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Maintenance Sucks

Wednesday, July 06, 2011

My experiment with maintenance (just staying within 3 pounds of my current weight) is not working well. I have been eating at my upper level of calories (and over a couple of time) and I have really reduced my exercise. I guess in my mind when I am not trying to lose weight I can take it easy. Not true. In just a couple of weeks of this "easy" living, NOT binging, I have gained 4 pounds. Its just fascinating how quickly the weight can come back on..... I need to go back to watching my calories carefully and exercising actively and try to figure out what is going on in my head.

I think it is that I don't really want to maintain at my current weight. I still feel like I'm too heavy and am carrying too much fat. I don't really know if its the numbers (weight, BMI) or if I still don't like myself in the mirror. I "feel" healthy -- I don't get out of breath easily, I can move and bend without difficulty, I am wearing a good size (not Women's) . I don't know. I do know that I have to figure this out or I will regress...quickly.

So, for now, back to trying to get to 170. I've been told by many Spark friends that Maintenance isn't easy, maybe even harder than losing. I believe it. But I definitely am not going to quit my journey. I like it here even if it is a struggle.

Any words of wisdom?

Member Comments About This Blog Post:

AELARLEE1 7/10/2011 8:51PM

It seems the older we get the less food our bodies need. I have found that if I save my calories for one "decent" (not splurge) meal a day and only eat (under 300 calories each) two other meals having only a fruit or veggie for a snack, I can stay under 1200. If you can add about 300 to 500 calories a day in an exercise burn (do it in segments if you can't do it all at once) the scale WILL begin to move. It has for me of late and I thought it would never drop!

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LOULOUBELLE2 7/8/2011 9:39AM

Maintenance Sucks, geez I wish that I could get to that point...lately, I've let down and gained back several pounds...now to loose them again.....I hate yo yoing but that seems to be what I'm doing lately.......
I need to get serious again....but with my back pain it's tough to get in the exercise that's needed and that's what it takes....so you get back to that bike riding and hiking the mountains and you'll be back to that 170 mark soon.

Comment edited on: 7/8/2011 9:40:47 AM

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CALGALFOX 7/7/2011 9:52PM

I have that same issue. I find that it's just easier at my age to diet. I can't trust myself not to be on a diet.

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GATOR12 7/6/2011 7:02PM

It is Very difficult to find your balance and to emotionally stop dieting but continue life-style changes. Exercise for me is the main component. Somedays I think, can I do this 5-6 times a week for the rest of my life. But I love how strong I feel. I just have to balance the eating and exercise. When I reached my goal, I gained and found a very scattered way trying to maintain that balance! I still struggle with it. Good luck. Go back to what you were doing and try to NOT GAIN!! might be your best solution.

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DDOORN 7/6/2011 4:02PM

Maintenance is for sure the greatest challenge!

Struggling here as well!

Don

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TRIGFROST 7/6/2011 1:58PM

...I am still trying the lost weight thing myself...but I can't imagine keeping everything perfect...OH-No...

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JOYINKY 7/6/2011 11:35AM

Nancy, I do eat well; but I keep increasing my fitness goals not easing up. In my 6th year of maintenance now I still, and expect always will, track my food and count calories. I don't do that here; I'd already developed a system that works for me. Fitness minutes I do track here. Focusing there keeps my mind off food. I keep my food choices pretty simple and am somewhat of a "grazer". I eat frequently, make healthy choices and don't eat big meals. Works for me; but yes, maintenance is a challenge. No-to mindless eating and yes-to mindful moving! Hang in there! The results are worth it. Good to hear from you!

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SHECHAM 7/6/2011 10:46AM

Hi there. I remember this feeling not so long ago. I do find being active in a maintenance support group has really helped me be patient with myself while I learn the ropes of maintenance. For me it has meant tracking food diligently. I enjoy tracking my exercise too. I like the daily differential tool when I track both. Maintenance did not mean I could eat a lot more... I also had to take time to determine where to set my final weight goal... not sure I am there, but so far am able to maintain it, so that is good. Be patient with yourself... you will make it... and congrats on your loss and your efforts.... hugs

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CARLANNIE 7/6/2011 10:24AM

Rural3's comments probably ring true, unfortunately!

Aside from exercising regularly and watching that you don't overeat, I think there is an emotional component to all of this where we just need to find the right Balance in our lives, that place where we are happy and content with who we are right now. It's a peace that doesn't beat us up for not being strictly on plan, and its a red light that flags ourselves to stop and reevaluate things and bring them back in line. Guess it's the yin and yang. It is scary, though, at how quickly the pounds will pack back on versus how slowly it is to take them off. I don't get that part!!!

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BHOLMAN1005 7/6/2011 9:56AM

Maintenance was my downfall years ago I went to the Diet Center. It seems like maintenance is a real challenge. Good Luck.

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RURAL3 7/6/2011 9:17AM

oops comment below. How did it get there?

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Surprise Gift (?) from my Doctor

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

I went in for my annual checkup yesterday. It was so nice to not have any problems or complaints. We reviewed my progress and my stall in weight loss. I was discouraged...she was pleased that I had lost 6 pounds in the last 6 months since she had seen me. She said that I looked great! and that my current BMI of 28 (compared to the 43 I started with) was fantastic. She said that I had a very large frame and that my current weight was fine! What??? Yes, she said that I should stop worrying about losing more weight and just concentrate on maintaining my current level of fitness and health. Wow! That is something for me to try and get my head around. I don't want to cop out. I would like to get into the normal rather than overweight range, but she may have a point. It is more improtant to not go backwards than to continue focus on losing. Maybe I need to relax and just get comfortable here. Maybe, I need a breather before I lose more. Maybe I just need to stay here and be satisfied....

She drew blood and I should get those results soon.

Member Comments About This Blog Post:

RURAL3 7/6/2011 9:16AM

I struggle with maintenance also as you know Nancy. For me I think it is those things I let back into my diet that I know I shouldn't but think I can control for just once. Well I can't. There are certain things that I just can't have. They trigger me and I can't control it. They are in my house as I speak so thank you for waking me up "again". Maintenance is not easy. Never has been and unfortunately never will be. But Health is the key issue. If we can just eat healthy the maintenance will come.
I hate it but there it is. The exercise can be lessened but only if the calories are reduced. More calories, more exercise. Life is hard isn't it?

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LOULOUBELLE2 6/22/2011 10:18PM

Fantastic

for that wonderful report from your Dr....Just remember that your main goal is to be healthy and it seems that's where you are. Don't stress out anymore about loosing weight, just enjoy your accomplishments and continue on the "Healthy" trail.

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JUDY1676 6/21/2011 10:37PM

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DOLLIE6 6/21/2011 6:37PM

I am so proud for you. I am also a good size women when I am down to a decent size now I am just fat. I am 5'8" tall.
Your blog encouraged me to have fun finding the size I am healthy and happy at. Your blog and your page are very encouraging. Thank you for sharing.

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RURAL3 6/21/2011 5:59PM

Can you hear me clapping? CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP This may be just the thing you need. Stressing ourselves out over consistently losing is not healthy. Take a break from the worry BUT continue in the healthy patterns you have learned. If you decide later, you can pick it up again down the road.

that's definitely not Bucky.

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FREECAL1 6/21/2011 3:01PM

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JOYINKY 6/21/2011 1:07PM

That is great Nancy! I agree with your Dr. If you've read "My Journey" blogs you know that it was when I started focusing on health and fitness and quit the scale that my weight started coming down. Slowly, oh so slowly, but enought to motivate me to continue making healthy choices. Don't worry about the scale, you look great and are feeling good. Making healthy choices will bring your weight to where it's supposed to be!
I had someone today think I was not yet 60; I was in terrible shape at 60! They were pretty surprised when they found out I will be 70 this year! Health is wealth!

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AELARLEE1 6/21/2011 11:36AM

I agree with your doctor!! You have done so well and worked so hard and have established some excellent new habits of eating and exercise. So maintain for a bit and quit worrying about the scale.

Story example: Hubby and I had a transition year where we lived with his brother before buying our own home (we were empty nesters by then--before adopting our 16 year old--nother story). Anyway, we only ate what they ate and my sister-in-law did NOT cook volume and we ate way less for a year. I paid no attention to my weight and only walked a little. In the Spring I began running again to keep from going stir-crazy in a basement bedroom. By the time we bought the house we are in I had dropped 15 lbs. without even trying, just eating less for a year.

So yea, doc is right. If you keep exercising and watching what you eat but don't try to get the scale to move, your body will love you and you will continue to get in better shape :)

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KELLYIM 6/21/2011 11:08AM

That is great news! I'm actually pretty impressed with your doctor for not insisting you get to a normal BMI. Most doctors are really hung up on that BMI number.

The thing is, BMI was never meant to be used for gauging individual health. It really is a flawed measurement and can't take into account things like frame size, lean mass or any other variables. Muscles is heavier than fat, which is why many athletes measure in the overweight or obese range for BMI.

Of course, you should do what you feel comfortable with, but if you feel good where you are (and it sounds like your doctor thinks you're at a good weight), I would say don't stress about being "Normal."

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DDOORN 6/21/2011 10:46AM

While your doc's feedback is important YOU are the final word on what works for you!

Keep the SPARK! :-)

Don

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LALASLAND 6/21/2011 9:57AM

I have a large frame, as well, and I have been thinking that my doctor might say the same thing when I get my next checkup. Those general numbers aren't for everyone, just a guide. If I got to where my Wii Fit wants me, I think I'd look ill!

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WHISPERINGPINE2 6/21/2011 9:56AM

on losing those 6 pounds. What great news from your Dr. you go girlfriend.

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CARLANNIE 6/21/2011 9:30AM

Sounds like your doctor is one smart cookie! Work on maintaining and staying fit and you'll be one happy camper. (It's hard to change the mindset, though, when you've been at this for such a long while, but you can do it!)

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WELLNESSME09 6/21/2011 9:24AM

News, fitness and Health is so important...you must be doing something right!

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WEEZIE30 6/21/2011 9:20AM

Yea! That's awesome!! Congratulations.

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TENACIOUSTIGER 6/21/2011 9:17AM

hey awesome news well dont to you how amazing do you feel

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Getting Stronger Every Day

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

I reset all my streaks for the summer. I made several MD appointments for June. I reviewed my favorite recipes. I increased the weights I lift by 10%. I made some summer fitness appointments with friends. I feel refreshed and renewed!

AND I put up a summer background for my page!

Member Comments About This Blog Post:

AELARLEE1 6/16/2011 3:38PM

Yea for summer!! Good job. As the sun becomes more frequent and warmer I can feel myself becoming renewed as well.

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LIZABETT 6/14/2011 10:52PM

Sounds like starting fresh with new excitement and motivation---not a bad idea! WTG!
Happy, sunshiny page...I like it.

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FREECAL1 6/14/2011 4:50PM

Sounds

. Like your new background too!

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JOYINKY 6/14/2011 4:26PM

Great! That's REALLY Sparking!! Smiles, Joy

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KAZ814 6/14/2011 1:25PM

WOO HOO!!!!

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DDOORN 6/14/2011 12:53PM

Keep tweakin' & SPARKIN'! Woo hoo! :-)

Don

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OURELEE1 6/14/2011 11:45AM

Good for you.

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LALASLAND 6/14/2011 9:26AM

Wow, you are doing

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CARLANNIE 6/14/2011 9:07AM

You are on a roll!

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SCORPIONLZ 6/14/2011 8:58AM

Good Luck!!!

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Spark Streaks Helped Me

Monday, June 13, 2011

I've always known that evening snacking has been a problem, but I didn't realize how big a problem. I thought that in the last 2 years I had really "managed" that part of my weight problem. However, I decided to make a Streak of "Don't snack mindlessly in the evening" and have been tracking it for a few weeks. Today I decided to look at the report of my streak.

Dang! Not once did I hit my goal for 7 days straight. The best I did was 2 weeks of 6 day streaks. It seems I snack mindlessly at least once a week. I even had one week where I only made my goal 2 times . Ouch! No wonder my weight loss has stalled.

You know, I think plateaus can be a blessing in disguise. I am learning so much about my eating and my lifestyle while trying to figure out why I have been stuck in this 5 pound weight range.

I am really glad Spark has this tool to help me more carefully look at what's going on .

Member Comments About This Blog Post:

MNNICE 6/14/2011 1:27PM

I do the same but word it differently - "Limit night time eating to a planned snack" - just to put a more positive slant on it so I don't feel so deprived! LOL. To give me more incentive, I have a reward for every 5 days in a row that I don't overeat at night. That's a good deterent when it's day 4 and I dont' want to break the streak, otherwise I have to start my 5 days all over in order to get the reward.

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MTNGRL 6/13/2011 8:23PM

I get the urge at nite to snack too. I've been saving some fruit for that but it doesn't always work. Making it a Streak is a good idea!

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LALASLAND 6/13/2011 1:20PM

Hey, SparkStreaks work for me, too! Thanks for reminding me, because I am going to get some a try to get me going!

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AELARLEE1 6/13/2011 12:06PM

Streaks are a great idea! (I almost typed "steaks" -- you can sure see where my mind goes easily :)

My issue is when I get home from work. I want to snack immediately. I should make a streak not to eat before or after dinner. I have found that not snacking at work (at least on anything other than my apple and orange) has also helped me.

Thanks for the idea!

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DDOORN 6/13/2011 12:02PM

Those evening hours can be trecherous times for me as well! Great strategy for yourself!

Don

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JOYINKY 6/13/2011 9:57AM

Now, I'm one that enjoys my evening snacks! The key word there is "mindlessly". My snacks are part of my day. Even if not, it's never "mindlessly". That kind of eating does count and will work against you. It's taken years but no more mindless eating here. If I have a gain, I DO know why! Helps me to decide some foods are just not worth it. You are doing great as you discover more and more about yourself. That's what "tweaking" is all about! Smiles, Joy

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CARLANNIE 6/13/2011 9:19AM

Sounds like you had a great "Ah, ha!" moment. Those can be quite eye opening, and beneficial.

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RURAL3 6/13/2011 8:18AM

ouch you just hit home for me too. Thanks for the reminder

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Life is Good

Friday, June 10, 2011

I just want to touch base and let you know that even though I am "struggling" and "tweaking" and making changes, I am doing great. I am healthy, happy and strong. I still have an obsession with food but am learning daily how to manage it. I am developing a healthful lifestyle and am extremely grateful to SparkPeople and all of you for the support, information , tools and encouragement I find here daily. I will maintain my weight loss, but I know it will always be hard mindful work. That's ok! I am growing in strength and determination every day!

Member Comments About This Blog Post:

COLEENCOLE 6/12/2011 9:27PM

Sounds great!!!!

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JRSWHIMSY 6/10/2011 7:12PM

I hope you'll come to our meet-up in a couple weeks!

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AELARLEE1 6/10/2011 5:43PM

Thanks so much for the update! We do like to know :)

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GATOR12 6/10/2011 11:11AM

You are so right!! It is a journey. Somedays we don't do it perfectly but we keep plugging along,learning from our mistakes. Journey on---and no looking back!

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DDOORN 6/10/2011 9:37AM

Spark ON! :-)

Don

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JOYINKY 6/10/2011 8:33AM

You are doing great!!

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CARLANNIE 6/10/2011 8:29AM

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NUTRON3 6/10/2011 7:57AM

Great attitude!

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