Back to Curves...

So, after two months of ridiculous morning sickness and never-ending viruses, I am back in the land of the living. I hope I am here to stay! My eating habits have become horrendous, but what can I say...I am ruled by my pregnancy taste buds and persistent nausea. Basically, I eat whatever I CAN eat at any given moment. And unfortunately, I have been craving the worst possible things. Namely, hot dogs, among other things.

As far as exercise, I had made a goal to work out through my entire pregnancy, but alas, illness was NOT in my plans. In the past two months, I have been to Curves only twice. Definitely not worth my $39/month membership. :( But I am officially in my second trimester and seem to be past the worst part of all of this. Now the hard part is overcoming the severe lethargy that set in these last few weeks. Where will I find the energy? Luckily, I told my husband of my plans to go back to Curves tonight. Around 4:30, I started to chicken out as I lay on the couch feeling so tired I wanted to die. I called him at 5:15, hoping he wasn't rushing home from work yet so I could tell him not to worry about it. But, he was already on his way and told me that I needed to make myself get up, get ready, and GO! So I did. I went in, did the 30 minute circuit, and took it really easy. It was still hard after doing nothing for a whole month. But as long as I keep it up at least three times a week, my body will get used to it again. Here's hoping this trimester will be 1000 times better than the first one!

Ok already! I give up!

I am officially admitting defeat. I feel SO entirely sick right now that I have absolutely no desire whatsoever to keep track of what I'm eating. There. I said it.

Out of Control...

Today's Weight: 131 lbs

Well, I haven't been keeping track of my food like I said I would. It's a little tricky right now. I have been SO bad the last few days, sporadically eating whatever and whenever I want, etc. Somewhere along the line, I lost track...

It's just so hard controlling my cravings right now. I'm feeling more and more sick as the days progress, so it's getting harder to even know what I want to eat. A lot of foods, smells and textures are turning my stomach. But, the things I DO want to eat, I eat TONS of, because I feel SO hungry. Pregnancy is strange, that's all I can say.

I did exercise at Curves yesterday, despite my utter nausea and exhaustion beforehand. I almost didn't go. But I kicked myself in the butt and did it. It really felt a lot better than I imagined it would, so I'm glad I went. I found hidden energy stores that allowed me to complete the workout. I burned over 500 calories! Plus, I've discovered that my nausea completely disappears while I'm exercising. Bonus!

I'm going to try to eat better today, so here's the report:
Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/3 cup granola = 1
1 cup 2% milk = 3
Sub-total: 5

Snack:
1 can mandarin oranges = 2

Friday Report, Week 7

Today's Weight: 130.5 lbs

I went for my first prenatal visit today. Lots of peeing in cups and getting blood drawn. Fun! The doc informed me that I don't have to gain any weight in the first trimester, so my goal is to not let the scale creep up in the next two months. I will try to stay right around 130. But she said to keep exercising as long as I'm not at risk of injuring myself. And she said that there is actually not much that can hurt the baby (s/he is very well protected in there). I'll only hurt myself and be even more uncomfortable.

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup granola & raisins = 2
1/4 cup 2% milk = 1
Sub-total: 4

Lunch:
1 cup chili = 6
1/2 oz shredded cheese = 1
Sub-total: 7

Thursday Report, Week 7

Today's Weight: 130 lbs yeah!

I'm amazed that my eating the last few days hasn't skyrocketed my weight. Maybe my metabolism has caught up to my current calorie intake. I'm sure the exercising helps too. But I am floored by the immediate hunger and cravings I'm having from being pregnant. It could be just the fact that I know that I'm pregnant. If I didn't know yet, I'd probably still be dieting just the same as I was. But for some reason, knowing that I'm pregnant kills any and all motivation I had to maintain some self-control. Not that I want to continue the diet...I know that's not good during pregnancy. BUT, I do wish I could still be a little better in control of the QUANTITY and QUALITY of food I eat. It would curb a lot of unnecessary weight gain in the near future.

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup granola = 2
1/4 cup 2% milk = 1
Sub-total: 4

Snack:
10 high fiber crackers = 1

Lunch:
1 fried egg = 2
3 slices ham = 1
1 light English muffin = 1
1 cup 2% milk = 3
1 slice Amish bread = 3
Sub-total: 10

Dinner:
1.5 cups cheese tortellini = 8
1/4 cup tomato butter sauce = 2
1 slice french bread = 3
Sub-total: 13

TOTAL: 28

Wednesday Report, Week 7

Today's Weight: 131 lbs

And the news is that I'm pregnant! So, no more extreme dieting for me. At least, I won't be restricting calories to 18 points a day. I'll be aiming more for 25-30, and I will continue to exercise every day. Hopefully that will balance any excess weight gain that I really don't need, since I'm already technically overweight. We shall see!

Breakfast:
1 slice Amish bread = 3
1 cup 2% milk = 3
Sub-total: 6

Snack:
1 fried egg = 2
2 slices ham = 1
1 English muffin = 1
Sub-total: 4

Lunch:
1 cup chili = 6
.5 oz shredded cheese = 1
Sub-total: 7

Snack:
4 Oreo cookies = 5
1/2 cup 2% milk = 1
Sub-total: 6

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = -2

Dinner:
1 cup mac & cheese = 9
1/4 pbj sandwich = 2
handful chocolate chips = 3
Sub-total: 14

TOTAL: 37 - 2 = 35

Tuesday Report, Week 7

Some recent developments are changing the way I will be dieting for the rest of the year. More updates soon... But I will still track my meals and exercise every day. I promise this to myself!

Today's weight: 130.5 lbs

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup granola = 2
1/8 cup raisins = 1
1/4 cup 2% milk = 1
Sub-total: 5

Snack:
1 slice Amish friendship bread = 3

Exercise:
1/2 hour Yoga Burn = -1

Lunch:
Romaine lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers = 0
2 slices ham = 1
.5 oz shredded cheese = 1
fat free dressing = 0
Sub-total: 2

Snack:
6 Oreos = 8
1 cup 2% milk = 2
Sub-total: 10

Exercise:
45 min Winsor Pilates = -1

Dinner:
1 cup chili = 6
.5 oz shredded cheese = 1
1 slice Amish friendship bread = 3
Sub-total: 10

TOTAL: 30 - 2 = 28

Starting Week 7

Today's Weight: 130 lbs

Breakfast:
2 fried eggs = 4
3 slices ham = 1
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 7

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = -2

Snack:
1 English muffin = 2
1 tsp strawberry jam = 1
1 applesauce muffin = 4
Sub-total: 7

Lunch:
6" Subway Club sandwich with light mayo & cheese = 10
2 bites meatball sub = 2
1/2 cup pink lemonade = 1
1/2 small dipped DQ ice cream cone = 4
Sub-total: 17

Dinner:
1.5 cups tuna helper = 9

TOTAL: 40 - 2 = 38 !!!

Sunday Report, Week 6

Today's Weight: 130 lbs

Breakfast:
1/2 orange = .5

Snack:
~20 high fiber Wheat Thins = 2.5

Lunch:
1 cup jasmine rice = 4
1/2 cup leftover Thai curry with chicken = 6
1 cup 1% milk = 2
3 oreos = 4
Sub-total: 16

Dinner:
1/2 cup cherrios = 1
1/2 cup 1% milk = 1
Sub-total: 2

TOTAL: 18

Saturday Report, Week 6

Today's Weight: 130.5 lbs

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup granola & raisins = 2
1/4 cup milk = 1
Sub-total: 5

Not finishing today...

Friday Report, Week 6

Today's Weight: 130 lbs

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup granola = 2
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 5

Lunch:
15 high fiber Wheat Thins = 2
1 can white tuna = 1
light mayo = 1
1 oz sliced cheese = 3
Sub-total: 7

Snack:
4 pieces Dove dark chocolate = 4

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = -2

Dinner:
2 cup lettuce, cucumber, tomato = 0
1 tbsp fat free dressing = 0
3 oz cooked shrimp = 2
2 fried shrimp = 1
Sub-total: 3

TOTAL: 19 - 2 = 17

Thursday Report, Week 6

Today's Weight: 130 lbs

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup granola = 2
1/2 cup 1% milk = 1
Sub-total: 4

Exercise:
45 min Denise Austin Pilates/Yoga = -1

Snack:
20 high fiber crackers = 2

Lunch:
1 fried egg = 2
3 slices ham = 1
1 light English muffin = 1
Ethan's left over pizza crust = 1
Sub-total: 5

Dinner:
3 oz chicken breast = 3
1 cup Rice-A-Roni broccoli cheese = 6
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 11

Dessert:
2 pieces Dove dark chocolate = 2

TOTAL: 24 - 1 = 23

Wednesday Report, Week 6

Today's Weight: 131 lbs

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup granola = 2
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
Sub-total: 4

Snack:
1 orange = 1
10 high fiber crackers = 1
Sub-total: 2

Lunch:
2 cups lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes = 0
2 tbsp fat free dressing = 0
2 slices ham = 1
Sub-total: 1

Snack:
1 fried egg = 2
2 slices ham = 1
Sub-total: 3

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = -2

Dinner:
1.5 cup tortellini = 7
1/4 cup marinara sauce = 1
Sub-total: 8

TOTAL: 18 - 2 = 16

Tuesday Report, Week 6

Today's Weight: 131.5 lbs

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup granola = 2
1/4 cup 1% milk = .5
Sub-total: 3.5

Exercise:
50 min pilates = -1

Snack:
8 high fiber Wheat Thins = 1
1 apple = 1
1/2 oz cheese = 1.5
Sub-total: 3.5

Lunch:
2 cups lettuce, tomato, cucumber = 0
1 tbsp fat free dressing = 0
3 slices ham = 1
1/2 oz shredded cheese = 1
Sub-total: 2

Dinner:
1/4 small deep dish pizza = 12

TOTAL: 21 - 1 = 20

Starting Week 6

Today's Weight: 131.5 lbs

I've been steady at this weight for an entire week while eating around 30 points a day. I think now I'm going to go back down to 18 points a day and see if I can't shave off a few more pounds. I would love to be out of the 130's by next week. Once I get to around 126, I'll do a metabolic recovery again for one week and see if I can maintain. If I can do that, I know that reaching my goal weight and staying there won't be a problem. 30 points a day is definitely a comfortable amount to eat for the long term.

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
1/4 cup granola cereal= 2
Sub-total: 4

Lunch:
1 fried egg = 2
3 slices ham = 1
1 light English muffin = 1
1/2 cup mac and cheese = 4
Sub-total: 8

Snack:
3/4 power bar = 3

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = -2

Dinner:
2 oz canned tuna = 2
2 cups lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, mushrooms = 0
2 tbsp fat free dressing = 0
Sub-total: 2

Dessert:
1 applesauce muffin = 4

TOTAL: 21 - 2 = 19

Sunday Report, Week 5

Today's Weight: 131.5 lbs

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup granola = 2
1/2 oz raisins = 1
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
Sub-total: 5

Went to church...

Snack:
1.5 servings high fiber Wheat Thins = 3

Linner:
1.5 cup cheese tortellini = 6
1/4 cup marinara sauce = 1
Sub-total: 7

Exercise:
20 min walking = 0

Dessert:
2 chocolate two-times cookies = 6
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 8

Snack:
1/2 cup cooked shrimp = 1
2 tbsp cocktail sauce = 1
Sub-total: 2

TOTAL: 25

Saturday Report, Week 5

Today's Weight: 131.5 lbs

Breakfast:
3/4 chocolate power bar = 3
1/2 cup 1% milk = 1
Sub-total: 4

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = -2

Lunch:
6" Subway Club sandwich with light mayo and cheese = 10

Snack:
2 chocolate pieces = 2

Dinner:
2 fried eggs = 4
3 slices ham = 1
1 English muffin = 2
sprinkle of shredded cheese = 1
Sub-total: 8

TOTAL: 24 - 2 = 22

Friday Report, Week 5

Today's Weight: 131.5 lbs

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup granola cereal = 2
1 tbsp raisins = 1
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 6

Snack:
10 Wheat Thins = 1

Lunch:
Chicken Caesar Salad at Friendly's = 10
Bites of quesadilla and ice cream = 2
Sub-total: 12

Snack:
2 pieces Dove dark chocolate = 2

Dinner:
Wedding Reception food = ?

TOTAL: ???

Thursday Report, Week 5

Today's Weight: 131 lbs

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
1/4 cup granola cereal = 2
Sub-total: 5

Snack:
15 high fiber Wheat Thins = 2

Lunch:
1 fried egg = 2
2 slices ham = 1
1 high fiber English muffin = 1
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 6

Snack:
3/4 oz cashews = 3

Dinner:
1.5 cups spaghetti noodles = 6
1/2 oz shredded cheese = 2
bit of pork sauce = 1
Sub-total: 9

Dessert:
3 pieces Dove dark chocolate = 3

TOTAL: 28

Wednesday Report, Week 5

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
1/4 cup granola cereal = 2
1 slice toast = 2
Sub-total: 6

Exercise #1:
45 min Rael System 17 Pilates = -1

Snack:
1 can tuna salad with light mayo = 3
15 high fiber Wheat Thins = 2
Sub-total: 5

Lunch:
1 fried egg = 2
2 slices ham = 1
1 English muffin = 2
Sub-total: 5

Snack:
1/2 oz cashews = 2

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = -2

Dinner:
2 small slices deep dish pizza = 10
3 pieces Dove dark chocolate = 3
Sub-total: 13

TOTAL: 31 - 3 = 28

Wednesday Measurements

Today's Weight: 131 lbs
Lost so far: 5 lbs

Today's Measurements:

Arm: 11.75
Bust: 35
Waist: 29
Ab: 37.5
Hips: 39
Thigh: 23.75
Calf: 13.75

No change since last week, but lost 7 inches so far.

Tuesday Report, Week 5

Today's Weight: 130.5 lbs

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
1/4 cup granola cereal = 2
Sub-total: 4

Snack:
8 high fiber veggie Wheat Thins = 1

Lunch:
2 fried eggs = 4
3 slices ham = 1
1 English muffin = 2
Sub-total: 7

Dinner:
1 cup cheesy rice = 8
4 oz grilled chicken = 3
1/4 mixed veggies = 0
Sub-total: 11

Dessert:/span>
1 cup hot chocolate = 2
2 slices toast with butter = 5
Sub-total: 7

TOTAL: 30

Starting Week 5

Today's Weight: 130.5 lbs
Lost so far: 5.5 lbs

On Saturday, I attended my second Curves Weight Management meeting. It marked the completion of Phases 1 & 2 of the diet. I am now supposed to move on to Phase 3, which is 2-4 weeks of metabolic recovery. The goal is to eat around 2000 calories a day. If my weight creeps up a bit, that is ok, as long as I don't go past 3 lbs of weight gain. Here's how it works:

My "low" weight (or current weight): 130 lbs
My "high" weight (low weight + 3): 133 lbs

Let's say I eat 2000 cal/day on Phase 3, and after 1 week I'm up to 133 lbs. I immediately have to switch back to 1200 cal/day (Phase 1) until I go back down to 130 lbs. Then I switch back to Phase 3. This time, it should take longer to go back up to 133 lbs (if it happens at all). Let's say I reach my high weight again after 2 weeks on Phase 3. I will switch to Phase 1 until I lose it. This cycle continues until I can maintain my weight at 130 lbs for two weeks on Phase 3. Essentially, I will have reset my metabolism to 2000 calories a day, which is ideal for long term weight management. When I reach my goal weight at some point in the future, I will be on Phase 3 forever so that I never gain back the weight I lost.

It is a little scary knowing that I might gain back half of what I've worked so hard to lose this last month. But, I do see the benefit of resetting my metabolism to burn 2000 cal/day. Other diets require that you keep restricting calories every time you hit a plateau in your weight loss. So by the time you've reached your goal weight, you are barely eating anything! If you want to maintain at that point, you can never increase your calorie intake, because your metabolism is set too low. You will gain lbs the second you start eating more. The Curves diet is short term sacrifice for long term success.

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
1/4 cup granola cereal = 2
Sub-total: 4

Lunch:
2 fried eggs = 4
3 slices deli ham = 1
1 English muffin = 2
Sub-total: 7

Snack:
1 cup grapes = 1
1 chocolate power bar = 4
Sub-total: 5

Dinner:
1 cup spaghetti noodles = 4
~1/2 cup pork marinara sauce = 5
6 tortilla chips = 2
1/4 cup taco salad dip = 3
Sub-total: 14

Exercise:
45 min Power Flex strength training = -2

Snack:
3 cups microwave popcorn = 3

TOTAL: 33 - 2 = 31

Sunday Report, Week 4

Today's Weight: 131 lbs

Breakfast: None

Went to church.

Lunch:
1 slice cheese pizza = 7
3/4 cup spaghetti noodles = 3
1/4 cup pork pasta sauce = 3
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 15

Dinner:
1 flour tortilla = 3
2 oz ground taco meat = 2
1/2 oz shredded cheese = 2
1/8 avocado = 1
1/8 cup black beans, corn & salsa = 2
1 tbsp light sour cream = 1
lettuce = 0
Sub-total: 11

Dessert:
1 slice Amish friendship bread = 3
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 5

TOTAL: 31

Saturday Report, Week 4

Today's Weight: 130 lbs
Lost so far: 6 lbs

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
1/4 cup granola cereal = 2
Sub-total: 4

Not finishing this report today. I went to a b-day party tonight and snacked and ate cake to my heart's desire. I'm allowed a free night once a month, right? We'll see what the scale says in the morning...

Friday Report, Week 4

Today's Weight: 131 lbs
Lost so far: 5 lbs

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
1/4 cup granola cereal= 2
Sub-total: 4

Snack:
15 high fiber veggie crackers = 2

Lunch:
1 cup spaghetti noodles = 4
1/4 cup pork marinara sauce = 3
Sub-total: 7

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = -2 (burned 477 calories)

Dinner:
3/4 cup beef and bean chili = 4
1/2 oz shredded cheese = 1.5
1-1/4 cup 1% milk = 2.5
Sub-total: 8

TOTAL: 21 - 2 = 19

Thursday Report, Week 4

Today's Weight: 130.5 lbs
Lost So Far: 5.5 lbs

Breakfast:
1 orange = 1
3/4 slice Amish friendship bread = 3
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 6

Snack:
9 high fiber veggie crackers = 1
1 oz colby jack cheese = 3
2 oz tuna salad w/ light mayo = 2
Sub-total: 6

Exercise:
Rael System 17 Pilates = -1

Lunch:
1 fried egg = 2
2 slices ham = 1
1 toasted English muffin = 2
Sub-total: 5

Snack:
1 cup diet root beer = 0
1 cup fat free ice cream = 2
Sub-total: 2

Dinner:
1 cup spaghetti noodles = 4
1/2 cup pork marinara sauce = 6
Sub-total: 10

Snack:
1/2 oz cashews = 2

TOTAL: 31 - 1 = 30

Wednesday Report, Week 4

Today's Weight: 131.5 lbs
Lost So Far: 4.5 lbs

Starting Measurements on 2/2/09 (inches):
Arm = 12.5
Bust = 37
Waist = 31
Abdominal = 38
Hips = 40
Thigh = 24.5

Today's Measurements (inches):
Arm: 11.75 ---> lost .75
Bust: 35 ---> lost 2
Waist: 29 ---> lost 2
Abdominal: 37.5 ---> lost .5
Hips: 39 ---> lost 1
Thigh: 23.75 ---> lost .75
Calf: 13.75
Total inches lost so far: 7

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
1/4 cup granola cereal= 2
Sub-total: 4

Snack:
15 high fiber veggie crackers = 2
>1 oz colby jack cheese = 3
1/2 apple = .5
Sub-total: 5.5

Lunch:
1 whole grain English muffin = 2
1 fried egg = 2
2 slices ham = 1
1/4 oz shredded cheese = .5
Sub-total: 5.5

Snack:
1 oreo cookie = 2

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = -2 (522 calories burned)

Dinner:
2 cups romaine lettuce and cucumbers = 0
2 tbsp fat free Italian dressing = 0
1/2 cup shrimp = 1
1/2 avacado = 3
1 cup Barilla plus pasta = 4
1/4 cup Barilla sauce = 0
1/4 cup corn = 1
Sub-total: 9

TOTAL: 26 - 2 = 24

Tuesday Report, Week 4

Today's Weight: 131.5 lbs

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
1/4 cup granola cereal= 2
Sub-total: 4

Lunch:
1 - 6" Subway Ham Sandwich = 6
w/ lite mayo and cheese = 4
Sub-total: 10

Snack:
1/2 PBJ sandwich = 2

Exercise:
50 min Winsor Pilates = -1

Dinner:
1 cup chili = 6
1/2 oz shredded cheese = 2
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 10

TOTAL: 26 - 1 = 25

Starting Week 4

Today's Weight: 133 lbs
Lowest Weight So Far was on 2/14: 131 lbs
Lost 5 lbs, then gained 2 lbs back...

I can't say that I have been following the Curves diet perfectly, but I can tell that 1300-1500 calories a day is too much for me. The weight isn't budging. If anything, it is creeping back on. And it's not muscle weight! I am doing resistance training at Curves 3 times/week, but muscle actually takes a long time to build. You won't see 2 lbs of muscle weight gain in one week.

Let's analyze my diet so far:

Week 1: I lost 4 lbs eating 1200 calories/day, exercising every day.

Week 2: I lost 1 more lb. But I got sick with a nasty cold virus during the week. I had no appetite, so ate about 1000 calories/day and didn't exercise. I think I may have sabotaged my metabolism, i.e. my body thought I was starving. What a joke that is! Week 2 was supposed to be when I started eating 1500 calories/day...

Week 3: Gained back 2 lbs while eating 1300-1500 calories/day, exercising every day.

Week 4: Starts today! My new plan is to stop tracking my calories on CurvesComplete.com, since my 1-month trial is almost up anyway. I will count Weight Watcher points, aiming to eat 18-22 points/day. That is about 1000-1200(?) calories/day. And I will alternate exercise every day between Curves strength training and Pilates. My goal is to lose 1-2 lbs.

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
1/4 cup granola cereal= 2
Sub-total: 4

Lunch:
1 cup Barilla Plus penne pasta = 4
1/8 cup roasted garlic sauce = 0
Sub-total: 4

Snack:
1/2 slice Amish friendship bread = 2

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = -1

Dinner:
1 cup chili = 6
1/2 oz shredded cheese = 2
2 tbsp light sour cream = 1
Sub-total: 9

TOTAL: 19 - 1 = 18

Sunday Report, Week 3

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
1/4 cup granola cereal= 2
Sub-total: 4

Snack:
1.5 oz salted cashews = 6

Lunch:
1 fried egg = 2
1 English muffin = 2
1/2 slice deli ham = 0
.25 oz shredded cheese = 1
Sub-total: 4

Dinner:
3 oz grilled chicken breast in oil = 3
2 tbsp Italian shredded cheese = 1
1/4 cup marinara sauce = 0
1 cup Barilla plus penne pasta = 4
1/2 cup 1% milk = 1
Sub-total: 9

Dessert:
1.5 slices Amish bread = 5
1/2 cup 1% milk = 1
Sub-total: 6

TOTAL: 29

Saturday Report, Week 3

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/8 cup 1% milk = .5
1/2 cup granola cereal & raisins = 3.5
Sub-total: 5

Snack:
13 high fiber Wheat Thins crackers = 2

Lunch:
1 slice bread = 2
1 tsp peanut butter = 1
smidge of grape jam = 0
Sub-total: 3

Dinner:
1-1/2 cups creamy Parmesan Tuna Helper = 9
1 cup steamed carrots and broccoli = 0
Sub-total: 9

Exercise:
50 min Winsor Pilates = -1

Dessert:
1/2 cup root beer = 1
1 cup fat free ice cream = 3
Sub-total: 4

TOTAL: 23 - 1 = 22

Friday Report, Week 3

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1/4 cup 1% milk = 1
1/3 cup granola cereal & raisins = 3
Sub-total: 5

Snack:
10 Cheez-it crackers = 2

Lunch:
1.5 slice bread = 3
1/2 tbsp peanut butter = 1
1/2 tbsp grape jam = 1
Sub-total: 5

Snack:
1 chocolate protein drink = 5

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = +1

Dinner:
1 cup white rice = 4
1 cup beef stir-fry = 3
Sub-total: 7

TOTAL: 22 - 1 = 21

Thursday Report, Week 3

Breakfast:
1 chocolate protein drink = 5

Lunch:
1 fried egg = 2
1 English muffin = 2
2 slices deli ham = 1
.25 oz shredded cheese = 1
Sub-total: 6

Snack:
1 tbsp peanut butter = 2

Exercise:
50 min Winsor Accelerated Pilates = +1

Dinner:
4 oz grilled chicken breast = 3
1 cup Rice-A-Roni country cheddar = 8
1 cup sauteed zucchini and mushrooms w/ oil = 1
Sub-total: 12

TOTAL: 25 - 1 = 24

Wednesday Report, Week 3

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1 cup 1% milk = 2
1/3 cup granola cereal & raisins = 3
Sub-total: 6

Snack:
13 high fiber wheat thins = 2
1 oz colby jack cheese = 3
1 can drained tuna with dill relish and Dijon mustard = 2
1 tbsp light mayo = 1
1 apple = 1
Sub-total: 9

Lunch:
1 chocolate protein drink = 5

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = +1

Dinner: (Planned)
1 cup white rice = 4
1 cup beef stir-fry = 3
Sub-total: 7

TOTAL: 27 - 1 = 26

Tuesday Report, Week 3

Breakfast:
1 chocolate protein drink = 5

Snack:
1 apple = 1
3/4 oz sliced cheese = 2
9 high fiber wheat thins = 1
Sub-total: 4

Dinner:
4 oz grilled chicken = 3
1 cup sauteed veggies = 0
1 tsp oil = 1
1 oz shredded cheese = 3
Sub-total: 7

Snack:
1 slice Amish friendship bread = 3

Dinner:
1 cup skillet baked spaghetti = 7
10 bittersweet chocolate chips = 1
Sub-total: 8

TOTAL: 27

Tuesday Thoughts

Starting weight: 136
Today's weight: 132.5 lbs
Lost so far: 3.5 lbs
# of days on diet: 17

Measurements (inches):
Arm: 12 ---> lost .5
Bust: 35 ---> lost 2
Waist: 29 ---> lost 2
Abdominal: 37.5 ---> lost .5
Hips: 39.5 ---> lost .5
Thigh: 24 ---> lost .5
Total inches lost so far: 6

I am convinced that the Curves diet is not taking into account different calorie requirements for different sized people. Phase 1/Week 1 was great. 1200 calories seemed to be just about right for me. I even felt like eating less than that. I can tell, because I've really started to be more in tune with my body's needs over the last couple of weeks: a greater sensitivity to when I'm hungry, when I've had enough to eat, and what kind of foods to eat, etc.

Anyway, when I switched to Phase 2 last week, the diet required me to raise my calorie intake to 1500 a day. Not one day did I feel anywhere near that hungry. Granted, I've been sick, so my appetite was not normal I suppose. Still, every day I would eat my normal meals until I felt full enough, and tried to eat a good proportion of proteins and carbs. At the end of the day, I would enter all the food on the Curves website where it calculates daily totals. My calories were coming up short every day, by about 300 or more. The owner at Curves encouraged me to follow the diet as closely as I can, so that I don't sabotage my metabolism. So yesterday I tried harder to eat the required amount of foods. It was really hard. I made myself eat more than I wanted to. By the end of the day I felt bloated, and the scale showed it this morning. On 1500 calories, I'm gaining weight back, instead of losing. Maybe my low calories last week already slowed down my metabolism too much? Or maybe it was because I was sick and didn't exercise at all? I don't really know.

It seems like I should be listening to my body more than anything else. Shouldn't it take less calories to sustain a small person like me than someone who is much larger or who needs to lose more weight? It makes sense to me. How can a diet prescribe 1500 calories a day for all ages, all sizes? Even Weight Watchers has a different range of daily points depending on your age and weight. So, my new plan is to stick mostly to counting points. It worked for me in the past. I know it will work again.

Monday, Back on the Band Wagon

I weighed in at Curves today. I was 132.5 lbs with clothes on, no shoes. Normally, I weigh myself first thing in the morning at home with nothing on to get a true measure. So, I'd say that's not too bad.

I'm feeling better now, despite a few remaining sniffles. So I'm trying to eat what I'm supposed to again. Here's hoping for a great week. I'll do my home weight and measurements tomorrow.

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1 cup 1% milk = 2
1/3 cup granola cereal & raisins = 3
Sub-total: 6

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = +1

Snack:
.5 oz cashews = 2

Lunch:
4 oz. grilled chicken breast = 3
1 oz. mozzarella cheese = 2
1 cup sauteed veggies = 0
1 tsp. oil = 1
1/2 cup whole wheat pasta = 1
1/4 cup tomato basil marinara = 0
Sub-total: 7

Snack:
1 chocolate power bar = 4
1/2 cup 1% milk = 1
Sub-total: 5

Dinner:
1 fried egg = 2
1 English muffin = 2
2 slices deli ham = 1
.5 oz shredded cheese = 1
Sub-total: 6

Dessert:
2 double chocolate cookies = 6
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 8

TOTAL: 34 - 1 = 33

Sunday Report, Week 2

I went to church without eating breakfast first. Big mistake! By the time I got home four hours later, I was starving and had a horrible headache. So I ate the first thing in sight, which happened to be a chocolate bar someone gave to me at church today. Noooo! I don't even know why I ate any of it. I hate Hershey's chocolate with a passion. So, I guess today is my "free" day...I just made that up. But it's back to business tomorrow! I can't ruin this diet just when I was starting to make progress.

Breakfast:
None

Snack:
1 oz milk chocolate bar = 3

Lunch:
1.5 cups skillet baked spaghetti = 10
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 12

Snack:
1 double chocolate chip cookie = 3
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 5

TOTAL: 20

Wow, this was a very unhealthy day. I just couldn't help but satisfy my chocolate craving after two weeks of denial. It was SO worth it! And somehow I managed not to go over my points...probably because I didn't eat any real food today. How embarrassing. But I'm allowed a day like this every once and a while, aren't I?

Saturday, Valentine's Day

Today is V-day, though I'm not feeling like celebrating. Dustin and I are both sick. Blah! So, no romantic evening planned for us. Not that we would have anything planned even if we weren't sick...we've never hired a babysitter and don't know that we ever will. I know, we're pretty boring.

Today's Weight: 131 lbs
Lost so far: 5 lbs

Breakfast:
1 chocolate protein drink = 5

Snack:
1 frosted sugar cookie = 3

Lunch:
Subway 6" club sandwich = 6
w/ light mayo and cheese = 4
Sub-total: 10

Dinner:
1 cup skillet-baked spaghetti = 7

TOTAL: 25

Friday Report, Week 2

Phase 2 isn't going so great, because I have a cold, and NO appetite. I'm having trouble eating in the higher point range, and I don't feel like cooking. So, we'll see how this affects the diet when I'm feeling better again.

Breakfast:
1/4 cup oatmeal = 1
1 cup 1% milk = 2
1/3 cup granola cereal & raisins = 3
Sub-total: 6

Lunch:
1 slice bread = 2
1/2 tbsp peanut butter = 2
1/2 tbsp grape jam = 0
Sub-total: 4

Dinner:
3/4 cup whole wheat pasta = 2
1/2 cup tomato & basil sauce = 1
1/2 cup cheese tortellini = 4
1 tbsp Parmesan cheese = 1
Sub-total: 8

TOTAL: 18

Thursday Report, Week 2

Breakfast:
1 chocolate protein drink = 5

Lunch:
1 cup whole grain pasta = 3
1/2 cup marinara sauce = 1
1 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese = 2
Sub-total: 6

Snack:
6 graham crackers = 3

Dinner:
2 slices toast = 4
smidge of butter = 1
hot chocolate = 3
1/4 cup milk = 1
Sub-total: 9

TOTAL: 23

Wednesday Report, Week 2

Not feeling well today. I'm going to take a break from exercising...

Breakfast:
1 chocolate protein drink = 5

Snack:
1 sliced apples = 1
1 tbsp creamy peanut butter = 2
Sub-total: 3

Lunch:
1 6 oz. grilled chicken breast = 4
1 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese = 2
1/4 cup marinara sauce = 1
1 cup sauteed onions & red bell peppers = 0
1 tsp olive oil = 1
2 cups romaine lettuce = 0
1 tbsp fat-free dressing = 0
Sub-total: 8

Dinner:
1 fried egg = 2
1 English muffin = 2
.25 oz shredded cheese = .5
1 slice ham = .5
Sub-total: 5

Tuesday Report, Week 2

Higher Point Goal = 30

Breakfast:
1/2 cup oatmeal = 2
1 cup 1% milk = 2
1/2 cup granola cereal & raisins = 4
Sub-total: 8

Snack:
Handful Quaker Oat Squares = 1

Lunch:
1 fried egg = 2
1 english muffin = 2
1 slice deli ham = .5
.25 oz shredded cheese = .5
Sub-total: 5

Exercise:
50 min Denise Austin Pilates = +2

Dinner:
1.5 cups 3-cheese tortellini = 8
1/2 cup marinara sauce = 1
1 tbsp grated parmesan = 1
Sub-total: 10

Snack:
1 chocolate protein drink = 5

TOTAL: 29 - 2 = 27

On to Phase 2...

This week I completed Phase 1 of the Curves diet. I tried hard to eat a higher percentage of proteins and less carbs. I avoided sweets completely! I did not eat one bite of chocolate all week. (I can't believe I did that!) And, I restricted my calories to around 1200 per day. I think I actually ate less than that. This may be the reason:

While tracking Weight Watcher "points" on this blog, I have also been tracking my food intake on CurvesComplete.com. I discovered that the Weight Watcher's point system doesn't exactly mesh with the Curves system. Meaning, the points are not equivalent to a certain number of calories. "Point" values are based on the calories, fat and fiber in foods. Whereas, CurvesComplete was trying to get me to eat certain amounts of protein, carbs, and calories. Anyway, at the end of every day I would figure out my points, aiming for between 18-24. But when I would go enter the same exact foods and quantities into CurvesComplete, it would usually come up short on carbs and calories. So, I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing...but I did lose 4 lbs and I feel good, so I must be doing something right! I don't want to rely on CurvesComplete too much because I won't be using it after the first month on this diet. (I have a one month free trial, and then it's $15 per month after that.) Then all I'll have is the point system to rely on.

Starting today, I am supposed to bump the calories to 1500, carbs to 160 g, and protein to 115 g. I think this will be hard, because I am not as hungry as I used to be. 1200 calories was plenty to fill me up. So, I will actually have to make myself eat a little more. I should be ok if I increase my serving size. On to another great week of dieting and exercise!

First Week Complete!

It's been a week since I kicked off my new diet. It's going great so far and I don't feel deprived of food like I have in past diets. I think the key is eating more often during the day. Three small meals and two snacks per day has been just enough to tame the "irrational and ravenously hungry me". I make way better food choices when I am not to the point of starvation at mealtime. And exercising every day has helped as well. Here's to kicking off another great week!

Today's Weight: 132 lbs
Lost So Far: 4 lbs

Measurements:
Arm = 12.25 - lost .25
Bust = 35.5 - lost 1.5
Waist = 30 - lost 1
Abdominal = 37.5 - lost .5
Hips = 40 - lost 0
Thigh = 24 - lost .5
Total inches lost so far: 3.75

Higher Point Goal = 30

Breakfast:
1/8 cup oatmeal = .5
1/4 cup 1% milk = .5
1/4 granola cereal = 2
Sub-total: 3

Snack:
12 high fiber crackers = 2
1 oz colby jack cheese = 3
1 apple = 1
2 slices deli ham = 1
Sub-total: 7

Lunch:
1 scoop chocolate protein drink = 3
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 5

Snack:
1/2 cup black bean, salsa & corn = 2
.25 oz shredded cheese = 1
Sub-total: 3

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = +1
Burned: 431 calories

Dinner:
1 cup Tuna Helper Creamy Parmesan = 7
1/4 cup mixed veggies = 0

Snack:
1.5 slices Amish bread = 4.5
1/4 cup 1% milk = .5
Sub-total: 5

TOTAL: 30 - 1 = 29

Sunday Report

For anyone who reads the nutritional info on the foods they eat, this is a great link to help you understand what really qualifies as "fat-free", "low-fat", etc.

Breakfast:
1 scoop protein drink mix = 3
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 5

Went to church...

Snack:
.5 oz cashews = 2

Lunch/Dinner:
1 serving chicken Marsala (4 oz meat) = 6
1 cup pasta = 4
Sub-total: 10

Snack:
1 slice low fat Amish friendship bread = 3

TOTAL: 20

Ok, I wasn't supposed to weigh myself today, but I did anyway. I'm back to 133, thankfully.

Saturday Report

I'm a little bummed this morning, because my weight went back up to 133.5. I have to remind myself that it's normal to have fluctuation during the week. I should probably only start weighing my self once a week from now on. My next weigh-in will be on Monday, since that that will be my first completed week of the Curves diet.

Breakfast:
1/4 cup cooked oatmeal = 1
1/4 1% milk = .5
1/4 cup natural granola cereal = 2
1 tbsp raisins = .5
Sub-total: 4

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves cardio/strength training = +1
Burned: 467 calories

Lunch:
1 cup chicken and dumplings = 8

Snack:
20 high fiber crackers = 3

Dinner:
1 scoop chocolate protein drink mix = 3
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Sub-total: 5

TOTAL: 18 - 1 = 17

Friday Report

Today's Weight: 133
Lost so far: 3

Breakfast:
Protein Drink = 5

Snack:
1-1/2 oranges = 1.5

Exercise:
1 hour Denise Austin pilates/yoga = +1

Lunch:
1/2 chicken breast = 1.5
sauteed squash & zucchini = 0
1/4 cup black beans & salsa = 0
.25 oz shredded cheese = 1
Sub-total: 2.5

Snack:
13 high fiber crackers = 2
1 can white tuna = 2
1 oz sliced cheese = 3
2 tbsp light mayo = 2
diced onion = 0
dijon mustard = 0
Sub-total: 9

Dinner:
1/2 cup spaghetti = 2
1/2 cup marinara sauce = 1
1/2 cup sauteed squash and zucchini w/ oil = 1
1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese = 1
Sub-total: 5

TOTAL: 23 - 1 = 22

Thursday Report

Today's Weight: 133
Lost So Far: 3

Breakfast:
1 whole grain English muffin = 2
1 fried egg = 2
1 slice ham = .5
.5 oz shredded cheese = 1.5
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Total: 8

Snack:
1 apple = 1
10 high fiber crackers = 2
.5 oz cheese slices = 1.5
Total: 4.5

Lunch:
1/2 chicken breast = 1.5
sauteed squash & zucchini = 0
1/4 cup black beans & salsa = 0
.25 oz shredded cheese = 1
Total: 2.5

Snack:
1/2 scoop protein drink mix = 1.5
1/2 cup 1% milk = 1
Total: 2.5

Exercise:
1/2 hour Curves strength training = +1
Burned: 461 calories

Dinner:
1.5 cheesy bread sticks: 8

TOTAL: 25.5 - 1 = 24.5

Wednesday Report

Today's Weight: 133.5
Lost so far: 2.5

Breakfast:
1 scoop protein drink mix = 3
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Total: 5

Snack:
1/2 cup strawberries = .5

Lunch:
1/4 cup cooked oatmeal = 1
1/4 1% milk = .5
1/4 cup natural granola cereal = 2
1/8 cup raisins = 1
1 fried egg = 2
1 slice deli ham = .5
Total: 7

Snack:
17 wheat thins high fiber 5-grain crackers = 3

Exercise:
45 minutes low-impact aerobics = +1

Dinner:
1 grilled chicken breast = 3
1/2 cup sauteed onion and red bell pepper w/ olive oil = 1
3/4 cup black beans and salsa = 1
1/2 oz shredded cheese = 1.5
Total: 5.5

TOTAL: 19 - 1 = 18

Tuesday Report

Today's Weight: 134
Point goal for today: 18

Breakfast:
1 scoop chocolate whey protein drink = 3
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Total: 5

Exercise:
1 hour Accelerated Pilates = +2 points

Snack:
1 apple = 1

Lunch:
1 whole grain English muffin = 2
1 egg, fried = 2
1 tbsp shredded cheese = 1
2 slices deli ham = 1
1/2 cup strawberries = 1
Total: 7

Snack:
1 cup baby carrots = 0

Dinner:
1 cup chicken and dumplings = 8

TOTAL: 21-2= 19

Monday Report - Kickstart!

Thanks to my friends out in Utah, I have further motivation to help get me going. My friend Crystal started a Facebook page devoted to keeping track of everyone's progress towards being healthy and losing weight. So far there are four of us. And today is the "Turbo Your Life Kickstart". We were all supposed to take "before" pictures, so here is mine, taken by my husband last night. I'm not sure what expression I'm making. I look a little exasperated or bewildered, as I should be! I am ready to kick my butt...

Me at 136 lbs. I currently wear size 12 jeans. (I know weights and sizes don't define me, this is just for reference.)
For even more inspiration, this is me in 2005 at my goal weight of around 115. I think those jeans are size 4. I still have them and I plan on wearing them again!My firstborn in this pic is now almost 6! And I also now have a 2-1/2 year old boy.

Starting Measurements (inches):
Arm = 12.5
Bust = 37
Waist = 31
Abdominal = 38
Hips = 40
Thigh = 24.5

Breakfast:
1 scoop chocolate whey protein drink mix = 3
1 cup 1% milk = 2
2 tbsp sugar free chocolate pudding mix = 1 (I got this suggestion from my Curves book but it tasted gross! Totally not doing that again.)
Total: 6

Snack:
1 apple = 1

Lunch:
2/3 cup cheese tortellini = 3
1/2 cup marinara sauce = 1
1/4 cup sauteed veggies = 0
Total: 4

Snack:
1 oz cashews = 4
1/2 cup 1% milk = 1

Dinner:
1 cup Chicken and Dumplings = 8

TOTAL: 24

Exercise: 1/2 Hour Curves Cardio & Strength Training

Sunday Report

Starting weight: 136
Point goal for today: 18

Breakfast:
1 scoop chocolate protein drink mix = 3
1 cup 1% milk = 2
Total: 5
Exchanges: 1 protein, 1 dairy

Lunch:
1 slice whole wheat bread = 2
2 oz tuna = 1
1 tsp mayo = 1
diced onion = 0
Dijon mustard = 0
romaine lettuce = 0
1 cup grapes = 1
Total: 5
Exchanges: 1 protein, 1 starch, 1 fruit, 1 fat

Snack:
1/2 oz cashew nuts = 2
1/2 cup 1% milk = 1
Exchanges: 1/2 protein, 1/2 dairy

Dinner:
1 cup three cheese tortellini = 5
1/2 cup marinara sauce with mushrooms = 1
sauteed zucchini, squash & onion w/ oil = 1
Total: 7
Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 veggie, 1 dairy ?

Daily TOTAL: 20

New weight management plan!

I just got home from a special meeting at Curves. They have a great weight management plan to help me reach my goal! I am so excited. It's based on counting calories, but they've already done the counting for me! I have a book with meal and snack options. The ingredients and exact serving sizes are all detailed out. You just have to pick 3 meals and 2 snacks for each day from the list. So simple! You can choose what they have listed, or you can exchange an item for something equivalent just by using the Nutritional Info on the packaging.

Phase 1 = 7 days eating 1200 calories per day

Phase 2 = 3 weeks eating 1500 calories per day

Phase 3 = 2-4 weeks eating 2000 calories per day, also called metabolic recovery

After that, the whole thing starts over again with phases 1 & 2 for 30 days, followed by phase 3 for 2-4 weeks. You perform this cycle for as long as it takes to reach your goal weight. Once you reach your goal weight, you stay in Phase 3 for maintenance.

I will update soon with how it's working out. For more info, go to CurvesComplete.com.

Current weight: 139 Goal weight: 115

I seriously need to lose 20 lbs by June...

Ok, here I go again. I've been going to Curves, but it doesn't seem to be enough. At least not when I only go 2-3 times a week. I really need to be doing Pilates at home on my off-days. AND...I need to curb my excessive eating! Because, at this point, I am barely maintaining my weight, and think I'm actually gaining. True, some of it could be muscle. Curves is helping me get stronger. But, I got on my own scale a couple days ago and was shocked to see that I had gained an additional 6 lbs since I started this blog several months ago. From 131 to about 137. I have never weighed that much in my life, except for when I was about 6 months pregnant. So frustrating! It really comes down to what I've been eating and what I haven't been doing as far as exercise.

But now I've got a little motivation, and a goal in mind. My mom is graduating from college with her Associates degree in June, and I plan on flying out there to be with her, my dad, and my sister for a couple of days. I can't imagine showing up looking like I do right now. Not to mention I have no clothes that fit me. I CAN NOT buy new clothes again...

So how do I do this? How do I lose 20 lbs by June? That's 5 months: losing 4 lbs per month, 1 lb per week. I've done it twice before, so I know that it's possible.

My biggest obstacle is food. I am unsure of how to proceed. When I first started this weight loss blog, I went a little too gung ho and actually started to resent the diet because I felt deprived of something I enjoy: eating yummy things. So I ended up blowing it completely and my little diet backfired. I lost 2 pounds initially and then gained back 5.

I've discovered that there is a switch inside my head that turns on and off when I'm hungry or full. When I'm hungry, the switch turns on and sends me into a different state of mind. I can actually feel the shift. First, I start feeling a sense of urgency to consume large quantities of food. I almost feel panicky, like there won't be enough food. I put way too much on my plate, thinking I need to eat that much. Then I eat fast, and I eat a lot, most of the time getting seconds. I'm not sure where this starvation mentality came from. Genetics? My cave man ancestors? Then, when I'm full, the switch turns off and I'm normal me again. But it's too late at that point. I've already eaten too much and I feel sick. I am disgusted by food until I get hungry again and the switch turns back on. Does any of this sound familiar to anyone else? I can't seem to stop the cycle. I don't know how to rationally think about the food I am eating at the moment I am eating it. Because when that switch is turned on, not only do I make really bad decisions about how much to eat, but also what I eat.

I've always had a theory that if I didn't have to make the eating decisions in my life, that I would be better off. That is, if I had a private dietitian/chef who cooked for me every day and gave me the correct quantity and quality of food at each meal... I know, I know...it's not going to happen. So unfortunately, I'm all I've got. Somehow, I have to make this work.