Hi everyone,

I am recovery still and always from an ed. Lately I have put on 4 kilos despite eating less and wonder whether I am slowing my normally fast metabolism. Lately I have been eating more carbs especially potatoes and pasta at night and wonder whether this is why. I am exercising alot as usual but have limited my protein intake somewhat. I seem to gain these few kilos every 6 months then lose them for no reason. Could it be the carbs? I still take protein shakes and maybe these arn't working. I seem to be getting heavier by the day despite less food. Any thoughts? I am thinking of just eating protein as I'm getting very bloated and freaked out.
Mel

Hello...
I guess people are so different in their metabolisms and nutritional needs, it is hard to just answer that question... as for me, I eat mostly carbs and little protein too (vegetarian), but I don't tend to gain weight from it. I don't think eating only protein is good for your system. Since your weight changes are cyclical, maybe it has to do with something other than nutrition? Maybe the season/weather? I don't know...

Kathrin

You could review your carbs and see if they are largely coming from refined grains. Look at whole grains like brown rice, oats, barley, flax seed, whole wheat berries etc. and see if that would make a difference. If you check out the internet about whole grains, I think you would be astonished how much healthier they are than refined grain products such as you find in typical store-bought processed pastas.

One time I tried to make homemade whole grain pasta with my food processor. It worked out OK, except I had a hard time making it into strips after I rolled in flat. I suppose if a person read up on it, it's possible to make our own wholesome pastas. I tried it a couple of times, but gave up. I now prepare other natural whole grain foods instead.

For my diet, I try the best that I can, to stay with natural non-processed foods. It's hard at first, but you might give it a try and see if you notice any improvement in a few weeks or months.

Hi Kathrin and Rhody,
Thanks for your advice. I agree it wouldn't be very healthy to just eat protein. I would prefer to eat only carbs as I seem to be always craving them. I just want to give my metabolism a boost somehow. It could be seasonal or stress related. I do eat refined carbs mainly which I think may be the problem. I will try the less refined variety and see if this helps. I think I need to get back to healthier eating. I am really tempted to binge but will try to avoid this path hopefully.
Mel