9.5 pounds since 1/17/06.

I was hoping for some feedback/input. Part of the reason I decided I wanted more calories (besides realizing my body needs more calories) is that I do like some sweets. I mainly try and eat whole grain, nutrient dense, lowish fat types of food. But, I have been known to eat a bag of M&M's and a slab of king cake. Even though I'm still losing and staying within my calorie range when I do binge on sweets, do you guys think I can be sabotaging my efforts with these indiscretions?

And, I'm intrigued by the calorie swinging or zig zagging or whatever you want to call it. Since I am still currently losing weight on my plan, should I hold off on trying the zig zagging - - wait until I hit some kind of plateau? And, does it help to stick with a plan long term/overall when doing the zig zagging?

Finally, I'd love to find the right group to chat with for moral support, grousing and such. Any suggestions for a group?

Thanks for your ear/eye!

[LLV]

If you're currently losing, I'd just keep up with what you're doing for now. Zig-zagging, usually, is what we "plateau'ers" do to try and 'trick' the body into kicking up that calorie-burning process a little higher.

My favorite philosophy is this - if it ain't broke, don't fix it

[srmb60]

I agree with the 'ain't broke' thing!

There is, however, a thread for zigzagers and they will probably welcome yu too.

Is there something we can do for you?

[blues4miles]

AJsMa!

I have to admit, I still have bad days and sweets are definitely one of my problems. I'd say if you are still losing, keep going with the momentum, log everything you're eating, count it, and move on the next day and try to do better. I'm still trying to do better every day, and I have bad days, but oddly enough they seem fewer than they were. When you hit a plateau you will probably be more inspired to start giving up those sweets more often, but for now I say just read about and keep doing what you're doing.