Today.... is the start of a healthier lifestyle

At the beginning of the year I followed the 5:2 eating plan. I've gone a bit off-piste lately, but determined to get back into the routine. More importantly for me, my weight hasn't gone back on. I would thoroughly recommend this plan, as on two days I don't have to think about lunch and take myself out for a long walk instead. I plan my weekly meals before I do my food shop, which for me is great. If you're not sure on 2 fasting days, I would urge you to give it a go (as long as your GP confirms it's ok, as it's not for everyone). You still get to eat on the 2 fasting days, just very reduced calories. Whatever route you take to loose your weight and get healthier - good luck.

[IndigoBlue61]

Hello Hidden and welcome to the Weight Loss Forum

Well done on maintaining your weight during recent months, that's a real achievement and should be applauded. 😀

I have tried the 5:2 diet and it nearly killed me!! Lol 😂 But if it works for you, good luck! We are all individuals and finding the right plan is key to success.

Here are a few suggestions on how to get the most out of the forum. Please note if you are using the new HU App many of these features are not available so I suggest you use the full website version.

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. 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, as well as a new Daily Diary, if you wish to take part. The posts can always be found in the Events section on the 'home' page. And if you just want to chat, to say hello or share any news or struggles then look out for What's Happening Today thread.

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

Best wishes

Anna

[EllaMidlands]

Hi, welcome. How much control do you need to have on the 5 days?

[Hidden in reply to EllaMidlands]

Hi, you need to eat within your daily recommended allowance on your 5 "normal" days. If you feel more comfortable planning a whole weeks meals, that works too. But I like the freedom of only having to think about 2 days and then being sensible on the other 5 - very liberating. If you're going to give it a go, don't even think about food during the day - you may get hungry, but distract yourself with a walk, some housework, read a book and drink lots of water. I just tell myself, it's only another ... hours to dinner time and I won't die of starvation before then! I read up on the health benefits before I started and thought I would give it a go, I'm really glad I did. Good luck if you're planning this route for your weight loss.

[EllaMidlands in reply to Hidden]

I just wondered how it works. Thanks, its interesting hear what different people do.

[13Valerie in reply to EllaMidlands]

Ellamidlands is that a 6 stone badge or do my eyes deceive me!! Go girl and what's your number 1 tip?

[EllaMidlands in reply to 13Valerie]

Hi, thanks for making me feel good. I have lost just over 6 stone but I still weigh just under 17 stone so a long way to go. My tip would be to avoid sugar - having a bit definitely makes me want to have more.

[13Valerie in reply to EllaMidlands]

I find the same with sugar. It's really addictive isn't it? I have found too that it's easier to avoid having the first sweet than to resist the next.

You've got this .. just keep doing what you're doing and best wishes