How much weight I lost
25 lbs and counting
What motivated me to lose weight
Combination of a New Year's resolution, reaching my all-time high weight and the upcoming birth of my second child.
Secondary - went to Red Robin for lunch and thought I was being healthy by ordering the Fajita Fiesta Pollo Salad. Found out later that the Bleu Ribbon Burger (my favorite) had less calories and fat than my 'healthy' salad.
How I lost weight
Completely changed my diet and started exercising more frequently and with more conviction.
SlimShots (no affiliation with the company, but they really help curb your appetite)
No more junk food
Salads and/or vegetables every day
Substituted brown rice and whole-wheat pasta for white rice and regular pasta
Substituted pretzels for the myriad of salty snacks I used to eat
Substituted Quaker Oatmeal Squares for the myriad of sweet snacks I used to eat
Oatmeal or Cheerios for breakfast every day
Started making yogurt/skim milk/fruit shakes for every morning
Only eat 1/2 the food when I do go out to a restaurant
Cut out white, french, sourdough breads and butter (which I really love)
Took your 30-day challenge - I didn't always complete each task, but it did give me volumes of reference information related to exercises, stretching and nutrition that I use every day
Walk on the treadmill 5-6 days a week instead of 2-3
Bought resistance bands to start strength training
Started riding my bike (just recently as I live in the Chicago area)
Tips and Tricks
- It is easier to make a big change to your diet, rather than thinking you can stick to a bunch of smaller changes. I tried that and always found myself falling off the wagon and eventually stuffing my face with bad foods.
- Start moving. Think of reasons to exercise rather than excuses not too. It does become addicting.
- Track your progress and write a journal to note how much better you feel
- Track your food/calorie intake at LiveStrong.com (My Daily Plate)- very helpful, especially the suggestions about lower calorie, lower fat foods.
