When I began my weight loss journey and started to track my food, I was totally shocked at the amount of calories I was eating. The first day I entered over 3000 calories. I could not believe it. Honestly I thought I was being pretty careful and eating reasonably healthy. I wasn’t eating much fast food or fatty snacks. But the fact is, I was eating too much, period. Excess food, plus my lack of exercise were probably the reasons I gained so much in the first place.
Over the years, I fell into the “diet food” trap with some regularity. When I would get motivated to lose weight I’d try some “plan” or other. First it was Metafast (which made me flush and constantly sick to my stomach); then I was on to Nutrisystem (again, major stomach issues and facial flushing). I went to DietCenter, but couldn’t stick with it and hated the “group” approach. I’d sometimes stock my freezer with lean cuisines and weight watchers frozen meals, and anything else I thought might be healthy. Can’t imagine how much money I’ve spent, gaining and losing the same 50 pounds!
What I found in all these attempts was food that did not satisfy me or fill me up. Which, of course, led to snacking and weight gain. It was a vicious cycle. Because of my mobility limitations and girth, I’ve avoided going anywhere I might be embarrassed or uncomfortable. I’ve had to cancel trips to visit family because of my flagging health, pain level, and lack of mobility. I’ve skipped important events for those same reasons. And I’ve shed countless tears, felt sad and frustrated … but I didn’t change. It wasn’t until I had a real awakening about my health and the quality of my life, that I knew a very real life change was in order.
So why did my “sit down” with my doctor wake me up? She simply said, “Sandy, I’m really concerned about how much weight you’ve gained since I first started seeing you. Let’s talk about some options.” She suggested I consider a lap-band – I said no (surgery avoidance disorder). We talked about the Annschutz Weight Loss Center (I called – WAYYYY too expensive). She gave me literature on other diet measures in the Denver area, and I went home … and for whatever reason, I had an “ah-ha” moment. I pulled out the diet from Dr. Palmer that was highly successful for me before. Karen gave me a FitBit. I started eating a balanced diet of healthy foods and cooking fresh foods while renewing my understanding of healthy eating.
My realization? When you fill your body with nutritious wholesome food you feel better (and hopefully look better). Also, I know I have mentioned this a few times already, but I am going to say it again, tracking my food is SO helpful. Even though I may be eating healthier foods, I could still be eating too much. Too much food –healthy or not – means weight gain! Having the structure of menus, and tracking what goes in, helps get portions under control and creates better eating habits. Some day I’m NOT going to be on a diet, so lifelong habits are important.
I was on a website today that suggested even if you are on a specified diet or plan, do a “food overhaul.” That’s taking a real look at the food you are eating on a daily basis, how is it processed, where is it from, what additives, etc. They suggest that the quality of the food you eat matters – the closer to “natural” the better. Minimally processed foods apparently help you feel satisfied longer. Sounds good to me!
Check-ins:
- I’ve averaged well over 2500 steps the past four days, so my new goal is 2750.
- Today’s Mantra: Portions and Calories Matter
- Feeling good at the pool. Tomorrow is my day off.
- Still not sleeping as well as I’d like.