Thursday, February 24, 2011
Friday, February 18, 2011
Friday, February 11, 2011
Friday, February 4, 2011
The Big Bad Doctor Visit :-O
I just got home from the Doctor. I went because of my cold... my lungs were feeling so tight, it was hard to breathe. So she gave me a breathing treatment with Albuteral and oh my gosh! I started feeling better... like, I could breathe again... but it made me super jittery. My hands were shaking and my legs felt like jell-o. Plus, it instantly upset my tummy. I had to rush home to get to the bathroom. ICK!
Backing up a bit, the idiot M.A. came in and asked me the typical questions before seeing a Doctor. "Do you have high blood pressure? Cholesterol issues? Allergies to medications?" etc. She asked what medications I was on and I told her Metformin, 1000 mg, two times a day. She then asked me which finger I wanted her to prick. My response was "uhhhhhhh...... why???" She goes "oh, you're diabetic, right? Yunno, since you're on Metformin."
"No, I'm not diabetic. That's for my PCOS". And then.... she says....
"Oooooh, I didn't know you could take Metformin for PCOS." Whaaaaaaaaaaat?!?!!?!?! That was totally reassuring.... NOT!!!
Anyway, so the Doctor came in and she was awesome! I think I may have finally found a Doctor (well, nurse practitioner, actually!) that I actually like. She thoroughly examined me. She asked me a lot of related questions. And vuah-lah... I got a breathing treatment, medication and some good ol' mucinex to help! She asked if I had anything else I wanted to talk about.
Actually, as a matter of fact... I DO! I talked to her about my weight, my PCOS, and my plantar fasciitis/heel spurs. Regarding my weight, she is having me do a full blood workup and EKG first but then, if all is OK, she'd like to put me on a prescription weight loss pill. I think she said it's Phentermine or something like that.
Have any of you gone on prescription weight loss pills? Any pros and/or cons to share? I never even knew there were prescription weight loss pills.
I'm not too sure how I feel about weight loss pills. I believe in good ol' fashioned hard work. But then again, look at where it's gotten me. I mean, obviously I haven't given 100% of myself 100% of the time... but maybe the pills might help get a small chunk of me gone and then I can just do hard work.
After the weight talk, we talked about my feet. She ordered x-rays for me. This time I will actually go! She is also going to try getting physical therapy covered by my insurance so I can work through some of this pain. Please, God, oh PLEASE let it be covered!!!!
And then, the whopper of all whoppers.... at the very end, after my breathing treatment, little miss "I don't know what I'm talking about" M.A. came in and said "I'm sorry to have to tell you this, but the Doctor wants me to check your blood sugar level so I'm gonna have to prick your finger." I was like "really? Do we have to? I just ate. Will that make a difference? I don't like needles... please not my finger. Can't we do it on my arm? I'll come back and do it later." I tried so hard to get out of it. She just kept rolling her eyes at me.
I have done medical assisting school and have taken dozens of needles to several different parts of my body by some really inexperienced people. I'm so used to needles... they don't bother me much anymore. Yet, somehow the idea of a needle on my finger scared me. But honestly, I think it was more the idea about "diabetes" and "blood sugar" stuff that freaked me out. So anyway...
PRICK....
It was over quickly! It stung but it wasn't that bad. She said my blood sugar was 97. I have no idea if that is good or not but from what I was able to find, thanks to my good pal GOOGLE, that is a normal number. Right? Anyway, she said I am definitely not diabetic... THANK YOU JESUS!!!! However, it really got me thinking, I do not wanna be diabetic... ever! I never want to have to prick my finger or give myself shots. Especially not every day. I have to get healthy. I refuse to eat myself into an early grave. Oh my gosh, y'all. I am definitely scared now! That is so not the life I want to live. NO WAY!
Backing up a bit, the idiot M.A. came in and asked me the typical questions before seeing a Doctor. "Do you have high blood pressure? Cholesterol issues? Allergies to medications?" etc. She asked what medications I was on and I told her Metformin, 1000 mg, two times a day. She then asked me which finger I wanted her to prick. My response was "uhhhhhhh...... why???" She goes "oh, you're diabetic, right? Yunno, since you're on Metformin."
"No, I'm not diabetic. That's for my PCOS". And then.... she says....
"Oooooh, I didn't know you could take Metformin for PCOS." Whaaaaaaaaaaat?!?!!?!?! That was totally reassuring.... NOT!!!
Anyway, so the Doctor came in and she was awesome! I think I may have finally found a Doctor (well, nurse practitioner, actually!) that I actually like. She thoroughly examined me. She asked me a lot of related questions. And vuah-lah... I got a breathing treatment, medication and some good ol' mucinex to help! She asked if I had anything else I wanted to talk about.
Actually, as a matter of fact... I DO! I talked to her about my weight, my PCOS, and my plantar fasciitis/heel spurs. Regarding my weight, she is having me do a full blood workup and EKG first but then, if all is OK, she'd like to put me on a prescription weight loss pill. I think she said it's Phentermine or something like that.
Have any of you gone on prescription weight loss pills? Any pros and/or cons to share? I never even knew there were prescription weight loss pills.
I'm not too sure how I feel about weight loss pills. I believe in good ol' fashioned hard work. But then again, look at where it's gotten me. I mean, obviously I haven't given 100% of myself 100% of the time... but maybe the pills might help get a small chunk of me gone and then I can just do hard work.
After the weight talk, we talked about my feet. She ordered x-rays for me. This time I will actually go! She is also going to try getting physical therapy covered by my insurance so I can work through some of this pain. Please, God, oh PLEASE let it be covered!!!!
And then, the whopper of all whoppers.... at the very end, after my breathing treatment, little miss "I don't know what I'm talking about" M.A. came in and said "I'm sorry to have to tell you this, but the Doctor wants me to check your blood sugar level so I'm gonna have to prick your finger." I was like "really? Do we have to? I just ate. Will that make a difference? I don't like needles... please not my finger. Can't we do it on my arm? I'll come back and do it later." I tried so hard to get out of it. She just kept rolling her eyes at me.
I have done medical assisting school and have taken dozens of needles to several different parts of my body by some really inexperienced people. I'm so used to needles... they don't bother me much anymore. Yet, somehow the idea of a needle on my finger scared me. But honestly, I think it was more the idea about "diabetes" and "blood sugar" stuff that freaked me out. So anyway...
PRICK....
It was over quickly! It stung but it wasn't that bad. She said my blood sugar was 97. I have no idea if that is good or not but from what I was able to find, thanks to my good pal GOOGLE, that is a normal number. Right? Anyway, she said I am definitely not diabetic... THANK YOU JESUS!!!! However, it really got me thinking, I do not wanna be diabetic... ever! I never want to have to prick my finger or give myself shots. Especially not every day. I have to get healthy. I refuse to eat myself into an early grave. Oh my gosh, y'all. I am definitely scared now! That is so not the life I want to live. NO WAY!
VLOG: Sick Day & "Made To Crave"
I'm home sick today. Boo! I have spent way too much time with my snotty-nosed 5-year-old friends, I guess. But it's worth it... I sure love those kiddos! But anyway, I'm kinda happy to have a BLAH day because I get to stay on the couch with my fluffy pillows and warm fuzzy PINK blanket... and READ!
I rented some movies but I think I am gonna read some first... my new favorite book, of course. MADE TO CRAVE by Lysa TerKuerst... oh my gosh! Such an eye-opener for me. To realize I was made to crave God, and not food... wow! That's an amazing gift of such powerful knowledge. So anyway, have a great weekend!
I rented some movies but I think I am gonna read some first... my new favorite book, of course. MADE TO CRAVE by Lysa TerKuerst... oh my gosh! Such an eye-opener for me. To realize I was made to crave God, and not food... wow! That's an amazing gift of such powerful knowledge. So anyway, have a great weekend!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Quick Update & "Special Guest"
I have a quick update... I'm down 0.6 lbs for the week. Not much but considering my emotional week, I'll take it. Oh, and I had a special guest appearance while I was recording my VLog! It's quite funny if I do say so myself! Enjoy! :-)
Saturday, January 29, 2011
The Power of Zzzzzz's & Post Meltdown Recap
I'm still recovering from my shopping meltdown the other day. In the process of researching articles and information (this is how I cope!) to offer encouragement, I came across this little excerpt from one of my very most favorite people on the planet, Michael Scholtz:
This, of course, got me thinking. Getting enough sleep has been a big focus of mine during this year of fitness thus far... but I haven't really considered the quality of sleep I've been getting. Sometimes I leave the music on. Often I'm surfing the internet or watching some sort of movie before bed. So even though I may go to bed, as in lying down in my bed, around 9 or 10 pm, I'm not usually falling asleep until closer to midnight. Sometimes I drink tea or take a shower before bed which helps. But then again, sometimes I workout before bed... supposedly good for the body but after reading this article, now I understand why it makes it harder for me to fall asleep after that. And then waking up around 6 am means I'm not actually getting the sleep I need. I am definitely going to be more aware of that now.
How about you? Do you get enough sleep? Do you get quality sleep? What are your bedtime/sleep routines and habits? Feel free to share... I might learn something from you!
On the topic of my shopping day meltdown, thank you all for your comments. (Ben and Shannon, I can't seem to open your blogs. I'd like to be able to follow you... can you post or email me the link to your blog, please?) The shopping trip was completely overwhelming for me and as you all know, I left totally discouraged. But today I understand that's just something I have to get over. I got myself to this point and the only way it's going to get better is if I stay focused and get this friggin' weight off. It's going to be a long journey... not a couple month gig like The Biggest Loser contestants... but I'm worth it! I know that!
I looked alright at my sisters party. There were a couple cute dudes there so I was a bit embarrassed at times, but I just tried to keep focusing on her which totally distracted me. I'm giving myself this year to focus completely on me. I'm not going to worry about dating or fashion or those kinds of things. This year, I may spend the entire year in workout clothes, but not just because of my size... because it will keep me motivated to keep active. If I can stick with it this entire year, I know the rest of the things I want in life will fall into place! So, one month down, eleven more to go! :-)
10 Ways To Get Quality Sleep
Research is finding that those who get 7-9 hours of sleep are thinner than those who get less than 7. There are many theories why this may be true. One theory is that less sleep impairs glucose and insulin metabolism making weight more difficult to lose. Another is that inadequate sleep may slow the metabolism by lowering levels of thyroid- stimulating hormone. Another is that not getting enough sleep increases cortisol levels, a stress hormone that can affect appetite and metabolism. Yet another theory is that inadequate sleep has been shown to lower levels of the hormone leptin (this hormone signals fullness) and increase levels of ghrelin (this hormone signals hunger).
In addition to getting 7-9 hours of sleep, I recommend that you focus on QUALITY sleep. Here are ten ways to get a better quality sleep:
1. Go to bed well hydrated (drink plenty of water during the afternoon and early evening)
2. Avoiding bright lights in the evening (bright light interferes with melatonin production which is a hormone we produce that helps us sleep).
3. Avoid eating 2 hours before going to sleep if possible
4. Use white noise, like a fan, to mute out background noises to keep you at a deeper sleep level.
5. Make your bedroom as dark as possible
6. Have exercised that day but not in the evening
7. Avoid stressful things like paying bills or watching scary movies right before bed
8. Try chamomile tea or other non-caffeinated hot beverage in the evening.
9. Take a bath or shower. Light candles if taking a bath is relaxing for you.
10. Stretch or do yoga an hour before bed.
--Michael Scholtz, MA, Biggest Loser Club fitness expert
This, of course, got me thinking. Getting enough sleep has been a big focus of mine during this year of fitness thus far... but I haven't really considered the quality of sleep I've been getting. Sometimes I leave the music on. Often I'm surfing the internet or watching some sort of movie before bed. So even though I may go to bed, as in lying down in my bed, around 9 or 10 pm, I'm not usually falling asleep until closer to midnight. Sometimes I drink tea or take a shower before bed which helps. But then again, sometimes I workout before bed... supposedly good for the body but after reading this article, now I understand why it makes it harder for me to fall asleep after that. And then waking up around 6 am means I'm not actually getting the sleep I need. I am definitely going to be more aware of that now.
How about you? Do you get enough sleep? Do you get quality sleep? What are your bedtime/sleep routines and habits? Feel free to share... I might learn something from you!
On the topic of my shopping day meltdown, thank you all for your comments. (Ben and Shannon, I can't seem to open your blogs. I'd like to be able to follow you... can you post or email me the link to your blog, please?) The shopping trip was completely overwhelming for me and as you all know, I left totally discouraged. But today I understand that's just something I have to get over. I got myself to this point and the only way it's going to get better is if I stay focused and get this friggin' weight off. It's going to be a long journey... not a couple month gig like The Biggest Loser contestants... but I'm worth it! I know that!
I looked alright at my sisters party. There were a couple cute dudes there so I was a bit embarrassed at times, but I just tried to keep focusing on her which totally distracted me. I'm giving myself this year to focus completely on me. I'm not going to worry about dating or fashion or those kinds of things. This year, I may spend the entire year in workout clothes, but not just because of my size... because it will keep me motivated to keep active. If I can stick with it this entire year, I know the rest of the things I want in life will fall into place! So, one month down, eleven more to go! :-)
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Too Fat 4 The FAT GIRL Stores
Today I discovered I'm too fat for the "fat girl" stores. Well, at least Fashion Bug. I have shopped there for my entire adult/fat girl life. I was blessed with an opportunity to do some shopping today and after an hour of trying on clothes (and I change fast, so that's a lot of clothes) the only things that fit me and/or looked "ok" on me were workout clothes. I'm feeling totally discouraged right now...
Like I said, I know the only thing between me and my dreams is ME. I know that. Normally I would turn to food for comfort but I know that doesn't do anything but add more weight to this already SUPER FAT body of mine so I'm staying far away from food. I have to go to a girls night tonight but when I get home, I'll be exercising. And after my 6 hour field-trip at the zoo tomorrow (lots of walking for me!!), I'll come home and exercise some more. And after the completely humiliating party tomorrow night where everyone else will be dressed up and I'll be in my stretchy FAT GIRL workout clothes, I'll come home and workout some more. I have to get out of this fat girl body... I seriously can't stand it anymore!
Please, God, take all the fat away.... make me healthy again!!!
Like I said, I know the only thing between me and my dreams is ME. I know that. Normally I would turn to food for comfort but I know that doesn't do anything but add more weight to this already SUPER FAT body of mine so I'm staying far away from food. I have to go to a girls night tonight but when I get home, I'll be exercising. And after my 6 hour field-trip at the zoo tomorrow (lots of walking for me!!), I'll come home and exercise some more. And after the completely humiliating party tomorrow night where everyone else will be dressed up and I'll be in my stretchy FAT GIRL workout clothes, I'll come home and workout some more. I have to get out of this fat girl body... I seriously can't stand it anymore!
Please, God, take all the fat away.... make me healthy again!!!
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Tonight's Weigh In
I was at my parents' house tonight and decided to weigh in. I wasn't expecting much since I'm bloated and fighting with my monthly visitor. *Sigh* So anyway, I got on the scale and it really upset me because the numbers kept changing. Here's what they said: 319, 315, 316.8, 318.2, 315.6, 318.6, 316.2... what the heck?!?!? So, just to be safe, I'm going with the highest number which means...
I am so excited. I really watched what I was eating this week and made sure I got plenty of exercise, water and SLEEP! And, well, I guess I did good! YAY ME! :-)
Not only did I lose 5 lbs, but now I get my first "reward" for hitting that 10 lb (overall) mark. I get to go buy myself a lip gloss as a reward!!!! Hmm... which color? A neutral or a pretty color? Sparkly or matte? Regular or long-lasting? So many choices... but I love it! Here's to another great week of hard work and success on the scale!
I lost 5 lbs this week!!!!
I am so excited. I really watched what I was eating this week and made sure I got plenty of exercise, water and SLEEP! And, well, I guess I did good! YAY ME! :-)
Not only did I lose 5 lbs, but now I get my first "reward" for hitting that 10 lb (overall) mark. I get to go buy myself a lip gloss as a reward!!!! Hmm... which color? A neutral or a pretty color? Sparkly or matte? Regular or long-lasting? So many choices... but I love it! Here's to another great week of hard work and success on the scale!
Dream It. Create It. Become It.
I found this article on Katie J's blog and had to share. What a great idea this is! And you can bet Shorty and I will be working on our dream boards this week! I'll post pix when they're done.
Have you heard of a Dream Board? Also known as a “Vision Board” or “Treasure Map,” it’s a fun and creative step in your life or professional planning process. It is your unique visual blueprint of things you want in your life, or dreams that you want to come true.
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| Sample from Katie J's blog. |
The idea behind this inventive project is that whatever we think about or focus on, we can bring into our lives. If we put good things in front of us, high goals we’ve aspired to meeting, or even objects we have always wanted, we will attract them. Having a Dream Board helps you to clarify and focus on your dreams, then make them your reality!
Give yourself a moment to think of whatever it is you want in your personal or business life. Write your goals down, visualize, and affirm them. When dreams are to put in front of you, they flourish, and serve as a constant reminder of what you want to achieve.
Supplies You’ll Need:
- Poster board/oak tag
- Thumbtacks
- Glue
- Tape
- Glitter
- A photo or photos of yourself
- Magazines
- Ribbons
- Pens, markers
- Shells, leaves, or something from nature
- Scissors: straight edge and/or your favorite border design
- Crayons or colored pencils
- Few pieces of thick 8 1/2 x 11 paper
- Favorite rubber stamps.
- Anything else that calls to you!
7 Steps to Bringing your Dream Board to Life:
1. Start with your blank poster board, oak tag, or cork board.
2. In the center of your board put a picture of yourself that you really enjoy. If you are spiritual or religious, also place items that represent this above your picture.
3. Cut out pictures and words that symbolize your dreams; or draw pictures. Can’t draw perfectly? Try it anyway! (If I can, you can.) Put words, quotes, or captions under the pictures.
4. Bring all your dreams to your board. Here are the areas to consider as you create your board. Remember to be very specific and descriptive!
A. Life Vision Board: Personal Growth, Religious/Spiritual Growth, Relationships Family, Romance, Friends, Career & Business, Finance & Money, Play & Recreation, Health & Fitness, Physical Environment, etc.
B. Business Vision Board: Your Office, Staff, Bank Account, Client Results, Products, Retirement, Accolades, Philanthropy Efforts, etc
5. Go for it!! Enjoy it!! Have fun with it!!
6. Tack it on the wall. As your dreams continue to grow (or change), keep adding to it.
7. Spend a few moments in front of it before you start your day, and make it the last thing you look at before you go to sleep!
Consider:
- Getting the whole family creating dream boards or create a family board! Learn more here
- Creating a business or career dream board.
Keep in mind that as you bring your dreams to action, doors will open in many directions, not all of which suit your ultimate goal. You may find some things you should say “no” to, or come across unexpected terrific alternatives that you hadn’t imagined. It’s important to watch out for what the world brings us, signs of its plans, and the possibility of better things. So start dreaming!
Special thanks to my first coach Edie Peirera-Hulbert, author Susan Ban Breathnach, and the 4T Prosperity Program at Unity Church for teaching about these concepts and helping me put them into good use.
This article was first published in 2000. Since then Mark Victor Hansen has done a PBS special that included information on Vision Boards — same thing as a dream board. Also this software was created for Business Owners/Professionals or for MLM’s and helps you create a miniature version of a dream board, small enough to carry around.
© 2010 Elevating Your Business. Maria Marsala helps remarkable women CEOs get a life and future from their business by providing accountability, support and a (gentle) kick in the a$$ when needed. Quickly learn which areas of your business scream for your immediate attention and which areas deserve a hurrah! Take our Business Checkup today at www.CoachMaria.com
Sunday, January 23, 2011
So we're in between shopping trips right now and without a car, I'm having to get creative with what we have at home. While today's food isn't exactly what I wanted, I made the best of the situation and... yah. That's it.
My parents are picking us up tonight (that it, unless we decide to walk over there... 2.5 miles) for our regularly scheduled "family night" where we'll be making our own "mini-pizzas" on whole grain flat-bread. So obviously, I haven't had dinner yet but I'm including that in my totals for the day since I already know what I'll be eating!
FOOD:
Breakfast - 1 oz. tortilla chips, 1/4 c. 2% cheese, 2 T. salsa, 1 T. light sour cream = 256 calories
Lunch - 2/3 c. soy meat, 1/2 c. 2% cheese, 3 T. salsa, 2 T. light sour cream, 4 white corn tortillas = 576 calories
Snack - Special K protein bar = 180 calories
Dinner - Whole grain flat-bread, 1/8 c. pizza sauce, 1/4 2% cheese, 1/2 c. broccoli, 2 c. salad, 2 tbsp. low sodium balsamic vinaigrette dressing, 12 croutons = 355 calories
My parents are picking us up tonight (that it, unless we decide to walk over there... 2.5 miles) for our regularly scheduled "family night" where we'll be making our own "mini-pizzas" on whole grain flat-bread. So obviously, I haven't had dinner yet but I'm including that in my totals for the day since I already know what I'll be eating!
FOOD:
Breakfast - 1 oz. tortilla chips, 1/4 c. 2% cheese, 2 T. salsa, 1 T. light sour cream = 256 calories
Lunch - 2/3 c. soy meat, 1/2 c. 2% cheese, 3 T. salsa, 2 T. light sour cream, 4 white corn tortillas = 576 calories
Snack - Special K protein bar = 180 calories
Dinner - Whole grain flat-bread, 1/8 c. pizza sauce, 1/4 2% cheese, 1/2 c. broccoli, 2 c. salad, 2 tbsp. low sodium balsamic vinaigrette dressing, 12 croutons = 355 calories
Total Calories Consumed: 1,367
Having said that, I see I need a few more calories... mostly protein. I may have an apple with peanut butter (roughly 250 calories) at some point if I am hungry. Otherwise, I'll take the low-calorie day! I didn't have an intense workout today so that should balance me out just fine!
EXERCISE:
20 minutes crazy dancing with Shorty (man that was fun! Lots of sweat, but FUN!)
3-mile walk
3-mile walk
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Our Hit-And-Run "Accident"
Oh-my-gosh! I cannot believe this actually happened. It doesn't matter how safe of a driver you may be, there's always gonna be those idiots on the road who only care about themselves. Grrr! I will say, tho, that I am praising God right now for our safety. Sure, our car might look like crap now and sure, we can't go anywhere for the next few days but whatever... we're alive and safe so in my mind, it's all good! :-)
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Thursday, January 20, 2011
EXERCISE:
This morning I finished a step aerobics workout that I found online and let me tell you... it was INTENSE!!! I did the first half on my stepper but then my legs felt like they were gonna burn off so I figured I could quit or finish the workout on the floor... I finished it on the floor. It was just as intense! I was all hot and sweaty and definitely needed to change my clothes. WOO-HOO!
So if you need a good workout to try from home, I HIGHLY recommend you try this. You can easily do it on the floor or on a stepper and get a very good workout! Let me know if you try it... I'd be curious to hear how YOU like it!
Click HERE to see the FREE video.
Then after putting Shorty to bed, I did 2 1/2 miles of the "3-Mile Walk Your Belly Flat" dvd by Leslie Sansone.
First of all, my legs have been killing me all day. Yesterday, when I did my weights circuit, I was pushing 120 lbs on the leg press. So yah, my legs are sore. Doing the stepper workout this morning really burned... then walking with the kicks, knee raises, etc. burned even more. After the first 1/2 mile I was ready to be done. My legs burned so bad! But I kept pushing myself another 1/2 mile and another... and I almost finished the whole 3 miles except I landed on my heel wrong and it hurt so bad, I ended in tears. These heel spurs and plantar faciitis are really starting to bug me.
So, in the end, my exercise totals are below. (I think I'm gonna start recapping exercise at the bottom of my posts.) I feel darn good about myself and my choices today. As I said on my vlog, I'm just taking one day at a time. Looking too far ahead is stressful. I only have control over TODAY and that's all I'm focusing on!
FOOD:
Breakfast: two slices whole wheat toast w/ 2 tbsp. organic peanut butter and 1 tbsp. low sugar jelly | one green apple with 2 tbsp. organic dark chocolate almond spread
Happy Thursday!!!
______________________________________________________
Today's Exercise:
40 Minutes - Step Aerobic Workout
40 Minutes - 2 1/2 Miles Walk DVD
This morning I finished a step aerobics workout that I found online and let me tell you... it was INTENSE!!! I did the first half on my stepper but then my legs felt like they were gonna burn off so I figured I could quit or finish the workout on the floor... I finished it on the floor. It was just as intense! I was all hot and sweaty and definitely needed to change my clothes. WOO-HOO!
So if you need a good workout to try from home, I HIGHLY recommend you try this. You can easily do it on the floor or on a stepper and get a very good workout! Let me know if you try it... I'd be curious to hear how YOU like it!
Click HERE to see the FREE video.
Then after putting Shorty to bed, I did 2 1/2 miles of the "3-Mile Walk Your Belly Flat" dvd by Leslie Sansone.
First of all, my legs have been killing me all day. Yesterday, when I did my weights circuit, I was pushing 120 lbs on the leg press. So yah, my legs are sore. Doing the stepper workout this morning really burned... then walking with the kicks, knee raises, etc. burned even more. After the first 1/2 mile I was ready to be done. My legs burned so bad! But I kept pushing myself another 1/2 mile and another... and I almost finished the whole 3 miles except I landed on my heel wrong and it hurt so bad, I ended in tears. These heel spurs and plantar faciitis are really starting to bug me.
So, in the end, my exercise totals are below. (I think I'm gonna start recapping exercise at the bottom of my posts.) I feel darn good about myself and my choices today. As I said on my vlog, I'm just taking one day at a time. Looking too far ahead is stressful. I only have control over TODAY and that's all I'm focusing on!
FOOD:
Breakfast: two slices whole wheat toast w/ 2 tbsp. organic peanut butter and 1 tbsp. low sugar jelly | one green apple with 2 tbsp. organic dark chocolate almond spread
Calories: 500
Post-Workout Snack: 1/2 protein bar
Calories: 80
Lunch: two slices of personal size veggie gluten free pizza with side salad & lo-cal ranch | diet coke (my first one in forever and it honestly wasn't all that good. I don't miss it!)
Calories: 400
Dinner: leftover two slices of personal size veggie gluten free pizza | one green apple with 1 tbsp. organic dark chocolate almond spread
Calories: 500
Post-Workout Snack: 1 ounce 2% low-fat cheese | 100 calories single serving bag of popped corn
Calories: 180
Total Calories Consumed: 1660
Now pizza isn't a part of my regular eating. Normally lunch would be a peanut butter and jelly sandwich or lean cuisine or veggie burger and broccoli, but today just happened to be "one of those days". Still, I have been known to eat an entire 16" thin crust pizza and today I stopped at 2 slices of a personal size pizza (8") so I am extremely proud of that. I know some people go with the NO JUNK ALLOWED policy but for me, having occasional "comfort" food in moderation is the only way I don't go all yo-yo.
I still have a lot of psychological things to work through relating to food (mostly thanks to S.D.) but again, I'm just taking one day at a time and for today, I feel good!
I still have a lot of psychological things to work through relating to food (mostly thanks to S.D.) but again, I'm just taking one day at a time and for today, I feel good!
______________________________________________________
Today's Exercise:
40 Minutes - Step Aerobic Workout
40 Minutes - 2 1/2 Miles Walk DVD
Sunday, January 16, 2011
The Daniel Cleanse | Made To Crave | Food Update
The Daniel Fast
My mom was talking to me yesterday about something she stumbled across... The Daniel Cleanse (aka The Daniel Fast). I immediately began to research it and it's a scripture-based fast to cleanse the body of toxins while focusing on God.
Here's a few links on the topic:
Daniel Fast Food List
The Daniel Fast
After I read a few articles about it, I read the Bible. I couldn't recall ever hearing about Daniel fasting in the Bible so I needed to see for myself what it actually said. Basically here's how it goes. Daniel (and 3 others) were invited by the King to partake in his royal feast in which, after eating that way and training for three years, he'd be given a position in the King's Court. Daniel, however, politely refused. He didn't want to lower himself to eat from the King's table. He knew better.
Daniel requested an exemption. He asked for the 4 men to be on a diet of vegetables and water for 10 days. At the end of 10 days, the King could compare the 4 of them with all the other men and judge who is better. Sure enough, after the 10 days, Daniel and his friends were much healthier and much stronger. God honored them. The King favored them. Everything was better after this 10-day vegetable & water diet.
If you'd like to read the entire passage, you can here.
I've spent a lot of time praying about this and I believe a 10-day vegetable & water cleanse could be very good for my body. However, with PCOS and the medication I'm on, I don't think my body could function 10 days with just vegetable and water. I'm going to consult my Doctor about it and if I get the "OK", then I will do it!
Made To Crave.
Now, onto the next part of my blog... MADE TO CRAVE! I heard Lysa TerKeurst talking on the radio the other day. What she had to say totally made sense so I went on to her website. Come to find out she's actually the founder of another ministry I'm already involved in... the Proverbs 31 Ministry. (More on that later!)
So before I go on with my review, check out this little clip. It's short... you can handle it!
I absolutely love the idea of this book. I have been writing my own book for the last couple years. I've been writing about my weight loss struggles and my walk with Christ... and how the two completely overlap. So to see this book, almost the exact same idea, I was stoked! I am gonna go pick this up sometime this week (hopefully)... I can't wait to read it! Lysa is such a strong, committed woman and I completely value every word she speaks.
When you allow God to be in control, nothing but GOOD happens. It when you try to be in control that chaos happens. And that's been my life... I have tried so hard to stay in control and make things work on my own. But what I need to do is give it to God... ALLLLLL of it.... and let Him do what He does. I'm really just along for the ride. This applies to every area of my life... including weight-loss. I diet. I go through phases of different exercises. I starve. I gorge. I eat out a lot. I eat at home a lot. I eat fresh food. I eat frozen food. I go back and forth and up and down... and NOTHING WORKS! But why???? Because I'm trying to be in control when I'm the absolutely worst person to be in control. This is a journey, a day-by-day experience... but today I make the commitment to give it to God. God is in control. And today, I surrender my own sugary and carb-loaded desires and open my heart and mind for much healthier alternatives.
Food Update.
Oh, quick food update. Last night Shorty and I had a veggie burger, steamed broccoli and vegetarian baked beans. He hated the beans but loved the veggie burger and broccoli. I, of course, loved it all!
Yesterdays lunch looked like this:
Corn tortillas with soy meat, 2% reduced fat cheese, light sour cream and salsa. We put this on the table and made our own "tacos". Oh, there was a huge bowl of lettuce, too. Yah... it was YUMMY!!!
For breakfast, all week we've been having 100% whole wheat whole grain toast (1 piece for Shorty, 2 pieces [150 calories] for me) and a smoothie [140 calories]. It's become my absolute favorite breakfast... it's healthy, quick, and the best part.... we can eat it in the car!!!! I need a new blender, tho. I have that "magic bullet" system and I've used it so much, it's done! I've worn it into the ground!!
I hope you've had a fantastic week! Here's to an even better one ahead! :-)
My mom was talking to me yesterday about something she stumbled across... The Daniel Cleanse (aka The Daniel Fast). I immediately began to research it and it's a scripture-based fast to cleanse the body of toxins while focusing on God.
Here's a few links on the topic:
Daniel Fast Food List
The Daniel Fast
After I read a few articles about it, I read the Bible. I couldn't recall ever hearing about Daniel fasting in the Bible so I needed to see for myself what it actually said. Basically here's how it goes. Daniel (and 3 others) were invited by the King to partake in his royal feast in which, after eating that way and training for three years, he'd be given a position in the King's Court. Daniel, however, politely refused. He didn't want to lower himself to eat from the King's table. He knew better.
Daniel requested an exemption. He asked for the 4 men to be on a diet of vegetables and water for 10 days. At the end of 10 days, the King could compare the 4 of them with all the other men and judge who is better. Sure enough, after the 10 days, Daniel and his friends were much healthier and much stronger. God honored them. The King favored them. Everything was better after this 10-day vegetable & water diet.
If you'd like to read the entire passage, you can here.
I've spent a lot of time praying about this and I believe a 10-day vegetable & water cleanse could be very good for my body. However, with PCOS and the medication I'm on, I don't think my body could function 10 days with just vegetable and water. I'm going to consult my Doctor about it and if I get the "OK", then I will do it!
Made To Crave.
Now, onto the next part of my blog... MADE TO CRAVE! I heard Lysa TerKeurst talking on the radio the other day. What she had to say totally made sense so I went on to her website. Come to find out she's actually the founder of another ministry I'm already involved in... the Proverbs 31 Ministry. (More on that later!)
So before I go on with my review, check out this little clip. It's short... you can handle it!
I absolutely love the idea of this book. I have been writing my own book for the last couple years. I've been writing about my weight loss struggles and my walk with Christ... and how the two completely overlap. So to see this book, almost the exact same idea, I was stoked! I am gonna go pick this up sometime this week (hopefully)... I can't wait to read it! Lysa is such a strong, committed woman and I completely value every word she speaks.
When you allow God to be in control, nothing but GOOD happens. It when you try to be in control that chaos happens. And that's been my life... I have tried so hard to stay in control and make things work on my own. But what I need to do is give it to God... ALLLLLL of it.... and let Him do what He does. I'm really just along for the ride. This applies to every area of my life... including weight-loss. I diet. I go through phases of different exercises. I starve. I gorge. I eat out a lot. I eat at home a lot. I eat fresh food. I eat frozen food. I go back and forth and up and down... and NOTHING WORKS! But why???? Because I'm trying to be in control when I'm the absolutely worst person to be in control. This is a journey, a day-by-day experience... but today I make the commitment to give it to God. God is in control. And today, I surrender my own sugary and carb-loaded desires and open my heart and mind for much healthier alternatives.
Food Update.
Oh, quick food update. Last night Shorty and I had a veggie burger, steamed broccoli and vegetarian baked beans. He hated the beans but loved the veggie burger and broccoli. I, of course, loved it all!
Yesterdays lunch looked like this:
Corn tortillas with soy meat, 2% reduced fat cheese, light sour cream and salsa. We put this on the table and made our own "tacos". Oh, there was a huge bowl of lettuce, too. Yah... it was YUMMY!!!
For breakfast, all week we've been having 100% whole wheat whole grain toast (1 piece for Shorty, 2 pieces [150 calories] for me) and a smoothie [140 calories]. It's become my absolute favorite breakfast... it's healthy, quick, and the best part.... we can eat it in the car!!!! I need a new blender, tho. I have that "magic bullet" system and I've used it so much, it's done! I've worn it into the ground!!
I hope you've had a fantastic week! Here's to an even better one ahead! :-)
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Where Ya Been, Black Kat?
Sorry I haven't written for a few days. Shorty has been really sick with pneumonia. He's doing better today and, Lord willing, will be going back to school tomorrow so that means I get to start catching up on all my stuff.
First of all, how are you doing? Have you been eating well? Exercising? Tell me all about your last couple weeks!!!
Ok, so I've been doing good. Despite the fact that I've been home all day for the past several days, fingertips away from food.... I've kept within my calorie target and water goal. I have not been doing much exercising. Shame on me! I have pretty much kept to my 30 minutes a day goal but I really need to be doing more. Tonight I added some kickboxing and resistance training to my 30 minutes bringing my total to 60 minutes of exercise. One day at a time... right?!?!
So now that Shorty is back on schedule, I can be too! Tomorrow I am a "helper" in Shorty's class so that takes up my morning. After school we have a tentative lunch date with friends, then I have to go pick up my textbooks for school and once we get home, depending on how Shorty is feeling, we'll either walk to the park (1 mile each way) and play for a while or I'll do some exercise at home.
HAPPY TUESDAY!!!!
First of all, how are you doing? Have you been eating well? Exercising? Tell me all about your last couple weeks!!!
Ok, so I've been doing good. Despite the fact that I've been home all day for the past several days, fingertips away from food.... I've kept within my calorie target and water goal. I have not been doing much exercising. Shame on me! I have pretty much kept to my 30 minutes a day goal but I really need to be doing more. Tonight I added some kickboxing and resistance training to my 30 minutes bringing my total to 60 minutes of exercise. One day at a time... right?!?!
So now that Shorty is back on schedule, I can be too! Tomorrow I am a "helper" in Shorty's class so that takes up my morning. After school we have a tentative lunch date with friends, then I have to go pick up my textbooks for school and once we get home, depending on how Shorty is feeling, we'll either walk to the park (1 mile each way) and play for a while or I'll do some exercise at home.
HAPPY TUESDAY!!!!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Eh... Nevermind. And Uh.... Happy New Year!
Disregard my earlier post... I can't wait a whole week to talk to you guys. Heck, I couldn't even make it a whole night! This blog is so therapeutic for me and even though it sometimes takes a lot of time and digs up some past hurts, it's good to get it out of my head!
So, let's put it this way... at the very least I will blog on Sunday's, but more than likely, it'll be more often than that!
Cool. Ok. So tonight I....... wait for it........ I EXERCISED!!! Yah, I know. Total shocker, right? So I was sitting on the couch watching tv only I couldn't find anything to watch. (Side note: I chose not to pay for cable because I don't want to become a couch potato so we are dealing with a cheap antenna and crappy reception which usually leaves us with only channel 12, 15, 61 and sometimes 5 and 51. Pretty boring, eh?)
After about 15 minutes of channel surfing, I gave up. I happened to have workout clothes on (from my day of running around) and tennis shoes. (Another side note: my tennis shoes are expensive and good quality but they aren't PINK so I don't like to wear them often. My mom bought me pink shoelaces but let's be honest. Pink shoelaces don't make a shoe pink. Especially when the shoe is actually white and lavender. Ugh! I need me some PINK tennis shoes!!!) So I figured, what the heck?!?! I might as well do a few minutes of a dvd workout or whatever.
I popped in this dance/workout dvd. Ok, 50 lbs ago, I could've done it just fine. But at this plumpness, it was hella hard. I kept up for about 5 minutes and then when I couldn't breathe anymore (huffing and puffing like a fattie), I decided to do something slightly less intense. So I popped in a "Walk Off Your Belly Fat" dvd from the Walk Away The Pounds series. Leslie Sansone cracks me up. The lady talks through the entire dvd, every single one. And sometimes she fumbles over her words. So I laugh because.... well... she's HUMAN! And it's funny! She's not perfect like so many of the other dvd hosts (or whatever you call them). She sweats. She gets major word vomit sometimes. She's real! She can be annoying sometimes... but she's real! Therefore, I feel like I'm working out in a REAL class with a REAL trainer and ultimately, I'm getting a REAL workout!
This was a boosted walk so there was some jogging, weight lifting (I always do heavier than her recommended 3-5 lbs weights) and the regular fast-temp side steps, knee lifts, back kicks, etc. My favorite thing about this particular dvd is that she had a countdown clock for each mile. Instead of me constantly peeking around the corner to see the kitchen clock, wondering how much longer until I'm done.... she put the clock right there on the screen so I know exactly how much longer I have! THANK YOU LESLIE!!!
I will tell you this. Walking is a great exercise. If you don't believe me, google it. It's one of the best exercises you can do for your body. Even better is when you pair it with resistance training. Again, google it. But here's the thing. You can't just walk and expect to lose a lot of weight. I'm not a registered dietician. I'm not a Doctor. And I'm certainly not a know-it-all. I am, however, someone who has done a lot of research. Like, enough research that I should be a friggin twig right now. I also have passed some pretty intense nutrition classes in college. I started out wanting to be a nutritionist and personal trainer. Then I figured, how could I possibly help other people get healthy when I'm sitting here over 300 lbs? Yah, not a good idea... yet. But I DO know a lot. And one thing I know very well is that walking isn't enough.
Any exercise, when balanced with a healthy diet is ideal. Right? Do we all agree? If you don't, GOOGLE IT!!! (Can you tell I'm addicted to google???) So, I am working hard on the food. I refuse to call it a "diet" because diets just set you up for failure. But I am working hard on my lifestyle change relating to food. And now, today, I began my fitness improvement as well. I know it is just one day at a time. So for today, I say: job well done, Miss Kat!
For tomorrow, the last day of 2010 (where the HECK has the year gone???), I am anxious to see how the day goes. I am stuck at home as my car will be at the mechanic getting new brakes (no clue how I'm gonna pay for them!) so that means I have food at my fingertips all day but thanks to a recent shopping trip, it's all healthy food. As long as it doesn't rain tomorrow, Shorty and I will take a couple trips to the park to burn some extra calories (me, not him!) and enjoy the last day of 2010. The only thing I worry about is night. I know it's all about choices but I also know my family is notorious for making smelly, yummy, bad-for-you foods whenever there's a holiday. I will bring a few healthier alternatives but will need the extra prayer and positive reminders to stay away from the junk. I don't need it. And it's not good for me. The point is to improve, not do the same thing I always do.
In case I don't write beforehand.... HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!
So, let's put it this way... at the very least I will blog on Sunday's, but more than likely, it'll be more often than that!
Cool. Ok. So tonight I....... wait for it........ I EXERCISED!!! Yah, I know. Total shocker, right? So I was sitting on the couch watching tv only I couldn't find anything to watch. (Side note: I chose not to pay for cable because I don't want to become a couch potato so we are dealing with a cheap antenna and crappy reception which usually leaves us with only channel 12, 15, 61 and sometimes 5 and 51. Pretty boring, eh?)
After about 15 minutes of channel surfing, I gave up. I happened to have workout clothes on (from my day of running around) and tennis shoes. (Another side note: my tennis shoes are expensive and good quality but they aren't PINK so I don't like to wear them often. My mom bought me pink shoelaces but let's be honest. Pink shoelaces don't make a shoe pink. Especially when the shoe is actually white and lavender. Ugh! I need me some PINK tennis shoes!!!) So I figured, what the heck?!?! I might as well do a few minutes of a dvd workout or whatever.
I popped in this dance/workout dvd. Ok, 50 lbs ago, I could've done it just fine. But at this plumpness, it was hella hard. I kept up for about 5 minutes and then when I couldn't breathe anymore (huffing and puffing like a fattie), I decided to do something slightly less intense. So I popped in a "Walk Off Your Belly Fat" dvd from the Walk Away The Pounds series. Leslie Sansone cracks me up. The lady talks through the entire dvd, every single one. And sometimes she fumbles over her words. So I laugh because.... well... she's HUMAN! And it's funny! She's not perfect like so many of the other dvd hosts (or whatever you call them). She sweats. She gets major word vomit sometimes. She's real! She can be annoying sometimes... but she's real! Therefore, I feel like I'm working out in a REAL class with a REAL trainer and ultimately, I'm getting a REAL workout!
This was a boosted walk so there was some jogging, weight lifting (I always do heavier than her recommended 3-5 lbs weights) and the regular fast-temp side steps, knee lifts, back kicks, etc. My favorite thing about this particular dvd is that she had a countdown clock for each mile. Instead of me constantly peeking around the corner to see the kitchen clock, wondering how much longer until I'm done.... she put the clock right there on the screen so I know exactly how much longer I have! THANK YOU LESLIE!!!
I will tell you this. Walking is a great exercise. If you don't believe me, google it. It's one of the best exercises you can do for your body. Even better is when you pair it with resistance training. Again, google it. But here's the thing. You can't just walk and expect to lose a lot of weight. I'm not a registered dietician. I'm not a Doctor. And I'm certainly not a know-it-all. I am, however, someone who has done a lot of research. Like, enough research that I should be a friggin twig right now. I also have passed some pretty intense nutrition classes in college. I started out wanting to be a nutritionist and personal trainer. Then I figured, how could I possibly help other people get healthy when I'm sitting here over 300 lbs? Yah, not a good idea... yet. But I DO know a lot. And one thing I know very well is that walking isn't enough.
Any exercise, when balanced with a healthy diet is ideal. Right? Do we all agree? If you don't, GOOGLE IT!!! (Can you tell I'm addicted to google???) So, I am working hard on the food. I refuse to call it a "diet" because diets just set you up for failure. But I am working hard on my lifestyle change relating to food. And now, today, I began my fitness improvement as well. I know it is just one day at a time. So for today, I say: job well done, Miss Kat!
For tomorrow, the last day of 2010 (where the HECK has the year gone???), I am anxious to see how the day goes. I am stuck at home as my car will be at the mechanic getting new brakes (no clue how I'm gonna pay for them!) so that means I have food at my fingertips all day but thanks to a recent shopping trip, it's all healthy food. As long as it doesn't rain tomorrow, Shorty and I will take a couple trips to the park to burn some extra calories (me, not him!) and enjoy the last day of 2010. The only thing I worry about is night. I know it's all about choices but I also know my family is notorious for making smelly, yummy, bad-for-you foods whenever there's a holiday. I will bring a few healthier alternatives but will need the extra prayer and positive reminders to stay away from the junk. I don't need it. And it's not good for me. The point is to improve, not do the same thing I always do.
In case I don't write beforehand.... HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!
Sunday, Sunday... See You Sunday!
So I just wanted to post a quick little blurb to let you know that, at least for a few weeks, I'll just be posting once weekly on... you guessed it... Sunday's. So be sure to check back each week. I'm sparing you daily reading but I'm guessing the once-weekly posts may be a bit longer. Anyway, until further notice, see you Sunday! :-)
~*~ Kat ~*~
~*~ Kat ~*~
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Nutritionist Visit
Yesterday, my Nutritionist came to my house for a visit. This was the first time meeting with this particular person. She was nice. Quiet... but nice! She spent the majority of the time asking me questions. First some basic ones: "how tall are you?" "how much do you weigh?" "who is your Doctor?" etc. Then nutrition-specific ones: "what do you typically eat for breakfast?" "what foods do you not like?" "what kind of help do you need from me?" "how many calories do you eat now?" etc. These questions went on for about 45 minutes.
Then the fun part. We talked about how many servings of each of the 5 food groups I need each day. She went over portion sizes with me (I already know this stuff but it was a great refresher!) and defined some nutrition terms.
Regarding Calories. I explained that, per the SSDDDC, I am at approximately 1780 calories. To spare some time, I let her know that I was already aware that my weight (323) times 10-12 (11, as an average) equals how many calories my body requires to just maintain. So roughly 3553. Assuming I eat under 1800 calories per day, which is half of what my body requires to "maintain", then I should lose 3.5 lbs per week. She agreed with that calculation... more or less. After all was said and done, she left my calories at 1800 per day and said we'll re-evaluate in 3 weeks.
Regarding Portion Sizes. I disagree with what she told me. Ok, first of all, she said, even as a vegetarian, the only protein I should have each day is equivalent to the size of my palm, minus my fingers. That means both the diameter and the thickness. My hands are not that big. That is basically just one veggie burger... for an entire day... and that's it for protein. I understand she's a Dietitian but I just passed a year of Nutrition classes in college and after much studying and research, I know that as a vegetarian, my protein needs are double that of a meat eating person. Plus the fact that I am a child-bearing age and haven't gone through menopause... protein is important!
The portion for carbohydrates, again for an entire day, is that of my fist. I know that is equivalent to a single portion size, but not for an entire day. Carbohydrates, when in WHOLE form, are the best source of energy. Carbs are not bad! Fruits and veggies I'm to only have 2 servings of each. That's tough because I enjoy a big, veggie-packed salad for dinner sometimes or an omelet with a cup or two of veggies for breakfast. And cheese/dairy, I'm to have 4 servings of per day. Wait! More dairy and less veggies??? This just doesn't seem right to me. I'm going to run that by my Nutrition Professor to see what she thinks.
Regarding Water. Now here's something I completely disagree with. She said "drink to thirst". When I asked for clarification, she said "drink when you're thirsty, don't when you're not. There's no requirement. No minimum. Just drink what and when you want." WRONG! Our bodies DO require water. At minimum, we should be drinking 8 8-ounce classes of water per day (64 ounces). AT MINIMUM! When I mentioned how much water I've been drinking on the SSDDDC, she said that it won't kill me, but that it's completely unnecessary. "Weight loss should be easy, not hard." To which I said "well if weight loss was easy, we'd all be skinny and there wouldn't be any fat people." She laughed and then looked at me like I was crazy!
I told her I plan to keep drinking the water as it's a) helped me to stay fuller all day and b) flushed out a lot of CRAP from my system. Though I've been hit hard with colds and infections ever since, I know from a nutrition perspective that it's because I am cleansing my body of toxins and built-up bacteria and so a lot of that crap is surfacing all at once. Once I finish my antibiotics, I'm certain that will be over with and the water will keep helping to flush the crap outta me!
Regarding Meals and Logging Food. Again, she reminded me that "weight loss should be easy, not hard". She had a worksheet for me to log my various foods each day and keep track of how many veggies, fruits, proteins, etc. I eat. I told her how I blog about what I eat and keep track of it that way. She said "oh no no no. That's a lot of work. Don't make this so difficult on yourself or you won't stick with it." I thought about that for a minute. It's blogging that's keeping me on track. I know when I have to write about my food/exercise choices, I'll get feedback. I don't like the negative comments so I try to make better choices to eliminate those. It's encouragement for me. It's motivation. It's inspiration. And it's accountability. Without blogging, as I discovered earlier this year, I go crazy with food and get lazy with exercise. It does me NO good.
So, I overall, I was underwhelmed by the appointment. I think the lady was nice and I'm sure she's done a great deal of good for some people. But I question if she's ever actually worked with a morbidly obese woman before. I asked for ways to eat for breast cancer prevention and PCOS maintenance and she had no idea what I was talking about. Her comments about the water and the blogging pretty much turned me off to hearing anything else she might have to say. I'm glad I didn't have to pay for her out-of-pocket (thank you, ghetto insurance, for covering this!) because I'd demand a refund. I learned a lot more from my year of nutrition classes than I did from this one-on-one appointment. Total bummer! Guess I need to stick to what I know and anything I don't know, I'll do what I do best.... RESEARCH IT!!!
Then the fun part. We talked about how many servings of each of the 5 food groups I need each day. She went over portion sizes with me (I already know this stuff but it was a great refresher!) and defined some nutrition terms.
Regarding Calories. I explained that, per the SSDDDC, I am at approximately 1780 calories. To spare some time, I let her know that I was already aware that my weight (323) times 10-12 (11, as an average) equals how many calories my body requires to just maintain. So roughly 3553. Assuming I eat under 1800 calories per day, which is half of what my body requires to "maintain", then I should lose 3.5 lbs per week. She agreed with that calculation... more or less. After all was said and done, she left my calories at 1800 per day and said we'll re-evaluate in 3 weeks.
Regarding Portion Sizes. I disagree with what she told me. Ok, first of all, she said, even as a vegetarian, the only protein I should have each day is equivalent to the size of my palm, minus my fingers. That means both the diameter and the thickness. My hands are not that big. That is basically just one veggie burger... for an entire day... and that's it for protein. I understand she's a Dietitian but I just passed a year of Nutrition classes in college and after much studying and research, I know that as a vegetarian, my protein needs are double that of a meat eating person. Plus the fact that I am a child-bearing age and haven't gone through menopause... protein is important!
The portion for carbohydrates, again for an entire day, is that of my fist. I know that is equivalent to a single portion size, but not for an entire day. Carbohydrates, when in WHOLE form, are the best source of energy. Carbs are not bad! Fruits and veggies I'm to only have 2 servings of each. That's tough because I enjoy a big, veggie-packed salad for dinner sometimes or an omelet with a cup or two of veggies for breakfast. And cheese/dairy, I'm to have 4 servings of per day. Wait! More dairy and less veggies??? This just doesn't seem right to me. I'm going to run that by my Nutrition Professor to see what she thinks.
Regarding Water. Now here's something I completely disagree with. She said "drink to thirst". When I asked for clarification, she said "drink when you're thirsty, don't when you're not. There's no requirement. No minimum. Just drink what and when you want." WRONG! Our bodies DO require water. At minimum, we should be drinking 8 8-ounce classes of water per day (64 ounces). AT MINIMUM! When I mentioned how much water I've been drinking on the SSDDDC, she said that it won't kill me, but that it's completely unnecessary. "Weight loss should be easy, not hard." To which I said "well if weight loss was easy, we'd all be skinny and there wouldn't be any fat people." She laughed and then looked at me like I was crazy!
I told her I plan to keep drinking the water as it's a) helped me to stay fuller all day and b) flushed out a lot of CRAP from my system. Though I've been hit hard with colds and infections ever since, I know from a nutrition perspective that it's because I am cleansing my body of toxins and built-up bacteria and so a lot of that crap is surfacing all at once. Once I finish my antibiotics, I'm certain that will be over with and the water will keep helping to flush the crap outta me!
Regarding Meals and Logging Food. Again, she reminded me that "weight loss should be easy, not hard". She had a worksheet for me to log my various foods each day and keep track of how many veggies, fruits, proteins, etc. I eat. I told her how I blog about what I eat and keep track of it that way. She said "oh no no no. That's a lot of work. Don't make this so difficult on yourself or you won't stick with it." I thought about that for a minute. It's blogging that's keeping me on track. I know when I have to write about my food/exercise choices, I'll get feedback. I don't like the negative comments so I try to make better choices to eliminate those. It's encouragement for me. It's motivation. It's inspiration. And it's accountability. Without blogging, as I discovered earlier this year, I go crazy with food and get lazy with exercise. It does me NO good.
So, I overall, I was underwhelmed by the appointment. I think the lady was nice and I'm sure she's done a great deal of good for some people. But I question if she's ever actually worked with a morbidly obese woman before. I asked for ways to eat for breast cancer prevention and PCOS maintenance and she had no idea what I was talking about. Her comments about the water and the blogging pretty much turned me off to hearing anything else she might have to say. I'm glad I didn't have to pay for her out-of-pocket (thank you, ghetto insurance, for covering this!) because I'd demand a refund. I learned a lot more from my year of nutrition classes than I did from this one-on-one appointment. Total bummer! Guess I need to stick to what I know and anything I don't know, I'll do what I do best.... RESEARCH IT!!!
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Saturday, December 25, 2010
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!! I hope you had a lovely day celebrating with your family and friends!
Here's how my day went. We didn't get to sleep last night until... well... this morning. Shorty was TOO excited for Santa to come that he couldn't calm down and sleep until about 12:30 this morning. I had some wrapping to do and had to lay all of "Santa's" stuff out so I was up till about 1:15 am.
Then around 4:00 this morning, there was a LOUD bang! I thought someone was breaking in. I was seriously freaked out. I quickly put on my glasses and held my phone in my had with my finger on the "9" just in case. I was staring at the bedroom door just waiting for someone to walk down my hall. After about 10 minutes of me almost peeing my pants, I got up really quick, closed and locked the bedroom door. Shorty just happened to be sleeping in with me so I felt we were both safe in there. 20 minutes went by and nothing. Then 30... and 40 minutes. I was driving myself crazy so I texted a friend that I knew was awake (he works graveyard shift). He helped calm me down. He said "if someone broke in a half hour ago, you'd know it by now. I'm sure it was just an outside noise."
Still, it kept me up till 5:30 this morning. I eventually fell asleep, with my door closed and locked, but woke up every hour after that. Then, at 7:35 am... SHORTY WOKE UP! I was exhausted and so was he. In fact, I practically had to convince him to roll out of bed to open presents! lol.
So anyway, zillions of presents and some Bible reading later, we went to my family's house. I had only 2 Hershey's kisses. There was TONS of candy there but I just was not craving it. Not after the last 2 nights I'd had.
Oh, side note... I don't think I've blogged completely about my emotional nights but here they are in a nutshell. So you remember my previous posts about being lonely around the holidays etc? Well, it's been a bit lonely and emotional these last couple nights. I've been sitting on the couch, all alone, watching Christmas movies... wishing I had someone to cuddle up with. blah, blah, blah. In the past, these emotional nights send me into a carb-coma. I go crazy and eat everything in sight... like somehow the food is going to make things better. These last 2 nights, while I haven't gone that extreme, I have definitely eaten more than I needed and haven't made the best choices. With all the holiday candy and treats around me, they were the easy targets for my emotional binges.
I SCREWED UP! I know that. I am so mad at myself for eating that crap! I have been so committed to this challenge and have seen great results and over the past 48 hours, I feel like I just threw that all away. In fact, I'm not sure if I'll be at a scale tomorrow so I went ahead and weighed in today... I maintained. I'm still at roughly 323 lbs. It's hella frustrating. I have done well this entire week and stuck to my calories, but in 48 hours of weakness, the hard work doesn't matter. My period is done. My cold is almost all gone (gotta love meds!!!). So I should have seen a big loss on the scale. But no. It was more important for me to scarf down that candy cane when no one was looking and eat a late night lean cuisine because I was "hungry" at midnight. It didn't help me then. It doesn't help me now.
Grrrrrrr!
So yah, I'm frustrated about that. I mean, I guess it's a good thing I didn't gain any weight. But still, maintaining weight isn't doing anything for me or my health. I need to lose it... and FAST!!! So I have 1 more week until this year is over and a new one begins. That's 1 week to focus 110% on eating right, exercising and drinking my water. Nothing else matters. I can't focus on my idiot ex husband or the bills I can't pay or the job I can't seem to find anywhere. Sure, those things are important, but they distract me from my goals.
It's really hard for me to stay on track when I'm home all day. At least when Shorty is in school, I'm running around all day so I'm keeping busy and my meals are pretty much planned. But when I'm home all day, I'm near the food all day. Temptation is everywhere. And when I'm bored, it's far too easy to reach for food instead of water.
I HATE BEING FAT!!!! This time next year, I want to be able to receive clothes as a Christmas present without having to worry about being to fat to wear them. I want to be able to resist all holiday treats because I don't want them, not because I "can't have them or I'll get fatter". I want to be able to strut my stuff at holiday parties instead of skipping them all because I'm too fat and don't have anything pretty to wear.
The majority of my fat life, I've been a 2x or size 22-24. Never any bigger. But these past 6 months, I've been a 3x or 4x, size 26-28. It's incredibly embarassing. Forget that. It's HUMILIATING.... going into a plus size store and being to big for their biggest size clothing. A few months ago I went to Fashion Bug (size 28 is the max) to get some jeans. Not a single pair fit me. Not the 28's. Not even the stretchy ones. Well, technically some of them fit me, but I had major camel-toe and indented rolls... not a pretty sight. Then tonight, as a gift, I got some gorgeous flannel pajama pants with BLING! They were a 3x... just tried them on and they don't fit up my ass. DISAPPOINTING!!!!
So, though it's been a perfect Christmas day, it's been an emotional and disappointing 48 hours. I'm ready for tomorrow to start because it's a new day with new chances to friggin' get back on track. I know what's important to me and I want it bad. I have to stop letting my emotions, my loneliness and my fear sabotage the hard work I've put in already for a better me!
How was your Christmas? How did you do around all the holiday sweets? Do you have any disappointments or frustrations from this week? Do share!!!
Here's how my day went. We didn't get to sleep last night until... well... this morning. Shorty was TOO excited for Santa to come that he couldn't calm down and sleep until about 12:30 this morning. I had some wrapping to do and had to lay all of "Santa's" stuff out so I was up till about 1:15 am.
Then around 4:00 this morning, there was a LOUD bang! I thought someone was breaking in. I was seriously freaked out. I quickly put on my glasses and held my phone in my had with my finger on the "9" just in case. I was staring at the bedroom door just waiting for someone to walk down my hall. After about 10 minutes of me almost peeing my pants, I got up really quick, closed and locked the bedroom door. Shorty just happened to be sleeping in with me so I felt we were both safe in there. 20 minutes went by and nothing. Then 30... and 40 minutes. I was driving myself crazy so I texted a friend that I knew was awake (he works graveyard shift). He helped calm me down. He said "if someone broke in a half hour ago, you'd know it by now. I'm sure it was just an outside noise."
Still, it kept me up till 5:30 this morning. I eventually fell asleep, with my door closed and locked, but woke up every hour after that. Then, at 7:35 am... SHORTY WOKE UP! I was exhausted and so was he. In fact, I practically had to convince him to roll out of bed to open presents! lol.
So anyway, zillions of presents and some Bible reading later, we went to my family's house. I had only 2 Hershey's kisses. There was TONS of candy there but I just was not craving it. Not after the last 2 nights I'd had.
Oh, side note... I don't think I've blogged completely about my emotional nights but here they are in a nutshell. So you remember my previous posts about being lonely around the holidays etc? Well, it's been a bit lonely and emotional these last couple nights. I've been sitting on the couch, all alone, watching Christmas movies... wishing I had someone to cuddle up with. blah, blah, blah. In the past, these emotional nights send me into a carb-coma. I go crazy and eat everything in sight... like somehow the food is going to make things better. These last 2 nights, while I haven't gone that extreme, I have definitely eaten more than I needed and haven't made the best choices. With all the holiday candy and treats around me, they were the easy targets for my emotional binges.
I SCREWED UP! I know that. I am so mad at myself for eating that crap! I have been so committed to this challenge and have seen great results and over the past 48 hours, I feel like I just threw that all away. In fact, I'm not sure if I'll be at a scale tomorrow so I went ahead and weighed in today... I maintained. I'm still at roughly 323 lbs. It's hella frustrating. I have done well this entire week and stuck to my calories, but in 48 hours of weakness, the hard work doesn't matter. My period is done. My cold is almost all gone (gotta love meds!!!). So I should have seen a big loss on the scale. But no. It was more important for me to scarf down that candy cane when no one was looking and eat a late night lean cuisine because I was "hungry" at midnight. It didn't help me then. It doesn't help me now.
Grrrrrrr!
So yah, I'm frustrated about that. I mean, I guess it's a good thing I didn't gain any weight. But still, maintaining weight isn't doing anything for me or my health. I need to lose it... and FAST!!! So I have 1 more week until this year is over and a new one begins. That's 1 week to focus 110% on eating right, exercising and drinking my water. Nothing else matters. I can't focus on my idiot ex husband or the bills I can't pay or the job I can't seem to find anywhere. Sure, those things are important, but they distract me from my goals.
It's really hard for me to stay on track when I'm home all day. At least when Shorty is in school, I'm running around all day so I'm keeping busy and my meals are pretty much planned. But when I'm home all day, I'm near the food all day. Temptation is everywhere. And when I'm bored, it's far too easy to reach for food instead of water.
I HATE BEING FAT!!!! This time next year, I want to be able to receive clothes as a Christmas present without having to worry about being to fat to wear them. I want to be able to resist all holiday treats because I don't want them, not because I "can't have them or I'll get fatter". I want to be able to strut my stuff at holiday parties instead of skipping them all because I'm too fat and don't have anything pretty to wear.
The majority of my fat life, I've been a 2x or size 22-24. Never any bigger. But these past 6 months, I've been a 3x or 4x, size 26-28. It's incredibly embarassing. Forget that. It's HUMILIATING.... going into a plus size store and being to big for their biggest size clothing. A few months ago I went to Fashion Bug (size 28 is the max) to get some jeans. Not a single pair fit me. Not the 28's. Not even the stretchy ones. Well, technically some of them fit me, but I had major camel-toe and indented rolls... not a pretty sight. Then tonight, as a gift, I got some gorgeous flannel pajama pants with BLING! They were a 3x... just tried them on and they don't fit up my ass. DISAPPOINTING!!!!
So, though it's been a perfect Christmas day, it's been an emotional and disappointing 48 hours. I'm ready for tomorrow to start because it's a new day with new chances to friggin' get back on track. I know what's important to me and I want it bad. I have to stop letting my emotions, my loneliness and my fear sabotage the hard work I've put in already for a better me!
How was your Christmas? How did you do around all the holiday sweets? Do you have any disappointments or frustrations from this week? Do share!!!
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