Peeling Off the Pounds
Fronteragirl had previously lost 30lbs by simply changing her eating habits and adding exercise. In order to simplify counting calories she joined Calorie Count and lost an additional 26lbs. Read on for more of her weight loss tips, all taken from her own experiences.
She contacted us through our Share Your Story feature, and provided the following answers to our questionnaire.
1. What prompted you to begin this weight loss journey? Did you have an "Aha!" moment?
I think for me it was just that I was entering the year when I would turn 50, and knowing I struggled with my weight all the first half of my life, I really wanted to be free of weight worries during the second half of my life.
2. What other "diets" (programs, products, plans, or services) had you tried in the past?
In the past I tried many different approaches, from very extreme diets and exercise to just eating healthy. Nothing previously was completely successful.
3. Please describe how you reached your weight loss goal. What changes did you make to your usual diet, activity, lifestyle, and attitude? Did you implement any other strategies besides Calorie Count? What was the most important change?
Prior to Calorie Count, I had switched to healthy eating habits and lost approximately 30 lbs, but I was still overweight. I knew that I had to somehow monitor what I was eating, but didn't want to lug around a calorie-counting book with me everywhere I went. So I googled "Calorie Counting". The first site I came upon was caloriecount.com. The site was so easy to use, in just a matter of minutes I was signed up and learning things. It was so easy to enter and tag my food intake. I loved the Analysis page, that really helped me make even better food choices than I had been making. How much I was eating was really the key to my weight loss. Measuring and weighing my food intake helped me to learn correct portion sizes. I also upped my activity level. I don't do anything extreme or crazy, but I love Zumba, bike riding, swimming and walking. I also use the elliptical machine at hotels when I travel. I removed all trigger foods from my house. When hungry between meals, I have a piece of sugarless gum. As my stomach shrunk, hunger really became a non-issue. After about 3 months I did not need to measure my food any longer. For me, the most important change was just being able to easily count my calories.
4. Please describe how Calorie Count was instrumental to your weight loss.
Calorie Count was instrumental in many ways. Counting calories easily, and being able to tag my food or even create my own entries was very important. The analysis tab kept me on track nutritionally and helped educate me about food nutrition, something that is really missing in the American education system. The forums and friend features helped keep me motivated, and I found the information I used to be very accurate.
5. What difficulties did you experience losing weight?
This was actually the easiest time I have ever had losing weight, and I've lost weight plenty of times! I did hit a few plateaus, but after consulting the caloriecount site I found that the suggestion of bumping up your calorie intake a bit and also your activity level actually worked! Amazing!
6. How long did it take you to see results? When did you realize that you were a success?
If you follow the suggestions and calorie intake prescribed by Calorie Count, the pounds just peel off. The first week I lost 4 lbs. I was delighted. Just as the site predicted, I regularly lost 1 lb per week, consistently. Sometimes I hit plateaus, but I worked through those with the advice from the site and they never lasted more than a few weeks.
7. How do you prevent relapse?
I have been eating healthy for so long now, if I eat too much or the wrong types of food, I feel sick. This is enough incentive for me to stick to my good habits. I do not buy any trigger foods whatsoever. If anyone in my family wants ice cream or other goodies, they can go buy it themselves. When I eat out with my husband, we buy one meal and split it. American restaurant meals are twice the size a person needs. You will find that over time, you will crave the healthier foods and the high-fat, super sweet stuff will make you ill. When in doubt, watch the documentary "Supersize Me" available on the internet, that always spurs me on! If you are not already a foodie, learn to cook and do not buy any processed foods anymore. I shop in the produce section, I buy some meat, and a few things that come in cans. The only thing I buy in a box is cereal, and I even make my own granola. Real food tastes so much better than processed food!
8. How has your life changed now that you've lost weight?
I am such a happier person! I feel terrific and have much more energy. I have a much more positive attitude about life and I have more self-confidence. Because of these changes, people treat me differently. It's all been very positive and I wouldn't trade it for the world.
9. How long have you maintained your current weight?
The weight is still coming off, very slowly which is fine with me. The site calculated my goal weight at 17 lbs below where I am now. Not sure I will go that low, I'm thinking about 10 more lbs max. I am very happy right now and the rest is just bonus!
10. What five tips do you have for other dieters?
- Don't try to kill yourself initially doing crazy amounts of exercise, as that level is difficult to maintain. Find activities you like and do them several times a week. As the weight comes off, you naturally will want to do more and will be able to do more.
- Find some healthy treats that you use to reward yourself. For me, I love dry red wine. Also, a really delicious treat is to mix dark chocolate cocoa powder with vanilla yogurt. You can make it as chocolaty as you like and it is so delicious, with none of the extra fat of a chocolate bar. My husband loves it also!
- Remove any trigger foods from your house. If it's there, you'll eat it. This
means your family will eat healthier as well. - Stay focused on your successes. You will have setbacks, you'll hit plateaus, consult the site and just stick with it!
- Choose a few activities that you really enjoy, mix up your exercise doing these activities and others. Don't go for the kill-yourself level of activity, keep it manageable and enjoyable and soon it becomes a savored part of your life!
If you would like us to feature your success story, you can submit it here. The most insightful stories will be featured on this blog and in the weekly "Success Stories" newsletter.
Comments
Thanks, hey this one really helps me. I'm 47 and have been watching the pounds creep up so that I'm about 30 pounds heavier than I was in high school. And I thought I was overweight then! I'm inspired by your results to keep focused. Thanks for sharing your story.
Thanks for sharing.. it's motivating :) I'm 48 and have 2 small age children and taking care of myself is lower on the list of priorities. Pluls some back problems which make me hesitate to exercise.
I have 25 lb to lose and found you article helpful :)
thanks
You GO Girl!! Fantastic! I know you're proud of yourself, and you darn sure should be. How wonderful...and I KNOW you feel 100% better. Thanks for the inspiration. Get that bathing suit on, head for the beach, and SHOW OFF! You've earned the right!!! GREAT.
Thanks for sharing...I went to a nutritionist who set up basic daily calorie levels for me and she recommended I track everything on this site. This site has really helped me a lot to keep track...I've lost 6 ilbs in less than a month so far. Also to lunamare, I have severe lower back problems also but I recommend water aerobics and a low gliding cross trainer...it will help you burn calories without hurting your back.
Awesome. Your tips are great (especially the cocoa suggestion. I haven't had chocolate in 2 months and am looking forward to trying this). I'm 48 and consider Calorie Count a valuable resource that has taught me what an appropriate portion size is, as well as guided me through the plateau spots by telling me what to expect. You look great now. Good luck on the last 10.
You've really inspired me. I feel like I've been the same way. I'm 28 and I feel like all of my life I've been unhappy with my weight (even though there is a time I'd love to go back to now that I realize I wasn't fat then). I need to find the exercise that suits me and stick with it. Congrats to you and I hope you continue to do well! :)
Thanks for sharing your story. I have about 15 pounds left to lose and have been slipping (not watching what I eat as closely as I have been) the last few days. The plateaus really do a number on my brain! In any case your story has helped to get me back on track.
Congratulations on your success, you look fantastic!
Thanks for the tip sonjaspell, i'll look into it :) But what is low gliding cross trainer ? Sorry for not knowing :( But i don't live in the states so not really up to date on "new things".. Thanks !
You look great, and I'm happy that you feel great! Also, I NEVER would have guessed you to be 50...or even 40!!! Congrats, and thanks for the tips!
CONGRATULATIONS!
I've been fighting a plateau for a month now...But, i've kept reducing my calories, and increasing my workouts...Maybe, i'll try increasing a hundred calories and see how that works. THanks for the awesome advice!!!!!
I pray for your continued success!
Congratulations!!! your story is great and very inspiring i wish i could do that everytime i try to start losing weight it is so hard i live with my mom and my son and my husband which it makes it hard for me becus they at times buy junk food and my husband likes is snacks in the afternoons sometimes like at six or seven and he wants me to always join him i wish i didnt at times, always like sandwiches and coffee or sweet desserts.. things that i shouldnt eat.. plus i do the cooking at times my mom does it at times too .. I will be hitting 50 this year i gain alot of weight i am weighing around 200 pounds and i feel so depress at times,because of that, i have very little self esteem very weak and certain things that i have to eat, really need help!! cant do it on my own..trying to find someone to help me and teach me how to eat correctly that way i wont have that problem. you know i work 8 hours a day then have to come home and cook for them and then have to cook for myself something makes it hard at times..
Congrats! It's an inspiring life story. I managed to cut down on processed food as well, and I think it's a great way of eating. Less junk food, more real food. 
I love that you are so realistic, and that is really encouraging. I am motivated by your success. Congratulations and thank you for posting.....:)
way to go! Love your tip "Don't try to kill yourself initially doing crazy amounts of exercise, as that level is difficult to maintain. Find activities you like and do them several times a week. As the weight comes off, you naturally will want to do more and will be able to do more." That was definitely a big part of helping me lose 130 pounds! Did not want to burn out and stop!
Congratulations!
Chris
(link to my blog in my profile about my weight loss)
You sound sorted and look great. Enjoy the next 50 years!!! And many thanks for the inspiration.
This is all excellent advice!! Congrats on your journey!!! I totally agree that the documentary "Supersize Me" helps! I watched it recently and it kicked my healthy lifestyle into high gear! Thanks for sharing your story with us!!!
Congratulations! You look terrific and it sounds like you feel just as wonderful. I'm finding that eating whole foods, nothing processed, might just be the key for me. I've been hearing so much about the damage and disease caused by preservatives and sugar, so I'm trying to cut it all out. You've found something that works for you and that is so great. I think caloriecount is wonderful. I, too, like the fact that it gives an analysis of what you eat so you know if you're on track nutritionally.
Thanks for your story. I found this site 2 weeks ago. I started "Clean Eating" about 4 months ago and keeping a food journal for 2 months. So far I have lost 24 pounds. Not only have I switched the journaling from a book to this site, but I have also started "Couch to 5K" training. I am looking forward to tracking my progress.
That's awesome! You are so right about so many things.. I have yet to meet my goal.. I had another baby 2 years ago and can't seem to lose the extra 15-20 lbs. Part of it is lack of motivation, and just too tired. But before that, I was working out at least 3 times a week, no sugars, soda, or junk food. I would portion what I ate and I was able to maintain my weight..
But like I said after the last C section... it takes time heal.. then we go through the post partum depression and well.. it took toll on me. Anyway.. I guess I need to stop saying, "I'll do it tomorrow or next week"... and get started now.
Thank you for sharing!! You look great!
Note: Yes the website does help keep in perspective what I am eating.
I'm inspired because I'm 65 and fighting the 30 pound reduction at an older age, even though I play tennis 4 times per week and workout. It's great to hear from someone who is 50. Now I will be more diligent about logging my calories, watching portion size, and having no trigger foods in the house. I was getting defeated and feeling like weight lost pat 50 wasn't going to happen. Renewed commitment. Thanks.
I like the chocolate/yogurt tip!! I make my own yogurt using raw milk and nothing more and the addition of chocolate makes it taste like a dessert. I am 58 and like several of the comments have struggled with an additional 30 odd pounds after I hit 50. I had always been very active and maintained a very slim weight, but with a house full of grandkids that LOVE my cooking (and I love to eat!!) the pounds have slowly crept up. I am inspired by the comments to continue trying to get those pounds off and regain some of the energy I have lost because of it.
Congrats on ur success!!..Looking at ur before and after snaps..its reallyyyy motivating. sure an inspiration to read such stories and keep ourselves motivated!!
Keep going and good luck on future ventures!! :))
Great story and very inspirational for the more mature crowd. I will be 57 this month and I started my journey in August. I'm down 46 pounds and have another 18 to go. I love CC and the personal stories. It helps me manage my goals and overcome my slumps. Keep going! You will get to yourgoal before you know it. Good luck :-)
I hope that I can look half as good as you at 50! Great job and thanks for the inspiration!
Congratulations on your success! What an incredible journey to share. Very inspiring!
Hi Lunamare...a low gliding cross trainer is one that glides front to back or vice versa. It doesn't have any height graduation with it like a traditional stepper so it won't jolt your back. Most gyms have both alternatives, you just need to ask them about the cross trainers and tell them about your back...usually they will guide you correctly. I've had 2 back surgeries and this machine doesn't bother me at all...your thighs might hurt afterward! Get that Burn!
Congratulations! You look fantastic. Very motivating to hear about a success story like yours. I'm going to try the cocoa powder/yogurt too!
Original Post by: lunamareThanks for sharing.. it's motivating :) I'm 48 and have 2 small age children and taking care of myself is lower on the list of priorities. Pluls some back problems which make me hesitate to exercise.
I have 25 lb to lose and found you article helpful :)
thanks
Gotta take care of yourself, like on a plane when the flight attendant tells you to put on your own airmask before assisting someone else! Lol, your kids will enjoy you more when you are healthy and happy, so take some time for yourself. It is stressful having young kids, I know. Hugs and hang in there...
Thanks to all for your kind and encouraging comments, I've really enjoyed them! Thanks also to those of you who shared your stories, you continue to be an inspiration! Best wishes to all on your personal journeys!!
Thank you for posting a person who is in the majority of the age bracket of the population. I have a tough time with fitness magazines who put 20 somethings on the cover. I did not have an issue with weight and or loosing it until my 40's. When I was younger my body responded to whatever exercise/diet I did. Now that I am in my 40's soon to be 50, my metabolism does not respond the same. Congratulations to Fronteragirl!
I am having trouble balancing out my meals. I am trying to keep to the 1200 a day by doing little calorie count in the morning 150, then as the day go on more at lunch and dinner with the largest count. But I'm starving. I don't think the lean morning breakfast is doing me any good. I'm too anxious by coffee break/snack and lunch, then want to add on, instead of waiting to have it for dinner. I think I've sabotaged myself.
fllo - perhaps you're not eating enough calories for your body if you are hungry all the time, or perhaps you're not eating enough from the right food groups? Try and switch your eating up a little - maybe include some healthy snacks mid morning and between lunch and dinner. It's hard to spread the calories out - I Know! Good luck.
OMG! There have been so many wonderful, inspiring stories on this site, but this one is my favorite. I tagged it to my favorites! I like all the advice. I feel like you addressed some of my faults and gave some clear-cut advice on getting through it successfully. I'm re-inspired! Thanks!
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Congratulations on your success!