Maintainers' Club March 2023 - Weight Loss Support

Weight Loss Support

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Maintainers' Club March 2023

155 Replies

Hello fellow maintainers' and welcome to those who are joining us for the first time. This is where you find support to keep maintaining your ideal weight.

I have posted a picture of daffodils as they are my favourite flower and I always put some in my trolley when shopping. They also remind me that spring is in the air. To me this means lighter mornings and longer days. It also reminds me its not long to get rid of baggy jumpers and into lighter clothes. Its a good incentive to watch that weight.

Christmas is far behind us and we have warmer weather on the way so what are your plans to get into those summer dresses.

Once Spring is here I am busy gardening so I don't focus on eating so much and find it easier to maintain. Lighter nights mean I will be out walking and not sitting in front of the television snacking.

Hope you are all well and look forward to hearing how you are all doing so come and chat whenever you can.

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155 Replies
TheTabbyCat profile image
TheTabbyCatAdministrator16kg

Thanks for hosting Carer53, what a lovely picture.

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer

Hello thanks for hosting this month- last month was not a good month weight wise- went to my parents since my dad was poorly (in hospital) so went to support my mam and I got up to 55+kg (my goal os 53kg). The sweets and wine gums in the car when travelling up North reappeared and other snacks whilst I was up there didn't help! I am back up this weekend so I have decided no sweets for the car journey! I am in the upper 53kg range so I would like to get back to my target range by the end of the month🤞 Also the large bags of crisps have snuck into my diet, I had done so well with either not buying crisps or if I did just buying the small packs and now I am back up to the 150g bags:( So its back tpo knuckling down and getting back on track

in reply toRG07

Hi RG. First let me say how sorry I am to hear about your Dad. I too did not do so well last month. I did so well over Christmas only going 2lb over weight then came Valentines day followed by a few more nights out. This month like you am feeling more positive. I dropped the crisps 2 years ago and not eaten them since but lately the odd bag of sweets has been added to my shopping trolley. I have never eaten sweets before so I have no excuse. I went to the theatre recently and bought a bag to eat during the show and now they seem to pop up weekly. Thats my goal this month to give up buying sweets on a weekly basis. You have been doing so well lately but it can be stressful if someone close to you is ill. It is also hard if staying in some ones else's house. Lets try together you giving up crisps and me the sweets. I want to lose a little before the warmer weather comes. Good luck and hope your Dad gets better too X

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

thanks the test will be today since I’m food shopping for the next few days before I go up north so hopefully I’ll manage to avoid the crisps and sweets aisles🙏

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

well I resisted the sweets aisle when I went to the store- good job it wasn’t my usual store so didn’t know which aisle the sweets were on and since I’m at work all day tomorrow won’t have the opportunity before I travel up north so should be ok- just need to worry about the journey back😄

in reply toRG07

Well thats a good start. I am off to the supermarket today so lets hope I can be as strong as you. X

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

🤞

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply toRG07

Sorry to hear your Dad is poorly. It doesnt sound like you are way off your goal so just keeping the glove box empty on your next trip should do the trick. Good luck!

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply toIronqueen

thanks I know I can do it it just doing it!

in reply toRG07

Sorry to hear about your parents RG07 and I understand that need to have something to nibble on in the car when otherwise you would be chewing your lip with worry! I'm in the same boat at the moment, worrying about elderly relatives, so I feel for you. Hope they recover well and that you can get back on track.

in reply toRG07

Sorry to hear about your parents RG07 and I understand that need to have something to nibble on in the car when otherwise you would be chewing your lip with worry! I'm in the same boat at the moment, worrying about elderly relatives, so I feel for you. Hope your dad recovers well and that you can get back on track.

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

thanks I started sucking on sweets so I wouldn’t feel thirsty on the long journey and then I find 2 packets only lasted one way🤨

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply toRG07

Would sugar free sweets in the car help?

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply toBee-bop

must admit not thought about that will have to have a look

in reply to

Hi Tt. Sorry to hear you too are worrying about elderly parents. Life and stress tend to get in the way of our healthy eating . We just have to keep trying. I tell myself each day is a new day. Sometimes I have a bad day but start over again the following day. I have not done so well lately but last Sunday I put on a skirt and I could swing it around my waist where a year ago I could barely do up the zip so I cant be doing that bad. I am not far off my maintenance range so hope to do better this month. X

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply toRG07

Are things settling now RG07 ?

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply toBee-bop

well I’m just under 54kg but crisps and wine gums still an issue I will just have to knuckle down and get focused on it

in reply toRG07

Morning RG07. How are you doing.? I hope things are better with your Dad. Been thinking about you and hope all is well. X

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer

Hi Carer53

Reporting in for the start of a new month. I'm maintaining around the middle of my range (52 - 57kgs). Thankfully no sweets or crisps in the house to tempt me , and Ill be keeping away from any Easter eggs. Ice cream - especially at the cinema - is my favourite so that would be my challenge to give up for the month.

in reply toIronqueen

You are doing really well and I feel encouraged by you. Maybe we could all give up one thing for the month of March and see how we do. I love a challenge. I'm staying away from the sweets when I go shopping. I do not normally keep anything tempting in the house but my Grandchildren were due to visit for the weekend so the chocolate cake and biscuits were bought and then they cancelled so guess who ate them. New start today. I'm focused. I had a fruit smoothie for breakfast and going to have carrot soup for lunch and chicken salad for tonight . X

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply to

That sounds really focused Carer53 ! Is it still going well?

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply toIronqueen

Well done for getting into the middle of your range there. How are you managing that ?

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply toBee-bop

Hi Bee-bop

I am using MFP app to track my calories. My daily allowance to maintain my current weight is 1750 and although I often got over this ( for past week daily average was actually 1800 per day as calculated by MFP ) I balance that out with exercise . I usually get to the gym 3 times a week plus I do an outdoor in the park 'boot camp' for ladies over 55 :-)

I have put a lot of my favourite dinner recipes into MFP so I have a quick way to check my intake each day

No foods are off limits but I am mindful of the amount of bread, wine and ice cream I eat as these can be my downfall . Especially dinners out. I know I cant overindulge on any of these - I try and avoid having bread /starter, and keep to 2 glasses wine max. Then I can have an ice cream🍨

in reply toIronqueen

What a good plan you have there. I too am back to writing down everything I eat and calorie counting. I know what I can and cant eat but by writing it down it helps me not to snack. I also plan my meals for the week so I only buy what I need. When out eating I always went for the cheese cake but now its ice cream for me too. I also allow wine when out but not at home anymore. I am lucky in that if I entertain at home most my friends do not drink alcohol. I am really happy with my weight at the moment but know I cant take my eye off the ball. You also exercise lots too. I can only do walking or swimming due to health problems. I do walk everyday and swim once a week. I also love gardening so that helps. Reading a post like yours really encourages me so thank you. X

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply to

Sounds like you are also making sure you keep on track by planning your meals and that means no extras in the house that need to eaten. I enjoy my outdoor exercise class - which I also walk to and from the park for - so its my day I get my most steps for the week. Weather can be a challenge though so I wrap up warm,

in reply toIronqueen

Hi Ironqueen Having an exercise class in the park sounds great. We only did that during covid when gyms etc were closed. x

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply toIronqueen

Good plan to cut back on some things to be able to have a treat instead.

hjskev profile image
hjskevHostMaintainer2 stone in reply toIronqueen

Hi I use MFP too. I fill in my diary almost every day. I only have two friends on there and they are American and I can't really relate to their food diaries as they eat food I've never heard of. I don't want loads of friends because it would be time consuming. but I would love to have a friend from the uk whose food I can relate to. Would you be interested in friending me on there? I would find it really useful.

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply tohjskev

Hi hjskev - sorry for not getting back sooner - I dont always check in to this site every day. I havent used any of the community features of MFP for the same reasons as you as I dont want to spend too much time on my phone. I prefer this site where you can pop in when you like. Have you checked out the daily diary group where a great variety of plans are shared? I found it very useful when I started here.

Good luck with avoiding temptation Ironqueen

Hello     Hidden and thanks for hosting. Well I started February with good intentions, and rejoined the Daily Diary which really did help me focus and stay on track and lose a couple of pounds which brought me back within sight of my target range at least! But then we had OH's Big Birthday weekend away, with lots of feasting with family, and as is so often the case, I managed the weekend okay, just to fall off the wagon afterwards with eating up all the sweet leftovers, and then craving more!

And now I have the added worry of two close family members, very frail and elderly and both poorly, which will involve some long journeys to visit and overnight stays, so March is not going to be an easy month. But I will try and stick with the Daily Diary, as it helps keep me accountable to myself. (It's very different to when I first used it years back, when everyone was either calorie counting or doing LCHF - people just say what they are planning to eat. But that's OK - that's all I'm doing!)

Have a good month, fellow Maintainers!

elliebath profile image
elliebathMaintainer in reply to

Hope your visits to the "elderlies" aren't too tiring for you, and you find time for yourself as well.

It is that time of life TT, as I too am making weekly care visits (in opposite directions) to my sister 80, and mother in law 90 .

in reply toelliebath

Seems like we’re in the same boat! Things have settled down a bit with both of them in hospital at the moment, but we jump every time the phone rings. Very stressful, and not conducive to healthy meal planning! I was doing well last month, 9st 8lb, only two over the top of my target range, but in no time I’ve shot back up to 9st. 11.5lb. I’d like to get that off again before we (hopefully, depending on relatives’ continuing to get well) go off on holiday the last week of March. Keep keeping on, elliebath xx

in reply to

Morning Tt. We seem to both be about the same weight. I managed to stay at 9st 8lbs after Christmas but went astray in February. Like you I find one or two days off plan and my weight quickly goes up to 9st 11lbs. It must be so hard when you have so much stress to deal with. I hope family members get well enough for you to get away for a holiday. I have no plans for eating out for the rest of this month and I am doing much better. I weighed this morning and I was 9st 9lbs so nearly there. I bought salad food this week only to wake up to snow on Wednesday, Thank fully its gone now but still very cold for March. Do remember to look after yourself too and hopefully things will improve X

in reply to

I misread that and thought it said you had no plans for eating the rest of this month!🤣 Well done on getting towards your goal. I'm back on track currently, but due to dash 250 miles down south again on Wed/Thursday, so it's motorway sandwiches and take aways again, which always throw me off kilter. We take our on own the journey down, but are obviously obliged to buy something on the way back home.

in reply to

Oh thats a long way to travel. How often do you do that? It is far harder to keep on track when your not at home. I am off to see a friend this afternoon and I know she will bring the biscuits out so I am already telling myself I can resist. X

in reply to

Hope you resisted those biccies! We have the worst of all worlds at the moment - we’re in Yorkshire, one very elderly aunty in Sussex and I’m her only relative. My sister in law is in Scotland. So we have very long journeys in either one direction or the other once a week at the moment. 😳

in reply to

You definitely will need a holiday after all that. I did resist the biscuits but they were tempting but as I had food ready in my fridge for tea I thought of that instead. X

elliebath profile image
elliebathMaintainer in reply to

Hope you get your holiday OK, I'm sure you're ready for it.

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply to

It can be difficult to stay on track even you are worried about other people and having to add visits that take time and energy and can lead to eating on the hoof. Good luck with staying on track despite these extra events and using the DD 👍

Herman7275 profile image
Herman7275Restart June 2024

Tabby Cat suggested that I look up this sight, I have been here some time, been on a low carb diet since 2019, been stagnat for 6 months, still working trying to find interest in finding new ideas,recipes, friends in challenge to start loosing another 50 lbs. I need your help !!!

Welcome Herman 7275 This is where we have reached our target weight and support each other to maintain there. Sometimes you can reach a weight and remain there some time. This can be very stressful and easy to give up but the answer is to keep going. Tweaking what you eat can sometimes help. We all lose weight in different ways. Some of us calorie count some low carbs and many other different ways. You use the word diet but try and look at it as a change for life. If you eat healthy meals and exercise more you should start to see a difference. Have you looked around the forum as some offer weigh ins and challenges . You have not said much about your self so maybe you have reached the weight your body should be. How much have you lost so far? I started the NHS healthy eating plan which is a 12 week plan in 2019 and lost 2 stone . It took me about 2 years to reach my desired weight. I found it impossible to stay at that weight so moved my target weight and give myself 7lb range. This worked for me. By chatting to others on this site I have maintained ever since. What ever you decide do not give up and remind yourself how well you have done so far. You are welcome to come and join us for support but also search the forum and you will learn a lot. Good luck X

BridgeGirl profile image
BridgeGirlAdministrator2 stone in reply to

tagging Herman7275

Herman7275 profile image
Herman7275Restart June 2024 in reply to

In 2019 I was put on a low carb diet by liver drs & associated weight clinic. Because I was diagnosed with fatty liver, fibrosis & cirrhosis...I was told I need to loose 125 lbs and exercise. I weighed in at 328lbs. I was told that because I had been a diabetic for 35 yrs , I was a victim of NASH. NAFLD. I started low carb diet and entered a slow down period through covid period. Then sold my home and wife of 45 yrs asked me for divorce and her independence. After I had been taking care of her & house for 25 yrs. So I am still attached with liver dept of IU Medical Center of Indianapolis, IN.

in reply toHerman7275

Morning H7275. I am just wondering if you have come up with a plan how you are going to kick start losing a few more pounds. You have had a lot to deal with so maybe you need more time to work things out. Did you get to search around the forum or find any inspiration from others. X

Herman7275 profile image
Herman7275Restart June 2024 in reply to

I have read some other peoples, but other then my last exercise was riding a mountain bike and still looking for recipes, I am do back to diet dr end of march, hope to be doing better by then, got hurt trying to help handicap friend, friday night. Severely smashed a thumb. But thankyou for allowing me in to this sight, I have to take sister in law to hospital today, so will have alot time to read & research. My will is there, but my health has been rough trying to keep pushing myself to do what is expected of me!!! By the drs and other people that have been relying on me, have been trying to think more of myself for a change. Thankyou for your thoughts...

in reply toHerman7275

Oh so sorry to hear about your hand. Hope it gets better soon. Remember this is not a race but a long term plan. You can try downloading healthy recipes on your phone. I followed the NHS healthy eating plan and found it good. It taught me how to use more veg in place of so much meat. I make healthy choices now without thinking about it. I do not buy crisps biscuits or cake and eat fruit instead. I make lots of home made soups and eat lots of vegetables. Of course like most people on here I do have what I call a bad day but the answer is to have more good days than bad days and to get straight back on track. This is where this forum helps. We encourage each other to stay focused. If as you say you are staying the same weight try tweaking what you eat or think what it is that is keeping you there. It will not be long before you see your Dr so maybe just be kind to yourself for now as you have had a lot to deal with X

Herman7275 profile image
Herman7275Restart June 2024 in reply to

Yes ,thats sure!! Sometimes more than what I thought I could or should!! As most people I am my own worst enemy!!?? But thanks for giving some things to think about and tips to try !!! Will look forward to any helpful hints you or others may have in my behalf!!

in reply toHerman7275

Yes keep popping in and you will find lots of advise. We are all our own worst enemies. We know what to do but life just gets in the way. I find planning what I am going to eat each day in advance helps . Also try not to keep lots of treats in the house. Good luck X

Herman7275 profile image
Herman7275Restart June 2024 in reply to

Yes ok I will keep checking in,thankyou

in reply toHerman7275

Good morning 7275. How are you doing. Did you work out a plan on how to kick start your weight loss. Its hard when your at a stand still. Don't give up as you have done so well up to now. X

Herman7275 profile image
Herman7275Restart June 2024 in reply to

Well I am guilty of not doing anything!! Have been busy doing for family, taking care of granddaughter!! ( Which until this new marriage I never had grandchildren!! Now I have 5, this granddaughter thats 11 tomorrow thinks I am Awesome) but still need to get back at it!!! Havn't felt good last 2 wks, hard to keep pushing!!! But I promise I will get back at it !!!

in reply toHerman7275

The time has to be right for you. You will get there. I know what you mean about Grandchildren my hubby inherited 4 when we got married . He is amazing with them though . His grandchildren live away so we do not see them as often where as mine live local. Maybe the warmer weather will get you motivated to kick start. X

Herman7275 profile image
Herman7275Restart June 2024 in reply to

Yes hope to get started riding my bike, less that I have to do!! I will let you &;everyone know if I succeed!! Trying to get back to a stricter low carb diet, I did it before, I can do it again !!!

in reply toHerman7275

Thats the attitude. I never learnt to ride a bike until I was in my fifties. When I was a child I never had one as we lived at the top of a very steep hill. My children encouraged me when I was older as they went riding with their children. I must admit I was not very good and prefer the ones at the gym even if they can be boring. I do however love walking and not put off by all these youngers running past me. Good luck with your plan and let us know how its going. X

Herman7275 profile image
Herman7275Restart June 2024 in reply to

I will, I keep coming back to a stricter low carb diet, but have not been in good health for last 3 months. But am stubborn will get back to riding my bike, walking & stationary bike cause more pain to lower back!

in reply toHerman7275

I know what you mean about back pain. I have suffered all though covid with back pain and it is only now that I have been able to get it under control. I do find exercising is much better for it than sitting in one place for two long. I go for a walk everyday and that helps. Our health has a big impact on how we feel and can affect what we eat. Its getting the right balance. Good luck X

Herman7275 profile image
Herman7275Restart June 2024 in reply to

Thankyou. ,will let you know how I do.

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply toHerman7275

You sound as if you have a rough time lately and maybe you need to to concentrate on what is right for you. As Hidden there are a lot of posts that you could have a look at such as the Daily Diary where you can record what you plan to eat for the day and get suggestions and support from others healthunlocked.com/weight-l... or weigh yourself weekly and get support from others whether you've goner up, down or stayed the same healthunlocked.com/weight-l... and there is this for recipe ideas- though not just low card healthunlocked.com/weight-l... or there are other communities that are Health related and one is lowcarb high fat group which maybe able to help you with recipes healthunlocked.com/lchf-diet. Good luck

Herman7275 profile image
Herman7275Restart June 2024 in reply toRG07

Ok maybe your right, just seems there is so much to decide, yes have been thru so much, I go see my diet dr Thursday which wants me to start on Ozempic , which have to check tomorrow to see 1st if I can offord 1st. He will not be happy most likely have gained some this time???

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply toHerman7275

good luck in whatever you decide

Herman7275 profile image
Herman7275Restart June 2024 in reply toRG07

Good Day ! I saw my diet dr. this morning and wasn't too depressed with my results for my early spring appointment. They gave me an INBODY exam which will measure the true assessment of my body in 60 seconds. So in looking at those results, I havn't wavered that much in 12 weeks.But he has ordered the Ozempic for me to try if I will be able to afford it. So we will see how it all works out!! Thankyou for your kind words!!

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply toHerman7275

congratulations that apart from having to start new medication things were better than you thought it would be😁 hopefully this good news will help to motivate you and keep you on track to loosing weight

Morning RG How did your weekend go. I hope your Dad is feeling better. Did you manage to stay off the crisps. I did not buy any sweets this weekend but ate a bowl of trifle which some one made for me. I have a more positive mind this week and have planned what I am going to eat. X

moreless profile image
morelessAdministrator7 stone in reply to

Tagging RG07

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

Hello thank you for asking- my weekend was ok but a few hours after I left my parents my mam fell and broke her upper arm whilst bringing the washing in! So my sister came down the next day and stayed with them both until last Friday and now I am up parent sitting for 2.5 weeks! My mam has to wear a sling but she went for a repeat scan and the Drs are happy that it starting to heal but she still needs to wear the sling but can take it out for short periods as long as she keeps it low- the x-ray didn't look very good I must say when i saw it yesterday.

This will be a challenge weight wise since I usually put on weight when I visit my parents but at least I am in charge of the meals since I have to do the cooking and shopping since my mam is one handed at present- the only good bit of news was that she broke her left arm since she is right handed. I am hoping to stay around the lower 54kg range and so far I am on track, though I am limited on my walks- only able to go out for short walks and this weeks apart from 2 days rain is forecast every day so it will be pot luck if I manage to fit any walks in this weeks, though that is due to the weather rather than my care duties:)

in reply toRG07

Oh RG That is awful. Hope your mam is better soon. Its not easy to stick to plan when out of your normal routine. You have had a lot on this month so give yourself a bit of slack for now and concentrate on your mam and then you will have more time for yourself. Sending hugs. X

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

thank you I’m also taking early retirement at the end of April so been sorting out 2 of my 3 leaving go’s and dodo going to centreparcs in June so I usually sort out restaurant bookings and activities so that all via me together as well so very stressful!

in reply toRG07

When you retire you will have more time to think about you and make plans for your future health Booking holidays or functions can be stressful but think about all the fun you will have when you get there. I have never been to center parc but if I am right there are lots of physical activities to do there . Take care RG X

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

there is that! I had planned on doing some bank work to supplement my pension fog walking/sitting and gardening. Instead I’ll be doing some bank work, parent sitting every other week (with my sister doing the other half but she’s hoping it won’t be full weeks) and some dog sitting for family and dog walking Alfie. No rest for the wicked 🤣

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs

Hi Carer53 and fellow maintainers,

I am taking an easy March as it was my son's birthday ( take away and cake) then we went away (several meals out) and my birthday this weekend so, haven't been on the scales at all. Feel a bit tubbier so, will start sorting things out in April is my loose goal.

Hope others are doing OK.

in reply toBee-bop

Hi Bb. Sometimes life is like that. I did really well over Christmas and then came Valentines day with a lovely meal out with Hubby and then I went right off the rails and couldn't get back on track. Glad to say I am back to my maintenance range and doing well. When not at home its not so easy but you have a plan for April so thats good. As long as we keep going thats ok. Sometimes life gets in the way but we know what to do so good luck for April X

elliebath profile image
elliebathMaintainer

I may be a bit late reporting in , but have been nearby in spirit.

Not much change with me this month, still stuck in the low 10s and not dropping any further. I've been recording everything on MFP and keeping to fairly healthy food. My only vice last week was 2 gin tonics and a small pack of crisps after a long day with my 90 year old m-i-l.

But im off to Fuerteventura end march, and luckily my summery size 12s still fit ok, even though I bought them half a stone ago 😏 . Will try my best not to gain weight while away.

in reply toelliebath

elliebath I cant think of anything better right now than a holiday in Fuerteventura. I woke up on Wednesday to snow. It did not last long but it is freezing. Sometimes I ignore scales and go by my clothes and how they feel. You must be doing well if you can get into your size 12's. Enjoy your holiday and then you can get back on track when you return and you still have 2 more weeks before you go Good luck X

elliebath profile image
elliebathMaintainer in reply to

Thank you 😊 we had snow here too in the south west, and very chilly still.

I have a few size 10s which are now too tight around the middle, which is where my shape has changed. I believe it is called "menopausal middle" , but in my case it arrived nearly 20 years later 😀 😄

in reply toelliebath

LOL I am mostly in a size 12 but do have a few size 10. I think it often depends on where you buy clothes. I started this journey when I started buying size 14 and they were getting tight. I have lost 2 stone and determined it will stay off. Like you I think age has a lot to do with it. Metabolism slows down but I do try to stay active. I walk as much as possible . The last 2 years I have been very poorly but am all ready to go again now so hoping for a good summer. Hope you have a good holiday. X

elliebath profile image
elliebathMaintainer in reply to

Thank you. That's not until the end of the month. But today we're just off to london overnight in Stoke Newington , where my son lives with his g/f and their dog 🦮

in reply toelliebath

Have a good time. X

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

that is true about sizes varies on where you shop. My mam used to like shopping at M&S since she could fit in the next size down compared to other shops!

in reply toelliebath

Oh that sounds wonderful! Fuertaventura in March - when I look out at a foot of snow here, I’m wishing we were off to the Canaries and not to Callander (Scotland!) And I’m so pleased you can still get in the size 12’s,   elliebath , what a relief! I have some lovely size 12 linen shift dresses from M&S and they are very forgiving. Good job they’re not close fitting though! Have a wonderful holiday! X

elliebath profile image
elliebathMaintainer in reply to

Well, well ...I have 2 of those dresses too .. . a navy spot and a navy floral and they are comfy.

But I also have their previous version ( a plain orange and a royal blue ) from 2 years earlier, but in size 10 and now too snug unfortunately. Love them though , so ever hopeful ☺️

elliebath profile image
elliebathMaintainer in reply to

And another coincidence, I went to Callander a couple of years ago for a friend's wedding . We stayed in The Roman Camp Hotel... delightful.

Also, my maternal family were from Port Mentieth , just up the road. We visited the church cemetery but sadly headstones now illegible.

in reply toelliebath

Well we are staying in a cottage overlooking Lake Menteith! Such a small world!

elliebath profile image
elliebathMaintainer in reply to

It's so pretty there, I hope you have a lovely stay.

in reply to

That sounds perfect. Have a fab time. X

in reply to

Hi Tt You have had more snow than me. I was hoping to be in my garden by now but its too cold. its very tempting to eat more when its cold. I am trying not to cave in X

hjskev profile image
hjskevHostMaintainer2 stone

Hi Everyone. Thanks for hosting Hidden

I think I've missed reporting in for a while. I've been away on holiday with no scales. That's my excuse. Anyway my news is that I'm still more or less the same weighing in at 133.5 pounds this morning . Its slightly less than last time I weighed in by about half a pound I think. I've been maintaining since May 2022 and so far so good. I've sent a few too big clothes to the charity shop this week, so that's it I've burnt my boats and there's no going back. 😀

elliebath profile image
elliebathMaintainer in reply tohjskev

Well done, you are maintaining well.

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply tohjskev

Hi Hjskev - well done in maintaining while away on holiday. Good job on the clothes clearout. Its that time of year to start thinking about getting the spring/summer clothes out seeing what fits and what can de donated (but not quite packing away the woollies yet - snow forecast)

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply tohjskev

that is impressive after being away when you have no control over the food

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer

Hi Carer53

I survived a lunch out at the weekend - completely overdid the calories - but I think I pulled it back and have still come in weight range this morning on the scales despite 2 basic errors:

1. The lunch was at a restaurant that puts the calories on its menu - so in theory I would have been ok when choosing my pizza but it was in such small writing I couldn't see the numbers (didn't have my reading glasses🤓). I should have checked out the menu online before hand

2. I went for the follow up drinks after - we went to the pub to watch the rugby on the big screen and I bought another bottle of wine to share with the table. Normally Id have either gone home or switched to soft drinks.

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply toIronqueen

well the odd splurge here and there is ok

I think its ok to go off plan so long as you pull it back sooner rather than let it slip for days. I am not sure how I feel about those menus with calories on. I sit there reading calories and think I had better not eat then. I would rather have what I want and then cut back the following day. I too have been to the pub to watch the rugby and our local brings free food round at half time.. No choice so this week it was cheese burgers. Its very hard to say no when everyone else has one. I did stick to low calorie drinks and skipped a meal when I went home. We try not to go to the pub and eat out as often as we used to. We eat out for special occasions and if invited by friends. You are doing really well maintaining X

moreless profile image
morelessAdministrator7 stone in reply to

Tagging Ironqueen

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply tomoreless

👍

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply to

Hi Carer53 - yes I chose something from the menu I really wanted regardless of it being high in calories and made up for it by not having an evening meal when I got home ( I wasnt hungry anyway).

Rugby game was a special occasion and had to celebrated - or more like sorrows drowned 😀

in reply toIronqueen

Thats what I do Ironqueen If out I think of it as a treat and most of the time I cant eat it all anyway. I then adjust what I eat later mind like you I'm not usually hungry. We have not been out for all the rugby matches just the ones we really wanted to watch. Sometimes we celebrate sometimes we drown are sorrows but that means alcohol one way or the other. I'm doing ok at the moment so not too worried. I am looking forward to those summer dresses X

Hi everyone. How are you all doing? I was doing really well until yesterday when friends asked us out for lunch. I was pleased when the menu said light bites which was the same as the main menu but when it came it was huge. Half my chips went straight onto my other halves plate. I still managed to over eat . All night I felt full and bloated and also annoyed with myself. Now I know why it was so much easier during covid because we could not socialize. I need to find the balance between maintaining and eating out. I am feeling better today and will be cutting down on my food intake. The weather looks more like spring so maybe some gardening. X

elliebath profile image
elliebathMaintainer in reply to

Social occasions really do present us with a challenge, dont they? But well done for giving half your chips away, many folk would just wolf down the lot. I had a bit of a piggy day too. My 80yo neighbour invited us to his little birthday party today. In two hours I managed 5 quarter sandwiches, 2 sausage rolls, a piece of cake, and 3 glasses of prosecco. But only had soup for supper though.

in reply toelliebath

It is mad isn't it how at home we can resist but presented with a buffet and we have to eat all that is in front of us. Reaching 80 is a wonderful reason for a party so hope your neighbor enjoyed and it would have been rude not to go. Its X all to do with our mind set. On a good day I am fine but give me 3 days of bad weather and I am am stuck at home boredom sets in and its my trigger to binge. If I can get out in the garden or walking food is the furthest thing from my mind. If I go to a restaurant with friends I plan what I am going to eat before I go and then they all start ordering this food and I cant resist even though I know I will be sorry later. If it was easy we would all be slim wouldn't we so we just have to keep trying. I am 2 stone lighter than when I started so I focus on that and how my clothes feel. X

elliebath profile image
elliebathMaintainer in reply to

That's exactly the thought to hold onto, Carer53, that you're 2 stone lighter than before. Well done for maintaining that.

I must try to tell myself the same thing, as I'm 'almost' 2st lighter than I was in 2014 , just in the range of 'healthy'.... and nine years older, so it's not too bad. 😊

in reply toelliebath

Thats amazing. Sometimes we turn a bleep into a major crisis and see it as a fail but actually we are all doing really well. X

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply to

I also have strategies for eating out at restaurants which I try and keep to. A buffet though is a challenge I have yet to face post COVID - I very much avoid 'all you can eat' buffet restaurants as it turns into how much can you get on a plate in one go!

in reply toIronqueen

I think we all have a problem when it comes to eating out. It is being surrounded by all the food we have been resisting and the temptation becomes too much. It is about getting straight back on track after which in my case can sometimes take a day or two. We must remind ourselves of how much we have achieved so far. X

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply to

👍

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

I’m usually quite good at sticking to my planned food choices if going out for a meal. Though sometimes it can be a challenge finding a good option because of the limited vegetarian options- fortunately I eat fish so that does help.

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply toelliebath

I’ve got that to look forward to next Friday- a cousin’s 60th but we’ll eat before we go since I’m a vegetarian (so is my sister) so buffet may be limited in suitable food so I just have to remember not to go up to the table!

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

I would have been like you expecting smaller size/calories with meal’s identified as light bites. I wonder what a main meal is like😁. I must admit when I’ve been away and gone to a pub/restaurant it’s hard to find a main meal less than 1000 calories

Hi every one I hope you have had a good weekend. I have had a fall which has caused me lots of problems. I tripped over the doorstep and head-butted the car before landing on the concrete drive. It shook me up and I have bruises every where and a cut leg. It could have been a lot worse but I am in a lot of pain. There is a good side and thats that I cant get up to get to the fridge so no snacking between meals. Exercising has to stop for a while but hopefully wont be too long. I am seeing the doctor tomorrow and will probably will have injection into my knee if swelling has not gone down. We are nearly at the end of March and I am about the same as I started the Month. I tend to fluctuate between the same 3 lbs so I am happy with that. How have you all done.?

BridgeGirl profile image
BridgeGirlAdministrator2 stone in reply to

Good grief, that's a nasty accident :( Look after yourself and take things easy

in reply toBridgeGirl

Thank you BridgeGirl I have managed to put my foot to the floor today so hopefully I will start to get better soon. X

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply to

Oh dear what a fall! Im surprised you werent knocked out, your head must be tougher than the car. ! Heres to a speedy recovery

in reply toIronqueen

I've probably not got a brain LOL. Well after struggling all weekend I saw the doctor this morning and sent for x ray then a scan and I have chipped a bone in my knee and I am in a splint for six weeks. I will go nuts I like to be active. The weather is lovely and good for gardening. I hope I don't eat with the boredom X

Brumosa profile image
BrumosaMaintainer in reply to

Really sorry to hear that you will need to rest. I hope you can find some exercise or activities even with the splint on. Best wishes for a quick recovery.

in reply toBrumosa

Thank you Brumosa. I hope I wont be laid up too long. Its the Easter holidays soon and I do not want to be house bound. I cant bend my leg so find getting in and out of the car hard. X

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply to

Oh no thats a nasty one - and glad you got it checked out. Six weeks of resting up - tho I see you are still allowed to drive so at least you can get out and about. Grass will need mowing soon so heres to your quick recovery.

in reply toIronqueen

I am missing my garden already. Looking out the window thinking about all I could be doing. It will be there when I am feeling better so I will try to be patient. X

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

hopefully it won’t grow too quickly especially the weeds

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply to

Oh dear Carer53,

how are you feeling now? It can be quite the shock to the system when we fall. Hope you are managing to take it easy.

in reply toBee-bop

At first I thought it was just shock as I didn't feel too bad but as the days passed the pain got worse so thought it best to get checked out . I hope now that I wont eat more out of boredom. X

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply to

Oh no, that is going to keep you out of action for a while ! Fingers crossed regarding not eating badly. It is hard when you don't have your usually distractions like the garden and walking but, can you do other things like knitting or reading perhaps?

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

well the splint will hopefully make you have to work hard to get from the chair to the kitchen that you end up thinking it’s not worth it🤞

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

oh I hope you are starting to feel a bit better and that the Dr has helped- you’re lucky you didn’t break anything. It’s good that you can focus on the silver lining re: reduced snacking

Brumosa profile image
BrumosaMaintainer

Hi Hidden and everyone, it seems to be a time when we have worries about our parents. I haven't had a moment till now to check in, as sadly my father died at the end of February, so I have spent nearly a month away from home supporting my mother. It's been a joy and privilege to return some of the care she has given me. But she wanted to eat out a lot to save me the cooking and to attend social events to keep herself busy. Not surprisingly I am way off my range now, so I will give myself a few days then weigh in again. Back home to my normal routine, I should be able to slowly get back within my upper limit of 62.5kg.

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply toBrumosa

Oh Brumosa,

It is sad to have a parent die and then to be there for the remaining parent. The grief is shared to a degree though and it is a way to remember the good times together as a family. When my own father died it was a huge shock as it happened suddenly and I was staying there at the time so at least I could be there for my mum.

I hope that you can get back on track slowly but, given the circumstances, wouldn't be too hard on yourself around the weight maintaining,

in reply toBrumosa

I am so sorry for your loss. It is never easy when you lose a parent. It was good that you were there to support your Mum. There is plenty of time to get back on track with your eating plan so give yourself time and be kind to yourself too X

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply toBrumosa

Hi Brumosa

Very sorry for the loss of your father . That was good that you could spend time to support your mother.

Id give yourself a break and not worry about weight right now.

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply toBrumosa

I bet your mam appreciated you coming up to support her- I know my mam appreciates what my sister and I are doing for them and feels lucky that they have us. Probably thinking they brought us up well😁.

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs

Hi everyone,

I haven't been around as I have been pretty unwell since just after my birthday. Long story short-I had a "funny turn" and still am not 100%. My blood tests (taken a few days before) came back as vitamin D deficiency, calcium, iron and folic acid. Also just in pre diabetes again and slightly high cholesterol how disappointing! I have been dizzy now for 2 weeks and feel generally unwell. It coincided with me taking the first ampule of vitamin D and so I still wonder if it is related even though I am being told it isn't. So, I am trying to reduce carbs/ sugar although to be fair, I am not going crazy with them anyway. I have cfs/me anyway so am tired all the time as a current theme and so wasn't away I was low in anything or high in cholesterol! The nurse said this could be due to coconut oil products. I weighed 62kg and am still in size 10 so, I am a bit flummoxed with it all.

Anyway, hope others are doing ok as we approach the end of March.

in reply toBee-bop

Oh Bb you have had a bad time haven't you. I hope you can sort out your health problems soon. It is hard when we do not feel well. Hope you feel better soon so look after yourself and take care X

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply to

Thanks Carer53,

I was just very frustrated by it all as I bet you were with your fall! All you can do is rest until things improve. Hopefully I will feel a bit better when I have had thr ampules for 6 weeks 🙂

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply toBee-bop

Sorry to hear you are poorly Bee-bop.

Not sure whether it was a significant birthday ? I hate to say it might be age related

I started taking Vitamin D supplements as a precaution to protect my bones post menopause with decreasing estrogen .

Also as you get older you dont absorb as much vitamin D and not always sunshine here! .

hopefully taking the ampules will settle everything down

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply toIronqueen

Hi Ironqueen,

Not really significant. Regarding the vitamin D, I had explained to the physio how I was getting small burst of cramp in various areas of my body for short amounts of time who said if they carried on I should contact my GP which I did. The Dr then requested extra blood tests which came back with the very low vitamin D so, have no choice but to take them. Prior to this, I was taking a calcium, magnesium and D supplement so am surprised it was so low as was my calcium. Thing is, you can't take calcium supplements with the ampules! I feel that I am having to juggle my intakes of things and food is becoming hard work to get right so, I am trying not to think about the other bits and pieces going on.

Fingers crossed once the vitamin D and iron kick in, I will not feel so floored by things 🤞

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply toBee-bop

I hope you start feeling better soon. It sounds like there is quite a few of us maintainers who are having a rough time so far this year- whether own health or parents. Hopefully things will improve for everyone 🤞

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply toRG07

Thanks RG07, I know! So many of us having a rough time. I cannot believe how quickly things changed personally and am just having to be gentle although extremely frustrated with that 🙄

in reply toRG07

Thats so true RG This month seems to be more about personal problems rather than maintaining but they are all connected as how we feel affects what we eat. Thats why maintaining is so hard to do as life always gets in the way. I am laid up after this fall and its taken all my strength not to binge. I can not get on with my daily routine and I am so bored. I watched 3 films on TV yesterday. X

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

tv streaming has its upside🤣 I’m taking both parents to the local shopping centre since they want to go to the bank- it was one but both going- both unsteady on feet so I’m not looking forward to trying to keep an eye on both. I suggested I push dad in the wheelchair since he gets breathless on exertion but no he thinks it’s easier if they are both walking rather than me pushing him and keeping an eye on mam. I’ve fortified myself with toasted teacake and I think I’ll need a G&T to recover🤪

in reply toRG07

Oh my thats a responsibility. I am an example of how easy it is to fall. Hope all goes well. X

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

fortunately they were both fine though I had to keep telling dad to slow down especially when he was behind mam- I had visions of him catching her heels with the rollator (walker on wheels) and tripping her up and her breaking her other arm or leg🤪

in reply toRG07

Oh bless RG that sounds very stressful but you did get them home safely .X

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

I suppose it’s painful moving so that will help to stop you ftom raiding the cupboards and fridge🤞

in reply toRG07

I am trying not to think of food and I did quite well yesterday until the evening when I gave in to a small piece of cake and then got annoyed with myself. X

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

I hope you are having a better day today with pain and eating:)

in reply toRG07

I could be doing better . Its the boredom thats doing it. The sooner I get mobile the better. X

Ironqueen profile image
IronqueenMaintainer in reply toBee-bop

Hi Bee-Bop that's very odd given you were already taking a supplement. I certainly find it easier to take a daily supplement tablet than trying to work out whether I am getting enough of everything I need through food. Some days Im sure I do, but some days I might not. Heres hoping things balance out for you.

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply toIronqueen

Thanks Ironqueen, me too 🤞

moreless profile image
morelessAdministrator7 stone in reply toBee-bop

My advice, Bee-bop is to join the Thyroid UK forum and do a lot of reading. Everything you describe here could be symptoms of an underactive thyroid, including the cfs/me diagnosis healthunlocked.com/thyroiduk

Bee-bop profile image
Bee-bopMaintainer2st 7lbs in reply tomoreless

Hi moreless,

Thank you. I was given the cfs/me diagnosis as a direct result of trauma from a serious road traffic incident in 2012. To obtain the diagnosis you have to have symptoms for 6 months, be tested for everything else ( all bloods were fine in 2013) and I believe thyroid was tested too. I must admit I am disappointed that loads of stuff have just flagged up and will ask about my thyroid but, at present the GP is looking at heart functioning. I am still really thinking it is linked to my ear though as had labrynthitis years ago and get reoccurring symptoms which I know trigger something.

moreless profile image
morelessAdministrator7 stone in reply toBee-bop

Hypothyroidism is often triggered by a traumatic event and GP's are poorly trained in its management. They rarely order the correct blood tests and often wrongly diagnose cfs/me for it. If necessary, you could get private blood tests and get the very knowledgeable members on the forum to interpret them for you.

Poor absorption of vitamins and minerals, tiredness, raised blood sugar and cholesterol levels are common symptoms.

The dizziness may, or may not be thyroid related.

Don't take my word for it though, skip over to the forum and do some reading :)

in reply toBee-bop

Bb I have an underactive thyroid and my symptoms were out of breath when walking and could not walk very far without holding on. I felt very ill and dizzy all the time. I went to doctors and they sent me to hospital for tests . I now take daily tablets and live a normal life. Very similar symptoms to anemia . I am no expert so best you get this checked out. X

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer

well a mixed month my weight has fluctuated with maximum weight gain if 1kg over the month but this morning I’m only 0.5kg more than my start weight. Since I’m at my parents I’m quite please with that but since I’m doing the meal planning and cooking but they do like their biscuits and toasted tea cakes mid morning 🫣

in reply toRG07

RG you have had a lot to deal with this month so be kind to yourself and lets hope next month will be better for you and me. I am not weighing until I feel better X

RG07 profile image
RG07Maintainer in reply to

😂 as long as you can got into your clothes then that’s ok-

Well we have come to the end of March and there will be a new host tomorrow. Thank you all for chatting and lets hope those of us with personal and health problems will have a better April. I look forward to catching up soon. X

TheTabbyCat profile image
TheTabbyCatAdministrator16kg

Thanks for looking after everyone Carer53, Trimmerteacher is ready to host April Maintainers Club.

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