Weight lost this week: 1.6
Total weight lost: 13
Confessions:
I am totally shocked that I lost at all! I wasn't terrible, but on Friday night we went to the "Sweetheart" dance at church. I was asked to make some frosted "heart" shaped sugar cookies, that Sister McClellan was giving out as prizes. I only had one of the cookies, without frosting, just to make sure they were good! I decided to eat dinner before I left, because I didn't really expect that there would be much food at the dance, maybe some chips or light snacks. Oh my gosh, what a spread! There were several really good hot appetizers, chips and hummus, mini fruit tarts, veggies and dip, and two chocolate fountains (milk & dark) with fruit and cookies and some really good punch!!! At first I resisted, but as the evening went on, and I got more tired, I caved in! I didn't go crazy, but I did eat way more than I should have. And of course, there were some cookies left at home, so I ate several more of them! I wasn't too bad the rest of the weekend, but still not perfect. I guess I'm just lucky!
What worked for me:
I have been watching for food items that are low in points, easy to make, and that I enjoy. I love the "0" point soups from Progresso, especially the Southwestern Veggie that I mentioned last week. They help me a ton. Also, lots of veggies and fruits, yogurt, Swiss Miss hot chocolate and popcorn.
I have found that staying busy in the evening really helps me to keep from snacking. That is when I fold clothes, do dishes etc.
Here is a recipe I found in my e-mail that looks yummy:
Slow-Cooker Salsa Chicken
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup salsa
1 package taco seasoning
1 can reduced fat cream of mushroom soup (condensed)
1/2 cup reduced fat sour cream
Directions
Add chicken to slow cooker. Sprinkle taco seasoning over chicken.Pour salsa and soup over chicken.Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.Remove from heat and stir in sour cream. Serve with rice.NOTES: You may use half the packet of taco seasoning. Some slow cookers cook faster than others. Mine is a true slow cooker (have had it over 10 years.) The newer ones cook a bit faster and you may have to adjust your cooking time based on that! Serve over rice.
Nutritional Info (without rice)
Servings Per Recipe: 6
Amount Per Serving
Calories: 157.2
Total Fat: 3.3 g
Cholesterol: 63.4 mg
Sodium: 654.2 mg
Total Carbs: 6.7 g
Dietary Fiber: 0.9 g
Protein: 24.3 g
Goals for this week:
I didn't get to walk at all, the weather turned crappy, but hopefully it will get better. I want to keep eating lots of veggies, drink more water, and try to get more sleep.
Good luck to all next week!
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Week 7--Finally passed 11
Pounds lost: 2
Total pounds lost: 13
Pounds to go: 12
Confessions
I have been horrible about eating breakfast! It makes it really hard not to want to eat a ton late at night. We also went to Chuck-A-Rama for the first time with some friends and I ate until I was sick. I have been really bad with pop this past week too, so I need to get back on track with my water.
What Worked
Something...I just don't know what it was. We have been super busy and sick lately, so I think the combo of not having time to eat much during the day and taking care of the girls has given me an extra boost. I have tried as much as possible to stick to my eating plan, and that has been helpful. I just tried Mom's southwest chicken soup stuff and that was super good. I added some tortilla chips to it as well.
Recipe
Slow Cooker Sweet & Tangy Chicken
INGREDIENTS
2 (18 ounce) bottles barbeque sauce
1 (15 ounce) can pineapple chunks
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
DIRECTIONS
In a large bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, pineapple with juice, green bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
Arrange 4 of the chicken breasts in the bottom of a slow cooker. Pour half of the barbecue sauce over the chicken. Place remaining chicken in slow cooker, and pour remaining sauce over the top.
Cover, and cook on Low for 8 to 9 hours.
Serve over rice. Makes 8 servings.
**I have no idea how healthy this is, but we are going to try it this week**
Goals
We planned a lot more crock pot meals this week, so hopefully that will make it easier to eat on time. I plan to change up my lunches and mid-day snacks a little so I'm not so starving at night. And, as always, drink more agua!
Total pounds lost: 13
Pounds to go: 12
Confessions
I have been horrible about eating breakfast! It makes it really hard not to want to eat a ton late at night. We also went to Chuck-A-Rama for the first time with some friends and I ate until I was sick. I have been really bad with pop this past week too, so I need to get back on track with my water.
What Worked
Something...I just don't know what it was. We have been super busy and sick lately, so I think the combo of not having time to eat much during the day and taking care of the girls has given me an extra boost. I have tried as much as possible to stick to my eating plan, and that has been helpful. I just tried Mom's southwest chicken soup stuff and that was super good. I added some tortilla chips to it as well.
Recipe
Slow Cooker Sweet & Tangy Chicken
INGREDIENTS
2 (18 ounce) bottles barbeque sauce
1 (15 ounce) can pineapple chunks
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
DIRECTIONS
In a large bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, pineapple with juice, green bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
Arrange 4 of the chicken breasts in the bottom of a slow cooker. Pour half of the barbecue sauce over the chicken. Place remaining chicken in slow cooker, and pour remaining sauce over the top.
Cover, and cook on Low for 8 to 9 hours.
Serve over rice. Makes 8 servings.
**I have no idea how healthy this is, but we are going to try it this week**
Goals
We planned a lot more crock pot meals this week, so hopefully that will make it easier to eat on time. I plan to change up my lunches and mid-day snacks a little so I'm not so starving at night. And, as always, drink more agua!
Monday, February 25, 2008
Week 7 - The Happy Pound
Pounds gained this week: 1.0
Total pounds lost: 7.5
Pounds to go: 32.5
Confessions
Who ever invented Cadbury Mini Eggs should be drug out to the street and shot. Seriously, how can anyone resist such a delicacy? I usually allow myself one bag during this time of year - to be enjoyed SLOWLY and over time. What do you think I did? Of course - I snarfed a whole bag in one day. It was emotional eating - eating out of happiness. Hence my week's title, the happy pound.
What Worked for Me
I worked out hard the first couple of days, but then I got obsessed with our new job opp and spent the rest of my spare time searching the internet for details on the area. But, the two workouts I had were good and I am just starting again this week.
I'm sad not to have a recipe to share :(.
Goals for This Week
The main problem with getting my workouts in is that if they don't happen at the start of the day, then they generally don't happen. So, I made myself a great CD with good morning wake-up songs that I'm putting in my CD player/alarm clock to wake me up! Ideally this will be before the boys wake up, so I can get it done in peace! Wish me luck!
Good luck to all!!!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Week - 6 Gettin' in the groove!
Weight lost this week: 1.4
Total weight lost: 11.4
Confessions:
This week was pretty ordinary. Not much going on, but for the most part I stayed on program. Night time is the hardest for me. I don't sleep well, and I always think that if I eat something when I wake up, it will help me go back to sleep. It really doesn't help, but I still have some toast or pretzels. These things are usually beyond my points for the day, so I am going over by a few points each day. The only thing saving me is that I have so much to lose, that I can still cheat a little and still lose weight. That won't last forever, so I need to convince myself not to eat in the middle of the night!
What worked for me:
Going to my meeting helps every week. It is comforting to hear others having the same difficulties and challenges I have. Also, having the right foods in the house helps stay on track. I have a whole bunch of veggies and salad in the fridge at all times, along with other snacks I enjoy. I also discovered that the Progresso Light Southwestern Vegetable Soup is delicious! If you add 1/2 cup black beans and 1/2 cup corn that adds 2 points and really makes a filling meal!
Recipe:
I found this online and it looks easy and good!
Chicken Italiano
6 POINTS per serving
Ingredients:
5 ounces angel hair pasta
1/2 lb. boneless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
1/2 cup light Italian dressing
11 ounces frozen mixed vegetables
3-1/2 Tbs. grated Parmesan cheese, (optional)
Instructions:
Cook pasta in a large pan of boiling water 4-5 minutes until al dente. Drain. Set aside and keep warm. Combine chicken and 1/4 of the dressing in a heavy nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Sauté chicken 2 minutes, until lightly browned. Add vegetables and remaining dressing. Cover and simmer 7-9 minutes until vegetables are crisp tender, stirring frequently. Serve over pasta. Sprinkle with cheese (add points for cheese).
Yield: 4 servings
Nutritional Information:Per serving: calories 289, fat 5.5g, 17% calories from fat, cholesterol 38mg, protein 21.6g, carbohydrates 38.3g, fiber 4.3g, sugar 5.3g, sodium 377mg
Goals for this week:
The weather has been really nice, and if it continues, I want to start walking for 30 minutes each day. The Chehailis Western Trail is right outside my window at work, and I think Dad or Linda would walk with me. I have done better at drinking water, so I want to keep that up. I am going to try to avoid eating when I wake up at night, any suggestions? Hope everyone has a great week!
Total weight lost: 11.4
Confessions:
This week was pretty ordinary. Not much going on, but for the most part I stayed on program. Night time is the hardest for me. I don't sleep well, and I always think that if I eat something when I wake up, it will help me go back to sleep. It really doesn't help, but I still have some toast or pretzels. These things are usually beyond my points for the day, so I am going over by a few points each day. The only thing saving me is that I have so much to lose, that I can still cheat a little and still lose weight. That won't last forever, so I need to convince myself not to eat in the middle of the night!
What worked for me:
Going to my meeting helps every week. It is comforting to hear others having the same difficulties and challenges I have. Also, having the right foods in the house helps stay on track. I have a whole bunch of veggies and salad in the fridge at all times, along with other snacks I enjoy. I also discovered that the Progresso Light Southwestern Vegetable Soup is delicious! If you add 1/2 cup black beans and 1/2 cup corn that adds 2 points and really makes a filling meal!
Recipe:
I found this online and it looks easy and good!
Chicken Italiano
6 POINTS per serving
Ingredients:
5 ounces angel hair pasta
1/2 lb. boneless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
1/2 cup light Italian dressing
11 ounces frozen mixed vegetables
3-1/2 Tbs. grated Parmesan cheese, (optional)
Instructions:
Cook pasta in a large pan of boiling water 4-5 minutes until al dente. Drain. Set aside and keep warm. Combine chicken and 1/4 of the dressing in a heavy nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Sauté chicken 2 minutes, until lightly browned. Add vegetables and remaining dressing. Cover and simmer 7-9 minutes until vegetables are crisp tender, stirring frequently. Serve over pasta. Sprinkle with cheese (add points for cheese).
Yield: 4 servings
Nutritional Information:Per serving: calories 289, fat 5.5g, 17% calories from fat, cholesterol 38mg, protein 21.6g, carbohydrates 38.3g, fiber 4.3g, sugar 5.3g, sodium 377mg
Goals for this week:
The weather has been really nice, and if it continues, I want to start walking for 30 minutes each day. The Chehailis Western Trail is right outside my window at work, and I think Dad or Linda would walk with me. I have done better at drinking water, so I want to keep that up. I am going to try to avoid eating when I wake up at night, any suggestions? Hope everyone has a great week!
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Week 6 - What the crap?
Pounds lost this week: 2.0
Total pounds lost: 8.5
Pounds to go: 31.5
Confessions
Okay, I seriously don't know how I lost ANY weight this week...confessions include a batch of oatmeal scotchies (where I probably ate half the batch), Ben & Jerry's (the whole pint), chocolates, other cookie offenses, and basically not tracking anything! And, NO EXERCISE! How jacked is this?
What Worked for Me
Well, apparently, eating whatever the crap I want seems to be working! In all reality, I was sick almost the whole week and although I ate bad stuff, I really didn't eat much of anything good for me - no appetite for healthies. So maybe the calories worked themselves out.
Goals for This Week
I had a really good workout yesterday and plan to do it everyday this week, except Sunday. The boys are both sick, so hopefully I'll get it in. Since my appetite is back, I need to get back to tracking so I don't undo this magical weight loss! Also, I really miss not posting a recipe here to share and so I'm going to try some new things this week and hopefully one of them will be worthy!
I WANT TO REACH MY 10 POUND WEIGHT LOSS GOAL THIS WEEK!! wish me luck, and good luck to all of you!!
Total pounds lost: 8.5
Pounds to go: 31.5
Confessions
Okay, I seriously don't know how I lost ANY weight this week...confessions include a batch of oatmeal scotchies (where I probably ate half the batch), Ben & Jerry's (the whole pint), chocolates, other cookie offenses, and basically not tracking anything! And, NO EXERCISE! How jacked is this?
What Worked for Me
Well, apparently, eating whatever the crap I want seems to be working! In all reality, I was sick almost the whole week and although I ate bad stuff, I really didn't eat much of anything good for me - no appetite for healthies. So maybe the calories worked themselves out.
Goals for This Week
I had a really good workout yesterday and plan to do it everyday this week, except Sunday. The boys are both sick, so hopefully I'll get it in. Since my appetite is back, I need to get back to tracking so I don't undo this magical weight loss! Also, I really miss not posting a recipe here to share and so I'm going to try some new things this week and hopefully one of them will be worthy!
I WANT TO REACH MY 10 POUND WEIGHT LOSS GOAL THIS WEEK!! wish me luck, and good luck to all of you!!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Week 6 - I HATE PIZZA!!!
Pounds Lost: 0
Total Pounds Lost: 11
Pounds to go: 13.5
Confession
Pizza again!!! The applicants for the program had interviews on Monday and Friday and we had to attend part of the process to talk up the program. Of course, they had tons of Brick Oven pizza for everyone. I tried Michelle's technique of eating two pieces, waiting 20 minutes, and then deciding if I wanted more. I ate two pieces, waited about 30 seconds, saw how many people were taking slices of the good pizzas, and caved in both times.
Before I was rewarding myself with 1 or 2 meals when I could eat anything I wanted. Those 1 to 2 meals have turned into a weekend smorgousbourg! I really need to get back on track.
What Worked
Keeping busy. The days that were packed full of stuff to do last week really helped me to focus less on food and stick to my plan. I think this week should be good because I have a lot to do.
Goals
Limit myself to 1 or 2 splurge meals. I also need to continue to drink water....winter is making that hard to do. I want to lose 2 lbs this week.
Good luck everyone!
Total Pounds Lost: 11
Pounds to go: 13.5
Confession
Pizza again!!! The applicants for the program had interviews on Monday and Friday and we had to attend part of the process to talk up the program. Of course, they had tons of Brick Oven pizza for everyone. I tried Michelle's technique of eating two pieces, waiting 20 minutes, and then deciding if I wanted more. I ate two pieces, waited about 30 seconds, saw how many people were taking slices of the good pizzas, and caved in both times.
Before I was rewarding myself with 1 or 2 meals when I could eat anything I wanted. Those 1 to 2 meals have turned into a weekend smorgousbourg! I really need to get back on track.
What Worked
Keeping busy. The days that were packed full of stuff to do last week really helped me to focus less on food and stick to my plan. I think this week should be good because I have a lot to do.
Goals
Limit myself to 1 or 2 splurge meals. I also need to continue to drink water....winter is making that hard to do. I want to lose 2 lbs this week.
Good luck everyone!
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Week 5 - Kind of Alive!?!
Pounds lost this week: 1.6
Pounds lost total: 10
Confessions:
Not to many confessions this week. I stayed on track pretty well, just going over on points by a few a day. I guess that is why I only lost 1.6 lbs. this week. I am still finding it hard to drink water and get to my treadmill!!!
What worked for me:
Last week after my meeting I went to the Oroweat day old store. I found some bread that is the large size loaf and it only has 70 calories a slice. It is called "Double Fiber" and it is only 1 point a slice! Yahoo! I also found a new WW dinner, I can't remember the name but it has bow tie pasta and is very good! The best thing about last week was that asparagus is in season! I bought two bunches and stir fried them with some other veggies. Yum-o! They lasted me all week and it is still on sale this week for even less. Safeway had Campbell's Select on sale for $1.00 a can, so I stocked up on those because that is what I have for lunch every day.
I had to make an apple pie for an auction fund raiser to help Timberline Choir's San Francisco trip that Mark is going on. My contribution to the auction was "Dessert of the Month for One Year." The apple pie was the first month's dessert. I had thought about making two pies, just in case one didn't look so pretty, but decided against it because then there would have been one around to tempt me. Thank goodness the one I made looked good enough to put out on the auction table!
Goals for this week:
I am going to try to be really strict on counting my points this week. DRINK MORE WATER!!! I don't know when the excercise will become part of the plan, but I will keep thinking about it! I just have to keep reminding myself that Mark's graduation is looming in the near future, and I would like to feel good about taking pictures with him on his special day!!! That's it for now. Hope everyone has a good week!
Pounds lost total: 10
Confessions:
Not to many confessions this week. I stayed on track pretty well, just going over on points by a few a day. I guess that is why I only lost 1.6 lbs. this week. I am still finding it hard to drink water and get to my treadmill!!!
What worked for me:
Last week after my meeting I went to the Oroweat day old store. I found some bread that is the large size loaf and it only has 70 calories a slice. It is called "Double Fiber" and it is only 1 point a slice! Yahoo! I also found a new WW dinner, I can't remember the name but it has bow tie pasta and is very good! The best thing about last week was that asparagus is in season! I bought two bunches and stir fried them with some other veggies. Yum-o! They lasted me all week and it is still on sale this week for even less. Safeway had Campbell's Select on sale for $1.00 a can, so I stocked up on those because that is what I have for lunch every day.
I had to make an apple pie for an auction fund raiser to help Timberline Choir's San Francisco trip that Mark is going on. My contribution to the auction was "Dessert of the Month for One Year." The apple pie was the first month's dessert. I had thought about making two pies, just in case one didn't look so pretty, but decided against it because then there would have been one around to tempt me. Thank goodness the one I made looked good enough to put out on the auction table!
Goals for this week:
I am going to try to be really strict on counting my points this week. DRINK MORE WATER!!! I don't know when the excercise will become part of the plan, but I will keep thinking about it! I just have to keep reminding myself that Mark's graduation is looming in the near future, and I would like to feel good about taking pictures with him on his special day!!! That's it for now. Hope everyone has a good week!
Monday, February 11, 2008
Week 5 - Barely Alive (HELP!!)
Pounds Lost: 1.5
Total Pounds Lost: 11
Pound to go: 13
Confessions
Where do I start? Okay, so last Friday I was in a training meeting for a couple education project. A couple of the people from our cohort and I usually go to Maverick to get frozen yogurt during the break (which is fat free). Throughout the training, Dr. Larson kept talking about burritos, so I was super freakin' hungry by the time the break came. Not only did I get a huge thing of frozen yogurt, but also one of those wicked skanky hot dogs they sell at gas stations. Later that night, we made a DiGiorno stuffed crust pizza. Lisa ate 1 slice, I ate 7!! Then I pounded 2 huge glasses of Root Beer, 2 Cokes, and a butt-load of chips and crackers.
The next day I did pretty good, but didn't get to eat dinner until almost 9, so I ate way too much. Then, on Sunday, I made some sweet guacamole and two pans of enchiladas. I probably don't need to explain why that was a temptation. And, to top it all off, the MFT applicants for this year had interviews today and we had to be there to answer questions for them. They fed us Brick Oven pizza at the end.....I had 6 pieces and a ton of Root Beer. As if that wasn't enough, I have to pull an all-nighter tonight, so after I'm done with this post I'll be purchasing a 2-liter of Coke. I feel like a turd!
What Worked
The usual, when I was able to pull it off. I did exercise quite a bit last week, but it made my leg tighten up super bad. After Steve (my PT) beat the crap out of my butt, he told me that I'll have to start a lot slower with exercise. That knocked the wind out of me because I really want to start up again. Also, getting more clients has helped because I know that means I have to wear dress pants more often. Nothing is more uncomfortable for me than wearing dress pants that don't fit.
Goals
I am going to try to work out lightly this week. I really need to get back on track with my water as well. That always makes it easier for me to eat healthy.
Good luck everyone!
Total Pounds Lost: 11
Pound to go: 13
Confessions
Where do I start? Okay, so last Friday I was in a training meeting for a couple education project. A couple of the people from our cohort and I usually go to Maverick to get frozen yogurt during the break (which is fat free). Throughout the training, Dr. Larson kept talking about burritos, so I was super freakin' hungry by the time the break came. Not only did I get a huge thing of frozen yogurt, but also one of those wicked skanky hot dogs they sell at gas stations. Later that night, we made a DiGiorno stuffed crust pizza. Lisa ate 1 slice, I ate 7!! Then I pounded 2 huge glasses of Root Beer, 2 Cokes, and a butt-load of chips and crackers.
The next day I did pretty good, but didn't get to eat dinner until almost 9, so I ate way too much. Then, on Sunday, I made some sweet guacamole and two pans of enchiladas. I probably don't need to explain why that was a temptation. And, to top it all off, the MFT applicants for this year had interviews today and we had to be there to answer questions for them. They fed us Brick Oven pizza at the end.....I had 6 pieces and a ton of Root Beer. As if that wasn't enough, I have to pull an all-nighter tonight, so after I'm done with this post I'll be purchasing a 2-liter of Coke. I feel like a turd!
What Worked
The usual, when I was able to pull it off. I did exercise quite a bit last week, but it made my leg tighten up super bad. After Steve (my PT) beat the crap out of my butt, he told me that I'll have to start a lot slower with exercise. That knocked the wind out of me because I really want to start up again. Also, getting more clients has helped because I know that means I have to wear dress pants more often. Nothing is more uncomfortable for me than wearing dress pants that don't fit.
Goals
I am going to try to work out lightly this week. I really need to get back on track with my water as well. That always makes it easier for me to eat healthy.
Good luck everyone!
Week 5 - Stayin' Alive
Pounds lost this week: 1.5
Total pounds lost: 6.5
Pounds to go: 33.5
Confessions
I did a little better at tracking points in my head, but still not perfect. On Friday night, our family rediscovered the "pizza house" - Cici's Pizza. We use to go there all the time in Lawrence (really cheap pizza buffet), and found one here. I did pretty well, but I did indulge in a brownie. I think it cursed me, because I got a cold the next day and it's been plagueing me since. Last night I made a "double shot" of the single-serving cake recipe Megan shared, and even added frosting. Doh!
What Worked for Me
I actually stuck with my exercise plan, with the exception of my Saturday workout! It felt good to get that in every day. I also made a trip to Costco and invested in a huge box of veggie burgers. They really aren't that bad; you just have to eat it knowing that it's not really a beef replacement. I tried Mom's chicken slow cooker recipe that she posted on here, and that was very tasty. I've been looking at my sugar consumption ever since Matt's post and sheesh! It is hard to find things with less than 4g of sugar per serving! But it was a great post, because now I am trying to keep it down. I also cut out dessert many nights.
Goals for This Week
I am really going to stick to my exercise plan this week, even though I feel like chud today. It's just good for me all around. And, I am going to up my water intake and write down points.
Good luck, everyone!
Total pounds lost: 6.5
Pounds to go: 33.5
Confessions
I did a little better at tracking points in my head, but still not perfect. On Friday night, our family rediscovered the "pizza house" - Cici's Pizza. We use to go there all the time in Lawrence (really cheap pizza buffet), and found one here. I did pretty well, but I did indulge in a brownie. I think it cursed me, because I got a cold the next day and it's been plagueing me since. Last night I made a "double shot" of the single-serving cake recipe Megan shared, and even added frosting. Doh!
What Worked for Me
I actually stuck with my exercise plan, with the exception of my Saturday workout! It felt good to get that in every day. I also made a trip to Costco and invested in a huge box of veggie burgers. They really aren't that bad; you just have to eat it knowing that it's not really a beef replacement. I tried Mom's chicken slow cooker recipe that she posted on here, and that was very tasty. I've been looking at my sugar consumption ever since Matt's post and sheesh! It is hard to find things with less than 4g of sugar per serving! But it was a great post, because now I am trying to keep it down. I also cut out dessert many nights.
Goals for This Week
I am really going to stick to my exercise plan this week, even though I feel like chud today. It's just good for me all around. And, I am going to up my water intake and write down points.
Good luck, everyone!
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Emotional Eating
I thought I'd post on here something I wrote up a while ago in my journal that has been a good reference for me as I've tried to lose weight. I am DEFINITELY an emotional eater!! Maybe it can help some of you...
Emotions that can trigger eating:
Emotions that can trigger eating:
- sad
- happy
- nervous
- angry
- stressed
- bored
If you're SAD and you want to eat, instead try:
- prayer
- calling a trusted friend
- posting on this blog
- writing someone an email
- going window shopping
- sitting in the sun
- downloading a song & listening to it over and over.
- putting on some happy, nostalgic music.
HAPPY moments that may trigger eating, and what to do instead:
- watching t.v. or a movie - focus on the movie or show!
- parties - start a conversation with someone there. keep a drink in your hand to sip on.
- playing games/friends over - snack on veggies instead of m&m's.
- out to eat - just stay in your points range, or eat half.
- going on vacation - focus on other fun things to do that do not involve food.
If you're NERVOUS and you want to eat, instead try:
- biting your nails!
- preparing, not procrastinating
- prayer
- neck rolls, deep breaths
- put on piano music
If you're ANGRY and you want to eat, instead try:
- resolving the anger with who it involves, if possible
- prayer
- take the five minutes to tend to the person who needs you at the moment
- walk on the treadmill (or outside) for five minutes - FAST.
- take a drive
- put on hymns
If you're STRESSED and you want to eat, instead try:
- reassess the situation - do you really need to be stressed about it?
- prayer
- neck rolls, deep breaths
- put on Enya
If you're BORED and you want to eat, instead try:
- write down five blessings of the day
- sing & dance (alone or with the kids)
- sew something/quilt
- put on Christmas music
- read
- do laundry or dishes
- do a project with the kiddies
IF NOTHING ELSE WORKS....put the offending food down the garbage disposal!!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Week 4 - What a bore
Pounds lost this week: 1.2
Pounds lost total: 8.4
Confessions:
I just wasn't as dedicated this week as I should have been. I had several stressful situations to deal with. I am realizing that stress is my downfall when it comes to dieting! When I am under stress, I just don't want to worry about what I eat, hence I eat what I want! I can either eliminate stress out of my life, which is not realistic, or I have to learn how to deal with it in another way. If anyone has some ideas, please send them my way.
What worked:
Having food in the house that I like and is on my plan is a big help. I also think that going to my meeting every week has helped to keep me on track. I always get some good ideas from the other members, and it helps to associate with people who are dealing with the same issues I do.
Recipe:
This looks like a fun valentine dessert thats healthy and yummy too!
Strawberry Shortcake Kabobs
POINTS® Value: 3
Servings: 4
Ingredients
12 medium strawberries, hulled
2 oz. shortcakes, quartered (use two 3-inch shortcake dessert cups)
1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 Tbsp reduced-calorie margarine
Instructions
Line a cookie sheet with waxed paper. Alternately, thread 3 strawberries and 2 shortcake quarters onto each of 4 wood or metal skewers.
Combine chocolate chips and margarine together in a small saucepan; melt over low heat, stirring until smooth and well blended. Drizzle chocolate mixture over kabobs. Refrigerate until set, about 4 minutes.
Yields 1 kabob per serving.
Goals:
Pounds lost total: 8.4
Confessions:
I just wasn't as dedicated this week as I should have been. I had several stressful situations to deal with. I am realizing that stress is my downfall when it comes to dieting! When I am under stress, I just don't want to worry about what I eat, hence I eat what I want! I can either eliminate stress out of my life, which is not realistic, or I have to learn how to deal with it in another way. If anyone has some ideas, please send them my way.
What worked:
Having food in the house that I like and is on my plan is a big help. I also think that going to my meeting every week has helped to keep me on track. I always get some good ideas from the other members, and it helps to associate with people who are dealing with the same issues I do.
Recipe:
This looks like a fun valentine dessert thats healthy and yummy too!
Strawberry Shortcake Kabobs
POINTS® Value: 3
Servings: 4
Ingredients
12 medium strawberries, hulled
2 oz. shortcakes, quartered (use two 3-inch shortcake dessert cups)
1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 Tbsp reduced-calorie margarine
Instructions
Line a cookie sheet with waxed paper. Alternately, thread 3 strawberries and 2 shortcake quarters onto each of 4 wood or metal skewers.
Combine chocolate chips and margarine together in a small saucepan; melt over low heat, stirring until smooth and well blended. Drizzle chocolate mixture over kabobs. Refrigerate until set, about 4 minutes.
Yields 1 kabob per serving.
Goals:
I am going to try to think of some way to deal with little stressful situations in a different way. I also need to up my water consumption. I want to fine tuning my eating plan to be more careful about counting my points correctly. Have a good week!
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
RH Week 1
Initial Weight: 228.8
Current Weight: 228.2
Weekly Pounds Lost: .6
Total Pounds Lost: .6
Soooo. I was doing pretty good with working out and stuff, but then I went to Costco. For many weeks now I have driven my shopping cart past the Otis Spunkmyer cookie dough and Rhodes Cinnamon Roles. I have always wanted to try them, but knew I shouldn't....well this time I was weak. I only bought the cookie dough, not both, but I have made a couple of batches and ate them before I go to bed, again probably not the best move. What can I say...I like food.
My goals for this week is to work out more and watch what I eat and when I eat.
Current Weight: 228.2
Weekly Pounds Lost: .6
Total Pounds Lost: .6
Soooo. I was doing pretty good with working out and stuff, but then I went to Costco. For many weeks now I have driven my shopping cart past the Otis Spunkmyer cookie dough and Rhodes Cinnamon Roles. I have always wanted to try them, but knew I shouldn't....well this time I was weak. I only bought the cookie dough, not both, but I have made a couple of batches and ate them before I go to bed, again probably not the best move. What can I say...I like food.
My goals for this week is to work out more and watch what I eat and when I eat.
Food Label Headaches
If you are like me, you are a bit lost when you go to the store. All these labels claim so many things, I begin to believe none of them are true. "Made with real juice" is always interesting to me, because they will put that on just about anything fruit flavored, and then on the ingredients, it is one of the last things on the list, usually with artificial flavors and sugar preceding it. My biggest frustration is that I'm lead to believe something is "healthy" or full of some good thing I know I need, but the chemicals and other tricks they use to make it "better" sometimes really make it fattier or more dangerous for the consumer! Anyway, for those who are interested, here are a few tips on current "food label trends" (or if you feel that "ignorance is bliss," feel free to skip this post):
Twelve Tricky Food Labels
When you head to the store, you might be misled by some of the labels on the foods you buy. You think you're getting healthy food, but it's not always true.
February 4th, 2008 @ 8:44am
Registered Dietitian, Melanie Douglass sorts through 12 of the common traps waiting for you in the grocery store.
1. "Natural"
a. If a food has sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, glucose-fructose syrup, OR more than 4 grams of sugar or 3 grams of fat per serving, then "natural" means nothing. Sugar is natural, lard is natural… and they are a far cry from "healthy".
b. Foods to watch out for: cheese (high in fat), yogurts, beverages, fruits, etc (high in sugar)
2. "Vitamin C-Boost"
a. If a food has more than 500 mg of Vitamin C, then it's not worth the extra money. Your body can only absorb 500 mg at a time. Plus, if you have to drink/consume 200 - 400 calories just to get that vitamin C boost, then it's not worth it. Go for a calorie-free Vitamin C supplement instead.
3. "Yogurt-covered"
a. Yogurt coating is full of saturated fat. An ity-bity 2 tbsp. serving of yogurt-covered raisins packs 7 gram of fat and 6 of those are saturated. Ouch. Don't buy anything yogurt coated.
4. "Dried Fruit"
a. Only buy dried fruit that is soft and made without added sugars. Dried fruit that is rock-hard (like banana chips) is full of saturated fat. In a ¼-cup serving of banana chips, you'll get 7 grams of fat and 6 of those are saturated. Double ouch.
5. "0 gram Trans Fat"
a. Just because a food has 0 grams trans fat doesn't mean it's also low in saturated fat - the other heart-damaging fat. Cookies with 0 grams trans fat are still cookies—packed with sugar, calories and artery clogging saturated fat.
6. "Sparking Water with Natural Flavors"
a. Natural flavors in water-type beverages often means it's sweetened with Acesulfame K or Aspartame—two non-nutritive sweeteners that are far from natural in my book.
7. "98% Fat-free" meats
a. 98% fat-free hot dogs and bologna are often made with "mechanically separated" meats. I'm not a fan of mechanically separated meat because it can contains bits and pieces of spinal cord. Here's a good explanation: i. "Mechanically separated meat is a paste produced by compressing carcasses, much like a used car is crushed into a dense block of metal" (Nutrition Action Healthletter, June 2001)
8. "2% Reduced Fat" flavored milks
a. Just because it's reduced fat doesn't mean it's healthy. Flavored milks are really high in sugar. 10 teaspoons per convenience-store bottle! (That's as much added sugar as you should have in an entire day.)
9. "No Cholesterol"
a. Margarine never had cholesterol in the first place. Just because a margarine or butter spread says "no cholesterol" doesn't mean it's healthy. Look for spreads higher in monounsaturated fats and lower in saturated and trans fat.
10. "with Vitamins & Minerals!"
a. Snacks like Poptarts, that have "7 vitamins and minerals!" often only provide 10% or so of mostly b-vitamins that most people aren't deficient in anyway. It's not much of a help—and certainly not a good reason to eat more sugar or fat.
11. "Full Serving Vegetables!"
a. If you have to drink a beverage laden with extra sugar and 1/3 of your day's sodium (480 mg) just to get a "full serving of vegetables", then that is not a good trade. Regular vegetables have 20 - 60 calories and no added sugar or sodium… unlike most beverages.
12. "Made with Whole Grain"
a. A food needs to have at least 16 grams of "whole grain" on the label in order to make a dent in your whole-grain intake and improve your health. Don't confuse "whole grains" and fiber. 8 grams of whole grain usually only has 1 gram of fiber. Foods like snack crackers and cereals usually have 5 - 10 grams of whole grain per serving. Whoopee. I prefer to shop for foods by fiber content and not the elusive and tricky "whole grains". Look for foods with 3 - 5 grams of fiber per serving.
Twelve Tricky Food Labels
When you head to the store, you might be misled by some of the labels on the foods you buy. You think you're getting healthy food, but it's not always true.
February 4th, 2008 @ 8:44am
Registered Dietitian, Melanie Douglass sorts through 12 of the common traps waiting for you in the grocery store.
1. "Natural"
a. If a food has sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, glucose-fructose syrup, OR more than 4 grams of sugar or 3 grams of fat per serving, then "natural" means nothing. Sugar is natural, lard is natural… and they are a far cry from "healthy".
b. Foods to watch out for: cheese (high in fat), yogurts, beverages, fruits, etc (high in sugar)
2. "Vitamin C-Boost"
a. If a food has more than 500 mg of Vitamin C, then it's not worth the extra money. Your body can only absorb 500 mg at a time. Plus, if you have to drink/consume 200 - 400 calories just to get that vitamin C boost, then it's not worth it. Go for a calorie-free Vitamin C supplement instead.
3. "Yogurt-covered"
a. Yogurt coating is full of saturated fat. An ity-bity 2 tbsp. serving of yogurt-covered raisins packs 7 gram of fat and 6 of those are saturated. Ouch. Don't buy anything yogurt coated.
4. "Dried Fruit"
a. Only buy dried fruit that is soft and made without added sugars. Dried fruit that is rock-hard (like banana chips) is full of saturated fat. In a ¼-cup serving of banana chips, you'll get 7 grams of fat and 6 of those are saturated. Double ouch.
5. "0 gram Trans Fat"
a. Just because a food has 0 grams trans fat doesn't mean it's also low in saturated fat - the other heart-damaging fat. Cookies with 0 grams trans fat are still cookies—packed with sugar, calories and artery clogging saturated fat.
6. "Sparking Water with Natural Flavors"
a. Natural flavors in water-type beverages often means it's sweetened with Acesulfame K or Aspartame—two non-nutritive sweeteners that are far from natural in my book.
7. "98% Fat-free" meats
a. 98% fat-free hot dogs and bologna are often made with "mechanically separated" meats. I'm not a fan of mechanically separated meat because it can contains bits and pieces of spinal cord. Here's a good explanation: i. "Mechanically separated meat is a paste produced by compressing carcasses, much like a used car is crushed into a dense block of metal" (Nutrition Action Healthletter, June 2001)
8. "2% Reduced Fat" flavored milks
a. Just because it's reduced fat doesn't mean it's healthy. Flavored milks are really high in sugar. 10 teaspoons per convenience-store bottle! (That's as much added sugar as you should have in an entire day.)
9. "No Cholesterol"
a. Margarine never had cholesterol in the first place. Just because a margarine or butter spread says "no cholesterol" doesn't mean it's healthy. Look for spreads higher in monounsaturated fats and lower in saturated and trans fat.
10. "with Vitamins & Minerals!"
a. Snacks like Poptarts, that have "7 vitamins and minerals!" often only provide 10% or so of mostly b-vitamins that most people aren't deficient in anyway. It's not much of a help—and certainly not a good reason to eat more sugar or fat.
11. "Full Serving Vegetables!"
a. If you have to drink a beverage laden with extra sugar and 1/3 of your day's sodium (480 mg) just to get a "full serving of vegetables", then that is not a good trade. Regular vegetables have 20 - 60 calories and no added sugar or sodium… unlike most beverages.
12. "Made with Whole Grain"
a. A food needs to have at least 16 grams of "whole grain" on the label in order to make a dent in your whole-grain intake and improve your health. Don't confuse "whole grains" and fiber. 8 grams of whole grain usually only has 1 gram of fiber. Foods like snack crackers and cereals usually have 5 - 10 grams of whole grain per serving. Whoopee. I prefer to shop for foods by fiber content and not the elusive and tricky "whole grains". Look for foods with 3 - 5 grams of fiber per serving.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Week 4 - Need to Lose More!
Pounds lost: 0
Pounds to go: 35
Confessions
Again, the points are not being tracked. I didn't feel much like it when I was still down and out from illness. Also, watch my blog for a soon-to-be-posted excursion last Saturday to my latest discovery - the Chocolate Cafe. Need I say more?
What Worked for Me
I bought the Magic Bullet! Again, check out my blog for details. It helped me to make healthier choices because we made so many yummy fruit smoothies, instead of fattening treats. When the fruit starts to go bad, I chunk it up and stick it in the freezer. I'm going to be braver this week and try and sneak some veggies in the smoothies, and flax seed. My rheumatologist told me I need 3 g of Omega 3's everyday!
Also, Peter and I hit Whole Foods again and got a few more products sans "all the bad stuff." I really like Edamame (soy beans) in the dishes I'm preparing - very healthy for you and tasty!
Goals for This Week/Month
The clock is ticking for me....beach week is sneaking up in May. So, I've decided that February is my month. Here's my exercise plan:
Walking at 3 mph on treadmill
Week 1: walk 1 mile a day for six days
Week 2: walk 1.5 miles a day for six days
Week 3: walk 2 miles a day for six days
Week 4: walk 2.5 miles a day for six days
I'd like to eventually get up to walking three miles a day, at 4 miles an hour. This is a good start.
Also, I'm getting back on the points, for REAL. And still trying to omit the yuckies.
Good luck, all!
Pounds to go: 35
Confessions
Again, the points are not being tracked. I didn't feel much like it when I was still down and out from illness. Also, watch my blog for a soon-to-be-posted excursion last Saturday to my latest discovery - the Chocolate Cafe. Need I say more?
What Worked for Me
I bought the Magic Bullet! Again, check out my blog for details. It helped me to make healthier choices because we made so many yummy fruit smoothies, instead of fattening treats. When the fruit starts to go bad, I chunk it up and stick it in the freezer. I'm going to be braver this week and try and sneak some veggies in the smoothies, and flax seed. My rheumatologist told me I need 3 g of Omega 3's everyday!
Also, Peter and I hit Whole Foods again and got a few more products sans "all the bad stuff." I really like Edamame (soy beans) in the dishes I'm preparing - very healthy for you and tasty!
Goals for This Week/Month
The clock is ticking for me....beach week is sneaking up in May. So, I've decided that February is my month. Here's my exercise plan:
Walking at 3 mph on treadmill
Week 1: walk 1 mile a day for six days
Week 2: walk 1.5 miles a day for six days
Week 3: walk 2 miles a day for six days
Week 4: walk 2.5 miles a day for six days
I'd like to eventually get up to walking three miles a day, at 4 miles an hour. This is a good start.
Also, I'm getting back on the points, for REAL. And still trying to omit the yuckies.
Good luck, all!
Friday, February 1, 2008
Week 4 - Fatty Fats Galore
Pounds lost: JACK SQUAT!!!!
Pounds to go: 14.5
Confessions
HOLY POO!!! Trying to lose weight while living with someone who is trying to gain 20 lbs is getting harder. I was doing really good about not eating anything after dinner, but Lisa has had crazy cravings for taquitos at like 11 pm. Every night the smell of hot corn tortillas became a greater temptation, and I finally caved. The crappy part is, once I eat those, I figure I might as well keep going.
Today was the straw that broke the camel's back. I had two meetings where lunch was going to be provided, so I ate a healthy sandwich before I left so that I wouldn't eat a ton of pizza at the meetings. Well, I still ate a buttload of pizza at both meetings, and then went and got a huge thing of frozen yogurt during one of the breaks. I suck.
What worked
NOTHING!
Goals
Bet you can't guess. EXERCISE! I hope fast Sunday will help me get back on track with my eating.
Pounds to go: 14.5
Confessions
HOLY POO!!! Trying to lose weight while living with someone who is trying to gain 20 lbs is getting harder. I was doing really good about not eating anything after dinner, but Lisa has had crazy cravings for taquitos at like 11 pm. Every night the smell of hot corn tortillas became a greater temptation, and I finally caved. The crappy part is, once I eat those, I figure I might as well keep going.
Today was the straw that broke the camel's back. I had two meetings where lunch was going to be provided, so I ate a healthy sandwich before I left so that I wouldn't eat a ton of pizza at the meetings. Well, I still ate a buttload of pizza at both meetings, and then went and got a huge thing of frozen yogurt during one of the breaks. I suck.
What worked
NOTHING!
Goals
Bet you can't guess. EXERCISE! I hope fast Sunday will help me get back on track with my eating.
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