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Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824

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VERY Frustrated - Your advice/input please?

by blondie0824
May 5, 2009 10:50 PM
142 Replies
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I am a 29 year old female. Two years ago I had foot surgery and gained 10lbs. in the aftermath. Since then, I have tried everything I can think of to get this darn 10lbs. off. I'm 5'7" and weigh 146lbs. I wear a size 8 jean. So I understand that I don't have a lot to lose and that it's most difficult when you have only 10 - 20lbs. to lose. That being said, here's what I've tried; For 6 months, I did the acid-alkaline diet. I ate mostly raw fruits and veggies. No meat, dairy or processed food of any kind. I was also working out 6 days/week - treadmill, bike and weight routines. I didn't lose any weight. The last 6 months I've been counting every single calorie that enters my mouth. I eat 1,300 - 1,400 calories per day and I've upped my workouts by running and doing Jillian Michaels workout videos 5 - 6 days a week. I still haven't lost a pound. I have arthritis in my hips and knees and desperately want to get this extra weight off. Today I'm starting Weight Watchers as a last ditch effort. If this doesn't work, I don't know what will. It is so terribly hard on my self esteem and motivation to be trying so hard and having no success. I also started using Symlin, which has reduced my daily insulin usage from 27 units to 21 units and still no results. Short of just not taking my insulin or eating, I don't know what else to do. I am so tired of seeing friends and family who go on Weight Watchers or count calories for a month or 2 and are now super thin and healthy. I work 10 times harder than they do and I get nowhere! Sorry, I just needed to get this off my chest and I know that many of you understand this frustration. PLEASE, any advice you may have on what I can do to lose this weight would be VERY appreciated. Thanks!


Tags: diet, weight, body image

From Replies
Diabetic Connect Member Latte Lady
Latte Lady
Latte Lady replied May 5, 2009 11:12 PM 

Last edited 6 months ago

{{Hugs}}
First off, you need a balanced diet. Not just x number of calories. WW will help you with this, if you follow it properly. I would suggest you look hard at the 'simply filling' foods on the food list. They are more complex carbos, and take longer to process. So you don't get hungry, plus all of them are very nutritious.
Also, sometimes when you are restricting your caloric intake too much, your body goes into what is called 'the starvation mode'. Our bodies are very resilient, and if it thinks the low caloric intake will be permanent, the metabolic rate slows waaay down. This was ingrained in our bodies way back in the cave days, to survive long cold winters.
So, have a variety of foods, eat your points range, get a reasonable amount of exercise in. If this fails to budge a few pounds off, show your food journal to your leader. Detailed journal, not just 'bread, milk, veg'. But how much of each.
Hope this is helpful.
That said, 5'7", that 146# is my goal! ;)
I attend WW, but follow what the dietitian wrote up for me. I use the weekly weigh in for accountability beyond my meter reading.
Eileen

blondie0824 replied May 6, 2009 8:34 PM 

Last edited 6 months ago

Oh, a food journal is my best friend! I actually use the Calorie King software in my phone and track everything that goes in my mouth. I'm definitely going to check out the filling foods list you mentioned - thanks! I think I get a pretty good variety of fruits, veggies, etc... but I wonder if maybe that whole thing about your body thinking it will never get more calories applies to me. I'm hoping that WW will help me go the extra mile in making sure I'm getting the right food groups and will break my plateau. Thank you so much for your kind words and advice!

Diabetic Connect Member cakeybakes
cakeybakes
cakeybakes replied May 6, 2009 3:22 AM 

Did you ever think that maybe you ARE the correct weight already and this is your body's way of telling you that you don't have to lose the weight? A size 8 for your height and 146# sounds perfect. Is it that you THINK you look bad, or is it that your doctor really thinks you are unhealthy at this weight? It sounds like you may need to discuss this further with your doctor.

Judimar replied May 6, 2009 7:17 AM 

Hi,

When was the last time you had your thyroid checked?

blondie0824 replied May 6, 2009 8:29 PM 

I had my thyroid check last August, so I'll be due for another check soon. So far, it's been normal. Thanks :o)

blondie0824 replied May 6, 2009 8:32 PM 

Actually, I was at 136 from the time I was 16 until I had the surgery and I was pretty comfortable there. My doctor didn't say I was over weight, but did say that by losing the 10lbs I would be taking an additional 40lbs of pressure off my hips and knees, so that's part of the reason that I want to do it so badly. Of course, the other part is purely that I want to look better (in my own eyes) though I know I'm too hard on myself. Sometimes I wonder if you're right though - maybe my body is trying to tell me something and I'm just not listening. But it seems like if my weight was constant for so many years and I put this weight on because of a surgery, I just feel like I should be able to get back to that "comfort" weight.

ChefLin replied July 23, 2009 11:11 AM 

I agree with her I am 145 and only 5'2 and I don't look too bad. So your probably too thin. As long as you are healthy that is all that matters

Diabetic Connect Member Sarguillo
Sarguillo
Sarguillo replied May 6, 2009 6:54 PM 

Hello, The only thing I can recomend is on the mental aspect of your diet. DO NOT FOR THE LOVE OF GOD WEIGH YOURSELF EVERYDAY. you wont see any improvement day to day and you will get the downs as you dont see the improvement you want to see. So what do we do when we are down? We eat. Its a cycle that is never ending. I only weigh myself when I go see my doctor and I dont allow scales in my house. Balanced meal with lower carbs might be your trick, I myself have hit a plateu that I cant seem to break. But if I keep trying, Im going to overcome it soon. GOod luck.

blondie0824 replied May 6, 2009 8:37 PM 

Yes, not weighing myself every day is sound advice. I used to do that but I got obsessive about it and would beat myself up anytime my weight went up at all. Now I weigh myself once a week, on Mondays, just to make sure I'm keeping in check if nothing else. I think your suggestion about carbs might help too. It's just so darned hard to cut carbs - I don't eat processed foods, but they're still in practially all fruits and veggies! How many carbs do you eat each day? What's a good target for weight loss? Thanks for your time and input!

Anonymous replied May 6, 2009 9:04 PM 

I would try and cut as many carb's as you possibly can. I dont eat but 20-40 carbs a day.

dameyers replied May 6, 2009 9:08 PM 

I have lost 100 pds over the past year and still have 50 to go. I have done that by keeping the carbs out of my mouth. Carbs are bad for a diabetic and you need to cut as many as you can. Try not exercising so much over exercise can be bad to because you are burning to many calories and you body is going into starvation mode.

Vicrgreen replied July 18, 2009 5:45 AM 

When I was in the hospital recently the dietician said I needed 45 carbs (average) per meal. If my choices didn't add up to that they added something in the kitchen beyond my choices.

Sarguillo replied May 6, 2009 10:01 PM 

Im pretty easy on myself as far as carbs. I try to stick to 30-45-60 gs a day. if you think of a slice of bread as 15 g of carbs, then you can eat 2 slices worth of carbs for breakfast, 3 for lunch and 4 for dinner. Just subsitude bread for other carbs you are eating. I myself have lost 100 lbs in the last 2 years. I have another 35 to go. A side benifit is that my wife says I snore less now. Good luck.

Diabetic Connect Member aleddon
aleddon
aleddon replied May 6, 2009 9:16 PM 

My husband has lost a lot of weight by eating very little carbs. He has also cut down on how much insulin he takes dramatically.

Diabetic Connect Member Jocelyn
Jocelyn
Jocelyn replied May 7, 2009 1:01 AM 

I'm sure I don't know the answer, but sometimes stress can block very good habits from working. It isn't unheard of that relaxation skills are beneficial... I was high powered woman for years, and I discovered that learning meditation skills made everything in my life run smoother... I lost thirty pounds the year I learned and practiced meditation... There are so many styles to choose from. Maybe you could try Qigong, or tai chi, or yoga. I learned the Buddist practice of Vipasanna, I love it, but I also like regular Qigong... good luck in finding what works for you... Jocelyn

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied May 7, 2009 11:59 PM 

Wow, so I guess maybe cutting carbs is going to be my number one challenge. How do you manage to only consume such a small number of carbs each day? It seems almost an insurmountable task! What would you eat for a typical breakfast, lunch, dinner? I will definitely have to sit down and work out a new food plan. Thanks everyone for your input, I really appreciate it!

Judimar replied May 8, 2009 4:21 AM 

One thing I've done is switch to whole grain pastas and breads. I use wraps for sandwiches. I keep meaning to try lettuce wraps and just skip the bread altogether for a sandwich but not sure what type of lettuce is best to use for that.

Judimar replied May 8, 2009 5:26 AM 

errr I mean whole wheat or multigrain bread.

Jocelyn replied May 8, 2009 5:21 PM 

I had not heard of lettuce wraps, what a great idea... some of the heartier types, like roamaine might work nicely... good idea, thanks... Jocelyn

Sarguillo replied May 8, 2009 5:26 PM 

I use green leaf to wrap in. Its hearty and holds up well. Has the right amount of give so it wil not break. Big advice, dont put hot food in lettuce. It will cook the lettuce if you do. Yes, a wrap is nice and fresh.

Jocelyn replied May 8, 2009 5:41 PM 

yum, good suggestion... you are so savvy, you! smiles, Jocelyn

cakeybakes replied May 9, 2009 5:51 PM 

Boston bibb or butter (bib) is a great lettuce, too.

Diabetic Connect Member egrind
egrind
egrind replied May 8, 2009 12:39 AM 

As some of the others have stated balance is more important than caloric intake at this point,you are doing everything else,but your leaving out the most important component ,which is protein,we need it to build muscle without it your body will protect itself with a plateau as it believes it will not get anymore, so it adjusts to maintain the status quo in your case 147lbs in my case it was 300lbs. once i added small portions of lean meat or fish i began to lose weight again it's incredible and then went on to lose 35 more pounds.and at this point no longer need insulin and only half the glucophage,but you have the other main component tanacity,stay focused!

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied May 8, 2009 9:30 PM 

OK, so protien and low carbs. I'm going to try that! I hadn't thought about doing lettuce wraps. What do you put in them? I'm trying to avoid lunch meat because it's processed and so high in sodium. Is there anything else you could wrap in them? I've just started getting multigrain wraps. They're tasty and only 17carbs. I've been putting 2 slices of light provolone in them. It's a nice snack. What do you do for protein if you're trying not to eat meat or dairy? I mean, I know there's fish, but I can't exactly wrap some salmon up in a wrap for lunch. Are there other things you can do for protien? It's funny, in some ways I know a ton about nutrition and in others, I feel completely ignorant! Again, thanks everyone for your help!

cakeybakes replied May 9, 2009 5:53 PM 

Last edited 6 months ago

chicken salad, tuna, a little seasoned brown rice, fish (I like salmon), fruit salad, cheese, seasoned black beans with salsa and avacado, or anything else your little heart desires!

blondie0824 replied May 11, 2009 12:28 AM 

Thanks for the great filling suggestions. I can't wait to get back from SC and try out some of these ideas. Thank you!

Sarguillo replied May 11, 2009 5:53 PM 

Hello Blondie, I love BLT's so I just wrap bacon and tommatoes in a slice of lettuce. I tend to also wrap just about anything else that comes along. If you can put it in a sandwich, you can wrap it in lettuce. Keep a towel handy if the wrap does break. Nothing like leaking tomatoes or dripping mayo. Oh yeah, cant make a Dagwood in lettuce. Sorry. My personal favorites: fryed bolo with mayo and cheese. BLT, Club, Cold turkey and mayo (for day after Thanksgiving), cold cuts and cheese, Tuna salad (wrap it like a burrito), Egg salad, ECT.

Diabetic Connect Member Nikki09
Nikki09
Nikki09 replied May 9, 2009 2:06 AM 

happened to me when I went to the doc for his intake, he said he was going to check my bloodwork for thyroid problems and guess what I came up postive for an underactive thyroid. I have a hard time losing weight and when I do it comes back asap. I would check with the doc about your thyroid. don't take no for an answer. I did and spent years not knowing I had this problem. good luck.

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied May 15, 2009 1:30 AM 

So what do you do on vacation? How do you keep your carbs reasonable? Especially for breakfast. I'm really struggling to eat healthfully and it's only been 2 days! Thanks,

cakeybakes replied May 15, 2009 1:58 AM 

Eggs, eggs, eggs, fruit, meat, fish. Pop Tarts are NOT an option! Have fun on vacation!

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied May 15, 2009 1:30 AM 

So what do you do on vacation? How do you keep your carbs reasonable? Especially for breakfast. I'm really struggling to eat healthfully and it's only been 2 days! Thanks,

Momto3 replied May 15, 2009 3:07 AM 

Veggie omelettes, fruit salad, scrambled eggs with cheese, South Beach protein bars, oatmeal with sugar free syrup and/or fruit, blt - whole grain wrap or bread there's lots you can do! I am working on the carb thing myself and have learned that an apple and a stick of string cheese makes a pretty satisfying breakfast!!! Good luck and keep up the good work!

Diabetic Connect Member lipsie
lipsie
lipsie replied May 15, 2009 9:26 AM 

Hey hun, just wanted to wish you well, and support yas. I am really the last one to speak to about diet at this time, I am the learning stages myself. And just know carbs are a HUGE deal! lol So good luck sweet! * Hugs* Love assssssss Sheila

Diabetic Connect Member mrdanalee
mrdanalee
mrdanalee replied May 16, 2009 5:04 AM 

Dear Blondie,
My only advice is if u think u can't u can't. Wonderful advice on diets. I wish I could do the diets. My solution which took me from 60units to 30 a day was to go to Africa. In Kenya I walk everywhere.The diet is Ugali and Spinach with fresh Tilapia. The cheapest meal had there was rice and bean soup for about 12cents. I wish u could experience Africa and know that here in the USA we have to much. When I went to Africa I had to have a circumcision because of my diabetes. As I lay in the emergency room dieing screaming with incredible pain they would not attend me until I paid the bill. This was during the riots and getting to the hospital was very dangerous. I am sorry this isn't answering u except to say shift your focus from losing weight into enjoying life.
A thing that shocked me was that in the public hospital there were two patients per bed and sometimes as many as three. Outside the USA you can go to a pharmasist and get any medicine without prescription. Here u can die in front of the counter and they won't give u medicine.
Anyway I have put my two cents in.Be glad u live in America because outside these borders life is very scary.
As the law of attraction says what you focus on and believe then that will happen. Your focus is you can't lose weight and u are right u can't. Somehow u must see yourself as losing weight and magically that will happen.
I have lived a life of miracles and the truth for me has been that.
Take care.
Dana Lee


Celia replied May 23, 2009 6:30 PM 

Wow good advice. It would be great to have a little of the good from all the different cultures here in the states. Any way good life advice from your experiences.

Diabetic Connect Member Marie
Marie
Marie replied May 16, 2009 3:52 PM 

Hi I just wanted to add this. From the sounds of it you may be doing too much on your workouts. After a while you will start to build muscles and not lose the weight. See if your body is getting firmer. See if where you workout if there is a trainer you can talk to, to see if you are doing the right exercises to lose weight and firm up but not build muscle. Good luck.

Diabetic Connect Member planner30117
planner30117
planner30117 replied May 16, 2009 5:02 PM 

Hi Blondie,

It sounds as though you are going through a similar scenerio that I have battled. For over four years, I watched the calories, exercised religiously with the same results. By chance, I spoke to my doctor about about the lack of weight loss and her response was we needed to check the thyroid. She scheduled a radiological scan for me and based on the results, I was diagnosed with a hypothyroidic condition and was placed on thyroid medicine to increase the metabolic rate. Though we are still searching for the right dosage ( I understand it can take 6-12 months to obtain the correct dosage) I do feel the battle with the weight is going in the right direction. Not to say this is your prognosis but I would certainly suggest ruling it out. Good luck.

Vicrgreen replied July 23, 2009 9:29 AM 

I've been on tyroid medication since 1970. However I have to take Armour (or desicated) Tyroid as the synthetics don't work for me. You might want to have your doctor check this option if you are having problems arriving at a proper dosage.

Diabetic Connect Member strictly sugar free candy
strictly sugar free candy
strictly sugar free candy replied May 16, 2009 5:36 PM 

I have to drop calories to 1,200 per day;and swimming is the best exercise!!
I used to do triathlons, but my joints can"t take that kind of pounding...too high impact. I ride a bike, and swim.

Pat Roth replied June 28, 2009 8:36 PM 

I recently discovered that my old love ofthe past week, when striclty the chair exercises at the Wellness Center helped a bit, but not nearly enough! I am 77 years and learned to SWIM some, float, TRY to swim like I observe on TV (haha--well, it is moving at least!)at 62 years and love it for stress, coolness (here in Ks. in harvet time) and fun! For 3 years I had tried other methods to lower my BS, and although my BS isn't really too high( highest has been 190) my weight is also starting to slip off. I had weighed 215 to 230 for 30 years (weighed 119# in high school--so--)Now I am DOWN to 214# and 5 ft. 3 in. (shrunk 3 inches) I know, that isn't much but I will take it as a new beginning! ANd swimming is making it fun! Trouble is, after the summer pool closes there is no place to go! Pat Roth

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied May 16, 2009 6:14 PM 

Thanks (again) everyone for your input. I will definitely be getting my thyroid check when they do my annual blood work. I think I might also try to use another form of birth control because I know that the pill can cause you to keep on weight. As far as diet, once I get home tomorrow I'm going to write up a new food plan that will be much lower carb, higher fiber with more good fats and see how that goes. I'd love to swim, but don't have anywhere to do that, so I'm going to try to get back into running and see how my knees and back hold up. I've had arthritis since I was 13, so sometimes I just can't run. I know that working on my self image also needs to be part of this whole process. I have some pretty big body related issues and I know I need to figure out how to be okay with my body just the way it is because it is what I have right now and possibly for the rest of my life. Maybe if I could do that I would lose the weight just because I would no longer hate my body so much. idk. I'm glad I've gotten some great ideas from you all and I'll definitely be trying many of them. I'll let you know how it goes! And of course, keep the good ideas coming :o)

Vicrgreen replied July 23, 2009 9:35 AM 

Before your doctor's appointment you might try checking your temperature first thing in the morning before you get out of bed for several days in a row. If it is consistently low that is a good indication of a thyroid problem. My doctor had me doing that a while back when we were dealing with some problems with my medication. He was trying me on synthetic thyroids again. Now I'm back on Armour Thyroid and the problems are again in abeyence.

blondie0824 replied July 24, 2009 8:27 PM 

Thanks for the suggestion, I'll try that!

Pat Roth replied July 24, 2009 8:35 PM 

What is Armour Thyroid? I am on Synthroid .175 a day and have done fine for 50 years. (I was on other types too, but don't remember--) Thanks, PR


I'm using Privacy Manager
Anonymous replied May 16, 2009 11:06 PM 

Last edited 5 months ago

You seem to have been too obsessed by weight control.you need to just relax.Find your creative ways to spend time like embroidery, gardening or doing transandental meditation. I tried to loose wieght by Ayurvedic method.My husband sent me to India for 3 months in 2003.I had knee problem and the doctors had recommeded knee replacement but I choose to go to India.I even thought the worst nightmares could happen like I would be on a wheel chair.But after my Panchakarma treatment for 3 months I was surprised.I lost 27 lbs all over.I flew back to USA all by myself carrying my luggage without complaining.What about the expenses that I spared for lifetime for my fmaily by not opting for surgery!In some cases you do have to chooses surgery.I am still healthy and nice and good.I can walk run jump and drive and climb a step stool without my pain.I even finished my schooling. I am consulting my naturopathy consultant at New Jersey.He has given me some supplements for weight management.But I still believe that the key is in responsible eating and exercising and finding something that you are passoinate about in life that keeps you going.I like gardening and have started to feel energetic.log on to the website integrated nutrition and follow all the recipes . They are amazingly good!
ct resident

MilkMan replied May 17, 2009 12:41 AM 

(((((((((Blondie))))))) I understand your frustration hon. But your Dr and your WW sponsor should be able to figure this out.
Personally, I think your workouts are probably building muscle and therefore the weight is not dropping.
I hope you and the Dr and sponsor can get to the bottom fo it.

MilkMan

Diabetic Connect Member Sarguillo
Sarguillo
Sarguillo replied May 18, 2009 6:23 PM 

I just got back from Reno, 4 days off for a mini vacation with my wife. For breakfast, I did the buffet. I like them because they usually have a variety of items and I can choose which items I wanted. I had one slice of bacon, a small pork chop, some fruit and eggs. For a carb I chose a mini bagel and some cream cheese. I did drool over my wife's Pinapple upside down pancakes but I didnt try them. its all mind over matter at some point. Good luck on your journey.

blondie0824 replied May 18, 2009 8:44 PM 

Way to go not having the pancakes! That's always a struggle for me and I think a big part of how I sabotage myself at times. Sometimes it's just really difficult not to just be angry that I can't have what other people can. At least, not without paying for it in one way or another. I hope you had a fabulous vacation! Ours was nice, though we chose a crappy hotel that only had carbs in their continental breakfast. Won't make that mistake next time!

Sarguillo replied May 18, 2009 8:55 PM 

hey Blondie, Remember, there is nothing that they can eat that we cant. We just have to watch our portions alot more than they do. So if you want to taste it, please do. Just dont go how wild and eat like a pig. If you have a craving for an item, dont deney yourself that item. Myself, I love peanut butter cups. I buy a bag of the mini peanut butter cups and eat one eveynight after dinner. Its my chocolate fix for the day. Of course if my numbers are not in the control I expect, then I need to forego that tasty cup. If we dont completly deney ourselves of what we want or need, it makes it easier to keep to our diet. But I did talk to my wife, and next time we have Breakfast for Dinner, we are going to try to make the pinapple upside down pancakes. I will eat one. She can have all the others. Of course I will plan it into my meal for that day.

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied May 18, 2009 8:40 PM 

Thanks everyone! I'm so happy to be back from vacation and I'm going to work on a meal plan before we grocery shop tonight. I'm sure I will be referring to all of your helpful hints in doing this and I can't tell you how much I appreciate everyone who chimed in. Thank you all and anything else you think of in the realm of weight loss would be most appreciated. Take care,

Diabetic Connect Member Dancehawk
Dancehawk
Dancehawk replied May 18, 2009 9:04 PM 

Ok first off breath.
When we are to hard on our selves we get stressed and that can slow down weight loss too, plus being a diabetic it is a little tougher for us.
You spoke to your doctor? your exercising eating ok, My doctor told me to eat 6 small meals to help keep the fuel there to burn because other wise your body gets hungrey and holds back from letting the cals burn.
Try that ohh can you post a day list of meals for us that will help too to see if theres dishs we can sub to help.
And check hormons too hormones play a big big part and if they are out of wack loosing weight tends to be very hard to do.
Weight watchs is good but you will have to madifie some of it to fit your needs.
How much veggies do you eat?
To drop mine I ate 3/4 veggies each meal very little meat I used the shrimp a lot for meat no rice.
let us know hun and we all here will try to help you.

Hugs
Catherine

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied May 19, 2009 12:29 AM 

OK, so here is the new meal plan:

Breakfast - Whole wheat english muffin (24 carbs) with one whole and one egg white scrambled with a low fat slice of provolone cheese.

AM Snack - 2 egg whites and one small banana (20 carbs)

Lunch - One whole wheat wrap (17 carbs) with 2 slices low fat provolone, cucumber and tomatoes. 1 sm/med apple (19 carbs)

Aft Snack - 6oz. Yo Plus yogurt (20 carbs) plus 1 cup cucumber (with peel for fiber)

Dinner - 4 oz. shrimp pan cooked in EVOO. 1/2 cup baked yam (18 carbs) and 1 cup brussel sprouts (15 carbs).

PM Snack - ??? Maybe a mandarin orange or a soy joy bar (both about 15 carbs)

Total here is about 145 carbs. Is that still too high? It's so darned difficult to plan this out! This meal plan leaves me at just under 1100 calories for the day, but I don't know how I can add many more calories without adding more carbs? UGH! This is so frustrating. Thanks everyone for your help...

Sarguillo replied May 19, 2009 5:03 PM 

The answer is to test out this meal plan. Test before your meals and about an hour and a half after your meals. Make sure you are logging your results. If it works for you, then go for it. If you want to eat more, try non root vegtables. That seems to be our free-er foods. Sounds like you are putting in the work. You should be seeing good results to your efforts if you are not already. Good luck.

egrind replied May 21, 2009 6:34 AM 

Great menu i think i'll try it two times a week

Pat Roth replied June 28, 2009 8:48 PM 

If I behaved and STUCK to that kind of diet, SURELY I would lose more---I HATE to FEEL deprived! I was always hungry as a kid and new wife---almost panic if my pantry isn't well stocked, BUT am trying to accumulate healthier foods. I love potatoes and sweet potatoes too, but even if I eat only 2 or 3 bites, it zips up my BS, then probably my weight. I also belong to TOps but we socialize more then WORK at it--so I need to take the club more seriously and make it work FOR me! Everywhere I read, don't eat this or that, some foods I felt were safe, aren't! For awhile I got so I didn't even WANT to eat, ANYTHING! Unusual for me! I also have an underactive thyroid but my Dr checks it once a year and is OK. When I first was diagnosed with a low thyroid and put on medication, I LOST 40 # in 1 or 2 months, THEN my system seemed to adjust to it, and now I have to watch it AGAIN!! I so want to be FREE of all restrictions-----But I also don't want to lose my legs, then my life to diabetis, like my first cousin did! I am an only child and have no one CLOSE to compare to! Pat Roth

Diabetic Connect Member alwaystryin
alwaystryin
alwaystryin replied May 19, 2009 6:28 PM 

Last edited 5 months ago

My input as a Caregiver is this. Relax, sit back, see the love and commpasion the Family has, and know that everyone's (for the most part!) advice, words of support etc. are as genuine than most places anywhere.

In addition to this lovely Community, may I also extend my personal invition to check out a NEW, exciting and every minute changing Communty of Diabetics as well as non 'D's. And may I say welcome to the New World...

TMoore
Diabetic L.I.F.E WON and
Diabetic Kidz 4 Life
http://www.diabeticlifewon.com

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied May 23, 2009 7:06 PM 

This week has been rough. I admit it, part of my challenge is that I am a closet compulsive eater. It's strange how it seems to come and go. For the last 8 months or so, I haven't had the compulsion to eat, but lately it's come back. Now granted, I'm still eating healthy stuff, but that doesn't mean that I'm not eating waaay too many carbs and calories when I can't get a handle on my compulsion to eat. I'm stuffed, but I still eat. It's like I need to feel that fullness. It's so strange and I don't understand it at all. It frustrates me and makes me feel even worse about myself and I don't know what to do about it. I saw a counselor once upon a time who told me to just stay busy and do things to keep my mind off of it. But it's a compulsion. No matter what else I'm doing, the back of my mind is continually telling me that I need to have whatever the food is that I'm focused on. Does anyone else experience this? I feel like it's sabotaging my weight loss efforts.

Sarguillo replied May 26, 2009 8:16 PM 

Been there. Used to think that I had to get my moneys worth at a buffet so I would skip eating early meals and pig out, then not eat dinner. Not the correct way to eat for me. I also notice that if it was somthing I liked, I could eat and eat and eat, even when I was full, and continue to eat. Have you ever been to a crab feed? All the pasta, Garlic bread you want then they bring out the crab. All the crab you can eat. Have you ever sat down and ate crab for 3 hours straight? I have. Was way full at the end of hour 1, but you have to get your moneys worth since you paid $35.00 for that ticket so you eat for another 2 hours. I always ate more than $35.00 worth of crab. Now I know batter. I know that I can go to one of those and eat just the right amount. No bread. No pasta, only one glass of wine, Savor the crab I do eat. DOnt allow others to force you to eat more. Get up from the table when I am finished. ITs hard, I want to sit back down and chow down on more food. Its a journey. Its hard. You and I will be tempted and tried. We will win some, loose some. Learn some. And eat some.
Good luck with your journey.

blondie0824 replied May 29, 2009 12:28 AM 

I'll say it again... Thank you for your insight - it's nice to know that others understand! You're right, knowing when to say "when" is half the battle and is certainly something I struggle with. In my family, I grew up racing my dad to be the first one done with my meal and I've never been able to quite kick the speed eating habit. Of course, that means I'm stuffed long before I even know it and believe me, I can pack it in with the best of them when the food is tasty and available! I'm really trying to condition myself to put half of my meal in a to-go container when I eat out. Or at least to eat more slowly and ask the waiter to take my plate away when I'm full so I can't continue to eat. I guess this will always be a battle, but I hope that I can win the war. Thanks again for your support :o)

Judimar replied May 29, 2009 2:38 AM 

One thing my husband taught me is that it takes 20 minutes for your brain to realize your full. That's why it seems if you eat slower you feel full faster. He can't remember where he learned this fact, but I find it's pretty accurate.

Pat Roth replied June 28, 2009 9:00 PM 

Eating SLOW! Well, I do, simply because I have GURD etc, and if I eat too much , too fast, it starts backing up, and that HURTS! But I still WANT more!!I am 5'3"and am finally down to 214#, which is way too much, BUT a new beginning. You still have to watch what you put into your mouth, and I HATE that! I feel rebellious, resentful, "I will eat whatever I like, and when I like it, thank you!!"

But I am trying to adopt a new attitude, "I will eat so much, then stop, because I CHOOSE TO" Somehow that puts me back in the driver's seat! Did I mention that I hate to be told what to do? At 77 years I feel, "where are the perks??" hahah OK, so there are rules here too, if only for our own health!! CHEEZZ, but I sure am glad to hear that I am not ALONE!! I hate to be the only one that has to struggle! when I was young, I was malnourished, a Dr told me so---- What hoppened??!! ha Pat Roth

lipsie replied May 27, 2009 1:12 PM 

I feel for you for I face the same problem. Though I am NOT eating all the healthy foods like you are. I have just started checking out different things/ways of eating but its not getting me very far and then the worst is I eat even when I am not hungry or when full, I know it, I disgust in myself for it at the same darn time even yet I still do it...I dunno I wish I knew the answer for both of us. *Hugs* Just wanted you to know you are NOT alone! Love yasssssss Sheila

blondie0824 replied May 29, 2009 12:29 AM 

It's awful isn't it? You know you're stuffed but somehow you just can't help yourself. I feel like I should be in Food Addicts Anonymous. The problem is, you can't quit food cold turkey. Best of luck to you. Maybe we can help eachother find a way out of this terrible cycle.

Pat Roth replied July 20, 2009 4:24 PM 

Ha--To show you how addicted I am to food, I read that "You can't quit eating, cold turkey!" and my mouth started watering, looking for the TURKEY!! ha--Chheeez, Pat!

I am finding if I set out a certain amount, then STOP, DO NOT TAKE that ONE EXTRA BITE, somehow it is easier to NOT eat more. But if I think, "oh, just one more bite won't hurt!" It sure does, then I am off running and telling myself, well, maybe next time I can control it--start over, but with that frame of mind-that is why I have been overweight for 40 years!! USED to be skinny, but was always hungry then, NOT a choice, I think that that is one reason I have so much trouble, I DO NOT WANT TO FEEL HUNGRY AGAIN!! BUT---am practising a better eating habit so maybe that issue won't pop up so often!! I will be armed with a good habit--AM TRYING TOO!! PR

blondie0824 replied July 21, 2009 5:00 PM 

Wow, I'm amazed by how closely your feelings and thoughts mirror mine... And here I thought I was the only one. I'll have to try that trick and see if it helps. Thanks Pat! I hope that you're able to conquer the voice in your head and I hope that I can too. I wish it was more like an alcohol addiction. At least you CAN quit that cold turkey!

Amber

Pat Roth replied July 23, 2009 4:19 AM 

Thank you, Amber! I really try to not get ticked at those who eat a certain amount, THEN QUIT, Never tempted to take that extra bite. (My husband is one of them --holds to a certain weight, and proud of it, as he should be==BUT--ha It is refreshing to read your post too!!! Your Friend Pat roth

Diabetic Connect Member P2putt
P2putt
P2putt replied May 27, 2009 3:01 PM 

Last edited 5 months ago

I can really empathize with you. I'm at a plateau myself. Reading what others have suggested is quite helpful. I stongly recommend that you reduce your carbs.the luttuce rap is a great idea. Reminds me of the Atkin days. You date your weight gain with leg surgery? Is it posible that this is an association in time but not a causative factor. Give it some thought.I agree with all the suggestions that were given and find it difficuly to provide anything new.Know that you are not alone. Many of us are struggling with the same or similar obsticles. Stay on track and Good luck Pete

P2putt replied May 28, 2009 4:07 PM 

Last edited 5 months ago

Sorry for what was deemed inappropriate. Hope this passes.Pete

blondie0824 replied May 29, 2009 12:26 AM 

Hi Pete, thanks for your insight. The weight gain was definitely associated with the foot surgery. I was pretty much off my feet and wearing running pants for a month. When I went back to work clothes, they no longer fit. Sadly, I think because I was immobile and not wearing clothes that really fit, I didn't even realize I was putting on weight until it was too late. Thanks very much for your support and letting me know I'm not alone. It really does help!

Pat Roth replied June 28, 2009 9:05 PM 

Knee surgery? Were you an athlete? I am 77 yrs and have now had both knees replaced in the past 3 years. How young to start down that path! Hope it lasts a LONG TIME! I am onery, but, just have your husband cook for you that month that you recuperate, and that would help ME Lose! ha PR

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied May 29, 2009 12:24 AM 

Thanks all for your support. Although I wouldn't wish this obession with food on anyone, it is nice to know that I'm not crazy and I'm not alone. It seems so insane to me that while part of me totally recognizes that what I'm doing is wrong and self-sabotage, I seem unable to stop myself. I've ordered some books from the library by Geneen Roth, who is supposed to be an expert in this sort of thing. I'm desperately hopeful that she can help me gain some insight on what is going on with me and how to deal with it. Right now I'm feeling fat and defeated. I've got to find a way back to being able to stick to my food plan and nothing else. I think the number one problem is that I've started eating processed foods again. This means that there are tasty packaged treats ripe for the picking in my cabinet. I think that once I get through what I've bought, because it is all healthy stuff, I'm going to have to go back to a whole foods diet. I think that's the only way I can keep myself from binge eating at night. Anyone who has insight on how they beat their food obsessions, your input would be most appreciated. I also need to get back to the point where I can just stop eating when I'm full. And for that matter, eating more slowly so that I KNOW when I'm full before I've way over done it. I was so disciplined for a while. I just hope that I can get back to that point. Even if I don't lose any weight, I'll feel a lot better about myself if I can just conquer this food problem. Thanks again for your support all. I can't tell you how glad I am to have found you!

Judimar replied May 29, 2009 2:51 AM 

It sounds like you have accepted and faced that you have a problem... that is half the battle. The next step is to try and find a counselor who you feel comfortable with so you can figure out what is causing you to compulsively eat. Blondie, there is nothing wrong with going to counseling. I know that for some people they think others will label them as "crazy" or that something is wrong with them. I was hesitant to go to counseling at one point in my life, but now I am glad I did! All of us need an unbiased third party to talk things through at certain times in our life. Friends are great for venting but because they love us or so close to us, it is hard for them to step back and help you find the answers that are there inside of you. A good counselor doesn't judge you or tell you what to do or how you should feel. Instead they will listen and ask you questions to help guide you to finding the answers you need.

I am not sure if this is something you had given any thought to, but please consider it. You are precious to so many people... to me and the rest of the people here at DC, to your family and friends. And remember, don't beat yourself up for your shortcomings. We are all human and we all have them. They are part of what make us special and unique.

*hugs*

Judi

blondie0824 replied May 29, 2009 9:44 PM 

Thanks Judi. Yes, I actually am a big believer in counseling. It's the one thing that got me through a very difficult point in my life and I'm grateful to have had the option then. Unfortunately, my new insurance doesn't cover counseling, so that isn't an option for me right now. I actually had a counselor that I really connected with, but it was $135 a session! When my insurance covered it 90/10, it wasn't a problem, but once they switched us, it became way too expensive. Sigh. But, I'm hoping that they'll modify our plan to include counseling next year. Doubtful, but I'm remaining hopeful! Thanks for your kind words.

Judimar replied May 30, 2009 4:41 AM 

You're welcome hon :)

I so understand where you're coming from on the insurance thing. My husband and I had to switch insurances and it's been pretty rough. I'm pulling for you :)

*hugs*

blondie0824 replied May 30, 2009 10:16 PM 

Thanks :o) It's definitely a struggle, trying to stay healthy when it comes down to the money aspect. But having found you all here definitely makes this whole thing easier!!!

Pat Roth replied June 28, 2009 9:15 PM 

I am almost embarrassed to share that I am77 yrs and have Medicare, which pays for most of my expenses. BUT, I have been in counseling over 45 years so it wasn't always that way! NO INSURANCE at all, and had 4 young children and a husband that worked hard for a farmer, BUT no insurance or other benefits.

I finally got so I could work as a nurse-aide, and went up from there. It was rough, meds were high even then accordingly. I was on Mellaril and Elavil, and still was deeply drpressed. BUT in helping others, it seemed to give me the emotional boost I so desparately needed! I had a strict food budget, NO weight gain in our family at THAT time---no pop, no fast foods, but lots of POTATOES, casseroles etc. beans--thank heavens that I wasn't diabetic THEN, just border-line! It seems to help if you can do a little something to apply to the expenses! I am just now getting down to the CORE of my own problems---too numerous to mention, a 2 ft. colon resection because of too many spells of divertivulitis, (for one result of NERVES-CONSTIPATION---.) BEST OF LUCK, and may you find your own solutions!! Pat Roth

Momto3 replied June 2, 2009 1:04 PM 

Hi blondie! You stated that there are "tasty packaged treats" in your cabinet that you have to go through before you go back on a whole foods diet again. No you don't!!! If you think these processed foods are a problem, no matter how "healthy" you think they are, you DO NOT HAVE TO EAT THEM! Maybe throw them out, give them to a local food pantry if they are unopened, or if you positively cannot do either and feel you must consume them, take a bite or 2 then immediately throw them in the garbage...or the litter box, or the toilet...or spray it with Lysol - anyhting to make it less appealing. I know you don't want to waste food, but your health and mental well-being are much more important! Good luck!!

Diabetic Connect Member Awedree
Awedree
Awedree replied May 30, 2009 10:39 PM 

I feel for you as I have struggled with my weight forever. You sure are doing all the right things. Have you actually put on the clothes you wore before your surgery? With all that toning and aerobics you have been doing you probably lost fat but ALSO added muscle mass which weighs more than fat but takes up less room. I am sure you will get there. Just don't do what a HS buddy of mine did when she took extra insulin to burn off the weight. She died in her 20's after one too many times of that mistake

blondie0824 replied May 31, 2009 4:03 PM 

Thanks Awedree :o) I never mess with my insulin to lose weight, that's for sure, so no worries there. I've actually found some books through the library that I'm hoping will help me to find a way to at least stop this obsessive eating issue, if not to also lose some weight. I'll let you all know if I find any that I think are particularly enlightnening! Thanks for your concern and input :o)

Diabetic Connect Member colt_fan
colt_fan
colt_fan replied June 3, 2009 2:10 PM 

Good luck!

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied June 5, 2009 8:31 PM 

Thanks all. I just joined Weight Watchers. I figure I'll go for a month and see if they have anything valuable to teach me... I've got to get this in check. I'd love to lose 8 - 10 lbs. by my birthday in late August. We'll see how it goes.

Fmlbndit replied June 6, 2009 6:26 PM 

Last edited 5 months ago

Blondie I want to extend my deepest apologizes to you for your recent weight gain but for some reason I believe you are not as bad as I am. I am a type 2 diabetic and I love to eat all the time. 24/7 that being said 9 years ago I had 4 strokes and gained more than a 100 plus pounds going from 115 to 236 now. I find it very hard to do the exercises now with what all I have wrong with me. My own mother told me I needed to go have Gastric Bypass Surgery.

blondie0824 replied June 7, 2009 12:25 AM 

I'm sorry to hear that. I'm sure that you can lose the weight with the support of the amazing people here. Please let me know if there is any advice, input or support that I could give to help you. It's a long road, I know, but I have faith that you can get there!

Diabetic Connect Member RaleTrail
RaleTrail
RaleTrail replied June 6, 2009 7:15 PM 

I am 5'8" and weigh about the same as you. I am thin, and although I would like to lose a few pounds, it is not a priority. Rather than change your diet...try going to a gym a few times a week. When I was on a diet years ago, I think I ate 1200 calories a day. Also, less carbs, and more protein.

Diabetic Connect Member RaleTrail
RaleTrail
RaleTrail replied June 6, 2009 7:34 PM 

I have another suggestion. Everyday I eat...Breakfast 1/2 cup of oatmeal (cooked a cup). Oh, I also put a tbs. of crunchy peanut butter in the oatmeal. Lunch a sandwich with three meat exchanges, plus yogurt, Dinner I usually have a Smart One Dinner, or Lean Cuisine. I try to only eat 300 calories at dinner. At bedtime, I have yogurt, or peanut butter on a slice of bread.

blondie0824 replied June 7, 2009 12:27 AM 

Last edited 5 months ago

Thanks for your input! I just started Weight Watchers and my first goal is to drop 5% of my weight, which translates to 7lbs. I'm going to try to keep my points on the lower carb side, which is very difficult because proteins tend to be higher in fat. I will let you know how it goes and what I find works for me or doesn't work. I love oatmeal and I might try to work that in since it's only 2 points, but we'll see how it goes, since it is higher in carbs. It's very difficult to balance everything - calories, carbs, fats, proteins. As far as working out goes, that I can say I do frequently. I shoot for 5 days a week an hour a day. It's all a lot of work, but I'm hoping to lose my 14lbs. by my birthday - August 24th. OY!

Diabetic Connect Member michaeldbarnett
michaeldbarnett
michaeldbarnett replied June 10, 2009 12:23 AM 

I now have diet control of my diabetes.
Use to wiegh 220 now 180.
Did following instead eating from 8" plates
now use 6" plates. I also make myself eat
one serving, no more seconds.
Made myself not eat like a truck driver.
Still losing weight and happy with new me.
h

lipsie replied June 10, 2009 10:31 AM 

Great job! Keep that up! *Hugs* Sheila

blondie0824 replied June 12, 2009 6:26 PM 

That's awesome, I'm so glad that you've found something that works for you!

Diabetic Connect Member grandma4
grandma4
grandma4 replied June 11, 2009 11:10 PM 

i have been lossing weight. i have been cutting everthing i eat in half. i do not eat anything white. and try for 2 times the fiber. and because i have so many health problems most joint pain the big A the doctors cant find something for me to do so i got one of those balls and i do sit up and leg lifts and it helped me a lot.. i do it will i watch TV i also cut out almost all cokes and drink water i drink coffee in the morring to help me go. and i put lemon in the water to help take the water out of my cells.. all i know is what i am doing is working.. i lost 40lbs. i also sit on the ball when i am at the computer..

Jocelyn replied June 12, 2009 12:25 AM 

those are all great tips and effective exercises along the line of strengthening your core muscles. You can also place the ball on the wall,level of your middle back, and lean into at a slight slant, then roll twist to one side then the other... this loosens up the tightness in your back and serves to give your an increasing range of motion, improving posture... those ball exercises are great...there is a set of little balls you can get, to exercise with too... the purchase includes an instruction book with lots of exercises to strengthen core muscles, and many of them are ones you can do lying down... have fun...

lipsie replied June 12, 2009 11:33 AM 

You sound like you are doing awesome!!! I am impressed! Great job! I need to start doing the same kind of things too. Hmmm but quitting smoking is my first challenge...and I will work hard of that alone first...and hope to apply other great habits in with it at the same time. Thanks for the inspiration, cuz that's what it is to me! *Smiles* Sheila

Jocelyn replied June 12, 2009 3:02 PM 

recovery is a long road for most of us, and a a harsh teacher...but it can give us disciplines we never knew we could achieve... things that once knocked us off our tracks hardly phase us after going through the adversity that challenges us beyond what we once couldn't have imagined. And, you learn to depend on yourself in relationships of inter-dependency, rather than co-dependency, which makes all the differerence in the world in making real progress... there is a bully mentality in the world with lots of people who practice tearing down hope rather than building it up, and coming through adversity helps us, not only to ignore interferance to reaching our goals, but come to understand we must surround ourselves with positive, insightful association that puts a solid foundation under out feet for protecting our joy... and self-care is the first step of this stage of recovery... you are right about first steps... One of the affirmations I use every day is: I am a competent and capable person... Compassion for self, is essential in every success we enjoy... May you be the best you can be, hugs, Jocelyn

Pat Roth replied June 28, 2009 9:23 PM 

You put that subject, bullying, so tastefully. (Oops, there is a reference to food again!) To know ones self and to not being dependent on others for their value of yourself as a human being! A lesson that I have been MANY years in obtaining! May others take note and get there before I did, at 77 years old! My mom lived till she was 98 yrs, died 2 years ago, and that has been a large part of my growing up too--as an only child---much emotional baggage too--with my dad etc.--Pat Roth

Diabetic Connect Member dj7110
dj7110
dj7110 replied June 12, 2009 3:48 PM 

just want to add that about the best snack food to eat when trying to loose weight is celery. It produces a negative calorie amount. Takes more calories in eating it than you get from it. So great snack food to eat when you have high hunger cravings. David

blondie0824 replied June 12, 2009 6:28 PM 

That's a great tip, thanks! Sadly, I'll have to wait until the braces come off (yes, I'm almost 30 and strapped into braces) until I can eat celery. The ortho said it's a no-no unless it's cooked. But soon enough!

Pat Roth replied June 28, 2009 9:26 PM 

I agree---that celery seems to fit my evening craving of wanting , no, NEEDING to chew on SOMETHING! I put a dab of Peanut butter in it too, and it seemed to satisfy that CRAVING at bedtime! Pat Roth

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied June 12, 2009 6:33 PM 

Last edited 4 months ago

Thank you all for your words of inspiration. Tomorrow is my first weigh-in at Weight Watchers and I'm feeling optimistic. Since starting WW, I've dropped my daily insulin usage from about 28 units to 20! I've been sticking to my points, working out like a feind and staying true to eatin 90% whole foods. I can't tell you how many strawberries, grapes, blueberries and pea pods I've eaten this week! But I think that this plan might really work for me. I've also been trying to eat the lower carb fruits and staying away from starchy veggies. I get one whole wheat min bagel with breakfast and that's my "bread treat" for the day. It's been a challenge, but a necessary one. I think maybe my biggest hurdle was cutting out the fat! Ultimately, thus far I've been happy with the plan. I'm not hungry, I'm still in control of what I eat and I have something to hold myself accountable to. Good stuff!

Following points has also helped to quell the obsession with eating. Every time I start to feel that "need" to binge, I simply talk myself through it and remind myself that if I binge and this diet doesn't work, I will have no one to blame but myself. I'm going to try some of the ball ideas. I've done squats using the ball against the wall and that is great for both core and legs. I'll have to look into the smaller balls with the instructions. Thanks again everyone, and keep the good stuff coming!

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied June 14, 2009 4:09 PM 

So, I'm cautiously optimistic that WW was the key to beginning my weight loss. I'm down 3.2lbs. after my first week! Woohoo! :o)

Judimar replied June 14, 2009 5:17 PM 

YAY that's awesome!

Jocelyn replied June 14, 2009 6:58 PM 

In the right direction is good, and encouraging... yeah! hugs

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied June 14, 2009 11:23 PM 

Thanks for your support! I can't wait until my weigh in next week. I'm just praying that I continue to go in the right direction :o)

Jocelyn replied June 14, 2009 11:30 PM 

let us know how it goes... and hope it is ... away... ha ha

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied June 22, 2009 12:23 AM 

Hello, me again. OK so I'm into my third week on WW. The first week I lost 3.2lbs. and last week I only lost 0.2lbs. So I remain cautiously optimistic that this will be the tool that will finally help me lose some weight. I'm eating 95% from the filling foods list. Mainly only whole foods with a little fish and chicken. I've really kicked the workouts into high gear - at least an hour 5-6 days a week with 1/2 an hour doing my Jillian Michael's DVD and another 1/2 hour to 45 minutes doing cardio on the treadmill or bike. I'm hoping that even if the pounds don't drop that the inches will. Again, thanks for your support and I'm open to any new ideas for sticking to a healthy diet while going low carb. :o)

dj7110 replied June 23, 2009 7:40 AM 

good news it's going in the right direction. unfortuanatly it always takes twice as long at least to loose than put on. Ive shed 75 lbs myself so far since i was diagnosed yrs ago. have gained once in awhile but generally kept taking off. even got a complement on my weight loss today from someone i haven't seen in a couple yrs. so guess it shows. I did loose a bit though last week, but was sick and not the way i wanted to loose.. keep up the good work. congrats

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied June 26, 2009 7:32 PM 

Thanks dj and congrats on your weight loss - that's amazing! I'm anxious to weigh in tomorrow. I'm driving to PA to see a friend, but I found a WW center very close to her house so I'm going to stop and get myself weighed. I made a promise to myself to stay on track and I'm going to make sure I do just that. I'll give you and update soon!

Pat Roth replied June 28, 2009 9:28 PM 

My Dear, with your DETERMINATION, I have no doubt that you will succeed in your weight loss. If I tried just HALF of your own efforts, no one would recognize me!hugs, Pat roth

Diabetic Connect Member BeckyJ
BeckyJ
BeckyJ replied June 29, 2009 1:57 AM 

Just saw this discussion and thought I'd drop a line. I've have been a compulsive eater and emotional eater my whole life. It took a serious upper GI infection and diagnosis of GERD and IBS to convince me I needed to change how I ate. My journey started 2 years ago. I am 5'5" and was weighing in at an amazing 243lbs, ugh! I started out slowly with the plate diet, eating of a 6" plate and allowing myself enough time to really digest my food. I found that a lot of times I was eating when I wasn't really hungry. I was also very frustrated because I was unable to exercise. I have hip displasia and back/neck problems so exercise has to be light and low-impact. I started Tai-Chi and at first was a little embarassed because I had to take the course for the elderly. I was the only one under 50 there!I found a support group through church that helps me with the emotional reasons for why I overeat and see a counselor for my other emotional/psychological struggles. Fast forward to today, I am still a little overweight at 173 but by God I can sure move better. I am on a fairly restrictive diet because of my stomach but not really carb/calorie controlled. I just stay away from fatty foods that iritate and also have to stay away from whole grains and pasta. I get lots of fruits, vegetable and I LIVE on chicken and turkey, with the occasional fish. I'm not big on seafood so that helps. Also I watch my sodium very closely. My Mom is in end stage liver failure so it's a strict 2000mg sodium diet in our house. Since I started watching the salt and have kept myself hydrated alot of my weight just poured off, was mostly water weight. I also changed birth-control to the patch when I found that was a huge part of my weight gain. Still working on it but I'm still loosing about 1lb a week. Slow and steady. A lot of my medications cause weight gain so the fact that I am still loosing a little bit is a huge accomplishment. Please remember that the weight did not come on quickly, it will not come off quickly either. Better to do it the healthy way...I think WW is a great option for you..than to try and starve it off. Also remember that Diabetes will make it harder to loose weight as it changes your metabolism in tricky ways. Best of Luck to you...it's sounds like you're doing a great job so far. If you have any questions or need advise I am always happy to share what's worked for me.

Diabetic Connect Member christine s
christine s
christine s replied June 29, 2009 3:02 AM 

You know what I am a constant eater. I eat what I want when I want but it has taken a toll on my body. I seem to notice when my sugar is high I am exhausted and all I want to do is sleep, but when my sugar is low I am energenic. Not sure why that is. My BMI is over 30 and I am miserable. I weigh 239 a year ago I was at 175 I am 5' only and I am reading that I should be on the average of 115. I just started the low carb diet with low calories and some yoga added. I am still trying to find a good diet for me. Blondie I understand your frustration and I am sorry you are feeling this way. Trying to find a new diet that works for you then that is wonderful. Please let us all know how it is working for you. GOOD LUCK and being here you have lots of resources around you .

Diabetic Connect Member christine s
christine s
christine s replied June 29, 2009 3:02 AM 

You know what I am a constant eater. I eat what I want when I want but it has taken a toll on my body. I seem to notice when my sugar is high I am exhausted and all I want to do is sleep, but when my sugar is low I am energenic. Not sure why that is. My BMI is over 30 and I am miserable. I weigh 239 a year ago I was at 175 I am 5' only and I am reading that I should be on the average of 115. I just started the low carb diet with low calories and some yoga added. I am still trying to find a good diet for me. Blondie I understand your frustration and I am sorry you are feeling this way. Trying to find a new diet that works for you then that is wonderful. Please let us all know how it is working for you. GOOD LUCK and being here you have lots of resources around you .

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied July 2, 2009 12:01 AM 

Thanks for sharing your struggles Becky and Christine. Although I wouldn't wish weight or eating problems on anyone, it is nice to know that I'm not in this fight alone. Becky, I think it's great that you've been doing so well on your own! If I didn't already have an infusion site for my pump and another site for my glucose sensor, I would seriously consider using the patch. BUT, the thought of another thing stuck to my body makes me cringe! LOL I'm trying something a bit new with WW this week. I'm eating my daily points and my flex points. What I'm not doing is eating any of the points I've earned for my workouts. My goal is to earn 35 - 40 workout points a week and not eat them. That means I have to do a high intensity workout 60 - 70 minutes a day 5 days a week. I really love the workouts now that they've become routine, so it works out well. I'm struggling right now though b/c I'm trying to start working out right after work so that my blood sugar doesn't drop in the middle of the night. My natural inclination is to workout at 8:00 or so, so it's been difficult. Also, since I gained weight last week, I'm feeling very frustrated and demotivated. I so appreciate you sharing your stories with me, it helps me to know that there are others out there fighting this fight along with me and going through some of the same troubles. Christine, I hope that you're able to find a plan that works for you. WW says that even if you lose 10% of your weight, you should feel immensely better, so start small... Shoot for 5% :o) Please take care and let me know how you're doing as well. I'm going to weigh in Sunday this week because of the 4th, so I'll post and let you know what happens!

Take care,
Amber

Diabetic Connect Member P2putt
P2putt
P2putt replied July 5, 2009 6:03 PM 

Last edited 4 months ago

It has been awhile since I checked in on you. How is the weight issue coming? Let us know. Best to you and hang in there. We all have our struggles. Wish you the best.:o) Pete

Diabetic Connect Member Pat Roth
Pat Roth
Pat Roth replied July 5, 2009 6:41 PM 

You know, it is interesting that since I am watching my BS closer and trying to eat accordingly, I am gradually losing weight too, with no thought applied! Just doing what my system seems to require! I started eating whether I was mad, sad or glad, 35 years ago, when I found that SWEETS seemed to stroke my feelings, making me feel more loved--thus --from 135 pounds, 5 ft 6 in. to 240 pounds before I knew it, BUT IT STUCK As the eating was so soothing I could NOT force myself to quit, or cut back, felt like I was sabotaging myself, emotionally! When I couldn't depend on love and sympathy from people, I "self medicated" with food. I worked at a hospital and folks would like to shoot arrows at me, I felt, guess it was cause I was nice and would not fight back----tried to absorb the pain, DOES NOT WORK, my friends! Vent to SOMEONE< HERE on this site, I am finding, and know that you are NOT ALONE, that seems to be helping me to cut back without much thought!! TO FEEL LOVED AND ACCEPTED, no matter what, our size or our disposition, works wonders, I think! hugs to all--PR

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied July 5, 2009 11:39 PM 

Hello all,

Another frustrating weigh in today. Overall in the last 4 weeks, I've lost only a couple pounds. Now, I know that's a good thing, but still I am so frustrated! I've been counting points as though my life depends on it with little result. I've also been working out like a fiend. Sigh. The lady at WW said maybe I'm not eating enough. I'm not sure how that's possible, since I'm eating a ton and I'm full all the time, but what do I know? Sorry, I'm full of spit an vinegar today. My continuous glucose monitoring system has seen to it that I have gotten little to no sleep every night except 2 in the last 3 weeks and I'm so frustrated that I'm not sure if I want to scream or cry. Plus, the last few days the darned thing hasn't even been accurate! It woke me up 3 times last night and each time I did a finger stick and my sugar was beautiful - 111, 118, etc... While my glucose montior was reading 64, 68, etc... Seriously, I'm beginning to feel like I just threw away $180 on something that's only accurate 1/2 the time. I think I'm going to take it out and be done with it for a while. At least until I can get caught up on some sleep. I'm becoming an over emotional walking zombie! Thanks to all of you for offering your support. I'm definitely struggling not to go on an emotional eating binge, as has always been my pattern in the past. I think maybe I just need to hit the sack super early tonight and give myself a workout free pass... Hope all is well with you all. I also hope to have better news to post at my weigh in this coming Saturday. **Hugs**

Judimar replied July 6, 2009 4:34 AM 

Hey Amber!

Get some rest and cut back on the workouts maybe. Y ou could be building muscle like someone suggested earlier. I know you're frustrated but don't give up! Just try eating healthy. We're always here for you!

*hugs*

Judi

lipsie replied July 6, 2009 7:31 AM 

Well I still give you lots of credit for putting you butt out there and WORKING IT! But yes...don't overdo yourself either, and I think have HIGH expectations right off...it takes time, its not easy...FRUSTRATING..as you said in the beginning, but one thing I think you can count on is you have friends t help you thru it, that care, and we ARE routing for you. GREAT JOB!!!! *HugS* Sheila

Splender replied July 6, 2009 10:34 AM 

Hi Blondie,

As Sheila said,you have those of us who understand your problem,we will be here for you. Don't give up,just take a break and see what happens. You really need to get a good nights sleep to really be able to look at your problem and try to find out what it is that is not going right. You can always ask at the WW meeting or online counselor to find out what you can do to start loosing the way you would like to. Don't set your goal too high that it's going to be hard to reach,make a goal that will be somewhat easy to reach and then set another one just as soon as you reach to old one. As with anything you set goals for you set a short term goal with a long term goal in the background.

Sorry if I sound like I'm a know it all,but I've had these problems myself and this is the way I solved some of them. I feel if I can do that and it was fairly easy,then those who want to accomplish something can do it to.

Well Blondie, I have to go for now. Take care and write me if you need to talk to me.

YOUR FRIEND,
Helene

Pat Roth replied July 6, 2009 1:55 PM 

I am slowly losing too, but I have MORE to lose, but one or two pounds a week is good. I have lost 8 pounds in 2 months, nothing to rave about BUT, I am trying to develop better eating habits, quit this emotional eating as that is what has done me so much harm! Trying too hard can cause all sorts of cranky, deprived, resentful, feelings, that one can't lose faster, be perfect! For myself, I have found that when I get all tensed up into wanting to lose faster, the day I do relax, I can't eat enough! It is like trying to make up for all the days I tried so hard.
I was on Medifast for months, NO food, just the Protein drink, lost 50 pounds, BUT my dad was dying with cancer, I had to care for him and my aging mom, had no access to walking (I could then) started eating at the hospital snack bar, and who-la, I strted gaining it back, and then I got to the point when I gave up and gained it all back. I know, excuses, excuses, BUT when one is emotional and physically exhausted, one resorts to the old, familiar pattern of "I will eat just this bite and it will be OK, but it gradually increases, bite by bite--at least that is how it has been with me. But with your exercise routine, MAN!!!I NEVER got that involved in losing weight, so YOURS just has to gradually peel off!! You are so DETERMINED, I have no doubt that you will get those few pounds off!

And they say that muscles weigh more than fat, BUT also they BURN more calories than fat, so I would say that you are almost THERE! GOOD LUCK!! Pat Roth

Diabetic Connect Member arenk
arenk
arenk replied July 6, 2009 2:04 PM 

I don't know if anybody told you this already, but after about six months, your body homeostasis (balance) readjusts, so that the new weight becomes the normal. To begin to lose weight, you must jumpstart your metabolism again. If your body feels it is starving, it will slow down, as earlier stated.

Diabetic Connect Member BeckyJ
BeckyJ
BeckyJ replied July 6, 2009 4:59 PM 

Don't get discouraged. When I first started on this journey I was only loosing about 1/2 to 1 lb a week. My body was resatarting it's metabolism. After about 3mo I was starting to see better results. I recently went through another plateau and was getting very frustrated. I started to gain back and my Diet had not changed! I was sooooo mad. Well I continued with my program and am glad to say that over the weekend I started loosing again. Yes even with the holiday. I am back down to 143. YEAH!. Now I just have to maintain. Remember this is a constant battle without the added stress of diabetes. You really need to be in the right emotional state to succeed...and sleep is a HUGE part of it. I may suggest you take a couple days off your heavy workout. Go with a lighter workout and try and get a good nights rest. Best of luck!

Pat Roth replied July 6, 2009 6:33 PM 

Amen! In Tops we read where if you work too hard, too long, your body thinks it is starving, to alternate your exercising programs, do not do the same-o-every day, surprise your body, it seems like it comes off easier so like Becky said, rest, lighten up your routine, SURPRISE your body---"What in the world is she up to NOW??!!" ha It also helps you to relax and "let it go"! PR

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied July 6, 2009 7:09 PM 

Last edited 4 months ago

Thank you SO MUCH everyone for your support, kind words and advice. I have disconnected from my CGMS for the forseeable future. I plan to make dinner for the boyfriend and I (a rare occasion as of late), do a light workout and hit the sack early tonight. I'm in a better place today mentally, and I have to attribute that to a fantastic boyfriend who is amazing and to you here on this site who have really helped me stay inspired or find the inspiration when I am lost. I'm going to forge ahead and pray that the scale will budge at WW on Saturday. I think maybe we'll go shoot some hoops or play some tennis tonight instead of killing myself doing Jillian Michaels video and a 45 minute cardio workout. Thanks to you all and congrats to those of you who are winning this crazy weight loss battle!!! I'll keep you updated!

Amber

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied July 12, 2009 1:07 AM 

Hello everyone,

I finally seem to be moving in the right direction - I'm down 1.4lbs. this week! I've been working out 5 days a week and eating my 20 points per day plus my 35 weekly points. I think maybe I wasn't eating enough and my body was in starvation mode before. I'm surprised but because I really only eat whole foods, I find myself being full even when it's time for my next meal, which is a pleasant surprise. I thought I'd be hungry all the time. I've got 8.8lbs. to go and I know that now is when it's going to get really difficult. The last few pounds always are. But, I'm going to try to stay focused, hopeful and positive, even if it doesn't come off as quickly as I'd like or it plateau's along the way.

A big THANK YOU to all of you who have been supporting me along this long, arduous journey. Please let me know how you're doing :o) I'm going to keep posting here each week with an update to keep myself accountable and stay in touch with you all...

Take care!
Amber

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied July 12, 2009 1:07 AM 

Hello everyone,

I finally seem to be moving in the right direction - I'm down 1.4lbs. this week! I've been working out 5 days a week and eating my 20 points per day plus my 35 weekly points. I think maybe I wasn't eating enough and my body was in starvation mode before. I'm surprised but because I really only eat whole foods, I find myself being full even when it's time for my next meal, which is a pleasant surprise. I thought I'd be hungry all the time. I've got 8.8lbs. to go and I know that now is when it's going to get really difficult. The last few pounds always are. But, I'm going to try to stay focused, hopeful and positive, even if it doesn't come off as quickly as I'd like or it plateau's along the way.

A big THANK YOU to all of you who have been supporting me along this long, arduous journey. Please let me know how you're doing :o) I'm going to keep posting here each week with an update to keep myself accountable and stay in touch with you all...

Take care!
Amber

Pat Roth replied July 12, 2009 1:21 AM 

Oh, you bet!! losing weight, let alone the added chore of the diabetis, leaves us all whimpering like babies, at times--well, at least me, if I get overly tired of trying!! I try to act like I don't really care--OK, be that way! (my body) then try to sneak up on it indirectly by actually enjoying myself with a different diet plan (LOOSE THE WORD DIET, too) eating sensibly! And enjoying exercising with FRIENDS< SUre helped me anyway! Lots of sweet feeliings!!! PR

Diabetic Connect Member Vicrgreen
Vicrgreen
Vicrgreen replied July 18, 2009 5:41 AM 

You have weighted but have you measured? Your regime should have added muscle and muscle is heavier than fat.

My doctor sent me to a "Lifestyle" place (The Black Hills Health and Education Center) and they wouldn't let any of us near a scale for 3 weeks. When we did weigh we were also measured. I'd lost a lot of inches, all over, in my arms and legs as well as hips, waist, etc. I had lost very few pounds. And the reason was as I stated above. I had exchanged fat for muscle.

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied July 19, 2009 5:08 PM 

Yes, I'm both doing weight and measurements. Neither one has changed much and I've become extremely frustrated. Overall in 6 weeks, I'm down 2.5lbs now (I went up 2 pounds this past week) and I haven't lost anything in my measurements, so I'm beginning to feel like all of this time and effort is a complete waste of my time. I'm very excited that you had lost inches, that's wonderful! I hope you're able to get to whatever your goal may be. I'm not sure how I'm going to proceed. I know I need to keep going, but it is so frustrating to see my boyfriend's mom and sister losing a ton of weight and inches and they're not nearly as diligent with it and they don't work out half as hard as I do. I'm just so sick of having to try twice as hard to get even 1/4 the results that the average person does. Sorry, I'm in a bad way today... Tomorrow will be better I hope. Thanks to you all for your kind words and support. You really keep me going. :o)

Pat Roth replied July 19, 2009 6:34 PM 

Oh, Bless your heart, how discouraging for you as you are doing ALL of the things recommended in our Tops group, BUT you are so much more diligent, I don't understand it either!

But don't give up! In Tops we reach what we call plateaus, so maybe that is where you are right now! One day more weight may just fall off, and you will be so pleasantly shocked! How, Why?? Who knows, our bodies are so tricky and independent!! Best of LUCK and hang in there!! PR

blondie0824 replied July 20, 2009 3:49 PM 

Thanks for the words of encouragement Pat, I really appreciated it. I'm still hammering away at it. I'm going to keep up the workouts and stay on Points for at least another month. I'm just praying to lose some of this weight! Take care :o)
Amber

Diabetic Connect Member Angelique
Angelique
Angelique replied July 31, 2009 10:21 AM 

Last edited 3 months ago

Try to "kick start" your metabolism when you plateau in your weight loss. Only eat greens & protein for 3 days straight as much as you can but having diabetes does restrict this part. This means NO sauce, NO salt, NO dressing, NO dairy, NO juice, etc. JUST anything green & cooked protein. Drink hot lemon water before you eat at least twice & of course DRINK YOUR WATER. This is NOT for a continuous diet, This is JUST to jump your metabolism WHEN your are dieting & loosing weight. Some people who have a lot to loose have to do this 6-7 times after every 10-25 lbs. they loose to get it started again. Four of us in my family lost 200 lbs. all together in 3 months using this Kick Start method.

Pat Roth replied July 31, 2009 1:25 PM 

wow!! I gained back 2 # last week, so better jump start"!! Thanks!PR

blondie0824 replied August 4, 2009 12:36 AM 

Thanks again for the advice... Over the last week and a half I have fallen off the wagon... HARD... My eating problems have snuck back up on me and I have completely neglected both my diet for diabetes and for weight loss. I am now struggling to find my way back to my workouts and eating right. It's a terribly vicious cycle and I'm anxious to break it again and start feeling good about myself. Sigh. Does anyone know of any good books for compulsive/obsessive eating problems? Maybe I'll post a new topic asking that question. I need to do something to fix this issue instead of just trying to get past it every time it rears its ugly head. Thanks to those of you here who have been so supportive. I love the suggestions and input and it's nice to have new ideas to work with!!!

Take care,
Amber

Pat Roth replied August 4, 2009 3:31 AM 

If you can make a modest schedule in diet and exercise, it might help you to avoid the extremes of that pendulum swinging----I am finally forming a better pattern--habit--then when it's tricky, ugly head syndrome, rears up, it become easier for the sensible eating to becomes a good habit, every time that you can get over that hump, the next time it is easier to stick to your plan! Good Luck!! PR

blondie0824 replied August 5, 2009 12:54 AM 

Thanks Pat :o) I'm definitely struggling to find that happy medium. One thing that I'm doing is trying to get to bed at the same time each night so I can get some decent sleep. I think that helps my mood a TON, which in turn, I'm hoping will help me with the urges to eat. I've also ordered a couple of books which I'm hoping will have some helpful tips. It's nice to know I'm not alone, though I wouldn't wish diabetes or food issues on anyone else... Thanks again for your support!

Pat Roth replied August 5, 2009 1:03 AM 

You are so Welcome, Blondie!! I have been ridiculed so much in the past I had about given up on finding ANYHONE who would listen and understand!!! We will lick this weight thing together--sooner or later!!! It sure is NOT EASY! I have been struggling for over 40 years to lose, and am finally getting started, but only because, I think , of others caring and helping me to feel that I , too, am not alone!! Best wishes and hope you can sleep tonight too!!! It really does help---when you can get relaxed enough to let it happen!!! PR

Diabetic Connect Member luis buentello
luis buentello
luis buentello replied August 5, 2009 1:40 AM 

Hi my name is luis and i think you should read articles on vitamin d ,i think you bwould find it useful theres been a lot of talk about it helping to lose wieght and help with arthritis and muscles pains .go to wikipedia and look for vitamin d your friend luis

Diabetic Connect Member blondie0824
blondie0824
blondie0824 replied August 9, 2009 11:55 PM 

Thanks again :o) I'm starting to get better sleep, so I'm hoping that will help. After 2 weeks off the wagon, I'm finally clawing my way back on and keeping my fingers crossed!

Pat Roth replied August 10, 2009 1:25 AM 

Amen!! You CAN do it!! I think that the time off, relaxing and resting will help you immensley!! Good Luck and God Bless YOU!! PR

keek replied August 12, 2009 1:34 PM 

You may have already tried all of these ideas, but I just got this in my inbox today and thought I would pass it along.

http://mail.google.com/mail/?zx=153q4sykgpabx&shva=1#inbox/1230e8769311e6e1

Diabetic Connect Member SisterLyn
SisterLyn
SisterLyn replied August 13, 2009 10:49 AM 

Listen, stress is a major factor is diabetes. It can raise your sugar levels as well as your weight! I don't care what anyone says. If you keep stressing yourself over the 10 lbs I don't think it will ever come off..

Advice...you need to go easy on yourself. You are only 29 years old. The more you stress the shorter of a life you will lead.

i'd be willing to bet...m'dear..that if you just forget about loosing that extra 10 - 20 lbs and just go about your life in the normal way you usually do, one day you will wake up and notice that ..'hey, you've lost some weight.." do more walking too...that helps also'...but ...stop giving yourself so much stress ..the levels of stress you put on your body simply wont allow the natural rhythms to happenin loosing the weight..

So, please...please...stop worrying and BE HAPPY..!!

BE HAPPY...I think that's the key...less stress..more happiness...cut out the butter and margarine...drink more water..use olive oil instead...and stop worrying.. BE HAPPY.

Have you ever met.. BEA HAPPY? She's very nice you know? :) xoxo

Love, Lynda

blondie0824 replied August 14, 2009 1:01 AM 

Thanks Lynda, I'm working on doing just that. It's just too hard to beat up on myself and stress out about every single calorie that goes in my mouth all the time. It's exhausting!!! Thanks for your thoughts and support :o)

Diabetic Connect Member Pat Roth
Pat Roth
Pat Roth replied August 14, 2009 3:34 AM 

You know, blondie!! I had always wondered IF I could attack this weight problem of MINE with the same gusto that you have, just count every single little bite, get MEAN about it, I f I would be better off, but, sadly, it sounds like if one tries TOO HARD, it only makes matter worse. I agree with Lynda, relax and have fun, and let it slide offf unexpectedly! Best Wishes! PR