ONE WEEK AT A TIME beginning March 31st 2020

We have not checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you are have any health related symptoms or concerns, you should contact your doctor who will be able to give you advice specific to your situation.

  • posted by wendleg
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    My goodness , these are challenging times folks and it’s not easy to focus on anything but surviving , providing food and care for our families right now. Also trying not to be overwhelmed by the news and staying sane in all this madness.
    Food for some might just be what is readily available and easy to prepare ……
    If you feel able to continue to share your experiences and concerns on this thread, we are here.

    I feel it would be inappropriate to ‘nag ‘ you right now but if you feel you would like to regain a bit of control in these difficult times , just come and join us and we will do our very best to help so you feel less alone.

    I think we need this safe space more than ever right now xxx
    Massive hugs coming to you all
    Wendy and Sunny B xx

  • posted by SunnyB
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    Thank you for once again leading us into a new week, Wendy. As you say, these are indeed challenging times and for some it may be difficult to manage all the additional stresses as well as sticking with this WOE. For others like me, it’s a way of keeping some control, when so much is outside of my sphere of influence at the moment.

    I will certainly be around to offer those joining us here, encouragement and support. I’ll also be making good BSD choices…. with probable exceptions on Wednesday, as it’s OH’s birthday that day. That said, I’m happy that I’m in overall control on or around target, so will not stress about one day off piste.

    Hope that others will feel encouraged to join us to continue on our BSD quest. Be assured that you will be most welcome, whether you are a regular, a returner or a new comer to the BSD. Wendy and I will be here to offer whatever support we can.
    Stay Well, Stay Positive and Stay With Us
    Big hugs to you all

  • posted by Olive_1
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    Hi Wendy and Sunny B. Thanks for continuing to support us all.
    We live in strange times indeed.
    The situation where I am living, in Sweden, is perhaps a little different to some of yours. Society here is not locked down, my children still go to school, stores are open and full, restaurants, shops etc are open. People are asked to work from home as much as possible – and most people do. If you have the slightest symptoms you should self isolate. All people over 70 are regarded as vulnerable, should isolate themselves and be protected. For me this means not being able to see my parents for a long time. Thank goodness for socialising online.
    If this strategy will work on a society level or not remains to be seen, but so far pretty ok. Not out of control.
    Still it is really scary to see how fast things are changing. I live in a small town and when this is over lot’s of the local business will be gone.
    I’m sticking to this WOE as I’m sure it puts me in a better position to tackle any health issues to come.
    Today is my weight/measurements day and I’m 1 kg down since last week. The total down is 9.5 kg. This is now also officially taking me from obese to overweight! Feels great. Am aiming for breaking the 10 kg before Easter.
    I hope people will keep writing here about daily life and what is on your mind. Good to unload stress and chare successes.
    Take care all!

  • posted by Scottishgal
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    Hi Wendy and Sunny
    Thank you so much for keeping this going and giving your support and encouragement as we all struggle in these difficult times.
    Personally I’m finding it a bit of an emotional rollercoaster with up and down days. I’m sure I’m not alone. One day I’m feeling motivated, getting lots done and too busy to eat but the next day I have no motivation, can’t be bothered and eating whatever I can find (sometimes popping into the local garage for some chocolate while on my daily walk).
    I’m currently off work as I’m diabetic and fall within the vulnerable group. Old timers on here will know that I’ve always blamed my work for my chocolate addiction and comfort eating……turns out it’s still there even when I’m not working!
    But the most difficult part of all this is not being able to hug those we love, especially my parents who are over 70 and isolating.
    However, I know I need to stay positive and we will get through this………eventually.
    I’m intending venturing out to the supermarket tomorrow and the plan is to buy healthy BSD foods.
    Stay safe everyone

  • posted by SueBlue
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    Thanks Wendy and Sunny B. I just posted in the monthly March thread but it’s very quiet on there – no wonder of course with the current events.
    I ended up discarding 900g during March so happy with that, given the circumstances. My focus now is on eating as healthily as I can and doing some form of exercise each day (even if it’s a 15 minute online workout). I’m enjoying having extra time to plan, cook and to prepare meals, even if some ingredients are limited.
    I have started to follow Dr Clare Bailey on Instagram and she’s been putting up recipes that can be made with store cupboard ingredients, so going to try those – the chickpea Tagine and the lentil Dahl look tasty 🙂
    Take care everyone!

  • posted by Dreamscometrue
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    Hi everyone and thanksWendy and SunnyB for keeping this thread going. I’d like to join because I need some focus to get back on board.

    Like all of us, I’m struggling to adjust to “the new normal”, and am conscious that I’m falling into some bad eating/drinking habits already. Being honest, weight loss is not my main priority at the moment, but nor do I want to completely lose my way! So being on this thread should help, and I hope that I can be an encouragement to others to keep going too.

    Like you SueBlue, my aim this week is to get into a better exercise routine than at present, which I hope will not only help keep with weight and fitness but also keep me positive and focused rather than feeling overwhelmed by all the news etc

    Take care everyone and stay safe and well X

  • posted by SunnyB
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    Welcome everyone, it’s great to see that there are people looking for some BAD focus, whilst navigating these difficult times.
    Olive, it sounds like Sweden is where the UK was a couple of weeks ago, but hopefully things will not worsen there as they have here. You are right though, by using this WOE it is putting our health in a better state to get through this global situation.
    ScottishGal, well if nothing else you now have some useful information, re: when you reach for the chocolate and comfort foods. Gaining this knowledge puts you on a stronger situation to be able to find diversion tactics. But for now, please don’t beat yourself up about these digressions. We are all facing trying times and need to be kind to ourselves as well as others.
    SueBlue, you are still marching in the right direction. Adding in some exercise would be a good move if you can. Wendy and I are doing some Qi Gong at the moment … perhaps Wendy will post a link for anyone who is interested in giving this a go. It’s very gentle and meditative.
    Dreamscometrue, good to have you with us. For now, if you are struggling to cope with the full on BSD as well as everything else, just try to make good choices using the BSD principles. That should tide you through and limit any impact on progress already achieved.

    I’m sure Wendy will drop by later and will add her encouragement and inspiration. For now I’ll close with a quote I’ve trotted out before, but it’s worth giving it another outing ….
    “If you are facing in the right direction, all you need to do is keep walking.”

  • posted by Carla45
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    Hello;
    I am new to this forum and way of eating, apologies if I am posting in the wrong area.
    It is certainly a very unsettling time, up and down days, with things changing daily.
    I have decided to use this time confined at home to focus on myself and therefore starting the 800 cal diet to see great results, like I have been reading in theses forums. The plan is to come out of isolation looking and feeling like a new person :).
    Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

    X

  • posted by SunnyB
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    Carla45, welcome …. you are definitely in the right area! Controlling how we feed ourselves is something we definitely can influence right now, in times when our control is limited in other areas.
    My advice is to weight and measure yourself now, so that you have a start point. Then weigh, measure and record all that you consume and track carbs as well as calories. There are apps available to help you do this.
    Get into the habit of reading nutrional panels when shopping and try to avoid processed foods as much as possible.
    Be sure to include good fats in your menu, as these help to make you feel full sooner and stay feeling that way longer. Go for full fat versions of yogurt etc. And hydrate, hydrate, hydrate …. If in doubt, have one more glass of water.
    Others will be along with their top tips I’m sure, but shout out if you have any questions and some one will respond.
    Here’s to you achieving great things in your period of lockdown!

  • posted by wendleg
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    Hi everyone
    My heart sank this morning when I saw messages in my school inbox but fortunately they were all dealt with quickly and I can get on with other things for a while.
    Lovely to see people posting !
    It’s clear from your messages that many of us are feeling a lot of anxiety right now , and that is totally understandable so we are going to do our best to provide a space and way to relieve a bit of stress.
    I’m with Sunny.There are lots of things we cannot control right now but one thing we can do is to look after ourselves, nourishing our bodies with healthy foods and being aware that the comfort foods won’t have any benefits, and will ultimately lower our defences. I know we have to do our best with what we have available and many are feeding families too , but just not reaching for the sugary snacks is just one simple thing we can do , and recognising that anxiety is the driving force, not hunger. I have always said that a major breakthrough for me in this WOE was to be truly aware of what hunger feels like. So waiting to really feel hunger before we eat is another way we can remain in control, and actually enjoy what we eat. That seems so obvious but it took me a long time to get that !
    You know I like to continue my fasting routine too.It was a challenge because I always thought it would be too difficult to do being at home all day, but I have managed it, because it does give me a boost that I am not totally losing the plot ! I’m back in control.
    Watching frivolous daytime telly ..Paul McKenna is discussing our need for comfort foods, because ‘we deserve them’, ‘we’ve had a hard day etc.
    His tips are
    Always eat consciously, slowly and eliminating any distractions, focusing on the taste, not just shovelling food in mindlessly
    Always eat when you are calm. I think that’s a good tip because we can just hoover up anything in the fridge when we are stressed and never finding any satisfaction whatever we grab.
    Stop eating when you are full, even if you feel you could keep going.
    When you feel that compulsion to eat chocolate ( Scottishgal !!) You are not alone ;-), that’s the chocolate controlling YOU.
    Paul McKenna suggests replacing compulsion with revulsion. We are back to KazzUK’s dirty sink soap suds image to cancel out crusty bread !
    I honestly think we have to be realistic here. These are unprecedented times and if you really must have chocolate, well that’s ok as long as it doesn’t unleash the floodgates of a major blow out ? Only you know your limits or lack of …..
    I fully understand that weight discard is not a priority right now but just managing to maintain or at least not totally reverting back to very unhealthy ways is good enough if that is all that feels manageable right now.We don’t need extra pressure to succeed and we certainly shouldn’t be berating ourselves if we slip up.
    We can just do our best to remain in control as best we can so that when all this is over we are not in that really miserable place ( like when New Year resolutions fall by the wayside as yet another missed opportunity) You don’t want to add regrets to an already difficult re adjustment.
    Another big thing for me is banishing all processed foods, focusing on greens,eggs, yoghurt ( if I can get it) simple proteins and keeping things very simple. Admittedly I don’ t have kids demanding snacks which may have irrestible appeal but they are not your friends, remember ? They really aren’t .( I mean the snacks, not the kids !! 😉

    I will respond to you all individually later but I just wanted to post this ( before heading to the kitchen to make a halloumi and spinach curry !) I hope there is something in my ramblings that helps you.
    Just continue to voice your concerns, add a few tips on how you are coping and just remember you are not alone !

    Welcome Carla45 ! Of course you are in the right place !
    I will be back later folks xx

  • posted by caronl
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    Wise words as always Wendleg. x Thank you. I am just aiming not to put any more on. And that absolutely means keeping a lid on “comfort” carbs….and wine. Can still enjoy other comforting BSD food – mushroom omelette, scrambled egg and smoked salmon, and chilli con carne do it for me.

    Carla45 welcome. What a good idea to use the corona-imposed break for a positive purpose. You can emerge as a butterfly when the measures are lifted! Sunny has already given you some tips. My main one would be to keep things simple:
    – cut out the main “white carbs” – rice, potato, pasta, sugar in all its forms, bread.
    – eat plenty of above ground veg – courgette and cauliflower can be shredded or “riced” to provide an alternative to rice/pasta
    – ensure enough protein – fish, eggs, dairy, chicken etc.
    – enjoy healthy fats – full fat yoghurt, olive oil, nuts etc (without going mad!)
    – drink plenty of water. At least 2 litres.
    – go easy on fruit, particularly bananas, mangoes and other exotica.

    You will see I haven’t mentioned the magic 800 cals. It’s probably heresy here, but at a time when we should all be keeping our immune levels really in tip top condition, I think you would be better sticking to the healthy principles above, and not worrying too much about keeping to 800 calories. You can always push on that later if the weight discard slows. http://www.dietdoctor.com is also a good resource for recipes and a visual guide to the foods which are best for managing blood sugar levels.

    Very best wishes to you.

  • posted by WindyJulz
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    Thanks for setting this up guys, for sure the positivity, sharing and support is awesome at this time.

    Okay, I’m in. I really really want to use this week to get a bit of a grip of myself. All the excuses are done, we have a settled routine which on the scale of things is a pretty good one and I have nothing to mump about.
    I might need some guidance though…..genuinely I am thinking about food almost all the time, thinking about chips and puddings and such…..then I do really well through the day – where i have coffee in the morning, salad for lunch (tuna / feta / chicken) and usually a yogurt too. Then in the evening i make a BSD friendly dinner for me and my hubby and sometimes my dad – meat and veggies, usually with some cheese on it, always with some black pepper and a touch of chilli / garlic….. then i get the evening munchies….. I’m so twitchy its unreal and i start craving things I’m not usually that fussed for – cake…… I want cake, Im not even a big cake fan!! How can i address this? My thoughts so far – pretty sure i need to drink more water so i need to have some fizzy water before i even contemplate anything else! But i just need to get the idea of ‘treat’ and ‘pudding’ out of my head and I’m struggling!! We tend to watch evening TV, currently a series on netflix which is good. Pretty sure we are over stimulated looking at our phones a lot (I deleted candycrush at the weekend as that was another addiction which i wanted to address and funnily enough I’m doing fine without it) so do I try and reboot our behaviours and just concentrate solely on the tv? Or each other? (LOL) What do you think? I was addressing all this previously by going to the gym in the evening therefore cutting this time right down. I’m still trying to find the right time to eats – before or after horse time…. tried before last night buy came in “hungry” at 8:30 so might try after tonight…..

    Gosh, sorry, thinking out loud is helping i think. Just feeling a bit sorry for myself, like I am actually never going to be able to be slim, destined to be sturdy for life and maybe should just embrace that and stop beating myself up…..but i genuinely know i feel better for eating this way and that being 2 stone lighter would be an massive help to myself and my horses…… bit lost really.

    Wendy – just went back and reread your post, you are so wise and so helpful. I need to find that mindset.

    Tempted to look into some mediation type things and how to build some better negative associations. I have a friend who does NLP….maybe a time to give her a call and see if I can fix my brain a little.

    I’ll keep checking in as I know that will help me to not roll over and give in to the monstrous carbs…..

    Julz

  • posted by Olive_1
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    Hi Julz,
    I can relate to the evening munchies. I try with a cup of tea, sometimes a piece of brie. If I start on nuts there is no stopping me…
    I kind of think that for me it is a sign that I haven’t eaten enough or the right things during the day. Too little fat and sometimes too little protein and just a lot of veg.
    Just a thought.
    Take care!

  • posted by wendleg
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    Right, before I chat to you all I thought I would share the links to the Qigong videos . They are gentle yet energizing.I find Marisa the instructor very calming and she is easy to follow . I am not a gym bunny and even though Joe Wicks is a lovely lad, he is a bit too chirpy Essex for me 😉 I don’t want my exercise to hurt !

    There is a mixture on here ..of varying lengths. I love it and it is my regular morning routine. It complements Sunny’s meditation practice too. I look forward to taking my lap top out into the garden to do the routine there !

    Here we go
    Daily Qigong routine
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmmNWj9YtAw

    Qigong for beginners
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IyINAjEoTIs

    20 minute routine ‘ Eight pieces of Silk Brocade’
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwlvTcWR3Gs

    Qigong for vitality
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8wddPSIEpvE

    Immune Boost
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3noqRBgxWM&t=2s

    Qigong for protection
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHdmTqkQleo

    Mood lifter

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1tpHKvjewI

    Seated Qigong and Guided Mediatation

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKX9oRQ17kQ

  • posted by SunnyB
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    Julz, you really do seem to be tying yourself in knots, but then it isn’t easy to find an answer to your situation. Perhaps if you try experimenting with mealtimes, you can push back your evening meal, so that there isn’t so long between it and bedtime? Or keep some BSD friendly snack alternatives to hand, for when those munchies get too hard to resist?

    Would definitely recommend meditation and it might well be worth contacting your friend about NLP …. I’m sure they would be very happy to be asked to help. Certainly adjusting our thinking and the way we approach things and react, can make a huge difference.

    Forgive me, I don’t remember how many weeks in you are, but it is not uncommon to have a period of struggle at some point, when it feels like our control is slipping. You WILL get to your goal though, stick with it and it will come right and we’ll do our level best to do what we can to help get you there.

  • posted by Bryla
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    Hi everyone! I’m in for the week.
    Congrats on your milestone, Olive! Hope you feel suitably proud and pleased.

    Welcome Carla45 and Dreamscometrue!

    Last week I found myself thinking about food constantly, but this week has been much better. I sympathise with the problem. Over time I have found it easier to tell the difference between really being hungry and old snacking habits and/or seeking comfort. It’s definitely harder to stay on track at the moment with normal routines out the window, but we can do it!

    Forgive me if someone has already mentioned this, but my tip for the early days (and beyond) is to set yourself mini goals- and write them down. That might be losing 1lb, or just keeping to your 800 calories for one day. I think we need (and deserve) to feel chuffed by every little win and it really boosts my motivation. If we work on the basis of comparing how far we’ve come to the next half stone, or whole inch gone, then we are going to feel dissatisfied quite a lot of the time. Every tiny step adds up over time and should be celebrated, imo!

    WindyJulz I definitely second Olive’s suggestion about getting enough healthy fat to combat hunger/munchies. That’s something I have to work hard at, but it makes a real difference for me (along with being a zealot about fluids). It also helped me a lot to make and sip on green tea during the evening while I developed a bit more resistance to my evening eating habits – my hands and mouth were at least doing something! No idea if it would work for you if you haven’t already tried it.
    Sending love to everyone.

  • posted by WindyJulz
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    Tanks guys. I think just thinking out loud is really helpful, I do need to find a mindset that works. Ive come a long way in how i think adn have made some major break through, I just seem to be having a wobble. I need to not let that beat me.

    SunnyB….. I did 4 weeks of fast 800 last summer, then fell off the wagon a bit but kept basic principles as best as i could, been trying since the new year but realistically wasnt at 800 cals until the end of Feb so really i manged about 3.5 weeks before starting to struggle, the past 2 weeks have been shaky.

    Right, so its dinner time, Ive been on plan all day, I will not ruin it now…..although we are short of protein so it will be roasted veg or a stir fry….but i will not snak…… dinner, decaf coffee, done!

    You guys rock – thanks for letting me sound off. Off to look at Wendy’s Qigong videos….. Im hoping they are a little bit as jedi as they sound!

  • posted by wendleg
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    Good to see you Olive. I hope you stay safe and well there in Sweden and it’s good that you are able to work towards your goals, without the additional lockdown pressure.

    I understand your anxieties Scottishgal with your elderly parents. Can you do Skype calls or similar to check on them ? It really does help ‘seeing ‘ them.I am the same with my boys. I think it is totally normal to be all over the place with your emotions.It’s hard to stay positive at times when we are bombarded with all the bad news but remember there is only so much we can control.
    This is not the time to exacerbate your diabetes though SG, you know that.
    We will get through this.You will be able to hug your Mum and Dad . Stay positive and keep checking in with us so you can disperse a bit of anxiety.
    Hi SueBlue ! You sound pretty focused and we look forward to your updates and any interesting recipes !
    Hi Dreamscometrue ! It’s good that you are aware that you are in danger of falling into ‘unhealthy’ ways and prepared to focus on your wellbeing so you can cope with the anxiety. Weight discard is not paramount for you but hopefully we can help you feel accountable so you don’t drift too much.

    Hi caronl ! It’s always good to see you ! You’re right.It’s about finding ‘comfort’ foods that do us good .I actually feel bereft if I am running low on lettuce 😉 Eggs are always good as they keep us full for a good while and can be tasty as you say with smoked salmon , mushrooms etc.I added some rainbow chard to mine today.
    Oh WindyJulz , bless you , you sound a bit unsettled right now. You are making good food choices but are you eating enough to make you feel satisfied ? Maybe put a bit of butter on your veg, although you say you add cheese ? Definitely make sure you are drinking enough.I have a Drink Water Reminder app on my phone and it does exactly that ! Can you add some form of dessert after your meal…a few berries and full fat Greek Yoghurt ? So that is your ‘pudding’ full stop . Yoghurt and chia seed ‘jam’ made with berries ? No cake , no other ‘treats’. Are you trying to eat your anxiety Julz ? Suppressing it with pudding ? You know deep down it won’t help but you have that insiduous little voice in your ear telling you you might as well put up with being overweight, that you are doomed to be as you are .Not true ! Just set realistic goals right now . You definitely will feel better when you regain a bit of control . Break the pattern of searching for evening snacks . Go into a different room, find an activity that does not remind your brain it is snack time ? I am thinking I should catch up on creating online photobooks from our holiday photos.

    I think dealing with the stress is a good starting point . Sunny recommends Mooji on Youtube for meditation and we have mentioned the Qigong which is very soothing.
    Stay with us Julz and we will do our utmost to still those anxieties and help you get through this unsettled time .

    This is not an easy time to focus on ourselves but we can’t put our wellbeing on hold right now and risk our health xxx

  • posted by wendleg
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    Hi Bryla ! I posted my message before reading yours ! I think we are on the same page ! Your advice is very sound and I am sure that will help lots. Celebrating our victories is very important , especially when the ultimate goal seems so far away.
    I hope you are staying well and enjoying your walks, Bryla ! xx

  • posted by SunnyB
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    There used to be a thread specifically for mini goals, where we’d post what our next mini goal was and when we got there. This meant it became an event people could celebrated with us. We’d also include any little non-foody rewards we’d planned for ourselves on achieving those mini goals.
    Maybe we could resurrect this thread, if people are interested.

  • posted by DoubleDutch
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    Hi all,
    Another week, and today is my weekly ‘scales day’ . I’ve discarded 1.2 kilo this week. I’m very glad we are allowed to walk outside, or this weight loss would probably not happen.. Anyway, I’m still very focused, trying to keep my eyes on the ball at all times. Still, my chocolate cravings are still there and I’m still thinking / dreaming / fantasising about returning to my ‘normal’ eating habits. Which clearly aren’t normal or I would not have ended up with a bmi of 35+. I cannot and will not return to that, so I am trying to get to grips with reality : I will never go back to eating the way I used to. But still dreaming, though. In these weird, weird times, I’m telling myself pretty much daily, there are many things I can’t control right now, the one thing I can control, is what I put in my mouth. And although I cannot control the scales or measurements, this WOE is changing my life, body, energy level, how I look at myself and many other things. Let’s keep going! I’m glad we’re here and sharing our stories and experience.
    Xx DD

  • posted by Scottishgal
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    Thank you Wendy and Sunny, so much good advice on here.
    I’m certainly up for the idea of mini goals. Thinking too far ahead at the moment just seems pointless.
    My shopping trip today didn’t go too well. Knew I had to stock up enough to last a while. ……..didn’t panic buy but did end up buying cakes and biscuits and chocolate……just in case I have an off day……..and ate most of it today! On the positive side I still have all the salad and healthy eating stuff left. So, my mini goal is to eat healthy tomorrow with absolutely no junk food at all for just one day.

  • posted by WindyJulz
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    Oh Scottisgal, I feel you, I may have had a significant chocolate snaxident over the weekend, if its in the house i will eat it!
    On the upside I nailed yesterday, 900 calories, everything on plan…..and i feel better for it….. at least i dont feel guilty and i have a sense of achievement. Come on, lets get through today together!!
    Ive taken mince out of the freezer (not stockpiled, just 2 packets of mince in the freezer which is just as well as we are struggling to get meat). so we will have chilli for dinner and i still have salad stuff for lunch, greek yogurt for snax or pudding! Some frozen berries and a back-up apple in case its needed.

    Everyones advice and thoughts have been appreciated and I’m certainly mulling over the psychology of it all. We humans are complex creatures….

  • posted by Dreamscometrue
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    Thanks all for the advice and support on here so far. I actually dared to get on the scales this morning and was pleasantly surprised to find that I’m back where I was at the beginning of March. There have been various ups and downs since then, but I’m in a better place than I thought. So I will keep plodding, whilst acknowledging that weight loss is not my prime concern right now, I do want to keep on track as far as possible. And, as others have said, eating well give our bodies the best chance of keeping healthy during these difficult times.

    Scottishgal maybe the answer is just not to buy any of those “just in case” chocolates/cakes/biscuits. I know that’s really harsh! I’m speaking to myself here too as my main downfall is wine. If it’s in the house I’ll open it …. “just one glass”. But chocolate as well: I don’t have a particularly sweet tooth but if I start a bar of chocolate I will often go on and finish it. I don’t plan to or want to, but something just seems to take over – and then I feel sick and horrible afterwards.

    WindyJulz, great advice from Wendy above, and also take a look at caronl’s earlier post. It may be the right time for you to cut out carbs but not worry over much about calories – see how that goes?

  • posted by WindyJulz
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    Thanks Dreamscometrue, yes I like the plan to keep carbs low and worry less about calories. I’m back to recorded everything i eat and analysing the info, looking for areas to easily cut back carbs. I am struggling to get my head around the fact my daily apple tends to push me over and take my carbs right up…… as a lot of folk i guess, an apple seems like a light and healthy snack but it is making up 1/4-1/3 of my daily carbs!! I can loose nearly 20g carbs if i pick something else….. and maybe I’m as well saving the apple for ‘pudding’ a baked apple with a bit of cream is perhaps more special than my standard chopped apple with cinamon and greek yogurt?! Interesting.
    I am certainly the same as you, if naughty food is in the house I will eat it….. well certainly if i open it i will eat it, can sometimes just leave it in the cupboard. But if its not here i can mooch round the kitchen all i like and not find it….. and when that happens and veggies or other good snack isnt appealing i know i am not actually hungry.
    Saw a good sign in a fridge the other day – said “you are not hungry – you a bored” – I like this idea!!
    I do have a photo of my little horse on the fridge and food cupboard to remind me why i am doing this.
    Frustratingly i seem to totally get the mental side of this, i just struggle to stay in the right head space for a long period of time…. all i can do is keep climbing back on the wagon!

  • posted by Olive_1
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    Hi WindyJulz and Dreamscometrue,
    my nemesis is chocolate in all forms. Have big difficulty saying no to that. Since starting this WOE in Jan, I have allowed myself a few squares if really dark chocolate on Friday/Saturday night when the family is eating chrisps.
    What I find challenging is that I seem to have an on/off button for the cravings but I have no idea how to control it. I can go for long periods with “cravings off” (like now more or less since Jan) but then something happens and I get out of that mental space an it’s “cravings on” and there is absolutely no stopping it. I will make up silly excuses for myself to get me to a store where I will just “happen” to buy chocolate/cake etc. And this state can go on for a long time as well and seems just impossible to break.
    I so wish I could control this better.
    I know that this WOE is helping to keep the switch off, but too much carbs or too little fat/protein in my food can tip me over. Or if something stressful is happening in life, or even when I’m in a good place mentally that little voice can pop up saying “only one biscuit is ok”, or “everyone else can handle having a bar of chocolate -so can you”.
    I think a reprogramming of the brain is in place, but how to do it.

  • posted by wendleg
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    Morning/evening everyone
    It’s April 1st …yep it really is . A new month in crazy times but we will get through this one and others.
    Scottishal ..get ready I am going to nag you !!! DON’T BUY THE CAKES !!! Cakes are not going to help you when you have an off day !!! They are going to make you feel fed up with yourself. It’s so hard to break down that mind set that sugar /cakes /biscuits are somehow going to offer warm and cuddly comfort and make us feel better . THEY DON’T !! They will set off that infernal blood sugar roller coaster of highs and inevitable dips which leave you sluggish and foggy. That’s not good for you SG.Don’t buy the cakes and biscuits . They are processed junk . Can you choose a higher cocao content than Galaxy ? You might need to get used to the taste but if you need that chocolate hit it is there and you won’t be able to scoff the whole bar ? If you fear you might, get the family to hide your stash !!!
    The stress is getting to you SG and that’ s understandable . Yes, try not to think too far ahead . We can only manage now…this moment. Have you got any outlets for stress ? Can you get out for a walk to clear your head ? Do some gentle exercise ? Try the soothing Qigong or silly dancing ? It means breaking that mindset that only sugar will cut it when you are feeling low. Just keep checking in and we will help , you know that SG. Healthy food will ultimately be what you WANT rather than what you feel you must have to be ‘good’ . If you feel deprived you will grab the cakes because they will constantly be calling out to you..eat me !!! Tell yourself you can have them but in fact you CHOOSE NOT TO . That puts you back in control rather than being controlled.
    Am I being bossy ?
    Come on folks, we can do this ….

  • posted by wendleg
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    Hi Olive ! Yes Julz…recognising true hunger versus an urge to snack is a very helpful skill. Keep the carbs low definitely . I know what you mean about apples.I used to eat kilos of fruit. Berries would be a better choice. I have started sprinkling caraway seeds on yoghurt.I like the taste .I wonder if the smell takes me back to the days when Gripe Water was sold for colicky babies ??

    Yes…identifying the trigger that causes your cravings to take over …Stress ? Boredom ? What kept me on track was that I liked reading about nutrition, the benefits of low carb, quitting sugar etc .I got a bit obsessive about it but the more I read, the more it made sense and convinced me that to be healthy I absolutely had to banish the sugary, processed junk and now those food are honestly repulsive.

    I do believe that the carb blow outs are a result of feeling deprived of these foods.So you can control them for a period of time but they never really lose their appeal. If you tell yourselves they are available , they are not going to disappear off the face of the earth …but you focus on the damage they do to your blood sugar, your slugggish, low moods after the high has passed when you just have to have more……….it could help to take the cuddly shine off those sugary foods ?

    You are doing fine Dreamscometrue and it must feel good to know you did not do too much damage in March. We will continue plodding with you !

  • posted by Bryla
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    Hi everyone. No treats would be safe in my cupboards, either, though I can now accommodate some 85% cocoa dark chocolate in the house without danger. Isn’t it mind bending that an apple can make such a difference?! I think tomatoes were a big adjustment for me. I used to make lots of my own pasta sauces and thought I was being very healthy eating huge tomato-based salads. Now 5 cherry tomatoes are an indulgence! I am still not quite used to not having a big bowl of fruit on the table all the time – that was a symbol of healthy intentions for me all my life.

    I thought I would share my progress so far, according to my BMI weight-tracker app, in case it helps anyone else. I am now 6oz away from my initial target. So that’s 27.6lbs discarded over 82 days. 4 inches off my bust and hips and 6inches from my waist and 2 off my thighs. I have been very strict with myself and it has felt like a real battle at times. Others will achieve much more impressive rates of change (some weeks the scales haven’t moved), I know, but I’m proud of myself. Most importantly for me, I’ve had no debilitating migraines in 3 months (totally unprecedented), really good sleep and a massive reduction in arthritis pain and zero heartburn. It will be the end of 12 weeks for me on Friday, and hopefully that last 6oz might be gone, but in any case I feel I am at the start of a journey, not the end of anything. There is plenty more work to do! I am so grateful to all of you for your companionship and support up to now.

    I would contribute to a mini-goals thread, but I wonder whether keeping everyone and everything in one place would work okay during these strange times?

    Lots of love to everyone.

  • posted by WindyJulz
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    Oh wow Bryla, thats so inspiring! Well done you!! 12 weeks of being strict is a massive achievement! Its what Im aspiring to! So pleased for you.

    Olive – i 100% relate to the cravings on / craving off – that is exactly how i feel. Sometimes I go for a long time without being interested in the ad stuff and completely contended with what I am doing, then a switch goes and all i can think about is cake and chips. I also have no idea what the triggers are or why this happens. I know that looking at food online (what pops up on Facebook or looking up recipes) is not helpful at all. It puts ideas in my head and makes me imagine the tastes, textures etc and that can set off cravings. Must steer clear of such things.
    Reading about low sugar life etc certainly helps with focus, I did that a lot the last time i was travelling and it kept me away from the bad stuff.

  • posted by SunnyB
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    Woohoo Bryla … way to go! 🤸‍♀️🤹‍♀️ Brilliant results and you have every right to be proud of that – no need for comparison to those of others. Your none scales victories are fabulous too and I’m sure you feel rewarded by them daily. You are so right about where those pesky carbs hide out …. sometimes in the most unexpected places.

    Julz, it sounds like you are beginning to identify triggers, which is a huge part of the battle against old habits. And you have an idea for gaining some control too, so you’re definitely on the right track to tackle your cravings.

    Considering the difficult times we are navigating right now, any win no matter how small is still a win, so for now please share mini goals and achieving them here or on the Positives thread. Remember, a goal doesn’t have to be scales related, it could be dropping a cm from your waist measurement, extending your overnight fast or dominating your cravings for 24hrs. As long as it’s relevant and helpful to you, that’s all that matters.

  • posted by holly_v_h
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    Hi all,
    I’m Holly, I’ve dabbled in this diet on and off for a few years now, usually manage to lose a stone or so then give up.
    This time I’m going to try and stick to it and I’m hoping having got my in laws and my husband on board (my in laws are paleo), as we’re all very competitive, we might stick at it better.
    It’s easier in terms of not being able to go out to eat, as I’m totally suggestible when it comes to food 😂 but may be harder in terms of boredom snacking.
    We’ve got lots of the right food and got rid of the wrong food so that will probably help too.
    I’ve got some recipes from here and tried overnight oats this morning, I was pleasantly surprised (but then realised how carb heavy they are – confused as to what they’re doing on the recipes on the forum here? Would love some info on how they are a good shout?)
    Anyway, best of luck to everyone and I hope you’re coping ok with being cooped up 🙂
    Holly

  • posted by SunnyB
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    Welcome Holly, it sounds like you are determined and have prepped ready to make a good start.
    The whole oats thing is a puzzle to me too. Some people seem to be able to hang on to these and still see loss, for me they are way too carb heavy and not something I would personally consider including. But it’s horses for courses, I know that if I want to see weight loss, so need to be around 20g carbs a day, whilst others can be successful at 50g or even around 100g.
    Having done the BSD before, you probably know the catb level you need to be at, so if that has been upset by the oats today, ust chalk it up to experience and make a note not to have them in future.
    We’ll look forward to reading about your progress and best wishes to those in your family on this quest.

  • posted by holly_v_h
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    Thanks SunnyB in 🙂 I prepped another one for tomorrow’s breakfast so I’ll eat that as I hate waste but after that maybe I won’t do the overnight oats. Or perhaps with less oats & more yoghurt!
    I was really surprised but at least now I know 😂
    I really think having my husband on board will make a difference, we are bad influences on each other but if we’re in competition it will help – I hope!
    Good luck to everyone on here 🙂

  • posted by wendleg
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    Hi Holly

    I have seen breakfasts made with chia seeds and berries rather than oats. I have always avoided oats ..linseeds, chia , sunflower and pumpkin seeds are my go to.

    Caronl mentioned the dietdoctor website which is very informative and has an extensive recipe section. A lot of their breakfasts include eggs . What about Greek yoghurt with chia jam ?
    I found this recipe
    https://www.gnom-gnom.com/overnight-keto-chia-pudding/
    All the vey best to you

  • posted by wendleg
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    Well done Bryla !! Really pleased for you. Love your commitment and determination ! You should most definitely be proud of yourself.
    It’s fantastic that your migraines and arthritic pain are easing too, brilliant !
    You are an inspiration to anyone struggling or just starting out right now xx

  • posted by Quetzal
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    Hello everyone – thanks for inviting me SunnyB.
    I started yesterday – first time for real. Second day today. I have realistic longterm and short term goal, I think. Headache started today. I must admit that I am kind of happy with what I did yesterday – when I got some really bad news about my job during these times: I went for a superlong walk and ate nothing in addition to what I had planned. (I would typically had done that before I decided to do this properly). Felt good to have control – and think that I am doing something really good to myself when something bad is going on. I slept really bad, but probably had too much to think about. Everyone: good to read about your thoughts, ideas, suggestions and experiences. I think I need a daily dose of that. Planning on another long walk later today.

  • posted by wendleg
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    How is everyone doing today ?
    Today was another BIG POT OF GREEN SOUP DAY !!
    I spent the morning reconnecting with my pupils on the phone and most were coping well (apart from one lad who had only just got up ..it was midday !!! )
    We are supposed to be ‘on holiday’ for 2 weeks starting this weekend so I might have a break from putting work on line to give kids a brief respite, and me too. I can get ahead a bit with my preparations so I am ready for the onslaught when we resume distance teaching.
    I am loving my QICONG morning routine which keeps me grounded.

    Oh yes….and a book I wanted to recommend for anyone struggling right now
    How to Have Your Cake and Your Skinny Jeans Too : Stop Binge Eating, Overeating and Dieting for Good, Get the Naturally Thin Body You Crave from the Inside Out : Josie Spinardi

    I even found a video which summarizes the main points.
    I think it has some useful insight if you are really feeling out of control. It says that diets don’ t work and does not advocate calorie counting, relying on Hunger Directed Eating etc,and the diminishing appeal of carby treats as you refuse to feel restricted and constrained. IE you can have them if you want but you are more likely to choose NOT TO as you work your way through the principles. I really did relate to wanting healthy food rather than a donut 😉
    Some of the ideas might seem a bit scary for anyone who has been used to restricting certain foods, and fearing the outcome if they are “allowed” but it is explained very well, and sympathetically.
    I think if you have a considerable amount of weight to discard it could take a while before you get results but the ideas are interesting. I remember it was an easy read and the author talks from personal experience. This is the video where a young girl describes her experience :

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvDTuhNapbQ

    This is no way negates our BSD program which I don’t see as a DIET. It is my way of eating for life. Staying low carb, eating healthy fats and lots of veg , balancing blood sugar etc is the only thing that has ever worked for me and I don’t get cravings. I have a total aversion to sugar laden processed junk foods as you know 😉 I don’t focus so much on calorie counting and weighing these days but I am a long way down the BSD road.
    I just wanted to give you some hope. Even if the ultimate goals seem insurmountable , you can get there. Be patient, stay kind to yourselves but keep good health as your main objective.

  • posted by wendleg
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    Hi Quetzal !
    So sorry to hear you got bad news about your job but well done on coping and staying posiitve. You are absolutely right to concentrate on your health and well being right now. It’s understandable that you are not sleeping well. Qigong and meditation really help me to switch off, wind down and feel grounded when we are bombarded with news.

    All the best to you xxx

  • posted by arcticfox
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    Bryla – well done, that is a massive discard!
    Holly – I used to eat overnight oats for breakfast. I had them for years, and now looking back I do think they contributed to my trouble with maintaining my weight. I managed to maintain when I was doing huge amounts of sport, but even then it was a struggle, so unfortunately when I slowed down somewhat, the weight just piled on. Some do manage to eat them though. I found that if I switched to oat bran, that helped a bit. Now I eat a chia flax porridge instead, or sometimes a chia pudding with greek yogurt and coconut milk. It is a bit like tapioca.
    Just checking in everyone. I hadn’t weighed in for ages, but got brave enough to step on the scales this morning. I have been eating close to plan and mostly 2MAD, and wasn’t feeling like I had gained a lot if anything, so wanted to see if that was the case. Turns out I’ve registed a bit of a discard. I’m down to 89.7kg!! That’s 0.4 kg down from my last weigh-in, and checking back, I only weighed in at 90.1kg after a 36hr fast. So it appears I’ve discarded what is a fair bit for me just by sticking to plan. I am thrilled to be under 90 kg finally. Next goal is to get under 88kg, which is the maximum weight for a lot of riding holiday places. Of course, I won’t be going on holiday for some time now, but that just means I’ll be even lighter when the time does come.
    Wendy – following your nettle crisps with interest. I’ll have to have a look to see if ours are out yet. It has been a much colder than normal spring here so far. I used to use nettle in place of kale or other greens in soups and stews when I lived in Norway. Good for people like me with low iron levels!

  • posted by wendleg
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    Great news articfox and very encouraging to be in the new number bracket ! Well done on your continued detemination !
    I use nettles like spinach or chard, wilting the leaves with a bit of butter or olive oil,or added to my green soups..

    Nettle crisps..I just add the leaves to a bowl with a mixture of olive oil, chili flakes and nutritional yeast. I do my best to coat all the leaves using a pair of spaghetti servers but a couple of spoons would do .I keep protective gloves on . I trim the thick stalks but the thin ones are ok left on.
    Then I spread the leaves out in a roasting tin and bake them for about 10 mins at 130 °
    I open the oven door to mix them round a bit but you can’t really go wrong.
    They are delicious ..not as stong tasting as kale crisps and the nutritional yeast gives them a tasty cheesy flavour and the chili imparts a good hit .
    Noone or nothing wees on my garden nettles so I feel they are pretty safe !!

  • posted by Bryla
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    Hi folks! Great going ArcticFox!!!👏 Thanks for the congrats, everyone. I really have taken it one day at a time- hope I can stay focused and help others to believe in the possibilities too. Just for interest, I have kept my carbs at 20g or below for 12 weeks, apart from a few days of maybe 22 or 23 max. I have no idea whether that’s my personal limit or not. I’ll be experimenting a bit in future, but I saw no reason not to throw the kitchen sink at this! At first I thought 20g was going to be impossible and/or hell, but I adjusted so quickly and I have no particular urge to up my carbs for any reason other than curiosity.

    Welcome Holly and Quetzal! You both sound well-prepared and well-informed. There are lots of lovely people here to help keep you on track and celebrate your success with you.

    Wendleg- that book sounds very interesting. I will definitely put it on my reading list. I love the idea of intuitive eating and I’m hoping that might become relevant to me. For the time being I am still learning what real hunger is and to tell the difference between intuition and lifelong habits. I think without this radical and committed change, I would never have been able to hear what my body actually needs over the horrible, loud and obnoxious carb monster(sibling of the ginger biscuit monster) yelling constantly. I can’t hear them any more, but it has taken 12 weeks to get here, so I’m not confident yet.

    Planning to check out some QiGong tomorrow. Can’t wait to see what the dog thinks. She gets quite involved (not always helpfully) with yoga.

    Wendleg, is the halloumi and spinach curry recipe you use one of the recipes on this site? Have googled and seen a few that didn’t look too BSD-friendly.

    Lots of love to everyone.

  • posted by wendleg
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    Hi Bryla !
    Just a quickie before I turn in. My halloumi and spinach curry is just basically a base of softened onions with a spice mix ( turmeric, coriander, cumin and fresh ginger) with water. The recipe has a few cherry tomatoes too. I then add in the spinach in batches to wilt it and then add the diced halloumi previously browned in a pan.
    I am not as strict as you with the carb total these days and I think the tomatoes would ramp it up a bit but it’s healthy and tasty and lasts for several days. Sorry I haven’t been precise about amounts. I can look up the recipe if you want the exact quantities.
    I think I came across the recipe on line, not on the site.

    Nighty night everyone. I will be back tomorrow xx

  • posted by holly_v_h
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    Happy Friday people!
    I got told yesterday that as of Monday we are furloughed for three weeks at 80% pay.
    However there is good news in that I have apparently lost 3kg since Monday.
    Now I know this is just water weight since I have done this before and usually have a high weight loss in the first week or two which then slows down, but I’m still really pleased with myself. I think I might win this Saturday when my husband, in-laws and myself compare losses! Definitely a step in the right direction.
    Hope you’re all ok – I have a LOT of work to do today before going off for three weeks and then I’m free!! Except stuck in the house 😂

  • posted by Bryla
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    Thanks so much, Wendleg! I don’t need a recipe or precise amounts- I’ve got the idea now. I will get some halloumi on my next shop and give it a whirl. I’m going to relax carb restrictions a bit now and see what happens, so I’m not worried about the tomatoes.

    Sorry to hear about your furlough, Holly, but hopefully it at least gives you some certainty about the next few weeks. 3kg is fab! Who cares what the discard is made up of. We always seem to discount that water weight going, but it is the foundation for everything that comes after and a sign our bodies are responding to the woe. Well done!

    Hope everyone has a good day. The sun is trying to fight through in my neck of the woods, which is giving me a much needed lift in spirits

  • posted by WindyJulz
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    Chuffed for you Arcticfox, that must be a fair bit of a pick me up for you, good work on the sticking to plan and the courage to stand on the scales…. I’m putting that off a bit longer!!

    Quetzal, well done for making it here and to having a couple of good nutrition days despite difficult times. Long walks in the wood sounds very therapeutic and what a great time of year to be doing it too. Spring is beautiful.

    Bryla, 12 weeks solid with such low carbs is awesome! Great mentality to hahve sustained that and great motivation that you settled to it and havent felt as if youve been really hard done to!

    Ive had a really solid 2 days and feel good for it. Yesterday was a busy day with work and a trip to Asda. I was struggling for work focus quite a bit, its been a rough few weeks, but i still have work and we have a great leadership team so cant complain. Asda was ‘different’…. following a one way system was both hilarious and frustrating, i did a fair few circuits as I was shopping for both us and my dad.
    Interesting the switch has flicked to “cravings-off” – dad’s shopping list finished with chocolate (large bar cadbury’s whole nut), ginger biscuits, chips and cake! I hadnt eaten, was mildly hungry and I just bought his requirements without feeling any pangs of jealousy, no inclination to find something for myself, didnt even look at the dark chocolate section and persuade myself that would be ok. I just bought our veggies, meat, butter, cream, tuna and yogurt….. no anxiety, stress or anything – this is new – food anxiety i have come to realise is a very real thing. I think Wendy’s wise words and the bit of mediation i have done seems to have made a difference. Hopefully the switch remains at off and if it flicks back to on i know where to come!

    Wishing you all a positive Friday. Another step forward and a step closer to our goals and the end of this virus chaos (no matter how long it lasts, we are closer to the end than we were yesterday).
    🙂

  • posted by WindyJulz
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    Holly – posted at the same time – well done on the 3kgs and echo what Bryla said – definitely a good step in the right direction. Sorry about the furlough, we are doing the same at our work, its stressful. But its certainly not a reflection on you, it is to protect jobs and to provide ‘income’ to otherwise struggling businesses, it is a good thing, try to see it as that. It is keeping your job safe until we are out the other side of this. Try to enjoy the time off with absolutely zero guilt that you arent working!!

  • posted by Quetzal
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    Day 3 – and no head-ache, I actually feel somewhat happier, looking forward to meet small goals – heading towards the main goal: healthier body with normal BMI – a looooong way to go! Still feeling hungry, but enjoyed feta-cheese and salad for lunch – and other BSD-friendly meals and it seems to pass longer and longer after each meal, hopefully a little better tomorrow. Would be so nice not to feel hungry and eat by the clock – if ever possible. Have stocked up with greek yoghurt, eggs, cheeses, salmon, vegetables, replaced red pepper with green, walnuts, lentils – and really good olive oil. But when I came home from work, the kids (primary school) had made pizza and were so excited to see mee enjoy it (homeschool makes them help out more) – and I had two tinytiny pieces. Ate it superslowly. No urge to have more. WindyJulz- I am impressed with you – well done – must feel so good to be able to just know that that stuff is no good for you – and not be tempted. Holly – 3 kg is superb, I am looking forward to your next week result! I have to share the simplest and best salad (so cheap and easy: slice half a cabbage with a cheese slicer, add two table spoons olive oil, some pepper, a little salt and juice of a lime – toss it – put in fridge – perfect with everything or alone).
    Everyone – have a wonderful weekend!

  • posted by wendleg
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    Hi everyone ! I ‘m not far away, just had to catch up a bit with family, and some down time in the garden. More lovely green veggies arrived from the farm yesterday so I am overjoyed. People here are bemoaning the lack of flour and yeast in the shops..not me 😉
    I only managed one 36 hour fast this week but that’s ok.

    Hope everyone is ok. The weekend is normally a quiet time on the thread but these days there seems to be little distinction, days seem to run into each other.
    I hope you are coping, it’s tough I know . Let us know how you are doing

    Lots of love xxx

  • posted by Bryla
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    Hello everyone!

    Great going, Quetzal. Sounds like you’ve got such a pragmatic approach. I think most people find that they experience less hunger quite quickly as their bodies adjust, but we’re all different. If you do suffer with any more headaches, it’s usually worth getting a bit of extra salt in. Works for me every time.

    Flour has been in short supply here too, Wendy. I don’t need it, but have been trying to get some for my parents for a couple of weeks. Succeeded yesterday! There’s definitely more stock generally in my local supermarket now, which I find quite uplifting.

    Weighed myself this morning on first day of week 13. The last bit of my initial discard goal has shifted, with an extra 1/2 pound bonus. Hooray! It feels great. If anyone is feeling impatient about progress, just hang in there. It does come, just not necessarily to our preferred schedule every time. I don’t think I’ve been this weight/size for nearly 20 years. I had forgotten that I am quite a petite person (frame rather than height- that’s pretty average).

    I now want to give some serious thought to where I take this all next. I was thinking about maintenance already a few weeks back, but didn’t really follow through. I’ve been eating maybe 50 cals extra most days for a little while. Before our normal lives went on pause, I had decided to do more strength work at the gym with a view to building some more muscle and definition. I still want to do that, so I’ll have to get more creative at home. I think there is still a couple of pounds of fat around my middle that doesn’t belong there, but I don’t want to overshoot. The aim is to be healthy, not stick thin! I’ve had a look at TDE and maintenance calories and can’t get my head around the idea that every measure seems to suggest I could/should eventually eat double the 800 for maintenance! I think I need to do a lot more homework to really understand how to proceed. I have kept my protein to around 45g, but I think I can/should up that a bit. Not expecting anyone to offer answers, just thinking out loud.

    Lots of love and positive thoughts to everyone!

    Wondering how PhoenixB is getting on…

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