Trying

[KATHT111]

So I'm trying to lose weight as I always am but, recently I've noticed how much my weight I have put on and it's getting to me. I eat around 1400/1500 calories a day I don't exercise as much as I should / could but travelling 80 miles a day and the stresses of a teacher gets to me. Any advice or meal ideas really appreciated.

[IndigoBlue61]

Hello KATHT111 and welcome to the weight loss forum ☺ Yes, stress and fatigue can both play a part as they disrupt our hormones. But it could be many other things too. But first let me welcome you to the forum ☺

The first place to look is at the Pinned posts section to the right of your screen (bottom if you're using a mobile), read the Welcome Newbie thread first and move through to the challenges, where we hope you'll find at least one that will appeal to you ☺

Move down to the Topics, to find a variety of threads, collated into specific topics for ease of access and we ask that you also 'file' your own threads, so that others won't miss your important news ☺

Have a look at the NHS 12 week plan, as many people have had success with it. Also use the BMI checker to find your target calories, it's important to eat enough. This was a major turning point for me, realising I could eat anything I wanted as long as the calories are accounted for. But it's not just about the calories, food quality is important too. ☺

Don't forget to take your starting measurements and a 'before' picture, as they can be very motivating on days that the scales refuse to co-operate ☺

The forum also have group weigh-ins every day if you wish to take part. The posts can always be found in the Events section on the 'home' page ☺

We've found that to get the best out of this community, we need to be active on the forum, as it's where we exchange information, get motivation and inspiration and make friends. We hope that you'll join us here, regularly, too ☺

You'll notice a grey box next to people's names, these are achievement badges, and as a new member you may have a 'Newbie' badge. If you have any questions or would like a Newbie badge please just ask ☺

Best wishes

Anna

[Hidden]

I am also a teacher. I really do appreciate the stress and lack of free time that comes with it. I've found that taking lunch with me to work and giving myself a dedicated lunch break to eat in (even if it's only 5-10 mins) has really helped as getting food in the canteen has proved trialling in the past! Far too many chips and things about. Also by stopping work it does mean that I properly concentrate on my food and don't just eat it without noticing!

I make myself eat something healthy and simple like porridge or weetabix before I rush out to work, then a packed lunch as above and then just try to be a bit sensible for dinner.

First of all, are you sure you're actually eating 1400 - 1500 calories per day? It can be really easy to miscalculate sometimes. Secondly, high stress can cause a large amount of the cortisol hormone in your body that can stop you from losing weight (according to my endocrinologist). Could be worth being tested if you are struggling and are sure you're counting correctly?

[KATHT111 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for the reply I'm using the my fitness pal app where I scan my food and I do weigh them also. The app said I should be eating a minimum of 1592 a day so maybe that's where I'm going wrong.

[Hidden in reply to KATHT111]

Do you mind me asking how much you weigh / how tall you are? Maybe you're under eating (especially due to being on your feet all day as a teacher)?

[KATHT111 in reply to Hidden]

I'm 12.4 and 5ft 6

[Hidden in reply to KATHT111]

From the NHS website, it looks like you should be eating more than that (around 1600 - 1800 calories). Maybe try eating more for a few weeks and see if it helps?

[KATHT111 in reply to Hidden]

Yes think I will. Thanks so much! Do you use the 12 week plan from the NHS?

[Hidden in reply to KATHT111]

I've used a combination of that and the No S Diet. Both have worked quite well for me.

[IndigoBlue61]

Very useful advice there from Hidden

Good luck KATHT111

[castiggy]

When I was going through a really, really tough time a counsellor told me this one simple exercise that calms you down and helps relieve stress. Just close your eyes and follow where your breath goes. It slows your breathing and so calms you down. So simple, but so effective. This is the start of your journey so just take one step at a time. Good luck.

[DRS54]

Good luck on your journey. Your travel must make it really difficult to feel motivated for exercise once you get home. When I used to work in London and lived in Bucks, I got over the problem by arranging my exercise for straight after work - once I opened the door to my house, the armchair was far too near and comfy. Or perhaps you could take a walk in your lunch hour - if you get one?