How to get started

[24Sally48]

I really need to lose weight and am looking for helpful tips on how to get started and stay motivated. I've tried to diet in the past and will do an alright job at it but then will normally fail at it. I need to find a way to stay motivated and to have better self discipline. Any advise would be greatly appreciated.

24Sallt48

[24Sally48]

Thank you for your help and response.

[Nali74]

I don't want to give advice when I'm not familiar with some of the struggles you're going through, I'm no doctor by any means though I have helped a few clients clients with diabetes I'm sure you may know plays a big role with your blood sugar levels and insulin. I will definitely look into the symptoms you're having and do some research on ways to help. There are lots of high protein snacks you can have to help with increasing your protein if that's what your physician is recommending. Jerky is a great snack, I'm not sure how many Carbohydrates you're taking in on an average but Greek yogurt has about 20g of carbs but it also has about 12g of protein. Not always do the shakes help as much but they do help to supplement lack of protein, you have to realize that protein powder is made by man in a factory so it's a processed food for sure, I've been told that you're lucky if your body absorbs half the protein those shakes claim to have. I recommend getting some protein even if it's string cheese, yogurt, jerky, lunch meat, or eggs every 2-3 hours. Your body will only process 30g of protein every 3 hours no matter how much you eat at one time. If you're having trouble with Carbohydrates and how your body processes them, it might be a good idea to get an app from the market for glycemic Index to get a better understanding of what complex and simple carbs are lower or higher on the glycemic Index. Also, I've never tried it but I believe in blood type food nutrition. I know that your body can absorb certain foods better than others depending on your blood type. This may sound silly but I believe this is true because I went on a hike at 18,000 ft to Pico De Orizaba in Mexico, I took a supplement that has an effect on your blood and the level of oxygen taken in. It's amazing how changing the way your blood reacts to a change can actually change your taste buds. Different foods had different flavors before the supplement wore off. Even water tasted different so I'm convinced that your body can absorb certain foods better related to your blood type. One more thing, I would ask your doctor about Chromium Picolinate, I take it every day, it helps with digesting Carbohydrates and some studies say it's great for dianetics. I wish I had some better answers for you but I will surely look into it and try to get back to you.

[Barb135]

I've been reading some of your posts and wondered what your profession might be, now I see.  Maybe you can help me, as well.

I have some health issues that, typically, cause weight gain and I've had a horrible time trying to lose the weight.  One of my issues is hypothyroidism; I'm on med and feel good, but can't shake the weight.  I also have Pernicious Anemia, which means I don't absorb vitamin B12 from food.  I have insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, as well.  I'm also on a medication for peripheral neuropathy that causes weight gain.  

I never got above 115-120 pounds (even when pregnant) until I developed hypothyroidism, then I ballooned.  I gained 30 pounds in less than 3 months, now I struggle to get rid of it.

My doctor wants me on, at least 2, possibly 3, protein shakes/day (in addition to regular meals) because he thinks I also don't absorb enough protein from my food (my blood protein levels are usually low).  I know that protein is supposed to suppress the appetite, but it doesn't seem to work for me; 15 minutes after a shake with 25 g of protein and low fat milk (or water), I'm looking for something to eat.  My doctor would like for me to replace at least one meal/day with protein shake and it's just not working.

I walk approximately 2.5 miles most days, unless my neuropathy won't let me.  I've also done yoga for several years, but have been pretty lax lately, though I'm getting back into it.  I'm very active with yard work, etc.  

My biggest problem with working out is that it's no fun to do alone, so I quickly lose motivation!!  My husband is 6' tall and can stand in the shade of a clothesline, so he's not interested in exercising with me and he often thinks I'm too old to be doing some of the things I do.  I tell him that if I stop, I won't be able to do anything.

Suggestions are welcome.  Motivation is critical.  I'm good at helping others, not so good at taking my own advise!!

[Nali74]

First you should set small and very reachable goals, as you accomplish a goal it will help keep you motivated and build your confidence. You can honestly spend 15 minutes a day doing 20/10 intervals of basic bodyweight exercises. 20 seconds on 10 seconds rest. Try to get more protein in your diet and cut out a lot of carbohydrates. Find others who also have similar goals to help motivate you. Find things to get involved in that will give you a reason to exercise and stay motivated, enter a small 5k mud run or mini triathlon event, other than just losing weight, try to create some permanent goals and life changes. Weight loss can often be a temporary solution for a permanent problem if you're lacking motivation. I  say this because I know exactly what you're going through, I've been there. I use to weigh about 280 pounds and I lost over 115 pounds in less than 6 months. It's important to find good reasons to lose weight. I've managed to keep the weight off for over 8 years now, I'm now a health and fitness program designer, and I often still get involved in fun events. I've managed to gain 15-20 of lean muscle and I'm about 10% body fat approaching 40 years old. I hope this helps to motivate you, my motivation comes from helping others now and watching their excitement as they reach their goals. It's never too late to change your life around and be your best! My love and prayers go out to you and those in your life. You can do it!