So I stepped onto my new workout gadget... that side slide or whatever the hell it's called.
I've been fighting off a cold for almost a week now and after ten minutes on this thing I was out of breath, sweating and worn out. I'm all for pushing myself... but I also like to breathe.
So after ten minutes, I slowed down and stopped. I consider rolling the damn thing up and putting it away a "cool down."
As far as the diet goes, I was really good today... except for the whole water thing. What the hell is it about cold weather that makes it almost impossible to drink all the freaking water I'm supposed to?
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Smaller Than A Treadmill
So, I'm going to be moving in the next two months. I'm thrilled, it's a two-story house! Which means... running upu and down the stairs will do wonders for my ass! A house with a built-in workout, yippee!
Originally, I had planned to buy a treadmill and Total Gym, but I've decided on just the Total Gym. A couple of months ago my mom gave me a sideslide or something like that... anyway, it's a slippery mat with special booties that go on over your shoes and you can literally "skate" or "rollerblade" in place! It's a much better workout than I thought. I put off digging it out of the box... I should have been on this thing months ago.
Anyway, I've been down with a nasty cough and some allergies, so I couldn't pull off more than ten minutes (weak and pathetic, I know) of sliding. Still, it was a great ten minutes and I"m definitely going to be doing this daily. Plus, it's a cinch to store, I can roll it up and store it under my bed at the new house... much easier to deal with than a treadmill!
This afternoon I'm going to get back on the pilates track with a twenty minute workout, that will be thirty minutes of working out and who knows how much time spent packing and doing household maintenence.
;o)
Today:
2 cups of coffee, sweetened with Splenda and a splash of heavy whipping cream (almost no carbs)
1 Atkins Vanilla Shake (in the can, not bad!)
Water
1 Pria Bar - chocolate mint, tolerable, a great way to curb a sweet craving.
All this has been spread out from 7am to Noon (now)
Supplements:
1 W2W pack
Potassium
Green Tea Extract
Cortislim
Originally, I had planned to buy a treadmill and Total Gym, but I've decided on just the Total Gym. A couple of months ago my mom gave me a sideslide or something like that... anyway, it's a slippery mat with special booties that go on over your shoes and you can literally "skate" or "rollerblade" in place! It's a much better workout than I thought. I put off digging it out of the box... I should have been on this thing months ago.
Anyway, I've been down with a nasty cough and some allergies, so I couldn't pull off more than ten minutes (weak and pathetic, I know) of sliding. Still, it was a great ten minutes and I"m definitely going to be doing this daily. Plus, it's a cinch to store, I can roll it up and store it under my bed at the new house... much easier to deal with than a treadmill!
This afternoon I'm going to get back on the pilates track with a twenty minute workout, that will be thirty minutes of working out and who knows how much time spent packing and doing household maintenence.
;o)
Today:
2 cups of coffee, sweetened with Splenda and a splash of heavy whipping cream (almost no carbs)
1 Atkins Vanilla Shake (in the can, not bad!)
Water
1 Pria Bar - chocolate mint, tolerable, a great way to curb a sweet craving.
All this has been spread out from 7am to Noon (now)
Supplements:
1 W2W pack
Potassium
Green Tea Extract
Cortislim
Sunday, February 12, 2006
A Post Worthy of the Title?
Maybe... ok, got a tip on a killer butt make-over routine that can be done in - get this - 7 minutes! Check it out, from what I've read it appears that this routine might just have you screaming your ass off for the entire 7 minutes! I might give it a try.
Back to the Total Gym... I've been sticking to the diet for the last week, I've dropped a couple of pounds, but until I get back to where I was the last time I posted my little scale thing on here... I won't be posting the little scale thing back here. ;o)
The sad, pathetic fact is that I can diet myself into sheer misery but am really only going to get the results I want if I add exercise into the scenario. So, I'm back to a 20 - 30 minute Total Gym workout - DAILY and the 20 minute Pilates workout every evening - DAILY. Between those two things I lost 27 pounds last year.
My ultimate goal is a weight loss (from the exact point I am at now) of 30 pounds. From there I can decide if I want to drop another 10 - 20 pounds. Ideally, I'd love to weigh about 125... but, I know that I look pretty darn good at 140 too.
*sigh*
Back to the Total Gym... I've been sticking to the diet for the last week, I've dropped a couple of pounds, but until I get back to where I was the last time I posted my little scale thing on here... I won't be posting the little scale thing back here. ;o)
The sad, pathetic fact is that I can diet myself into sheer misery but am really only going to get the results I want if I add exercise into the scenario. So, I'm back to a 20 - 30 minute Total Gym workout - DAILY and the 20 minute Pilates workout every evening - DAILY. Between those two things I lost 27 pounds last year.
My ultimate goal is a weight loss (from the exact point I am at now) of 30 pounds. From there I can decide if I want to drop another 10 - 20 pounds. Ideally, I'd love to weigh about 125... but, I know that I look pretty darn good at 140 too.
*sigh*
Monday, February 06, 2006
Savoring The Bitchy....
Had a cup of coffee this morning and now am attempting to savor an Atkins shake. I use the term "savor" loosely. I took my Cortislim because I don't give a damn what anyone thinks, it actually works for me.
The cramps are kicking in now and it's making me a tad testy... if you read my other blog you can witness my PMS through my rants about the whole Rent My Blog thing.
Anyway, I'm back on the wagon after a weekend of overindulging... I don't know why I flake out on the weekends. I'm really bad about it and I'm having a much harder time getting back on track than I originally anticipated.
One day at a time... right?
The cramps are kicking in now and it's making me a tad testy... if you read my other blog you can witness my PMS through my rants about the whole Rent My Blog thing.
Anyway, I'm back on the wagon after a weekend of overindulging... I don't know why I flake out on the weekends. I'm really bad about it and I'm having a much harder time getting back on track than I originally anticipated.
One day at a time... right?
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Define "On Track"
Picked up a few boxes of the Atkin's canned shakes. The chocolate is tolerable... at best.
Also picked up some protein bars because I am not one of those people who could survive on a liquid diet. Eventually I am going to have to chew something and if I don't have something that works with the diet on-hand to chew... I'm going to binge like an drunk at an open bar.
Finally got back on the diet track today... I don't know if that actually counts as being "on track" if it's only one day, you know?
Keeping score a bit, I've had one protein bar, 1 shake, a fried egg, green tea and water.
I can do this... I did it before. I know if I can get past the cravings at the start, then it will all become much easier.
Wish me luck!
Also picked up some protein bars because I am not one of those people who could survive on a liquid diet. Eventually I am going to have to chew something and if I don't have something that works with the diet on-hand to chew... I'm going to binge like an drunk at an open bar.
Finally got back on the diet track today... I don't know if that actually counts as being "on track" if it's only one day, you know?
Keeping score a bit, I've had one protein bar, 1 shake, a fried egg, green tea and water.
I can do this... I did it before. I know if I can get past the cravings at the start, then it will all become much easier.
Wish me luck!
Monday, January 30, 2006
Getting Going... I Think I Can... I Think I Can...
Ahhh, another over indulgent birthday week (yes, we celebrate WEEKS around here) has come to a close. While most people jump on the resolution bandwagon around January 1st... I prefer to wait until MY new year January 26th.
Actually, I'm not big on resolutions, call me a non-conformist if you must, but I refuse to run with the rest of the lemmings making up little wishes (because they aren't really goals for 99% of people out there) that I doubt will come true, much less have any realistic plan of following up on anyway.
After a taste of weight loss success last year, I am yearning for more. What I don't understand is why it's so hard to get back INTO the groove again? It seems harder to get going again than it was to make up my mind to start to begin with.
My plan is to load up on Atkins or Slimfast shakes (the low carb, no sugar stuff) and protein bars... I know, it's not exactly healthy... but I plan to do this during the day and either have a decent breakfast or a decent dinner. Once I get the old ball rolling again I'll introduce healthy, low-carb alternatives to the high-sugar junk food I've been indulging in for the last... oh... 4 months.
Actually, I'm not big on resolutions, call me a non-conformist if you must, but I refuse to run with the rest of the lemmings making up little wishes (because they aren't really goals for 99% of people out there) that I doubt will come true, much less have any realistic plan of following up on anyway.
After a taste of weight loss success last year, I am yearning for more. What I don't understand is why it's so hard to get back INTO the groove again? It seems harder to get going again than it was to make up my mind to start to begin with.
My plan is to load up on Atkins or Slimfast shakes (the low carb, no sugar stuff) and protein bars... I know, it's not exactly healthy... but I plan to do this during the day and either have a decent breakfast or a decent dinner. Once I get the old ball rolling again I'll introduce healthy, low-carb alternatives to the high-sugar junk food I've been indulging in for the last... oh... 4 months.
Friday, January 27, 2006
The New Meaning Of "Hauling Ass"
I turned 30 yesterday and already I am loving it more than I did my twenties. Of course, maybe the reality hasn't set it in yet? Hmmm... that's enough to make me super neurotic so I'll stop thinking about it.
My mom took me out for dinner last night... it was a lot of fun. The meal was not diet friendly, but oh well, you only turn 30 once right? And, of course, I am a pro at finding excuses to fuck up my diet.
I was telling her that I really want a treadmill. We're moving in a couple of months and I plan on purchasing a treadmill, Total Gym and probably a Gazelle Glider (for hubby... I hate that damn thing).
My mom loves to walk... I don't. I can't get over the fact that you walk AWAY from your car and that by the time you get tired and are done walking you have to walk ALL the way back to your car. If you are on a treadmill you just walk until you are tired and then haul your ass on over to the couch until you feel better. You know?
My mom took me out for dinner last night... it was a lot of fun. The meal was not diet friendly, but oh well, you only turn 30 once right? And, of course, I am a pro at finding excuses to fuck up my diet.
I was telling her that I really want a treadmill. We're moving in a couple of months and I plan on purchasing a treadmill, Total Gym and probably a Gazelle Glider (for hubby... I hate that damn thing).
My mom loves to walk... I don't. I can't get over the fact that you walk AWAY from your car and that by the time you get tired and are done walking you have to walk ALL the way back to your car. If you are on a treadmill you just walk until you are tired and then haul your ass on over to the couch until you feel better. You know?
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Overindulgence Thy Name is Ghiradelli
I haven't slept in two nights. My youngest is down with a nasty bug and as most parents know, if the baby doesn't sleep... neither do you.
I grabbed a cup of coffee this morning as I ran out the door to take the older kids to school and then take the baby to the doctor. Not wanting to infect the newborns in the waiting room I opted to stand out in the hall, rocking my two-year old back and forth until my legs lost most of the feeling from the knees down.
By the time I got home today I put the baby to bed and heated up some leftover soup from last night. There were chunks of tofu and mushrooms and practically no carbs at all.
The same could not be said for the leftover Christmas candy that seemed to be screaming my name and begging me to rip into it and savor each delectable chocolatey bite.
Ever seen those romantic, sexy commercials for Ghiradelli chocolate that feature some hot chickie-pie relaxing and savoring ONE square of chocolate? Yeah, well... Bullshit.
In the time she takes to savor one I can have 4 choked down with half a glass of milk.
It's probably sleep deprivation, stress and well... I'm turning 30 tomorrow.
I grabbed a cup of coffee this morning as I ran out the door to take the older kids to school and then take the baby to the doctor. Not wanting to infect the newborns in the waiting room I opted to stand out in the hall, rocking my two-year old back and forth until my legs lost most of the feeling from the knees down.
By the time I got home today I put the baby to bed and heated up some leftover soup from last night. There were chunks of tofu and mushrooms and practically no carbs at all.
The same could not be said for the leftover Christmas candy that seemed to be screaming my name and begging me to rip into it and savor each delectable chocolatey bite.
Ever seen those romantic, sexy commercials for Ghiradelli chocolate that feature some hot chickie-pie relaxing and savoring ONE square of chocolate? Yeah, well... Bullshit.
In the time she takes to savor one I can have 4 choked down with half a glass of milk.
It's probably sleep deprivation, stress and well... I'm turning 30 tomorrow.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Moooooo, just close the pasture gate and call me Bessie.
Did a 20 minute Pilates workout last night. Today I was stressing a bit and had a bit of a binge this afternoon. I don't suppose the pilates last night makes up for it, does it?
It's probably just me, but I've noticed lately that when I hit the weight I am now originally last summer, I was thrilled, I felt stronger and had more energy, most importantly, I felt slimmer!
Now, that I am at this weight and even though it is far less than what I started out at, I feel like a cow.
It's cold, so I can't bring myself to guzzle all the water I should be and every day I am finding more and more excuses to avoid following my diet.
Worse yet, here I am whining about it.
My apologies.
Tomorrow is another day... and I'll get back on the horse, bicycle or whatever the hell it is then.
It's probably just me, but I've noticed lately that when I hit the weight I am now originally last summer, I was thrilled, I felt stronger and had more energy, most importantly, I felt slimmer!
Now, that I am at this weight and even though it is far less than what I started out at, I feel like a cow.
It's cold, so I can't bring myself to guzzle all the water I should be and every day I am finding more and more excuses to avoid following my diet.
Worse yet, here I am whining about it.
My apologies.
Tomorrow is another day... and I'll get back on the horse, bicycle or whatever the hell it is then.
Monday, January 23, 2006
It's Been Too Long...
Ok, I admit, I fell off the face of the earth.
The holidays were not kind to me, in fact, I gained back over 7 pounds. Ouch.
I feel like a failure and I didn't want this blog to turn into one of those whiney blogs where post after post is an "Oh poor me!" sob story.
I'm actually ok with things. I've started working out again, I'm using Cortislim, Cinnamon, and Taurine. It's always hard to get back into the groove when you've skipped out of it for so long, but I'm trying and that's all that counts, right?
(I know, Yoda... "Try not... do.")
I just returned from a weekend getaway to the coast with my wonderful husband. We both need to lose at least 30 pounds a piece. I'd really rather prefer to lose at least 40 myself. At last count my total weight loss was about 27lbs. and after my holiday screw up I've got to lose an additional five to get back to my 27lb. spot.
I'm finding myself losing determination... which is ridiculous. I'm going to be 30 on Thursday and have every reason in the world to be determined to lose the weight. It's not even as if I'm as heavy as those people on "Biggest Loser" I'm more in the Kelly LeBrock area from "Celebrity Fit Club 3" not to compare looks... just to say that's about the weight area I'm sitting in.
I'm a solid size 12 and to me it might as well be a solid size 20... it feels every bit as large.
Auuugh!!!!
Bastard hormones.
The holidays were not kind to me, in fact, I gained back over 7 pounds. Ouch.
I feel like a failure and I didn't want this blog to turn into one of those whiney blogs where post after post is an "Oh poor me!" sob story.
I'm actually ok with things. I've started working out again, I'm using Cortislim, Cinnamon, and Taurine. It's always hard to get back into the groove when you've skipped out of it for so long, but I'm trying and that's all that counts, right?
(I know, Yoda... "Try not... do.")
I just returned from a weekend getaway to the coast with my wonderful husband. We both need to lose at least 30 pounds a piece. I'd really rather prefer to lose at least 40 myself. At last count my total weight loss was about 27lbs. and after my holiday screw up I've got to lose an additional five to get back to my 27lb. spot.
I'm finding myself losing determination... which is ridiculous. I'm going to be 30 on Thursday and have every reason in the world to be determined to lose the weight. It's not even as if I'm as heavy as those people on "Biggest Loser" I'm more in the Kelly LeBrock area from "Celebrity Fit Club 3" not to compare looks... just to say that's about the weight area I'm sitting in.
I'm a solid size 12 and to me it might as well be a solid size 20... it feels every bit as large.
Auuugh!!!!
Bastard hormones.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Not Quite A Thanksgiving Lament....
I over-indulged this Thanksgiving. I laughed, I drank wine, I ate pie.
I have no shame in admitting that I am in maintenence mode. The goal is to simply get through December and maintain my weight loss. Originally, I really felt that I could continue losing... but as the days go by the chances of that seem rather remote. I refuse to suffer through the holidays.
Right after Christmas - I am back in weight loss mode. No excuses.
Until then, all of my new clothes still fit, my Thanksgiving indulgence caused me to gain a few pounds in water weight which have already burned off, thankfully. ;o) I'm keeping up with all of my vitamins and supplements far more faithfully than my posts to this blog, I'm afraid.
Has anyone noticed that there have not been any NEW Kirstie Alley commercials since Thanksgiving? I'm betting that twit over-indulged with the rest of us. *evil laugh*
I have no shame in admitting that I am in maintenence mode. The goal is to simply get through December and maintain my weight loss. Originally, I really felt that I could continue losing... but as the days go by the chances of that seem rather remote. I refuse to suffer through the holidays.
Right after Christmas - I am back in weight loss mode. No excuses.
Until then, all of my new clothes still fit, my Thanksgiving indulgence caused me to gain a few pounds in water weight which have already burned off, thankfully. ;o) I'm keeping up with all of my vitamins and supplements far more faithfully than my posts to this blog, I'm afraid.
Has anyone noticed that there have not been any NEW Kirstie Alley commercials since Thanksgiving? I'm betting that twit over-indulged with the rest of us. *evil laugh*
Monday, November 14, 2005
Screw Kirstie and Jenny...
More than anything (for the most part) I cannot stand feeling like a failure.
Those damn Jenny Craig commercials with Kirstie Alley aren't helping either. I'm snarky enough to say that 50 pounds or not... that woman has still got a couple dozen more to go at least... and if I had her ass (which thankfully I don't) I would NOT be wearing those snug little dresses she likes to comically scoot around in on those commercials.
So THERE... snark, snark!
I can really be such a bitch, I know.
So, here I am just where I was the last time you checked in. Sitting happily (because it's better than the alternative I previously experienced) between 157 and 159 - given the time of day and the hormone cycle. I'm still on the W2W and just received a new shipment actually. I've also had a couple of calls from one of their nurses (you get 3 free consultations) reminding me that I still have three consultations. I can't seem to find the time to actually get on the phone uninterrupted. Most of the people I talk to don't mind if I have to pause and yank a pen away from a 22 month old - who will then in turn begin screaming at the top of her lungs.
The other reason is that I cannot stand to actually talk to strangers on the phone. I just don't like it. I used to force myself to and have now decided that this is one of those things that I really shouldn't have to subject myself to unless it is either A.) A life or death situation or B.) It is absolutely necessary and my husband is refusing to make the damn call.
So, there I am. Still watching everything that goes into my mouth (good or bad), dealing with severe allergies that make it extremely difficult to exercise (this is a nasty excuse to be lazy because I just don't want to) and fortunately watching closely enough to prevent myself from gaining back anything that I have struggled to peel off.
Those damn Jenny Craig commercials with Kirstie Alley aren't helping either. I'm snarky enough to say that 50 pounds or not... that woman has still got a couple dozen more to go at least... and if I had her ass (which thankfully I don't) I would NOT be wearing those snug little dresses she likes to comically scoot around in on those commercials.
So THERE... snark, snark!
I can really be such a bitch, I know.
So, here I am just where I was the last time you checked in. Sitting happily (because it's better than the alternative I previously experienced) between 157 and 159 - given the time of day and the hormone cycle. I'm still on the W2W and just received a new shipment actually. I've also had a couple of calls from one of their nurses (you get 3 free consultations) reminding me that I still have three consultations. I can't seem to find the time to actually get on the phone uninterrupted. Most of the people I talk to don't mind if I have to pause and yank a pen away from a 22 month old - who will then in turn begin screaming at the top of her lungs.
The other reason is that I cannot stand to actually talk to strangers on the phone. I just don't like it. I used to force myself to and have now decided that this is one of those things that I really shouldn't have to subject myself to unless it is either A.) A life or death situation or B.) It is absolutely necessary and my husband is refusing to make the damn call.
So, there I am. Still watching everything that goes into my mouth (good or bad), dealing with severe allergies that make it extremely difficult to exercise (this is a nasty excuse to be lazy because I just don't want to) and fortunately watching closely enough to prevent myself from gaining back anything that I have struggled to peel off.
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
Cinnamon...
Ok... just got my daily tip from Dr. Weil (yes, I am subscribed to his daily tips and articles. Occasionally I find them most informative!)
Studies have shown that cinnamon can help diabetics control their blood sugar.
So, cinnamon, cayenne, and vinegar...
More simple kitchen staples that can help in controlling blood sugar.
Interesting, eh?
Today I surfed over to www.vitaminshoppe.com and placed an order for
With all the supplements it's a wonder I ever get hungry.
Still... I guess I'm a bit superstitious because I was using all of these things and losing weight. Even now when I don't adhere to my diet as strictly as I should I don't GAIN weight back... so I'm a little leery of dropping ANY of them for fear of the fat sneaking up and attaching itself to my ass, thighs, stomach or wherever.
Studies have shown that cinnamon can help diabetics control their blood sugar.
So, cinnamon, cayenne, and vinegar...
More simple kitchen staples that can help in controlling blood sugar.
Interesting, eh?
Today I surfed over to www.vitaminshoppe.com and placed an order for
- Apple Cider Vinegar plus Cayenne and Grapefruit Rind - capsules
- Cinnamon extract capsules
- Garlic - which may or may not have any impact on blood sugar, but I've noticed that when I take these regularly it helps with loads of things from blood pressure, digestion, and preventing colds.
With all the supplements it's a wonder I ever get hungry.
Still... I guess I'm a bit superstitious because I was using all of these things and losing weight. Even now when I don't adhere to my diet as strictly as I should I don't GAIN weight back... so I'm a little leery of dropping ANY of them for fear of the fat sneaking up and attaching itself to my ass, thighs, stomach or wherever.
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Vinegar and Blood Sugar Control
I was reading the message boards over at SoulCysters.Com and someone mentioned that they were using vinegar to control their blood sugar. I haven't had the time to research it online but I sure plan to.
Oddly enough though, when I was really on a roll with the weight loss and the weight was just peeling off I was taking Taurine and Apple Cider Vinegar Capsules with Grapefruit rind and Cayenne. Earlier today I was reading a website that had a product for diabetics that was all-natural and it contained Cayenne as just one of its' ingredients. Taurine is a supplement that I read about on Pam Ptyza's PCOS page (see link on the left over there) it's one of the main ingredients in Sugar-Free Red Bull.
Could it be that there are natural and organic remedies in our kitchens that can help regulate blood sugar and reduce if not completely eliminate insulin resistence?
I've already seen where vitamins and progesterone cream have begun to regulate my cycles and reduce other symptoms of PCOS as well.
Lately, I've been poking around the Net more in search of more information on current PCOS treatments. It's both disheartening and sort of refreshing to see that while more and more sources are siting Insulin Resistence as the root cause of PCOS most of the treatments that are recommended are a lot of the things I am already doing. (vitamins, diet changes, exercise, natural supplements)
Sure, there is always glucophage or metaformin (diabetic medications that have been used with success with PCOS patients) but I'm not fond of putting more chemicals into my body than I already am. Still, it's certainly an advancement compared to the old stand-by of "got PCOS? Don't want to get pregnant? Great... here are some birth control pills, now go away."
And, birth control pills are only a band-aid. Without significant diet and lifestyle changes the PCOS symptoms can return... only WORSE.
So, on one hand I'm pleased that I know the right things to do and can do them without killing myself. On the otherhand, I'm disappointed that there isn't some magic pill to make it all go away.
Don't get me wrong... I miss sugar, I miss bread and I'm not giving up caffeine or the occasional adult beverage.
Moderation... find a happy medium and just keep trying, I guess.
Oddly enough though, when I was really on a roll with the weight loss and the weight was just peeling off I was taking Taurine and Apple Cider Vinegar Capsules with Grapefruit rind and Cayenne. Earlier today I was reading a website that had a product for diabetics that was all-natural and it contained Cayenne as just one of its' ingredients. Taurine is a supplement that I read about on Pam Ptyza's PCOS page (see link on the left over there) it's one of the main ingredients in Sugar-Free Red Bull.
Could it be that there are natural and organic remedies in our kitchens that can help regulate blood sugar and reduce if not completely eliminate insulin resistence?
I've already seen where vitamins and progesterone cream have begun to regulate my cycles and reduce other symptoms of PCOS as well.
Lately, I've been poking around the Net more in search of more information on current PCOS treatments. It's both disheartening and sort of refreshing to see that while more and more sources are siting Insulin Resistence as the root cause of PCOS most of the treatments that are recommended are a lot of the things I am already doing. (vitamins, diet changes, exercise, natural supplements)
Sure, there is always glucophage or metaformin (diabetic medications that have been used with success with PCOS patients) but I'm not fond of putting more chemicals into my body than I already am. Still, it's certainly an advancement compared to the old stand-by of "got PCOS? Don't want to get pregnant? Great... here are some birth control pills, now go away."
And, birth control pills are only a band-aid. Without significant diet and lifestyle changes the PCOS symptoms can return... only WORSE.
So, on one hand I'm pleased that I know the right things to do and can do them without killing myself. On the otherhand, I'm disappointed that there isn't some magic pill to make it all go away.
Don't get me wrong... I miss sugar, I miss bread and I'm not giving up caffeine or the occasional adult beverage.
Moderation... find a happy medium and just keep trying, I guess.
Sunday, October 30, 2005
PCOS and Weight Loss/Gain
Recently had a comment from amka, who has a very interesting blog! She asked if PCOS was affecting my weight loss.
Absolutely. Not only is it the cause for my weight gain, it definitely poses a challenge where weight loss is concerned. The main sticking point, if you will, is that traditional dieting with PCOS does not work, at least for me. I should preface this by saying that I am NOT a Doctor, Nutritionist, or anything in the medical field. I can really only speak from my own personal experience and that is what this blog is really about.
For years I wondered why I could ONLY lose weight if I went on a low-carb diet. Now I know... I have insulin restistence - counting calories alone will not do it for me. Believe, I starved myself on the "Points" system for months with NO result whatsoever. I started on a Low Carb diet and the weight just melted off, it was almost like magic.
Staying away from sugar for so long now let's me see how terrible it makes me feel when I do have it. I feel like I have ingested some form of poison if I eat very much. I feel sluggish and sick. No wonder I spent so long being uncomfortable and miserable. Still... don't think I don't crave sugar... I do... but I find other types of substitutes or I indulge just a little not enough to make me sick.
I recently read an article online that I found extremely interesting. It would almost appear that the medical community is beginning to catch up on this serious health problem we call PCOS. I won't get into the fact that the name itself is WRONG (why are we labeling a disease by one of its' symptoms? "Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome").
Up until quite recently most doctors treated PCOS based on whether or not the patient wanted to get pregnant. It's mainly seen as an infertility problem. Which is an absolute tragedy given that PCOS regardless of fertility or desire to achieve pregnancy, puts patients at SERIOUS risk for endometrial cancer, uterine cancer, fibroid tumors, endometriosis, type II Diabetes, and most importantly Cardiovascular disease... not to mention that chronic insulin spikes cause serious damage to other organs.
Gee, I wonder if there might be a connection to heart disease being the number 1 killer of women and PCOS? Am I the ONLY one seeing a possible connection here?
The article above points out that there are now studies going on to evaluate the use of insulin controlling medications and their effects on patients with PCOS.
I have not gone that far yet. I'm a firm believer that I can control this with diet (low carb, no sugar), exercise, and vitamins. Although, I am on Lexapro for Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Depression - which is another offshoot problem of PCOS.
I recently read some very interesting information on vinegar and its' effect on blood sugar. I'll post about that tomorrow!
Absolutely. Not only is it the cause for my weight gain, it definitely poses a challenge where weight loss is concerned. The main sticking point, if you will, is that traditional dieting with PCOS does not work, at least for me. I should preface this by saying that I am NOT a Doctor, Nutritionist, or anything in the medical field. I can really only speak from my own personal experience and that is what this blog is really about.
For years I wondered why I could ONLY lose weight if I went on a low-carb diet. Now I know... I have insulin restistence - counting calories alone will not do it for me. Believe, I starved myself on the "Points" system for months with NO result whatsoever. I started on a Low Carb diet and the weight just melted off, it was almost like magic.
Staying away from sugar for so long now let's me see how terrible it makes me feel when I do have it. I feel like I have ingested some form of poison if I eat very much. I feel sluggish and sick. No wonder I spent so long being uncomfortable and miserable. Still... don't think I don't crave sugar... I do... but I find other types of substitutes or I indulge just a little not enough to make me sick.
I recently read an article online that I found extremely interesting. It would almost appear that the medical community is beginning to catch up on this serious health problem we call PCOS. I won't get into the fact that the name itself is WRONG (why are we labeling a disease by one of its' symptoms? "Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome").
"NEWER TREATMENTS
Rather than focusing on relieving specific symptoms, the newer treatments aim at what may be the root cause of PCOS, ie insulin resistance. Many of these new therapies are designed to lower insulin levels and, thus, reduce production of testosterone.Investigational Therapies
New evidence suggests that using medications which lower insulin levels in the blood may be effective in restoring menstruation and reducing some of the health risks associated with PCOS. Lowering insulin levels also helps to reduce the production of testosterone, thus diminishing many of the symptoms associated with excess testosterone: hair growth on body, alopecia (hair loss), acne, obesity and cardiovascular risk."(taken from link above)
Up until quite recently most doctors treated PCOS based on whether or not the patient wanted to get pregnant. It's mainly seen as an infertility problem. Which is an absolute tragedy given that PCOS regardless of fertility or desire to achieve pregnancy, puts patients at SERIOUS risk for endometrial cancer, uterine cancer, fibroid tumors, endometriosis, type II Diabetes, and most importantly Cardiovascular disease... not to mention that chronic insulin spikes cause serious damage to other organs.
Gee, I wonder if there might be a connection to heart disease being the number 1 killer of women and PCOS? Am I the ONLY one seeing a possible connection here?
The article above points out that there are now studies going on to evaluate the use of insulin controlling medications and their effects on patients with PCOS.
Metformin (Glucophage) to regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivityMany of the women I have read about on different PCOS message boards are on this medication already. Many had to fight their doctors or change doctors just to get a prescription for it.
I have not gone that far yet. I'm a firm believer that I can control this with diet (low carb, no sugar), exercise, and vitamins. Although, I am on Lexapro for Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Depression - which is another offshoot problem of PCOS.
I recently read some very interesting information on vinegar and its' effect on blood sugar. I'll post about that tomorrow!
Post Lapse, W2W and Diet Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper
It's been quite a while since I posted here. I haven't had anything new to report... which is to say that I haven't lost more weight. ;o)
I didn't realize that people were actually reading this blog. The last few comments I've received have been of the "spam" nature, so I apologize, sincerely to those of you who have stopped by and were met with old posts. Many thanks to Joyce, who brought this to my attention by posting a comment/question on my other blog.
Joyce asked if I was still using the W2W (Women to Women) system. I am still using it and wouldn't give it up for anything. I have noticed a definite improvement in my energy level and the way I feel in general. I hate getting too graphic (even if my blog title implies otherwise) - but within 3 weeks my cycle returned and followed on time the month after that as well.
I've been a little less than aggressive in dieting recently. Although, I have managed to maintain the weight loss and am still happily sitting at 157. I have not been as diligent in persuing the time to workout regularly. Life gets in the way and if I'm not careful the holiday menus will as well. ;o)
In other news, while I have sworn off sodas with 99% success - I have to admit to developing a strong liking for Diet Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper. I think it's the very first diet soda I've ever had that I didn't have to tolerate the icky "diet" aftertaste. It's actually really good!
I didn't realize that people were actually reading this blog. The last few comments I've received have been of the "spam" nature, so I apologize, sincerely to those of you who have stopped by and were met with old posts. Many thanks to Joyce, who brought this to my attention by posting a comment/question on my other blog.
Joyce asked if I was still using the W2W (Women to Women) system. I am still using it and wouldn't give it up for anything. I have noticed a definite improvement in my energy level and the way I feel in general. I hate getting too graphic (even if my blog title implies otherwise) - but within 3 weeks my cycle returned and followed on time the month after that as well.
I've been a little less than aggressive in dieting recently. Although, I have managed to maintain the weight loss and am still happily sitting at 157. I have not been as diligent in persuing the time to workout regularly. Life gets in the way and if I'm not careful the holiday menus will as well. ;o)
In other news, while I have sworn off sodas with 99% success - I have to admit to developing a strong liking for Diet Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper. I think it's the very first diet soda I've ever had that I didn't have to tolerate the icky "diet" aftertaste. It's actually really good!
Thursday, October 13, 2005
Back On Track - Finally!
Two more pounds down and that much closer to my goal of 140! This has not been easy... but it hasn't been quite as hard as I once imagined. It's funny how when you get going and start creating new habits it just isn't the giant undertaking that was once too overwhelming to consider attempting.
I'm far more than half way to my goal. Now, I just hope I can get the rest of this off by Thanksgiving. I know I have major temptations coming up in November and December. I'll be making fudge, toffee, and cream cheese mints... just to name a few treats. I won't allow myself to be sunk... but I don't plan on depriving myself during my favorite time of year either.
I know it will be impossible for me to over indulge - I can't handle too much sugar without getting REALLY sick ... which is a great thing, actually.
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
No Such Thing As A Sleepy Dieter...
I admit to a momentary lapse of sanity when I chose to go off caffeine cold turkey. By 9pm I had a ear-bleeding headache and I don't have the attention span to even attempt to ride something like that out. It's just not going to happen.
I figure I've dropped about 26 pounds WITH caffeine - I can manage another 20... I just have to buckle down and get to business. No big deal.
That being said, I'm happily caffeinated today... coffee and tea.
I'm also off the freaking Shwarzbein principal diet. I'm sure it's a great diet... and perhaps I'll use it as a maintenance program when I've lost the last 20 - until then... I'm sticking to low-carb because I know it works.
Well, it works when I stick to it anyway... which as of today - I am 100% on board.
Breakfast - steak and eggs
Lunch - leftover steak, string cheese, and a salad.
I figure I've dropped about 26 pounds WITH caffeine - I can manage another 20... I just have to buckle down and get to business. No big deal.
That being said, I'm happily caffeinated today... coffee and tea.
I'm also off the freaking Shwarzbein principal diet. I'm sure it's a great diet... and perhaps I'll use it as a maintenance program when I've lost the last 20 - until then... I'm sticking to low-carb because I know it works.
Well, it works when I stick to it anyway... which as of today - I am 100% on board.
Breakfast - steak and eggs
Lunch - leftover steak, string cheese, and a salad.
Monday, October 03, 2005
Mourning The Loss Of A Dear Friend...
*sigh*
Caffeine... my friend, my supporter, my comfort...
Today, I give you up...
But, I will keep in close touch with your friend, decaf, while not as flavorful or inspiring as you... I hope it will make the hole that you will undoubtedly leave, just a bit smaller.
That's right, I'm turning over a new leaf (no autumn pun intended here). I've decided to quit caffeine cold-turkey. And, today marks my first day on the Shwarzbein principal. I've decided to go gung-ho and eliminate these last 20 pounds.
So, pardon the sleepy posts that will undoubtedly follow. I have my concerns over the lack of stimulants in my system... will I be able to hold a conversation? Drive? Remember to pick up the kids? Can I live without my beloved iced tea? What exactly will I order when I take the kids through Sonic?
So many questions... and the answers will come in time, I'm sure.
Until then, I bid a fair adieu to my beloved caffeine. We'll be together again... someday.
Caffeine... my friend, my supporter, my comfort...
Today, I give you up...
But, I will keep in close touch with your friend, decaf, while not as flavorful or inspiring as you... I hope it will make the hole that you will undoubtedly leave, just a bit smaller.
That's right, I'm turning over a new leaf (no autumn pun intended here). I've decided to quit caffeine cold-turkey. And, today marks my first day on the Shwarzbein principal. I've decided to go gung-ho and eliminate these last 20 pounds.
So, pardon the sleepy posts that will undoubtedly follow. I have my concerns over the lack of stimulants in my system... will I be able to hold a conversation? Drive? Remember to pick up the kids? Can I live without my beloved iced tea? What exactly will I order when I take the kids through Sonic?
So many questions... and the answers will come in time, I'm sure.
Until then, I bid a fair adieu to my beloved caffeine. We'll be together again... someday.
Thursday, September 29, 2005
A Great Pair Of Cords...
I have to apologize for the lack of consistent posting lately. The only excuse I can possibly give is that sometimes, "life gets in the way..."
Anyway, I spent last weekend at Pismo Beach, we rented a house for my husbands birthday. We had so much fun and ate a lot of really great food. I completely skipped the carb counting and just relaxed and had a good time.
I know, I'm not quite as dedicated as I was a few months ago. Although, I'm not gaining anything back, thank goodness. I think mentally I've just created a barrier that basically says, "I'm only willing to go so far" and certainly not in the direction of largers numbers on the bathroom scale.
My weight fluctuates 2-3 pounds, fairly typical.
This past weekend I fit into a size 10 at the Bass Outlet. A cute pair of chocolate cords, they were 30% off - but I'd have bought them at full price. I never thought I'd slip into a size 10, easily, ever again. I'm thrilled!
On top of that... I'm finally able to buy clothes at American Eagle... one of my favorite stores.
I'm not 100% happy with where I am now... I've got another 20 pounds to lose, at least. But, I'm much happier than where I was 6 months ago. The biggest issue is to maintain the weight and not go back the other direction... I think I can manage that. I've really established a lot of good habits and I've eliminated the majority of sugar and carbs in my diet.
Although, I am still considering going on the Shwarzbein Principal diet. It's a little bit more lenient than straight low-carb. I'm thinking about doing it throughout October. I've still got a couple of days to decide. If I do start it, I'll start on Saturday the first. A fresh start, clean slate on the first day of the month. That's probably just what I need.
Anyway, I spent last weekend at Pismo Beach, we rented a house for my husbands birthday. We had so much fun and ate a lot of really great food. I completely skipped the carb counting and just relaxed and had a good time.
I know, I'm not quite as dedicated as I was a few months ago. Although, I'm not gaining anything back, thank goodness. I think mentally I've just created a barrier that basically says, "I'm only willing to go so far" and certainly not in the direction of largers numbers on the bathroom scale.
My weight fluctuates 2-3 pounds, fairly typical.
This past weekend I fit into a size 10 at the Bass Outlet. A cute pair of chocolate cords, they were 30% off - but I'd have bought them at full price. I never thought I'd slip into a size 10, easily, ever again. I'm thrilled!
On top of that... I'm finally able to buy clothes at American Eagle... one of my favorite stores.
I'm not 100% happy with where I am now... I've got another 20 pounds to lose, at least. But, I'm much happier than where I was 6 months ago. The biggest issue is to maintain the weight and not go back the other direction... I think I can manage that. I've really established a lot of good habits and I've eliminated the majority of sugar and carbs in my diet.
Although, I am still considering going on the Shwarzbein Principal diet. It's a little bit more lenient than straight low-carb. I'm thinking about doing it throughout October. I've still got a couple of days to decide. If I do start it, I'll start on Saturday the first. A fresh start, clean slate on the first day of the month. That's probably just what I need.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)