Staying Motivated for the Long Haul
My biggest obstacle to maintaining a healthy weight is a seemingly invisible "switch" that goes on and off in my brain. When it's "on" I am in the zone and can avoid the most decadent temptations and will exercise faithfully. But, about a year to 15 months into my healthy lifestyle, the switch turns to "off" and I lose focus and revert to my bad habits of poor food choices (both in what I eat and how much I eat) and I become more sedentary. I am at that point now and I feel a slow panic building as the number on the scale inches upward. I know what I should do, but I am at a loss as to how to get my mojo back. Suggestions, anyone!?
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@rosemarya @techi I have my salad in a separate bowl so I put my other food, usually just some of whatever meat or fish we are having on a small plate. I very rarely buy bread to go with dinner because I know it is one of my downfalls.
JK
@contentandwell I appreciate the encouragement . The other night my husband took me to a restaurant l really didn't want to go but l did. When l looked at the menu nothing turned me on and this is a restaurant l loved to go to. When l finally ordered my order was a salad. My husband was in awe and said is that what you want. Surprisingly it was great but now for dessert l ordered a cake and l haven't earned it yet. And l am trying so hard to drink more water but that's a challenge. So l have taken your advice and l brought some smaller containers to divide my food it to smaller servings. As far as me losing my weight before l believe it was from all the surgeries and rehab. And l did more walking but then when l couldn't get out much because of continuous falling that hindered me but now l am trying to get back. I have to still have to be very careful when my ammonia levels go up but l am watching videos and Peloton has a new walking program and you can get trainers to help you. I thought this was incredible to help motivate people who just want to walk. I will keep you up to date with how l am doing.
"And l am trying so hard to drink more water but that's a challenge". I try to have 4 cups of green tea early in day. Then I drink water w a few drops of strawberry or cherry extract - little ice and great flavor.
@mari Have you tried sliced cucumber in ice water w/ a splash of apple cider vinegar??? Very refreshing.
@mari l have tried a mixture of cucumber, blackberries and lemon. That was horrible. I guess if had added a sweetener it might have tasted better. Then again l have to eliminate sugar and salts so it's like at catch22. But maybe l will try the green tea first. Do you add anything to it? And you are using extract from the seasoning section? That would be good because l guess l won't need surgery. Thanks for the tip.
I enjoy a twist of lemon or lime in ice water!
I keep a pitcher on the kitchen counter, and every time I walk thru the kitchen I am reminded to take a drink.
I also carry a refillable water bottle with me at all times. This is how I can avoid grabbing something from a drink machine. The added benefit is that I am not tempted by the snacks in a nearby machine! Out of sight - Out of mind!
I would like to join in this subject. I am at my top weight and hate it. Weight used to be no problem, but I have now allowed it to become one. I eat from boredom and anxiety. I would like to lose 20 pounds. I'm packing now to move us to a retirement community and know I would not be willing to diet, but after our move, I'm hoping to begin a new lifestyle. I will have no excuses. LOL Easy walking, swimming, exercise equipment, and hopefully some exercises classes. I will stay in touch and hopefully, we can encourage each other.
@liz223, I am so-o-o happy that you have joined this conversation!
Wishing you a safe move. I will be looking forward to hearing more from you as soon as you get settled in!
Rosemary
@rosemarya have you ever added apple cider vinegar? I have tried apple cider vinegar with lemon, honey, and cinnamon but l can only take a glass full. That apple cider vinegar you just have to pray Lord let me not taste the vinegar. But they say it helps curb your appetite. You are suppose to take it before you eat. I think its 2hrs before. I haven't done it but three times and l have all these bottles but l am going to get back on it. And l tried lemon water but l have to add a little sweetener so l might try honey.
@techi skip the vinegar and just eat an apple or drink a glass of water 15-20 minutes before a meal. It's better for you and tastes a lot better!