Hey. Finally, spring is right around the corner! Daffodils are in bloom right now and the weather is getting sunnier. I love spring and all that it embodies: New life! My favorite time of year! I am not religious, but Easter is my favorite holiday. Bunnies, colored eggs, easter baskets, spring flowers! I always feel better in Spring! YEY!
Today is day 2 of Atkins Induction for me. So far, so good. I have been peeing a lot! LOL.
I decided to get back to the low carb lifestyle (Atkins) since I had some success with it several years ago. I lost about 40 lbs. and felt great, but after a while I gave up and rapidly gained it all back, plus some more.
I am definitely going to learn from my mistakes. I have carefully re-read the Atkins book and realized I made quit a few.
1st mistake was that I stayed on Induction the entire time, about 6 months, which means I lost quickly, but of course I couldn't stick with it. I never learned how many carbs I can tolerate. I just went back to eating everything I had been denying myself with a vengeance. Cookies, McDonald's, bread, cereal, pasta, mashed potatoes...
2nd mistake was that I ate a lot of processed junk like Atkins bars and shakes, and lots of maltitol-sweetened candy, artificial sweeteners and diet sodas. That stuff is junk.
3rd mistake was that I didn't eat as many salads and vegetables as I should have. the recommended amount is 4 cups a day. I ate maybe one serving a day. Bad.
4th mistake was that I didn't limit my portions, I was eating large quantities of cheese, nuts, bacon and other processed meats. Lots of calories! Cheese is limited to 4 oz a day.
5th mistake, a HUGE one, was that I stopped exercising as soon as I stopped eating low carb. I also changed to a sedentary job around the same time.
SO... I am armed this time with more knowledge and wisdom. I have developed better habits in general and health is now my priority, not just weight loss.
I am also beginning the 5% cats spring challenge next week, which also has me excited. And an added motivator, I have hired a personal trainer at my gym for 8 sessions.
I can do it! I really feel it!
Edited by: KIRSTEN at: 3/13/2012 (16:04)