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Off Topic Forums => Off Topic Forum => Topic started by: red_Dragon888 on June 09, 2010, 08:22:21 am

Title: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 09, 2010, 08:22:21 am
Of course, I'm asking for those who feel that they maybe 20 lbs or more overweight and are now on a good diet plan that is working.  I have given up sugar and starch, yeah it's Atkins Diet, and lost in 30 days 15 lbs.  Do anyone else have a plan that is working or have any recommendations or criticisms on any diet plan?

Thanks
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on June 09, 2010, 10:04:58 am
Of course, I'm asking for those who feel that they maybe 20 lbs or more overweight and are now on a good diet plan that is working.  I have given up sugar and starch, yeah it's Atkins Diet, and lost in 30 days 15 lbs.  Do anyone else have a plan that is working or have any recommendations or criticisms on any diet plan?

Thanks

I've been dieting and exercising pretty heavily and in the last week have lost about 3 pounds.  I'm not a big fan of the fad type diets because it's extremely difficult to live like that forever.  Are you exercising at all?

I'm not eating fast food/fried foods and I'm only drinking water which drops all the calories I normally get from Coca Cola and Orange Juice.  In addition I've started jogging at least 2-4 miles every day and working out in generall all in preparation for heading back to the gym.  I eat a very light breakfast and lunch and a slightly less restrictive dinner for a total of about 1500 calories per day I'm burning 300-500 via exercise and I'm seeing results pretty quickly at the moment.  I also allow myself one completely unrestricted meal on sundays.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: skeebo1969 on June 09, 2010, 03:38:42 pm



  Burger King has chicken fries now and they are so yummy.  I likes them with da zesty sauce and a side order of onion rings with one of those huge fountain sodas!

  Have a nice day!
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Grasshopper on June 09, 2010, 04:09:36 pm
I can't stomach fried foods and don't care for fast food. Lately my nightly diet is a pint of sweetend rice pudding or a pint of chocolate Ben&Jerry's....provided I smoke a light joint. If I didn't indulge I would be in serious trouble with a BMI of 19.7  (height 1.77m & 62kg)
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 09, 2010, 04:47:20 pm
I've been dieting and exercising pretty heavily and in the last week have lost about 3 pounds.  I'm not a big fan of the fad type diets because it's extremely difficult to live like that forever.  Are you exercising at all?

I'm not eating fast food/fried foods and I'm only drinking water which drops all the calories I normally get from Coca Cola and Orange Juice.  In addition I've started jogging at least 2-4 miles every day and working out in genera ll all in preparation for heading back to the gym.  I eat a very light breakfast and lunch and a slightly less restrictive dinner for a total of about 1500 calories per day I'm burning 300-500 via exercise and I'm seeing results pretty quickly at the moment.  I also allow myself one completely unrestricted meal on sundays.
Well I don't think that Atkins is a fad diet, but it is hard to maintain if you are addicted to sugar and starch which I am.  The Atkins Diet worked for me 5 years ago but I went back to cakes, pies, breads, fries, and the rest and gain 70lbs back.  I had gotten off the diet because someone told me I had looked like I was dying and I had feared that it was true, so to console myself, I went back to sugar and breads, etc.  Now I believe that person was  jealous of my weight loss and mess with my mind. Believe you me, I hate looking at the mirror at myself now.  :( Now I am dedicated to stay off that stuff and get back into my slim form. 

As to your question of exercise, I wish I could run but I have an athletic injury which makes me use a cane for walking.  This summer or a couple of months I will go back to the gym and workout with weights and gain some muscle.  Anyway, if all goes well I will meet my goal by end of August.  Wish me luck...

Dragon
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 09, 2010, 04:55:34 pm
Maybe saying that I'm addicted to sugars and starches is a strong statement, but it may be better to state that my type of metabolism turns high carbohydrates into fat very easily and if I wish to get slimmer I must watch what I eat and avoid the foods that for some is no problem but for me is a problem.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on June 09, 2010, 10:16:27 pm
If you want to in a private thread I'll disclose height, weight and arm/waist measurements and we can update biweekly in order to bolster and support one another :D
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: next2u on June 10, 2010, 12:04:16 am
i so want in on this. my girlfriends, fags and i have been obsessing over this for the last few weeks. then i had this skinny fabulous fag come and stay with me for a week.

i'm at my ideal weight but not at the right proportions. i'm like 5'9 and weigh 174. i've started watching what i eat and have taken up a crackhead diet (and i don't recommend it).

during summer my appetite usually skyrockets and it fucking sucks. i don't believe in starvation so i keep plenty of liquids around and a lot of light snacks. im a grazer and im trying to stay under 3000 calories a day. it's easy to eat upwards of 3,000 calories and i'm trying to stick between 2000-2500 depending upon my activities.

so, because of exhaustion and frustration and totally bad dieting habits this is what i do. take vitamins. drink a lot of water. take energy supplements (i like low carb monster - energy booster and appetite suppressant). i am also trying to nix my newly formed caffeine habit.

in addition to not eating any sweets or drinking any other flavored beverages i'm forcing myself to do moderate exercises in the house. got an iron man gym ($30) and do pull ups & dips multiple times a week. i do push ups and situps (absolute torture). eventually i'll make it back to the gym. until then, a lil something something around the house has increased my energy levels.

as for the monsters i still eat an hour or 2 after consumption (as with any energy product) to eliminate my crash. i've also stopped eating beyond saturation and keeping water around me constantly has helped stave off hunger for longer periods. i've also been jogging more and playing more. 

im sure this doesnt help. i would love to be a skinny concave bitch someday.

best,
d
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: GSOgymrat on June 10, 2010, 07:53:38 pm
As I discovered tonight, if you want to stay on a diet don't go to Golden Corral.

(burp)
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on June 10, 2010, 07:57:38 pm
As I discovered tonight, if you want to stay on a diet don't go to Golden Corral.

(burp)


Today was my day off and I had fast food for the first time in 2 weeks.  Next time I take a day off from diet and exercise I won't be eating fast food.  I have one hell of a headache and I'm a little nauseous.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Grinch on June 10, 2010, 09:40:42 pm
Weight loss really does amount to a simple concept.  Calories in vs calories out.
I started tracking every bit of food and drink I consumed at the Livestrong.com site.  I found some amazing things such as 3 Dr. Peppers worth of calories every day from Salad dressing and various condiments.
I was eating a ton of carbs and surprisingly little protein.
 A few minor diet changes and a Cardio/weightlifting/Boxing program resulted in over 40lbs dropped with a good bit of muscle gain in 8 months.  I work out 4 days a week.  Fight one day a week and keep calories down.
I aim for 60% protein 20% each fat and carbs.
One cheat meal a week and Ice cream once a week after heavy work out day.
I haven't felt this good in 15 years.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on June 10, 2010, 09:43:14 pm
Weight loss really does amount to a simple concept.  Calories in vs calories out.
I started tracking every bit of food and drink I consumed at the Livestrong.com site.  I found some amazing things such as 3 Dr. Peppers worth of calories every day from Salad dressing and various condiments.
I was eating a ton of carbs and surprisingly little protein.
 A few minor diet changes and a Cardio/weightlifting/Boxing program resulted in over 40lbs dropped with a good bit of muscle gain in 8 months.  I work out 4 days a week.  Fight one day a week and keep calories down.
I aim for 60% protein 20% each fat and carbs.
One cheat meal a week and Ice cream once a week after heavy work out day.
I haven't felt this good in 15 years.

I tell people all the time the fastest way to cut the most calories out of your diet is to remove 3 things:  Soda(any non water drink as water has 0 calories), Cheese, and Mayo/Salad Dressing.  If you can eat more vegetables and proteins in addition to working out your muscle mass will expand dramatically, which in turn makes weight loss a lot easier.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 11, 2010, 04:42:04 am
I tell people all the time the fastest way to cut the most calories out of your diet is to remove 3 things:  Soda(any non water drink as water has 0 calories), Cheese, and Mayo/Salad Dressing.  If you can eat more vegetables and proteins in addition to working out your muscle mass will expand dramatically, which in turn makes weight loss a lot easier.
Now for full disclosure, I have read the book, "Dr. Atkins' Diet Revolution," an not to sound like a infomercial, I do believe that what the book says is valid.  One quote I like and keep on my desk is,” My tendency is to overweight is a sign of a chronic metabolic disorder.  My philology doesn't handle certain food as slim physiologies do.  I must not try to compare my eating habits to those of a person who has never had a weight problem.  Not now.  Not ever.  I have an illness, a lifelong illness.  (As if HIV isn't bad enough.  ;) ) I can't cure it, but I can control it."   It can't be overstated that I find Dr. Atkins' theory, which is nothing new for it was understood in the early nineteenth century, valid and probably most people actually follow it.  Actually, Hellraiser is following Atkins' advice and he probably does not know it.  Even Atkins' advised that after you have reached your goal weight, you can introduce foods to see how well your body can handle it.  As Hellraiser stated, he cheats on weekends, which means he found a way to introduce high carbohydrates into his diet without going outside his weight goal.  

It must be strongly stated that the Atkins’ Diet is not the “just eat meat” thing.  It is a way of eating without starving, to eat a lot without gaining fat or mass, to eat a lot and losing the fat or mass.  Moreover, to feel good about yourself and become slim while not blaming yourself, your parents, God, society, or whomever for your massive problem for to gain your weight goal is attainable without starving through counting calories.

His first book was good, but this one, which I go from the library, and kept it like a bible next to me is better.  It is more motivating and gentle in its’ persuasion to the reader to understand how to lose the fat through change of eating habits and not starve getting there.  
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 11, 2010, 04:55:39 am
Weight loss really does amount to a simple concept.  Calories in vs calories out.
I started tracking every bit of food and drink I consumed at the Livestrong.com site.  I found some amazing things such as 3 Dr. Peppers worth of calories every day from Salad dressing and various condiments.
I was eating a ton of carbs and surprisingly little protein.
 A few minor diet changes and a Cardio/weightlifting/Boxing program resulted in over 40lbs dropped with a good bit of muscle gain in 8 months.  I work out 4 days a week.  Fight one day a week and keep calories down.
I aim for 60% protein 20% each fat and carbs.
One cheat meal a week and Ice cream once a week after heavy work out day.
I haven't felt this good in 15 years.
That is all fine and good if your physiology can handle the “calorie theory” of losing weight.  My physiology cannot and would drive me crazy if I try it that way and believe me, I have been living that philosophy and the result was a weight gain of 70 lbs.  That right, 70 ugly pounds.  Sorry, I do not know the metric equivalent.  Nevertheless, you are on the right track in which, for instance, to avoid sodas and cakes.  However, for me I have to avoid them completely until my goal is reached and I can introduce them slowly to see how my metabolism handles the intake.   
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 11, 2010, 05:20:51 am
i so want in on this. my girlfriends, fags and i have been obsessing over this for the last few weeks. then i had this skinny fabulous fag come and stay with me for a week.

i'm at my ideal weight but not at the right proportions. i'm like 5'9 and weigh 174. i've started watching what i eat and have taken up a crackhead diet (and i don't recommend it).

during summer my appetite usually skyrockets and it fucking sucks. i don't believe in starvation so i keep plenty of liquids around and a lot of light snacks. im a grazer and im trying to stay under 3000 calories a day. it's easy to eat upwards of 3,000 calories and i'm trying to stick between 2000-2500 depending upon my activities.

so, because of exhaustion and frustration and totally bad dieting habits this is what i do. take vitamins. drink a lot of water. take energy supplements (i like low carb monster - energy booster and appetite suppressant). i am also trying to nix my newly formed caffeine habit.

in addition to not eating any sweets or drinking any other flavored beverages i'm forcing myself to do moderate exercises in the house. got an iron man gym ($30) and do pull ups & dips multiple times a week. i do push ups and situps (absolute torture). eventually i'll make it back to the gym. until then, a lil something something around the house has increased my energy levels.

as for the monsters i still eat an hour or 2 after consumption (as with any energy product) to eliminate my crash. i've also stopped eating beyond saturation and keeping water around me constantly has helped stave off hunger for longer periods. i've also been jogging more and playing more. 

im sure this doesnt help. i would love to be a skinny concave bitch someday.

best,
d
I hear you girlfriend.  I am in the same boat, or at least I was.  If I get you right, you are probably having tiny meals, working out at the gym and finding yourself starving for that chocolate bar, (no pun intended), or that bag of chips to ward off that killing feeling stomach pangs.  I say to you read Atkins book, “Dr. Atkins’ Diet Revolution,” and follow his advice.  You should keep a dairy of what you are eating, and I do mean the good and the bad, just to observe your habits.  I for instance, use to have a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for breakfast with a soda.  Then snack on cakes or candy bars and have a chicken or turkey hero for lunch, which is a big sandwich for lunch.  After that, I would again snack on chocolate cakes or ice cream.  For dinner, I would have chicken with rice or potato and corn or something and desert on a large portion of pies, cakes or cookies.  Still throughout the day, I would drink sugar drinks to keep the hunger pang away.  However, yesterday for breakfast I had one jumbo egg omelet mixes with vegetables of garlic, green pepper, onion, squash, and tofu.  I had skipped lunch, which is easy for I do not have those hunger desirers and for dinner, I had chicken thigh without skin, with salad.  The salad was a bowl of iceberg lettuce mixed with water crest, onion, garlic, tofu with olive oil and black pepper.  Note there are no sodas or sugary drinks even if it is a health drink.  Sugar is sugar no matter if it is a health drink or not.  Now it was hard to get to this point and it is day 25, well if you count the first week that I really started but cheated, it’s day 30.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 11, 2010, 05:31:57 am
I hear you girlfriend.  I am in the same boat, or at least I was.  If I get you right, you are probably having tiny meals, working out at the gym and finding yourself starving for that chocolate bar, (no pun intended), or that bag of chips to ward off that killing feeling stomach pangs.  I say to you read Atkins book, “Dr. Atkins’ Diet Revolution,” and follow his advice.  You should keep a dairy of what you are eating, and I do mean the good and the bad, just to observe your habits.  I for instance, use to have a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for breakfast with a soda.  Then snack on cakes or candy bars and have a chicken or turkey hero for lunch, which is a big sandwich for lunch.  After that, I would again snack on chocolate cakes or ice cream.  For dinner, I would have chicken with rice or potato and corn or something and desert on a large portion of pies, cakes or cookies.  Still throughout the day, I would drink sugar drinks to keep the hunger pang away.  However, yesterday for breakfast I had one jumbo egg omelet mixes with vegetables of garlic, green pepper, onion, squash, and tofu.  I had skipped lunch, which is easy for I do not have those hunger desirers and for dinner, I had chicken thigh without skin, with salad.  The salad was a bowl of iceberg lettuce mixed with water crest, onion, garlic, tofu with olive oil and black pepper.  Note there are no sodas or sugary drinks even if it is a health drink.  Sugar is sugar no matter if it is a health drink or not.  Now it was hard to get to this point and it is day 25, well if you count the first week that I really started but cheated, it’s day 30.
My weighting at the doctor’s office was 230 lbs minus the clothes, but today I weight 205 lbs.  I assume most of the weight loss is water but I am fitting into shirts and pants that once were impossible to get into.  Oh yes, my height is 5’9” waist is 42” and is dropping gradually. I guess my waist was 46” but I did not measure it then. My ideal weight is 160 lbs, 30” waist and not sees the excess skin I have now.  I may reach 180 lbs, which looks good on me, by end of August.  Moreover, I may reach 160 lbs by end of October.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: next2u on June 11, 2010, 05:36:46 am
I hear you girlfriend.  I am in the same boat, or at least I was.  If I get you right, you are probably having tiny meals, working out at the gym and finding yourself starving for that chocolate bar, (no pun intended), or that bag of chips to ward off that killing feeling stomach pangs.  I say to you read Atkins book, “Dr. Atkins’ Diet Revolution,” and follow his advice.  You should keep a dairy of what you are eating, and I do mean the good and the bad, just to observe your habits.  I for instance, use to have a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for breakfast with a soda.  Then snack on cakes or candy bars and have a chicken or turkey hero for lunch, which is a big sandwich for lunch.  After that, I would again snack on chocolate cakes or ice cream.  For dinner, I would have chicken with rice or potato and corn or something and desert on a large portion of pies, cakes or cookies.  Still throughout the day, I would drink sugar drinks to keep the hunger pang away.  However, yesterday for breakfast I had one jumbo egg omelet mixes with vegetables of garlic, green pepper, onion, squash, and tofu.  I had skipped lunch, which is easy for I do not have those hunger desirers and for dinner, I had chicken thigh without skin, with salad.  The salad was a bowl of iceberg lettuce mixed with water crest, onion, garlic, tofu with olive oil and black pepper.  Note there are no sodas or sugary drinks even if it is a health drink.  Sugar is sugar no matter if it is a health drink or not.  Now it was hard to get to this point and it is day 25, well if you count the first week that I really started but cheated, it’s day 30.

you're making me hungry. today's meal sounded excellent!
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 11, 2010, 05:40:20 am
If you want to in a private thread I'll disclose height, weight and arm/waist measurements and we can update biweekly in order to bolster and support one another :D
Thanks.  I will consider it but nothing is private on the internet.  I am self motivating and I have made measurements already.  Sorry for the mistake before, but looking back at my collected data on June 2nd my waist was 42" and now it's 40".  My chest was 43" and now is 42".  The weight then was 213.  Now it is 205.  Pounds not stones....  :D
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 11, 2010, 05:42:32 am
you're making me hungry. today's meal sounded excellent!
remember it is the sugar that make one hungry and the more sugar you eat, or chips or any high carbs, the more you want to eat.  But read the book and see if you agree with his idea of how to get to your goal.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 11, 2010, 05:44:44 am
you're making me hungry. today's meal sounded excellent!
By the way, I drink Green Tea and never coffee or regular tea.  I just can't handle the caffine and the Green Tea gives me a full feeling.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: bocker3 on June 11, 2010, 10:25:01 pm
remember it is the sugar that make one hungry and the more sugar you eat, or chips or any high carbs, the more you want to eat.  But read the book and see if you agree with his idea of how to get to your goal.

Actually -- i think that it is a lack of food that makes you hungry.  Too much sugar may sap your energy but doesn't make you hungry -- it may make you want more, but it doesn't make you hungry.

I'm not a fan of Atkins -- i tried it once and when I had to not eat vegetables at a meal during his initial 2 week "blitz" (I forget the details of the requrirements at this point), I thought better of proceeding -- I mean I didn't get fat from eating vegetables!

I then joined Weight Watchers and watched 65 lbs disappear over 9 months.  Kept it off for 7 years too -- unfortunately a "chunk" of it found me again, so I've rejoined and lost 9.8 lbs in 3 weeks.  I can eat whatever I want -- just have to figure out the "points" of it.  If I want more points than I'm allowed -- I can go exercise and earn more (or just lose more weight).

If Atkins works for you -- go for it.  However, at the end of the day it is about calories in and calories burned and nothing else.

Mike
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: tednlou2 on June 12, 2010, 12:53:05 am
I'm on a diet now.  I've gained weight over the last year.  I've cut out sweets.  I only eat fruit, dried fruit, and Light Activia Yogurt for something sweet.  Well, I still have a couple sodas.  I know I still need to cut those out.  I've been eating much smaller portions of food.  I put my food on a bread plate instead of regular plate.  When ya use a regular plate, ya think you need to put more food on it.  I'm drinking lots of water.  I've cut out fast food.  I did go to Texas Roadhouse tonight, but it is the weekend.  I think ya have to allow yourself something on the weekend.  I did eat more than I should have.   

In a week, I've lost 6 pounds.  We are going to Florida next month, so I want to lose about 20 pounds before then.  I know experts believe you should eat around 6 small meals a day to keep your metabolism up.  You should only eat until the hunger goes away and stop---don't eat until you feel all full and bloated.  Obvious, right?  My partner did the Atkins a few years ago and got all weird.  He became a bitch.  I think you need more carbs than it allows.  I think Atkins is only good if you need to lose weight really fast.  I don't think you can sustain that for months and months.   
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 12, 2010, 04:26:34 am
Actually -- i think that it is a lack of food that makes you hungry.  Too much sugar may sap your energy but doesn't make you hungry -- it may make you want more, but it doesn't make you hungry.

I'm not a fan of Atkins -- i tried it once and when I had to not eat vegetables at a meal during his initial 2 week "blitz" (I forget the details of the requrirements at this point), I thought better of proceeding -- I mean I didn't get fat from eating vegetables!

I then joined Weight Watchers and watched 65 lbs disappear over 9 months.  Kept it off for 7 years too -- unfortunately a "chunk" of it found me again, so I've rejoined and lost 9.8 lbs in 3 weeks.  I can eat whatever I want -- just have to figure out the "points" of it.  If I want more points than I'm allowed -- I can go exercise and earn more (or just lose more weight).

If Atkins works for you -- go for it.  However, at the end of the day it is about calories in and calories burned and nothing else.

Mike
Tell me more of your meal plan and which Atkins' Diet book did you follow?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 12, 2010, 05:03:24 am
I'm on a diet now.  I've gained weight over the last year.  I've cut out sweets.  I only eat fruit, dried fruit, and Light Activia Yogurt for something sweet.  Well, I still have a couple sodas.  I know I still need to cut those out.  I've been eating much smaller portions of food.  I put my food on a bread plate instead of regular plate.  When ya use a regular plate, ya think you need to put more food on it.  I'm drinking lots of water.  I've cut out fast food.  I did go to Texas Roadhouse tonight, but it is the weekend.  I think ya have to allow yourself something on the weekend.  I did eat more than I should have.   

In a week, I've lost 6 pounds.  We are going to Florida next month, so I want to lose about 20 pounds before then.  I know experts believe you should eat around 6 small meals a day to keep your metabolism up.  You should only eat until the hunger goes away and stop---don't eat until you feel all full and bloated.  Obvious, right?  My partner did the Atkins a few years ago and got all weird.  He became a bitch.  I think you need more carbs than it allows.  I think Atkins is only good if you need to lose weight really fast.  I don't think you can sustain that for months and months.   
Well, sometimes when people mention Atkins’ Diet they think just meat and no veggies.    Actually, yes eat protein but eat veggies like salads of leafy greens, celery, or cucumbers (ha you say cum) and radishes.   In addition, you can eat veggies of your choice from asparagus to zucchini squash.  Atkins’ Diet is more than that of course, for it is a study of how your body reacts to types of foods.  This is true especially if they are high in carbohydrates, aka sugar which includes fruits and dried fruits.  Your body is the science experience if you feel you are overweight and need to lose some pounds or mass.  I know that for me the first week was a killer.  I mean, I have a stash of big Dark Chocolates bars with macadamia nuts, which I adore, and thought since it is dark chocolate than that is a healthy treat.  Now I realize that the old way of eating was maintaining the 230 lbs of weight.  It has been 30 days since I put them away and I was sugar deprive but now I can handle the stress.  As a matter if fact, without the flux in sugar levels in my system, I lost the hunger pangs.  I did become a bit anxious but that is to be expected the first week.  My only fear is when I lose the weight I get scared.  I guess somewhere in the back of my head, weight lose means dead or dying.   Funny, the reverse of that is fat means happy and healthy.  Dam!  It has its tribulations.  Also, once you have reached your weight goal, Atkins advises you to gradually reintroduce the sugary foods or treats and see how your body reacts.  Then you can gauge how much you can handle without gaining too much weight.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 12, 2010, 05:08:04 am
In addition, exercise adds to your weight lost goal.  I just had a hour walk yesterday and I do have bar bells at home to do arm exercises.  I think, for me, walking is the best because it is low stress on my legs and not hard to do.   :)
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: J.R.E. on June 12, 2010, 06:38:03 am
Most of my excess weight is in my midsection.  If I could get that down, that would be great. I am 5ft 7" @ 172 lbs. If I could get down to 165 that would great also.

The VA, just put me on the " Cardiac Diet"  A few weeks back. Their more concerned about my BP and cholesterol, than weight.  This is basically a low sodium and higher fiber diet..  I was trying to see if the VA had this pamplet in a PDF form , on their website, but couldn't find it.

But to summarize:

I am to avoid these foods:

Salted crackers, salted chips, salted nuts, salted popcorn, instant hot cereal, canned spaghetti, and pasta dishes ( never would touch that stuff) , instant potatoes, rice mixes, and casserole mixes, pastries, crackers made with lard or shortening.

I am to avoid Olives, pickles, sauerkraut, Vegetable juice (V-8), frozen vegetables in sauce, pickle relish, ,  canned vegetables ( unless low sodium)


All fatty meats such as bacon, cured or smoked ham, smoked pork or fish,luncheon meats, deli meats, franklfurters,  canned meat,  frozen dinners, frozwen entrees, anchovies, and caviar ( like I can afford caviar  :o  )


Avoid:  American cheese, bleu, parmesan , Roquefort, processed or cream cheese.


Avoid:  Whole milk products, Ice cream ( this is tough   >:(   )    Chinese food, ( which I l love),  party dips, gravy mix,  Pizza, Mexican food, products with coconut oil, Palm oil, or palm kernel oil, commercial mixes for breads or desserts, canned or dried soups.


Then she has special notations written :

Drink Skim milk ( I already do that)

Limit egg yolks to 3 per week ( already started egg beaters- actually their good) One egg yolk is 200 mgs of cholesterol.

Eat more poultry ( without skin) and fish more often than red meats.

Broil, roast bake, and/or stew meats , poultry, fish.

Limit your fay servings to 5-8 teaspoons per day, or 45-70 grams of fat per day.

Eat many servings of fresh fruits, vegetables, dried beans, WHOLE GRAIN BREADS, and cereals .  Eat oatmeal, or oatbran often.

Read the labels more often ( I do that already) for sodium and fat content.

Eat cheese made with low fat milk or skim milk. ( already do that)

Eat fish more often, especially those containing Omega 3 oils ( Salmon, sardines, mackeral, herring, halibut, trout, and tuna.

Doo not use fish oil supplements unless under the guidance of your physician.


Other notes:


When buying whole grain or whole wheat breadsCheck the labels for the first three ingrediants.  Should have 2-4 grams of fiber per slice.

When buying dinners, make sure the sodium content is < 600mg, per box or serving.


I can eat Provalone, mozzella, and swiss cheese.


She also gave me a website to use.  She uses it a lot. Most of the website is free, but there is a pay portion, which I haven't had to use.


I am to be on 25 grams of fiber per day,  and beleive it or not,  this diet hasn't been that hard to keep.  I wasn't off too much, from what I was doing.

That website is:  www.calorieking.com


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

How to make foods tasty :

At first your food may not seem tasty, without salt.  However, using spices and herbs ( other than salt) can improve the following foods flavor:

Fruits:  allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemonjuice

Chicken: Garlic mushrooms, curry, sage, onion, paprika, parsley, tarragon pepper, wine,cranberries, poultry seasoning.

Fish: Bay leaf, marjoram, onion, mushrooms, dillweed, dry mustard, lemon juice, basil, curry, and pepper.

Pork:  Apples, garlic, onion, sage, pepper

Eggs:  Curry, tomato, basil, dryt mustard, onion, pepper

Beef:  Bay leaf,  dry mustard, sage, basil, , wine, onion, thyme, marjoram, nutmeg, pepper

Vegetables:  Lemon juice, onion, dill seed , nutmeg, basil, bay leaf, pepper, marjoram, green pepper,  garlic, Italian seasoning.


Note:  Marinate meats twice as long for spices to penetrate well , without the use of salt.



Anyway, that's what I am doing, and it's not too hard to follow.


There's more info she gave me for managing hypertension, and more on "What is Fiber"  , But it's too much for me to type up for now.


Ray
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: bocker3 on June 12, 2010, 10:04:30 am
This is true especially if they are high in carbohydrates, aka sugar which includes fruits and dried fruits. 

Any diet that tells me I should not eat fruit raises red flags. 

i don't subscribe to the theory that my body "reacts" to natural foods in a negative way....  doesn't make evolutionary sense.  Fruits, vegetables -- these are things we are supposed to eat -- meat too, we are omnivores.  however, if something works for others, I say go for it, but it seems a bit dangerous to me and I feel like there are things being delivered as "facts" that are nothing more than someone else's approach.

there are 2 things that cause my weight gain -- too much food in general and probably, more specifically, too much processed and fast food.  These are relatively easy to cut out.

At the end of the day, getting to a healthy weight is a good thing and if it's done safely and in a healthy manner -- do it.

Mike
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: BT65 on June 12, 2010, 11:05:58 am
Any diet that tells me I should not eat fruit raises red flags. 
Mike

I agree.  I'm diabetic, and fruit is more than welcome (and recommended by a diabetic nutritionist) in my diet.  I don't eat it in large quantities, and there's recommended intake (such as a cup of this or that).  But, there's a recommended intake for all foods.  Not good to eat fruit?  Nonsense.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on June 12, 2010, 11:23:45 am
The thing about the atkins diet (and why I call it a fad diet) is it advises you to drop all sugar completely in order to enter the state of keytosis.  Even naturally occuring sugars, which to me are good sugars.  I'm much more a fan of moderating your eating habits and not gorging on large quantities of calories.  At the same time however I snack on a lot of low-cal foods anyway.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 12, 2010, 04:19:25 pm
Any diet that tells me I should not eat fruit raises red flags. 

i don't subscribe to the theory that my body "reacts" to natural foods in a negative way....  doesn't make evolutionary sense.  Fruits, vegetables -- these are things we are supposed to eat -- meat too, we are omnivores.  however, if something works for others, I say go for it, but it seems a bit dangerous to me and I feel like there are things being delivered as "facts" that are nothing more than someone else's approach.

there are 2 things that cause my weight gain -- too much food in general and probably, more specifically, too much processed and fast food.  These are relatively easy to cut out.

At the end of the day, getting to a healthy weight is a good thing and if it's done safely and in a healthy manner -- do it.

Mike
I am saying to avoid fruit because it has sugar in it.  I am not saying that you have to avoid it forever.  You can reintroduce it to your diet once you have reached your weight goal.  Only then will you know what amount your body can handle with going over your weight goal.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 12, 2010, 04:26:43 pm
I agree.  I'm diabetic, and fruit is more than welcome (and recommended by a diabetic nutritionist) in my diet.  I don't eat it in large quantities, and there's recommended intake (such as a cup of this or that).  But, there's a recommended intake for all foods.  Not good to eat fruit?  Nonsense.
so you are at your weight goal, not that Atkins is a good diet plan for you?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 12, 2010, 04:34:37 pm
The thing about the atkins diet (and why I call it a fad diet) is it advises you to drop all sugar completely in order to enter the state of keytosis.  Even naturally occuring sugars, which to me are good sugars.  I'm much more a fan of moderating your eating habits and not gorging on large quantities of calories.  At the same time however I snack on a lot of low-cal foods anyway.
Then if you are already at your weight goal then you have no problem.  Like I may have mentioned before, Atkins worked for me in the past and it seems to be working now.  If you have a problem with Atkins, then you have a problem with Atkins.  I hope to reach my weight limit by or near year-end.  If I reach it and of course I will have my health provider check on my physical condition, than great.  Anyway, it sounds and looks like you already reached your weight goal.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 12, 2010, 04:47:47 pm
Most of my excess weight is in my midsection.  If I could get that down, that would be great. I am 5ft 7" @ 172 lbs. If I could get down to 165 that would great also.

The VA, just put me on the " Cardiac Diet"  A few weeks back. Their more concerned about my BP and cholesterol, than weight.  This is basically a low sodium and higher fiber diet..  I was trying to see if the VA had this pamplet in a PDF form , on their website, but couldn't find it.

....
Ray

Hi Ray,
I too worry about hypertension and sodium in my diet.  In fact, a few days ago I use to use a lot of salt in my cooking, until I took my blood pressure.  It was reading high, so I decided to cut out salt completely.  I even put the cheese I brought in the freezer to not tempt me.  I still have eggs for breakfast, but once it is finished I will switch to cottage cheese or some low sodium cheese.  Then for breakfast, I will have cottage cheese and a salad.  Once I get near my weight goal, I will switch to oatmeal and see if my metabolism can handle that.  In addition, your desire weight should be as follows.  At 5’7”, a small frame for men is 132 – 141 lbs.  For a medium frame, it is 142 – 156 lbs and for large frame, it is 151 – 170 lbs.  This is adapted from Metropolitan Life Insurance Co., 1959.  I think my range is 151 – 170 lbs.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 12, 2010, 04:53:06 pm
On recommendation of a friend, I took a before pictures of my body.  I just waiting for the after.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: BT65 on June 12, 2010, 07:46:37 pm
so you are at your weight goal, not that Atkins is a good diet plan for you?

I don't do Atkins, but whatever works for you.  I obviously have some guides I have to follow being diabetic, so I rely pretty heavily on the word and direction of a diabetic nurtirionist. 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: tednlou2 on June 13, 2010, 01:20:01 am
It really does have to be a lifestyle change.  We all know so many people who diet and deprive themselves to lose weight.  Some of them are able to lose a lot.  We probably have all seen these people gain all the weight back and then some.

I could get to my weight loss goal by next month and then start pigging out again and gain it all back.  I've already done this over the last 16 months.  I've lost 20 pounds and then gained it back.  I need to get back to exercising like I use to do.  If you are active enough, you should be able to enjoy the foods you like, because you're burning so much off.

There are people with good metabolisms like my dad.  He eats breakfast everyday--either bacon and eggs or sausage and eggs.  His cholesterol is good with no meds.  He barely drinks sodas though, so I think that says a lot.  However, he will eat a huge bowel of cereal at night and then ice cream on top of that.  Oh, he also drinks whole milk--tons of it.  I think he just has better genetics when it comes to weight.  I get mine from my mom I guess.  One more thing about him--- He is always hungry.  He has to eat something every couple hours.  So, I think eating those several small meals throughout the day help to keep his metabolism up.  I don't understand the sugary cereal and ice cream, though.  He stays so skinny.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: rondrond on June 13, 2010, 03:58:07 am
Hi Ray,
........ In addition, your desire weight should be as follows.  At 5’7”, a small frame for men is 132 – 141 lbs.  For a medium frame, it is 142 – 156 lbs and for large frame, it is 151 – 170 lbs.  This is adapted from Metropolitan Life Insurance Co., 1959.  I think my range is 151 – 170 lbs.


They forgot about those of us with big bones. My Dr states that I should weigh 200lbs. I'm now at 244...from 274...44 more to go....Taking sodium intake in consideration, (use No Salt and Mrs Dash) I eat what I want, just use a fork and spoon and small plate instead of a shovel and a platter....
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: J.R.E. on June 13, 2010, 05:19:38 am
Hi Ray,
I too worry about hypertension and sodium in my diet.  In fact, a few days ago I use to use a lot of salt in my cooking, until I took my blood pressure.  It was reading high, so I decided to cut out salt completely.  I even put the cheese I brought in the freezer to not tempt me.  I still have eggs for breakfast, but once it is finished I will switch to cottage cheese or some low sodium cheese.  Then for breakfast, I will have cottage cheese and a salad.  Once I get near my weight goal, I will switch to oatmeal and see if my metabolism can handle that.  In addition, your desire weight should be as follows.  At 5’7”, a small frame for men is 132 – 141 lbs.  For a medium frame, it is 142 – 156 lbs and for large frame, it is 151 – 170 lbs.  This is adapted from Metropolitan Life Insurance Co., 1959.  I think my range is 151 – 170 lbs.


Sounds like a good plan.   I also was a little heavy on the salt.  I switched to a salt substitute, and the first thing she told me was to stop using the salt substitute.  Apparently, it's too high in Potassium, and can effect the blood pressure medication.  She highly recommended that "Mrs. Dash "  seasoning.

Try the eggbeaters too.  Their not bad at all, and either is the turkey-bacon for breakfast, along  with a couple slices of all-grain toast. It's hard to make a sandwich with the all grain bread,( too cardboardy) but for toast it's fine.


As far as my own weight, I've always had a very good solid build ( until the last few years) and my weight (for as long as I can remember ) was always 165-170 lbs .


Good luck, wishing you the best !!  


Ray
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: J.R.E. on June 13, 2010, 05:34:25 am


Just wanted to add, the most my weight has ever been, was 183 lbs. And that was about 1 year after starting HAART.

Ray
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 13, 2010, 05:57:33 pm
I don't do Atkins, but whatever works for you.  I obviously have some guides I have to follow being diabetic, so I rely pretty heavily on the word and direction of a diabetic nurtirionist. 
This isn’t the “Hurray for Atkins it’s the Best Diet Ever” Thread.  It’s the “Are You Dieting Now” thread asking what kind of diet are you on or do you have any advice to give to others.  I just happen to be on the Akins’ Diet and it is working for me.  In addition, I thoroughly read the book and I am applying its principles.  In addition, I do need to say this, get help with a medical professional before you venture into, aka, “Fad Diets,” or any diet.   

Further more, the Atkins book does mention about diabetics. 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on June 13, 2010, 06:03:38 pm
Speaking of dieting, I just today went to Cracker Barrel (http://www.crackerbarrel.com/) for the very first time in my entire life.  I'd always purposely boycotted this establishment, but my parents decided that we had to have lunch there in Fred Vegas, aka Fredericksburg, VA, on the way back from Raleigh.  I'm not sure when else I've ever seen such a large room chock full of obese redneck crackers.

I ordered a plate of salt-cured ham, mac & cheese, cole slaw, biscuits along with a glass of raspberry lemonade and a slice of strawberry "ice box" pie.  Good thing I'm only 5 lbs overweight right now.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on June 13, 2010, 06:07:13 pm

In a week, I've lost 6 pounds.  We are going to Florida next month, so I want to lose about 20 pounds before then. 


3-day meth binge followed by food poisoning will fit you into that Prada number.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 13, 2010, 06:08:43 pm

There are people with good metabolisms like my dad.  He eats breakfast everyday--either bacon and eggs or sausage and eggs.  His cholesterol is good with no meds.  He barely drinks sodas though, so I think that says a lot.  However, he will eat a huge bowel of cereal at night and then ice cream on top of that.  Oh, he also drinks whole milk--tons of it.  I think he just has better genetics when it comes to weight.  I get mine from my mom I guess.  One more thing about him--- He is always hungry.  He has to eat something every couple hours.  So, I think eating those several small meals throughout the day help to keep his metabolism up.  I don't understand the sugary cereal and ice cream, though.  He stays so skinny.
Your father metabolism is not good or better, it is just different.  I had the same problem with my bf.  We ate the same meals, dine on deserts and he would remain skinny while I gain pounds.  I also thought that it was simply the genes or his stomach or whatever.  In the end, his metabolism was processing food differently. He did not get fat or maybe produce fat cells, while my metabolism quickly turns the food into fat. I use to hate and blame myself.  There was a lot of self-pity at that time.  My waist size was 50 inches.  Imagine that…  The only equalizer was to work out like crazy and only then I could eat as he did.  That was running, weight lifting, and playing sports.  The only problem there was I would exercise in the early spring and summer but quit in the fall and winter.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 13, 2010, 06:28:01 pm

They forgot about those of us with big bones. My Dr states that I should weigh 200lbs. I'm now at 244...from 274...44 more to go....Taking sodium intake in consideration, (use No Salt and Mrs Dash) I eat what I want, just use a fork and spoon and small plate instead of a shovel and a platter....
I think not.  Your bones maybe bigger then small or medium frame, but it should fall within the large frame category. Your Doctor may have been trying to spear you stress or anxiety.  I could be wrong.  Here is a chart for a web page, which I will put on this tread.


http://www.nutrawize.com/nutribase/wtchartm.htm
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 13, 2010, 06:30:26 pm
Speaking of dieting, I just today went to Cracker Barrel (http://www.crackerbarrel.com/) for the very first time in my entire life.  I'd always purposely boycotted this establishment, but my parents decided that we had to have lunch there in Fred Vegas, aka Fredericksburg, VA, on the way back from Raleigh.  I'm not sure when else I've ever seen such a large room chock full of obese redneck crackers.

I ordered a plate of salt-cured ham, mac & cheese, cole slaw, biscuits along with a glass of raspberry lemonade and a slice of strawberry "ice box" pie.  Good thing I'm only 5 lbs overweight right now.
Sorry sister, but you may find yourself 15 lbs overweight.   :D
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 13, 2010, 06:31:19 pm
3-day meth binge followed by food poisoning will fit you into that Prada number.
lol  you're terrible.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 13, 2010, 06:33:52 pm

They forgot about those of us with big bones. My Dr states that I should weigh 200lbs. I'm now at 244...from 274...44 more to go....Taking sodium intake in consideration, (use No Salt and Mrs Dash) I eat what I want, just use a fork and spoon and small plate instead of a shovel and a platter....
What kind of exercise do you do?  Running, walking, weights?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 13, 2010, 10:02:22 pm

They forgot about those of us with big bones. My Dr states that I should weigh 200lbs. I'm now at 244...from 274...44 more to go....Taking sodium intake in consideration, (use No Salt and Mrs Dash) I eat what I want, just use a fork and spoon and small plate instead of a shovel and a platter....
I was thinking that instead of big bone, you may have massive muscle. 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: tednlou2 on June 14, 2010, 12:17:20 am
3-day meth binge followed by food poisoning will fit you into that Prada number.

I'll have to try that regimen.  Does it come with a work-out DVD?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: next2u on June 14, 2010, 12:47:47 am
3-day meth binge followed by food poisoning will fit you into that Prada number.

i don't know about the meth binge but the food poisoning definitely worked for me :o

lol. i craved healthy food today. brocolli, chicken, soup. unfortunately it tasted really good so i wanted a lot of it. eventually (once i reached my satiation point) i just put the shit up. the longer it was in front of me the more i at. im still not hungry but damn my eyes are voracious! today's lesson - smaller portions and less tasty meals.

best,
d
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: aferstilo on June 14, 2010, 01:11:55 am
In my experience of now having the body i always wanted from being 20 pounds overweight i'll tell u that i lost it very fast by just ONLY eating when you are hungry in small portions after hunger goes away you stop eating. also there is P90x look it up on youtube, this was very painful but completly worth it.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: bocker3 on June 14, 2010, 07:33:42 am
I am saying to avoid fruit because it has sugar in it.  I am not saying that you have to avoid it forever.  You can reintroduce it to your diet once you have reached your weight goal.  Only then will you know what amount your body can handle with going over your weight goal.

I don't care why the diet says to avoid it.  If a diet says to avoid fruit to lose weight, something just ain't right.  Again, if it works for you, fine -- but I can't sit silently while you are trying to convince others of this diet.  People don't get fat eating fruit -- but MANY people lose weight by eating fruit in place of other things.

Mike
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on June 14, 2010, 09:39:37 am
I'll have to try that regimen.  Does it come with a work-out DVD?

Yes, and lots of house remixes of Mariah Scarey playing in the background.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 14, 2010, 10:08:51 am
I don't care why the diet says to avoid it.  If a diet says to avoid fruit to lose weight, something just ain't right.  Again, if it works for you, fine -- but I can't sit silently while you are trying to convince others of this diet.  People don't get fat eating fruit -- but MANY people lose weight by eating fruit in place of other things.

Mike
k...
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 14, 2010, 10:11:59 am
I don't care why the diet says to avoid it.  If a diet says to avoid fruit to lose weight, something just ain't right.  Again, if it works for you, fine -- but I can't sit silently while you are trying to convince others of this diet.  People don't get fat eating fruit -- but MANY people lose weight by eating fruit in place of other things.

Mike
Actually, I haven't had a fruit, the kind you pick off trees, in 30 days.  I am thinking that I will have a peach for Christmas.   :)
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 14, 2010, 10:16:13 am
The thing about the atkins diet (and why I call it a fad diet) is it advises you to drop all sugar completely in order to enter the state of keytosis.  Even naturally occuring sugars, which to me are good sugars.  I'm much more a fan of moderating your eating habits and not gorging on large quantities of calories.  At the same time however I snack on a lot of low-cal foods anyway.
For example?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on June 14, 2010, 12:56:40 pm
For example?

Whole pickles, Peppercinni peppers, rice cakes.  All high sodium, but sodium is not a concern in my diet.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: rondrond on June 14, 2010, 02:38:59 pm
What kind of exercise do you do?  Running, walking, weights?
I was thinking that instead of big bone, you may have massive muscle. 


I have these exercises given to me at Physical Therapy. They involve stretching, kind of like Pilates. Takes about 15 minutes. They were more interested in working my legs due to the poor circulation, so I do lunges and leg lifts. Then, I garden, and do yard work.  Working those hedge clippers are great for the arms and upper body. Then, I have a pile of dirt that I am moving to fill the hole where the pool used to be. I do about four wheelbarrow loads a day.

(http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/643/194025333818108026.jpg)


(http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/9116/194025334341371263.jpg)

(http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/5809/194025336384020209.gif)
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: next2u on June 14, 2010, 10:44:43 pm
when will be the pool be done? i'm sure you have it all planned out. by the time you get to your ideal weight your pool will be ready for your bikini clad body.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 15, 2010, 04:40:28 pm
I have some very good news to report about myself.  I am at 201lbs, and that is with pants and undies.  With this type of progress, my goal to reach under 200 lbs will be reach sooner than hoped.  All is well, except that I was up all night spring cleaning.  Now I am in a dirt free environment for at least one day.    ;D
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on June 15, 2010, 04:46:37 pm
Up all night "cleaning" you say?  Sounds a bit like that diet I recommended earlier in the thread!
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 16, 2010, 04:10:57 am
Up all night "cleaning" you say?  Sounds a bit like that diet I recommended earlier in the thread!
I know, just a natural high.  That's still legal right?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on June 16, 2010, 09:45:29 am
I know, just a natural high.  That's still legal right?

I'm looking into ways to tax it for more revenue as we speak.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 16, 2010, 01:45:45 pm
I'm looking into ways to tax it for more revenue as we speak.
Just when it was safe to walk the streets, a capitalist taxes the sidewalk.  How interesting.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 16, 2010, 02:24:19 pm
I think I am over the hump and I am on my way to my set goal.  According to my updated schedule, I should reach my weight goal in 90 days or 3 months which is by mid October.  I have already seen a difference for my legs don't hug the thigh of my pants.  Also, my large shirts looks bigger on me.  I am a bit worried that I am losing to quickly, but I wont panic.  Today, my meals consist of for breakfast, 2 egg whites and a small salad, for lunch, Chicken Dijon and broccoli and for dinner, fried tofu with spinash and a salad.  Wow, I usually eat way more that that, but I am seriously aware of that.  I must make an effort to let my mind adjust to the new eating habit.  Right now I am still around 200 lbs and by next week I hope to be just under 200 lbs.  I will do my measurements this Friday.  Wish me luck.

Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: J.R.E. on June 16, 2010, 03:06:12 pm


On Medpage today :


http://www.medpagetoday.com/PrimaryCare/DietNutrition/20702?utm_content=GroupCL&utm_medium=email&impressionId=1276666939690&utm_campaign=DailyHeadlines&utm_source=mSpoke&userid=73322


New Diet Guidelines Focus on Unhealthy Population
By Kristina Fiore, Staff Writer, MedPage Today
Published: June 15, 2010
   


The latest set of national dietary guidelines acknowledges that many Americans are unhealthy and emphasizes efforts to battle the obesity epidemic.

In addition to lower sodium and saturated and trans fat goals, the recommendations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) also call for policymakers and the food industry to become engaged in the fight.

"The most important issue is that this set of guidelines is addressing an unhealthy American public for the first time," said Linda V. Van Horn, PhD, RD, LD, of Northwestern University, the chair of the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. "The obesity epidemic is priority number one, and every single thing in this report is focused on addressing that problem up front."

Yet in terms of intake recommendations, there are not many changes from the last guidelines update in 2005.

Fat and Salt Intake Top Changes

The changes in fat consumption are among the biggest new recommendations. The new guidance urges that saturated fat intake be cut from 10% of total daily energy consumption to just 7%, with more emphasis on calories from the more healthful mono- and polyunsaturated fats.

And the trans fat intake recommendation has been cut in half -- from 1% to 0.5%, with the idea being to eat as few of these fatty acids as possible, Van Horn told MedPage Today in an interview.

Another key change is in the sodium intake recommendation. The 2005 guidelines put it at 2,300 mg per day for the general population. However, since 70% of Americans have diabetes, heart disease, obesity, or some other risk factor, the new recommended daily allowance is 1,500 mg. That was the number set in the old guidelines only for the high-risk group.

The advisory also encourages increased potassium intake because the element helps attenuate the effects of sodium on blood pressure.

Still, there are no new recommendations in terms of cholesterol consumption, which stands at 300 mg per day for healthy adults, and less than 200 mg daily for high-risk individuals.

And recommendations for protein and carbohydrate intake have remained relatively unchanged, although the new guidelines call for a shift to a more plant-based diet that focuses on nutrient-rich rather than energy-dense foods.

"Recognizing underconsumption of key nutrients like dietary fiber will go a long way toward helping people consume the nutrients they are missing by shifting intake toward lower energy but higher nutrient-dense foods," Van Horn said.

That means eating more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, seafood, and low-fat milk and dairy products while cutting back on refined grains, added sugars, and solid fats -- particularly those found in sugar-sweetened beverages and desserts, the researchers said.

Specifically, recommended seafood intake is two, four-ounce servings per week, to accrue 250 mg per day of omega-3 fatty acids including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).

Van Horn says the changes in diet and nutrient intake "won't happen overnight," and expects the process to be gradual.

Skeptics Abound

Nutrition experts say one of the most challenging changes will be the sodium recommendations.

"No one made it down to only the 2005 recommended max of 2,300 mg of sodium daily," said Keith Ayoob, EdD, RD, of Albert Einstein College of Medicine, in New York City. "If people have trouble reaching [that] mark, then 1,500 mg will be even tougher."

Connie Diekman, MEd, RD, LD, of Washington University in St. Louis, said that most Americans eat 3,000 to 8,000 mg of sodium per day: "Why not develop better ways to get them to 2,300 and then see how that impacts the incidence of hypertension?"

Ayoob added that the earlier recommendations "allow people a condiment here and there, and even a bowl of soup, especially if it's a reduced sodium one. That would be more realistic for consumers, and it would still require some changes to how people eat."

Van Horn said meeting the goals will also require the cooperation of policymakers and the food industry.

The idea is to provide incentives to offer healthier products, she said. Ideally, companies should take "key products and gradually but deliberately reduce [for example] the sodium contents of those foods."

"As the American palate gradually adjusts," she said, "those food products can remain front and center in the American diet but not contribute the excessive amounts of sugar, fats, and salt."

Diekman said the key will be "helping consumers change their taste palate so that the shift in food choices is achievable."

The guidelines also recommend against a daily multivitamin and encourage moderate alcohol intake, at no more than a drink a day for women and two for men.

They also address food safety issues, outline four key steps to prevent foodborne illness: "clean, separate, cook, and chill."

In a prepared statement, Margo G. Wootan, nutrition policy director for the Center for Science in the Public Interest, applauded the committee for recognizing that "what is most needed is an unprecedented effort to help people follow the Dietary Guidelines, including changes in policy and the food environment.

"The report wisely recommends that USDA and HHS develop a national strategy to help people eat better, including ramping up nutrition education, expanding access to fruits and vegetables, and getting industry to provide more-healthful products."

National dietary guidelines were first published in 1980 and are reviewed every five years. They new set of guidelines is open for public comment until July 15.

This article was developed in collaboration with ABC News.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 17, 2010, 07:16:44 am

http://www.medpagetoday.com/PrimaryCare/DietNutrition/20702?utm_content=GroupCL&utm_medium=email&impressionId=1276666939690&utm_campaign=DailyHeadlines&utm_source=mSpoke&userid=73322

New Diet Guidelines Focus on Unhealthy Population
By Kristina Fiore, Staff Writer, MedPage Today
Published: June 15, 2010

National dietary guidelines were first published in 1980 and are reviewed every five years. They new set of guidelines is open for public comment until July 15.

This article was developed in collaboration with ABC News.

So what is your comment and where do you fit in this category? 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 17, 2010, 07:20:40 am
So what is your comment and where do you fit in this category? 
The problem is growing and people need to realize that obesity, diabetes, and heart disease will cause problems for them either now or later in life. 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: J.R.E. on June 17, 2010, 07:23:31 am
So what is your comment and where do you fit in this category?  

I am in the too much sodium, and just a little too much fat category !   :P      Obese, I am not though.  This is why I mentioned the Cardiac diet, That I am currently on.

EDITED , to add no further comment, Just an intereresting email I received, the other day


Ray
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 17, 2010, 09:49:08 pm
I am in the too much sodium, and just a little too much fat category !   :P      Obese, I am not though.  This is why I mentioned the Cardiac diet, That I am currently on.

EDITED , to add no further comment, Just an intereresting email I received, the other day


Ray
I may have asked this before, and sorry if I did, but what is your meal plan?  What do you have for Breakfast, for Lunch, for Dinner and/or for snacks?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 17, 2010, 09:56:17 pm
I am in the too much sodium, and just a little too much fat category !   :P      Obese, I am not though.  This is why I mentioned the Cardiac diet, That I am currently on.
EDITED , to add no further comment, Just an intereresting email I received, the other day
Ray
I use to put salt on my eggs for breakfast, and in my cooking for lunch and dinner.  I have a blood pressure machine and it has been reading what I deem high. Last reading was June 11th and it read 133/93 heart rate 107. Since then, I don't add salt to anything.  I hope that there is enough salt in the chicken, tofu, and veggies but I haven't felt sick or anything.  I have seen Dr. Oz show on how much salt one needs daily, which about one third teaspoon.  I must be in that range since I cook my meals and don't add salt.  I will check again tonight and tomorrow to see if it dropped to normal range.   My BP machine may not be accurate for it is around a year old and these machines when old sometimes give erroneous results. 

P.S.  Canned salmon was my Friday meal or now and then meal, but I stopped that on June 9th.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 17, 2010, 10:09:28 pm
I will do my measurements tomorrow but here are my measurements from June 2nd and June 10th.

neck   15   15
chest   43   42
stomach   41   40.5
waist   42   40
butt   44   42.5
thigh   26.5   25.5
calf   16.5   16
bicep   14   14
wt   213   209


I would put a graph of my weight loss which is on Microsoft Excel, but I don't know how.  Could someone help me with this please?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: tednlou2 on June 17, 2010, 10:49:23 pm
"The Today Show" investigated frozen diet meals and their claims of calories, fat, etc.  The results are surprising.  Some are way more than what it says and others actually lower.  This is true for all food--not just diet meals.  I never knew the gov't allows them to be off by so much.  When your food says it has 300 calories, it very well could have 500.

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/37726086#37726086
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: aztecan on June 18, 2010, 01:09:56 am
Well, as of yesterday, I had dropped slightly more than 11 pounds, which puts me at 175 pounds. I need to lose about 10 more pounds so I can weigh in at about 165 pounds.

That will put me comfortably in the middle of the weight range for someone of my height, which is 5'11".

I also had labs done this week.  :o

I have been quite naughty recently and not watched my fat intake as I should. I am not looking forward to the doctor visit next week.

Regarding what I eat, I alternate things so I don't become bored with anything.

What really helped me is portion control. I simply cut back on what eat at each setting. I will eat more often, but usually try to keep it as healthy as I can.

Wish me luck on the next 10 pounds.

HUGS,

Mark
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 18, 2010, 06:51:36 am


What really helped me is portion control. I simply cut back on what eat at each setting. I will eat more often, but usually try to keep it as healthy as I can.

Wish me luck on the next 10 pounds.

HUGS,

Mark

Congratulations Mark on your ten pounds loss.  I hope you will reach your goal.  Now for my measurements:  neck is 15”; chest is 40”; stomach is 40”; butt is 42”; thigh is 25.5”; calf is 16”; bicep is 13.5”.  I am over 30 days into my new lifestyle change and it looks good; although, I feel there is a lull now, but that was to be expected.  I look forward to reaching my weight goal of 170 to 160 lbs.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Queen Tokelove on June 18, 2010, 01:34:51 pm
I have read what everyone has said about diets and things. I have noticed that no one has mentioned drinking grapefruit juice. I have given up Pepsi and drink plenty of grapefruit juice which I am told burns fat. It must be working because when I went home for a visit, everyone noticed the weight loss. Even security at the airport noticed it after looking at my ID and asked what did I do to lose.

I have never had a problem with BP and maybe that is because I don't eat salt at all. My problem is that I love red meat especially steak. But I have been eating more chicken and I don't fry my food anymore. I grill all of my meat on the Foreman grill. Plus I have always loved veggies except for beans.

What I need to do is figure out what exercises to do to tighten up my core area without going to the gym.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on June 18, 2010, 02:02:30 pm
I have read what everyone has said about diets and things. I have noticed that no one has mentioned drinking grapefruit juice. I have given up Pepsi and drink plenty of grapefruit juice which I am told burns fat. It must be working because when I went home for a visit, everyone noticed the weight loss. Even security at the airport noticed it after looking at my ID and asked what did I do to lose.

I have never had a problem with BP and maybe that is because I don't eat salt at all. My problem is that I love red meat especially steak. But I have been eating more chicken and I don't fry my food anymore. I grill all of my meat on the Foreman grill. Plus I have always loved veggies except for beans.

What I need to do is figure out what exercises to do to tighten up my core area without going to the gym.

A lot of HIV meds react poorly with grapefruit Queen.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Queen Tokelove on June 18, 2010, 04:08:50 pm
Oh really, thanks for informing me. I am not on any meds at the moment. I should've thought of that since my sister who is neg can't drink grapefruit juice because she is on lisinopril, I think it is.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on June 18, 2010, 04:15:01 pm
Oh really, thanks for informing me. I am not on any meds at the moment. I should've thought of that since my sister who is neg can't drink grapefruit juice because she is on lisinopril, I think it is.

Yeah I didn't remember you talking about meds so I wasn't sure.  I actually didn't know that until someone else pointed it out to me and I looked it up.  I don't like grapefruit anyway though :D
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Queen Tokelove on June 18, 2010, 06:13:56 pm
Yeah I didn't remember you talking about meds so I wasn't sure.  I actually didn't know that until someone else pointed it out to me and I looked it up.  I don't like grapefruit anyway though :D

I know I am being lazy but do you know why grapefruit juice doesn't mix well with meds or which meds it is?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: skeebo1969 on June 18, 2010, 06:30:36 pm
I know I am being lazy but do you know why grapefruit juice doesn't mix well with meds or which meds it is?

Queen,

  I'm not sure but I think it has something to do with absorption issues.  
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on June 18, 2010, 07:37:24 pm
How does grapefruit interact with medicines?
Eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice affects how your body metabolizes (processes) certain medicines. Chemicals in grapefruit stop certain enzymes that normally process medicines from working correctly, which can cause higher levels of some medicines in your body. This makes it more likely that you will experience side effects from the medicine. Certain types of oranges, such as Pomelo and Seville, can also cause similar effects.

Interactions can happen up to 3 days after eating or drinking grapefruit. This means you cannot drink grapefruit juice in the morning and take your medicines later in the day to stop possible medicine interactions.



The only drug I can find that it interacts with is Saquinavir, but it is suggested that you avoid drinking grapejuice while taking Atripla as well.

"It is recommended that you avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medicine, as it could alter the blood level of the medicine."

Looks like that's standard amongst all HIV meds, but once again the only thing I could find information on it interacting with is saquinavir no idea what the brand name is.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on June 18, 2010, 08:09:37 pm
Actually when the first version of saquinavir came out in 1996 LaRoche recommended the opposite -- that you were to drink grapefruit juice.

http://www.thebody.com/content/treat/art30197.html

They came out with Fortovase in 1997, which was just saquinavir reformulated for better absorption boosted by Norvir, so you didn't have to drink grapefruit juice.

If it's "recommended" with Atripla, which I'd never heard, I guess it's for the Sustiva component because it's not instructed to do this with Truvada.  I've not taken Sustiva for over a decade and was only on a very short time so maybe I'm forgetting much of this.

But regardless, if you're drinking more than a glass of juice daily from grapefruits I'd run this by your doctor as it is known to effect various medications.  I find it odd that someone thinks this makes you "burn fat" when it's obvious that just halting the daily consumption of soft drinks will make you shed pounds.  I'd love to read more about this spectacular claim.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on June 18, 2010, 08:21:54 pm
If it's "recommended" with Atripla, which I'd never heard, I guess it's for the Sustiva component because it's not instructed to do this with Truvada.  I've not taken Sustiva for over a decade and was only on a very short time so maybe I'm forgetting much of this.

I think you misread me, it's recommended to avoid it.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on June 18, 2010, 08:32:22 pm
I think you misread me, it's recommended to avoid it.

Yeah, well you should let Ben know

http://www.thebody.com/Forums/AIDS/Meds/Archive/Interactions/Q187776.html

Is this on the package insert?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on June 18, 2010, 08:48:22 pm
Yeah, well you should let Ben know

http://www.thebody.com/Forums/AIDS/Meds/Archive/Interactions/Q187776.html

Is this on the package insert?

Actually just skimmed over the package insert and couldn't find any reference to it
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on June 18, 2010, 08:51:23 pm
Actually just skimmed over the package insert and couldn't find any reference to it

So basically you gave out incorrect information on two medications due to lack of links.  Got chittlins?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on June 18, 2010, 09:03:41 pm
So basically you gave out incorrect information on two medications due to lack of links.  Got chittlins?

What I did was make a mistake, then I admitted to it.  I specifically stated that saquinavir was the only drug spelled out to completely avoid taking grapejuice with and followed up with it is recommended (by doctors) to potentially avoid grapefruit juice while taking hiv meds in general (PI's in specific).
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on June 18, 2010, 09:22:36 pm
What I did was make a mistake, then I admitted to it.  I specifically stated that saquinavir was the only drug spelled out to completely avoid taking grapejuice with and followed up with it is recommended (by doctors) to potentially avoid grapefruit juice while taking hiv meds in general (PI's in specific).

No, you got the saquinavir thing wrong too -- read my posts and the links.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: aztecan on June 19, 2010, 02:31:09 am
When I started meds in March 1996,  I took Saquinavir. I fully remember being told by the doctor to drink 8 ounces of grapefruit juice with every dose, which was three times a day.

I was not happy. I have GERD.

But I do adore grapefruit. I will eat one every so often. It doesn't seem to interact with my regimen at this time.

Regarding its prohibition, here is a link to a blurb about it from 2004:

http://www.poz.com/articles/159_447.shtml

Here is a part of the article:

Quote
Grapefruit juice (GFJ to its friends), like all citrus, bursts with crucial nutrients like vitamins C and A, antioxidants and potassium. But if you’re on HIV meds, squeeze an orange, lemon, lime or tangerine instead of a grapefruit. GFJ jacks up bloodstream levels of some HIV meds—especially protease inhibitors—too quickly, increasing the potential for harmful side effects. An equal-opportunity booster, GFJ also increases levels of antihistamines and drugs for blood pressure, high cholesterol and anxiety.

HUGS,

Mark
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 19, 2010, 07:15:06 am
I have read what everyone has said about diets and things. I have noticed that no one has mentioned drinking grapefruit juice. I have given up Pepsi and drink plenty of grapefruit juice which I am told burns fat. It must be working because when I went home for a visit, everyone noticed the weight loss. Even security at the airport noticed it after looking at my ID and asked what did I do to lose.

I have never had a problem with BP and maybe that is because I don't eat salt at all. My problem is that I love red meat especially steak. But I have been eating more chicken and I don't fry my food anymore. I grill all of my meat on the Foreman grill. Plus I have always loved veggies except for beans.

What I need to do is figure out what exercises to do to tighten up my core area without going to the gym.
Well, I have tried grapefruit when I was in my mid to late teens and I did loose a lot of weight but I was also forced to eat three meals a day for I was in Summer College in an upstate college. It was like summer school boot camp for inner city kids.  Before then, I had free range of the refrigerator, eat anything I want at any time, and it showed.  I think with grapefruit, it acts like an appetite suppressant.   You just do not feel like eating anything else after a grapefruit drink or fruit. It could be the acidity after taste.  That and daily exercise like walking, jogging, calisthenics, swimming, etc adds to the energy/fat burning process.  Find an exercise that you feel comfortable with and like to do.  I like walking around the city so to see the sites, which adds to my daily routine.  However, weight training is the ultimate in the fat burning process for me.  One hour of lifting weights five times a week carefully monitored will, really buildup muscle mass and reduce fat tissue.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 19, 2010, 07:16:46 am
A lot of HIV meds react poorly with grapefruit Queen.
I know that is out there but check with your doctor first. I asked my doctor and she said that with Atripla it is not a problem.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 19, 2010, 07:38:03 am
A terrible thing happened, I have found several pictures of myself taken in June 2007 and I must have been 170 lbs.  Then I have found one picture of me in December 2007, the same year and I must of gain 50 pounds which makes my mass around 240 lbs.  In the June pictures, I was smiling, happy and slim, in the December picture, I was huge, and I hid my face.  :( Oh the shame of it all…  lol  Now its June of 2010, I am 200 lbs and have 30 more pounds to go.  Piece of cake…  (Sorry for the food reference)  I mean No Problem….
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 20, 2010, 07:24:30 am
I have reached the 200 lbs barrier.  I just weight myself and I am 199 lbs.  Great, now only 39 lbs to go.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Grinch on June 20, 2010, 09:45:58 am
I have reached the 200 lbs barrier.  I just weight myself and I am 199 lbs.  Great, now only 39 lbs to go.

I applaud your efforts.  Let me pose the following however.
You are losing weight at nearly double the recommended pace of 2 lbs per week.  This is the maximum that most physicians recommend.
Losing weight at a rapid pace usually involves significant muscle loss.
Muscle uses more energy measured in calories than fat to maintain its self.
This means loss of muscle actually hurts your progress after the initial water weight plateau.
The goal should be to increase your metabolism as well as reducing your intake of calories.

Is the number weight in lbs more important than your body shape and composition?
Skinny fat really is not a good look on anyone.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 21, 2010, 12:59:42 am
I agree and a bit worried.  This happen the last time, so I am not surprise, and then I thought the Aids was the problem.  I am seeing my Doctor in 2 weeks so i will ask her if I am in danger.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 23, 2010, 12:04:05 am
I have just went through all my pants and realize if I do get to a size 30" waist, out of the forty or so pants I still own, only one pants that is size 30".  I have like five 42", an ten 38" and ten 36" and fifteen 34".  My room for a while looked like a department store of jeans and slacks.  Well, I had my ups and downs but to see it in clothes is an eye opening-er.  I remember when I had to buy a size 50" pants.  I would not toss them for fear of the weight coming back, but maybe it is better to toss and keep to the diet.  Now my waist size is 40.  Yeah, I hate to admit but at least inches are going down.  Only 10" and 35 more pounds to go, maybe in 3 months.  I have to keep real goals.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 24, 2010, 06:08:59 am
Well, I am down to 194 lbs, which was somewhat fast.  I have hanged on to 199 lbs so long (four or five days), that I thought that where I was going to stay.  No real hunger to talk about, as compared to before; I would be raiding the refrigerator for a sandwich or something.  

Funny, but I had not had my "vitamin sugar" in the form of a cake, candy bar or bag of chips in a long time.  Before the diet, I thought I would die without such foods. (I guess that was the addiction talking) Now my breakfast is a tofu salad mixed with celery, olive oil with salt and pepper. My lunches are late, I have chicken with sour cream spinach, and I skip dinner.  

To myself, I am like a dying elephant, but whose body is turning into a buff lion.  I still compare the pics I had when I was slim (June 2007) to the recent big pics and I am amazed in the difference.  Mostly sadden but amazed.  This is like living an episode of "The Biggest Loser" without the gunshot trainers on my ass, the embarrassments and the hype.  I have started lifting weights and swimming, which it adds to my calorie burning and general well being.

I am just eating more responsibly and simply staying away from the bad foods to reach my goals.  It was hell in the beginning, but it is easier now.  Of course, at this point to lose is on thing; to keep off is another story and the real goal.  Heck, I am fifty-one this year and I must try to keep healthy by staying within my weight limit, lower my cholesterol and having a normal blood pressure.  

Besides the HIV in my system, everything is great.  Well, measurements are tomorrow and I hope to have lost (actually I know I have lost) an inch or more on the waist.  
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Queen Tokelove on June 24, 2010, 11:21:15 am
Ms. P--

Yes, I did notice the difference when I stopped drinking the Pepsi. But I was still continuing to lose when I was drinking the grapefruit juice. A gymrat told me that grapefruit juice burns fat. I tend to believe it because at the time, it was basically the only thing I was drinking with an occassional glass of water. Maybe hiking up and down the subway stairs prolly helped too. Who knows?

Now if I could lose this pouch from 3 C-sections, that would be lovely. I want to have a slim waist and a gangster booty.... ;D
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 24, 2010, 01:45:17 pm
Ms. P--

Now if I could lose this pouch from 3 C-sections, that would be lovely. I want to have a slim waist and a gangster booty.... ;D
;)  me too...  lol
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 25, 2010, 11:44:47 am
Well, it is measurement day and I have decreased in size, not that I am surprise, which means the diet is working.  My weight is now 195 lbs, a loss of 35 lbs since the doctor’s visit.  Now for the rest: the neck is still 15” unchanged; the chest is from 42” to 41”; the stomach is from 41” to 38”; the waist is from 42” to 39.5”; the butt is from 44” to 42”; the thigh is from 26.5” to 25” ( looking less like cottage cheese); the calf  is from  16.5” to 18”; and the bicep is unchanged.  I took pictures and I can see the different.  Now I have just two to three months to get to my goals of 160 lbs and stay there.  I may go vegan, but let’s not go crazy yet.  I have to find some vegan meals that I find suitable.  Onward and upward we go.  In this case, let’s stick with downward.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 25, 2010, 11:50:26 am
Ms. P--

Yes, I did notice the difference when I stopped drinking the Pepsi. But I was still continuing to lose when I was drinking the grapefruit juice. A gymrat told me that grapefruit juice burns fat. I tend to believe it because at the time, it was basically the only thing I was drinking with an occassional glass of water. Maybe hiking up and down the subway stairs prolly helped too. Who knows?

Now if I could lose this pouch from 3 C-sections, that would be lovely. I want to have a slim waist and a gangster booty.... ;D
I say grapefruit juice was your crutch and that you should switch to water with unsweetened lemon juice.  I do not think grapefruit juice burns fat, although it has less calories that sodas and fruit juices.  The water and unsweetened lemon juice has close to zero calories.  Exercise and a proper diet burns fat, not certain foods I think.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 26, 2010, 06:23:00 am
Another reason why I am trying to stay healthy.

Diabetes Responsible for 10% of Vascular Deaths
MedPage Today
Published: June 25, 2010
More than one in 10 heart disease deaths may be attributable to diabetes, researchers say.

In a meta-analysis of more than 100 studies, diabetes was associated with a twofold increased risk of the disease and was estimated to be accountable for 11% of vascular deaths, according to Nadeem Sarwar, MD, of the University of Cambridge in England, and colleagues.

They reported their findings online in The Lancet and will present them during an oral session at the American Diabetes Association meeting here.

"In this decade, about 10% of vascular deaths in populations in developed countries have been attributable to diabetes in adults, corresponding to an estimated 325,000 deaths per year in high-income countries alone," Sarwar and colleagues wrote.

"This burden will increase if the incidence of diabetes continues to rise, even if rates of vascular disease continue to fall because of decreases in smoking, improvements in treatment, or other reasons," they added.

There have been uncertainties about the magnitude of associations between heart disease risk and stroke, and diabetes and fasting glucose concentration.

So to quantify those associations for a wide range of circumstances, the researchers conducted a meta-analysis of individual risk factors in patients without vascular disease from studies in the Emerging Risk Factors Collaboration.

They included 698,782 patients in 102 prospective studies. The mean age was 52 and 43% were women, with the majority in Europe, North America, and Australia, and the remainder in Japan or the Caribbean.

A total of 7% of patients reported a history of diabetes at baseline.

Over the study periods, there were 52,765 nonfatal or fatal vascular outcomes.

The researchers found that patients with diabetes had around a twofold increased risk of heart disease, ischemic stroke, and other vascular deaths:

Coronary heart disease: HR 2.0, 95% CI 1.83 to 2.19
Ischemic stroke: HR 2.27, 95% CI 1.95 to 2.65
Hemorrhagic stroke: HR 1.56, 95% CI 1.19 to 2.05
Unclassified stroke: HR 1.84, 95% CI 1.59 to 2.13
Other vascular deaths: HR 1.73, 95% CI 1.51 to 1.98

The researchers said that risk was about a third higher for fatal than nonfatal myocardial infarction, "perhaps suggestive of more severe forms of coronary lesions in people with diabetes than those without, differential response of the myocardium to ischemia, or possibly in part, differential coding of deaths from coronary heart disease."

Risk of heart disease among diabetics was higher in women than in men, in patients ages 40 to 59 than those 70 and up, in nonsmokers than in smokers, and in those with below-average systolic blood pressure.

Risk of stroke was higher in women, the same younger age group, and in those with above average body mass index (BMI).

These findings, the researchers said, warrant further study.

Also, at an adult population-wide prevalence of 10%, diabetes was estimated to account for 11% of vascular deaths, they added.

Yet only moderate associations were found between impaired fasting glucose and risk of heart disease and stroke.

Fasting blood glucose concentration was non-linearly related to vascular risk, with no significant associations between 3.90 mmol/L and 5.59 mmol/L.

But risk of heart disease increased with increasing plasma glucose concentrations:

5.60 to 6.09 mmol/L: HR 1.11, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.18
6.10 to 6.99 mmol/L: HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.26

The researchers added that risk was "substantially higher" among those with concentrations of 7 mmol/L or higher.

The study was limited in that it may not be generalizable to patients in low- or middle-income countries.

In an accompanying commentary, Hertzel C. Gerstein, MD, of McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, said it remains unknown whether the spectrum of dysglycemia is causally related to cardiovascular outcomes.

Trials of glucose-lowering therapies have shown a modest reduction in myocardial infarction, but "the size of the effect strongly suggests that glucose is not the only player," he wrote. Others could include fatty acid and lipoprotein metabolism, visceral fat deposition, hepatic function, and renin-angiotensin, among others.

"Any or all of these factors (and others) might promote cardiovascular disease through various known and unknown mechanisms," Gerstein wrote. "Large, long-term clinical trials of insulin-replacement therapy, incretins, and other approaches targeting one or more of these abnormalities ... are certain to shed more light on the link between dysglycemia and serious outcomes."

The study was supported by the British Heart Foundation, the UK Medical Research Council, and Pfizer.

The researchers reported relationships with Denka, diaDexus, GlaxoSmithKline, Merck Sharp and Dohme, Novartis, Pfizer, and Roche.

Gerstein reported relationships with sanofi-aventis, GlaxoSmithKline, Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, AstraZeneca, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Roche, Medtronic, Merck, Bayer, Bioavail, and Janssen-Ortho.
 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 27, 2010, 08:35:03 am
The real reason for me losing all this weight is that even 10 lbs over weight is too much. Every day I see obese people, but I never looked in the mirror until this diet. Now I know that I am obese and I am committed to become slim. Just 30 to 35 lbs to go, which translated into 3 to 4 months. Just in time for Halloween.  lol
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on June 29, 2010, 01:13:52 am
I may have been over stating that 10 lbs is too much, while if I were just 10 lbs over weight, I would be happier.  That would mean just two weeks to get to my goal.  Staying on the Atkins for 37 days seems simple now, but there is still a chance to get off it.  Even when I am out, I feel either thursty which I can confuse with hungry.  I usually grab a shiskabob from a cart vendor and a bottle water.  That usually keeps my hungry at bay till I get home.

Also, I have been doing heavy weight training.  Now, my body demand more protien, which I do supply with chicken or beef.  I still have my two salads a day so there is my fiber.  I'm still shrinking in size and weight so once again I am waiting to reach my weight and size goal.  That is 160 lbs and  a 30" waist line.  That would be far from the past of 230 lbs and 50" waist line.  Yes, I will check with my doctor to make sure that my vital organs are not harmed in any way, shape or form. 

The finish line seems so far away, but I must remind myself that this race to a better body is worth the wait.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Queen Tokelove on June 30, 2010, 10:52:49 pm
I have found a workout that I can keep up with.....The Wii Fit. I started working out on it today. It has a lot of workout options, scale and BMI counter. The scale says I weigh in at 150, I use to weigh about 165. I guess changing my diet and cutting off the soda did cause me to lose some weight. I still say the grapefruit juice had something to do with it too....Yeah, I know wishful thinking on my part. The BMI counter thing says normal BMI is 22, mine was 26. Not too bad, I thought it was gonna be worse.

So wish me luck on becoming a lean, mean, ghetto Queen....hehe ;D
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 01, 2010, 05:39:09 am
I have found a workout that I can keep up with.....The Wii Fit. I started working out on it today. It has a lot of workout options, scale and BMI counter. The scale says I weigh in at 150, I use to weigh about 165. I guess changing my diet and cutting off the soda did cause me to lose some weight. I still say the grapefruit juice had something to do with it too....Yeah, I know wishful thinking on my part. The BMI counter thing says normal BMI is 22, mine was 26. Not too bad, I thought it was gonna be worse.

So wish me luck on becoming a lean, mean, ghetto Queen....hehe ;D
That's right,  YOU GO GIRL!!!   And congratulations on your efforts.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Queen Tokelove on July 01, 2010, 09:32:05 am
That's right,  YOU GO GIRL!!!   And congratulations on your efforts.

Thanks. I think I'll keep my efforts posted here since it seems like you and I are the only ones posting here now....lol
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 02, 2010, 12:08:01 pm
Thanks. I think I'll keep my efforts posted here since it seems like you and I are the only ones posting here now....lol
There are others reading this thread, so I'm hoopeful that this Biggest Losser thread will help others.
I did my measurements this morning and general I lost an inch in the buttocks area from 42" to 41".  With my new weight lifting workouts and diet, I am slowing getting to my goal.  I did cheat by having a gyro yesterday with everything for lunch, which included hot sauce, white sauce, and barbeque sauce.  My ketosis was down to moderate, but it went back up to large.  Now I see that my goal will be reach in two to three months at the latest.

The last time I did this diet, I lost the weight but I did not really notice it until I tried on a size 32" pants and fit them perfectly.  They were even a loose fit.  Now that I am keeping records in the form of pictures and measurement, I can see the difference. 

I wish everyone good luck in getting to your goals and keeping the weight off.


Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 02, 2010, 12:12:48 pm
To add, I will see my Doctor next week Friday and see if my blood test indicated any problems with my diet.  My main concerns are my kidneys an liver.  The blood test will show any abnormalities if any has occurred and the doctor will make recommendations I am sure.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Queen Tokelove on July 02, 2010, 03:15:14 pm
Folks may be doing more lurking than posting. I think it's just you and me, kid. But I'll keep posting my progress from time to time. I took a break today from the usual workout. I feel guilty about that but I am feeling the burn in a few places especially my legs and stomach. I'll probably jump on the Hoola Hoop game a little after dinner. If I don't do my usual workout, I atleast want to do something. Plus the Hoola Hoop games helps with my stomach area, my problem area.

For my height, 5'3, I am told I should weigh 125 but that just seems too skinny for me. So, I have made my target weight 140. Just to see how I look. Taking baby steps and shooting for 10 pounds. I don't have a measuring tape. I'll try to remember to get one while running errands tomorrow.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 04, 2010, 11:31:38 am
Folks may be doing more lurking than posting. I think it's just you and me, kid. But I'll keep posting my progress from time to time. I took a break today from the usual workout. I feel guilty about that but I am feeling the burn in a few places especially my legs and stomach. I'll probably jump on the Hoola Hoop game a little after dinner. If I don't do my usual workout, I atleast want to do something. Plus the Hoola Hoop games helps with my stomach area, my problem area.

For my height, 5'3, I am told I should weigh 125 but that just seems too skinny for me. So, I have made my target weight 140. Just to see how I look. Taking baby steps and shooting for 10 pounds. I don't have a measuring tape. I'll try to remember to get one while running errands tomorrow.
I understand the it maybe too skinny thing, for afterall, you want some junk in the trunk.  But remember, it is good health that is really the goal.  And if you do reach 125lbs and don't like it, you can always balance your weight so to maintain at 140lbs.

I  have been at 195lbs for five days, while I have been also reducing in size.  This is the point when my body is maintaining weight but losing fat.  Hopefully, by two week, I will be 190lbs.  

I still cannot believe that I had allowed myself to reach 230lbs and a waist size of 42”.  (OK, 48” ) Now when I look back, I feel Dam, why I did not do something sooner.  I think basically, I had stop looking in the mirror and hallucinated that I was in good if not great shape.  All the while, I was massive while in an unhealthy body.  

So, once again I am getting into smaller and smaller pants, while really noticing the change.  Actually, my smallest jean is slipping off my ass.  Ah, what a wonderful thing to happen.  Now to lose 35 lbs to a weight of 160lbs with a waist size of 30” and I will set my next goal to stay that weight limit.  

Grapefruit juice, as you mention, is great.  I think it also acts as an appetite suppressant.  I know when I drink it, the bitter taste and the funny feeling it puts in my stomach make me not want to eat for a while.  However, as long as it works out for you, all is good.  

I am walking more and trying to get my legs cured from the pulled groin, I have now self-diagnosis.  (I will insist my doctor to send me to see a specialist who can properly diagnose the groin problem area)  Imagine my doctor wanting to cut me up and have my hips replace for a torn muscle.  Thanks goodness I am too stubborn to follow the doctor's order.  I could be wrong and I may have arthritis, but I doubt it.  If it were arthritis, I would be in greater pain and less mobile.  

The goal is still for end of October, by Halloween, and then keeps it off.  Good luck to all.

Yours truly,

Red_Dragon888
 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 04, 2010, 11:36:52 am
P.S.   I think that people are interested in this link, and may just like to see our progress.  I hope more will input their progress.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Queen Tokelove on July 04, 2010, 01:38:51 pm
Since it is the holiday,I am going to take a break today. Then back to it on Monday. I have noticed that a lot of my pants that were tight fitting are now a little baggy on me. So, I must be doing something right. Instead of catching the bus and riding it to my destination, I got off a few blocks early just to walk. At this point, I'll take my exercise where I can get it. I remember not even being motivated enough to wanna walk anywhere.

I may have to drop to 125 just to find some pants that fit. Most of the clothing stores do not have clothes for women with junk in their trunk. It's frustrating to say the least. And if someone out there following this post is motivated to better their health that is a good thing. My oldest sister motivated me to exercise. That and I got tired of hearing myself whining about my weight... :D
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 06, 2010, 12:48:50 pm
Since it is the holiday,I am going to take a break today. Then back to it on Monday. I have noticed that a lot of my pants that were tight fitting are now a little baggy on me. So, I must be doing something right. Instead of catching the bus and riding it to my destination, I got off a few blocks early just to walk. At this point, I'll take my exercise where I can get it. I remember not even being motivated enough to wanna walk anywhere.

I may have to drop to 125 just to find some pants that fit. Most of the clothing stores do not have clothes for women with junk in their trunk. It's frustrating to say the least. And if someone out there following this post is motivated to better their health that is a good thing. My oldest sister motivated me to exercise. That and I got tired of hearing myself whining about my weight... :D
I am glad to hear that your clothes are not fitting, for to the point, my clothes are loose and I fear the day when I have to buy a new wardrobe.  That would mean 90%, if not 100%, of my old wardrobe had to go to charity or the trash. 

I have been looking around for clothes in various department stores when I finally reach a 30” waist.  Size small shirts, 30” pants and 38” suits, it’s like I going back in time in a slim guy’s body.  I do have these sizes ready to wear in storage just waiting for me the wear them. 

When it comes to walking, I am a waking guru.  The walks are getting better for I have found that if I wrap my thighs with ace-Band-Aid, there is no pain and walking is nicer. 

I must state that I use to blame the HIV medication for my steady weight gain, but it was me not trying to get in a program that would help me reach my goal of 160lbs without dying.  Atkins works for me and if I can just stay on program, the goal will be reach and I can stop hiding from the mirror.  My legs are the problem now, for they look like tree trunks.  Soon, my body will start to reduce the fat on the legs and torso and I will have the swimmer’s look that I am aiming for.   


My measurements are Friday and I expect to see at least a half-inch decrease on the torso and legs.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 08, 2010, 05:35:28 am
Well, it is another great day and I weight now 189lbs.  Great news except that I did not anticipate to get to this weight for two weeks which means I lost four pounds in a day. (A very hot day where I am from) Well, I did work out and skipped dinner because it was late and I hate to eat and take meds just before bedtime.  Luckily, I am seeing my Doctor today and she can tell me if everything is all right with my body.  My main concerns are my kidneys and liver functions for I may have been over working them.  Every time I lose weight, I fear for the worst since in years past, weights lost meant you are dying of Aids.  That Aids dilemma will always come to my mind; however, with proper medical guidance, I still feel I can look and feel healthy in my weight goal of 160lbs, which would be satisfactory for my height of 5’8”.  I hope others are doing well in the battle of the weight control and dieting.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 08, 2010, 05:55:09 am
I also stop drinking alcohol since yesterday for Atkins says it acts like a carbohydrate, which will increase insulin levels and turn into fat, so I am eliminating that from my diet.  This may have been the reason why I have been slowly losing weight for I have been drinking wine and vodka on the regular since Gay Pride Day.  I am not happy about giving up my one of my sinful pleasure but I will comply until I reach my weight goal. 

I cannot wait to reach 180lbs for that means I will be a 34" waist or close to a 32" waist.  Right now, my waist size is 39".  Now I have just 7" and 30lbs to go, which is better than the start of 14" and 70lbs. At least, I know what I look like when I am 30lbs off my weight goal.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Queen Tokelove on July 08, 2010, 01:32:25 pm
Due to the recent heatwave over here, I could not get a good workout in, it was just too hot. Today, it has cooled down and I am at my bf's house. He has an AB-rocker so I am going to start using that when I am at his house. I have also started using Hydroxy cut, I think it is called. You mix it with water and drink it but it can only be used twice a day. I think I am seeing some improvements in my waist. I look more curvy but I just have to beat down this pouch I have from 3 C-sections. I mean even that has gone down but I just basically need to tone it up, that's where the AB-rocker comes in.

I know about those sinful pleasures. I have decided today that I need to cut back on toking the good green. Not that I am having any issues just that I have noticed that I am toking a lil too much. And since things are now stress free in my life, I think it is time for me to stop smoking. I had a good success rate the last time but I just started back up due to stressful things that were going on.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 08, 2010, 05:44:52 pm
Due to the recent heatwave over here, I could not get a good workout in, it was just too hot. Today, it has cooled down and I am at my bf's house. He has an AB-rocker so I am going to start using that when I am at his house. I have also started using Hydroxy cut, I think it is called. You mix it with water and drink it but it can only be used twice a day. I think I am seeing some improvements in my waist. I look more curvy but I just have to beat down this pouch I have from 3 C-sections. I mean even that has gone down but I just basically need to tone it up, that's where the AB-rocker comes in.

I know about those sinful pleasures. I have decided today that I need to cut back on toking the good green. Not that I am having any issues just that I have noticed that I am toking a lil too much. And since things are now stress free in my life, I think it is time for me to stop smoking. I had a good success rate the last time but I just started back up due to stressful things that were going on.
No matter how good the “good green” is, and I know the feeling, it still maybe best to hold off until you reach your goal of loosing the pouch.  The “good green” tends to make one less active, hungrier, which does not burns calories, unless you consider lying around goring yourself while enjoying the hallucinating experience an exercise.

I am not too keen on diet drinks or products for I am loosing the weight and the Atkins’ Diet method is working well.  They all advertise you may never lose the weight unless you use their products.  However, I hope it works for you. (Note of caution: some product can harm the kidneys or liver so check the web for information and make sure your doctor check your vitals) Today, lethargic feelings, physically and mentally, hence part of my mind wanted to eat anything with sugar in it to eradicate the sensations. To combat this dilemma, I took a catnap for an hour, which was refreshing.  The raining weather may have amplified the mood. 

How I hate the thought that I may not have a piece of chocolate cake ever again, but one slice would put a couple pounds or kilos back on the body, and I worked too hard to get to a swimmer build.  It is a mind set to eat like my ancestors did 400 years ago, before sugar and grains, to stay lean. 

Right now, I have a bulge on my midsection and I cannot wait to get it off.  My mind, playing tricks, wants me think that the inches lost will not matter; however, when I compare a size small shirt with a size large or a 30” pants with a 40” pant, one can see that there is a big difference.  I guess I find it hard to believe that I have a small frame hiding in a mass of fat; well, I just have to deal with it and have a “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” point of view when I get to my goal.

Oh, I saw my doctor today and she finds my vitals are in excellent condition.  My viral load, “VL”, is “undetectable” and my “CD4” is in the range of 600.  She is worried that my CD4 is fluctuating, which maybe due to lab error, so she wants another blood test in six weeks.  My liver and kidneys vitals are also in the good range. 

I hope others are able to have a good healthy diet and I would like to hear if anyone is on “Jenny Craig,” the “Hollywood Diet,” “Nutrisystem”…etc.  Good heath, Good Dieting and have a Good Day.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 11, 2010, 10:29:16 pm
It has been a while but I, again, just went through all my pants.  I have a total of 25 and only two are size 32".  The rest are eight 36", six 34", seven 38" and two 40".  The 40's, and 38's are easy to fit into, but I still have some time to fit into the 36's.   Time will tell if I will ever reach 32".

I am amazed that I once fit in the 32" and still had room.  Now my waist is 39" and I hope in three to four weeks at most to reach that size again.  Yes, that is a bit over ambitious, it just I am a bit anxious to lose the weight. 

I am now down to two meals a day, (chicken or some meat and a salad) and I am not hungry to eat more.  I had a sugar attack again today, but it turns out that I was just fatigue and I took a nap to rest and the attack went away. 

I hope others, if they are on a diet, are having great success in getting to their goals.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Queen Tokelove on July 12, 2010, 03:06:59 pm
Actually, I have been doing good despite my toking. I don't have any sweets around when I have the munchies. I have been buying things for salads, eating veggies or eating fruit. And yes, I use to just sit around when I toke but what I do now is exercise before I toke.

Glad to hear that you labs turned out good. Keep up the good work. You're working for a swimmer's build huh? I am not trying to go to that extreme but just get rid of this gut and tone up a lil. I assume you have a time frame for this weight loss? Myself, not so much, I just know that with exercise and change of diet I will shed some pounds. I have already but I just want to motivate myself to exercise to stay in good health. Does that make sense? I know it will make a big difference with my diabetes though I have never had really really high sugars like some people in my family. Theirs tended to be in the 5-600 range. And with exercise and diet I think I can maintain mine. Time will tell once I make my way to a doctor.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 12, 2010, 06:31:13 pm
I am glad to hear that you are still making progress.  All you have to do is keep the sweets away and do not be tempted by the eating.  I myself had a dream last night that I eat a chocolate Easter egg and tried to spit out the candy before I had swollen it.  Wow, nightmare by candy. 

Thank for the congratulations for the labs.  I am happy that it all looked OK, and even my blood sugar levels were fine, which was surprising to me.  There is diabetes in my family too so I am worried that I might becomes one if I do not watch my health. 

Yes, I have a time line but I am not worried for I want a swimmer's body for next year but I will maintain it all winter long as a means to ensure that I will not back track to the old habits of eating. 

Good health is the first priority and then comes the diet, for after all, who wants to be thin and sick.   (That what models are for)  Luckily, when one has good health that is all icing on the cake; pardon the food pun. 

Well, take care and good luck.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 16, 2010, 04:57:13 am
Ready or not, here is my measurement for the week.  I have decided to focus on the waist and the weight for they are what matters.  The waist is 37.75" and the weight is 186lbs.  I am averaging one inch a week so to reach 30" will take to September mid-month.  I am happy with the results and now I know what I look like 25lbs over my goal.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 16, 2010, 05:17:26 am
Ready or not, here is my measurement for the week.  I have decided to focus on the waist and the weight for they are what matters.  The waist is 37.75" and the weight is 186lbs.  I am averaging one inch a week so to reach 30" will take to September mid-month.  I am happy with the results and now I know what I look like 25lbs over my goal.
I am also averging 4lbs a week.  If this holds up, then by September 10th, eight weeks, I will be 130lbs, my goal weight.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: elf on July 16, 2010, 05:46:08 am
Eating normally (avoiding sweets) but going jogging every day for 80 minutes. My route is 13 km /8.1 miles long. :)
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: David_CA on July 16, 2010, 11:27:47 am
It's all about balance...  too much fat / calories in and not enough out.  I see no reason to cut out healthy foods because they contain starch when all I need to do is exercise and cut down (or cut out) on some of the not-so-healthy things that I consume. 

I generally go to the gym every day before work and do 30 minutes of cardio.  I also go twice a week after work and work out.  If I don't have time in the morning, I go for a walk.  On weekends, I get exercise from projects, working in the yard, etc.  The point is that I increase the number of calories I burn and try to moderate some of the foods that I eat.  Sure, I'll eat pizza, fries, a burger, whatever, but just not every day (or every other day).  If a gym wasn't an option due to location, finances, or whatever, I'd have to find something else to do.  For about 13 years, I used a stair-stepper machine at home.  Besides helping keep me at a decent weight, I'm healthier due to the exercise, look better, and feel better.  Our bodies are designed for a balanced diet and a fair amount of exercise, but most of us are off balance on one or both of these.

On a side note... I take Atripla in the mornings.  Granted, Adderall helps some of the 'brain fog', but I still don't truly feel awake until I exercise. 

Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 17, 2010, 08:49:29 am
It's all about balance...  too much fat / calories in and not enough out.  I see no reason to cut out healthy foods because they contain starch when all I need to do is exercise and cut down (or cut out) on some of the not-so-healthy things that I consume. 

I generally go to the gym every day before work and do 30 minutes of cardio.  I also go twice a week after work and work out.  If I don't have time in the morning, I go for a walk.  On weekends, I get exercise from projects, working in the yard, etc.  The point is that I increase the number of calories I burn and try to moderate some of the foods that I eat.  Sure, I'll eat pizza, fries, a burger, whatever, but just not every day (or every other day).  If a gym wasn't an option due to location, finances, or whatever, I'd have to find something else to do.  For about 13 years, I used a stair-stepper machine at home.  Besides helping keep me at a decent weight, I'm healthier due to the exercise, look better, and feel better.  Our bodies are designed for a balanced diet and a fair amount of exercise, but most of us are off balance on one or both of these.

On a side note... I take Atripla in the mornings.  Granted, Adderall helps some of the 'brain fog', but I still don't truly feel awake until I exercise. 


It is all about balance, but I have to get within five pounds of my weight goal, which is one hundred and sixty pounds.  Once I have that, then I can see what foods I can eat and what exercise plan I can follow to maintain my desired body form.  I have been there once, and I plan to get there again.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: David_CA on July 17, 2010, 11:05:14 am
I read an article recently, though I'll have to look to find it, about quick vs slow weight loss and the ability to maintain that loss long-term.  It was not surprising to me that the studies that showed moderate dieting plus exercise often took a couple of years (to get to the desired weight).  Diets such at South Beach and Atkins yielded much faster results, but most subjects experienced rebound due to the unrealistic restrictions of those diets (primarily Atkins).  Diets such as Weight Watchers, which are attempting to moderate most types of foods, while educating, were much more successful.  The diets that had the best long-term success and overall health results were those which moderated intake of less than desirable foods while adding exercise.  It kind of reminds me of that old story of the tortoise and the hare... slow and steady.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 17, 2010, 10:21:52 pm
I read an article recently, though I'll have to look to find it, about quick vs slow weight loss and the ability to maintain that loss long-term.  It was not surprising to me that the studies that showed moderate dieting plus exercise often took a couple of years (to get to the desired weight).  Diets such at South Beach and Atkins yielded much faster results, but most subjects experienced rebound due to the unrealistic restrictions of those diets (primarily Atkins).  Diets such as Weight Watchers, which are attempting to moderate most types of foods, while educating, were much more successful.  The diets that had the best long-term success and overall health results were those which moderated intake of less than desirable foods while adding exercise.  It kind of reminds me of that old story of the tortoise and the hare... slow and steady.
Atkins is like the Military Boot Camp way of losing weight but I hope while I keep track this thread, and at home, I will be better able to not rebound and hence stay in my goal.  Besides, don't believe everything you read especially off the web.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 17, 2010, 10:24:11 pm
It is also the case of "comparing  apples with oranges,"  esp. if you do not have all the facts. 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: David_CA on July 17, 2010, 10:58:46 pm
Atkins is like the Military Boot Camp way of losing weight but I hope while I keep track this thread, and at home, I will be better able to not rebound and hence stay in my goal.  Besides, don't believe everything you read especially off the web.

What I mentioned about long-term 'sensible' diets vs what are considered 'fad' diets seems like common sense to me.  We should exercise more and eat what we're supposed to, not cut out most of an entire class of foods.  Most people I know who have done Atkins have not maintained their weight loss.  Did you lose the weight you mentioned with Atkins or something else?  I think that the high failure rates are due to the difficulty of long-term compliance.

While I'm not losing a lot of weight currently, I am putting on muscle.  When I miss a few workout days at the gym due to being out of town, my weight drops a bit because I still get a fair amount of exercise without gaining muscle.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 18, 2010, 11:05:17 am
What I mentioned about long-term 'sensible' diets vs what are considered 'fad' diets seems like common sense to me.  We should exercise more and eat what we're supposed to, not cut out most of an entire class of foods.  Most people I know who have done Atkins have not maintained their weight loss.  Did you lose the weight you mentioned with Atkins or something else?  I think that the high failure rates are due to the difficulty of long-term compliance.

While I'm not losing a lot of weight currently, I am putting on muscle.  When I miss a few workout days at the gym due to being out of town, my weight drops a bit because I still get a fair amount of exercise without gaining muscle.
i know people who had great success with atkins and they do not need to advertise.  in time we shall see.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: David_CA on July 18, 2010, 06:05:52 pm
i know people who had great success with atkins and they do not need to advertise.  in time we shall see.

I know a bunch, too.  They were successful... until their weight came back.  Before that, they were always hungry.  Me, I'll just eat (mostly) what I want and exercise.   ;)   Good luck to you!
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 20, 2010, 06:42:52 am
I know a bunch, too.  They were successful... until their weight came back.  Before that, they were always hungry.  Me, I'll just eat (mostly) what I want and exercise.   ;)   Good luck to you!
Well, I pretty much have the shape of you and I like it.  At least, of the picture you have up on the forum.  

My weight came back because I took shortcuts, allowed someone to convince me that I looked too thin, I felt too thin and my legs looked like sticks, I had feared that HIV was the real reason for my thinness, and/or I just stop the Atkins diet for I thought I was thin and I did not need the diet anymore.  Hence, I went to 230lbs in a couple of months.

Now I know I have sensitivity to sugar and certain foods so I must watch what I eat.  My legs look less like cottage cheese and more like American cheese.  My stomach looks good (a little ripple is showing) and I feel I need to lose just ten more pounds to be happy, but I rather lose twenty-five more just to see what I would look like.

I too, "Me, I'll just eat (mostly) what I want and exercise," but what I eat is more conducive to not make me gain weight.  I still may have a piece of cake (sugar free) on New Years, but I ain't worried about it.  My favorite treat is cold chocolate milk.  It is made without sugar and tastes good.  I also have been working out hard at the gym, so I am also building muscle as well as losing fat.

Thanks for caring and good luck to you too.   :)
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 22, 2010, 02:07:58 am
I am at the point that I am not losing weight, but I am getting shapely.  I guess the muscle/fat ratio is equalizing with the fat reducing in mass while the muscle is raising in mass.  Still, I just hope that have a "six pack" so I can go shirtless and feel sexy before winter.  ;) 

The cold chocolate milk treat I'd mentioned before is really cocoa with heavy cream, crushed ice and water.  I never knew that cocoa could taste so good without sugar.  Now if I can make a cocoa cake without sugar and like it, that would be great.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: bocker3 on July 22, 2010, 08:03:28 am
but what I eat is more conducive to not make me gain weight.

It's not "WHAT" you eat that causes one to gain weight -- it's the "AMOUNT" of it that does.  Of course eating fruit over french fries is a good thing -- but french fries, on occasion won't cause weight gain.
I've been using Weight Watchers and continue to eat mostly the same foods I always have -- just less.  Guess what -- 9 weeks in -- I'm down 23.8 lbs.  This approach is far more sustainable for me, because nothing is "forbidden" -- which would just make me want it.

Good luck,

Mike
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: NycJoe on July 22, 2010, 06:33:31 pm
I am also on a sensible diet.  Sensible in that it does not eliminate ANYTHING from my diet.  I can have carbs, fats, you name it.  It is ALL about moderation.  As Bocker mentioned, french fries are not evil.  Eating them every day and in great quantity is.  For me, I eat right 5-6 days a week then I have my "free" day or two where i eat what I want.  I have lost 15 pounds like this in a month and will continue to do so.  I do the treadmill every day for 30 minutes in addition.  If you tell your body that you can't have this or that, that is ALL it's going to want.  LOL  Trust me, I know and have been there.  I look forward to Saturday when I can have pancakes for breakfast and a burger for dinner.  Just keep moving!  That is the key.

Joe
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 23, 2010, 12:17:43 am
It's not "WHAT" you eat that causes one to gain weight -- it's the "AMOUNT" of it that does.  Of course eating fruit over french fries is a good thing -- but french fries, on occasion won't cause weight gain.
I've been using Weight Watchers and continue to eat mostly the same foods I always have -- just less.  Guess what -- 9 weeks in -- I'm down 23.8 lbs.  This approach is far more sustainable for me, because nothing is "forbidden" -- which would just make me want it.

Good luck,

Mike
I do not disagree with your statement, "It's not "WHAT" you eat that causes one to gain weight -- it's the "AMOUNT" of it that does;" however, and this is a my opinion, what I eat may cause weight gain.  I can only assume that your metabolism is different for my own, so it is again comparing "apples with oranges."  (yeah, apples and oranges my make me gain weight if I am not careful)  I am glad that Weight Watchers works for you. My it keep working until you reach your ideal weight or size.

P.S.  If I workout like five hours a day, eating would not be a problem.  Of course, it depends on the workout.  I feel like dancing.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 23, 2010, 12:20:07 am
I am also on a sensible diet.  Sensible in that it does not eliminate ANYTHING from my diet.  I can have carbs, fats, you name it.  It is ALL about moderation.  As Bocker mentioned, french fries are not evil.  Eating them every day and in great quantity is.  For me, I eat right 5-6 days a week then I have my "free" day or two where i eat what I want.  I have lost 15 pounds like this in a month and will continue to do so.  I do the treadmill every day for 30 minutes in addition.  If you tell your body that you can't have this or that, that is ALL it's going to want.  LOL  Trust me, I know and have been there.  I look forward to Saturday when I can have pancakes for breakfast and a burger for dinner.  Just keep moving!  That is the key.

Joe
Yes, exercise is also helpful in gaining muscle and losing fat.  Congratulations on your success.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 23, 2010, 06:36:26 am
I am not happy with measurement day, but I did lose half an inch on the waist, and lost 1 pound to 185lbs.  Now I am thinking that there are the days of my really discontent.  It is the season of the last angry few inches.  The last eight inches will be the longest and the last 25lbs also.  As long as I am making progress, it is just a waiting game.  

I have a new book on weight training called, "Strength Training, The complete step-by-step guide to a stronger, sculpted body," ISBN 978-0-7566--5447-4.  It's a really good book with illustration details of the muscle areas and different level guides for working out.  I just skipped to the weight training part and will start it this week at the gym.

My projection of my goal is for mid-September, and again, I just have to wait and do what I have to do to meet my goal.  It feels like a tumultuous task, but I am willing an able.  I hope others are doing just as well.  Have a great day.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: bocker3 on July 23, 2010, 07:56:08 am
I do not disagree with your statement, "It's not "WHAT" you eat that causes one to gain weight -- it's the "AMOUNT" of it that does;" however

But you do, Blanche, you do disagree.............

and this is a my opinion, what I eat may cause weight gain.

Again, I will state a fact (a fact that really can't be ignored) -- the food doesn't cause weight gain -- it's the calories that cause weight gain -- well the excess calories.  A calorie is a calorie -- whether from a cube of refined sugar or from a leaf of lettuce.

I'm happy for you and your success -- and hope it continues, but I also know how desperate some folks are for the "easy solution" to weight and I think it's important that they keep hearing the truth -- burn more calories than you eat and you will lose weight -- no matter the type of food you put in your mouth.

Mike
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: NycJoe on July 23, 2010, 09:20:51 am
Isn't that the truth.  My doctor told me I could eat a hot fudge sundae and donuts every day and as long as I burned MORE calories then I took in I would still lose.  Of course I wouldn't be getting all the  nutrients I need but you get my drift.  Calorie deficit to lose weight.  Case closed.  Now doing a low carb or some kind of diet like that may take it off faster, but it can not be maintained.  Moderation people!  I had McD's fries last saturday and still lost 2 pounds this week.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 23, 2010, 03:02:07 pm
But you do, Blanche, you do disagree.............

Again, I will state a fact (a fact that really can't be ignored) -- the food doesn't cause weight gain -- it's the calories that cause weight gain -- well the excess calories.  A calorie is a calorie -- whether from a cube of refined sugar or from a leaf of lettuce.

I'm happy for you and your success -- and hope it continues, but I also know how desperate some folks are for the "easy solution" to weight and I think it's important that they keep hearing the truth -- burn more calories than you eat and you will lose weight -- no matter the type of food you put in your mouth.

Mike
Ignorants is truly bliss for she who does not know exposes her intelligence. May I ask one question before I prove how ignorant I am, where do you get your facts from.  I guess from the book of knowledge listed under "make it up as I go along guide." lol  Sorry, but I do have my moments of joviality.

I figure you are lashing out at me for your own reasons.  Simply put, you have your guide and I have mine.  Let's just agree to disagree. BTW, I am burning calories and I am eating what I think will help me get to my goal weight and I have read "The Atkins Revolution Diet," cover to cover and I am betting you just found facts on the web for your arguments.  As for your insinuation of a "bad diet,"  you have failed to convince me what makes it a "bad diet."  I eat lettuce, tomato, and beef, and chicken and cucumber, ( ha, made yu say cum)   ;D and avocado, and egg, and shrimp and onions, and garlic and lamb chops, and hamburgers, and cheese and ... yes, I eat different proteins and low carbohydrates, but I seriously limit my high carbohydrates intake and I exercise to add to the mix.  How is that bad?  Is it that you can't have your "cake and eat it too?"  Pardon the PUN.  ;)  (ha, made you say pun)  ;D

Oh... sorry, I just realize that I just wished it away and therefore I am thin.   So there.  :D

PS I get it.  "Food don't causes fat." The world is flat, the sun circles the earth and "dish ran away with the spoon." lol Get over it.   8)
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 23, 2010, 03:11:13 pm
Isn't that the truth.  My doctor told me I could eat a hot fudge sundae and donuts every day and as long as I burned MORE calories then I took in I would still lose.  Of course I wouldn't be getting all the  nutrients I need but you get my drift.  Calorie deficit to lose weight.  Case closed.  Now doing a low carb or some kind of diet like that may take it off faster, but it can not be maintained.  Moderation people!  I had McD's fries last saturday and still lost 2 pounds this week.
Please be warn that you eat at McD's at your own risk.  Did you ever see the video of the workers taking a bath where they clean the cooking utensils.  lol  Again, "if you can't handle the heat, stay the HELL out of the kitchen."  I never said it was a popular diet, for even I, way back when, was very questionable in giving up my treats which were my mainstay of life.  I was a whole cake a day man myself, with a bag of potato chips, a liter of soda and cookies just in case the sugar levels get low and the always get low.  Heck, I thought that sugar was a missing vitamin. 

No doubt, I will have my treats when I meet my weight goal, but by then I will know what will help me maintain my weight and what amount will blow me up again, but thanks for yur concern.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on July 23, 2010, 03:18:14 pm
A whole cake in one day?  I have a difficult time eating one slice in one sitting, the icing is so rich.  I can also make a pint of ice cream last three weeks.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 23, 2010, 03:22:51 pm
But you do, Blanche, you do disagree.............

Again, I will state a fact (a fact that really can't be ignored) -- the food doesn't cause weight gain -- it's the calories that cause weight gain -- well the excess calories.  A calorie is a calorie -- whether from a cube of refined sugar or from a leaf of lettuce.

eating a pound of chocolate cake is not the same as eating  a pound of lettuce.  you mean to say that the pound of cake calories intake are the same as the lettuce calorie intake?  I think not.  Besides, when I say food and you insist I should say calories, then "my back."   Later on there will be a class on how the molecular structure of the atom can affect the biological factors of the metabolic system of the human body.  Please have your text and notebooks ready for there will be an exam after the class.   :D  
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 23, 2010, 03:26:27 pm
A whole cake in one day?  I have a difficult time eating one slice in one sitting, the icing is so rich.  I can also make a pint of ice cream last three weeks.
Dam, I forgot that I always had cake with ice cream. That is right, a half a gallon in two days. yes, my sweet tooth has no bounds.  Hi, my name is red_Dragon888 and I am a Sugar Addict.  Sweets are my kryptonite.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: bocker3 on July 23, 2010, 04:40:06 pm
eating a pound of chocolate cake is not the same as eating  a pound of lettuce.  you mean to say that the pound of cake calories intake are the same as the lettuce calorie intake?  I think not.  Besides, when I say food and you insist I should say calories, then "my back."   Later on there will be a class on how the molecular structure of the atom can affect the biological factors of the metabolic system of the human body.  Please have your text and notebooks ready for there will be an exam after the class.   :D  

Darling -- read what I wrote than talk to me about ignorance -- A calorie is a calorie no matter where it came from.  Now, of course there are more calories in a pound of chocolate cake than in a pound of lettuce.  Again, I was pointing out that it isn't about the food type -- it's about the calories.  The body uses (or stores) these calories the same way.  I am not making this up as I go along sunshine -- I have a medical background with a couple of degrees to go with it, so can your smugness. 

Now -- I am not lashing out at you (prior paragraph excluded, as it was a bit of a lash) -- I am happy as can be that your approach is working for you.  I have and will continue to wish you success in it.  I am simply trying to insure that you don't misinform others that it's the food that matters -- it doesn't, it's the calories in vs. the calories burned.  It's quite simple math.  One can have a poor diet, nutritionally, and still lose weight if they burn more than they eat.  Deny it all you want, but the math will speak for itself.

Mike
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 24, 2010, 11:42:52 am
Darling -- read what I wrote than talk to me about ignorance -- A calorie is a calorie no matter where it came from.  Now, of course there are more calories in a pound of chocolate cake than in a pound of lettuce.  Again, I was pointing out that it isn't about the food type -- it's about the calories.  The body uses (or stores) these calories the same way.  I am not making this up as I go along sunshine -- I have a medical background with a couple of degrees to go with it, so can your smugness. 

Now -- I am not lashing out at you (prior paragraph excluded, as it was a bit of a lash) -- I am happy as can be that your approach is working for you.  I have and will continue to wish you success in it.  I am simply trying to insure that you don't misinform others that it's the food that matters -- it doesn't, it's the calories in vs. the calories burned.  It's quite simple math.  One can have a poor diet, nutritionally, and still lose weight if they burn more than they eat.  Deny it all you want, but the math will speak for itself.

Mike
Dear Sweetheart,
I am just playing and letting you explain your point of view.  As for your credentials, I find the smartest people can be the dumbest. (present company excluded of course, maybe) lol 

You just caught me in a joking mood and I, like you, am just helping us to make a stronger point.  I am sure that others who read this will find the argument interesting and enlightening.  Oh yes, the math will speak for itself, that we both agree on.  Besides, Atkins is agreeing with your view.  How odd?  Did you read his book I wonder?   ;)

Take care.

Yours,

red_Dragon888
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: bocker3 on July 24, 2010, 12:33:35 pm
Dear Sweetheart,
I am just playing and letting you explain your point of view.  As for your credentials, I find the smartest people can be the dumbest. (present company excluded of course, maybe) lol 

You just caught me in a joking mood and I, like you, am just helping us to make a stronger point.  I am sure that others who read this will find the argument interesting and enlightening.  Oh yes, the math will speak for itself, that we both agree on.  Besides, Atkins is agreeing with your view.  How odd?  Did you read his book I wonder?   ;)

Take care.

Yours,

red_Dragon888

Yes, I did read Atkins -- and I tried his diet.  The day I realized that I had eaten too many vegetables and couldn't eat any more, but COULD consume more bacon or eggs, I decided that this wasn't for me. 
I don't argue this approaches ability to succeed in removing weight, but from a nutritional standpoint, limiting vegetables and avoiding fruit in favor of meat seems a little off-kilter.

Again -- I wish you success.

Mike
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: aztecan on July 24, 2010, 03:40:56 pm
Well, I am still at 175 pounds,  well, 175.1 pounds. Don't you just love digital scales! ::)

I am still aiming at 10 more pounds, but even five would not make me unhappy. I think, at 5'11'' , I can probably carry 170 pounds pretty well.

Mediterranean diet, anyone?

HUGS,

Mark

Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Queen Tokelove on July 24, 2010, 06:32:54 pm
I am still working out. I lost a few pounds and my BMI showed it as well. I am down to 146. I am noticing that it doesn't take much to fill me up. I just found a measuring tape with this sewing kit I forgot I had. I will take my measurements later. Just wanted to update is all.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 28, 2010, 04:55:37 pm
Yes, I did read Atkins -- and I tried his diet.  The day I realized that I had eaten too many vegetables and couldn't eat any more, but COULD consume more bacon or eggs, I decided that this wasn't for me.  
I don't argue this approaches ability to succeed in removing weight, but from a nutritional standpoint, limiting vegetables and avoiding fruit in favor of meat seems a little off-kilter.

Again -- I wish you success.

Mike
Yeah, you read Atkins with the eyes behind your head.  

Sorry for being a bit flippant, but I agree that I would not consume what Atkins infers, which I thinks was a slight exaggeration of his diet plan, but I would eat my choice of foods if my cholesterol was within a safe limit.  Besides, as the old saying goes, "too much of anything is bad for you."  lol  

So you are on the Jenny Craig diet and you have found that more to your liking.  Good for you, although I do not see the difference is either diet.  In my case, less equals more, however, you must agree that from my point of view it works because of my particular biochemistry.    

How do you explain insulin process in the human body?  Do you agree that insulin causes the body to produce fat tissue?

The Red Dargon....
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on July 28, 2010, 05:07:25 pm
I am still working out. I lost a few pounds and my BMI showed it as well. I am down to 146. I am noticing that it doesn't take much to fill me up. I just found a measuring tape with this sewing kit I forgot I had. I will take my measurements later. Just wanted to update is all.
I have change workout programs and it looks like it will help me get that muscular body I am seeking.  My legs are no longer cottage cheese, or American cheese, but cream cheese and I think they are the last to go in my weight lost study.  When I can fit in my skinny pants then I know that I am at my weight goal, which happen the last time I had lost weight.  I just kept wearing smaller pants until I was at my skinnest.

My stomach has shrunk also, so small meals are a necessary part of my diet plan.  And I notice that my pouch and my ass is getting smaller every week which makes me very happy.  It still looks like by mid to end of September I will be 160lbs or there abouts, but most definitely by November.  Just two months and then a lifetime of keeping fit. 

Red
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: bocker3 on July 29, 2010, 08:18:05 pm
Yeah, you read Atkins with the eyes behind your head.  

Sorry for being a bit flippant, but I agree that I would not consume what Atkins infers, which I thinks was a slight exaggeration of his diet plan, but I would eat my choice of foods if my cholesterol was within a safe limit.  Besides, as the old saying goes, "too much of anything is bad for you."  lol  

So you are on the Jenny Craig diet and you have found that more to your liking.  Good for you, although I do not see the difference is either diet.  In my case, less equals more, however, you must agree that from my point of view it works because of my particular biochemistry.    

How do you explain insulin process in the human body?  Do you agree that insulin causes the body to produce fat tissue?

The Red Dargon....

No, I'm doing Weight Watchers, not Jenny Craig.  I can eat whatever food I please -- so long as I stay within my point range (you get so many points per day based on things like weight, sex, age and work (less for sit down jobs, more for construction worker)).  Points are based on calories, fat and fiber.  Just as my diet, your diet is being successful because you are burning more calories than you are taking in -- your biochemistry is not likely any different from mine -- unless you have some metabolic issue.  I keep saying it -- less in, more burned will equal weight loss, no matter what you are eating.  Good nutrition is a different story -- one should strive for good nutrition, but even if non-nutritious food makes up your entire diet, you will lose weight if you eat less of it than you burn.

No I do not agree that insulin causes the body to produce fat tissue.  That is simply incorrect.  Insulin helps the body metabolize glucose.  It's takes the glucose and stores it as glycogen.  The only connection to fat is that in the absence of glycogen as a fuel source, your body turns to burning fat.  One of the reason one sees a large bit of weight loss in the first week or two of a diet is that you are storing less glycogen, due to less food being eaten.  Glycogen causes muscles to retain water, ergo -- less glycogen equals less water which equals less weight.  Additionally, less glycogen means more use of fat as fuel.

The science is quite simple and Atkins can say all he wants, but the body works, basically the same way for all.

Mike
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 01, 2010, 08:16:43 am
No, I'm doing Weight Watchers, not Jenny Craig.  I can eat whatever food I please -- so long as I stay within my point range (you get so many points per day based on things like weight, sex, age and work (less for sit down jobs, more for construction worker)).  Points are based on calories, fat and fiber.  Just as my diet, your diet is being successful because you are burning more calories than you are taking in -- your biochemistry is not likely any different from mine -- unless you have some metabolic issue.  I keep saying it -- less in, more burned will equal weight loss, no matter what you are eating.  Good nutrition is a different story -- one should strive for good nutrition, but even if non-nutritious food makes up your entire diet, you will lose weight if you eat less of it than you burn.

No I do not agree that insulin causes the body to produce fat tissue.  That is simply incorrect.  Insulin helps the body metabolize glucose.  It's takes the glucose and stores it as glycogen.  The only connection to fat is that in the absence of glycogen as a fuel source, your body turns to burning fat.  One of the reason one sees a large bit of weight loss in the first week or two of a diet is that you are storing less glycogen, due to less food being eaten.  Glycogen causes muscles to retain water, ergo -- less glycogen equals less water which equals less weight.  Additionally, less glycogen means more use of fat as fuel.

The science is quite simple and Atkins can say all he wants, but the body works, basically the same way for all.

Mike
Sorry kiddo, but I disagree that the body works the same way for all for if it did I would have the same size as my brothers bodies growing up.  I grew up fat and they slim and we ate the same thing at the breakfast, lunch, snacks and the dinner table.  So there must be something going on with my body.  Yes, the process is the same but there is something different in each individual person.  

Are you inferring that I am having a less than nutritious diet for I eat well and take vitamins.  In addition, I am burning the calories, but maybe you are just emphasizing a point of weight loss.  In a way the Atkins helped me to eat less and therefore lose the weight.  
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Grinch on August 01, 2010, 11:37:57 am
The body does work the same for everyone.  Some bodies are a bit more or less efficient at specific functions, but in the end a normal human body functions in a very specific manner that does not vary.
Red_Dragon your weight loss is admirable however the rate of loss is beyond what is considered healthy.
No matter what diet plan one chooses the single over riding factor remains the same.  Calories in vs calories out.

If you use more than you consume you lose weight. Period.  There is no other way.
Can you change your body composition somewhat by adjusting macros?  Absolutely.  You must however look at the big picture.  A high protein / low carb diet certainly works for muscular hypertrophy, but the rest of the equation is you must have resistance training. A typical muscle gain diet is 20% carb, 20% fat, 60% protein. That is the macro I mentioned.

 A pure weight loss macro may be different but you must get adequate nutrients.  Cutting all carbs is proven repeatedly to cause an initial weight loss that can not be maintained.

If you want to lose weight that's wonderful, but consider adding a bit of muscle.  Muscle uses much more energy (calories) than fat. That muscle weighs more so the number on the scale may not change a lot. The number on your waist size however will change significantly.  In the course of the last 4 months I've gained 2 lbs but lost 2 more inches off my waist.  I'm now at a 32 waist at 190 lbs.

There is no magic 'eat this and lose weight and look good' plan out there that has shown long term results. Not Atkins, not southbeach, not the beer and women diet, not the grapefruit diet.
Keep up the hard work but don't get so concerned with justifying your choice to go with Atkins that you look beyond other more conventional thinking.  Consider a whole body and lifestyle plan that entails good and complete nutrition as well as exercise.
A year ago I consulted 2 trainers and an MD, all gave me essentially the same advice.  I've lost 40 lbs, nearly 8 inches off my waist and am now able to play competitive hockey and last 6 rounds in the boxing ring.  I couldn't walk 5 flights of stairs when I started.
Eat clean, work hard, enjoy the results.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 01, 2010, 06:16:28 pm
The body does work the same for everyone.  Some bodies are a bit more or less efficient at specific functions, but in the end a normal human body functions in a very specific manner that does not vary.
Red_Dragon your weight loss is admirable however the rate of loss is beyond what is considered healthy.
No matter what diet plan one chooses the single over riding factor remains the same.  Calories in vs calories out.

If you use more than you consume you lose weight. Period.  There is no other way.
Can you change your body composition somewhat by adjusting macros?  Absolutely.  You must however look at the big picture.  A high protein / low carb diet certainly works for muscular hypertrophy, but the rest of the equation is you must have resistance training. A typical muscle gain diet is 20% carb, 20% fat, 60% protein. That is the macro I mentioned.

 A pure weight loss macro may be different but you must get adequate nutrients.  Cutting all carbs is proven repeatedly to cause an initial weight loss that can not be maintained.

If you want to lose weight that's wonderful, but consider adding a bit of muscle.  Muscle uses much more energy (calories) than fat. That muscle weighs more so the number on the scale may not change a lot. The number on your waist size however will change significantly.  In the course of the last 4 months I've gained 2 lbs but lost 2 more inches off my waist.  I'm now at a 32 waist at 190 lbs.

There is no magic 'eat this and lose weight and look good' plan out there that has shown long term results. Not Atkins, not southbeach, not the beer and women diet, not the grapefruit diet.
Keep up the hard work but don't get so concerned with justifying your choice to go with Atkins that you look beyond other more conventional thinking.  Consider a whole body and lifestyle plan that entails good and complete nutrition as well as exercise.
A year ago I consulted 2 trainers and an MD, all gave me essentially the same advice.  I've lost 40 lbs, nearly 8 inches off my waist and am now able to play competitive hockey and last 6 rounds in the boxing ring.  I couldn't walk 5 flights of stairs when I started.
Eat clean, work hard, enjoy the results.
Whatever dude, I am happy that I am down to 182 pounds and no matter what the professionals say, I am feeling good and healthy.  My only consistant problem is my hips that are still painful at times because of either arthritis or pulled groin.  I am cheating a little on Atkins but I guess that makes it a Weight Watchers or Jenny Craigs diet now.  Oh sorry, Atkins did say that once you are on his diet you can adjust to what you want to eat. Since I am losing weight I can slow its progress with a Atkins bar or a sweet salad dressing.  I still watch my sugar intake so I am not worried about that.  Sorry, I did not count the points. 

I seems to be on the defensive all the time, when I just want to encourage people and let them know that being fat is not a permanent situation.  I guess I ran into Atkins haters here.  I just happen to use Atkins and it works for me. 

Which diet are you on and how do you feel about it?  That is all I want to know and have you encourage people about weight loss and not be a hater.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: bocker3 on August 02, 2010, 07:48:08 am
I seems to be on the defensive all the time, when I just want to encourage people and let them know that being fat is not a permanent situation.  I guess I ran into Atkins haters here.  I just happen to use Atkins and it works for me. 

If that is all you wanted to do, then you should have stuck to it.  Instead you have been spewing incorrect statements as if they are truths.  That is the reason I and others have been on here and THAT is why you have found yourself on the defensive.

So, continued good luck to you in your weight loss journey, I know it's not an easy thing.  And, as you approach your goal weight, I wish you all the luck in maintaining, for that is the hardest part of all -- again, I speak from experience.

Mike
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 03, 2010, 04:32:54 am
If that is all you wanted to do, then you should have stuck to it.  Instead you have been spewing incorrect statements as if they are truths.  That is the reason I and others have been on here and THAT is why you have found yourself on the defensive.

So, continued good luck to you in your weight loss journey, I know it's not an easy thing.  And, as you approach your goal weight, I wish you all the luck in maintaining, for that is the hardest part of all -- again, I speak from experience.

Mike
take a long walk on a short peir.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: bocker3 on August 03, 2010, 07:51:50 am
take a long walk on a short peir.

You really do have some witty ways to buttress your argument, now don't you.  I have science (and math) on my side, which is why I have not turned catty.

Weight loss has a simple solution (but can be extremely difficult to achieve) -- eat less, burn more. 

I will now withdraw from this thread.  Best of luck to you -- I wish you continued success in your weight loss journey.

Mike
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: David_CA on August 03, 2010, 08:44:54 am
You really do have some witty ways to buttress your argument, now don't you.  I have science (and math) on my side, which is why I have not turned catty.

Weight loss has a simple solution (but can be extremely difficult to achieve) -- eat less, burn more. 

I will now withdraw from this thread.  Best of luck to you -- I wish you continued success in your weight loss journey.

Mike

Well said, Mike.  This is why I choose eating slightly less overall, more 'less' for specific food types, and more exercise.  Personally, I enjoy food more than I enjoy being lethargic / lazy (not pointing fingers at anybody).  It's a bit like money and one's personal budget.  If there's not enough cash, there are two choices - earn more or spend less.  It really is that simple.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 03, 2010, 07:31:41 pm
You really do have some witty ways to buttress your argument, now don't you.  I have science (and math) on my side, which is why I have not turned catty.

Weight loss has a simple solution (but can be extremely difficult to achieve) -- eat less, burn more. 

I will now withdraw from this thread.  Best of luck to you -- I wish you continued success in your weight loss journey.

Mike

Sticks and stones baby.  lol  It's just I am happy to be this size and you seem to want to kill my buzz.  Or do I have it wrong.  Are you over weight and found happiness in your program?  That's I am asking.  I am hardly putting down your program but you insist to knock mines.  My weight loss is obviously "simple" and yet it was a struggle to get there.  So pardon me if I am happy to be at 181lbs and it was this diet, yeah "eat less, burn more," the Atkins way.

The only difference my diet and yours is that I avoid sugar, other than that we are the same. 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 03, 2010, 07:49:35 pm
Well said, Mike.  This is why I choose eating slightly less overall, more 'less' for specific food types, and more exercise.  Personally, I enjoy food more than I enjoy being lethargic / lazy (not pointing fingers at anybody).  It's a bit like money and one's personal budget.  If there's not enough cash, there are two choices - earn more or spend less.  It really is that simple.
It is like a budget, but I just go crazy if i eat sugary foods like cakes and ice creams.  And it doesn't help that it just increase my hungry even more.  Now without the sugar, I have less hungry and more energy.  I wish I was different but history always repeats itself.  Now I am determine to avoid sugar until I reach my weight goal and then just have it on the weekends if my body can handle it.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 05, 2010, 05:39:47 am
Looking at the scale this morning I was surprise to see that I now weight 180 lbs.  Now I have just twenty pounds to go and it may take a couple of months.  I look great and feel good.  Yesterday I brought some Atkins bars, for the the occasional snack break.  It is my only sugar I allow myself to eat when I have a craving for sweets.  I guess I would eat four a week if I wish.

There was a book that had a man's diary with pictures of his weight loss over a one year period.  I wonder if anyone know the name of this book?  It's premise is of a overweight man who weight about 230lbs and showed over the months losing weight and charted his progress with pictures.  He worked with body builders and loss his excess fat to a slim bodybuilders body.  All I remember is that he was bald or balding.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 10, 2010, 07:37:21 am
Well, well, well...  I have reached 176lbs and I am feeling good, except for allergies and the ache in my legs muscles, I am well.  I am hungry now so I will keep this short and eat some chicken and a salad.  My stomach is looking smooth and my legs are getting thinner.  I think I am at that point when it seems to come in fast.  I am so close to my goal that I can taste it.  I hope you all are having the same luck with your diet plan.

Red.

Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 10, 2010, 07:51:46 am
http://health.yahoo.net/news/s/ap/us_med_waist_size_mortality

Battle of the buldge
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 17, 2010, 10:59:01 am
Great news today for I have reached 168 pounds.  I am shocked and surprised, for I see a little six pack developing and my legs are slimmer.  If I reach 160 lbs, will I be able to maintain it.  Time will tell. 
bye bye...
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Nestor on August 17, 2010, 11:39:51 am
You've lost nine pounds in a week, and fourteen pounds in twelve days?  Wow, I'm impressed! 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 18, 2010, 09:14:37 am
You've lost nine pounds in a week, and fourteen pounds in twelve days?  Wow, I'm impressed! 
Thanks.  I do body-building five to six days a week for over a hour and I eat very healthy.  Now if my legs were better I would also run, but I hope to in a month or so.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 22, 2010, 06:46:08 am
I have met a goal of fitting into my thin pants, also I am down to 165 pounds.  I am shocked and happy.  Unfortunately, I think I could lose some fat on my thighs, which I hope to turn into or replace with muscle. 

I am at that point where I am getting to look thin and it is again new to me.  I am eating regular meals and I do, as usual, exercise with weights.  It just that I hoped that there was more muscle on me than fat and now I see that I was mostly fat or mostly thin without the fat.  I am now approximately 30%  drop of weight since March from 230 lbs, which I think is just good.  I do not want to be a muscleman, although that would be nice for a minute, I just want to look fit and slim. 

I hope all of you are having good luck with your diets.  Take care and have a good day.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 25, 2010, 11:16:08 pm
Well, it had started as a bad day but it ended up being a good day.  First off, some guy, let us call him A-Hole, gave me attitude at the gym.  I think he has an anger problem, probably needs medical attention or something, but I spent most of the day pissed off and dreaming of ways of kicking his butt.  He is bigger than I am physically, so I just ignored him and finished my workout.  I still hate his stupid butt.  

After that episode, I ended up at the GMHC in New York City, Manhattan, for I am taking computer class for the last couple of days so to get a good paying job.  They promise that it will be worth it and it is free.  I like free education for it give me a warm feeling inside.   ;)  While there, I rekindled some old friendships from art class and they were so surprise that I had lost 60 lbs in 90 days.  They remembered that I use to use a cane to get around but I also worked on getting my legs better by band aiding the legs, exercise and stretching.  

Now my legs are much improved and I maybe able to run someday.  That information I got from the internet under “pulled groin.”  Can you believe that my doctor wanted me to get hip surgery, even after she could see that I can walk properly without the cane?  Doctors, they have to be right especially when it cost them money.  To continue, even people I did not know well could tell that I lost weight and they said I had looked great.  My old friends hugged me and smiled a lot and I told them my method of losing weight.  

This was all unexpected and I am happy that they think I look better.  I do fear of the dreaded “wasting away disease,” for the last time I’d lost that much weight I look gaunt in the face, but I will keep tabs on the weight lost and make sure that I don’t go overboard.  That is my other fear, anorexia.  However, I do not have a distorted image of myself.  I just think that I will be skinnier than I have ever imagined.  Take care and good luck with your diet.

Yours truly,

Red_Dragon


p.s.  I amy end up being 140 lbs, but I may stay at 160 lbs.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 27, 2010, 06:28:30 am
Great news everyone for I have gotten under the 165 mark to 163 pounds,  My legs, stomack and chest still needs to lose some fat, but my face may lose fat and that I don't want to happen.   Funny how my face changes when it gets slimmer.  I still could lose two inches on the waist and bulid up some muscle actually everywhere.  I just love the fact that I can finally fit into my slim suits.  It like Christmas when that happens.  I hope you all are doing as well.  Take care and have a good day.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on August 31, 2010, 05:21:05 am
Bad news everyone.   The slim suit I use to fit on me is now too big. The jacket I float in as well as the pants. Dam I like that suit. It's a very nice, dressy grey suit. Yeah, I know it's really good news, but that was my favorite suits until I tried I float like a boat in it. It's like playing dress up as a kid with your fathers clothes. Sorry, I only tried on Mom's girdle and you know why?

I find it amazing that my skin is so elastic and is getting reshaped with very little sagging. My stomach stills needs work and I hope to see muscles by end of next month or thirty days. My thighs also could lose a couple of inches, which ideally I would like my waist to be 29" from 35" and my thighs 23" from 25". I am keeping to my diet mainly expect I drink beer with dinner.  I need the beer for relaxation from a "Hard Day of Work," and it's the only way I can be assured that I will sleep at night for I drink coffee during the day. You see I am highly sensitive to caffeine and if it wasn't for the beer, I would be up most of the night.  I just drink one 22 oz beer and stay up till 11 pm. Last night, to used up time, I just put things away, ironed shirts and put things in order best I could.  OMG, I'm a neat freak!!

I go to the Gay Pier, "Christopher Street Pier" in NYC where all types of people and characters go to bath under the sun.  I do allot of guy watching and imagine what I would look like if I was thin like the skinny guys.   They look nice and healthy but I will get there.  It is only a matter of time with good dieting and exercise.  Good luck with your pursuits, have a Happy dieting and have a great day.

yours,

(skinny)red_Dragon888
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on September 03, 2010, 12:42:15 pm
My legs are becoming less fatty around the thighs with a slight curve developing as the fat is reducing.  I am amazed with this and I feel like a high school experiment gone awry.  My body shape is changing weekly and what a difference.

BTW, did anyone see that actress Sara Rue weight lost on "Jenny Craig.'"  Last I heard she lost 50lbs and the change is noticeable and dramatic.  Was she ever that thin before or was she always heavy? Here's the website for Jenny Craig:  http://www.jennycraig.com/?dfa=1 

In addition, here are other people talking about their weight loss.  http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=weight+watchers+before+and+after&aq=1
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on September 06, 2010, 05:53:23 am
The Incredible Shrinking Man Speaks.

I am getting used to this shape and I can go further.  My thighs are still fatty, as my back, waist and stomach and maybe by October end, I will see outlines of muscles.  God, a six pack on my bod “is a good thing." It's a miracle.  My legs still hurt from the pulled groin so running is not an option but one day I hope to do a marathon.   Maybe I will try for the New York Marathon.  What a dream come true that would be. 

Now my favorite clothes are my thin ones and I can see immediately if I can fit into them or not.  From looking at the waist length I can judge if it will be a tight fit or some what bit.  In addition, my old big clothes looks like clown clothes.  I float like a boat in them and they are now put away to be give to goodwill or the trash. 

I have just tried on my black, old (and I mean at least ten years), never been worn outside, looking new, Cain Klein jeans and they are a tight fit.  The jeans are a size 30 and I can wear them but I can wait till my waist losses another two inches.  After that, it maybe the only jeans I can wear for they are the smallest I own.  The rest are at least size 32.

I also have been shopping like mad for new dress shirts and casual jerseys and now I can fit in a size small, which is still big on me.  Oh, the problems of being thin.  I would like to rename my profile to "the incredible shrinking man," for every month I get thinner and thinner to the point that I may be look like a swimsuit model.  lol   ;D  :D

Good luck to all whom are also trying to reach a certain weight goal. 

Yours, red_Dragon888 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on September 07, 2010, 12:04:48 pm
Something that might interests you...

NATAP: Veggies+Low Carb Diet Reduce Mortality, study reports

NATAP http://natap.org/
_______________________________________________

Low-Carb Diet is Better When Rich in Veggies
MedPage Today
Published: September 06, 2010
"low-carb diets with a higher intake of vegetables were associated with lower all-cause mortality (HR 0.80, 95% CI 0.75 to 0.85, P≤0.001) and cardiovascular mortality (HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.68 to 0.87, P<0.001)."
Action Points 
    * Point out that the editorialists who commented on this study caution that causality cannot be proven and that they note that given the current state of evidence, "no one can legitimately claim that a low-carbohydrate diet is either harmful or safe.

    * Point out that the editorialists also noted that "each of the reported hazard ratios are in the lower range of clinical importance."

Eating a low-carbohydrate diet in which more fat and protein sources come from plants than animals may be protective against death, researchers say.

In a pooled analysis, a higher-vegetable low-carbohydrate diet was associated with a 20% lower risk of death (HR 0.80, 95% CI 0.75 to 0.85, P≤0.001), Teresa Fung, ScD, of Simmons College in Boston, and colleagues reported in the Sept. 7 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.
Conversely, a low-carb diet full of meat tended to be associated with a 23% increased risk of death, although the finding was of borderline significance (HR 1.23, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.37, P=0.051).

"These results suggest that the health effects of a low-carbohydrate diet may depend on the type of protein and fat, and a diet that includes mostly vegetable sources of protein and fat is preferable to a diet with mostly animal sources of protein and fat," they wrote.

Low-carbohydrate diets have been claimed to promote weight loss and improve blood cholesterol levels. However, effects on blood lipid profiles for the diets have been mixed, and, in general, data on the long-term association between low-carb diets and mortality are sparse.

So the researchers looked at data from two prospective cohort studies: the Nurses Health Study and Health Professionals' Follow-Up Study.

There were a total of 85,168 women ages 34 to 59 and 44,548 men ages 40 to 75 without heart disease, cancer, or diabetes at baseline, with a total of 26 years of follow-up in women and 20 years in men.

Diet was assessed via food-frequency questionnaire.

By the end of the studies, there were a total of 12,555 deaths in women (including 2,458 cardiovascular-related deaths and 5,780 cancer-related deaths) and 8,678 deaths in men (including 2,746 cardiovascular-related deaths and 2,960 cancer-related deaths).


In a pooled analysis, the researchers found a modest increase in overall mortality for the general low-carb diet when comparing the most extreme deciles, although the finding wasn't statistically significant (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.24, P=0.136).


In further analyses, they found that low-carbohydrate diets with more meat tended to be associated with higher all-cause mortality, although significance was borderline (HR 1.23, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.37, P=0.051).


There was also an association between the higher-meat diet and cardiovascular death (HR 1.14 95% CI 1.01 to 1.29, P=0.029).


The researchers said this is probably due to the established benefit of unsaturated fats, dietary fiber, micronutrients and other vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that meat-based diets may be lacking.

Cancer mortality risk also tended to be increased, albeit not significantly.

In contrast, low-carb diets with a higher intake of vegetables were associated with lower all-cause mortality (HR 0.80, 95% CI 0.75 to 0.85, P≤0.001) and cardiovascular mortality (HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.68 to 0.87, P<0.001).




The researchers noted that low-carbohydrate diets can vary in the amounts of plant or animal fat that is consumed, which may explain why this kind of diet has shown mixed results regarding lipid profiles.




The study was limited because diet and lifestyle characteristics were assessed with some degree of error, the researchers said.




In an accompanying editorial, William S. Yancy, Jr., MD, of Duke University, and colleagues expressed caution about the interpretation of this observational study.




In this study, even the upper limits of the confidence intervals are in the "lower range of clinical importance," they wrote, and it didn't show a "clear dose-response relationship in that there was not a clear progression of risk moving up or down the diet deciles."




They said the study "addresses a critical, unresolved public health question of diet but cannot satisfy us with a definitive answer," and called for a large-scale clinical trial "to provide a more definitive answer to the largest public health crisis in the U.S.: the effect of diet on obesity, chronic disease, and mortality."




"The current state of the evidence," they wrote, "is such that no one can legitimately claim that a low-carbohydrate diet is either harmful or safe with any degree of certainty until a large-scale, randomized study with meaningful clinical endpoints is done."




The study was supported by the National Institutes of Health.




Neither the researchers nor the editorialists reported any conflicts of interest.




Primary source: Annals of Internal Medicine

Source reference:

Fung TT, et al "Low-carbohydrate diets and all-cause and cause-specific mortality" Ann Intern Med 2010; 153: 289-298.




Additional source: Annals of Internal Medicine

Source reference:

Yancy WS, et al "Animal, vegetable, or ... clinical trial?" Ann Intern Med 2010; 153: 337-339.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on September 10, 2010, 09:22:11 am
Correction: In my one of my post, it Calvin Klein not Cain Klein

Well, it has been 112 numbers of days, or approximately four months, and I am happy to report that my weight loss was a success, but I am also looking into the future that I must not rebound back to my former state.  

In truth, I was skeptical that it would work at all for I had assumed in the past that I was fat and I must get used to my heavy self.  I am glad that I had found a way to change that mind set and used a method to change my body from unfit to fit or from fat to slim.  

My legs can still be thinner for they look like they have ten pounds each of fat on them, which means that if I did lose twenty pounds, then I would weight 140lbs. (by my scale or 150 by the nutritionist scale)   That is within the danger zone of being anorexic looking.  My face is not shallow and I still have fluff on the stomach which I also want to lose.  However, my upper body looks great in the mirror.  By this I mean that my chest and shoulders has the appearance of being very muscular. “I’m too sexy for my cat…”  lol

Another point is that I am now wearing my slim clothes (small to medium shirts and 30 to 32 inch pants) and my old clothes prior to June 2nd 2010 are just too big to wear.  I wonder is this is how the “Biggest Losers” felt when they lost the weight and found the clothes no long are tight but way too loose?  

Like I mentioned before I had lost the weight a couple of times.  One was on Atkins diet, but I wasn’t taking medicine for HIV and my weight loss may have been a function of the disease for I was too thin and my face did look shallow after a while.  The other times was using unhealthy methods that did not last long while one method was starving the body by not eating.  

Now I know it is a matter of input/output, meaning burning what food one eats and making sure not to overeat otherwise weight gain will be the result.  However, for me eating sugary foods like cakes, ice creams, soda pops, or starches like potato chips, corn chips, rice and pasta leads to weight gain in the highest proportions.  (I eat too much of that stuff and it gives me a glucose high)  That and I a food addict, which means that I am addicted to sugar and starches and I can easily eat too much in one sitting without really trying.  

Fortunately, I am not hungry all the time and what I eat is very healthy, although I wish I could be less carnivorous and more vegetarian.   Maybe in one of my lives I was a Lion.   I had some high carbs now and then, but not in the quantity or as often like I use to.  Now if I have starches or sugar I can regulate the amount and cut them out if I observe weight gain.  I also eat them on rare occasions like having lunch with a friend, which is only once every two weeks to once a month.  

It is September, and maybe by January I will be at the shape and size I want.  I just have to keep on track and not get off it.  I hope those of you who are also trying to lose weight will have the same success.  You don’t have to follow my way of dieting but there are “Jenny Craigs,” and “Weight Watchers” which I hear have great success in helping people to lose weight.  
Good luck to you all and have a nice day.

Yours truly,

red_Dragon888


Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on September 18, 2010, 03:02:21 pm
OMG!!! My scale is broken and I have to buy a new one for my weekly weight-in.  Not that much of an emergency really, but it is an inconvience. 

Llike I have mentioned before, my nutritionist scale marked me as 170lbs (you do the math for conversion to stones) and my scale marked me as 160lbs.  Now that my scale has gone bye bye, I must face the truth and say that I am now 170lbs. 

No matter, I am still very healthy and looking very good at present.  My only vice, sugar vice, to date is that I would have a spoon full of yogurt for breakfast and dinner.  However, it seems that I am latose intolerance and must give that up.  Oh what a silver lining that is.  lol...

Still it is amazing how much weight that was lost in the past 118 days and the results are very satisfying.  Now if I can fly around the world, have a million dollar home, meet new people and drive in my own Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Maserati ...  Life would be grand indeed.  "I want to be a billionaire so freaking bad..."  But first things first.  Get the life together and then get to the rest. 

I hope others are having as good a time as I am.  Have fun and be safe...

red_Dragon888
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on September 26, 2010, 12:07:50 pm
Another amazing week of keeping to my diet has past while I still wait to lose the extra mass on my legs.  It must be shrinking slowly as the muscle is increasing for it has not lost an inch for weeks all the while workouts are done at least three to five times a week. The chest area is looking fantastic while the stomach area, although reduced, has sagging skin which hopefully will dissipate in a few months to leave a tight six pack. 

The current worry to date is the underwear is getting larger.  Never truly imagine that the Calvin’s are in need for a change due to oversize issues, but what can else is new.  They are a size small, but they had been stretched so it maybe about time for new ones.   Even my suits need tailoring so to fit closer and have a slim look.

By the way, the scale is broken but not due to wear and tear.  It seems that the body is too light and the scale just can not measure any weight under 165lbs. (74.8 kilo) Now the plan is to shop for a new scale.  Also, a full length mirror is on the list of things to buy.  Oh the tragedy of slimming down goes on and on. ;) 

Now for the data:  On May, the weight lost equaled 18 lbs. (8.16 kilo), June equaled 22 lbs. (9.98 kilo), July equaled 13 lbs. (5.90 kilo), August equaled 18 lbs. (8.16 kilo), and September equaled 8 lbs. (3.63 kilo) as of today.  The waist size went from 42” (106.7 cm) to 33” (83.8 cm).  The total weight lost is 230 lbs. – 155 lbs. = 75 lbs. or 104.33 k – 70.31 kilo = 34.02 kilo, plus or minus 10 lbs. or 4.54 kilo since the home scale did not concur with the nutritionist’s scale.  The new weight goal has changed from 160 lbs. to 140 lbs. 

There were a few moments when there was a hunger for cake and bread, but the mind knows that if the body reverts back to old eating habits, it will revert back to the old size if not bigger. Not to go back to the old eating habits and size is the main concern; however, it was only a fleeting moment of weakness. Besides for breaks one can eat Atkins bars or drink which is very satisfying and only has 1 gram of sugar in each portion as compared to a regular candy bar which can have from 32 grams to 47 grams of sugar.

Now for some dish… The new news is that Jennifer Hudson has lost some pounds or kilos on Weight Watchers.  She looks fantastic and cheerful.  Here is the site: http://justjared.buzznet.com/2010/04/01/jennifer-hudson-weight-watchers-woman/

Even Mo'Nique, African American Comedian lost some lbs.  http://www.theinsider.com/news/2244469_Mo_Nique_Lost_40_lbs

The hope is that they are happier and healthier and that they can stay that way.

Well, it’s “back to the grind” of having fun.  Take care and stay healthy.

From your Friendly

red_Dragon888





Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on September 30, 2010, 10:08:10 pm
Yesterday, talking with the nutritionist, she gave said that the body is within normal limits of age and weight category.  The body, as her BMI equipment recorded, weight/mass is 154 lbs. and the body weight at the time of measure was 175 lbs.  She also mention that the body now weight .3 % less than in it did in summer of 2007, so there was no huge difference except for the fact that the body did weight about 200 lbs. or gained 25 lbs. a few months later. 

Now the question is whether to stay at this weight or go lower.  She advised not to lose too much more but the legs and abdomen still could lose two more inches or the body could lose twenty more pounds.  The goal is to see ripples on the stomach and legs.  The upper part of the body looks great so that is not a problem. 

Soon, in a week or so, the main doctor will tell if the blood test is showing any abnormalities or are the results normal.  It was a very comprehensive test of nearly every test done for the ophthalmologist found white blood cells blobs between the iris and the lens. Apparently, the body my have been fighting off some kind of infection or the arthritis in the hip is effecting the eye tissue.  The eyes are not in bad condition, it just that a little flash of blurred light just to the outside of the eyes happens once in a while.  Besides that, everything looks good.  The ophthalmologist prescribed medication that has reduced the blob.

From the recorded data, the percentage lost goes like this.  The waist lost 23.43%, next the stomach lost 19.51 %, and the buttock and calf both lost approximately 20 % in size, with a total of 32.61 % lost in weight at 133 days.

Losing more weight or fat is not advised for the body needs some fat for emergencies; however, the current diet has stabilized for the last week and losing weight is not an issue.  The next goal is to gain muscle and lose the fat to have a slim muscular form. This goal may take another couple of months but there is neither hurry nor desire to look like a runway model as of yet.  It would be nice to have that shape.

The body is still addicted to sugar for when it tastes it, the body craves more to eat. Everything tastes better and then the appetite is increased ten fold.   Hence, avoiding sugar is important if this body is to stay on the diet to lose more weight.  Even sugar substitutes increase the palate.

Well, measurements are tomorrow.  Take care.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on October 02, 2010, 09:01:11 am
Salutations and good day.  There was no real difference in size and the scale is still unreliable, so it is presumed that the weight is the same.  Lately, there has been a great desire to eat more, with the cold coming in and all, but with will power and memory of what the body may look like if things get out of hand, there is no worry of losing control of the diet. 

Actually, it is not a diet but a new way of eating.  Now that my habits is set, I hope, this will be my main action in trying to stay slim and healthy.  I hope others are doing just as well. 

Take care and stay healthy.

Yours,
Spiderman...

Whoops... I mean red_Dragon888

Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on October 06, 2010, 06:57:12 am
A quick note, I had a dream that my body was disappearing and it didn't hurt, but I couldn't stop it.  It was kind of scary and not at the same time.  I was surprisingly calm in the dream but at the simultaneously trying to rationalize why I was dissolving into thin air.  After waking up I realize that dream was reflecting a reality that I am reaching a body type that I had never reach before. (and I mean ever reached before)  I am in the 10% body fat zone and my mind, soul and body is realizing this fact and is finding it hard to adjust.  In the mornings, just before I get up, I find myself feeling around my arms, stomach, chest, buttock and legs to find that the giant layer of fat that was once there is gone.  It is replace with skin and bone which is a funny feeling.  No ass, no belly, no thighs.  It is like being born again or having a new body all together.  Also, this is my lowest weight to date of, by my scale 150lbs., or most possibly 160 lbs. for the scale is off by 10 lbs.  In addition, I still have 10 lbs. to lose.  This Thursday I will see my doctor and get the results of my blood test which will tell if there is any abnormalities in the system.  I remember my Ex dying and losing a lot of weight before he died of testicle cancer and I am little afraid that is what is happening to me now, but it maybe unjustified fear.  Well, have a good day and be good or very very bad.


red_Dragon888
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on October 08, 2010, 10:00:13 pm
My Doctor's checkup on Thursday went well and my T-Cells and Viral load are in very good range and got the flu shot.  I made sure to ask the doc if losing this much weight so quickly is a problem, and she said "it good that you have lost the weight, just don't lose any more."  My reply was, "I don't think I can help that."  But I can and I have been snacking on protein bars with 1 gram of sugar so to keep me at 160 lbs for a few weeks.  

I still plan to work out at the gym and start swimming to build and tone muscles.  The Docs scale that day read 163 lbs. and the one I have at home read 150 lbs.  (I wont buy a new scale, so I will just add 10 lbs to the data record.)  The goal is still to have a six pack by summer and model for Calvin Klein.  Well, at least the first one is reachable for now.  The muscles are tight but I see no ripples yet.  I may have to get down to 150 lbs to see definition and that is uncharted territory for me.  I don't think I weight that much at birth, (percentage Wise) which would mean near 2 % fat.   But I want to get the ripples and strengthen the legs.  Wish me luck.
  
While at the doctors I got the weight info from each visit.  Here they are:

Encounter Weight time
01/18/07   173   10:23 AM
04/04/08   192   9:08 AM
07/21/08   215   9:48 AM
11/05/08   222   12:52 PM
01/22/09   218   9:47 AM
02/19/09   217   8:58 AM
03/25/09   217   5:52 AM
05/04/09   210   11:24 AM
05/07/09   210   9:27 AM
08/20/09   213   10:23 AM
12/10/09   228   8:52 AM
03/25/10   223   8:54 AM
07/08/10   190   10:06 AM
10/07/10   163   11:00 AM
The most I had gain was 50 lbs at a weight of 228 lbs. and since then I have gone under my lowest weight since 2007.  I am so glad they kept my weight record.  Now I can see the progression of the ups and downs of my old diet or eating habits.

Well, have a great week end and be good or be very very bad...

red_Dragon888 or is that 666...   ;)

Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on October 09, 2010, 03:21:30 am
If you hit 2% body fat you better be working out like crazy or you're just gonna look like an escapee from Auschwitz.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Grinch on October 09, 2010, 11:03:01 am
I wasn't going to post in this thread again because you seem determined to ignore those with training and knowledge about the subject, including your own MD, however I'll give you this little tidbit.

You seem to get the concept of calories in vs calories out, now you are discussing adding muscle. 
Adding muscle means you must increase calories.  Professional body builders use a cut / bulk phased approach. This means cutting down weight and fat by reducing calories and continuing resistance training, too much calorie deficit has the unwanted effect of losing muscle. Thus we lose at ~ 2 lbs per week. 
Once body fat has dropped a bulk phase begins.  This includes increasing calories to a surplus while dramatically increasing resistance training.
Protein intake becomes key here.

2% body fat is frankly an absurd goal for someone not trying to compete in body building.  Even then professional BB's cut to that level only during the week preceding a contest.

It sounds like you have achieved what BB's and fitness models refer to as skinny fat. The simple solution to this is increased caloric intake with a good nutritional macro, limited cardio, and a good resistance training program that includes leg workouts like squats, core work such as dead lifting, and upper body work.  Don't be that guy that does 12 types of curls and 4 types of bench press while ignoring the rest.

That elusive 6 pack will show up along with lats and obliques to give a good tapered appearance.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on October 10, 2010, 07:10:55 am
I wasn't going to post in this thread again because you seem determined to ignore those with training and knowledge about the subject, including your own MD, however I'll give you this little tidbit.

You seem to get the concept of calories in vs calories out, now you are discussing adding muscle. 
Adding muscle means you must increase calories.  Professional body builders use a cut / bulk phased approach. This means cutting down weight and fat by reducing calories and continuing resistance training, too much calorie deficit has the unwanted effect of losing muscle. Thus we lose at ~ 2 lbs per week. 
Once body fat has dropped a bulk phase begins.  This includes increasing calories to a surplus while dramatically increasing resistance training.
Protein intake becomes key here.

2% body fat is frankly an absurd goal for someone not trying to compete in body building.  Even then professional BB's cut to that level only during the week preceding a contest.

It sounds like you have achieved what BB's and fitness models refer to as skinny fat. The simple solution to this is increased caloric intake with a good nutritional macro, limited cardio, and a good resistance training program that includes leg workouts like squats, core work such as dead lifting, and upper body work.  Don't be that guy that does 12 types of curls and 4 types of bench press while ignoring the rest.

That elusive 6 pack will show up along with lats and obliques to give a good tapered appearance.
Thanks for the reply.  Actually, I was just thinking off the top of my head and overlooked that my nutritionist list my “desired weight’ as 154 lbs. and I mistook that as body weight without fat.  So, in my mind, I guess getting to the “desired weight” is like being super thin, while in fact it is probably just a healthy weight for my body.  Sorry for the mix up. 

I do not get the point that I did not listen to my doctor, unless you mean when she said not to lose anymore weight.  It is just that I can pinch an inch on my stomach and my legs and I would like to see definition.  My meals have been mostly meat and veggies like chicken, steak, pork, cucumbers, cheese, eggs, fish and tofu literally.  In very healthy portions so not to feel hungry between meals.  Also, I have added the protein bars when cooking is not convenient or I just feel hungry and want a quick fix. 

As for work outs, I follow a “whole body” approach when weight training.  On Monday’s and Thursday’s I do three sets of chest, arms and shoulders weight training exercises, and on Tuesday’s and Friday’s three sets of weight training exercises for the back and legs.  I try to do the core or mid-section like crunches and stretching everyday.  My legs are the weakest because of the pulled groin or the arthritis but I hope in time they will become strong and flexible again. Hell, before I had lost the weight I was a hunched back old man with a cane.  Now I am slimmer younger man walking tall hoping to continue on this path.

It seemed so hard, back then, trying to lose the weight and eat healthy, but now it seems easy almost effortless.   I still marvel that I can spread my hand over my stomach and not feel the bulge that use to be there.  But here I am counting me blessing and that is not always a good thing, or is it?  I am just glad to be finally “Healthy, Wealthy and Wise.” 

Sorry again for the mix up in thought and terminology but I defer to the experts to correct me when I am wrong. 

Take care and be good.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on October 16, 2010, 08:28:06 am
Good morning and salutations.    It has been another glorious week and my body has stabilized for the time being.  I am still on a somewhat Atkins diet, but I have to admit that I had cheated or took a break, whichever you deem best describe the situations, and had Gordon’s breaded shrimp and fish for dinner.  I had finished the packaged by next day.  But I am allowed to skip the diet once in a while, just as long as I monitor my weight and don’t go over board. 

I am still touching myself, not in that way silly, in the mornings and it still amazes me that I am so thin.  Again, I feel ribs and stomach and thinner thighs and even my face is thin.  Is this a dream or am I in someone else’s body.  If it is a dream, I don’t want to wake up. 

This Monday, the Nutritionist will run the BMI test to check to see if there have been any changes since the last time, which there has been at least a loss of approximately ten pounds since the last visit.  That would have been 175 lbs. and now I am according to the gym scale, 163 lbs.  So on sometime during next week, I will let you know the results of her test.

Well, on impulse and great desire, I brought an Inversion Table to help with the blood circulation in the hip area.  What I do is hang upside down for a minute each day and try to loosen the joints all over the body.  I also started pounding the painful areas of the hip with my fist while walking for this seems to alleviate the pain which is almost unbearable at times.  Now it, the hip pain, is going away and I can walk longer distances.  I plan to walk for at least an hour today to see if the hip area can take the stress.  Then I plan to start running again.  Imagine, my doctor and the sport doctor want me to have hip surgery, but I said, “Sorry Sha Nai Nai, I ain’t getting any more surgeries to this lifetime.”   They can go to hell, especially when I saw on YouTube a surgeon cutting up a patient’s joints like chicken parts.  They must be “FUCKING CRAZY” to think that I would let them do that to me. 

Associates that I meet tell me that it is not a problem…and they had it or their friends had it done so what’s the big deal?  The Big deal is if there is a way to keep my body healthy while at the same time avoiding surgery, much less medication, Hell yeah I will take that approach before anything else. 

The goal is the same or different, to get down to 154 lbs. to have a bitching bod.  I already got guys looking at me, but I ain’t in no hurry to “hook-up” with anyone.  Let me get the high paying job, the mansion along the riverside, the Mercedes, the Benz, the Jag and the Lombardi in the garage and then we can talk or a Thousand Years of Solitude.  Which ever comes first. 

Take care and I hope you are reaching your health goals.

As always, until we meet again.

red_Dragon888
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Assurbanipal on October 16, 2010, 09:21:43 am
I'm really enjoying this thread and your posts.  You sound so happy and as if you feel an unexpected (?) sense of control.

Congratulations.  Keep it up.

A
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on October 19, 2010, 03:25:40 am
I'm really enjoying this thread and your posts.  You sound so happy and as if you feel an unexpected (?) sense of control.

Congratulations.  Keep it up.

A
Thanks

Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on October 19, 2010, 03:43:54 am
Well, let's start with a Good Morning and Greetings to all. 

Yesterday, me weighting in at 160 lbs., my Nutritionist has given me the low down on my diet and said that if I go down to 154.00 lbs. that would be perfect for my body type.  She did add that I already look great right now (like I don't already know), and asked “How much more weight do you want to lose?”  Where I had replied, “I want to see the ripples on my stomach, and then I will be happy, but no big deal.  I am great the way I am right now.”   She smiled, I smiled and she was happy that I am not going crazy to lose the weight gun-ho style.  She did warn that the Atkins protein bars, which are my snacks, are mostly chemicals and that I should eat more fruit and veggies, which I am happy to comply with. 

I must admit, I feel my eating habits resemble the old space-age commercials where in the future, people will be eating bars of food.   Of course it was the chemical companies’ great vision to get us off the food from the ground to the food they conjured up in their labs.  Those Atkins bar has become my secret desire (obsession really) and hell I get them cheap, but I should eat a bowl of oatmeal with walnuts or apple slices once in a while.  I did eat a persimmon fruit Sunday and it wasn’t dreadfully sweet, which I like, and it tasted good.  Anyhow, I think those bars give me bad gas which is definitely not on the list of things I want in my life right now. 

A friend of mine told me of her thin boyfriend problem of being thin, in that he hates it, but I have become a thin person and it is a whole new world for me.  I still have problems finding or remembering where in the heck is my “center of gravity,” for way back when, it was located by my knees.  I had no problem standing still on the train or bus in the post diet days.  Now it seems that it has shifted around the waist, and I find myself falling to the wayside because I have to re-remember to balance myself.  Oh, the agony of not being firmly planted on the earth. 

Anywho, yesterday was my second five minutes walk/run on the treadmill.  This is a grand thing for usually my hips would use to scream in horrid pain at the thought of such an action, much less actually go through it.  Now, with the exercises, lost in weight, and stretching, I have confidence that I may one day run around the park, which is approximately four miles, while laughing at all the doctors suggestion that I need my hips replace.   HELL FUCKING NO BITCHES!!!   :D

There is a good book entitled, “Heal your Hips,” ISBN 0-471-24997-1, that’s has good ideas on how to keep the hips healthy.  It is not very long, good pictures, and may be helpful for those who hips are painful. 

To add, I guess I could have lost the weight through the “Jenny Craig” or “Weight Watchers,” but it all the same to me.  The only difference is that in the Atkins diet, I went cold turkey to give up the sweets for I feel I am also a “sugar addict.”  To eat the sugary stuff again is a risk in going insane for the sweets and I must stay steadfast in not falling back into bad eating habits. 

Besides, I got the book from the library and merely read it and followed it suggestions.  Although, I was tempted to go on that “meals delivery” diet thing or system where some company prepares a day’s meals for you and all you have to do is pick up, warm up and eat, but I love to cook for myself, minus the protein bars, and money is tight anyway. 

Hope this been helpful and to Assurbanipal, I do feel like it is a whole new experience for me because I have been heavy ever since I could remember.  My parents had a thing for me to be fat (since they lost my sister through illness...  Tears to Beverly)  :'( ....., and I guess they figured that a fat child was a healthy child.  Yes, there were times when I dropped down to this current weight, but it was through bad dieting or maybe sickness.  Now I feel more confident and empowered that I can stay at my current weight and not fear that somehow I well revert to bad habits and put on the pounds again. 

I have been eyeing a Halloween’s cupcake, but nowadays, sweets seem too sweet.  I will just have to bob for a naked man or an apple for the holiday and make due with that.

I don’t know.  Me thinks Bobbing for a Hot looking Naked Man in a pool of sparkling water, champagne no less, on Halloween should be an everyday occasion and a festive thing to do during the holidays.  ;)

Cheers and a great day to all.

red_dragon888


 


Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on October 22, 2010, 04:43:00 am
Day 155

Good morning and greetings to all. 

Now is the winter of our discontent
Made glorious summer by this son of York;
And all the clouds that low'r'd upon our house
In the deep bosom of the ocean buried.

In a way, this is the “winter of my discontent,” for I am allowing myself to eat bread once again.  I am at that stage of Atkins diet where I am introducing foods that I once felt were bad for me, but since I have lost the weight, maybe relearning how to eat proper potions of these foods would be a great idea.  As for the bread, I plan to eat about a half a slice to slice a day with butter (no trans fats) and only in the mornings where my energy expenditures are the neediest and the greatest.

I had already eaten an orange yesterday evening in hope to stabilize the weight and have new sources of nutrients other than vitamins and protein bars.  In addition, I have my coffee with sugar for lunch only instead of the sugar substitute like I usually do.   I was also testing to see if I would go crazy for sugar again and fall back into bad habits.  At this point it is all baby steps for now.  I do not plan to have cake or ice cream for a long time but I may have one half a cup cake just to be festive.  To tell the truth, I went out to lunch with a friend a couple or weeks ago and afterwards, we stopped at a Coffee Shoppe and had coffee and we shared a pumpkin cup cake and the world did not go in a tail spin.

It is amazing to me that I have to consciously think this way because before, I would eat and eat and eat and think the body or appetite knows best.  I guess this diet has given me something I did not have before which is discipline and the ability to control my weight lost or gain.  I am glad of that at least for my plan now is to stay around 160 lbs. or if possible, 155 lbs. for I look great at this point. 

Funny, I met a new friend at the GMHC (Gay Men Health Center) and he was afraid of the dreaded “wasting away” syndrome.  I told him, for reassurance, that it does happen but not to everyone and that he should not worry about it.  That was my biggest fear when I had started losing weight so to be heavy at the time was far more desirable that to be way too thin. Also, in my mind, thinnest means close to death, this does not help one mental state when one is trying to lose the weight.  Either way, I have proven to myself that I can be at this wanted weight and not die as a result. I guess I got HIV on the mind. 

Well, I have gained an inch on the waist and stomach but I am not panicking yet.  Winter is coming after all and a little fat is useful as an added blanket of warmth.  I have been in winter and too thin and it ain’t fun.  I remember freezing in a train car with no heating and my coat was just not enough, but I will be sure to wear long johns this season. 

I also realize that I won’t get that six pack, which is alright, but I will fit into my slim clothes which I am happy with.  I could get the six pack if I lost the water weight, but I want me water weight for it is what keeps me alive.  :D

So another glorious week went by and I am still within my normal limits of weight.  All the better I say and I hope you are having a glorious week also.  Ta for now.

red_Dragon888
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on October 29, 2010, 06:22:14 am
Good morning again and salutations on this first day of the rest of your life.  I must say that I am so glad today for it is getting deep into fall suddenly and this is usually the time I quite working out.  Maybe there is something in the water, or the air or the blinking stars are in perfect freaking alignment for me.  Whatever it is, I am taking full advantage of it for I look great, feel great and want to continue being happy.

Now back to my body’s activity, now I am more off the Atkins diet than before.  As a matter for fact, last night I had two cookies and my body did not explode, the world did not go into a tail spin, and more importantly, my sugar addiction did not phase me one bit.  It was as if this was how it was suppose to be.  I can eat as long as I don’t over eat or over do it, I can keep my swimmer body shape.  Who knew that at this point of the adventure, I would feel so confident about staying slim and being happy.  Funny, but even though my body has changed, I still feel the same.  I know that I heard this before, but I thought I would be some kind of inner change.  The only change I have was less fat and an appreciation of   how important it is to maintain a positive attitude on life, the universe and everything.  Sorry, I went off track and was thinking or the meaning of life at the same time I was thinking how happy I am to be happy.  Either way, my body did lose a little on the stomach and the thigh I am happy to say.  Everything else stayed the same which is great.  No six pack, but like I had mention before, I could get but why hurt my body at this point.  If I can maintain this shape for another nine months or till summer, I won’t be unhappy.  Hell, if possible, I will go to Florida, Miami of course, for the winter and sun bath nude while watching the hot guys in the area.  Life is grand indeed. 

That’s it for now and I hope you all are also making the best out of your lives and smelling the roses whenever you get the chance.  Life is too short to be unhappy not to try to enjoy it.  Take care, all my love and best wishes.

red_Dragon888
You have the Power.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on November 03, 2010, 06:44:09 am
This is an early edition but I had to let you all know that since I kind of started eating fruits, breads, cakes, cookies again, I found that I was ever so slowly gaining weight in size really.  Now i am resolved to the idea that I must stay on the Atkins Diet and realize that my body easily turns carbs to fat and I had almost conviced myself that it was not a problem. Luckily I stopped myself in time.

Have a good day.

Red
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Hellraiser on November 03, 2010, 03:40:44 pm
This is an early edition but I had to let you all know that since I kind of started eating fruits, breads, cakes, cookies again, I found that I was ever so slowly gaining weight in size really.  Now i am resolved to the idea that I must stay on the Atkins Diet and realize that my body easily turns carbs to fat and I had almost conviced myself that it was not a problem. Luckily I stopped myself in time.

Have a good day.

Red

If you swap to a more appropriate diet involving everything, but build muscle which will in turn increase your caloric needs daily you will be able to broaden your diet to include some of the things you enjoy eating, but in moderation.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on November 03, 2010, 09:47:13 pm
If you swap to a more appropriate diet involving everything, but build muscle which will in turn increase your caloric needs daily you will be able to broaden your diet to include some of the things you enjoy eating, but in moderation.
You, others and I would normally think so, but that is not the way my body operates.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on November 03, 2010, 09:48:07 pm
If I eat a little, it will lead to eating a lot.  Always has been, and always will be.







mod. to add last sentence.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on November 05, 2010, 11:33:43 am
Hi all and I hoe you are having a good day.  

Well, my weight has stabilized to 158 lbs. for the past couple of days and before that it was around 155 lbs., but I have hopes to drop down to 154 lbs.  I still work out to five times a week, with a running routine on a running machine for aerobic exercise.  Today I used the, well I do not know what the call it but it is an exercise machine that you stand on it and peddle like a bicycle without sitting down.  At times I was at a speed of 14 mph  so I worked out for half an hour and went to the weight room to work on the back and legs muscles today.  
My new discovery for today is that I feel that caffeine is the reason for my severe fatigue.  I am taking Navigil, a fatigue fighter as part of a study, but yesterday I quit both the Navigil and caffeine and so far today I am feeling less stressed and less anxious which is good.  It may turn out that my fatigue was a caffeine addiction and withdrawal problem, for I would drink coffee during the day but not after one in the afternoon and that is when my fatigue would trouble me the most.

I still feel that the introduction of the old foods, (cakes, cookies, pies, ice creams, etc.) into my diet would just lead to the old bad habits of over eating and that is not on the program.  Thanks Giving, Christmas, New Years, birthday and the Fourth of July is my only exceptions.  I have not gotten that six-pack stomach but I am getting use to the new me.  I tell you I just never thought I would feel my own ribs on me ever.  (the only ribs I ever felt were barbequed or on some other guys body) I thought that was the way I was built, back then, and that was that.  Now that I can feel chest muscles, stomach muscles, ribs, a smaller ass and thinner legs, it is like I am in someone else’s body except it is my body.  I do feel the same but I feel different body shape wise.  I guess I have to give myself some time to get used to the new me and not fall into the habit of over eating.  

That is another point I want to make which is I can’t let myself get fat again for it was not easy to get in the mind set of the Atkins Diet and it took years to get really ready to stop the sugars, the starches and the other carbohydrates.  I know that there are those who feel that the Atkins diet is problematic and not good but I feel that as long as I eat right, take my vitamins and stay away from high carbohydrates, I will be fine.  I would consider becoming a vegetarian but that diet is basically high carbohydrates, but I could make it more like an Atkins diet, but I can’t see myself as a vegetarian yet.  

Well let me tell you of my meals.  For breakfast I usually have chicken thigh or leg with a salad, although today I had a tofu salad because I ran out of chicken.  For lunch I had fish, tuna or salmon salad and green beans.  Lastly, for dinner I had for the last few days’ pork chops or chicken thigh or leg with sautéed garlic and onions and a salad.  I mean to imply that I am eating well and not starving myself except I am starving myself from high carbohydrates.  My only vice is Atkins protein bars and something called Think Tnin protein bars which for the Atkins bar it has eight grams of protein,  two grams of sugar and three grams of net carbohydrates, while the Think Thin bar has zero grams of sugar and 20 grams of protein.  Of course they both have artificial sweetening and chemicals like any other candy bar but it a vice I can live with.  There is no guilt when I am hungry and snack on a protein bar that will not add pounds to my body for I eat about four a day.  

I am also being careful about my cholesterol intake and that is why I am giving up red meats on the week days, but if there is no change in my next medical report then I will give up red meat entirely.  

Well, that is my report and I hope you all enjoyed it.  I also hope that if you are on some kind of diet that you are working with your doctors to make sure that you are not hurting your body and that your T-cells are up and that your viral load is down.  Have a great an Spectacular Spiderman weekend.  

Love,

red_Dragon888


Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on November 09, 2010, 05:57:46 am
This is a special note that I have stopped taking Navigil and caffeine since Friday for I have adjusted to the daily routine without needing to feel super charged all the time.  The coffee makes me a "go getter" but I get a severe sugar low and then I feel physically depressed.  The Navigil also makes me feel super but I don't need to feel that super.  What I am trying to do is just feel normal with some down time that feels just good during the day.  I guess before I would want to feel charged up all day long even into the night, but I have forgotten that I also need to let my body feel tired when it is tired.  I guess in the back of my head, when I started Atripla, I thought that it was taking all my energy from me an that I was more tired that usual.  That still maybe true, but I have to fine a balance of my normal highs and lows during the day and not create artificial ones.  Well, that all. 

Take care,

red_Dragon***  ---  Dragon Heart, Dragon Spirit and Dragon Soul
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on November 14, 2010, 12:17:20 pm

Well, good morning and salutations to all, and I must say that I am feeling very good about my situation for I am more proactive than I ever been in my life.  I should write a book on how to live life to the fullest and not be bogged down with the negative side of things. 

My weight is stable at 158 lbs., my blood pressure is 110/80, I am eating right and I am trying to work out at the gym five times a week for I really need to maintain my muscle strength and tone.  I also need to stretch my legs for since I have flare ups of arthritis in my hips, they have gotten tighter and need to get them back to some state where I can walk and run better.  Now I can run up a flight of stairs with no pain.  So far, I have found that if I use the weights to stretch, I get more flexible.  The problem is I need to do it most of the week and I guess this week will be the beginning week for that. 

I have decided to cheat a little once a month with a treat, but I will not go as far as once a week.  That would upset the balance I already have and I need to keep trim and fit.  I have also been able to use the treadmill to walk/run half and hour a day for five days a week.  I love to get a good sweat in just before the weight training.   I would still like to lose the extra fat on the legs but I am not in any hurry to get down to 154 lbs.  As long as I am eating right, exercising and keeping a positive mental attitude, I feel that things will come to me in time.  It is like that saying, “I am having my cake and eating it too.”

I am also taking K-PAX, which is a protein and vitamin supplement for nutrition.  It has sugar in, 9 grams in two scoops, it but I will let that go until it becomes a problem as in sudden weight gain.   Well, have a good day and stay healthy.

yours,

red_Dragon888




Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on November 23, 2010, 03:17:07 pm
Salutations to all and Happy Holidays:

Well, I have seen my nutritionist and all is well and life is good.  The only thing is she insists that I eat more fruit for more energy during the day; however, I am on the Atkins Diet and fruits are not on the menu.  I can understand the sentiment, but I have found that if I eat a little fruit, then it will be more fruit and then cakes, ice creams, pies and chocolate and more and more and more Oh my.  Lions and Tigers and Bears …  In other words, no I must stick to my diet and hold off, if not forever and a day, at least for the rest of my life.  I have been thru it before glorious and I won’t play the game again.

The Nuvigil is working great and I have more energy and get things done for that day, which I could not do before.  I do think it was the coffee or the caffeine that was also offsetting my daily mental and physical cycle, but I am off that now and the Nuvigil is the next best thing to caffeine.  No side effects as of yet.  Now I can set goals like get my degree, do more art classes, get a great job, blab, blab, blab… 
Life is good and Life is great.  For Thanks Giving, I plan to have a turkey and fish dinner with salad.  No desert except the love of losing weight and staying fit.  My weight has stabilized at 160 lbs. and according to my nutritionist, that is a good weight, but I would like to have more muscle and even less fat.  I want to look like a hotter that I already am. 
May you all have a Happy Holiday, a lovely Thanks Giving and a great weekend. 

Cheers,
red_Dragon888
 


Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on November 26, 2010, 02:55:18 pm
Some info that may interest you

Weight-Loss Maintenance — Mind over Matter?

David S. Ludwig, M.D., Ph.D., and Cara B. Ebbeling, Ph.D.
From the Optimal Weight for Life Program, Department of Medicine, Children's Hospital; and the Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School — both in Boston.


N Engl J Med 2010; 363:2159-2161November 25, 2010




    Many people can lose weight in the short term by reducing their intake of calories with the use of a variety of diets, ranging from low-fat to very-low-carbohydrate. However, few people successfully maintain their weight loss.1 One explanation for the poor efficacy of conventional diets relates to psychological factors, since the motivation to adhere to restrictive regimens diminishes with time, especially in an environment with virtually instantaneous availability of food. A second, perhaps more fundamental, explanation is that weight loss elicits physiological adaptations — principally an increase in hunger and a decrease in resting energy expenditure2 — that oppose ongoing weight loss.


    In the search for more effective strategies, diets that are low in glycemic index and moderately high in protein merit special consideration. The glycemic index describes the way in which foods affect blood glucose levels in the postprandial period, controlled for the amount of carbohydrate.3 The glycemic load, the arithmetic product of the glycemic index and the amount of carbohydrate, predicts postprandial glycemic response among foods with widely varying carbohydrate contents.4 Most highly processed grain products have a high glycemic index, whereas minimally processed grains, whole fruits, legumes, and nonstarchy vegetables tend to have a moderate or low glycemic index.


    The mechanisms relating glycemic response to the regulation of body weight have been examined in controlled feeding studies.5 Meals with a low glycemic index or glycemic load elicit acute hormonal and metabolic changes that may decrease hunger and energy intake. During weight loss, a reduction in glycemic load may attenuate the decline in resting energy expenditure that is thought to promote weight regain.6 Recently, a meta-analysis indicated that diets in which there was a reduction in the glycemic index produced moderately more weight loss than control diets,7 although the quality of the clinical trials has been limited by their small size, a failure to show adherence to treatment, and confounding.


    The glycemic response to carbohydrates is lowered when protein is ingested simultaneously, since protein delays gastric emptying and stimulates insulin secretion. Protein also displaces carbohydrates, as opposed to fat, from the diet because foods high in protein are also typically high in fat. Therefore, higher-protein diets tend to have a reduced glycemic load and might promote weight loss, at least in part, through the mechanisms discussed above.


    In addition, diets that are based on these principles may be less psychologically burdensome, because they do not severely restrict any macronutrient or major food group. However, the 2010 U.S. Department of Agriculture Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee considers the effectiveness of reducing the glycemic index to be unproven. Similarly, there is a lack of consensus regarding the optimal protein level for achieving and maintaining weight loss. A study in this issue of the Journal from the Diet, Obesity, and Genes (Diogenes) project8 addresses these knowledge gaps.


    Investigators from eight European countries randomly assigned 773 participants who had lost at least 8% of their initial body weight to one of four test diets, using a two-by-two factorial design (low-glycemic-index vs. high-glycemic-index diets and low-protein vs. high-protein diets), or to a fifth, control, diet. Assessment of dietary intake showed that there was a modest difference of about 5 glycemic-index units between the low-glycemic-index and high-glycemic-index groups and a difference of about 5 percentage points in protein content between the high-protein and low-protein groups. After 6 months, body weight differed by about 2 kg among the groups, with a direct relationship to glycemic load — lowest in the group assigned to the low-glycemic-index–high-protein diet, intermediate in the groups assigned to the low-glycemic-index–low-protein and the high-glycemic-index–high-protein diets, and highest in the group assigned to the high-glycemic-index–low-protein diet. Of note, study completion rates were significantly better among participants in the low-glycemic-index and high-protein diet groups.


    The study has several notable strengths, including the large number of participants and a multicenter, multinational design, providing evidence of effectiveness and generalizability. The apparent control for treatment intensity and behavioral methods across groups (although not across countries) allows for a fair testing of dietary hypotheses. Furthermore, the investigative team appears to have had scientific balance; one senior member had espoused a skeptical view of the glycemic index,9 providing confidence that the study was conducted and interpreted without unconscious bias. The primary limitation of the study is the short duration of follow-up. A 2-kg difference in body weight, by itself, has limited practical implications. But a diet that could effectively prevent weight regain over the long term would have major public health significance. In this regard, the 12-month and longer follow-up data will be informative.


    The observed effects on body weight were obtained from small mean differences in glycemic index and protein among the groups. In principle, more powerful methods for effecting behavioral change and improved availability of low-glycemic-index foods may facilitate the long-term adoption of diets with a substantially lower glycemic load and result in larger effects on body weight. Moreover, a low-glycemic-index diet may reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease independently of body weight,5 and data addressing this possibility will be forthcoming from the Diogenes trial.


    The present study contrasts, but does not necessarily conflict, with data reported by Sacks et al.,10 who assigned 811 people to one of four diets that differed in the percentage of total energy derived from carbohydrate, protein, and fat. In contrast to the protocol in the Diogenes trial, participants in all four groups were counseled to consume carbohydrates with a low glycemic index. Similar to the results in the Diogenes trial, the protein content of the diets at 6 months differed by only about 5 percentage points. After 2 years, no significant difference in body weight was found among the groups, although among subjects who completed the study, those who consumed higher-protein diets weighed about 1 kg less than those who consumed lower-protein diets (P=0.11).10 Together, these two studies suggest that the ratio of carbohydrate to fat has relatively little importance for weight control among persons consuming a low-glycemic-index diet, and higher protein intake may have additional benefits.


    The Diogenes study provides reassurance regarding three long-standing concerns about glycemic index: that measured values apply to individual foods only and have no relevance to mixed meals, that effects observed in clinical trials arise from confounding by macronutrients or fiber, and that the concepts are confusing and impractical for the general public. Indeed, the higher study-completion rate in the low-glycemic-index groups provides compelling evidence of the practicality of low-glycemic-index diets.


    Several recent clinical trials have shown no significant difference in weight loss among various popular diets, leading to the notion that dietary composition is less important than adherence to a diet, whatever it might be. However, this conclusion does not consider the fundamental relationship between psychology and physiology. A person's ability to maintain adherence over time may be influenced by the way in which a diet affects hunger and metabolism. Additional research is needed to clarify the mechanisms by which dietary composition regulates body weight and to devise novel strategies to effect behavioral changes.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on November 27, 2010, 07:44:55 am
Morning all and I hope that you all are having a good day. 

I have sinned, in the diet sense, and I had gotten off the Atkins Diet for Thanks Giving Day.  Well, Atkins does allow for a little cheating, so no big deal.  Either way, I had slices, all be it small, of apple crumb and pecan pies and enjoyed it.  I had skipped the sweet and baked potatoes, but I enjoyed the meal with friends.  This is the way I like to have my sweets, for if I can have them on Thanks Giving, Christmas and my birthday, then it is no big deal.  I have given up on breaded fried fish and shrimp for I need to eat more healthy and I am allergic to shrimp any way.  Who knows what other effects it has on my body.  I recently gave up eggs for I suspect that it is making my arthritis in my hips flare up more.   The Nuvigil fatigue fighting drug does take away the fatigue that the Atripla causes and I am more energetic and lively for my volunteer work.  Life is grand indeed.

My weight has stayed around 160 to 164 pounds and I still like to gain more muscle.  My workouts are going well and I just love the way I look in the mirror.  I do push myself for ego reasons and I like to challenge myself.  Well, have a good time and enjoy.  Happy Holidays.
yours,
red_Dragon888
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on December 06, 2010, 02:12:19 pm
Season Greeting and Happy New Year, or am I getting ahead of myself.

Well anyway, life has been grand and there is more to come and more to give.  The Atkins Diet is working out wonderfully, and with the workouts, climbing machine, and from time to time, a good olde hour walk, the body is keeping in better shape that when I was in my twenties.  Of course, I did not know that I had sugar addiction, problem digesting foods and other issues, but that is in the past and now it is time to look toward the future. 

This Sunday I did the unthinkable.  I had a medium size pizza and WOW, what a feeling.  I thought my head was going through some chemical changes an hour after that meal.  I think that the elements of the pizza, sorry, but I have to break it down to the molecular level always, some how help the brain make more connections.  I swear that I saw and felt electricity surging thru my head.  It was the weekend and even though I promise myself not to stray from the diet, I just felt like pizza and I had one.  After all, Dr. Atkins did say one could return to the foods one likes and as long as one does not to over do it.  Therefore, I followed that advice and the guilt went its merry way to a place of comfort.  Now I don’t see my diet as a “Boot Camp” style of eating.  Now I see it as a more flexible and natural way of eating. 

Actually, it is the winter months that I was most afraid of for that is when I usually get physically and mentally depress in which food is one of my choices for comfort.  I still hover around 160 to 163 lbs. and I feel motivated to work out at the gym but I am not a fanatic.   The chest and arms looks sexy good and the legs need more attention, which is why the time limit for the legs is six months.  After that, they got to go…  ;D

Now everything seems so simple.  Before, it was a struggle to lose the weight.  I did some things that were healthy, like work out until I drop, starvation, diet pills.  The other things I did were not so healthy and almost killed me, so I survived to tell the tale for you to listen, I guess.   My hopes for the future are to become more flexible with yoga and stretching and to run like a marathon man by the climbing and running machine.  Oh yeah, and look like Arnold back in the seventies when he was Mr. Universe…  :D

The pains in my hips are still there and a flare up does happen, but I am so glad that I did not get the hip replacement surgery that the doctors were pushing me towards for profit.  Even the nurses were saying it was no big deal.    Sorry, but after I heard that the replacements were only good for ten years and after that I would be wheelchair bound I thought “Hell No.”  Besides, no one is going to cut me up like a Thanks Giving turkey. Now I can walk and I take glucosamine and chondroitin for the joints in hopes it will repair the damage areas.  After all, last June I was using a cane and felt pain with every step.  Now I can walk the distance without any problems.  There is days when there is a slight pain, but that I can handle.  It is not as it was before when even waking up was painful.  Just getting out of bed was full of mind numbing pain.  Thank goodness, I found away with the weight lost and proper stretching.

So, that is my update and I hope it wasn’t boring.  I hope that if you are looking to lose weight, do it with care and make sure you have a doctor to monitor your progress.   I hope you all have a wonderful week and may good things come your way.  Happy Holidays to All and to All a good night.


red_Dragon888



Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: hope_for_a_cure on December 07, 2010, 05:38:19 pm
Holiday Diet starts tomorrow:
Party Mix, Sausage Biscuits, Rum Balls, Petits Fours, Santa Cookies, Bloody Marys, Hot Spiced Rums, etc......

Post Holiday Diet will start Dec 26th:  
Low Carb (only will allow myself a few carbs during one hour each day), with free weight workout, bicycling, and end of the day sauna.  I dont fit in my skinny jeans at this point but hope to by the time I meet many of you in Seattle this coming August. 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on December 09, 2010, 11:34:25 am
Holiday Diet starts tomorrow:
Party Mix, Sausage Biscuits, Rum Balls, Petits Fours, Santa Cookies, Bloody Marys, Hot Spiced Rums, etc......

Post Holiday Diet will start Dec 26th:  
Low Carb (only will allow myself a few carbs during one hour each day), with free weight workout, bicycling, and end of the day sauna.  I dont fit in my skinny jeans at this point but hope to by the time I meet many of you in Seattle this coming August.  
Well, be careful for over doing it has its risks.  Getting into the skinny jeans is one point, while the other points are to develop good eating habits, get heart healthy, watch the cholesterol levels, watch the salt, and stay healthy. To overindulge in the wrong foods or drinks, even for a short time, sounds like a giant step backwards and could be dangerous in the long or short run.   So really think about what is the cost of "Binge Eating."
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on December 12, 2010, 11:23:46 am
Good day to all,

Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance with all the trimmings…  That is the quest and the journey all wrapped up in one, for the keep the slim form is to remember to eat right most of the time or at least do not let the food intake get out of hand.  Now in this journey of a new slim body, there is the possibility that there is Candida over population in the bowels of the body, which can cause sugar urges.  To combat this, one must avoid milk products, vinegar, nuts, sugar and starches, for that is its food with the intake of acidophilus and probiotics to fight the infestation.  It is a war of infinite proportion and the worst war yet for it may have been chief culprit of the sugar cravings.   If  memory serves correctly, this has been a problem since early childhood, which took hold with all the candies, cakes, ice creams, et cetera, that has been consumed to not only feed the craving of hunger, physical and mental, but also the over population of Candida in the stomach. 

It is funny, that this entity can somehow send out signals to the brain-body to convince it that “sugar good” and “more chocolate please.”  It may sound a bit over dramatic, but that is how it feels.  It is like having a sneaky little “cookie monster” hiding in the body pulling ones strings insidiously.  Let the war begin, and let the best man or bacterium win.  Of course, it is also a long-term battle for Candida has the distinct ability to regroup back to its full negative potential.  Therefore, if Candida is the problem, there is a solution to lower it population.   Hopefully, slow and steady will win the war.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on December 23, 2010, 07:01:59 pm
Happy Holidays and hope all is well with you all.  After talking with a psychiatrist, he recommends that I see a gastrointestinal professional to check on my condition of stomach problems.  I hope he can give me good advice for I have had this problem since I was eight and I thought was it.  Apparently, the GI guy can better determine my condition and help me find a cure.  I feel that I am allergic to the chemicals or bacterium in the stomach.  If not allergic than I am sensitive to the chemicals leaking back into my system.  I guess it could be Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Leaky Gut Syndrome.  I almost feel like I am seeing a “Witch Doctor” to cure my ailment for I never thought that this could be cured.  I hope that I am wrong.

As for the diet, I think I am getting slimmer.  The only two pairs of slim pants that I own are not a little big. They must be 32 inch or 33 inch but the pants feel big.  I even have to wear slim/small  shirts.  I may have to resort to boys’ sizes at this rate.  I do feel that I could lose another inch on the legs and some on the waist.  I am perfectly healthy, with good numbers.  I have never been this slim this long and I am getting worried.  I will not go back to my old was of eating, but I guess there was some comfort being heavy.  For one, I never felt my ribs before.  Now I feel them all the time and it reminds me of pork, beef or lamb ribs.  Therefore, I have to convince myself that this is the way my body is suppose to be.  Slim, low cholesterol and low salt...  It is so hard to be immortal.  

Either way, it is a journey that I have taken and must complete.  I hope to be this slim by August end, then it is to Miami beaches.  

I hope you all are enjoying your Holiday and Hope you have a Brilliant New Year.  

Cheers,

red_Dragon888
  
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Jeff G on December 23, 2010, 07:18:44 pm
I was wondering if you have ever been diagnosed with an eating disorder ?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on December 25, 2010, 09:37:30 am
I was wondering if you have ever been diagnosed with an eating disorder ?
No.  I think I have a system that thrives on sugar when taken in excess makes me fat, and when the sugar is low, thrives on fat.  I am not starving myself for I eat chicken or fish, vegetables and salad with every meal and drink K-PAX protein/vitamin drink twice a day. I just never imagined that my legs and ass were that slim for they were always big.  I mean waist 39" big.  My waist line can not go below 29" for there is no where else to go but I can pinch an inch on my legs.  The funny thing is that I thought I was maintaining, but my system has other plans.  I will see my doctor Monday and see what he says.  Thanks for the concern though.  Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: hope_for_a_cure on January 16, 2011, 11:00:34 am
Well, be careful for over doing it has its risks.  Getting into the skinny jeans is one point, while the other points are to develop good eating habits, get heart healthy, watch the cholesterol levels, watch the salt, and stay healthy. To overindulge in the wrong foods or drinks, even for a short time, sounds like a giant step backwards and could be dangerous in the long or short run.   So really think about what is the cost of "Binge Eating."

Good Point RD!  I suppose I did exaggerate a bit in that post.  We had many goodies over the holidays and while I did not overindulge, I did enjoy a smorgasbord of delights.  The extra weight gained over that period is now gone (thanks to sensible eating and increased exercise).  I limit my carb intake to just one hour each day and find that is the best plan for me. 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on January 16, 2011, 12:06:29 pm
I'm having Quintão, a semi-soft raw, goats milk cheese (Portugal) aged 60 days that has black peppercorns added to it.  It will not cause me to gain weight.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: hope_for_a_cure on January 16, 2011, 12:10:39 pm
I'm having Quintão

YUMMMMM!  That sure sounds good.  I hope you have some good crackers and maybe some fruit to go with it. 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on January 16, 2011, 12:14:35 pm
YUMMMMM!  That sure sounds good.  I hope you have some good crackers and maybe some fruit to go with it. 

Indeed, simple water crackers -- I had a grapefruit earlier, greek yogurt, and a pot of Taiwanese Oolong.  And cigarettes!
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on January 16, 2011, 12:21:03 pm
OK... done with the cheese -- I'm moving on to brandy filled chocolates :)
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: skeebo1969 on January 16, 2011, 12:22:29 pm
And cigarettes!


F U
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on January 16, 2011, 12:26:36 pm

F U

Oh, a Camel will be just fab after the brandy filled chocolates, don't you think?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Rev. Moon on January 16, 2011, 12:36:00 pm
OK... done with the cheese -- I'm moving on to brandy filled chocolates :)

You are being so... decadent.  

In the meantime we had a bowl of oatmeal with blackberries, an egg-white (with mushrooms) omelette and a cuppa rooibos tea.

Rev. Moon & Mr. Hung
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: skeebo1969 on January 16, 2011, 12:38:54 pm
Oh, a Camel will be just fab after the brandy filled chocolates, don't you think?

Perhaps....  I can have just one.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on January 16, 2011, 01:21:42 pm
You are being so... decadent.  

In the meantime we had a bowl of oatmeal with blackberries, an egg-white (with mushrooms) omelette and a cuppa rooibos tea.

Rev. Moon & Mr. Hung


I had greek yogurt, coffee and Special K this morning, with 1/2 of a grapefruit.  I've not moved on to chicken salad on wheat and flax (toasted) bread and a DR. PEPPER.

I woke up at 4 AM for a yoga class :)
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Jeff G on January 16, 2011, 01:31:40 pm
I'm having Baileys and coffee and shot of insulin ... and skeebo , put down the fucking cigarettes already .
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: hope_for_a_cure on January 16, 2011, 01:49:23 pm
Just finished a serving of roasted turkey, wild rice, and peas.  The dark chocolate will have to wait until later this afternoon when I have my 'reward' hour.  Now its time for an afternoon walk.... I dont run unless something is chasing me. 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on January 16, 2011, 02:26:53 pm
I am now eating a bowl of walnuts as I wait for Jersey Shore to come on at 3 PM -- I missed last week's episode due to Klonnie.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: skeebo1969 on January 16, 2011, 02:41:42 pm



   I just smoked a blunt and into my second pot of coffee, watching the Seattle Seahawks get decimated by the Chicago Bears.  Miss P, MTV will be airing an extra episode tomorrow night of Jersey Shore.  We get a double dose this week..
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Jeff G on January 16, 2011, 03:22:44 pm
I'm making a dinner for a few friends tonight and we are having spaghetti with sausage and a side of salad , cheese cake for dessert .

I'm thinking Oxycontin for appetisers if the bitches are lucky but its so damn hard to get a toothpick in those little pills . 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: RAB on January 16, 2011, 03:27:41 pm


   I just smoked a blunt and into my second pot of coffee, watching the Seattle Seahawks get decimated by the Chicago Bears. 

Harrumph!   >:(

Seahawks aren't out of it yet mister!  (fading glimmer of hope?)

RAB

Who's not dieting.  And apologizes for the temporary hijack.   :P
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on January 16, 2011, 09:24:49 pm
omg... I just ate that entire box of brandy chocolates in about 8 hours.  Should I now move on to my pandan leaf and dark chocolate ice cream?
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: skeebo1969 on January 16, 2011, 11:19:36 pm
Harrumph!   >:(

Seahawks aren't out of it yet mister!  (fading glimmer of hope?)

RAB

Who's not dieting.  And apologizes for the temporary hijack.   :P

It was nice seeing Pete Carrol have a mental breakdown at the end there...  It's a different feeling than he got at USC. lol
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Rev. Moon on January 16, 2011, 11:30:08 pm
omg... I just ate that entire box of brandy chocolates in about 8 hours.  Should I now move on to my pandan leaf and dark chocolate ice cream?

Somebody's gon' have a major case of explosive-D if they keep at it.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: skeebo1969 on January 16, 2011, 11:34:35 pm
Somebody's gon' have a major case of explosive-D if they keep at it.

Earlier after I smoked that blunt I got a taste for some deviled eggs.  I ate an entire dozen... it doesn't feel real good. :-\  This is going to be a record, I know it.  I already checked the rules here and it doesn't say anything against posting those kind of pictures.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Rev. Moon on January 16, 2011, 11:50:14 pm
A dozen?  I wouldn't wanna be anywhere near ya and the nasty gas you're probably experiencing.  You are like a bio-weapon waiting to blow up.

I was a good boy today.  Ate apples, turkey, brown rice, a banana, some fantastic cheese from the gourmet shop in the Grove, and a salad.  

Time now for a delicious late snack consisting of some yoghurt and AIDS meds.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: phildinftlaudy on January 17, 2011, 12:01:02 am
I ate light today -
2 marinated New York Strip Steaks
Garlic mashed potatoes
Broccoli

Getting ready to fix a couple of cold cut sandwiches right now - seeing as I just took my Atripla a few minutes ago, it should make for a few good dreams tonight.
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on January 17, 2011, 08:35:47 am
I could never eat two steaks. 

I'm thinking Blue Valentine matinee followed by Chinese take out...
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: hope_for_a_cure on January 17, 2011, 08:40:51 am
Today:  Smoked bacon and grapefruit for breakfast, bowl of tomato soup for lunch with toast, and tonight will treat myself to chicken biryani from the new Indian Restaurant in the area. 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: Miss Philicia on January 17, 2011, 08:47:45 am
I trust you utilized a grapefruit spoon

(http://i1007.photobucket.com/albums/af197/bedstuy65/ist2_2934342-grapefruit-spoon.jpg)
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: hope_for_a_cure on January 17, 2011, 09:05:24 am
I love those little grapefruit spoons, and yes, I just used one to scoop out all that juicy goodness.  Maybe its just my imagination, but the citrus from FL this year is better than I can remember it being for years (full of juice and flavor). 
Title: Re: Are you dieting now?
Post by: red_Dragon888 on January 24, 2011, 11:05:59 am
lol  I am on and off the low carb diet, mostly off because the winter make me weak for sweets.  I did buy skinny or thin jeans and I refuse to out-size them.  Winter is tough here in NYC.  I mean 20 degrees, come on...