I am getting married next fall, and I am hoping to lose at least 20 pounds by my wedding (with my ideal goal to be back to my high school weight of 102 lbs - I'm 4'8" and have 50 lbs to go!). This is the first time I've seen a plan that I am sure I can keep up with. I am sick of looking in the mirror and wanting to cry because I don't even recognize myself.
In high school, I never had a weight problem; I was always active in the High School Marching Band and ate whenever and whatever I wanted. In college, I changed birth control medications, and had a 30lb weight gain in one year. Even though I am no longer on any types of medications (I hated their side effects), I couldn't take off any weight and slowly gained.
I even went to my primary care doctor, who referred me to a weight management specialist. He gave me weight control medication, and although I lost 20 lbs I couldn't stand the skin condition side effects and I couldn't imagine that I would need to take medication to be at a healthy weight for the rest of my life. I was also forced to eat foods I hated to eat, when I hated to eat them. He wanted me to have all protein in the morning as my main meal; and I'm sorry but the idea of meat in the morning was not my cup of tea. When I attempted to explain that I gag when I eat meat in the morning, he told me, "...if it didn't breathe, drink milk, or walk...it's not real protein - and you won't lose weight." I didn't go back after that. How can someone say that to their vegan patients, trying to lose weight? I was at the point of giving up. I stopped the medication and gained it all, plus an additional 20 lbs.
I am hoping to eliminate my cravings for breads, pasta, and potatoes. I can handle saying no to desserts...but I eat and breathe pasta and breads. I was so afraid that I'd always crave these foods; it's SO nice to read that after at least two weeks the cravings will subside. I have horrible willpower....I need help, so I'm attempting to convince my fiance by telling him "Let's Do Lunch, please?" He has been overweight his entire life, and I know he would love to lose 50 lbs as well. My Mom is also looking into LDL, too.
I think the hardest part will be cleaning out my pantry and getting rid of all the foods that will no longer be a part of my life...
Here's to a start at a better way of living.
