Food....Friend or Enemy..I need some advice - Diet & Nutrition Message Board

mframe · 10-08-2008, 03:00 PM

I am posting because I would love some advice about my diet and exercise. I am brand new to posting on a message board, but I do hope to receive some helpful information. My goal is to loose at least 10 pounds, firm up, and have more energy and feel better about myself. I am 31 years old, 5’2” and weight about 117-120 pounds (don’t own a scale, they are NOT my friend) I use how my clothes fit to gage if I’ve gained or lost weight….needless to say, my pants are tight!

I really try to eat healthy, but I don’t know if I am eating the right foods at the right times. I love carbs! However, I do try to only eat whole grain breads and pastas. I don’t eat red meat, but I do eat chicken, white meat turkey and fish. I love all dairy, and I try to eat the part skim, low-fat cheeses. I love fruit! I eat fruit everyday, but I know that fruit has a lot of sugar. I also eat vegetables, I usually have salads for lunch with fat-free dressing. My husband and I do drink alcohol, usually red wine 2 or 3 times a week, and I know that alcohol contains many empty calories…..

My exercise is inconsistent, I do try to exercise at least 3 times a week, either walking or running. Like I said, I would love to loose 10 pounds and am looking for what a balanced diet looks like, when to eat, serving sizes, and how often. I would also love to know if there are any safe and effective diet pills that would help me in my efforts. Thanks to all who are willing to help!!! Michelle

JohnR41 · 10-10-2008, 11:30 AM

Michelle,

You're not overweight. I checked with a BMI calculator and your BMI is about 22. Normal weight is between 18.5 and 24.9... If you go down to 110 lbs. your BMI will be about 20. There's nothing wrong with that and it might be a more healthful weight for you.

If you "love carbs", that's likely what's causing you to gain weight. I'm glad to hear that you're concentrating on whole grains. But even if your carbs are whole grain, you need to set limits on how much of them you eat. First of all, I would suggest that you limit yourself to one form of starchy carb per meal. For example, you might choose between bread, potato, or rice. Then measure the amount. Perhaps you might have one slice of bread, one small potato or a 1/4 cup whole grain rice (measured uncooked).

Fresh fruit is good but there again you need to set limits. Bananas are considered starchy so try to limit yourself to half of a medium size banana. One small apple or half of a large apple would be fine. Grapes: About half a cup? Or, one small orange. Avoid canned fruit if possible, especially if it's packed in heavy syrup.

Glad to hear you don't eat red meat but protein should be measured too. For example, for your size, about 3 oz. of chicken would be about right.

Fat free dressings probably contain sugar and/or corn syrup. Try using a teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil and 2 teaspoons of vinegar on your salad.

tUrRrRa · 10-12-2008, 11:44 PM

I agree that you are at a healthy weight, but I understand! I wanted to drop about 10 pounds and am happy at 115 now that I've lost the weight.

What worked for me was eating LESS carbs (but still having some), eating more fresh foods (less frozen meals, even if they are healthy), more salads with lean meats in it (like grilled chicken), and lots of fruits and veggies. I agree that some fruits aren't the best choice, but I stick with various berries. They are very good for you. I even buy them in the frozen section and make a smoothie with some fat free yogurt, skim milk, and low calorie whey protein powder.

You may also want to try eating smaller meals, more often. This really kept my metabolism going! Keep up with your workouts too. Really notice if you are making progress and how good it makes you feel and you will be more likely to keep it up. I mark the days I work out on my calendar and it keeps me motivated.