Hello and Happiest of Mondays! This is a gentle reminder that TOMORROW, Tuesday, August 1st, will be our Second Monthly Weigh-In. I'm trying NOT to make too much of an 'Event' out of it (that's what my nutritionist recommended, and she's probably right!) but, I do want to be as prepared as possible for any potential outcome. My nutritionist also advised that I should also weigh myself for the FIRST THREE CONSECUTIVE DAYS of the month. She advised this because weight always fluctuates, and by weighing myself for three consecutive days -- I will be able to obtain an average from those three weigh-ins. All this being said -- I HAVE A QUESTION: How could we best handle a potential no-loss or even a weight GAIN? I know for a fact that I have lost something, because my clothes fit overall looser and because my endurance has increased -- but due to also building muscle mass, I can't discard the possibility of a potential no-loss reading or even a weight gain. So once more -- in case we find ourselves in this tricky scenario -- how should we best handle it in order to ensure that we DO NOT FEEL DISHEARTENED (or at least to MINIMIZE the disheartening?) so that we do not drop in the towel? I'd like to hear about your thoughts! THAT BEING SAID, a few tips to give us the edge on Weigh-In morning tomorrow: 1: The night before, let's try to eat as healthy as possible. This means avoiding processed foods, sugary snacks and fatty meats. Instead, let's focus on eating lean proteins, vegetables and fruits. These foods will help fill us up without adding many extra calories. 2: We should also make sure that we're drinking plenty of water. This will help flush out our systems and ensure that we're not retaining much water weight. 3: Avoid sodium because it will make us retain water. 4: Avoid carby foods because every carby food actually holds onto some water as well. So, not only are we holding onto those carbs in our system, we're also holding onto extra water (which we DON'T NEED before weigh-in day!) 5: The usual tricks: Weigh ourselves first thing in the morning and after using the bathroom. Choosing a consistent time. Standing appropriately on the scale by standing still in the center of the scale with our weight evenly distributed on both feet. Let's handle Weigh-In Day tomorrow with compassion and sensitivity. Let's remember that what's important is HOW WE ARE FEELING and that the scale is just a tool that can't possibly display all weight-loss factors. Best of luck!
Maria
July 31, 2023
I think any weight loss would be good and encouraging! Absolutely no need to drop in the towel. If results aren't great, then get a little more focused instead of dropping the ball all together. Before getting serious with the weight loss I gained weight (5 pounds, putting me at 260) but by drastically reducing what I eat and working out at nights I was able to put myself back when I started, last time I checked. The only one benefiting from dieting and exercise are ourselves!
Diana
July 31, 2023
Yes, you're absolutely correct -- especially with that sentence you said: 'The only one benefiting from dieting and exercise are ourselves!' That's so true because, it's not like we're doing ANYBODY A HUGE FAVOR. We're doing OURSELVES the favor. Currently, I feel 80% confident that there will be a weight-drop (I mean, I've been at this for a whole month!) but I do see that I've developed a wee bit of muscle in my calves so that's gotta weigh SOMETHING. Also, my nutritionist has me at fairly high calorie amounts (1,900-2,100) so if there's any loss -- it might be quite low. Perhaps 0.5 per week, which would amount to: just 2 pounds during the whole month so, we'll see what happens. But like you said, a loss is a loss. Any weight loss should be encouraging. Let's keep this mindset tomorrow. :)
Maria
August 01, 2023
Take it easy! By the fact that you're the main recipient of all the effort should be extra motivating! Keep replacing meals with protein shakes when you're hungry and you should be able to create calorie deficits easily! This month could be considered the test month to see how your body reacts to it!
Diana
August 01, 2023
You are absolutely correct in what you say. Smoothies are definitely a type of healthier Slim-Fast that pack a lot of nutrients while still being fairly low-cal. And yes, I'll try to take it easy! Perhaps I'm stressing too much over this. blep!
Maria
August 01, 2023
Slim Fast is pretty good too, especially the high protein shakes. They're good for travel! But the fresh smoothies are much more delicious!
Diana
August 01, 2023
Slim-Fast are good, but they've also got a lot of non-pronounceable ingredients and you know how the Rule of Thumb goes: If your food has many non-pronounceable ingredients -- it's probably not the most natural. It probably has a lot of additives and preservatives. Being that smoothies are homemade with typically simple ingredients -- they're probably overall healthier than your average Slim-Fast. But yes, Slim-Fast, in a pinch, work really well! I still remember our Slim-Fast Cappuccino Delight days, lol. They were pretty good!
Maria
August 01, 2023
FDA is so uptight about regulations, it can't be that poisonous for you! But if you have the resources then go ahead and make the smoothies, they're way better!
Diana
August 01, 2023
Well, it's not poisonous per se, it's just healthier to have simple ingredients. Easier for our digestive system to process. But I heart me some Slim-Fast! I actually wish I had a stocked fridge with it so that I could have filling meals whenever I'm running real low on calories. Do you remember when we used to have them at PETCO every single day? We had the Cappuccino Delights, the Chocolate Royales and the Milk Chocolate ones. I remember we also used to depend a lot on Red Bull, lol. Good times, good times...
Maria
August 01, 2023
Oooh, I member! Also Friday Petco Cafe days too. And Lean Cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner! I miss those days. I didn't appreciate having a stable job and apartment at all. I wish I could go back in time sometimes!
Diana
August 01, 2023
Yeah, those PETCO Cafe drinks were actually delicious. :) And YEP! Lean Cuisines for any and all meals of the day! They really helped out a lot. Slim Fast + Lean Cuisines + Exercise = A most effective combo. I look back at those days with nostalgia, as well. We got to make our own hours, the job was superduper easy, rent was cheap! Those were the days, Haha. But things are gradually changing for the better now, too. Perhaps good days are upon us again. :)
Maria
August 01, 2023
I forgot we made up our own hours. Man, that was a really awesome job! I would just listen to music or look at movies all day. I am hopeful for better days too!
Diana
August 01, 2023
Touche! :)
Maria
August 04, 2023
Congrats, it was a tough one!!