Congrats! I'm particularly with you on 10 and 59, which I know from personal experience. Unfortunately, I still eat some junk food but some just tastes awful. Same with sodas. We got the meat as extra idea from friends who'd been in Africa.
fecundity
· 2 years ago
Congratulations. Losing 100 pounds and keeping it (mostly) off is a wonderful achievement.
Oh, and I did #75 last night. Because I'm an idiot.
FinanceAndFat
· 2 years ago
Great list!
I'm going through the process now of losing weight again- after getting really fat about 6 years ago I got my act together and lost 50 pounds. A couple of months ago I realized I had gained back 61 pounds! And I swore I would never get fat again after the first time...
SavingDiva
· 2 years ago
Whoa! What a list! I have to admit that I'd rather starve than eat a Ricola, but I did appreciate your hatred for articifical sweetners. Most people will tell you they're the greatest dieting tool ever, and I just can't stomach them. Right now, I'm concentrating on getting a lot of intense cardio in...and I've been sleeping EXTREMELY well!
Patrick
· 2 years ago
I found this article engaging and informative. To be honest, I am not overweight, but I have noticed I've gained a few pounds recently. I learned a lot of great information here, so hopefully I can integrate a few preemptive changes to prevent weight gain. That should be easier than losing weight, I think! Congrats on your success and thanks for sharing.
Fecundity's coincidental post
· 2 years ago
[...] a collection of things that may help you lose weight, see Brip Blap's 101 Thoughts on losing 100 pounds. A few of them will also save you money. Note number 75. Let that reinforce the idea that I am an idiot. [...]
FourPillars
· 2 years ago
Nice list!
Jogging is easier when you have good shoes.
I'll add that jogging (or any activity for that matter) is easier with less weight to carry (or bounce) around.
Mike
webomatica
· 2 years ago
Just happened upon this blog. Wow, this is a great list. I learned a few things - about diet soda having sodium and the tip about watching TV influencing hunger are great suggestions. I'm trying to shed a few pounds (aren't we all), so this information is definitely some food for thought (pun intended).
Joe Fier
· 2 years ago
Very well-rounded list!
That's amazing that you've lost 100 pounds. Most people don't have the heart to stick with it like you have.
My favorite is #59. Most people don't know the rule about meat the size of your palm as being a proportion. Splurging seems like the American way to eat, so most keep truckin' ahead like that!
Michael
· 2 years ago
You're right about the artificial sweeteners. My wife had to take my MIL to the hospital yesterday because she thought she was having a heart attack. Turns out she was having an allergic reaction to the immense quantities of aspertame she had consumed in the form of Diet Coke. She's been addicted to the stuff for quite a while, and it's done nothing but make her fatter.
bripblap
· 2 years ago
@Michael - that's scary; I hope your wife is OK now. Artificial sweeteners are sold everywhere and there's not a lot of long term data on what they are actually DOING to us.
@Mike: yeah, good jogging shoes go hand in hand with "not dragging around an excess 20 pounds while running." I've had a bad running summer and I badly need to get back into race shape, not just jogging shape - which is bad timing considering winter's coming and I'm not the greatest cold weather runner.
FourPillars
· 2 years ago
BB - you gotta bite the bullet on the cold weather - dress as warm as necessary, cover as much as you have to, apply vasoline on exposed skin if you must, and get out there - once you get going there is no difference between jogging in the summer or winter.
Mike
sfordinarygirl
· 2 years ago
What an amazing list! you're right on the nuts - grabbing a handful can add up! i measure out 23 pieces (a serving) and I only eat a few during meals and spread them throughout the day.
gum is good but they contain artificial sweeteners also. so you have to be careful and chew in moderation.
bripblap
· 2 years ago
@Mike: I know, I know, I feel bad that I'm such a wimp about it. My dad runs in cold weather, and plenty of people I know do. I just can never get past that cold air in my lungs. But I'll have to grit my teeth. Maybe if I buy better insulating gear....
@sfordinarygirl: Yeah, I debated gum, but there are a few that don't contain artificial sweeteners. You have to look long and hard, but there are some. Orbit has xylitol as a sweetener, and while I'll confess some ignorance about long-term effects of xylitol it is natural: Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener found in the fibers of many fruits and vegetables, including various berries, corn husks, oats, and mushrooms. It can be extracted from corn fiber, birch, raspberries, plums, and corn.
I just found that when I had really bad cravings it was better to chew some gum than eat, despite the junk in gum. But you're right, if you're trying to avoid sweeteners gum is probably a bad idea. Ricola, too. But I figured it was trace amounts if I only chewed a couple a day.
ponderific
· 2 years ago
Well done on losing the weight. Your tips are very inspiring. Have you any views on detox diets?
Chad
· 2 years ago
Hey...
I found this page via StumbleUpon, and it gripped my attention immediately. It was like reading my own thoughts!
I am a formerly morbidly obese man, who is down 90 pounds thanks to the wonders of the magic dieting plan called moving more and eating less.
I admit I kind of scanned the #'s once I realized that there were 100 of them... so this might have been covered, but I want to encourage any and all people who want to lose weight with 3 points:
1. The author's 1st point is 100% accurate. You will only lose weight when you reach a point of decision that you want to be fit. Addicts call this moment, "Touching bottom." It's the moment of clarity where you admit that you have a problem. Have this moment. It will free you. You are your problem. Don't blame McDonald's, Osama Bin-Ladin, George Bush, or your mom's fat side of the family from Alabama.
It's your fault. I say that with all compassion, because my parents taught me terribly about food. It was still my fault.
2. Exercise becomes fun, fast. I began my new life at age 29. Up until this point, I had never run a full quarter of a mile. I weighed 318.5 pounds. I now weigh 226 pounds, which I know is still too high, but I am 6'2 and large framed, but later today I am genuinely looking forward to running six miles.
No, really.
I used to distract myself with my iPod when I ran, which I heartily recommend to newbies, but after just a short time, you find yourself deriving pleasure from exercise. It really doesn't take that long. The human body is an astonishing mechanism. Yes you, your fat, tired body is a machine waiting to be unleashed. I am a professional songwriter, and when I run, I get all my good lyrics. My mind is clear, focused, and my senses are heightened. I promise you, I swear to you, that the pain of weight loss is far outstripped by the pleasure (also see Michael's point #94). :)
I wrote this song on a run... sorry for shameless self promotion.
3. Your taste buds change. I don't care if you believe in God or Mother Nature or whatever, but we were created / evolved to be extraordinary. You can change your taste buds. Isn't that a miracle?
Occasionally, if I'm feeling self indulgent, I will go get a Double Western Bacon Cheeseburger from Carl's Jr. I used to eat 3-4 of these a week. Every time I do this, I'm struck with the reality that it doesn't taste good to me anymore. After I eat it, it sits in my stomach, and my body protests for hours.
When my body cries out for food, I crave.... salad. I truly crave it. I love how it crunches. I love the texture and variety of the tastes. I love how I feel after I eat one. BTW, all of the advice about salad and dressing is spot on. That ranch dressing is not your friend.
Granted, it's taken me 18 months to get here, but what's 18 months compared to your whole life? Think back 18 months. Not that long, right? Were you fat back then? Are you fat now? What if you were fat now, but you looked back on the greatest year and a half of your life by the spring of 2009?
Meh... too much talk. Sorry. I get excited about this.
THERE'S A NEW LIFE FOR YOU OUT THERE!!!! GO GET IT! :)
guinness416
· 2 years ago
Is #30 correct? I know that we feel bloated if we eat before bedtime, but isn't all that matters the calories in/calories expended over the long haul ..... if I eat a sandwich at 9pm, go to bed at 10pm and work out at 6am is that any different than eating the sandwich at 9pm and working out at 10pm? (Disregarding the issue of optimal pre- and post-workout snacks).
Livingalmostlarge
· 2 years ago
Wow, I am motivated. I guess I'm in that category of hitting rock bottom. I have had people suggest losing weight, but until now I haven't done it whole heartedly. And now I am.
I went to Weight Watchers alone. I made a friend my second week there, and now I am motivated to keep going. It helps keep me accountable having a bad week, well I still have to go. It's just a scale.
I wonder is it harder to do this with an unsupportive spouse? My spouse is one who never gains weight and so he doesn't get the struggles. I can't even convince him to give up soda. He says it doesn't hurt you. NOTHING I say or beg to will convince him.
He even mentions how much soda he drank growing up, everyday all day from like 2 or 3 years old and look at how thin and fit he still is.
bripblap
· 2 years ago
@ponderific (#16): I do in fact have some views on detox diets. I am slowly working my way into a largely raw food diet, with vegetarian (cooked) food the rest of the diet and an occasional meat meal when visiting relatives, etc. (maybe once every week or two). The raw food diet is amazing to the small extent I've tried it - I've had HUGE increases in energy, digestive "calmness", etc. I have tried other detox methods with less success, although I highly recommend Dr. Natura's Colonix system (http://www.drnatura.com/) which I do once a year with fantastic results. I'll probably have a post on the subject of detoxing in general soon.
@Chad: That's a fantastic story - truly inspirational!
@Guinness416: the theory is simply that since your body starts "starving" overnight and goes after carbs, then fat, if you haven't added carbs to your system 'recently' there is a better chance it will burn through to fat. It's a very, very minor difference, granted, but I think there's SOME validity to it. Add to that the fact that most carbs are just heavier and harder to digest and it could simply mean a better digestive experience.
@Livingalmostlarge: the main success of Weight Watchers is the public accountability. You have to declare your success or failure in front of others, and it's motivating. It is terribly, terribly difficult to do with an unsupportive spouse. It is hard to quit something that bothers you but doesn't bother your spouse. If I dance around eating chocolate in front of my wife, it bothers her - if she eats a pizza while I eat a fruit salad it's tough. Having support is critical beyond belief when losing weight. I don't know your personal situation well enough to offer much advice, but I will say that negative influences are negative influences, no matter what their source, and negative influences are incompatible with support and love. Try to lean heavily on WW if that's helping you. It's helped a LOT of people.
Good comments everyone, and if this list helps ANYONE with ANYTHING I'll be happy. Email me if you have other questions, or leave more comments!
louise
· 2 years ago
Thanks for this great post! I am findgin losing weight harder than eliminating debt just at the moment. i think I might print this out and stick it up where I can read it each day.
mariam
· 2 years ago
I haven't even read the post but already I'm impressed! 101, wow!
*Scrolls up to read*
Margaret
· 2 years ago
Interesting list, great comments. I thought #69 was hilarious (thor's shield). I just read the book Mindless Eating: Why We Eat More Than We Think by Brian Wansink (having read articles by or about him in a few magazines recently). It was interesting and very readable. His exeriments show many ways that we underestimate how much we eat and things that influence us to eat more. I read it more as an interesting book on the science of eating, but he does include tips for weight loss. A great read even just to be aware of how our environment gets us to eat more or less food.
I've been in a weight loss group on Yahoo. It's slow, but I had lost about 15 pounds at the beginning of the year (currently pregnant, so weight loss on hold for now), and the things that helped me were: the JUST ONE rule -- if you are used to eating your oatmeal porridge with two pieces of toast, try having just one piece of toast. You may end up satisfied instead of stuffed. Or if you are having a snack, fine, but JUST ONE. Do not make anything FORBIDDEN, or you will immediately obsess about it. If I say I can never go to McDonald's again, I then spend the next three days thinking about it until I can find an excuse to get to town and go, at which point I order EVERYTHING that I am never going to be able to have again. Ug. If I tell myself I can go, but not right now, then I am fine without it. Also, I started walking on a treadmill, and after only a month, I was adding in a minute of jogging here and there, and I didn't even hate it. That was probably the biggest shock. Another thing that helps, I think, is making a point of drinking lots of water. Not that I think water is magical or anything, but if I am drinking my water, I simply have less time/inclination to drink other calorie filled beverages. The big thing our group has found is to use MODERATION, and to go in baby steps.
Good luck to everyone!
Kim
· 2 years ago
Good list; I've found most to be true for me as well. I've recently lost apx. 50 pounds and I'm learning daily about maintaining the loss. It is a battle! I've gone up 4 pounds recently and I get worried that it's the beginning of the end, but I just take a deep breath and get back to the basics that helped me lose it all in the first place. I'll get it back off, even with Thanksgiving around the corner, and get back to my goal weight. Thanks for the encouragement just when I needed it!
Debbie
· 2 years ago
Thank you. I'm going to print this list out. At about twice my ideal weight, I need all the motivation I can get.
Chelsea Freeman
· 2 years ago
This was so incredibly inspiring and very informative! Thank you!!! Exactly what we needed to here! chelsea aka mcdonald's addict
Rikke
· 2 years ago
Thank you:)
Being a couch potato the "eat less, exercise more" always gets to me...luckily!
Wilma
· 2 years ago
I resent your referral to the Native Americans as the enemies - - that keep coming! It was the WHITE people that kept coming and introduced the FATTY, UNHEALTHY foods. Get your historical facts straight!
Steve
· 2 years ago
@Wilma: Since it was simply a metaphor and not meant as a literal reference to Native Americans bringing fatty foods into the world, I won't really make any claim to that being a historical fact. It was just the first example of an overwhelming force that came to mind - no intention to be literal. Sorry if you took offense, but it certainly wasn't meant the way you read it!
Anais
· 2 years ago
Wonderful list with lots of great points! I've lost 125 pounds myself - I started by going to a 12-step group which led me to a much cleaner way of eating. I gave up sugar (in all forms!), flour, and caffeine right away. Later, I also omitted wheat and artificial sweeteners and a week ago I became an ovo-vegetarian. I'm 37 years old and feel better than I ever have in my life!
Steve
· 2 years ago
@Anais: that's fantastic - losing 125 pounds is an amazing achievement! Keep up the good work :)
Rachelle
· 2 years ago
I have to disagree with at least the part about ignoring the expense. I suppose if I starved my children or lived in my car it would be okay as long as I was skinny? That wouldn't make any sense. Neither does ignoring the ultra high cost of "diet foods".
Steve
· 2 years ago
@Rachelle - I'm not suggesting starving or living in your car in order to be skinny. I AM, however, suggesting that canceling cable in order to eat healthy might be worth it. If you save money but stay unhealthy and overweight and die at 50, you're not helping anyone.
Cross the River
· 2 years ago
#67 Right on!!!
Writer's Coin
· 1 year ago
I can't stand when everyone chimes in with their opinions on weight loss (or any other thing that's hard to change, actually). I'm curious what you think of this post on making gradual, real changes in our lives. I wouldn't know, but does it apply to weight loss too?
bubelah
· 1 year ago
Steve's before and after pictures are a big motivator for someone who wants to lose weight. I would NEVER ever look twice at the old Steve if I met him when he was overweight... And that said, I would never learn of his wonderful personality and character. But, luckily for me I met him when he already lost weight and looked his handsomest. Even my co-workers had to comment on how cute my boyfriend was ;o) Nice complement for me, yes....
Danny Tsang
· 1 year ago
How in the world did I miss this awesome post?? Thats a great list and the before and after pics is such a world of difference. You look much younger without the weight too. Congrats I'm certainly bookmarking this list I need to shed a few pounds I went overboard during the past few months.
Money Matters
· 1 year ago
I am on day 2 of my 2nd weight loss journey.. Last year i lost 40 pounds through healthy eating and exercise. I then promptly gained back 15 in the last few months. Now i'm going to lose the last 25 pounds i need to be back at my high school weight. Thanks for the motivation!
Susie
· 1 year ago
Congratulations on your weight loss--intentionally weight loss is never easy, although I disagree with some of what you surmise based on your personal experience. I'm fat, healthy, happy, & active (including my sex life). I realize that most people can't accept, much less come to love and admire, their own fat body, but there are some of us who love our bodies just as they are! I've lost weight (due to illness) in the past, and thought my body looked odd & mishapen. I strongly prefer my fully filled-out curves!
Steve (Brip Blap)
· 1 year ago
@Susie: I would be the last person ever to criticize people who are comfortable with themselves. As long as you are healthy - and that's a big if, if you are overweight - then the important thing is to be comfortable in your skin. I actually lost almost 150 pounds at my maximum weight loss and it was too much - I felt a lot better when I put back on some weight. So don't worry, I agree with you completely. Lose enough weight to be healthy, but don't worry about conforming to society's expectations if it makes YOU unhappy. That's a given!
Dana
· 1 year ago
Ha, I guess Dr. Atkins was only a starting point for you! :P I don't find that all calories behave the same for me, though. I kept track of calories and everything else on SparkPeople for several days and found that if I ate high-fat and got in 2000 to 2900 calories a day, I still lost weight. That doesn't make sense if all calories are the same. From what I understand, the macronutrients (carbs, protein, and fat) do not metabolize in the same way, and cannot be stored in the same way, and if you're in ketosis to boot, the part of your fat (body and dietary) that gets turned into ketones sure can't be stored again. Dr. Atkins referred to that as "sneaking calories out of the body." He wasn't too far off the mark.
I just... find it excruciatingly difficult to stick with it. If it's not people telling me it's unhealthy then it's my little girl's dad bringing crap over he knows I shouldn't eat. And I place way too much of my responsibility in other people's hands. That said, I also believe in taking something of a hacker's approach to life--instead of working against innate tendencies, working with them. In that vein, you don't bring a dieter's favorite off-limits foods into their home, and you don't try to advise them against a particular diet plan if you have not read up on it (directly from the source) yourself. That kind of thing.
As for my own responsibility and motivation I am still trying to figure that one out, because I sure do need to lose 100 pounds. Unlike a previous commenter, being fat is not my natural state and I still am not used to it. It's got to go.
Diane Eats the Elephant
· 1 year ago
Wow - found you thru another blog, finance related, and had to read this one on 101 thoughts on losing weight because I have a blog I started to help others struggling with this - beginning with how I lost then regained and figured out this time what I need to do to keep it off. I loved #91 above, re comparing this can of coke to a day of life. My favorite one is the - often yucky - birthday cake. There will be another one. It's not worth undoing all you've done to have that (piece of cake) and it will be there when you are ready for it. Agree with whomever said not to completely forbid stuff (from the Yahoo group I believe) - I think of it is as postponing to a better time when I will have something.
So far, I am mostly trying to help those struggling and not figuring out that they have not really yet made the commitment to lose weight. Trying to get your finances in order AND trying to lose weight in the same year - as two separate goals - can't be done well. However, this year - having lost the weight last year - my financial goal has pieces to it that says that I am not going to waste the money spent on weight loss last year by "losing" what I had "gained" by gaining weight again (that would be a bad financial decision).
Many of the same tactics I have read on blogs for finance and blogs for writing that are related to goals all seem to reference the ones for "dieting" - I look at this more as a lifestyle change, which is what you have described. I also did Atkins, and still keep carbs low, while modifying what I eat with more heart-healthy foods related to what is important for my own body, while still choosing tasty foods. I also now teach zumba - an excellent combo of cardio and fitness (standing crunches, squats, while in cardio), and still measure my water by 32 oz bottles. No day is perfect because I don't have to live so stringently now - my body gives me clues as to what is good and what is "off" and feeling good is the best reward!
I am going to link this article/blog to mine so that it opens up other thoughts for readers of mine - many of the comments here are really good and motivating as well. I think support groups are a great way to connect with others. I can vouch for e*diets groups, but it sounds like the yahoo group may be just as good for support, and perhaps more affordable. Using the blogs may be another way that someone can find comfort in community and kindred spirits when the urge strikes to eat as a solution to a non-hungry problem.
Thanks for posting about your experiences and sharing your pics!
Diane
J.D.
· 1 year ago
I'm not sure how I missed this when you published it, but it's awesome. Thank you. I'm at the beginning of my own weight-loss quest, and this list has lots of great suggestions. I look forward to putting some of them to use. Thanks, Brip-Blap!
Lori
· 1 year ago
Those are some great tips! May I just say how AWESOME you look today? I hope this doesn't offend you, but the "new" you looks like he could be the son of the "old" you. Amazing what losing weight can do! Seriously, you've inspired me.
Just had to go take another look- has anyone ever told you that you now look like Anthony Edwards, only cuter?
Steve (Brip Blap)
· 1 year ago
@Lori - I just wanted to say thank you - that was quite the ego-boosting comment! Seriously, I really struggled with my weight loss so getting a compliment like that means A LOT to me. I am willing to bet there is nobody on this planet who doesn't feel better when someone tells them they look "awesome".
Thanks so much, you made my day :)
Dede
· 1 year ago
Wow, thank you for the great and inspiring ideas. I guess I'll put down my chocolate cake now!
jj
· 1 year ago
good list, but no milk?!?! new research has show that milk actually helps people lose weight. obviously you're not a doctor and just listing what worked for you but hopefully people follow that advice too closely
Steve (Brip Blap)
· 1 year ago
@jj: I am certainly no doctor, and it's certainly a list of MY thoughts on losing 101 pounds - I don't think I presented it otherwise. I'll stick by my milk suggestion, though - for most people, it's not a weight loss aid. The studies you refer to were paid for by the National Dairy Council (the NDC has spent $200 million since 2003 to promote the idea that milk can help people lose weight. Some research has suggested that calcium or other elements in milk may cause the body to make less fat and speed its elimination, but the studies produced mixed results.) Read more here.
komodo dragon
· 1 year ago
WOW! good job, most people do not have the determination and inspiration to stick it our like you did and actually shed those pounds! As they say : " no pain no gain" you gotta lose some of the good to get to the great :P
Danielle
· 1 year ago
I find it funny that you support substituting cow milk for soy milk, and support the consumption of cheese at the same time. Just a thought. Congratulations on your success, though. You look great.
Steve
· 1 year ago
@Danielle: Thanks! Actually that's a good point, and to elaborate a bit - milk has lactose, and cheese generally doesn't. Lactose is exceptionally hard to digest for humans. So it isn't dairy so much as specifically the drink, milk. Dairy is generally OK (butter, cheese, etc.).
Nadine
· 1 year ago
I agree that you should limit carbs (I lose more and feel less hungry). I was a patient of Dr. Atkins back in the 80's. Not a good idea for someone whose family has a morbid history of heart disease. And if anyone noticed, Dr. Atkins was overweight when he died. Eventually I found a happy medium, got it off and kept it off. And sorry to have to tell you this, you need to exercise. You don't have to be Ah-nold, just do some movement that you enjoy every day. Walking is great (and not to McDonalds). And it does make you feel better.
"Never eat more than you can lift." Miss Piggy
kay
· 1 year ago
this list is excellent. reading it just kept me from going to get another piece of my daughter's birthday cake!
cohnsey
· 1 year ago
Very inspirational, thank you for the great thoughts!
Paul Aitchison
· 1 year ago
This is brilliant. I am in the middle of a diet regime 'The Burn Fat 4 Dummies' plan and i have already lost 8 Ibs in 10 days, but this is amazing and has helped to motivate me further to lose more weight. thanks for this.
Gemma
· 1 year ago
Many of the things on this list contradict what my doctor reccommended that I do... And as for saying that we don't "need red meat", well, actually, we do. That's how the human was designed. That's how the back teeth are designed. Also, red meat is harder to digest, which keeps you feeling fuller for longer.
But, I do have to agree: running is a good thing. Something you didn't mention (or maybe I missed it) is that running may also help fight off heart problems. It's hard to run, though, if you have asthma.
Juan Carlos
· 1 year ago
recently went through number 79. Hard
Juan Carlos
· 1 year ago
recently wen through number 79. Hard
Paunchiness
· 1 year ago
Good work on the weight loss and a nice list of things most people forget about when trying to lose.
Stephanie
· 1 year ago
Thank you so much for this post. I've lost 40 lbs, and have another 50 to go before my target weight, and I found myself extremely amused by your list. All of it is true! Every single one!!
You've reminded me to keep a watch on my carbs, and keep up with my veggie/fruit intake, thank you! You are a great inspiration! <3
Stephanie
· 1 year ago
After thinking on your post some more, and browsing the comments, I wanted to add that I'm really proud you're so knowledgeable about nutrition. I've read several books involving diet, nutrition and exercise, and everything you talk about -- Milk ads being paid for by the NDC, lactose in milk being difficult to digest -- are all things that I've read before and know are true.
As a lone dieter in a sea of overweight fast-fooders, I feel awkward sharing my knowledge, and silently berating co-workers who get Doritos out of the vending machines every day. Knowledge about successful weight loss has been amazing for me, but it leaves me depressed that the rest of the world doesn't know what they're doing to themselves.
I'm proud of you for your weight loss (you look absolutely incredibly, and extremely handsome!), and for beefing up your knowledge, it makes me not feel so alone!
neimanmarxist
· 1 year ago
i am curious. you did atkins, but you seem to be concerned with calories as well. we are vegan so atkins is off - limits for us - we get our protein from beans & tofu, sometimes (homemade) seitan. what is your average caloric intake in weight maintenance? I am still working on my last 5 lbs (to be 125 lbs. ) @1400 calories/day. I know numbers for a girl are different but I am interested in whether you get to eat more calories if you are low-carb.
Insanity540
· 1 year ago
thanks for the awesome post. Its motivated me into getting back on track with my weight loss.
I'm currently 235 pounds and looking to loose about 50 pounds by xmas. I'm hoping that with your 101 thoughts and exercise I'll be able to achieve that.
Thanks again, Insanity540
Game Economy
· 1 year ago
Wow! This list couldn't have come at a better time. Summer is coming to a close and my goals are still not reached. Normally I shy away from printing anything, but this one deserves to be printed and stuck on the firdge! Thanks!
Weight Loss Tips
· 1 year ago
I saw this quick weight loss tips in some site - but the list here is comprehensive. i always believed that losing weight is a matter of changing your lifestyle. its not just diet and exercise - although including that in your daily routine is important. Whats more important is you do not think of weight loss as a "timed project". Just decide what things are good for your body and just do it over a period of time. do it slowly - do not try lose weight in 5 days or 20 days or 30 days - just do it gradually - and that's the only way you will be able to "keep the weight off" - otherwise you are just kidding yourself!
George Yeo
· 1 year ago
Oh man, this list is sooo comprehensive. I am gonna add a few to my own list. Btw, I have to agree on #8 on diet sodas. Aspartame is still sooo unsafe, wonder why was it even approved in the first place?
And you sure both pics are yours? If so, that's a real motivator for those looking to lose weight. Good job there! It's all about hard work!
Amanda
· 12 months ago
Thank you for 65! I enjoy having something other than water to drink in the house, but I usually find my fruit juices sweeter than necessary, and I go through them too quickly. This is a really good tip.
Christy
· 11 months ago
I can completely see where you are coming from. I lost 100 pounds in 2 months when I was going through a divorce. I managed to keep it off for 3 years, but I have slowly gained it back with each child I've had. (a 4 year old, 3 year old, & 1 year old) I swore that I would never be big again because I felt fantastic after losing the weight. BUT, here I am again. I know I would feel better, but it's hard to take that first step because it makes you feel like you are "giving up" the good stuff. All I can say is that the rewards are worth it & your quality of life is so much better as the weight melts away. My husband is deployed so I plan on shaping up for his return this summer.
weight loss diets
· 11 months ago
Many now interests how correctly to eat. The number of the people dissatisfied with thefigure or health recently has increased and, as consequence, trying to get rid of excessweight. You should pick up a diet approaching you, and also learn to make correctlybalanced diet.
joao
· 11 months ago
At one time I lost 77pounds of pure flab. Now that I work in a diferent area, with diferent schedulles it is much harder to keep the weight off. I was in an internship in a nice office where I had to mantain computers, and now I'm a cashier at a local supermarket. The really odd schedulles kill your dieting plans. So much so that I've almost gained all of the weight I had lost.
Not a lot of time for the bathroom, so got to kill the water intake... :(
I've always cringed at exercise and I tell myself the same thing every time. I'll gain a lot of my dorment muscle again. If you've ever been a weight-lifter and gotten into shape ONLY because of that. It'll take about 2 years with the right set... You'll look great, but if you're already 6 feet tall; AND you're buff... It won't be great to visit your local clothing store.
Most people that don't want to loose pounds with exercise and snack all the time. Even as a meal! I'm guilty of that...
Water is going to be your all time snack. After exercise of any kind... Drink water and do not eat food! Wait! To loose stomach, or gut if you want to call it. It's actually easy... Use chi kung breathing exercises or any martial arts breathing exercises. Compressing your stomach muscles while you breath for any portion of time will make a diference. The lower abdominal area nearest to your legs is the hardest and most rewarding, because it'll almost never be fat again. You might get fat and flab will drop and cover it, but no past that point.
This exercise you have to picture... Really tall pillow, and must be hard enough to keep your upper body raised off the floor. Put your chest on it, hands beneath your face. Watch TV or something.... Just lie down with your upper body raised enough to stretch your entire stomach. That is it! Your own body weight will generally make you use your stomach to breath instead of your chest. The stretching will make you use the lower abdominal muscles even more. Just depends on how high that pillow is. I mean really high! You should feel like you could easilly keep something the size of your own head under your stomach. Just watch out for your back.
My weight loss had only a few musts. - Drink only water. No sweets, or bread (only rarely for both) Less of every food. Avoid sauces. Almost no meat. (Make the amount of meat on your plate look ridiculous) -
All cravings should first be tackled with water. Just keep it around...
PS.: Sorry for the huge comment.. =)
Sanchia
· 10 months ago
Thanks for spending the time writing up your tips for us, absolutely invaluable information! Congratulations on the weight loss too.
Sandy
· 10 months ago
Great information - thanks for sharing!
Sandy
jason
· 10 months ago
THis is a very interesting list. I lost 130 lbs using WW and have finished several marathons now. Airplane seats are much more comfy now. HAHAHA :)
chad
· 9 months ago
101. You look way younger. Holy crap you look like married with kids to college.
Gabriel
· 9 months ago
Thanks so much for your support of Atkins. I convinced my Dad to go on it because I was worried about his cardiac profile (to all those other people: Atkins is actually great for your heart health). He's lost 40 lbs, lowered his cholesterol, and has reduced some of his medication.
So happy that there's someone out there who doesn't just dismiss it out of hand. Pat your self on the back!
Some good authors to read: Gary Taubes, Dana Carpender, Mike Eades
Kiefer
· 9 months ago
I congratulate you on loosing the weight, and you have some good points in your post.
And you are absolutely correct about only you can make the decision to loose weight, it has to be from desire, and necessity to properly motivate you.
It seems that you have had a hard time loosing that weight by reading your list.
This is because you did not eat a balanced diet consisting of lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and good fats.
You say that working a 9 to 5 job caused problems eating six times a day was annoying.
You don’t have to eat equally proportioned meals, all you have to do is eat fruits, vegetables, nuts, and they are simple and quick.
Its not about making you feel less hungry its about keeping your insulin levels balanced so you don’t crave food.
Never ever drink soda its toxic, if you need something sweet try a teaspoon of raw honey instead.
And if you truly want to keep that weight off you need to do weight bearing exercises to build lean muscle.
Lean muscle burns body fat 24 hours a day!
REL
· 7 months ago
# Caffeine is an appetite suppressant. Using a suppressant to diet is like using speed to quit crack. You have to conquer this thing on your own. # Drinking green tea and herbal teas is good for you, and it keeps you feeling full.
LMAO
Also... milk has been PROVEN to help people lose weight. Several other things on your list were either questionable or blatantly ridiculous.
With that said, there ARE some good tips on here.
Spry chewing gum is my best friend.
Steve
· 7 months ago
@REL: I'm not sure who's proven that milk helps people lose weight. The first study I found when I googled milk weight loss (http://is.gd/wF00) seemed dismissive of that claim.
As always, the list is simply my thoughts. I don't claim to be an expert - these were simply my own thoughts on my own weight loss experience.
Christian
· 7 months ago
Hey Steve! Great post. I lost 80 pounds last year myself and are now at the mantaining-the-weight part. Found your post though Stumble and must say I'm happy I did.
I had a couple of smirks and laughs going through your thoughts as they made me realize that my journey appearently wasn't that different than it is for other dieters.
Anyway, thanks for the great post; it'll go directly to my permanent DIET-collection... along with that framed before-after picture set :-)
Take care! Christian (Germany)
Julia Breton
· 5 months ago
This is an amazing list. I have been pushing myself to walk an hour a day for the past few weeks, and have already started to feel that my pants size is feeling a little loose. While I can't see the differences yet, my clothes are looser on me, so it helps to reinforce that the long walks are working.
chimera34
· 5 months ago
I Love this LIST
B
· 4 months ago
Your story and tips were so inspiring. I've gained over 80 pounds in the last 2 years from medication and going away to college. What you've said here has truly motivated me. I am excited to wake up tomorrow morning with a new outlook on dieting. Thanks again and congrats on your amazing weight loss :)
Charlotte From Australia
· 4 months ago
thanks for this! its good to hear from someone who has actually lost the weight themselves, and you have! 100 pounds is amazing. this page is an inspiration to me.
andrew
· 4 months ago
I dont mean to be rude, but there these tips on losing weight sound like you someone who has an eating disorder. I'm currently battling anorexia, and many of those sound like the tricks and tips people with an ED use...
Steve
· 4 months ago
@andrew: I'd be curious to know which tips sound like ED problems.... I don't think I have an eating disorder since this tips restored me to a (physician-approved) healthy (not anorexic) weight.
Hannah
· 4 months ago
To be fair, I see Andew's point: I also did many of these things when I was anorexic. I think the only difference is in the quantity (I'm going to hope you weren't eating less than 1000 calories a day whilst losing your 100 pounds). Aside from your carb hatred, I think all of these tips sound valid, when done in moderation.
Hannah
· 4 months ago
For most of the world, carbs make up 50% of the average daily food intake. Humans are carb-eaters, and not doing so is (depending upon one's specific genetic makeup) unnatural and unhealthy. It will also lead to yo-yo-ing once one goes off their low-carb diet.
It isn't the amount of carbs that's the problem, it's the type. I like this list, but I'd amend it to state that refined, "white" carbs such as refined sugars, white bread, white rice, and regular pasta are bad, while up to 50% of one's food may be derived from whole, unrefined carbs such as brown rice, pulses, whole grain anything, and fruit.
Steve
· 4 months ago
@Hannah: Well, I was eating far more than 1000 calories a day when I was losing the weight, it was simply all non-carb calories. And I'd argue that refined carbs are the worst, but when you're in a weight-loss mode - not weight-maintenance - carbs are not useful. Once I hit my ideal weight, I worked non-white carbs back in - but on a weight-loss regimen, even whole wheat carbs slow down weight loss. Humans ARE carb eaters, but carb avoidance puts you in the ketosis state that kick-starts weight loss. I wouldn't go low-carb long term, at all - I eat carbs today - but if you are trying to lose I think you should avoid them.
Everyone should do what works for them. Carb avoidance worked for me. I still ate a healthy, normal caloric intake (lots of meat, cheese and leafy greens) but simply avoided carbs. Low-carb doesn't work for my wife, for example - she seems to do better on low-fat. I do very well on low-carb. Different people are different - that's why everyone should consult with a physician or dietician or other professional before doing a serious weight loss program (....I did).
Ruth
· 4 months ago
Why do carb reduction diets have such a bad rap? I'm sorry, but for many people, myself included, going on an induction diet for three or four weeks can take off ten pounds or more. I get a complete blood work-up each year, and every year my doctor is amazed at my high levels of good cholesterol as opposed to my low levels of bad cholesterol. I curb my carbs, that's it. That's my whole secret and there's nothing anorexic about it.
Yes, 50% of the world's diet now may be carbs, but prehistoric man was mostly eating proteins and foraged fruits and nuts. There was no wheat. There were no potatoes. Carbs are not what we are biologically meant to eat. There's nothing in the least weird about keeping carbohydrates at the bottom of the food triangle.
Steve
· 4 months ago
@Ruth, @Hannah: And to add on Ruth's comments, yes - humans are naturally meat and foraged vegetable-and-nut eaters. Processed whole grains and other carbs were later in the evolutionary cycle. Meat and raw veggies and nuts are the core, caveman menu.
But that having been said, the post is "my thoughts" and nothing more, as I say repeatedly throughout the post.... worked for me and nothing more.
Kevin
· 4 months ago
I'm bookmarking this...this is really good stuff. Thanks.
Laura
· 3 months ago
#34 is so true. I started measuring my cereal when I began losing weight. It seemed like such a small amount compared to what I used to eat, which was probably an entire bowl. :/
And to #10 I stopped eating chips and when I put one in my mouth after a few months of going without the oily texture tasted pretty bad.
These are all very good thoughts. Thanks for sharing them.
MichaelBoBichael
· 2 months ago
"Milk does not work into any diet plan be it low-fat, low-calorie, low-carb. Avoid it. Soymilk is better for you."
I can't disagree more with that one.
The other bits of advice are generally good but I stay away from soy as much as I do from corn syrup and deep fried starchy foods. I've lost a hundred pounds myself by staying away from most carbs and eating sensibly and I have kept it off for over a year now.
I count soy as a carb and like most beans it is essentially poisonous until cooked. Cooked it still contains trace amounts of ricin. No thanks. I'll pass.
margaretwilde
· 2 months ago
Overweight people who reduce their salt/sodium intake lose some water from the body and therefore lose weight and lower their blood pressure. Eating more fruit and vegetables results in greater and faster loss of weight and further lowering of blood pressure because the potassium in the fruit and vegetables helps to displace sodium from the body.
All Comments
Oh, and I did #75 last night. Because I'm an idiot.
I'm going through the process now of losing weight again- after getting really fat about 6 years ago I got my act together and lost 50 pounds. A couple of months ago I realized I had gained back 61 pounds! And I swore I would never get fat again after the first time...
Jogging is easier when you have good shoes.
I'll add that jogging (or any activity for that matter) is easier with less weight to carry (or bounce) around.
Mike
That's amazing that you've lost 100 pounds. Most people don't have the heart to stick with it like you have.
My favorite is #59. Most people don't know the rule about meat the size of your palm as being a proportion. Splurging seems like the American way to eat, so most keep truckin' ahead like that!
@Mike: yeah, good jogging shoes go hand in hand with "not dragging around an excess 20 pounds while running." I've had a bad running summer and I badly need to get back into race shape, not just jogging shape - which is bad timing considering winter's coming and I'm not the greatest cold weather runner.
Mike
gum is good but they contain artificial sweeteners also. so you have to be careful and chew in moderation.
@sfordinarygirl: Yeah, I debated gum, but there are a few that don't contain artificial sweeteners. You have to look long and hard, but there are some. Orbit has xylitol as a sweetener, and while I'll confess some ignorance about long-term effects of xylitol it is natural: Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener found in the fibers of many fruits and vegetables, including various berries, corn husks, oats, and mushrooms. It can be extracted from corn fiber, birch, raspberries, plums, and corn.
I just found that when I had really bad cravings it was better to chew some gum than eat, despite the junk in gum. But you're right, if you're trying to avoid sweeteners gum is probably a bad idea. Ricola, too. But I figured it was trace amounts if I only chewed a couple a day.
I found this page via StumbleUpon, and it gripped my attention immediately. It was like reading my own thoughts!
I am a formerly morbidly obese man, who is down 90 pounds thanks to the wonders of the magic dieting plan called moving more and eating less.
I admit I kind of scanned the #'s once I realized that there were 100 of them... so this might have been covered, but I want to encourage any and all people who want to lose weight with 3 points:
1. The author's 1st point is 100% accurate. You will only lose weight when you reach a point of decision that you want to be fit. Addicts call this moment, "Touching bottom." It's the moment of clarity where you admit that you have a problem. Have this moment. It will free you. You are your problem. Don't blame McDonald's, Osama Bin-Ladin, George Bush, or your mom's fat side of the family from Alabama.
It's your fault. I say that with all compassion, because my parents taught me terribly about food. It was still my fault.
2. Exercise becomes fun, fast. I began my new life at age 29. Up until this point, I had never run a full quarter of a mile. I weighed 318.5 pounds. I now weigh 226 pounds, which I know is still too high, but I am 6'2 and large framed, but later today I am genuinely looking forward to running six miles.
No, really.
I used to distract myself with my iPod when I ran, which I heartily recommend to newbies, but after just a short time, you find yourself deriving pleasure from exercise. It really doesn't take that long. The human body is an astonishing mechanism. Yes you, your fat, tired body is a machine waiting to be unleashed. I am a professional songwriter, and when I run, I get all my good lyrics. My mind is clear, focused, and my senses are heightened. I promise you, I swear to you, that the pain of weight loss is far outstripped by the pleasure (also see Michael's point #94). :)
I wrote this song on a run... sorry for shameless self promotion.
http://tinyurl.com/39of5d
3. Your taste buds change. I don't care if you believe in God or Mother Nature or whatever, but we were created / evolved to be extraordinary. You can change your taste buds. Isn't that a miracle?
Occasionally, if I'm feeling self indulgent, I will go get a Double Western Bacon Cheeseburger from Carl's Jr. I used to eat 3-4 of these a week. Every time I do this, I'm struck with the reality that it doesn't taste good to me anymore. After I eat it, it sits in my stomach, and my body protests for hours.
When my body cries out for food, I crave.... salad. I truly crave it. I love how it crunches. I love the texture and variety of the tastes. I love how I feel after I eat one. BTW, all of the advice about salad and dressing is spot on. That ranch dressing is not your friend.
Granted, it's taken me 18 months to get here, but what's 18 months compared to your whole life? Think back 18 months. Not that long, right? Were you fat back then? Are you fat now? What if you were fat now, but you looked back on the greatest year and a half of your life by the spring of 2009?
Meh... too much talk. Sorry. I get excited about this.
THERE'S A NEW LIFE FOR YOU OUT THERE!!!! GO GET IT! :)
I went to Weight Watchers alone. I made a friend my second week there, and now I am motivated to keep going. It helps keep me accountable having a bad week, well I still have to go. It's just a scale.
I wonder is it harder to do this with an unsupportive spouse? My spouse is one who never gains weight and so he doesn't get the struggles. I can't even convince him to give up soda. He says it doesn't hurt you. NOTHING I say or beg to will convince him.
He even mentions how much soda he drank growing up, everyday all day from like 2 or 3 years old and look at how thin and fit he still is.
@Chad: That's a fantastic story - truly inspirational!
@Guinness416: the theory is simply that since your body starts "starving" overnight and goes after carbs, then fat, if you haven't added carbs to your system 'recently' there is a better chance it will burn through to fat. It's a very, very minor difference, granted, but I think there's SOME validity to it. Add to that the fact that most carbs are just heavier and harder to digest and it could simply mean a better digestive experience.
@Livingalmostlarge: the main success of Weight Watchers is the public accountability. You have to declare your success or failure in front of others, and it's motivating. It is terribly, terribly difficult to do with an unsupportive spouse. It is hard to quit something that bothers you but doesn't bother your spouse. If I dance around eating chocolate in front of my wife, it bothers her - if she eats a pizza while I eat a fruit salad it's tough. Having support is critical beyond belief when losing weight. I don't know your personal situation well enough to offer much advice, but I will say that negative influences are negative influences, no matter what their source, and negative influences are incompatible with support and love. Try to lean heavily on WW if that's helping you. It's helped a LOT of people.
Good comments everyone, and if this list helps ANYONE with ANYTHING I'll be happy. Email me if you have other questions, or leave more comments!
*Scrolls up to read*
I've been in a weight loss group on Yahoo. It's slow, but I had lost about 15 pounds at the beginning of the year (currently pregnant, so weight loss on hold for now), and the things that helped me were: the JUST ONE rule -- if you are used to eating your oatmeal porridge with two pieces of toast, try having just one piece of toast. You may end up satisfied instead of stuffed. Or if you are having a snack, fine, but JUST ONE. Do not make anything FORBIDDEN, or you will immediately obsess about it. If I say I can never go to McDonald's again, I then spend the next three days thinking about it until I can find an excuse to get to town and go, at which point I order EVERYTHING that I am never going to be able to have again. Ug. If I tell myself I can go, but not right now, then I am fine without it. Also, I started walking on a treadmill, and after only a month, I was adding in a minute of jogging here and there, and I didn't even hate it. That was probably the biggest shock. Another thing that helps, I think, is making a point of drinking lots of water. Not that I think water is magical or anything, but if I am drinking my water, I simply have less time/inclination to drink other calorie filled beverages. The big thing our group has found is to use MODERATION, and to go in baby steps.
Good luck to everyone!
chelsea aka mcdonald's addict
Being a couch potato the "eat less, exercise more" always gets to me...luckily!
I just... find it excruciatingly difficult to stick with it. If it's not people telling me it's unhealthy then it's my little girl's dad bringing crap over he knows I shouldn't eat. And I place way too much of my responsibility in other people's hands. That said, I also believe in taking something of a hacker's approach to life--instead of working against innate tendencies, working with them. In that vein, you don't bring a dieter's favorite off-limits foods into their home, and you don't try to advise them against a particular diet plan if you have not read up on it (directly from the source) yourself. That kind of thing.
As for my own responsibility and motivation I am still trying to figure that one out, because I sure do need to lose 100 pounds. Unlike a previous commenter, being fat is not my natural state and I still am not used to it. It's got to go.
So far, I am mostly trying to help those struggling and not figuring out that they have not really yet made the commitment to lose weight. Trying to get your finances in order AND trying to lose weight in the same year - as two separate goals - can't be done well. However, this year - having lost the weight last year - my financial goal has pieces to it that says that I am not going to waste the money spent on weight loss last year by "losing" what I had "gained" by gaining weight again (that would be a bad financial decision).
Many of the same tactics I have read on blogs for finance and blogs for writing that are related to goals all seem to reference the ones for "dieting" - I look at this more as a lifestyle change, which is what you have described. I also did Atkins, and still keep carbs low, while modifying what I eat with more heart-healthy foods related to what is important for my own body, while still choosing tasty foods. I also now teach zumba - an excellent combo of cardio and fitness (standing crunches, squats, while in cardio), and still measure my water by 32 oz bottles. No day is perfect because I don't have to live so stringently now - my body gives me clues as to what is good and what is "off" and feeling good is the best reward!
I am going to link this article/blog to mine so that it opens up other thoughts for readers of mine - many of the comments here are really good and motivating as well. I think support groups are a great way to connect with others. I can vouch for e*diets groups, but it sounds like the yahoo group may be just as good for support, and perhaps more affordable. Using the blogs may be another way that someone can find comfort in community and kindred spirits when the urge strikes to eat as a solution to a non-hungry problem.
Thanks for posting about your experiences and sharing your pics!
Diane
Just had to go take another look- has anyone ever told you that you now look like Anthony Edwards, only cuter?
Thanks so much, you made my day :)
new research has show that milk actually helps people lose weight. obviously you're not a doctor and just listing what worked for you but hopefully people follow that advice too closely
Just a thought.
Congratulations on your success, though. You look great.
"Never eat more than you can lift."
Miss Piggy
But, I do have to agree: running is a good thing. Something you didn't mention (or maybe I missed it) is that running may also help fight off heart problems. It's hard to run, though, if you have asthma.
You've reminded me to keep a watch on my carbs, and keep up with my veggie/fruit intake, thank you! You are a great inspiration! <3
As a lone dieter in a sea of overweight fast-fooders, I feel awkward sharing my knowledge, and silently berating co-workers who get Doritos out of the vending machines every day. Knowledge about successful weight loss has been amazing for me, but it leaves me depressed that the rest of the world doesn't know what they're doing to themselves.
I'm proud of you for your weight loss (you look absolutely incredibly, and extremely handsome!), and for beefing up your knowledge, it makes me not feel so alone!
I'm currently 235 pounds and looking to loose about 50 pounds by xmas. I'm hoping that with your 101 thoughts and exercise I'll be able to achieve that.
Thanks again,
Insanity540
And you sure both pics are yours? If so, that's a real motivator for those looking to lose weight. Good job there! It's all about hard work!
Now that I work in a diferent area, with diferent schedulles it is much harder to keep the weight off.
I was in an internship in a nice office where I had to mantain computers, and now I'm a cashier at a local supermarket. The really odd schedulles kill your dieting plans. So much so that I've almost gained all of the weight I had lost.
Not a lot of time for the bathroom, so got to kill the water intake... :(
I've always cringed at exercise and I tell myself the same thing every time.
I'll gain a lot of my dorment muscle again.
If you've ever been a weight-lifter and gotten into shape ONLY because of that.
It'll take about 2 years with the right set... You'll look great, but if you're already 6 feet tall; AND you're buff... It won't be great to visit your local clothing store.
Most people that don't want to loose pounds with exercise and snack all the time. Even as a meal! I'm guilty of that...
Water is going to be your all time snack.
After exercise of any kind... Drink water and do not eat food! Wait!
To loose stomach, or gut if you want to call it. It's actually easy...
Use chi kung breathing exercises or any martial arts breathing exercises.
Compressing your stomach muscles while you breath for any portion of time will make a diference. The lower abdominal area nearest to your legs is the hardest and most rewarding, because it'll almost never be fat again. You might get fat and flab will drop and cover it, but no past that point.
This exercise you have to picture... Really tall pillow, and must be hard enough to keep your upper body raised off the floor.
Put your chest on it, hands beneath your face. Watch TV or something....
Just lie down with your upper body raised enough to stretch your entire stomach.
That is it! Your own body weight will generally make you use your stomach to breath instead of your chest. The stretching will make you use the lower abdominal muscles even more. Just depends on how high that pillow is.
I mean really high! You should feel like you could easilly keep something the size of your own head under your stomach. Just watch out for your back.
My weight loss had only a few musts.
-
Drink only water.
No sweets, or bread (only rarely for both)
Less of every food.
Avoid sauces.
Almost no meat. (Make the amount of meat on your plate look ridiculous)
-
All cravings should first be tackled with water. Just keep it around...
PS.: Sorry for the huge comment.. =)
Sandy
So happy that there's someone out there who doesn't just dismiss it out of hand. Pat your self on the back!
Some good authors to read: Gary Taubes, Dana Carpender, Mike Eades
And you are absolutely correct about only you can make the decision to loose weight, it has to be from desire, and necessity to properly motivate you.
It seems that you have had a hard time loosing that weight by reading your list.
This is because you did not eat a balanced diet consisting of lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and good fats.
You say that working a 9 to 5 job caused problems eating six times a day was annoying.
You don’t have to eat equally proportioned meals, all you have to do is eat fruits, vegetables, nuts, and they are simple and quick.
Its not about making you feel less hungry its about keeping your insulin levels balanced so you don’t crave food.
Never ever drink soda its toxic, if you need something sweet try a teaspoon of raw honey instead.
And if you truly want to keep that weight off you need to do weight bearing exercises to build lean muscle.
Lean muscle burns body fat 24 hours a day!
# Drinking green tea and herbal teas is good for you, and it keeps you feeling full.
LMAO
Also... milk has been PROVEN to help people lose weight. Several other things on your list were either questionable or blatantly ridiculous.
With that said, there ARE some good tips on here.
Spry chewing gum is my best friend.
As always, the list is simply my thoughts. I don't claim to be an expert - these were simply my own thoughts on my own weight loss experience.
I had a couple of smirks and laughs going through your thoughts as they made me realize that my journey appearently wasn't that different than it is for other dieters.
Anyway, thanks for the great post; it'll go directly to my permanent DIET-collection... along with that framed before-after picture set :-)
Take care!
Christian
(Germany)
It isn't the amount of carbs that's the problem, it's the type. I like this list, but I'd amend it to state that refined, "white" carbs such as refined sugars, white bread, white rice, and regular pasta are bad, while up to 50% of one's food may be derived from whole, unrefined carbs such as brown rice, pulses, whole grain anything, and fruit.
Everyone should do what works for them. Carb avoidance worked for me. I still ate a healthy, normal caloric intake (lots of meat, cheese and leafy greens) but simply avoided carbs. Low-carb doesn't work for my wife, for example - she seems to do better on low-fat. I do very well on low-carb. Different people are different - that's why everyone should consult with a physician or dietician or other professional before doing a serious weight loss program (....I did).
Yes, 50% of the world's diet now may be carbs, but prehistoric man was mostly eating proteins and foraged fruits and nuts. There was no wheat. There were no potatoes. Carbs are not what we are biologically meant to eat. There's nothing in the least weird about keeping carbohydrates at the bottom of the food triangle.
But that having been said, the post is "my thoughts" and nothing more, as I say repeatedly throughout the post.... worked for me and nothing more.
And to #10 I stopped eating chips and when I put one in my mouth after a few months of going without the oily texture tasted pretty bad.
These are all very good thoughts. Thanks for sharing them.
I can't disagree more with that one.
The other bits of advice are generally good but I stay away from soy as much as I do from corn syrup and deep fried starchy foods. I've lost a hundred pounds myself by staying away from most carbs and eating sensibly and I have kept it off for over a year now.
I count soy as a carb and like most beans it is essentially poisonous until cooked. Cooked it still contains trace amounts of ricin. No thanks. I'll pass.