...Oops. I messed up. I ate badly Friday, Saturday and Sunday and have gained. The result? I'm back up to 80kgs. So, the 800gms I've so painstakingly lost over the last 2 weeks have been plopped back on again.
Ok, enough. I have been beating myself up about this all day. And, despite the fact I've given myself a real working over, it hasn't burnt any calories! I need to just learn what I can from this and move on.
So, why have I gained?
- Building muscle? Maybe a little.
- Water retention? Well, I did eat a lot of carbs and sodium - perhaps there is some water weight in there. Ok.
- (TMI) Backed up a bit? Yep. Got that going on.
- Eating too much food and, especially, too much high calorie junk? Check. There's your man.
It probably is a combination of factors. And eating too much junk has contributed to the water retention and being back up. Yuk. I really do feel sluggish and horrid. But, at the same time all I want is to go and eat MORE of that rubbish. Why?!? Especially when I know that eating that stuff is the direct cause of me feeling so bad?
Perhaps it's the nature of food addiction. Or perhaps it's because I have fallen into that negative cycle of feeling bad and bingeing and feeling bad and bingeing. I need to break it.
I decided this morning that I need to get re-focused. So, I was going to do at least 3 days to a week of the Intensive plan (3 meal replacements + 1tsp oil + 2-4 cups of veggies). I think I will allow myself an extra serve of protein too since we are back to the gym this week (cringe).
I need to call on all my inner strength here and get this going again. I can't let this be the beginning of the end. This is just going to be a blip on the radar. This is going to be a positive thing, a re-ignition of sorts. I am determined.
Showing posts with label Weigh Ins. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Weigh Ins. Show all posts
Monday, May 12, 2014
Monday, May 5, 2014
Week 26
The weeks seem to be flying by lately. End of Week 26 brings a loss of 500g. I am sitting at 79.2kgs today.
It's weird to say, but I sort of feel like I don't really care. This morning I just looked at the number on the scales and thought, "Is it less? Yes? Good." And that was it.
I started three 30 day challenges on May 1st. I bought the 30 Day Fitness Challenges App, which was a slight gamble as there was no free trial option. But, luckily, I'm pretty happy with it. I like that it has a whole bunch of challenges I can try, and links to how to do the exercises.
The challenges are great because they motivate me to do some strength training, which hasn't always been my focus, even though I do enjoy it. The cool thing is that (at least so far) I can get it all done in 5 minutes or so before my morning shower. And I still feel good-sore later, which convinces me that it's working.
Anyway, the point is that this is new(ish) for me, since I've never been too regular about doing my Pump classes. So, I'm expecting some reduced losses for a while due to some muscle building and water retention. That's fine. I am already seeing some changes in the mirror - some streamlining and such. So, if the scales wanna argue, they can go right ahead, I'm not listening.
In other news, the boyfriend and I ran 6km for the first time on Saturday. It was a horrible run - I had a stitch/cramp in my stomach and side the whole time. I had to really dig deep to push through and finish. In terms of leg and chest fitness (breathing/heart rate), things felt good - I felt like I could get into a nice rhythym. The stitch was probably just caused by drinking too much water beforehand. I am proud of myself for getting it done despite the pain though!
We are still working on running a faster 5km. So, our current program is a 5km run on Mondays, a speed/interval run on Wednesdays and an easy "long" run on Saturdays for endurance. I say "long" because we are just working our way up from 5km to something longer. I think the plan for next Saturday is to run for 50mins (whatever distance that ends up being - maybe 6.5km or so) because with a 5min warm up/down either side, that makes it a nice round 1 hour workout.
The program seems to be working. We generally run a PB most runs, unless it's really windy or one of us feels a bit off. Our fastest time (from this morning) is 34:38, which is 7 seconds faster than last weekend! Ideally we'd like to get it down to 30 or below.
Eating-wise, I'm mostly back on track, and keeping to 1200 calories a day. I had one day last week where I went over, but I'm ok with that. Just gotta keep going. Keep moving forward. Keep taking steps in the right direction. Even if they're baby steps!
It's weird to say, but I sort of feel like I don't really care. This morning I just looked at the number on the scales and thought, "Is it less? Yes? Good." And that was it.
I started three 30 day challenges on May 1st. I bought the 30 Day Fitness Challenges App, which was a slight gamble as there was no free trial option. But, luckily, I'm pretty happy with it. I like that it has a whole bunch of challenges I can try, and links to how to do the exercises.The challenges are great because they motivate me to do some strength training, which hasn't always been my focus, even though I do enjoy it. The cool thing is that (at least so far) I can get it all done in 5 minutes or so before my morning shower. And I still feel good-sore later, which convinces me that it's working.
Anyway, the point is that this is new(ish) for me, since I've never been too regular about doing my Pump classes. So, I'm expecting some reduced losses for a while due to some muscle building and water retention. That's fine. I am already seeing some changes in the mirror - some streamlining and such. So, if the scales wanna argue, they can go right ahead, I'm not listening.
In other news, the boyfriend and I ran 6km for the first time on Saturday. It was a horrible run - I had a stitch/cramp in my stomach and side the whole time. I had to really dig deep to push through and finish. In terms of leg and chest fitness (breathing/heart rate), things felt good - I felt like I could get into a nice rhythym. The stitch was probably just caused by drinking too much water beforehand. I am proud of myself for getting it done despite the pain though!
We are still working on running a faster 5km. So, our current program is a 5km run on Mondays, a speed/interval run on Wednesdays and an easy "long" run on Saturdays for endurance. I say "long" because we are just working our way up from 5km to something longer. I think the plan for next Saturday is to run for 50mins (whatever distance that ends up being - maybe 6.5km or so) because with a 5min warm up/down either side, that makes it a nice round 1 hour workout.
The program seems to be working. We generally run a PB most runs, unless it's really windy or one of us feels a bit off. Our fastest time (from this morning) is 34:38, which is 7 seconds faster than last weekend! Ideally we'd like to get it down to 30 or below.
Eating-wise, I'm mostly back on track, and keeping to 1200 calories a day. I had one day last week where I went over, but I'm ok with that. Just gotta keep going. Keep moving forward. Keep taking steps in the right direction. Even if they're baby steps!
Friday, May 2, 2014
Week 25
I'm a little late in posting my Week 25 weigh in. I lost 300gms, which brought me nicely into the 70s! Yay! Less than 10kgs to go to my goal weight.
I've been having a bit of a rough trot of late. Bingeing a bit. Or feeling that bingeing feeling. My binges are, frankly, unrecognisable from my binges of 6 months ago. Nothing like the 12 doughnuts and half a tub of ice cream I used to chow through in a sitting. But, I know that urge all too well. I'm not hungry or anything, I'm just desperate to put something in my face. And lots of it!
Anyway, so I've been battling that. And, for the most part, I guess, winning. Last week I notched up a couple of days of 1700 calories, and I didn't do much exercise (just the two runs for the week). But, 1700 calories is probably (for my height/size) a maintenance or very slow loss level of intake.
It's not really the calories I'm worried about, though. It's the habits I might be forming. So, I've been trying really hard to kick this stuff outta here. I've strung together a few really good days of exercise and good eating.
I'd realised one of the things I had started slacking on was the veggies. Making sure I have lots of veg in my main meals is really helpful for keeping me full. They're not the best snacks for me, as I (perhaps only psychologically) feel like they can make me hungrier. But, beefing up my meals with them is a good tactic for me.
I'm starting to see that checking in with yourself regularly and re-assessing your daily habits is a very important part of long-term weight loss and maintenance. Things slip sometimes without you even realising!
I've also got on board a few of these 30 day fitness challenges for May. I downloaded an app that had a few of them on it, so I'm doing three: squats, planking, and arms. The arms is split into pushups, tricep dips and mountain climbers. All three challenges are currently taking me less than 5 mins to do in the morning, but this may increase as I build up the reps and suffer a bit more fatigue.
Before I started yesterday, I got the boyfriend to take a couple of "before" photos of me in my knickers, so I can compare in 30 days if I've got any more definition or toning going on. Will be interesting to see!
So far, I'm pleased to say that I have completed both Day 1 and 2 of my challenges! Yay!
Going to go catch up on all my blog reading now - I haven't visited most of you in ages and need to see how you're all going! Thanks for reading.
I've been having a bit of a rough trot of late. Bingeing a bit. Or feeling that bingeing feeling. My binges are, frankly, unrecognisable from my binges of 6 months ago. Nothing like the 12 doughnuts and half a tub of ice cream I used to chow through in a sitting. But, I know that urge all too well. I'm not hungry or anything, I'm just desperate to put something in my face. And lots of it!
Anyway, so I've been battling that. And, for the most part, I guess, winning. Last week I notched up a couple of days of 1700 calories, and I didn't do much exercise (just the two runs for the week). But, 1700 calories is probably (for my height/size) a maintenance or very slow loss level of intake.
It's not really the calories I'm worried about, though. It's the habits I might be forming. So, I've been trying really hard to kick this stuff outta here. I've strung together a few really good days of exercise and good eating.
I'd realised one of the things I had started slacking on was the veggies. Making sure I have lots of veg in my main meals is really helpful for keeping me full. They're not the best snacks for me, as I (perhaps only psychologically) feel like they can make me hungrier. But, beefing up my meals with them is a good tactic for me.
I'm starting to see that checking in with yourself regularly and re-assessing your daily habits is a very important part of long-term weight loss and maintenance. Things slip sometimes without you even realising!
I've also got on board a few of these 30 day fitness challenges for May. I downloaded an app that had a few of them on it, so I'm doing three: squats, planking, and arms. The arms is split into pushups, tricep dips and mountain climbers. All three challenges are currently taking me less than 5 mins to do in the morning, but this may increase as I build up the reps and suffer a bit more fatigue.
Before I started yesterday, I got the boyfriend to take a couple of "before" photos of me in my knickers, so I can compare in 30 days if I've got any more definition or toning going on. Will be interesting to see!
So far, I'm pleased to say that I have completed both Day 1 and 2 of my challenges! Yay!
Going to go catch up on all my blog reading now - I haven't visited most of you in ages and need to see how you're all going! Thanks for reading.
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Week 24
It's coming up to nearly 6 months on this diet. And, I hit a milestone this week. After zero loss last week, my body decided to play catch up with a little whoosh. I lost 1.8kgs bringing my grand total loss to... 40kgs!
That means I'm 80% of the way to my goal!
I have been trying to take stock lately - making mental notes of all the things I can do now with much more ease. Working about the house (even just cooking and cleaning) is so much easier now without all that extra weight dragging me down. I used to get such sore a sore back and hips if I spent a couple of hours or more baking. Now, I don't. I'm so much fitter, and I think it is mainly to do with the weight loss. Sure, I have built a teeny tiny bit of muscle and endurance with exercise, but I know the main different is the weight.
I made a decision part of the way through the week - to move to Maintenance (Only 1 meal replacement per day, 1200 calories). Optifast Australia isn't too clear on when exactly you should move to Maintenance. I remember reading that you should lose your last few kilos on Maintenance, but I think this was just someone's opinion on the forums. I can't find anything in any of their literature or on their website that sets a clear timeline.
So, I have just decided to do what is best for me. I feel that I need 1200 calories. I am hitting 1200 most days that I exercise and feeling just awful about it because I've been exceeding my target by 200 calories almost all the time. But, I'm hungry. And, for the most part, it is healthy food I'm having (and needing!).
As I've said before on this blog - exercise is working for me. It's making me feel really good and giving me goals outside of this diet to think about. So, I'm just gonna eat 1200 calories a day of healthy foods and keep up the exercise and be happy. Done.
It's actually been harder than I thought to plan out 1200 calories in a day. But, when you're not eating junk, you can really fit a lot more "food" in.
I expect my weight loss to be slower. And that's a price I'm willing to pay. I've been beating myself up for weeks now by trying to merge Optifast Transition (1000 calories) with vigorous exercise, and it's just not working for me. So, I'm moving the goal posts a little.
10kgs to go. And only a dress size or two left. If this takes the rest of the year, I don't care. I just need to be happy right now.
WIL: 1.8kgs, 40kgs total!!
WIG: Perspective. I don't have to be perfect all the time. I just need to be happy and healthy.
That means I'm 80% of the way to my goal!
I have been trying to take stock lately - making mental notes of all the things I can do now with much more ease. Working about the house (even just cooking and cleaning) is so much easier now without all that extra weight dragging me down. I used to get such sore a sore back and hips if I spent a couple of hours or more baking. Now, I don't. I'm so much fitter, and I think it is mainly to do with the weight loss. Sure, I have built a teeny tiny bit of muscle and endurance with exercise, but I know the main different is the weight.
I made a decision part of the way through the week - to move to Maintenance (Only 1 meal replacement per day, 1200 calories). Optifast Australia isn't too clear on when exactly you should move to Maintenance. I remember reading that you should lose your last few kilos on Maintenance, but I think this was just someone's opinion on the forums. I can't find anything in any of their literature or on their website that sets a clear timeline.
So, I have just decided to do what is best for me. I feel that I need 1200 calories. I am hitting 1200 most days that I exercise and feeling just awful about it because I've been exceeding my target by 200 calories almost all the time. But, I'm hungry. And, for the most part, it is healthy food I'm having (and needing!).
As I've said before on this blog - exercise is working for me. It's making me feel really good and giving me goals outside of this diet to think about. So, I'm just gonna eat 1200 calories a day of healthy foods and keep up the exercise and be happy. Done.
It's actually been harder than I thought to plan out 1200 calories in a day. But, when you're not eating junk, you can really fit a lot more "food" in.
I expect my weight loss to be slower. And that's a price I'm willing to pay. I've been beating myself up for weeks now by trying to merge Optifast Transition (1000 calories) with vigorous exercise, and it's just not working for me. So, I'm moving the goal posts a little.
10kgs to go. And only a dress size or two left. If this takes the rest of the year, I don't care. I just need to be happy right now.
WIL: 1.8kgs, 40kgs total!!
WIG: Perspective. I don't have to be perfect all the time. I just need to be happy and healthy.
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Week 23
Hi there. I'm just checking in.
I'm having a rough trot at the moment. My exercise is all over the place. So is my eating.
I didn't lose or gain this week. Still 81.8. Lucky. I binged a lot this past week, and I didn't drink enough water most days.
I don't feel much like writing at the moment. Just trying to get myself back together again.
I'm still determined. I'm still going to do this. It's just not easy right now.
Hopefully I'll be back with a cheerier post soon!
I'm having a rough trot at the moment. My exercise is all over the place. So is my eating.
I didn't lose or gain this week. Still 81.8. Lucky. I binged a lot this past week, and I didn't drink enough water most days.
I don't feel much like writing at the moment. Just trying to get myself back together again.
I'm still determined. I'm still going to do this. It's just not easy right now.
Hopefully I'll be back with a cheerier post soon!
Monday, April 7, 2014
Week 22
So, Week 22 comes to a close with a surprisingly nice result - a 1.9kg loss! I haven't seen a weekly loss like that in a while. Last time I lost that big was Week 18. But, I'm not complaining. I know it's just a matter of swings and roundabouts.
I can't believe how close I'm getting to being in the 70s. My goal weight is 70 kgs - so getting to 79 will be so strange. The boyfriend weighs around 79-80kgs too - so it will a rather big deal to weigh less than him. Some big milestones to look forward to!
Last Saturday we finished our C25K program. We did the timed version, so we were training to run 30mins. I guess the idea is that a lot of people would be running 5K in 30mins. We ran 4.2K. That's ok. When I started I just wanted to be able to do half an hour of running, and now I can!
We are still kind of unsure about how to continue training. Keep running 30mins and try to run faster. Or just run for longer and get to 5K... then beyond.
Either way, this morning's struggle to get out of bed highlighted to me how important it is for me to have a training program to stick to. Before I finished the C25K program, one of the things that used to get me out of bed was the knowledge that missing a day could set my whole schedule back. Now, I only had the thought of getting my exercise in for the day, and keeping my habit going. I'm scared that it won't be enough motivation going forward.
So, I need to find another program. Maybe just an interim one to get to 5K. Or, maybe to start on the C210K app. It could also be something that the boyfriend and I draw up ourselves, e.g. Run 4.5K this week, 5K next week, 5.5K the next etc.
Maybe we need to bite the bullet and sign up for a race. That would really light a fire under me.
I should also mention that in terms of the food front, and following Optifast properly - I am not quite there. Last week I ate an average of 1200 calories a day. I also exercised A LOT. It was tough, but I really wanted to push myself to see if I could do it. On top of running 3 times, I did 3 Spin classes and 2 BodyPump classes at the gym.
It hurt, and I was tired, but it made me feel so good. I'm slowly starting to see tiny bits of definition showing up on my body. Eating a bit of extra food made me feel confident that I had enough energy to complete the gym classes.
I feel like a bit of a traitor, to be honest. A traitor to Optifast. And a bit of an imposter. I'm still netting the 1000 calories I'm supposed to be on. But, I'm eating more. I'm eating the Optifast products, but only roughly following their nutritional and calorie intake ideas. And so, I just don't feel genuine.
But then, maybe this is all part of it. I'm learning how to lose without Optifast. Perhaps a bit of an early Maintenance/Stabilsation phase. I'm learning how to eat. How to be active. How to be healthy. Isn't that why I did this? Isn't that what Optifast was designed for?
Maybe if I just called it "Maintenance" (which is 1200 calories), I could be done with the whole debate!
At any rate - it's working. What I'm doing is working. I'm going to keep doing it. Eating when my body needs it, but making sure that when I do I'm making good choices. Just because I go to the gym doesn't mean I get an extra 200 calories of chips or chocolate. I need vegetables, protein, dairy. And a few complex carbs.
WIL: 1.9kgs!
WIG: The realisation that I can achieve awesome things if I commit to it. 10 weeks ago, I couldn't run for longer than a minute at a time. And now I can run for 30mins straight, baby!!
I can't believe how close I'm getting to being in the 70s. My goal weight is 70 kgs - so getting to 79 will be so strange. The boyfriend weighs around 79-80kgs too - so it will a rather big deal to weigh less than him. Some big milestones to look forward to!
Last Saturday we finished our C25K program. We did the timed version, so we were training to run 30mins. I guess the idea is that a lot of people would be running 5K in 30mins. We ran 4.2K. That's ok. When I started I just wanted to be able to do half an hour of running, and now I can!
We are still kind of unsure about how to continue training. Keep running 30mins and try to run faster. Or just run for longer and get to 5K... then beyond.
Either way, this morning's struggle to get out of bed highlighted to me how important it is for me to have a training program to stick to. Before I finished the C25K program, one of the things that used to get me out of bed was the knowledge that missing a day could set my whole schedule back. Now, I only had the thought of getting my exercise in for the day, and keeping my habit going. I'm scared that it won't be enough motivation going forward.
So, I need to find another program. Maybe just an interim one to get to 5K. Or, maybe to start on the C210K app. It could also be something that the boyfriend and I draw up ourselves, e.g. Run 4.5K this week, 5K next week, 5.5K the next etc.
Maybe we need to bite the bullet and sign up for a race. That would really light a fire under me.
I should also mention that in terms of the food front, and following Optifast properly - I am not quite there. Last week I ate an average of 1200 calories a day. I also exercised A LOT. It was tough, but I really wanted to push myself to see if I could do it. On top of running 3 times, I did 3 Spin classes and 2 BodyPump classes at the gym.
It hurt, and I was tired, but it made me feel so good. I'm slowly starting to see tiny bits of definition showing up on my body. Eating a bit of extra food made me feel confident that I had enough energy to complete the gym classes.
I feel like a bit of a traitor, to be honest. A traitor to Optifast. And a bit of an imposter. I'm still netting the 1000 calories I'm supposed to be on. But, I'm eating more. I'm eating the Optifast products, but only roughly following their nutritional and calorie intake ideas. And so, I just don't feel genuine.
But then, maybe this is all part of it. I'm learning how to lose without Optifast. Perhaps a bit of an early Maintenance/Stabilsation phase. I'm learning how to eat. How to be active. How to be healthy. Isn't that why I did this? Isn't that what Optifast was designed for?
Maybe if I just called it "Maintenance" (which is 1200 calories), I could be done with the whole debate!
At any rate - it's working. What I'm doing is working. I'm going to keep doing it. Eating when my body needs it, but making sure that when I do I'm making good choices. Just because I go to the gym doesn't mean I get an extra 200 calories of chips or chocolate. I need vegetables, protein, dairy. And a few complex carbs.
WIL: 1.9kgs!
WIG: The realisation that I can achieve awesome things if I commit to it. 10 weeks ago, I couldn't run for longer than a minute at a time. And now I can run for 30mins straight, baby!!
Monday, March 31, 2014
Week 21
This week I lost 0.6kg! Not bad at all. I'm expecting that to drop back down a little this week, because yesterday I weighed in about another 0.6kgs lighter. No matter though - down is good. Plus, being 83.7kgs means I have hit another goal: I have lost 30% of my starting body weight!! Amazing!
Here's a progress photo I had the boyfriend take for me yesterday:
This morning we ran for 30mins straight! This is the last week of the C25K program we're doing. We did the timed version, so the goal was 30mins. And we did it! We are running it two more times this week and will try to improve on the pace a little. Today we ran at 8.3kp/h and ran just under 4.2km. Not bad! We were actually pretty consistent in our overall pace too, which I always hope for. Sometimes we can go out a bit fast and then drag it home, so I liked that we kept it pretty consistent the whole way.
I never thought, all those weeks ago when I started just running 60 seconds at a time (and struggling to finish), that I'd be able to run so far and for so long. Especially after only 9-10 weeks of training. It's a great feeling!
I'm not sure if we'll keep running for 30mins three times a week and try to up our pace, or if we'll try to get to 5km first. I think we might go for the distance first since there is a cool program they run in Australia called ParkRun where you can go run a free timed fun run every week. I just feel like that would be a great thing to do. Then we can work on our pace through those official times.
Running was extra awesome this morning because on the weekend I splurged a little and bought myself some new leggings, a visor, a new sports bra, and a belt to put my phone in that clips around my waist. Much more comfortable than carrying the phone in the bra!
I had really wanted to hold off a little longer before I bought any bras, because I am sure to go down another size or so before I get to my goal weight. But, the lack of support was actually starting to hurt a bit when I ran, so I had to relent. The really wonderful thing was that the lady fit me into a size 14D. The old bras are an 18C (and I was even squeezing into them at my highest weight). So, that felt pretty amazing, I have to say!
I think this is going to be a good week!
WIL: 0.6kgs and another big milestone!
WIG: New running gear!! The ability to run for 30mins without stopping!
Monday, March 24, 2014
Week 20
It feels so weird to be typing "Week 20" in the header there. I remember from Day 1 to something like week 6 I felt like this diet was going to take forever. But the days just go by anyway. And then one day you're typing in "Week 20". Amazing. That means one day I'm going to be typing "goal weight achieved". ;)
This week was rough. I went over calories 3 out of the 7 days. I already spoke about the first two in my last post, but yesterday's eat-fest was the worst emotionally. Damage-wise I went about 500 calories over my goal. My goal on Transition is 800-1000 calories. So, 1500 calories for the day - not such a big deal in the scheme of things. I'm actually not feeling guilty about the food.
It was that feeling. If you are an emotional eater, you'll know what I mean. That voice in your head that drives you to the fridge searching for something to make you happy. Something you can just shove into your mouth. That little idea that eating all the food is somehow the only solution to the problem. It really feels like a compulsion to me. And no matter how much food I gave it, it never seemed enough.
In the end, the choices I made were ok enough to keep the excess calories to a minimum. (Read: I baked and ate a whole batch of cloud bread. Not filling or satisfying - do not recommend). And I skipped dinner to make up for it somewhat. So, about 6pm I decided to try a tip I've heard around the place - I brushed my teeth. It actually worked pretty well. I'd had that kind of mouth-watering feeling going on and it cured that. Plus, it was a kind of mental signal that eating was done for the day. I then settled down with a cup of spearmint and camomile tea, which made me sleepy. And at 8.30 I went to bed early.
Luckily I woke up to some friendly scales, which didn't punish me for my rocky week. I lost 1.2kgs! Yay!
This morning's C25K run was 28mins. I was still grumpy from all the stress I'm in at the moment and I just did not have the willpower to push through. When it got tough, I just stopped. Over and over. I think I stopped 4 or 5 times after halfway.
I told my best friend about the stopping in the run this morning, and he said the most wonderful thing: "Well, that means you started again 4 or 5 times. Even though it was tough." Made me feel really wonderful. Love that guy!
So, I'll be trying to finish it non-stop on Wednesday. But, I'm not too fussed about it. If I need to repeat this week, so be it. I'm actually feeling like a nice non-challenging week would be good for me at the moment.
Thanks for all the love and support you've all been giving me here in the blogosphere, on MFP and on Facebook. I've really been leaning on you all lately, and I appreciate you propping me up a bit! Love to you all.
Here's hoping this is a better week and I can get everything under control a bit more! Better weeks for all, I say! Take care. :)
WIL: 1.2kgs
WIG: Can't think of anything this week... Hmm.
This week was rough. I went over calories 3 out of the 7 days. I already spoke about the first two in my last post, but yesterday's eat-fest was the worst emotionally. Damage-wise I went about 500 calories over my goal. My goal on Transition is 800-1000 calories. So, 1500 calories for the day - not such a big deal in the scheme of things. I'm actually not feeling guilty about the food.
It was that feeling. If you are an emotional eater, you'll know what I mean. That voice in your head that drives you to the fridge searching for something to make you happy. Something you can just shove into your mouth. That little idea that eating all the food is somehow the only solution to the problem. It really feels like a compulsion to me. And no matter how much food I gave it, it never seemed enough.
In the end, the choices I made were ok enough to keep the excess calories to a minimum. (Read: I baked and ate a whole batch of cloud bread. Not filling or satisfying - do not recommend). And I skipped dinner to make up for it somewhat. So, about 6pm I decided to try a tip I've heard around the place - I brushed my teeth. It actually worked pretty well. I'd had that kind of mouth-watering feeling going on and it cured that. Plus, it was a kind of mental signal that eating was done for the day. I then settled down with a cup of spearmint and camomile tea, which made me sleepy. And at 8.30 I went to bed early.
Luckily I woke up to some friendly scales, which didn't punish me for my rocky week. I lost 1.2kgs! Yay!
This morning's C25K run was 28mins. I was still grumpy from all the stress I'm in at the moment and I just did not have the willpower to push through. When it got tough, I just stopped. Over and over. I think I stopped 4 or 5 times after halfway.
I told my best friend about the stopping in the run this morning, and he said the most wonderful thing: "Well, that means you started again 4 or 5 times. Even though it was tough." Made me feel really wonderful. Love that guy!
So, I'll be trying to finish it non-stop on Wednesday. But, I'm not too fussed about it. If I need to repeat this week, so be it. I'm actually feeling like a nice non-challenging week would be good for me at the moment.
Thanks for all the love and support you've all been giving me here in the blogosphere, on MFP and on Facebook. I've really been leaning on you all lately, and I appreciate you propping me up a bit! Love to you all.
Here's hoping this is a better week and I can get everything under control a bit more! Better weeks for all, I say! Take care. :)
WIL: 1.2kgs
WIG: Can't think of anything this week... Hmm.
Monday, March 17, 2014
Week 19
19 weeks down. Getting towards 5 months I've been on this diet. Kind of mindblowing.
This week I lost 100g. My Fat% was down a little and my muscle % up, so that is really pleasing. But, as for the smaller loss - I kinda knew that was coming. With such a big loss last week, I was expecting to make up for it somewhat this week.
I also wasn't the best when it came to food last week. For one of my daily meals (which is usually lunch during weekdays because I like eating real food with my coworkers) I had a pretty large sourdough sandwich with chicken and avocado and cheese. And when I say large, I'm talking one of those sandwiches where the bread is 90% of the meal.
In my calorie estimating afterwards (and I usually try to over-estimate) I am fairly sure I was either still within or close to within my calorie goal for the day. I am not too fussed with being 100 or so calories over (my daily goal is 800-1000) since I do a fair amount of exercise. So I was within my calories and didn't blow everything. But it was the way I acted around that sandwich and afterwards that threw me off.
Basically the whole situation started with a couple of rough workouts. After Monday night's Spin class, I nearly passed out. It was hot in the room (packed full of people) and it was one of the toughest workouts I've had in there. The instructor was relentless - hardly ever letting us turn the resistance down. I am usually determined to keep up until I physically can't. I think I only backed off once against her instructions.
After we cooled down and stretched, I suddenly saw this blackness creeping in around the sides of my vision. I immediately grabbed onto the nearest bike seat to steady myself. Somehow I made it out of the hot room and slid down the wall outside. I put my head between my knees and just tried to get the blood back upstairs again. My gym buddy came and sat with me and I was ok after a while.
I know part of it was a slightly harder workout and the hot room, which isn't usually so full of people. But I was sure part of it was also to do with a lack of calories, specifically a lack of carbs.
Then, Wednesday morning's run happened. And it was stupidly hard too. It was 2 x 10min run intervals, separated by a 3min walk. Not that tough really, considering the Friday before had been a 20min straight run. But it was nearly impossible. I was practically sobbing for the last quarter of it. I came the closest to stopping I have on any run. I was feeling overheated and lightheaded again. It was just horrible.
I have no scientific basis for my assumptions, but I basically came to the conclusion that I cannot keep up this level of exercise without adding more carbs to my diet.
I spoke to the temp at my work who is actually trained as a Dietician, but temping with us while she tries to find her first full time Dietician job. I asked her what kinds of carbs I should be eating to help with giving me more energy when I exercise, because I know simple sugars, bread and pasta are danger zone for me. She gave me a few snack ideas I could have 1-2 hours before exercising. Things like:
- 2 rice cakes with cottage cheese
- Yoghurt with banana
- oats/porridge
- any kind of fruit
Some good ideas!
Unfortunately, when I went out for lunch on Thursday and it was a choice between another boring garden salad and a giant chicken, avocado and cheese sandwich... I chose the death by sandwich. My brain "justified it" by convincing me that I needed those carbs. Fine. Well, it would have been fine if I'd stopped halfway when I was actually full.
My friend is a great 6 foot+ tall man, and he devoured his sandwich, while I ate half of mine. I wrapped it up in the paper it came with, and I wish so much I'd thrown it out there. We went back to the office and I then immediately unwrapped it and ate the rest at my desk. I wasn't hungry. In fact I was pretty satiated. And after stuffing the rest of that thing in my face I was incredibly full. And I was full for hours. Even at 3pm I could tell my body was still trying to force that thing through my system.
Not good.
I managed to up my protein in the following days. And on Friday morning I was testing positive for Ketosis again. So, it can't have had that much of an effect on my weight loss/diet. Also, my run on Friday morning went REALLY well. It was 22mins straight and I was surprised when the app told me to stop - I actually felt like I could have kept going for another minute or two if I'd needed to. So, it felt like those carbs were doing their job there.
But, what also happened, is the floodgates opened a little. Since Thursday I have struggled to keep my calories under the 1000 goal, even under 1100. And when I say struggle, I mean that most of my days were 1000 or 1050 total, but that I had to do some serious work to keep it to that. I hovered round the fridge all weekend and ate a bazillion sugar free jellies and lollies. I just felt like I couldn't be satisfied - which is a hard thing to attain by eating sugarfree things, as they can sometimes stimulate your cravings even more.
Last night I made a very delicious Vegetable frittata, which was exceptionally satisfying. But even an hour after dinner I wanted to grab another serving. Because of cravings, not hunger.
So, I'm making a committment here and now: This week, I am laying off the sugarfree stuff and "extras" in general. I can have a banana before my workouts and a homemade (no added sugar) yoghurt for afternoon snacks. Other than that I can have my usual meal and shakes, water and vegetables. That is all. No weight watchers mousse because I can squeeze it into my calorie allowance. No, sugarfree lollies. Nothing.
I need to get back into the habit of eating vegetables when I need to snack on something. So, I'll be carting around lots of veggie sticks this week!
I don't see this past week as a failure, though. I still had a loss. I didn't gain despite going slightly off track. And I was expecting a smaller loss anyway. You don't suddenly lose 2.2kgs this fair into your diet without things evening out again sooner or later! My loss this week may have nothing to do with the struggles I've had at all, because despite making it hard for myself I still kept my calories fairly under control. But, even if I'd lost more this week, I think this problem needs to be addressed.
I've been able to identify what I'm doing and make a plan to reign it back in. I haven't "fallen off track" or "cheated". I feel I've just wobbled a little bit and learned how to avoid this happening.
I'm going to treat this week the same way I did the first week of the program: Expect it to be hard. I'm going to want sugarfree lollies and all that crap I have been slipping in lately. But, I can't have it. And if I don't have it this week, those cravings should go away. I just need to stay strong for a few days.
-----
P.S ~ My run this morning was 25mins straight! It was so hard, but I made it!
-----
WIL: 100g! A little bit of control. Fat %.
WIG: Muscle %. Recommittment to my weight loss program. Perspective. A plan.
This week I lost 100g. My Fat% was down a little and my muscle % up, so that is really pleasing. But, as for the smaller loss - I kinda knew that was coming. With such a big loss last week, I was expecting to make up for it somewhat this week.
I also wasn't the best when it came to food last week. For one of my daily meals (which is usually lunch during weekdays because I like eating real food with my coworkers) I had a pretty large sourdough sandwich with chicken and avocado and cheese. And when I say large, I'm talking one of those sandwiches where the bread is 90% of the meal.
In my calorie estimating afterwards (and I usually try to over-estimate) I am fairly sure I was either still within or close to within my calorie goal for the day. I am not too fussed with being 100 or so calories over (my daily goal is 800-1000) since I do a fair amount of exercise. So I was within my calories and didn't blow everything. But it was the way I acted around that sandwich and afterwards that threw me off.
Basically the whole situation started with a couple of rough workouts. After Monday night's Spin class, I nearly passed out. It was hot in the room (packed full of people) and it was one of the toughest workouts I've had in there. The instructor was relentless - hardly ever letting us turn the resistance down. I am usually determined to keep up until I physically can't. I think I only backed off once against her instructions.
After we cooled down and stretched, I suddenly saw this blackness creeping in around the sides of my vision. I immediately grabbed onto the nearest bike seat to steady myself. Somehow I made it out of the hot room and slid down the wall outside. I put my head between my knees and just tried to get the blood back upstairs again. My gym buddy came and sat with me and I was ok after a while.
I know part of it was a slightly harder workout and the hot room, which isn't usually so full of people. But I was sure part of it was also to do with a lack of calories, specifically a lack of carbs.
Then, Wednesday morning's run happened. And it was stupidly hard too. It was 2 x 10min run intervals, separated by a 3min walk. Not that tough really, considering the Friday before had been a 20min straight run. But it was nearly impossible. I was practically sobbing for the last quarter of it. I came the closest to stopping I have on any run. I was feeling overheated and lightheaded again. It was just horrible.
I have no scientific basis for my assumptions, but I basically came to the conclusion that I cannot keep up this level of exercise without adding more carbs to my diet.
I spoke to the temp at my work who is actually trained as a Dietician, but temping with us while she tries to find her first full time Dietician job. I asked her what kinds of carbs I should be eating to help with giving me more energy when I exercise, because I know simple sugars, bread and pasta are danger zone for me. She gave me a few snack ideas I could have 1-2 hours before exercising. Things like:
- 2 rice cakes with cottage cheese
- Yoghurt with banana
- oats/porridge
- any kind of fruit
Some good ideas!
Unfortunately, when I went out for lunch on Thursday and it was a choice between another boring garden salad and a giant chicken, avocado and cheese sandwich... I chose the death by sandwich. My brain "justified it" by convincing me that I needed those carbs. Fine. Well, it would have been fine if I'd stopped halfway when I was actually full.
My friend is a great 6 foot+ tall man, and he devoured his sandwich, while I ate half of mine. I wrapped it up in the paper it came with, and I wish so much I'd thrown it out there. We went back to the office and I then immediately unwrapped it and ate the rest at my desk. I wasn't hungry. In fact I was pretty satiated. And after stuffing the rest of that thing in my face I was incredibly full. And I was full for hours. Even at 3pm I could tell my body was still trying to force that thing through my system.
Not good.
I managed to up my protein in the following days. And on Friday morning I was testing positive for Ketosis again. So, it can't have had that much of an effect on my weight loss/diet. Also, my run on Friday morning went REALLY well. It was 22mins straight and I was surprised when the app told me to stop - I actually felt like I could have kept going for another minute or two if I'd needed to. So, it felt like those carbs were doing their job there.
But, what also happened, is the floodgates opened a little. Since Thursday I have struggled to keep my calories under the 1000 goal, even under 1100. And when I say struggle, I mean that most of my days were 1000 or 1050 total, but that I had to do some serious work to keep it to that. I hovered round the fridge all weekend and ate a bazillion sugar free jellies and lollies. I just felt like I couldn't be satisfied - which is a hard thing to attain by eating sugarfree things, as they can sometimes stimulate your cravings even more.
Last night I made a very delicious Vegetable frittata, which was exceptionally satisfying. But even an hour after dinner I wanted to grab another serving. Because of cravings, not hunger.
So, I'm making a committment here and now: This week, I am laying off the sugarfree stuff and "extras" in general. I can have a banana before my workouts and a homemade (no added sugar) yoghurt for afternoon snacks. Other than that I can have my usual meal and shakes, water and vegetables. That is all. No weight watchers mousse because I can squeeze it into my calorie allowance. No, sugarfree lollies. Nothing.
I need to get back into the habit of eating vegetables when I need to snack on something. So, I'll be carting around lots of veggie sticks this week!
I don't see this past week as a failure, though. I still had a loss. I didn't gain despite going slightly off track. And I was expecting a smaller loss anyway. You don't suddenly lose 2.2kgs this fair into your diet without things evening out again sooner or later! My loss this week may have nothing to do with the struggles I've had at all, because despite making it hard for myself I still kept my calories fairly under control. But, even if I'd lost more this week, I think this problem needs to be addressed.
I've been able to identify what I'm doing and make a plan to reign it back in. I haven't "fallen off track" or "cheated". I feel I've just wobbled a little bit and learned how to avoid this happening. I'm going to treat this week the same way I did the first week of the program: Expect it to be hard. I'm going to want sugarfree lollies and all that crap I have been slipping in lately. But, I can't have it. And if I don't have it this week, those cravings should go away. I just need to stay strong for a few days.
-----
P.S ~ My run this morning was 25mins straight! It was so hard, but I made it!
-----
WIL: 100g! A little bit of control. Fat %.
WIG: Muscle %. Recommittment to my weight loss program. Perspective. A plan.
Monday, March 10, 2014
Week 18
Today I just couldn't be happier. I stepped on the scales this morning to see a lovely big whoosh, and an extra special surpise: I am no longer obese.
Not only did I somehow manage to lose 2.2kgs this week (what!?), but my BMI is now 29.6. I really can't believe it. I had to step on and off the scales a few more times to make sure it was right.
Seriously, though: What!?!!!?
It's 18 weeks since I started Optifast. 12 weeks of Intensive (how did I ever do that?) and 6 weeks of Transition. That's 126 days total - over a third of a year! Wow.
I've been through so many ups and downs in the past 4 months, and I really cannot believe that I haven't turned to food to make it better at all. Sure, I've eaten off plan a few times, but I've always counted my calories and made sure it was for the right reasons - like needing fuel to exercise.
I weigh 85.6kgs today. And it seems like I'm closing in on my ultimate goal fast. Of course, I expect things to slow down a lot as I have less to lose. But honestly, even as fast as things have gone for me, I'm no longer in a hurry. The way I'm eating these days feels very sustainable. If I had to eat like this forever, I truly believe I could. I'm never hungry, and I'm well and truly in a routine with things. If it takes another year to get to my goal, so be it. I feel better every day. Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.
So, my next goal is 40kgs lost, and also to weigh less than my boyfriend. He is sitting at around 79kgs, so both of those goals are pretty close. I should be there in the next couple of months. Actually - they might get met just in time for my birthday in May! Now that would be a happy birthday!
Oh, and there's one other wonderful thing to report from this week. I finally decided to brave the shops and buy a couple of things to wear to work. My uniform is literally falling off me. The pants, even though stretchy, are finally at the point where they do not stay up. And they don't have loop holes for a belt. Plus, the shirts are so big and gaping, that I'm pretty sure I was at the point of flashing bra on a few occasions. You could have fit another person in those shirts with me, I swear!
So, I pysched up the courage to go to Target on the weekend. For the first time, I did not go into the plus size area. I browsed around the City Dressing section and grabbed a bunch of size 16 shirts and pants to try on. They fit! After the first couple of outfits fit, I decided to quit while I was ahead and just buy them. Being pear-shaped, I've always had a lot of trouble buying pants. But if they were going to fit me first try, I wasn't going to argue! Plus, I think they really looked good!
Today I am at work in my new clothes. My wonderful friend (who always compliments me, because she is just so lovely and kind) has already commented. I am a little nervous that people will notice a big change and, dare I say it, see my FIGURE! But, I think it is worth it for my self esteem to not be looking like a clown in those big clothes. It was really getting depressing putting that stuff on every day.
WIL: 2.2kgs, an "Obese" BMI.
WIG: New clothes! Ability to shop in the "normal" section.
Not only did I somehow manage to lose 2.2kgs this week (what!?), but my BMI is now 29.6. I really can't believe it. I had to step on and off the scales a few more times to make sure it was right.
Seriously, though: What!?!!!?
It's 18 weeks since I started Optifast. 12 weeks of Intensive (how did I ever do that?) and 6 weeks of Transition. That's 126 days total - over a third of a year! Wow.
I've been through so many ups and downs in the past 4 months, and I really cannot believe that I haven't turned to food to make it better at all. Sure, I've eaten off plan a few times, but I've always counted my calories and made sure it was for the right reasons - like needing fuel to exercise.
I weigh 85.6kgs today. And it seems like I'm closing in on my ultimate goal fast. Of course, I expect things to slow down a lot as I have less to lose. But honestly, even as fast as things have gone for me, I'm no longer in a hurry. The way I'm eating these days feels very sustainable. If I had to eat like this forever, I truly believe I could. I'm never hungry, and I'm well and truly in a routine with things. If it takes another year to get to my goal, so be it. I feel better every day. Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.
So, my next goal is 40kgs lost, and also to weigh less than my boyfriend. He is sitting at around 79kgs, so both of those goals are pretty close. I should be there in the next couple of months. Actually - they might get met just in time for my birthday in May! Now that would be a happy birthday!
Oh, and there's one other wonderful thing to report from this week. I finally decided to brave the shops and buy a couple of things to wear to work. My uniform is literally falling off me. The pants, even though stretchy, are finally at the point where they do not stay up. And they don't have loop holes for a belt. Plus, the shirts are so big and gaping, that I'm pretty sure I was at the point of flashing bra on a few occasions. You could have fit another person in those shirts with me, I swear!
So, I pysched up the courage to go to Target on the weekend. For the first time, I did not go into the plus size area. I browsed around the City Dressing section and grabbed a bunch of size 16 shirts and pants to try on. They fit! After the first couple of outfits fit, I decided to quit while I was ahead and just buy them. Being pear-shaped, I've always had a lot of trouble buying pants. But if they were going to fit me first try, I wasn't going to argue! Plus, I think they really looked good!
Today I am at work in my new clothes. My wonderful friend (who always compliments me, because she is just so lovely and kind) has already commented. I am a little nervous that people will notice a big change and, dare I say it, see my FIGURE! But, I think it is worth it for my self esteem to not be looking like a clown in those big clothes. It was really getting depressing putting that stuff on every day.
WIL: 2.2kgs, an "Obese" BMI.
WIG: New clothes! Ability to shop in the "normal" section.
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Week 16 & 17
Right.... so it's been a little while since I've posted. Sorry about that! Things got a little crazy in my world for a bit there, but I'm back to reality again.
Last Sunday night I got a call from my Dad to let me know that my Papa (grandfather) wasn't doing too well. He'd had a planned surgery to replace a heart valve, and, despite being pretty well after the operation (awake, talking a little, eating), he took a real dive the following afternoon. They had to sedate him and put him on a breathing tube. We were all really worried.
I asked my Dad if I should fly to Melbourne to see him, because it might be the last time. He said that maybe I'd better. So, I did. I took the "Red-Eye" that night at 11.30pm and landed at 6am Melbourne time. We went straight to the hospital.
In short, it was a week long emotional rollercoaster of tests for various organs that seemed to not be doing very well (kidneys, bowels, liver, brain), and slight improvements here and there. It seemed like a constant 1.01 steps forward, 1 step back kind of thing. Stressful, in a word. All of my family were stressed, so that made it tough. I was biting a few heads off by the end of it.
I'm back home now. He is on the improve, it seems, but we can't be too optimistic. He's still critical. He's still in the ICU. But, he is off the breathing tube as of this morning. And, the official stance from the doctors is that "we may never know what happened to make him go downhill".
So, diet/exercise-wise, last week was tough. I spent 80% of my days sitting around the hospital and the other 20% at the mercy of whatever food people made me or bought me. I chose veggies and protein wherever I could, and ate small meals. I had my Optifast bars the rest of the time. I think I averaged about one bar a day and two meals of veggies and meat. There were times when I bought a soup that tasted like it had half a cup of butter/oil in it. There were times I had to eat my chicken wrapped in pastry. There were times I had full cream milk or yoghurt to get a dairy serve. I was very conscious of trying to get my nutrients more than I was that things were higher calorie than I was used to. I managed.
I think I did really well, actually. I made the best choices available to me at all times. And, if the choice was still not very good, I just ate small amounts. I didn't go hungry though. I don't think that would have been good.
I weighed in yesterday (Monday). Since I didn't get to weigh in last Monday (as I flew out the night before), my loss is for 2 weeks...
I lost 3.4kgs! I am down to 87.8kgs. I am in the 80s! I have lost a total of 32.2kgs and so have hit my next big goal of losing 30kgs! My BMI is 30.4 - just above the "Overweight" range. I am thrilled. Thrilled. I proved to myself that I can do this under stress and out of my comfort zone. There are no excuses for me anymore. I can do this. I will do this.
The only thing I didn't do so well on was the exercise. It was pretty impossible. I did bring my jogging gear and my best intentions to keep it up, but it never happened. I guess I could have found ways to cut into my restless sleep even more and get up even earlier to run. It might have helped a bit with the stress. But, at the time, I was exhausted. And by the time we got home from the hospital of an evening, it was dark. I was a little hesitant to run alone at night in a suburb I'm not used to. I might have been fine, but I probably would have stressed out my Nana even more by doing that. So, I'll forgive myself a week off, I think.
We were back into it yesterday. It was a public holiday and a scorcher heatwise. We didn't get up early enough to run in the morning before the heat hit, so had to run at about 4pm. It was still pretty warm, but my best friend was coming over at about 5pm, so we just had to brave it.
It felt a little weird at first. My legs wanted it, but were just a little wobbly. We soon got into it, though. The program was 3 x 5min runs, with a 3min walk in between. The first 5mins felt like a breeze. But the last one was really tough to complete. It felt like the heat was what made it so hard. I was still really proud that we averaged over 8km/h on each of the running legs. Especially since we'd had a week off.
This week is going to be all about getting organised again. Getting the running happening, and seeing about the gym. Maybe just a couple of classes so I don't hurt myself. And, the food. Getting back into 2 Optifast meals and one regular meal again. I'm sure I'll be my old self by next Monday!
WIL: Any doubts I could do this for life. 3.4kgs!!
WIG: Confidence and pride.
Last Sunday night I got a call from my Dad to let me know that my Papa (grandfather) wasn't doing too well. He'd had a planned surgery to replace a heart valve, and, despite being pretty well after the operation (awake, talking a little, eating), he took a real dive the following afternoon. They had to sedate him and put him on a breathing tube. We were all really worried.
I asked my Dad if I should fly to Melbourne to see him, because it might be the last time. He said that maybe I'd better. So, I did. I took the "Red-Eye" that night at 11.30pm and landed at 6am Melbourne time. We went straight to the hospital.
In short, it was a week long emotional rollercoaster of tests for various organs that seemed to not be doing very well (kidneys, bowels, liver, brain), and slight improvements here and there. It seemed like a constant 1.01 steps forward, 1 step back kind of thing. Stressful, in a word. All of my family were stressed, so that made it tough. I was biting a few heads off by the end of it.
I'm back home now. He is on the improve, it seems, but we can't be too optimistic. He's still critical. He's still in the ICU. But, he is off the breathing tube as of this morning. And, the official stance from the doctors is that "we may never know what happened to make him go downhill".
So, diet/exercise-wise, last week was tough. I spent 80% of my days sitting around the hospital and the other 20% at the mercy of whatever food people made me or bought me. I chose veggies and protein wherever I could, and ate small meals. I had my Optifast bars the rest of the time. I think I averaged about one bar a day and two meals of veggies and meat. There were times when I bought a soup that tasted like it had half a cup of butter/oil in it. There were times I had to eat my chicken wrapped in pastry. There were times I had full cream milk or yoghurt to get a dairy serve. I was very conscious of trying to get my nutrients more than I was that things were higher calorie than I was used to. I managed.
I think I did really well, actually. I made the best choices available to me at all times. And, if the choice was still not very good, I just ate small amounts. I didn't go hungry though. I don't think that would have been good.
I weighed in yesterday (Monday). Since I didn't get to weigh in last Monday (as I flew out the night before), my loss is for 2 weeks...
I lost 3.4kgs! I am down to 87.8kgs. I am in the 80s! I have lost a total of 32.2kgs and so have hit my next big goal of losing 30kgs! My BMI is 30.4 - just above the "Overweight" range. I am thrilled. Thrilled. I proved to myself that I can do this under stress and out of my comfort zone. There are no excuses for me anymore. I can do this. I will do this.
The only thing I didn't do so well on was the exercise. It was pretty impossible. I did bring my jogging gear and my best intentions to keep it up, but it never happened. I guess I could have found ways to cut into my restless sleep even more and get up even earlier to run. It might have helped a bit with the stress. But, at the time, I was exhausted. And by the time we got home from the hospital of an evening, it was dark. I was a little hesitant to run alone at night in a suburb I'm not used to. I might have been fine, but I probably would have stressed out my Nana even more by doing that. So, I'll forgive myself a week off, I think.
We were back into it yesterday. It was a public holiday and a scorcher heatwise. We didn't get up early enough to run in the morning before the heat hit, so had to run at about 4pm. It was still pretty warm, but my best friend was coming over at about 5pm, so we just had to brave it. It felt a little weird at first. My legs wanted it, but were just a little wobbly. We soon got into it, though. The program was 3 x 5min runs, with a 3min walk in between. The first 5mins felt like a breeze. But the last one was really tough to complete. It felt like the heat was what made it so hard. I was still really proud that we averaged over 8km/h on each of the running legs. Especially since we'd had a week off.
This week is going to be all about getting organised again. Getting the running happening, and seeing about the gym. Maybe just a couple of classes so I don't hurt myself. And, the food. Getting back into 2 Optifast meals and one regular meal again. I'm sure I'll be my old self by next Monday!
WIL: Any doubts I could do this for life. 3.4kgs!!
WIG: Confidence and pride.
Monday, February 17, 2014
Week 15
15 weeks down! I had to double-check that. 15 weeks sounds like an eternity. But, it really does fly by. I think the first few weeks dragged the most, but once I hit my stride... it has just seemed to flow.
A friend of mine at work told me that when she lost a lot of weight a few years ago, she used to go to bed wishing she could just wake up thin. Then, one day... she did! After all this time, I'm starting to see how that can happen. For the past 15 weeks I could have NOT been on this diet. I could have not been making changes, and still be in the same old rut. I see the value of progress, however fast or slow it is. And one day soon, I am going to wake up at my goal weight.
The other thing that's been nice has been that I've had something else to focus on for a while. Doing the C25K, and starting the gym with another coworker has given me a great distraction. Instead of watching the numbers, I've been feeling my fitness grow and been focusing on recovering from those exercise sessions. I've also been super conscious of eating good things to help me exercise - keeping the higher carb stuff for pre-exercise and the higher protein stuff for after. It really does feel like I'm eating for fuel now. When planning my meals, I honestly think about how the food will help me, not about how it will taste or how I will enjoy it.
This week I lost 700g! I was so relieved because I'd weighed myself a few times during the week (naughty!) and hadn't been seeing much progress at all. I had kind of been expecting a smaller loss this week since every time I've stepped up the exercise my losses have slowed. Especially when there is resistance training involved. I'm totally ok with it. And I don't think 700g is a small loss at all. I think it's quite a big one - just not 1kg+ like it's been pretty consistently for me.
There is no way I'm giving up this exercise because it makes me feel too good. It's doing wonders for my mood and energy levels. As long as the losses keep coming, whatever their size, I'll be happy. It will actually be interesting to see how the losses continue (smaller, greater or similar etc.)
This weekend I got organised with my food. Boyfriend and I did a big shop and got everything planned for our lunches and dinners. I made some cauliflower pizza bases and topped them with low sodium tomato paste, zucchini, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, capsicum, mushroom and some of the Kraft Live Free cheese. I made two small bases and divided them into 4 servings at 240 cal each. Then I have that with a small side salad for a meal. Yum!
I got given a dozen free eggs at work last week, so I made up some little frittata/muffin cup things with spinach, grated zucchini and home made oven-dried tomatoes. Yum! They're all individually packed in the freezer ready to go as a mini protein snack for my big exercise days. Or I can have a couple with salad for a meal.
I also made some yoghurt this weekend! They had the Easiyo yoghurt makers on sale for $12 at my local supermarket, and I am sick of paying up to $2 for a single serve of low sugar greek yoghurt, so I decided to go for it. The Easiyo packet mixes aren't that economical, but I'd read that you can make your own yoghurt from scratch with just UHT milk, milk powder and a few spoons of a good commercial yoghurt. My first effort turned out SUPER runny, which I have read is pretty common when you only use Skim Milk. So, I just strained it through a tea towel for a bit (like Greek Yoghurt) and it's now super thick and delicious. It's nice on its own, but a tsp of Stevia and some blueberries makes it divine!!
I'm going to try using Almond Milk next, as that has a higher fat content and may make for a thicker yoghurt. But, because it's lower carb, the total calories should still be lower. I think?! It's a bit hard to know with making your own yoghurt. Regardless - it's fun, way cheaper, and pretty satisfying to know you made it yourself.
In running news, I have completed 3 weeks of the C25K! I have been wondering for a while how that would translate to just non-stop running. So on Saturday night when I was feeling snacky and hovering around the kitchen I decided to go out for a test run! I programmed a 2km fun run into my running app and set off. It felt great, then good, then tough, tougher and ouccchhh! But, I made it. I didn't stop. I ran 2km in 15min, which isn't bad for a newbie! I was so proud of myself and told almost everyone, haha!
 |
| 15 weeks in and feeling good! |
A friend of mine at work told me that when she lost a lot of weight a few years ago, she used to go to bed wishing she could just wake up thin. Then, one day... she did! After all this time, I'm starting to see how that can happen. For the past 15 weeks I could have NOT been on this diet. I could have not been making changes, and still be in the same old rut. I see the value of progress, however fast or slow it is. And one day soon, I am going to wake up at my goal weight.
The other thing that's been nice has been that I've had something else to focus on for a while. Doing the C25K, and starting the gym with another coworker has given me a great distraction. Instead of watching the numbers, I've been feeling my fitness grow and been focusing on recovering from those exercise sessions. I've also been super conscious of eating good things to help me exercise - keeping the higher carb stuff for pre-exercise and the higher protein stuff for after. It really does feel like I'm eating for fuel now. When planning my meals, I honestly think about how the food will help me, not about how it will taste or how I will enjoy it.
This week I lost 700g! I was so relieved because I'd weighed myself a few times during the week (naughty!) and hadn't been seeing much progress at all. I had kind of been expecting a smaller loss this week since every time I've stepped up the exercise my losses have slowed. Especially when there is resistance training involved. I'm totally ok with it. And I don't think 700g is a small loss at all. I think it's quite a big one - just not 1kg+ like it's been pretty consistently for me.
There is no way I'm giving up this exercise because it makes me feel too good. It's doing wonders for my mood and energy levels. As long as the losses keep coming, whatever their size, I'll be happy. It will actually be interesting to see how the losses continue (smaller, greater or similar etc.)
-----
This weekend I got organised with my food. Boyfriend and I did a big shop and got everything planned for our lunches and dinners. I made some cauliflower pizza bases and topped them with low sodium tomato paste, zucchini, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, capsicum, mushroom and some of the Kraft Live Free cheese. I made two small bases and divided them into 4 servings at 240 cal each. Then I have that with a small side salad for a meal. Yum!
I got given a dozen free eggs at work last week, so I made up some little frittata/muffin cup things with spinach, grated zucchini and home made oven-dried tomatoes. Yum! They're all individually packed in the freezer ready to go as a mini protein snack for my big exercise days. Or I can have a couple with salad for a meal.
I also made some yoghurt this weekend! They had the Easiyo yoghurt makers on sale for $12 at my local supermarket, and I am sick of paying up to $2 for a single serve of low sugar greek yoghurt, so I decided to go for it. The Easiyo packet mixes aren't that economical, but I'd read that you can make your own yoghurt from scratch with just UHT milk, milk powder and a few spoons of a good commercial yoghurt. My first effort turned out SUPER runny, which I have read is pretty common when you only use Skim Milk. So, I just strained it through a tea towel for a bit (like Greek Yoghurt) and it's now super thick and delicious. It's nice on its own, but a tsp of Stevia and some blueberries makes it divine!!I'm going to try using Almond Milk next, as that has a higher fat content and may make for a thicker yoghurt. But, because it's lower carb, the total calories should still be lower. I think?! It's a bit hard to know with making your own yoghurt. Regardless - it's fun, way cheaper, and pretty satisfying to know you made it yourself.
-----
In running news, I have completed 3 weeks of the C25K! I have been wondering for a while how that would translate to just non-stop running. So on Saturday night when I was feeling snacky and hovering around the kitchen I decided to go out for a test run! I programmed a 2km fun run into my running app and set off. It felt great, then good, then tough, tougher and ouccchhh! But, I made it. I didn't stop. I ran 2km in 15min, which isn't bad for a newbie! I was so proud of myself and told almost everyone, haha!
I was glad I had clocked up a 15min run on the weekend because it helped me feel more confident for Week 4 of the C25K. A few people have mentioned that it might get a little difficult and I may need to repeat weeks. And when I saw what the Week 4 runs were, I understood. Seriously, I think they should re-think Week 3 and 4 (at least in my program) because Week 3 wasn't much of a step up from Week 2 and now Week 4 is a huge increase! It's this:
- 5 min walking warm up (as usual)
- 3 min running, 90 sec brisk walking
- 5 min running, 3 min brisk walking
- 3 min running, 90 sec brisk walking
- 5 min running
- 5 min walking cool down
So... suddenly it goes from 9mins total running time (Week 3) to 16 mins total running time. Bit of a jump, you think? That's almost twice as long! And week 2 was only 9mins total running time too, so it's a little odd. But anyway, we did it. I really really struggled in the last 5min running interval, but I was just detemined to finish it, regardless of the time. And I did finish, and also didn't die - which I was pretty sure was going to happen at the time!
You can see I really faded out towards the end!
-----
Oh... and P.S.~ The concert on Friday night was AWESOME! I've never been to a better gig. SO glad we got there early. What a way to spend Valentine's Day! Under the stars watching one of my favourite bands? Perfect!
WIL: 700g! (Also, must check on those cms!)
WIG: Fitness (yay). Self-esteem and pride from doing things I couldn't do before (running 2km!). Home made yoghurt - nom!
Monday, February 10, 2014
Week 14
And that's the end of Week 14. I'm still blown away at how long I've been on this diet. Even though, the amount I've lost on Optifast has been pretty quick - I still marvel at how I've managed to stay committed. I think the larger losses are a great motivator. And the simplicity.
This week I weighed in at 91.9kgs. That seems like such a small number to me! In a couple of weeks I might even be in the 80s... gosh. My scales also kindly informed me that my BMI was 31.8 (closing in on sub-30/overweight territory!) and that my body age was 49! Yesss - out of the 50s! Super super stoked.
It's week 3 of the Couch to 5K this week, and I really feel like we're getting into the swing of things. This round is:
- 5 min walk warm up
- 90 sec run / 90 sec walk
- 3 min run / 3 min walk
- 90 sec run / 90 sec walk
- 3 min run
- 5 min walk cool down
So it's actually only 25mins total, compared to 29min last week. I had a bit of trepidation about the jump to a 3min interval (the longest we'd done before was 90 secs), but I think it went pretty well. The last 3min interval was tough and I felt like I was fighting with my legs to move for most of the last minute. But overall it was pretty easy. We are going to try and up the pace in the next two runs this week to increase the difficulty.
I just love running! It gives me such an all-day lift. I'm kind of tempted to add in another run on the weekend where I can test my skills and see how long I could run for. Partly because I'm impatient and want to just run 2km straight, and partly because of those addictive addictive endorphins! But, I don't want to push myself and ruin my body for the program. I guess I should be patient. Patience has worked well for me so far.
I haven't touched the resistance bands or weights since I got so light headed and hungry about a month ago. I was going to wait until I was on Transition... but I haven't done anything about that yet. I guess I've just been focusing on running, and making sure I'm still in control with food. What I just said sounds a bit... excusey? Maybe I'll look into incorporating a quick 10-15min resistance workout twice this week and see how it goes.
I'm actually a little bit in love with my body right now. That sounds so conceited! Slowly this thin waist is starting to appear. And sometimes when I look down at what I previously defined as "thunder thighs" I think - hey they look ok. My legs are kinda nice! Week by week this body that I really like is starting to emerge. I'm not going to fight it - liking myself is something I should have started a long time ago. And if I'd liked what I'd seen when I actually was a healthy weight, I might not have eaten myself to near oblivion. Something to keep working on...
Yesterday boyfriend and I made a delicious kangaroo mince meat bolognese (much lower in fat than beef mince). I've never tried using kangaroo like that before but it worked really well. It honestly tastes just the same as the beef would. I wouldn't know the difference. The man liked it too! I put a scoop of that onto a small bowl of zucchetti (zucchini noodles) and it was a delicous little meal. I love it when we can cook a meal for the both of us!
Speaking of cooking... if you haven't checked out my lovely new friend's blog by now... you really should! http://sunnydarlingblog.com/
She's also doing the Australian Optifast program and is just a whizz at cooking, photography, writing and blogging. I want to make literally every recipe she's posted! I even bought brussel sprouts this week to try her Sprouts on a stick, and I've previously been too afraid to ever try those vegetables given all the bad reviews!
WIL: 1.6kgs!!
WIG: More and more and more fitness. A love for running. More energy. A little self-love!
This week I weighed in at 91.9kgs. That seems like such a small number to me! In a couple of weeks I might even be in the 80s... gosh. My scales also kindly informed me that my BMI was 31.8 (closing in on sub-30/overweight territory!) and that my body age was 49! Yesss - out of the 50s! Super super stoked.
-----
- 5 min walk warm up
- 90 sec run / 90 sec walk
- 3 min run / 3 min walk
- 90 sec run / 90 sec walk
- 3 min run
- 5 min walk cool down
So it's actually only 25mins total, compared to 29min last week. I had a bit of trepidation about the jump to a 3min interval (the longest we'd done before was 90 secs), but I think it went pretty well. The last 3min interval was tough and I felt like I was fighting with my legs to move for most of the last minute. But overall it was pretty easy. We are going to try and up the pace in the next two runs this week to increase the difficulty.
I just love running! It gives me such an all-day lift. I'm kind of tempted to add in another run on the weekend where I can test my skills and see how long I could run for. Partly because I'm impatient and want to just run 2km straight, and partly because of those addictive addictive endorphins! But, I don't want to push myself and ruin my body for the program. I guess I should be patient. Patience has worked well for me so far.
I haven't touched the resistance bands or weights since I got so light headed and hungry about a month ago. I was going to wait until I was on Transition... but I haven't done anything about that yet. I guess I've just been focusing on running, and making sure I'm still in control with food. What I just said sounds a bit... excusey? Maybe I'll look into incorporating a quick 10-15min resistance workout twice this week and see how it goes.
I'm actually a little bit in love with my body right now. That sounds so conceited! Slowly this thin waist is starting to appear. And sometimes when I look down at what I previously defined as "thunder thighs" I think - hey they look ok. My legs are kinda nice! Week by week this body that I really like is starting to emerge. I'm not going to fight it - liking myself is something I should have started a long time ago. And if I'd liked what I'd seen when I actually was a healthy weight, I might not have eaten myself to near oblivion. Something to keep working on...
-----
Yesterday boyfriend and I made a delicious kangaroo mince meat bolognese (much lower in fat than beef mince). I've never tried using kangaroo like that before but it worked really well. It honestly tastes just the same as the beef would. I wouldn't know the difference. The man liked it too! I put a scoop of that onto a small bowl of zucchetti (zucchini noodles) and it was a delicous little meal. I love it when we can cook a meal for the both of us!Speaking of cooking... if you haven't checked out my lovely new friend's blog by now... you really should! http://sunnydarlingblog.com/
She's also doing the Australian Optifast program and is just a whizz at cooking, photography, writing and blogging. I want to make literally every recipe she's posted! I even bought brussel sprouts this week to try her Sprouts on a stick, and I've previously been too afraid to ever try those vegetables given all the bad reviews!
WIL: 1.6kgs!!
WIG: More and more and more fitness. A love for running. More energy. A little self-love!
Monday, February 3, 2014
Week 13
One week of Transition down and I feel great! It's been a mental win this week being able to eat a bit more food. Just that afternoon yoghurt snack in itself is doing wonders for my sanity. I really appreciate everything that Intensive did for me - the detox, the break, the time off thinking about food - but right now I am LOVING the ability to have meat and dairy!
This week I was even pleasantly surprised by an awesome loss - 1.5kgs! Was not expecting that! But I have heard a few people say they have a good week when they move to Transition - must be something the body likes about changing things up.
Pretty awesome having the "kgs to go" be less than what I've already lost! Also the BMI is 32.4 now - creeping creeping towards the Overweight range. Can't wait for that. Oh - and the day my scales stop telling me my body age is 50 will be nice. I think they were saying 54 when I started, but I would very much like them to be a lot closer to my age (28)! Pretty scary thinking that I am getting about like someone nearly twice my age. That must change!!
I did another measure around the waist today too and have happily lost another 2cms. That's 12cms off my waist in total now, which I'm pleased about. I wish I'd taken more measurements in the beginning, but I know that my weight is pretty evenly spaced so there would be reductions everywhere. (Even though some days it feels like I've lost 20kgs exclusively off my boobs!)
The other thing I'm loving is the energy to exercise! It's been great being able to do some runs. We are onto Week 2 of the C25K now and I just did the first run of the week this morning. It was tough. The difficulty has been amped up since last week to 90sec jog and 120sec walk intervals. I did struggle towards the end, but I just slowed up the pace and kept going. The headwind that changed directions so we were constantly running into it was fun (not!) - but I guess I need to learn to run in all conditions. The important thing is that I did it. And next time should be easier.
The endorphins are great. Addictive really. I can see how people become gym junkies. Even though running itself isn't super enjoyable, the feeling of accomplishment and the rush afterwards (which lasts me most of the day) is really wonderful. Is that maybe the Runners High people talk about? Or is that something that happens during running - I should probably look that up!
Oh and today I have finally vowed to get some new undies. My old size 20s are literally falling off me. They are most uncomfortable to run in too. I have my tight leggings over the top, and they are all just a big jumble of loose material underneath. No fun. So, I'll have to grab some new ones this week. Sizing will be interesting - since you can't really try them on at the store! I think I might risk it and get size 16s.
All in all - a great week! Best wishes to everyone reading.
WIL: 1.5kgs and 2cms off the waist! Byebye size 20 undies!
WIG: More food, more fitness, more happiness! Such a great sense of achievement.
This week I was even pleasantly surprised by an awesome loss - 1.5kgs! Was not expecting that! But I have heard a few people say they have a good week when they move to Transition - must be something the body likes about changing things up.Pretty awesome having the "kgs to go" be less than what I've already lost! Also the BMI is 32.4 now - creeping creeping towards the Overweight range. Can't wait for that. Oh - and the day my scales stop telling me my body age is 50 will be nice. I think they were saying 54 when I started, but I would very much like them to be a lot closer to my age (28)! Pretty scary thinking that I am getting about like someone nearly twice my age. That must change!!
I did another measure around the waist today too and have happily lost another 2cms. That's 12cms off my waist in total now, which I'm pleased about. I wish I'd taken more measurements in the beginning, but I know that my weight is pretty evenly spaced so there would be reductions everywhere. (Even though some days it feels like I've lost 20kgs exclusively off my boobs!)
The other thing I'm loving is the energy to exercise! It's been great being able to do some runs. We are onto Week 2 of the C25K now and I just did the first run of the week this morning. It was tough. The difficulty has been amped up since last week to 90sec jog and 120sec walk intervals. I did struggle towards the end, but I just slowed up the pace and kept going. The headwind that changed directions so we were constantly running into it was fun (not!) - but I guess I need to learn to run in all conditions. The important thing is that I did it. And next time should be easier.The endorphins are great. Addictive really. I can see how people become gym junkies. Even though running itself isn't super enjoyable, the feeling of accomplishment and the rush afterwards (which lasts me most of the day) is really wonderful. Is that maybe the Runners High people talk about? Or is that something that happens during running - I should probably look that up!
Oh and today I have finally vowed to get some new undies. My old size 20s are literally falling off me. They are most uncomfortable to run in too. I have my tight leggings over the top, and they are all just a big jumble of loose material underneath. No fun. So, I'll have to grab some new ones this week. Sizing will be interesting - since you can't really try them on at the store! I think I might risk it and get size 16s.
All in all - a great week! Best wishes to everyone reading.
WIL: 1.5kgs and 2cms off the waist! Byebye size 20 undies!
WIG: More food, more fitness, more happiness! Such a great sense of achievement.
Monday, January 27, 2014
Week 12
End of Week 12. That concludes just about 3 months on Optifast Intensive. Wow...
Today I weighed in at 95kgs, which is a loss of 1kg since last week. And.... 25kgs total! Which is OFFICIALLY half way to my goal of 70kgs!!
I cannot believe it. Or how fast it's been. Optifast is truly amazing.
I am going mad on Intensive at the moment and need to do at least a couple of weeks of Transition. And that starts today! I will be making my long-awaited chicken+avo wrap with care and taking a picture to mark the occasion!
Admittedly, I'm a little scared of starting on more real food now. Especially yummy things like chicken and avocado. I think my subconscious agrees with me, because last night I had a horrible dream where I binged on Shapes, chocolate and chips for ages. My dream mind was thinking that I'd blown it - all my hard work eaten away. Thank goodness, it was only a dream. It was terrifying!
But, it's all fine. I'm here today with no slip ups and 25kgs lost to show for it. I hate to sound like I'm boasting, but I'm trying to pump myself up. After being on a diet for a while you start to take things for granted. But, I am really proud of myself. This is the best I've done on any diet, and I'm determined to make it last. And count. And to learn the lessons I need to learn to never get this big (or even close) again.
Go little turtle, go! Can't wait for that BMI to get under 30!!
I was also thinking I should probably post some progress shots. To see if I can tell much of a difference. I definitely feel less bloated. Yesterday while I was out shopping, I mentioned to my boyfriend that I didn't feel like I was a really fat person anymore - maybe just a bit of a chubby one!
Today I weighed in at 95kgs, which is a loss of 1kg since last week. And.... 25kgs total! Which is OFFICIALLY half way to my goal of 70kgs!!
I cannot believe it. Or how fast it's been. Optifast is truly amazing.
I am going mad on Intensive at the moment and need to do at least a couple of weeks of Transition. And that starts today! I will be making my long-awaited chicken+avo wrap with care and taking a picture to mark the occasion!
Admittedly, I'm a little scared of starting on more real food now. Especially yummy things like chicken and avocado. I think my subconscious agrees with me, because last night I had a horrible dream where I binged on Shapes, chocolate and chips for ages. My dream mind was thinking that I'd blown it - all my hard work eaten away. Thank goodness, it was only a dream. It was terrifying!
But, it's all fine. I'm here today with no slip ups and 25kgs lost to show for it. I hate to sound like I'm boasting, but I'm trying to pump myself up. After being on a diet for a while you start to take things for granted. But, I am really proud of myself. This is the best I've done on any diet, and I'm determined to make it last. And count. And to learn the lessons I need to learn to never get this big (or even close) again.
Go little turtle, go! Can't wait for that BMI to get under 30!!
I was also thinking I should probably post some progress shots. To see if I can tell much of a difference. I definitely feel less bloated. Yesterday while I was out shopping, I mentioned to my boyfriend that I didn't feel like I was a really fat person anymore - maybe just a bit of a chubby one!
WIL: Another kilo and HALF of my total weight loss goal!
WIG: More confidence, and more intelligence about food.
Monday, January 20, 2014
Week 11
End of Week 11. It's been a bit of a rollercoaster of a week with my emotions all over the place. Trying to stay on top and positive. Overall, feeling good right now.
I lost 1.5kgs this week, which has brought me to 96kgs. That means 24kgs lost, which is a goal of mine (20% of body weight lost). Feeling awesome.
This will be my last week on Intensive and I'm looking forward to Transition. I am SO ready for some real food. I think the monotony of Intensive has finally exhausted me. Just one more week though, and I can change things up a bit.
We got a new cat and a kitten this last weekend - so that has been really exciting! I will update later with some pics!
I lost 1.5kgs this week, which has brought me to 96kgs. That means 24kgs lost, which is a goal of mine (20% of body weight lost). Feeling awesome.
This will be my last week on Intensive and I'm looking forward to Transition. I am SO ready for some real food. I think the monotony of Intensive has finally exhausted me. Just one more week though, and I can change things up a bit.
We got a new cat and a kitten this last weekend - so that has been really exciting! I will update later with some pics!
Monday, January 13, 2014
Week 10
Today is Week 10 Weigh-In day. I lost 0.9kg in the last week. First time on this diet that I've lost less than 1kg, but whatever! It's still 900grams I'm not carrying around with me. I was good this week. I didn't deviate at all. I'm really in a routine with my eating now. Yesterday I went and saw The Hunger Games 2 with a friend of mine. I took my 1L water bottle and even bought along a little snap-lock bag of veggie sticks to have in the movie. In the end, I actually didn't really miss snacking that much, so I only ate a few.
Actually, after the movie, my friend bought himself a packet of potato chips. He offered me one, smiling. (He knows that I'm on a diet). I said "No, thanks." He replied, "I bet you do, really."
That made me stop and think! Thing is, I didn't really. I wasn't hungry, I wasn't craving salt. I didn't even expect that it would taste particularly nice. Why would I want to eat it? I feel like some big changes are happening inside me!
Oh, and people are starting to notice! Today a colleague came back from 3 weeks off over Xmas/New Year. He remarked that I looked different. I don't like to draw attention to my weight loss that much so I just said "Oh, okay!" But, he insisted that I must have lost weight and that it was noticable! I thanked him, of course! A man noticed. Woohoo! He is the first person to say anything at work, apart from my good friend who tells me I look fantastic almost every day - bless her! So, you can count that as two compliments today. Score!
On the water front, I've been trying to keep my intake at around 3 litres a day, and, so far so good! My Water Your Body app is helping remind me. I usually drink a lot of water. But days where I might have some diet soft drink, I tend to drink a little less. So, now that I'm being more conscious of it, I seem to not have any room for soft drink. Which, is a good thing. I think it's best if I keep it for treats as I've found a can of Diet Coke really helps if I'm having a hungry moment or need a little pick me up!
My skin is continuing to improve and clear up. I haven't had any big pimples in a while and most of the blotching from past acne is calming down a bit. However, I am more aware of it now, and probably more critical. It's amazing how many things about my appearance I just didn't even care about when I was fatter. I didn't bother with makeup, with doing anything with my hair. I didn't think about clothes too much. Never did my nails, etc. I didn't want to draw attention to myself. And often thought I was disgusting anyway, so why even bother? Now, I feel like I'm trying to be the best me I can be in every way!
In other news, I managed to do 4 x 30min walks and 2 x 30min stationary bike rides this week. Plus one workout with my resistance bands. I'm very conscious of trying to get a bit fitter and toned now. I don't want to become obsessed with fitness, but I want to make sure that when I've lost all my weight I don't then need to do another 6 months of training on top of it to tighten everything up! Also, I need to build good habits now that will last me for my lifetime of maintaining.
This next week I'm aiming to step it up to 3 x bike rides and 3 x resistance band workouts, and at least 4 walks (as usual). Might think about adding in an extra 100g of protein on those days as I don't want to push myself into starvation mode!
My goal for the mental side of things this week, is to be positive! No need for getting stressed or worried. The weight is coming off. It will be gone, eventually. Stay strong, and keep going!
WIL: Nearly a kilo! The ability to wear all but one pair of my work pants.
WIG: Compliments. Better skin. Renewed positive attitude.
Monday, January 6, 2014
Week 9
End of Week 9!! Can you believe it?! I might have to pinch myself to believe that I have been on a diet for over 2 months now! Incredible.
So... guess what!?! I am in DOUBLE DIGITS, baby!! 98.4kgs as of this morning! I am THRILLED to say the least. I just went and crossed off my second goal! I have also added in another goal of 25kgs lost - because that is my halfway point.
It is my first day back to work after 2 weeks off over Xmas and New Year and I am almost floating on air! I am starting to look like a bit of a dork in my baggy work shirts, but oh well! I MUCH prefer them this loose to when they were so tight that I couldn't lift my arms. Two months ago if I had to do a lot of photocopying and bending over that day, I would make sure to wear the slightly looser one so that I didn't cut the circulation off in my arms! Oh how uncomfortable it was to be that big.
I had a pretty big week this week. My sister was over from Melbourne and staying with us. We took her all about Perth and there were MANY lunches and dinners out. I think (to my major dismay!) I only got to have ONE of my mushroom soups. The rest were garden salads at whatever restaurant we were at! It gets annoying having to specially ask for their side salad with no cheese, no beetroot, no dressing or whatever that many times in a week! But, I did it. FAR better to be slightly annoyed than have indulged for a silly reason like saving myself the hassle!
We went to Rottnest one day and as we walked down to the beach (and later back up the beach) I noticed how my boyfriend and sister were walking so much quicker than me across the sand. I was honestly trying to keep up as best as I could and realised that it was probably because I was so heavy that I was sinking into the sand more and it was harder for me to move quickly. I really look forward to the day I can keep up on the sand!
Another thing happened this week, and it's a bit sad, so I do apologise for sharing. Unfortunately, my cat had to be put down. It was a very sad couple of days for me with him being sick and then ultimately having to be put to sleep. I don't remember the last time I cried that much. The reason why I mention it though, is because of how it affected me food wise. There were a couple of times when I went to the fridge for some water and thought about the Snickers ice creams in the fridge. Or the Lindt chocolates in the cupboard. But, amazingly, they were fairly fleeting thoughts. The other thing that I noticed was that I actually lost my appetite. Which, I think I've heard of other (normal sized) people experiencing. I've never in my life noticed that I actually didn't want to eat when I was sad. Probably because I was so busy stuffing my face full of sugar and fat in the hope that it would cheer me up. It made me realise that those times I was never actually hungry - just craving things that I thought made me feel better. I only ate 2 opti meals that day + my veggies. It's a once off so I'm not particularly worried about it. I just wanted to remark upon it because I think it might have been a significant point in my weight loss journey.
So, all in all a very big week for me! But, I have come out of it smiling and realising just how strong I am and how much I DON'T need junk food to make me feel good. It's amazing just how much less important food has become in my life. I honestly am starting to think of my meals as something I need because I'm hungry and will need the energy/nutrients. Not something to make me feel good or have fun.
Oh, and I need to think of another reward to get myself for my 20kgs/double digits goal being achieved. I was going to get a manicure, but last week I broke one of my nails and had to cut the rest of them to make them the same length. Still, I'm not too disappointed because the whole deal with that was that I stopped biting my nails! So, I know they will grow again. My GOSH it looks so much nicer to have nicely trimmed short nails, then bitten and red and sore ones!! I might save the manicure for my 30kgs goal reward.
If you have any reward ideas, let me know! I was thinking maybe a hair cut and colour. I haven't had one of those in a while - it's amazing how much beauty stuff you let go when you don't feel good about yourself because of your weight!
WIL: 1.9kgs... and a grand total of (my very long awaited first major goal of) 21.6kgs lost!!; An extra digit column on the scales - no longer required!; And very sadly, a beautiful kitty cat that I loved dearly.
WIG: So much more confidence in myself; an even stronger willpower muscle; some awesome priceless time with my sis; the ability to look at what I can do and think, "Wow, I am pretty amazing!"; maybe a new way of looking at food??
So... guess what!?! I am in DOUBLE DIGITS, baby!! 98.4kgs as of this morning! I am THRILLED to say the least. I just went and crossed off my second goal! I have also added in another goal of 25kgs lost - because that is my halfway point.
It is my first day back to work after 2 weeks off over Xmas and New Year and I am almost floating on air! I am starting to look like a bit of a dork in my baggy work shirts, but oh well! I MUCH prefer them this loose to when they were so tight that I couldn't lift my arms. Two months ago if I had to do a lot of photocopying and bending over that day, I would make sure to wear the slightly looser one so that I didn't cut the circulation off in my arms! Oh how uncomfortable it was to be that big.
I had a pretty big week this week. My sister was over from Melbourne and staying with us. We took her all about Perth and there were MANY lunches and dinners out. I think (to my major dismay!) I only got to have ONE of my mushroom soups. The rest were garden salads at whatever restaurant we were at! It gets annoying having to specially ask for their side salad with no cheese, no beetroot, no dressing or whatever that many times in a week! But, I did it. FAR better to be slightly annoyed than have indulged for a silly reason like saving myself the hassle!
We went to Rottnest one day and as we walked down to the beach (and later back up the beach) I noticed how my boyfriend and sister were walking so much quicker than me across the sand. I was honestly trying to keep up as best as I could and realised that it was probably because I was so heavy that I was sinking into the sand more and it was harder for me to move quickly. I really look forward to the day I can keep up on the sand!
Another thing happened this week, and it's a bit sad, so I do apologise for sharing. Unfortunately, my cat had to be put down. It was a very sad couple of days for me with him being sick and then ultimately having to be put to sleep. I don't remember the last time I cried that much. The reason why I mention it though, is because of how it affected me food wise. There were a couple of times when I went to the fridge for some water and thought about the Snickers ice creams in the fridge. Or the Lindt chocolates in the cupboard. But, amazingly, they were fairly fleeting thoughts. The other thing that I noticed was that I actually lost my appetite. Which, I think I've heard of other (normal sized) people experiencing. I've never in my life noticed that I actually didn't want to eat when I was sad. Probably because I was so busy stuffing my face full of sugar and fat in the hope that it would cheer me up. It made me realise that those times I was never actually hungry - just craving things that I thought made me feel better. I only ate 2 opti meals that day + my veggies. It's a once off so I'm not particularly worried about it. I just wanted to remark upon it because I think it might have been a significant point in my weight loss journey.
So, all in all a very big week for me! But, I have come out of it smiling and realising just how strong I am and how much I DON'T need junk food to make me feel good. It's amazing just how much less important food has become in my life. I honestly am starting to think of my meals as something I need because I'm hungry and will need the energy/nutrients. Not something to make me feel good or have fun.
Oh, and I need to think of another reward to get myself for my 20kgs/double digits goal being achieved. I was going to get a manicure, but last week I broke one of my nails and had to cut the rest of them to make them the same length. Still, I'm not too disappointed because the whole deal with that was that I stopped biting my nails! So, I know they will grow again. My GOSH it looks so much nicer to have nicely trimmed short nails, then bitten and red and sore ones!! I might save the manicure for my 30kgs goal reward.
If you have any reward ideas, let me know! I was thinking maybe a hair cut and colour. I haven't had one of those in a while - it's amazing how much beauty stuff you let go when you don't feel good about yourself because of your weight!
WIL: 1.9kgs... and a grand total of (my very long awaited first major goal of) 21.6kgs lost!!; An extra digit column on the scales - no longer required!; And very sadly, a beautiful kitty cat that I loved dearly.
WIG: So much more confidence in myself; an even stronger willpower muscle; some awesome priceless time with my sis; the ability to look at what I can do and think, "Wow, I am pretty amazing!"; maybe a new way of looking at food??
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Week 8
End of Week 8 and... 2.6kgs lost!! A massive one! I now weigh 100.3kgs. I am SO close to my first big goal of 20kgs lost and being in double digits. I have been salivating over this moment for so long and it is now so close. Barring anything unforeseeable, I should hit my goal next week! And then I get to treat myself with a lovely manicure as reward!
This week went far better than expected. I had planned to stay on intensive through Christmas and succeeded! It was not easy, mind you. I did decide on Christmas day to take two small lean pieces of turkey on my plate with my salad. And it was delicious. I guess it's technically a 'cheat' but I knew that being protein it wouldn't affect my ketosis or weight loss too much.
I haven't cheated at any of the functions we've been to and didn't really want to. Christmas day was probably the hardest since there was so much sitting around the table looking at food. But what was great was the support from my family. They were all really interested in the diet and kept remarking on how well it was obviously working. So, nobody was trying to get me to eat anything I couldn't. The only thing that was tough was that it sometimes made people feel uncomfortable to be eating those things in front of me. Hopefully they get used to it!
After that day, I felt so many cravings. I guess it was just all the ideas of food and sweets that it had put in my head. The day before I'd made 5 chocolate houses and a cheesecake to bring for presents and dessert and hadn't licked a single spoon or finger! But I think after the day was done I was just so overwhelmed with sugary/fatty food images that it was playing on my mind a bit.
I was nice to myself and let myself have free reign on all my leftover salads and veggie sticks. And my new soda stream was a bit of a saviour too. Gosh I love that machine! I did go a bit nuts on some sugarfree gummybears over those two days too. They are not exactly low in carbs and being chewy I just seem to be able to hoe through them, not like the boiled sweets. So, any kind of jelly sugarfree lollies are now not allowed for me anymore.
A few days on now and I have gotten stuck in to some painting and cleaning in preparation for my sister's week-long visit tomorrow. I feel great and that I am past those nasty cravings.
This week's loss is a wonderful motivator and reminder that I AM strong enough to do this. And those days, even though they seem hard, do pass eventually.
I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! All the best for the New Year!
WIL: 2.6kgs; control over how many sugarfree gummy bears I can eat.
WIG: SO many compliments; a stronger willpower after resisting a billion temptations.
This week went far better than expected. I had planned to stay on intensive through Christmas and succeeded! It was not easy, mind you. I did decide on Christmas day to take two small lean pieces of turkey on my plate with my salad. And it was delicious. I guess it's technically a 'cheat' but I knew that being protein it wouldn't affect my ketosis or weight loss too much.
I haven't cheated at any of the functions we've been to and didn't really want to. Christmas day was probably the hardest since there was so much sitting around the table looking at food. But what was great was the support from my family. They were all really interested in the diet and kept remarking on how well it was obviously working. So, nobody was trying to get me to eat anything I couldn't. The only thing that was tough was that it sometimes made people feel uncomfortable to be eating those things in front of me. Hopefully they get used to it!
After that day, I felt so many cravings. I guess it was just all the ideas of food and sweets that it had put in my head. The day before I'd made 5 chocolate houses and a cheesecake to bring for presents and dessert and hadn't licked a single spoon or finger! But I think after the day was done I was just so overwhelmed with sugary/fatty food images that it was playing on my mind a bit.
I was nice to myself and let myself have free reign on all my leftover salads and veggie sticks. And my new soda stream was a bit of a saviour too. Gosh I love that machine! I did go a bit nuts on some sugarfree gummybears over those two days too. They are not exactly low in carbs and being chewy I just seem to be able to hoe through them, not like the boiled sweets. So, any kind of jelly sugarfree lollies are now not allowed for me anymore.
A few days on now and I have gotten stuck in to some painting and cleaning in preparation for my sister's week-long visit tomorrow. I feel great and that I am past those nasty cravings.
This week's loss is a wonderful motivator and reminder that I AM strong enough to do this. And those days, even though they seem hard, do pass eventually.
I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! All the best for the New Year!
WIL: 2.6kgs; control over how many sugarfree gummy bears I can eat.
WIG: SO many compliments; a stronger willpower after resisting a billion temptations.
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