What I Did:
I started working on losing weight last August before a big 60th birthday party for me and my husband. I have lost 15 pounds and kept it off. I gained back four over the holidays and now have gotten rid of that again and another pound besides.
How I Did It:
I drive 40 minutes to one hour each way to work. I used to have trail mix or almonds, or some type of protein, in the car. I switched to an apple or string cheese and chew sugar-free gum when my mouth wants to be doing something. I also bought an exercise video which has 12 minute segments -- both cardio and strength-training for upper body and lower body. It is just the right amount of time for me to do a set before I leave for work or a couple sets when I get home. I also got rid of most of the junk food at home, and if I have some crackers, or pistachios or some type of snack, I count out my allotted serving, rather than just have an open bag and keep munching. I do lots of salads for lunch and very few desserts. I have a dark chocolate Hershey's Kiss if I need a bite of something sweet.
Tips and Tricks
- Eat lots of fruits and veggies.
- Chew gum.
- Find low- calorie snacks like pretzels or string cheese.
- If you get off track, accept it for a one-time failure and start again.
- You can do it.
What was your main motivator to lose weight?
Looking in the mirror, knowing I didn't want to be that heavy for my party or for my health.
What was the hardest part of losing weight?
Eating healthy every meal and not snacking on high calorie snacks. I crave salt and it is hard to stay away from the chips and crackers and those healthy nuts which have so much fat.
What was the most surprising part of weight loss?
I do feel better and my blood pressure and cholesterol dropped, which was a big bonus. My doctor was very pleased.
What would you say to someone who is "on the fence"?
You have to do it for yourself, not for someone else. Otherwise you lose your motivation.
