Back in the saddle again...decided to finish out the sweet-free challenge.

After a tough week, I am back!

I make no apologies. I will merely dust myself off and start again a much wiser person.

Today I am re-starting my egg/protein fat fast and stay on it until Thursday.

Breakfast: 3 egg omelet, 1/2t of mayo, mustard, spices, green tea
Lunch: 2 hard-boiled eggs, 2 turkey cubes, a small portion of tuna with mayo
Dinner: 2 egg omelet with veggie patty, 1/2t of mayo, mustard, spices, green tea

Plenty of water, too!

Take care!

Ciao!

My sweet free challenge is over...

Christmas. Apple pie a la mode. A very emotional day. Enough said.

I ate mostly low-carb meals. Some good and bad judgments were made. I have no one else to blame but myself. I am my own worst critique.

I'll be in and out the rest of the week. I plan on revamping my blog and perhaps, adding another blog.

I hope you all had a good holiday!

Take care!

Ciao!

Living without TV and the Sweet Free Challenge

2 nights ago, I received a text that the tv had died. RIP tv. I can't say I was upset with that fact. Probably more upset that my boyfriend would not be able to enjoy a football game for a while. Or a DVD. (We were planning to rid ourselves of cable anyway.) On top of that, we have about a foot of snow on the ground as of this morning. It did not stop me from going into work yesterday. Lo and behold the MBTA came through with a few glitches here and there.

With all the stress, it has affected my eating. I am ashamed to say, I've had bread and pasta. Yet, the good thing is no sweet has touched these lips. No danish cookies. No diet soda. No splenda in the coffee. Nada nada nada. The thing that surprises me the most is I have not binged. The amounts were a few ounces here and there. I ate my regular 3 meals a day. My doctor hopes in January, if the low-carb plan suits my needs than I should embrace it at the Life Maintenance level since I am at goal. There is no need for crash diets as in years past. I should find new ways to increase muscle mass and turn the skinny fat into a lean body. I'm going to finish out the 2 weeks sweet free. I wrote here that I would do it and I shall!

Here is what I ate on Friday:

B: 2 eggs with 1/2t of mayo, mustard, spices.
L: 2 eggs with 1/2t of mayo, mustard, spices, veggie patty
Dinner: Buffalo tenders with celery and bleu cheese dressing and a side of linguni w/parmasean cheese drizzled on top.

Saturday:
B: 3 slices of my boyfriend's homemade bread w/butter (5:45am)
L: Garden salad with tuna - basil dressing (12:15pm)
D: Garden salad with tuna(Yes, I know tuna again and about the dangers of mercury), Extra Virgin Olive dressing with Italain seasonings (7:10om)

Take to you all later.

Ciao!

Binge Alert!

Breakfast and Lunch: 2 eggs scrambled, veggie patty, 1/4T of mayo, mustard and spices
Dinner: 1 HB egg, 4oz. of tuna w/mayo, 2 turkey cubes

Ugh! I was still hungry after my workout and had chicken breast and MAC and CHEESE!

I feel sick even though it wasn't that much.

I want salt for some reason. Salt salt salt salt salt salt.

I'm too upset at myself right now.

December 17, 2008 - Wednesday

I have to keep this short since I'm getting ready for work. I was thinking about what my co-worker said yesterday about me not consuming fruit. She disagrees with the entire low-carb lifestyle, yet, she ignorant to it. She constantly eats all day long on grapefruit, apples, bananas, nuts, and seeds. I gotta go. I will post later on.

B: 2 eggs scrambled, 1 veggie patty, 1 teaspoon of mayo, mustard, spices
285 calories

L: Same as B

Dinner: 1 HB egg, 4oz. of tuna with mayo, a few red kidney beans, 2 turkey cubes (350 calories)

920 calories total

Ciao!

The Sweet-Free Challenge Continues....

Tuesday Menu - December 15, 2008

6:45am - 2 eggs scrambled, Whole Foods Veggie Patty, 1 teaspoon of mayo, mustard, and spices
(285 calories)

1:00pm - Same as breakfast. (285 calories)

6:10pm: 1 hb egg, 4oz. tuna with mayo, few red kidney beans, 1 turkey cube
(325 calories)

I had some pepperoni slices and some mozzarella cheese (250 calories) to add more calories and fat.

1,145 calories

Wednesday - December 16, 2008

Breakfast: 2 eggs with 1 teaspoon of mayo, mustard, and spices (195 calories)

Lunch: Same as breakfast but with added Veggie Patty (300 calories)

Dinner: 1 hb egg, 4oz. tuna with mayo, few red kidney beans (225 calories)

Oops! My calories are way too low at 720! Yes, this is starting to worry me and my weight has dropped to 129lbs. Eek! Yet, I don't want to force myself to eat if I'm not hungry and eating coconut oil seems revolting to me.

Today at work my boss brought out a small round tin of Danish butter cookies. Thought I will miss the butter goodness and sweetness of these cookies. They aren't worth breaking the challenge.

I'm going to continue this challenge until my Doctor's appointment in January and then we will be able to sit down and evaluate my eating. Please , folks, don't worry about me. My nutritionist reads my blog and is fully aware of what I'm doing.

Take care,

Ciao!

P.S. - Yes, Vadim, even with low calories, I have plenty of stamina to spare at the gym. ;)

Oy, vey is right!

Checkpoint! - Halfway through the sweet-free challenge!

2 weeks without sweet and still going strong! I avoided the sweets at the Christmas party I went to on Saturday and on Sunday returned to my normal eating. Unfortunately, I wound up eating less calories than I would like. 850 calories.

Here is what I ate yesterday (December 14, 2008 - Sunday)

Breakfast: 9am - 300 calories - 2 eggs, Whole Foods veggie patty, mayo, mustard, and spices

Late Dinner: 5pm - 300 calories - same

Still hungry an hour later - 5oz. tuna with mayo, 2 celery stalks - 250 calories

After that I was full and did not eat anything else.

Green tea and water like always.

I had gone to the gym that afternoon and worked on legs, abs, and 25 minutes of elliptical.


Ciao!

December 13, 2008 - Saturday

My appetite finally surfaced last night at a Christmas party. I worked hard all day and I wound up eating a couple of large sandwiches because I ate dinner later than I usually do. I avoided the sugar cookies and other junky treats like the plague. My total calories for the day? 1,510.

It seems so high to me and though it probably isn't to others. My stomach actually hurt for an hour or so. Good thing we wound up walking home from the train station. I felt much better when we got home. I drank tea and then went to bed.

Are the holidays over yet?

5:45am - 2 eggs with veggie patty, mayo, mustard, spices (300)
12:30pm - Same (300)
Dinner: 2 Chicken Parm sandwiches (tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, chicken breast), on bulkie rolls. (They were good!) - 910 calories

Ciao!

December 11/12, 2008 - Thursday & Friday

Okay, can someone tell me why I'm losing my appetite? I eat about 1,000 or less calories a day.

You know the drill. Same menu as the day before. The thing is I'm not depriving myself. I sleep well and I feel good. Yet, the need to eat is diminishing and it is so startling! I'm not starving myself and my binge-eating is under control. Is this what ketosis feels like? Are the carbs finally out of my body? The DANDR book suggests I am. Though I'd have to pee-pee on a little stick to make sure. LOL....not! Its like the scale vs. how the clothes feel. I'll pick the clothes every time!

Whatever the case may be, I have successfully stayed away from sweet for 12 days. Now tomorrow is a special event involving lighting of a tree, and loads of treats. Ah, another obstacle to my challenge! Cool! I see a cup of black coffee in my future.

Menu for Thursday:

Breakfast: 2 eggs, veggie patty, mayo, mustard, spices - 300 calories (6:45am)

Lunch: Same as breakfast (1pm) - 300 calories

Dinner: 2 hb eggs, tuna with mayo, 1 turkey cube - 350 calories (6:05pm)

950 calories

Friday:

Breakfast and Lunch: Same (600 calories Total)
Dinner: 1 hb egg, tuna with mayo, 1 turkey cube, 2oz. of red kidney beans - (325 calories)

925 calories

See what I mean? Losing appetite. My transition day is tomorrow and I'll add a small green salad somewhere.

Okay, going to bed now. I used up my energy at the gym doing elliptical and abs. I have to work tomorrow and I want to be bright eyed and bush tailed!

Ciao!

December 9, 2008 - Tuesday

Sweet free and feeling good! I'm not missing the sodas or sugar one bit.

How's my eating? Very repetitive and after reading Vadim's comment, not very much either. Eating fat helps fill my increasingly shrinking stomach. I can barely get up to 1200 calories in.

My food is the same, eggs, veggie patties, mayo, avocado and extra virgin olive oil (for cooking eggs), fish, turkey, lettuce, and spinach.

Oh, I've had cravings. Don't get me wrong. I am in no way perfect. I wanted to eat some walnuts and pumpkin seeds last night. I know my stomach would bloat up to such a degree I'd be airborne. It isn't worth the extra calories to be uncomfortable. I drank my tea and went to bed. Another thing is, I have to go to bed earlier to avoid those cravings in the future. Otherwise, I'll become a binge-monster!

So here's the menu:

Breakfast: 3 eggs, mayo, mustard, spices
Lunch: Same
Dinner: 2 hard-boiled eggs, a small dab of tuna with mayo, 1 turkey cube.

956 calories (ugh!) - Now I know why I wanted walnuts and pumpkin seeds!! Far too low! Yet, I wasn't hungry after my workout.

(I love Lambert's on Tremont Street, Boston) - They have the best salad bar! I go there every day after the gym. I questioned the manager about calorie content, so I will know exactly what calories I'm getting in!!

Ciao!

December 7, 2008 - Sunday

Oh, my! I'm too tired to post anything more than my menu. Sorry!

Breakfast: 2 eggs, veggie patty, 1T of mayo, mustard, spices (300)

Lunch: Iceberg lettuce wedge with bleu cheese dressing, bacon bits, and tomatoes (I didn't eat the tomatoes nor the bacon.) 1 bowl of seafood chowder (I scooped the potatoes out). (Both items were too salty.) I checked calorie content for both items. 800 calories total.

Workout was 20 minutes elliptical, legs, and abs. - I worked it hard! LOL

Dinner: Same as breakfast

Water and green tea.

1400 calories total for Sunday. Not bad.

Ciao!

December 6, 2008 - Saturday

After existing on the same menu for the entire week, I enjoyed something different last night. I had a salad with tuna, shredded carrot, and four slices of vegetarian cheese. Oh, my, I ate up to 1300 total calories! I have to remember to eat slower, too. I will less likely binge during the weekends.

B: 2 eggs, veggie patty, mayo, mustard, spices
L: Same
Dinner: 2 cups of lettuce, shredded carrot, tuna with mayo, red vinegar, black pepper, bite of a jalapeno popper (disappointing - since the green chili was flavorless with no heat.), 4 slices of vegetarian cheese. (The cream cheese of the popper made me a little ill as well.)

Take care and enjoy your weekend!

Ciao!

Thank the Troops from Xerox!

This is a great idea! Simple, free, and means a lot to our troops. Support them.

Pick a specially designed card from one of the children, put your name, hometown, and a message. Send it! See wasn't that easy?

Here is the link: Give Thanks and Joy!

Also, my menu from yesterday. Wait, it was exactly the same as yesterday! LOL Same calories, too. Why do I keep eating the same thing? I have no idea. LOL Tomorrow, my menu will change as it usually does over the weekend, but still committed 100% to the Sweet-Free Challenge!

Ciao!

Sweet Free - Day 3 - Dec. 3, 2008

I have a leftover jewel yam sitting in the vegetable bin and I can't eat it because it is high in sugar nor can I eat the leftover turnips and squash either. Who would ever think I'd be craving a sweet potato or red beets? I committed to the challenge and I will stick with it. I can deal with not consuming sugar, splenda, and even a piece of fruit for the entire month. I guess I hate the thought of throwing away good food. At least there is one bright spot. We compost and grow plants and vegetables all year now.

Here is my menu from yesterday:

Breakfast and Lunch: 2 eggs with veggie patty, mayo, mustard, spices - (600 calories total) - Same times.

Workout at 5pm: biceps, triceps, abs, and 15 minutes on the elipitcal

Dinner - 6:20pm: 2 small hard boiled eggs, tuna with mayo, 2 cubes of turkey meat. (450 calories)

1,050 calories

Ciao!

Sweet Free - Day 2 - Dec. 2, 2008

My Thanksgiving dinner and of course, the homemade bread I keep raving and writing about. :)

I am trying to get my co-worker to get involved with at least eliminating at least one can of diet soda. "I'm no fun.", he says. Okay, if you want to play Russian Roulette by smoking cigarettes, drinking large coffees with cream and "splenda"?? that isn't my business. I am not the boss of you. Yet, he isn't the boss of himself since he's a slave to sugar, flour, and tobacco. As a friend, I would like to help. I don't know what to do.

Ranting for a moment, but what is up with processed garbage such as Lean Cusine, Smart Choice, Healthy Choice, Weight Watchers, etc., being touted as being healthy? I'm not saying all frozen entrees are bad. I love Ethnic Gourmet's Palek Paneer. I even like Linda McCartney's and Amy's Kitchen Vegetarian Frozen entrees on occasion. Yet, I prefer buying my own vegetables and preparing my own meals without preservatives. The entrees I listed above aren't even that cheap nowadays either. With proper planning, low-carb and even a low-carb Flexitarian lifestyle can be done on a budget.

Okay, rant over. Here is what I ate yesterday.

Breakfast: 2 eggs with veggie patty, mayo, mustard, spices (6:45am) - 300 calories

Lunch: Same as Breakfast (12:30pm) - 300 calories

5:15pm - upper body sore from chest exercises and decided to do 20 minutes of elipitcal and 15 minutes of abs only

Dinner: 2 small hard boiled eggs, lots of tuna with mayo, 2 cubes of turkey (Salad bar) (450 calories) - 6:10pm (Guesstimated calories with help from Dailyplate)

1,050 calories - Not weighing myself until next week. Scales can lie! :) Clothes are loose though!

Have a great day!

Ciao!

Sweet Free Challenge for the Month of December

Sweet, eh? This chick isn't a chocolate or pastry eater. I'm a lover of bread. I told the man of the house I am on a challenge! Make the pastas, the pies, the cookies, the breads, and the red meat for yourself! (Yes, Vadim, my man loves to eat and he uses utensils on occasion! LOL) I can stop drinking the diet sodas and since I keep a list of their ingredients at work and what they can do to the body and mind this really will be easy to give up for not only a month but a long time.

I had no sweet yesterday so I can say I started already! Yeah, me!

Here is my menu from yesterday:

Breakfast: 6:45am - 300 Calories
2 Eggs with veggie patty, mayo, mustard, spices (cayenne pepper) - Makes me sneeze! :)

Lunch: 12:30pm - 300 Calories
Same as Breakfast

Dinner: 7:20pm - 300 Calories
Same as Breakfast

Went to the gym at 5pm - 20 minutes of elliptical, 30 minutes of chest exercises, 10 minutes of abs. It felt good to get back into my routine.

I'm not especially hungry after the gym. Maybe the carbs are working their way out of my system? By Wednesday, I'll be starving and adding snacks. Unless I go into ketosis or something. I don't waste time and money buying sticks. I go by my appetite. I got to go to work! Talk to you all soon!

Ciao!

November 30, 2008 - Sunday

Breakfast: 2 eggs with veggie patty, 1/2T of mayo, mustard, spices (liberal use of Cayenne pepper!) - 300 Calories

Lunch: 3 Egg omelet with tomatoes cooked in ghee (clarified butter) - 450 calories

Dinner: Turkey tetrazzini (penne pasta with mushrooms, peas, mushroom soup, cheddar cheese), 4 slices of homemade bread - 720 calories

1470 calories - 136lbs. :(

I think I'll go scale free for a while. LOL My weight is creeping up from all that darn bread!

Back on my egg/protein fat fast rotation for the next few days to get rid of this excess water weight!

I am actually glad to be back at work with a normal routine! I eat better when I do because I bring my lunch from home. I also prefer eating 3 square meals a day, too. Strange I know.

I'm trying to persuade the man of the house to do the 7 fishes for Christmas instead of roast beef. I do not eat red meat! LOL I'll keep you updated.

Ciao!

I was a naughty low-carber!

I ate. Plenty. Too much homemade bread with ghee, I think it was on Thursday and Friday. I had my key-lime pie and a half-cup of ice cream (ugh felt bloated after). I don't think I went hog wild.

I do have pictures of my dinner and the bread. I'll post those on Monday since unfortunately I have had a "computer" set-back. My access is limited. LOL

Today though went well:

Breakfast: 3 eggs with mayo, mustard, and spices (300 calories) - 5:45am (I worked today.)
Snack: 1 Small black coffee (15 calories) - 7:20am
Lunch: Garden salad with tuna and mayo, balsamic vinaigrette (500 calories) 1:15pm
No afternoon snack
Dinner: 4oz. of salad with 2oz. of tuna, mayo, and spices (300 calories)

1,015 calories

It actually feels good to eat lighter today. More normal. Man, I gotta stay away from the homemade bread! LOL

For all those who are mildly curious, I am not starving myself. I workout regularly and take vitamins and supplements. I drink plenty of water. I feel great!

November 25, 2008 - Tuesday

Breakfast: 3 slices of homemade bread with butter - 400 calories

No Snack

Lunch: 2 eggs scrambled with my veggie patty. 1/2T of mayo, a squirt of mustard, spices - 300 calories

No Snack

Dinner: 2 HB eggs with tuna and crab meat salad - 450 calories

1,150 calories

I don't know if it is ketosis or what but I didn't feel hungry until I left the gym last evening. 46 minutes of elipitcal and 15 minutes of ab work. I am taking Wednesday and Thursday off from the gym in honor of the holiday and going out tonight after work to celebrate with some friends from work. I promised myself I would not go hog wild over the holiday. I went out of my way to buy the food I want to prepare and eat for myself since my boyfriend will be eating his mashed potatoes with gravy, corn, stuffing, and turkey. I bought jewel yams, baby spinach with romaine, and walnuts. Plus I have butternut squash and turnips. Food only I enjoy! I'm not going to lie, I WILL have a couple homemade rolls. I will enjoy some red wine. Here is the best part: I am Thankful for all that I receive and I thank God every day and not just for the holidays.

Take care.

Manic Monday

Yesterday, went pretty well considering there is a bunch of high carby breads around. One of my friends gave me a Pizza Gourmet pizza stone. Since my boyfriend loves to cook, well, he decided to try to make bread. And now he has made a pepperoni pizza. Great! What does a low-carber do in a case where her significant other is not only an Italian that cooks, he's an Italian that loves to cook for his love. He's waves off my warnings to keep this food away from my lips, and says: "It's a fad." Mmmmm.....no. Breads, cheeses, drinking like a Kennedy, and making bad choices got me to a maximum weight of 214lbs. I cut out the cheese and bread. Drink a few to get a rosy glow on occasion and I've stopped making impulsively bad choices. Ok, maybe I still make a few impulsive choices on occasion, BUT! My feet are firmly planted on the ground. Yes, they are, I checked.

Yesterdays plan:

Breakfast: 2 eggs scrambled with 1tsp. of mayo, squirt of horseradish mustard, and spices. 210 calories

No Snack

Lunch: 4 hard boiled eggs for my egg salad with 1/2T of mayo, 4 small squirts of horseradish mustard, and spices 375 calories

Snack? - I bought a 12oz. cup of black coffee mixed with cinnamon and 1 env. of splenda. I drank maybe a 1/4 cup of it. calories??? 20 tops

Dinner: 2 eggs scrambled with my homemade veggie patty, 1/2T of mayo, a couple squirts of mustard and spices. 310 calories

After dinner, my boyfriend gave me a couple of small slices of pizza with no cheese..sauce only. - 600 calories (yeah, dailyplate works great for me!)

1515 calories - Oops! Carbs are higher because of pizza. Yet, it was so goooooood!!!!

Did I mention I went 46 minutes on the elliptical today at full maximum overdrive? Yup, I was a hungry girl but not as bad as I thought I would be.

Have a great day!

134lbs. STILL!!! according to analog scale. Holding steady.

How well did I do this weekend?

I have the flu! Ugh!

My boyfriend told me he's up to here with my low-carb diet. He's holding fast to his homemade bread, mashed potatoes with gravy, corn, and herb-seasoned stuffing to go along with the turkey. All these sugar and flour products are all over my kitchen.

Yes, the challenge continues:

Here is what Saturday looked like - I worked all day, too!

5:45am - Breakfast - 300 calories
2 eggs scrambled with veggie patty
A bit of mayo, mustard, and spices (I like 'em hot!)

8:30am - Tall Cafe' Latte at Starbucks with Soy Milk - 140 Calories
(I do not consume dairy.)

12:20pm: Garden Salad with Tuna, Avocado, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
650 Calories

7pm - 2 Eggs with Turkey Burger omelet - 1 T of Mayo, mustard, spices.
425 Calories

1,415 Calories

Scale - 134 Pounds - Via Analog (Yuck!)

Sunday - Forget about it! LOL Too sick to count calories nor get on a scale.

Back to business today!

Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Man - Jimmy Moore has a challenge!

I will go ahead and take the Pepsi Challenge...ah..low-carb menu challenge and see how accountable I can really be!

I have listed my way of eating or woe in previous posts. This time I will add my calorie intake and exercise routine for the day. My nutritionist suggested I toss my scale away but I had stepped on the scale earlier this morning.

133lbs. (Analog scale.)

Here is my menu from yesterday:

6:45am - 300 calories

1 Boca Burger Patty
2 Scrambled eggs
1/2T of Mayo
Bunch of spices

11:08am - 80 Calories
1 HB Egg (Bunch of spices)

1:00pm- 240 Calories
3 Hardboiled Eggs with 1T of Mustard (Bunch of Spices)

3:45pm - 80 Calories
1 HB Egg (Bunch of Spices)

6:15pm - 400 Calories
2 HB Eggs with Tuna and Crab Meat Salad

Total Calories - 1,100

Eggs fill me up!

My way of eating has been updated.

Currently, my Way of Eating is the Egg/Protein Fast. My nutritionist mentioned that mixing it up every day with wholesome foods, the right amount of fats, etc., at the calorie levels my body requires will help me not only control my binge/purge issues, but keep energy levels up for workouts, and to keep myself going throughout a stressful work day.

Example:
Mondays - Egg/Protein Fast Day.
Tuesdays - Low carb day - (add 2oz. sweet potato as an example) before working out (End the day with high good fat meal).
Wednesdays - Higher carb day - eat 1/2 cup oatmeal in morning, a piece of fruit for a snack, a big salad for lunch, and end the day with a high good fat meal.
Thursdays - Repeat Monday
Fridays - Repeat Tuesday
Saturday - Repeat Wednesday
Sundays - I decide. (Calorie intake must not go above 1800 calories.)

I have freedom to choose but still am able to set rules and a workable routine for myself.

Round Three of the Fast: How am I doing?

I feel wonderful! I lost about 9lbs. and the inches around my belly seemed to have gone down. Now that I cut out dairy completely, I have not had one episode of gas or bloating. I don't want to become dependent on this plan. Yet, when I try to eat vegetables I feel my appetite bloom! I have to be careful on what type of veggies I eat and how much. A little bit at a time. Baby steps. I want to finally keep my binge episodes in check. This is what works best for me.

Being well-stocked with the supplies I need.

Quick meal preparation.

So far so good!

I'll keep you posted. 132lbs. and close to goal!

Day Two - Egg/Protein Fast

Here I go again trying something new! Eggs, eggs, all day long for 3-5 days with some good fat thrown in. Keeps me satisfied longer than I thought. I probably will not look at an egg after this! LOL

Heck, I will do anything to control my binging in the evenings. I don't go by the scale anymore. It is a nice surprise if it went down but I'm not going to stress over it. In fact, things are finally looking up for me on the home front. I finally was able to snag a part-time job to help pay some bills. Whatever the case maybe, I want this jump start plan to get me going in the right direction. It is obvious my body needed more protein and fat..yes, fat. Tomorrow, will be day 3 and most people at the low-carb friends thread have started added vegetable carbs in. I will see what happens on Thursday and decide if I want to continue til the end of the week.

I wanted to mention to everyone at the Fascinated with Kimmer threads at LCF to stop bickering and finger pointing. I haven't a clue as to what is going on and probably never will. It probably isn't any of my business since I'm a relative outsider. Yet, as an outsider I have a different perspective on the whole deal. It seems to distract us from what needs to be done. Please, ladies and gentlemen, lets be friends again. Where's the love? Come on now, kiss and make up! Now, let's get back to business!

For Something Completely Different....and Yet...

Struggling for self-assurance over hidden angst, you are highly adept and full of surprises.

I find your lack of faith disturbing.

Anakin Skywalker is a character in the Star Wars universe. The Star Wars Databank profiles his life story.

Then I add this famous quote from my signature line:

Your soul is oftentimes a battlefield, upon which your reason and your judgment wage war against your passion and your appetite.
-Kahlil Gibran-

Yep, that's me in a nutshell. I go to battle everyday.

My Kimkins Experiment

When I have free time, I often look at the old Kimmer threads at Low-Carb friends. This gives me and anyone else an opportunity a glimpse at the psyche of "Kimmer" is about, the Kimkins plan, and the "glowing" testimonials that followed. Yes, people lost weight, yet, their stats don't quite match up to their losses, and most of them regained the weight or jumped the LCF ship and boarded the SS Kimkins or simply moved on. I know full well the Kimkins plan isn't a new concept. Stillman's and Atkins plans aren't new either. Basically, the KK plan is a bunch of recycled ideas thrown together and given a cutesy name that shows up in a popular housewife checkout line magazine called Women's World. I read the magazine. Even did the crossword puzzle in the back, too. Never even crossed my mind to join. I went on with life and forgot all about it.

I will let you in on a little secret. I tried the original KK plan for 5 days. I took a week off from the gym, boiled eggs, grilled a bunch of turkey burgers and chicken breasts, bought heads of lettuce, cans of tuna, (ugh!) chicken in a can, and some bags of frozen broccoli and spinach. I whipped out my Crate and Barrel digital food scale and portion controlled my meals. I was quite familiar with Stillman's QWL and the Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (in my humble opinion) is all about Intermittent Fasting and portion control. I was desperate for a way to not only control my binge-eating-disorder but to lose some weight in the process. The only differences are I took my supplements as I always did and not rely on a multi-vitamin only, did not consume soda, crystal light, or use artificial sweeteners of any kind. Water, green tea, and peppermint teas were my only beverages.

How did the week go? Hmm...I was able to control my binge eating issues by staying busy all day long at work and going to bed early. I was exhausted the first couple of days and irritated for some reason. I wanted to talk to no one and be left alone. I do not get along well with my co-worker. Maybe that was it. LOL Yeah, it more than likely was lack of caffeine!

I did not feel hunger after the third day. I had to force myself to eat lunch nor did I eat the hard boiled eggs for my snacks. Dinner was a dangerous time for me on the second day, but I talked myself out of eating anything other than dinner and went to bed. I missed going to the gym terribly. Yes, I stuck with the plan for an entire 5 days. Then the weekend came and it wasn't an extreme binge fest as I thought it would be. I had fruit, bread, and cheese. I think I even had a few slices of buffalo chicken pizza. Oh, and I went to Boston Market and had one of their 1/4 chicken meals, too. (Their corn bread is actually pretty good.) After carefully doing the math I barely made it over 1500 calories on both Saturday and Sunday when I averaged them out. The weekend evenings was when I consumed the food I mentioned above.

I did manage to lose some weight. About 5lbs., I guess. Perhaps it was water weight. My weight can fluctuate between 2 to 5lbs. on the same day! I went back to my normal eating patterns and went back to the gym. It felt good to get on the elliptical again! Here is the problem. Lately, I've had to deal with some stress and bouts of depression and I don't know if it is a residual of the experiment or what, but I do not have an appetite whatsoever. I am not starving myself. I eat the 3 weighed and measured meals I prepare. Healthy fats are included. I eat meat, fruit, vegetables, some grains, and a small portion of dairy.
.
I do have a doctor's appointment next month. I had to postpone it due to financial reasons. I hope my problems aren't due to thyroidal or candida. Sometimes I have horrible bloating episodes and tension headaches after lunch. The peppermint tea helps relieve it.

I'll keep you tuned in on what happens next.

Thanks for reading.

Everything I wanted to say and then comes "Magic".

Magicsmom

Behind you all 100%!

Trying to get things straight.

I haven't posted in my blog for quite some time. I figured there was nothing really important to say since I spend my time commenting on low carb friends. Over the past year, I tried many different ways of combating my eating disorder. I am so tired of looking for new tricks to help me control my binge episodes. Support helps in some ways, yet, at night I look in the mirror when I remove my clothes and don't really like what I see. My stomach bulges. There are lumps and bumps in places. I work out like a fiend and tempted to buy the next latest fat burner. Which by the way leave you dizzy and $50 poorer.

I lost 50lbs. and it has been hell trying to maintain the loss. I go up and down on the scale so often I had to place it in the closet. Recently, I placed myself on a calorie restricted diet known as CRON - Calorie Restriction with Optimal Nutrition. Low-carb simply does not work for me. I'm not a big red meat eater and I love my vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. I actually eat all day long but my portions are considerably smaller. I avoid simple carbs and sugar. I limit my dairy intake to 4oz. a day. I am slowly starting to feel better on the inside. Yet, I look in the mirror and my mind and body aren't in harmony with each other.

One thing I don't like is seeing my ex-trainer at my new gym on Friday afternoons. This Friday, he finally noticed me and I was in utter panic! I feel as though he is judging me in the same way I told him about my eating disorder a couple of months prior. He brushed it off and thought it was nonsense. I felt as though the wind got knocked out of me when he said he was disappointed in my appearance. I think my abdomen was bloated because of the menu I was given while in Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous. I had tried so hard and yet it wasn't good enough. I stopped going to my other gym to avoid bumping into him. I can't escape him!

Maybe its other issues going on. Needing control in my life when the other parts are totally chaotic. I want to do so much. What is holding me back?

I know vanity is a sin but....

Photo by:
John S. Russo
Ciannaky Studios
Everett, MA

August 14, 2008

What can I say about Jack?

"I don't care how old I live; I just want to be LIVING while I am living!"

Medi-Weight Loss Clinics...glorified Kimkins?

Is Medi-Weight Loss Clinic a glorified Kimkins?

" It utilizes a low carb, low fat, low calorie diet, along with supplements, medication, and weekly visits."

"I followed the 400 to 500 calories of protein they recommended for the first week, and had eggs, chicken, ground beef, tuna, salmon, and crab throughout the week."

"On MWL we are super low carb! We are also sugar free, gluten free, starch free and so on and so forth.... That means we only eat meat and lean meat at that! No breads or dairy, they recommend no fruits, very little veggies, and no additives. I think I speak for a lot on this diet that we do use additives such as herbs to try and enhance the flavor of our food but it's not necessarily allowed."

Initial Consultation

• Initial assessment
• Comprehensive blood panel
• Blood pressure
• EKG
• Weight & body fat index
• Individual exercise regimen
• B-6 & other injections
• Appetite suppressant
• Fat burner supplement
• Colon cleanser
• Vitamins
• Starter kit

Weekly Visits

• Consultation
• Blood pressure
• Weight & body fat index
• Appetite suppressant
• Vitamins
• Weekly injection

What do you think?

No, I'm not MIA! Trying to get focused.

I'm back on my trainer's plan of eating more protein, healthier food, and trying his best tricks to stop myself from binging. I have discovered one way to stop and it is called "shut off the TV and get out of the house". I want desperately to get back on track with my eating and to prove to my trainer and myself that I CAN DO IT AGAIN!!

It is back to basics. I see my trainer again on Wednesday. Wish me luck!

I'm Back! (No more excuses!)

It is time to get my butt into gear and get to work. Summer is coming!

Leaving for Arizona on Tuesday, June 9th!

I can hardly wait to have a little bit of fun in the very hot sun! (110 degrees - yikes!) I will try not to get homesick and try to go to the gym down there at least 3 out of the 5 days. No slacking here! For some reason, this vacation planning has been stressful. Trying to look good in a bathing suit. Buying clothes and sandals, etc. Seeing friends and family after 5 years is quite daunting, too. It has kicked up my eating disorder habits, too. My nutritionist and I are going to have a nice "chat" when I come back from vacation. I'll be on a plan that should work for me as well as start the bi-weekly support group.

I hope it works. I really do.

Welcome 2008 Mid-Year Resolution Team One Members

Mousegal 100 to lose/ 0 lost/ 100 pounds to go!
skeopple 84 to lose/ 0 lost/ 84 pounds to go!
ummrashid 60 to lose/ 0 lost/ 60 pounds to go!
Sybilizedliving 40 to lose /0 lost/ 40 pounds to go!
hadenuff 65 to lose/ 0 lost/ 65 pounds to go!
clumsyangie 26 to lose/ 0 lost/ 26 pounds to go!
Justice 22 to lose/ 0 lost/ 22 pounds to go!

I wanted to welcome you all!

I know we all are on different WOE (way of eating) plans and I don't want to change what works for you. Maybe what you are doing now IS no longer working for you and perhaps want to try something different. This is up to you!

I've tried all kinds of diets and to tell you the truth I don't like restrictive diets. The one plan I've had the best luck on is by far the one my first personal trainer gave to me. The other plan that worked for me was the 7 Day Start Diet from Dawn Jackson Blatner, RD. I lost 30lbs. on her diet initially and lost the last 20 or so pounds from using the trainer's plan.

My nutritionist, Ericka, has suggested I try Atkins if I miss cheese so much. I think the rich foods upset my stomach and I'm not a big red meat eater. I like portion controlling my meals but I enjoy a variety of different foods (including whole grains).

I'll tell you these 10lbs. are probably going to be the hardest and I'm willing to work very hard for me and YOU!

Any ideas for names?

Present and Past. (Why I'll never forget.)

Last Month

1999

Why do I care?

I wrote this post at the lowcarb friends site.

My DB was asking me a couple of days ago, "Why do I care?"

It isn't about Hidey. I know her saga. She's FOS and a complete fraud. I hope the wheels of justice can move faster. Slow and steady wins the race.

It is about the the people in KK and the survivors of KK and others caught in the vicious cycle of very low calorie diets and eating disorders that make me write today and every day. Real people caught up in a cat and mouse game of trying to lose weight and perhaps feel good about themselves but only hurting their bodies, their minds. Like you, Dee. I don't mean to pick on you. Yet, your reluctance too see the facts all spread out for you on the internet makes me want to bang my head on the desk! I don't have to be a former member of KK to "relate" because everyone is a Food Addict. We ALL love food yet hate the way it controls ourselves. We can stop drinking. We can stop smoking. Yet, we CAN'T stop eating! It is fuel for our bodies and it can be enjoyed without guilt and remorse. All we need to do is educate ourselves. Education is the key!

Hidey wants to control you and tell you how wonderful you look and how much of a beautiful person you are when she doesn't give a rats behind! She needs your picture to advertise her plan to make money in the same way she needed Christin and Deni, and Larcana, and the Russian Brde website! So, yeah, I am questioning your credibility in that respect.

All that weight you lost? You are going to gain it back once your off KK. You realize that, right? KK is poisoning your mind, too, because you traded one dependence over another. Go ahead and read the CB blog. It gives you spectacular insight into the minds behind KK. I was disgusted by not only the blog but by people still willing to defend the person or persons who authored the garbage posted.

Dee, Carly, or any other lurkers. Take all the breathing space. Time. Whatever. Read. Read it again. When your done read it again.

I apologize to anyone I've offended in this post. I meant no harm.

Just wanted to say "Thank You!"

With all that is happening in my life, sometimes I forget to grateful for all the good things in my life, and the new friends I've made along the way.

Thank you, Mrs. Menopausal for everything.

As for the KK saga, I just shake my head wondering why the hell are people still on a plan made up by a band of liars, thieves, and sock puppets?

Be good to yourself, people still on the KK inside, get the heck out of Dodge! Immediately!

Why did I leave Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous?

1) They didn't help my binges.

2) The meetings were taking up too much of my time.

3) My sponsor suggested I slow down on my career choice (certified physical trainer) and concentrate on FA by making phone calls to strangers and being more involved.

4) Food is my friend not my enemy. I am my own worst enemy.

____________________________________________________________

I will have to find my own way. It is out there....

Tough Road without Flour and Sugar

There are days when I think I am not going to make it to the end of an evening without eating something that isn't on my food plan. However, these days I keep myself busy from early morning to late evening and wind up too wasted to do anything more than lay my head on the pillow. Maybe that is the whole point! The less time I think about food the better!

I weigh about 133lbs. +/- today.

I lost count as to how many days I am abstinent from snacking between meals. I'll stick with the plan and take it day by day.

Bye-bye low-carb, Hello, FA!

I had to quit the low-carb lifestyle. It may have helped me in the gym at first, but mentally it wasn't. I go as often as I can and do lots of weight training plus cardio as per my trainer's instructions. Unfortunately, my BED (Binge-Eating Disorder) reared its ugly head and it has been a tough choice to choose a disciplined program such as Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous over my nutrition plan given to me by my trainer. (The trainer's plan had all the earmarks of a low-carb lifestyle, except no cheese .) I tried doing the Stillman's for a while and DANDR 1992 edition for a couple of weeks, too.

I eat my 3 planned and measured meals a day. I don't drink coffee nor consume caffeine for that little added boost to my workouts. I will tell you weight training and cardio seems more difficult without the added protein but even with my pale white skin the muscle definition is very obvious in my arms, shoulders, legs, and finally, I see something in the abs region. My belly looks more like Tara Reid's botched liposuction.(I have lost a total of 56lbs. so far.) My body will never look like a Bodybuilder's and the desire to go into competition has faded. I want to feel good is what I want.

If I don't have that than what else is there?

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous

I've attended my second meeting last night. The group reads from the AA big book but has its own pamphlets. Since I never do anything halfway I decided to get a sponsor, attend 4 meetings a week, and place myself squarely in their food plan of 3 measured meals a day with no snacks in between or after dinner. It is more food than I've eaten these past few weeks. There is no calorie counting or Fitday madness.

Today is my first day on the plan and I've been very involved with the stress of work. There is no desire to eat.

My sponsor, a young lady, named Mara is very strict and said the only way I can get her to help me is attend meetings, call her every day at 6am, as well as a few others on the phone list, and more importantly to have faith in His will.

Right now, I'm 135lbs. and my height is 5'6". Once a week I will have to weigh myself and see if the plan works and to adjust accordingly.

Also, it is killing two birds with one stone by also removing myself from alcohol.

Food Addicts Anonymous & Greysheet.org

After long conversations with my doctor and nutritionist, they suggested I look into these programs to help with my "diet obsession(s) and depression".

I can't help others unless I help myself first.

Consider this site: "Lora Under Construction".

Tomorrow is Today.

The pressure of going to the Doctor is done. I don't have to see her for another 6 months.

Today is the start of getting ready for my vacation in June. Yes, I've done well on Stillmans and Atkins. Yet, I don't think I feel all that well without more variety in my food regardless of how much protein I eat. It comes down to planning. There are things I can be lazy about but when it comes to my body, I can't be.

I'm trying this again. New workouts. New Music. Spring is here and I'm getting my bike ready.

Here we are with 2 months to go.

It appears I've hit a plateau...

Time to get the ball rolling again!

I'm going to try the Stillman's Challenge again and the biggest test will be the weekend. Can I do it? I hope so!

I will update you all on Monday!

Let's go back to what works...

Here's my menu:

6:00 am Breakfast: 1/2 Cup Steel Cut Oatmeal made with water and cup of black coffee

9:30 am Snack One: 1 Cup of Sugar Snap Peas and Green Beans (100% Raw) with Eden's Apple Cider Vinegar and some Mrs. Dash Extra Spicy

11:30 am Snack Two: 14 Raw Almonds

1pm Lunch: Tuna with Trader Joe's Organic Mayo mixed with herbs and spices and Broccoli

3:30pm Snack Three: 5.3oz Plain No Fat Greek Yogurt with 1/2 sliced green apple w/cinnamon

6:30-7pm (Depending on when I get home from the gym) Dinner: Small bowl of chicken soup w/mixed green salad and one hardboiled egg.

Also, still going strong with my studies on becoming Certified Physical Trainer!

Sometimes there are these things called "set-backs".

I wish I didn't have any but unfortunately the past two weeks have been tough and the scale doesn't lie. I'm trying something new to my diet this week which may shake things up a bit. I'm trying the Stillman's Challenge but on my own terms since my weight training requires I eat extra calories. My biggest challenge by far are the weekends when my schedule is shaken up. Maintaining this weight I've lost is NOT EASY by any means. Old habits can creep back on me and a little bite can cost me and all the hard work seems like such a waste of time!

I started this challenge yesterday and I will write again next week to see how things progress.

I CAN DO IT!

FINALLY! When Hard Work Pays Off...

A new career in fitness?

Finally, there is light at the end of the tunnel and who would've dreamed I could make a career at something I have always wanted to do. Help people achieve their fitness and weight goals! There is so much to learn but if I stay in focus with not only my physical goals as well as my educational ones. I can see no limits to how far I can go. It would be wonderful to get out of the 8:30am-5pm grind every day, too. Crunching numbers all day in front of a computer for over 10 years has gotten me no where except a paycheck to survive, and I want to live!

I'll update later as I have to get to work...

3rd Evening of Binging Alert...

Here's the thing, I know what triggers the old binging bell inside my head to go off and yet, I continue to sabotage myself. I am given "permission" to eat. I don't want permission nor did I ask for it but I'm drawn to my friend's and family's bad eating habits. For years, I was an out-of-control eater and social drinker with little or no respect for myself. I came to the conclusion that stress, boredom, and living without a plan are the last obstacles in my path. I have to live up to my moto: Focus and Play. I have to do better. I know I need help.

I couldn't let this sit in the Low-Carb Friends Forum!

I really don't know how many calories I'm consuming any more. I'm supposed to be at 1475 calories daily or some absurd number like that. Since I started the plan (February 18th), I eliminated as much sugar, dairy, cheese, bread, and salt in my diet as I possibly can. I allow only one cup of plain yogurt and occasionally eat Oat Bran Hot Cereal with mixed berries. I exercise 6 days a week with 3 of those days doing weight training.

In less than 2 weeks, I've lost inches from my waist and bust (OH, NO!). Increased muscle tone in my arms, legs, chest, back, and shoulders and If I'm reading my scale correctly this morning (may be wrong, I don't have a digital one.) I've lost another 3lbs.?? 136lbs.???

The Journey Continues...

I have been a busy girl the past couple of weeks with moving in to a new apartment, going to the gym, and working. The days are just flying by! On February 18th, I started my trainer supervised diet and after 9 days, I lost 9lbs. +/-. I am currently at 139lbs. and though according to Spark People I have reached my goal as far as losing weight, I still need to tone up the loose skin and gain some good muscle definition.

I spend a lot of time at low-carb friends and they know all!

Training Dazed

I started training this week with my new master trainer, Ralph from Planet Fitness. He's teaching me the proper form and posture this week while working all of my smaller muscles. When did training become fun? I do find myself sitting and standing straighter lately. I'm always the slouch. I'm thinking of training for my first fitness show. We'll see what happens. I had my very last crappy meal at Applebee's tonight. Was it worth it? No. Food tastes better when its fresh, clean, unprocessed, and cooked properly. Clean eating really is the way to go.

As I need all the help I can get, I'll be picking people's brains for nutrition tips!

In other news: Woman's World apologized for showcasing Kimkins in their June 12, 2007 magazine. Its a start.

Happy Valentine's Day to those ladies and gentlemen on the MSN weight-loss forums! I hope you achieved your first goals!!

I've lost weight and this is happening to me, finally!

I often wondered what happens when you finally do lose all the weight and fit into all those clothes you've always wanted to wear (you sexy thing you!)?! I've observed a few things in the past couple of weeks that has motivated me even further.

Men and women are checking me out at the gym and a few have complimented my accomplishments. (Boosts my ego!)

I work in a customer-service oriented business and customers as well as a few vendors are doing the same.

There seems to be a little more respect given when I speak.

I found myself looking at old pictures and wonder why the hell didn't I lose the weight any sooner?!

I am excited about the summer for the first time since I was a school girl!

Yes, it all feels great! I feel and look younger and healthier. I still got a ways to go before I'm toned up and ready for let's say an....(OCB - Organization of Competitive Body Builders) or a Fitness show. Yet, now I'm in the "I got to help my friends now" zone and having a great time!

Who'd have ever thought I'd turn fitness into a hobby or maybe a new career??!!

I, Welcome, Our New Planet Fitness Overlords!

My gym has changed ownership. New people. New stories. A change of scene will do nicely. In fact, the gym is even open earlier and I'm leaving right......now!

Haystar's 3 Week (Plus) Challenge - Day Two...er Three!

I was craving a little cheese last evening and felt guilty after eating them but I still felt hungry after my dinner. My workouts are getting tougher and I like it that way but I expend a lot of energy!

Today's menu:
B: Multi-Grain Wrap (LC one's all gone!) with 1/4 black beans, 2% mozzarella cheese sprinkled on top with 2 egg whites and red peppers. Banana
S: Green Apple w/string cheese and cinnamon
L: Mixed green salad w/1/4 black beans, brown rice, and shrimp
S: Cottage cheese w/fruit
D: ??

I think I am near TOM and I always crave cheese! LOL

Oh, and another intense workout at 5pm!!

Thanks for all your support! :)

As I type this, my cats are staring at me because they want shrimp!

Busy, busy, busy!

I restarted my clean eating to a great start yesterday.

B: Organic 365 Oatmeal with flax and banana
S: Sliced green apple, string cheese and cinnamon
L: LC Wrap with hummus, mixed peppers, lettuce, broccoli, grape tomatoes, and shrimp, sprinkled with basil and EVOO
S: Cottage cheese w/pineapple
D: Salad w/mixed veggies, feta cheese, and Boca Burger patty.

For supplements: 2,000mg of Fish Oil (Morning and Evening)
One 5mg. Scoop of Branched Amino Acids

My stack: One Atro-Phex (BSN) and One Tight FEM (S.A.N.)

Cardio was 30 minutes on elliptical trainer (interval) and 35 minutes of weight training. I was able to lift heavier weights with little struggle!

With work, going to the gym, and studying nutrition that I haven't had time for my blog! I gotta hold myself accountable!

I am starting a 3-week challenge with Haystar from Low-Carb friends. I can't let her nor anyone else down, including me!

Can I survive without cheese?

I think it is possible considering if I don't buy it, I won't eat it! I haven't weighed myself since last week because the scale can jump anywhere from 145-149lbs. I don't know if my body is rebelling because I haven't been this thin since when I was a teenager or I'm eating junk on some subconscious level. HA! I haven't so much as eaten a cookie or a piece of milk chocolate in a long time. I'm enjoying my veggies and eating good protein, basically eating clean. I wish my friends would put down their french fries, stop eating processed junk, and give up soda completely! Maybe once they really see me they will finally be convinced! (Itsy-bitsy yellow polka-dot bikini!!)

Also, still going strong on the weight training! Stay tuned.

__________________________________________________

Over in low-carb friends and many others are still going strong about taking KIMKINS DOWN!

Just say "NO" to Kimkins. Just say "Yes" to Clean Eating!!!

Internet Surfer Girl...

This week, I've been riding the waves of the fitness/weigh-loss /political world. Where have I been?

Low Carb Friends (Cool site!)

Kimkins (I'm not linking to that site! Forgetaboutit!)
The negative side of Kimkins - lots of blogs for that one. You literally can get a headache from reading about the founder and con-artist Heidi Diaz. I wouldn't be surprised to see Chris Hansen from Dateline NBC covering this story any time soon.

Bodybuilding.com (I get my supplements here.)

HotAir.com (Political) - Get your fill of the presidential candidate mishaps here!

HeatReviewService.com - The low down on frozen foods! Fun site!

There are too many to choose from! Here I go again!

35 Days away from Valentine's Day!

Valentine's Day Goal and Beyond.

MSN's Diet and Fitness Message Board commentators are looking for weight-loss buddies to support them as they diet and exercise their way to Valentine's Day (7 weeks away, I might add!). Check them out, give them a hand, and then a round of applause!

Have you ever wondered where some of those great new diet/eating plans and advice are coming from in your favorite magazines such as Health, Fitness, and Self? Dawn Jackson Blatner, RD, LDN is one of those reasons. She showcases her best plans on her website. Go ahead and take a look. You will not be disappointed!

Good Luck!