I haven't been keeping up with logging every meal into Fitclick - I've just been too busy. But I used Fitclick before enough to know what my calorie intake is or there-about for the day. So if I've used it before and lost weight, why do I keep gaining weight? Well, I think it's because I set a goal to eat healthy but didn't change my lifestyle. So I made a commitment January 1st to do just that. When my family or friends ask if I want to go eat fast food or at the buffet, I said "No I don't eat unhealthy food anymore". I also threw out all high fat (>33%) and high calorie foods from my refrigerator and pantry. I then bought all low calorie and, low fat (not no fat) foods. I also cut out all high calorie sauces, gravies, and drinks. I cut back considerably on soda and drank black tea instead. Instead of peanuts for snacks, I ate baby carrots, celery, salad (low cal dressing), a few chips with salsa, and 90 calorie fiber bars/cookies with skim milk. I then counted calories making sure I had a protein, carb, and vegtable with every meal except breakfast. For breakfast, it was coffee, lite creamer, and a cereal or good carb. I offset the no protein with a protein shake mid-morning after or prior to a workout. Oh, I also did 30 minutes of pure cardio (exercise bike) paying attention to keeping my heartrate at recomended levels by my doctor. I did that by adjusting my effort on the bike to meet my heart rate goal and didn't just pedal for fun or until time was up while listening to music or watching TV. I started at 240 lbs and ended up at 228 lbs by January 26th and maintained that for a week until today where I am now 227 lbs this morning. Last week I rewarded myself with a couple good meals for my progress. I rewarded myself without trying to lose more because I met my goal and a break is, I think, important to maintain constant weight loss throughout the year. I also did this to "Tempt Myself Thin" in which I get a reward 'only' if I meet my goal for the week or month. This gives me something to look forward to should I meet my goal and a negative reward if I don't because I won't get that reward. When I lose enough weight, I'll reward myself with new clothes that fit, a good meal here and there, etc... Reward yourself and see where you can go with your goals. Good luck to all during February!
