Eating Up an Unhealthy Pantry

Posts: 209
9/16/12 9:20 A

Thank god not everything is unhealthy. I have frozen veggies in the freezer and working my way through them. It's a good feeling to get rid of all this food in a good way.

May SparkPoints: 0

0 50 100 150

200

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
9/1/12 6:45 P

This summer I've made progress, and I'm happy with the results.

Most particularly, I've used up all my cans of high-sodium tomato product and have replaced with no salt, low salt, or organic cans. I was actually surprised that the store brand organic version in my location was the same price as the regular "full salt" option.

Now I keep at least 1 bag of dried beans in the pantry, rotating between black, garbanzo (chick-peas), black eye peas, and lentils. Sure wish we had more of a selection of lentils here! My husband, working overseas, says he gets some that immediately turn to mush (good for soup bases) and some that maintain their textural integrity (good for a side dish).

There's still a bag of high fat/high sodium chips, and that'll probably remain until company comes to eat them up!

I've donated quite a bit, indeed. But only the better stuff!

Cake mixes, I found a recipe for making half a cake, and have done so. Cut it up, frozen the pieces in foil, and take them out when I crave them. And I frost them with flavored Greek yogurt. The cake loses nothing in the freezing process, what a joy. What's not to like??

Did anyone else have success? Anyone else still wondering how to eat down their pantry? Anyone else floundering around, wishing for the Health Fairy to fix everything?

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/7/12 8:10 A

VALLITTLEMAMA5:

Thanks for the suggestion of sharing with a family of teenage boys.

My OWN family of 3 teenage boys got me stuck in the mess to begin with, so I just had to chuckle at your suggestion bringing me full circle here. I never downsized my pantry as my family size changed--those "boys" are all in their uppper/mid 30's now with pantries of their own! So my own personal mini-mart is getting not only a healthy makeover, but a tummy tuck, as well!

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

Posts: 284
7/7/12 7:57 A

Hi! I've skimmed some of these ideas. . . Food pantry seems to be a common theme. But it sounds like you want to use the things up yourself. A middle ground solution is to have people over, or go to a potluck-style gathering, and cook for a large number of friends. A close second to this is finding a friend who's done a lot for you and has every intention of buying what you have now, and sharing what you have. If you know any folks with a lot of children, this is an excellent idea. . .have that large family over. Kids need more calories than adults. And large families get fewer invitations than small families. If you really want help, pick a large family with teenaged boys. That Mom will thank you, you'll have loads of fun, and you'll hit the pantry pretty hard.

Edited by: VALLITTLEMAMA5 at: 7/7/2012 (08:00)

Pounds lost: 0.0

0 5 10 15

20

Posts: 78
7/7/12 12:41 A

about saving the 'bad stuff' (soups with sodium etc) for the kiddo.....isn't that training them to eat badly? the more you give them the more they will want this stuff. If you and husband are eating right, whole family should......just my humble opinion

Pounds lost: 19.0

0 36 72 108

144

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/6/12 10:19 P

SOCDIRECTOR:

Hi, Lynn: Your goals certainly are ambitious, and I like your idea of setting rewards for yourself, too. I don't think anyone's introduced me to that part of a personal challenge before. With a young son, I can see why you're motivated to stay fit and healthy just to keep up with him!

A zero-calorie salad dressing??? Whatever are the ingredients? You've got me curious enough to check it out for myself.

I agree, it feels good inside my head to compromise on eating up the "bad" stuff in my pantry by mixing in healthy foods NOW rather than waiting until the unhealthier counterparts are gone. Someone upthread suggested mixing brown rice in with white rice as a compromise; I liked that idea, too.

So. MY goal is to gradually change over my pantry, incorporating many of the suggestions along this thread (so many good ones!). To keep things interesting, I'm challenged to use up one can of something high sodium, sugar or fat, or low fiber or protein each week and create a healthy meal with it by surrounding it with fantastic fresh foods. This week I finished off a large can of regular diced tomatoes--rinsing and draining, which is said to reduce the sodium by 40%--in a surimi and kale dish over spaghetti (another box half gone now).

Thanks for the heads-up on Walden Farms dressing!

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

Posts: 166
7/6/12 10:09 P

The dilution trick is so smart!

current weight: 139.6

166 152 138 124

110

SparkPoints: (42,047)
Fitness Minutes: (34,072)
Posts: 767
7/6/12 10:00 P

Interesting topic...

We've also been in this predicament. The soups I reserve for my 7 y/o son. MDH and I are the ones cutting back on all those bad things: fat, sodium, sugars, etc.

Here's a suggestion for "thinning" out the regular salad dressings. What I'm doing in our home is mixing Walden Farms brand with the regular dressing. This way I don't feel like I'm wasting the products in my basement pantry and at the same time cutting the calories in half. (Walden Farms has 0 calories!)

If you decide to try Walden Farms, the best prices I've found via the Internet are through VitaCost.com

Good Luck!
~ Lynn

Pounds lost: 12.4

0 19.25 38.5 57.75

77

Posts: 101
7/6/12 6:17 P

Our church has a food collection the first Sunday of the month. I normally donate out of my pantry since nonperishables are really needed.....also the notion that I'm donating out of my "plenty" is a good feeling.

current weight: 204.0

242 211 180 149

118

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/6/12 5:19 P

SMOOSDREAM:

Setting aside shelf space for frequent visitors (or in my case, a husband!) is a very thoughtful idea. I like the idea of segregating those foodstuffs from my "normal" pantry fare. It's kind of a mental crutch to think of that stuff as "NOT MINE: DON'T EAT IT" and I won't be tempted to snag a bag of Lay's chips meant for my husband's manly consumption.

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

SparkPoints: (47,761)
Fitness Minutes: (28,196)
Posts: 2,440
7/6/12 5:11 P

When I went through my pantry initially, I gave all of the 'must go' items to my little brother (21 - will eat anything and it doesn't show). He was grateful for all the food and I was ecstatic to get it out of my home so it was win-win for us.

I need to go through it again though. We often have friends or family stay with us for a little while and they always bring food to 'help out'. It's nice while they're here, but when they leave most of a box/jar/bottle of whatever I feel obliged to use it up to get it out - and then they just bring more! There got to be a point that I gave my parents a shelf in my pantry (the lowest so I can't see it easily) to stock with their things, as they are our most frequent house guests. I guess I just need to shift all the things I don't want to the lower shelf again!

Great topic. There are so many good ideas in here! :D Thanks for all the tips everyone.

May Minutes: 250

0 175 350 525

700

Posts: 505
7/6/12 12:58 P

We have a lot of foodbanks here, but for perishables and drinks, I would give them to like....you know when people have events like fetes or markets? Something like that?

104 Days until:  Goal One

150 112 75 37

0

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/6/12 12:42 P

FAERYPRINCESS:

Thanks for your personal input. Yes, of course. While I disagree with how Nestle and other large bottled water companies have undermined the nation's faith in what is, in FACT, the best national water supply in the world, I'll have to agree with you about stocking bottled water to share with the folks who help me out.

The section in my pantry (and refrigerator) that's been devoted to soda cans will happily house bottled water for my lawn service people, and trash pickup workers! Great suggestion... it'll be like "spreading the Spark," won't it.

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

SparkPoints: (10,744)
Fitness Minutes: (3,476)
Posts: 270
7/6/12 12:33 P

Giving the sodas to the guys who work outside is really nice. My dad was a gardener by trade and usually had a water container in the truck, but really appreciated the few people who gave him ice cold drinks. You would be surprised how many people don't and how many people wouldn't even let him have a glass of water. If you feel like you want to continue the trend, buy bottled water instead. Then you are giving out something healthy.

current weight: 162.2

174 157 140 123

106

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/6/12 11:06 A

Hi, ROBINRS:

Allowing your grandkids or children set up a soda stand is a very kind and thoughtful way to rid your pantry of soda.

Since my granddaughters live several states to my north, I'm being kind and thoughtful by offering cold sodas to the men who come to mow my lawn, and the trash pick-up man (believe it or not, my community assigns only 1 man to a truck to make the rounds). In central Florida's heat, and with the pace those workers maintain, they always appreciate a cool and refreshing beverage.

Hah! I'm no doubt working myself into a corner here and will end up buying more soda: like wild animals that come to expect goodies if you feed them, those men will surely be disappointed if I stop!

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

Posts: 1,459
7/6/12 11:00 A

Do you have children or grandchildren? A relative of mine decided to give up soda and gave it to her kids to sell like a lemonade stand. She was lucky to have a house in a busy area. They sold it for cheap - 25 cents a can- but the kids got some vacation money and she got rid of her soda.

If you can't bring yourself to part with snack foods like chips - I would suggest that you bag them into single serving sizes so that as you eat them you aren't having half a bag at time.

I have a problem with self sabotage - I bake something for the kids but often eat what's left myself. I've found that if I portion it and freeze then it lasts a long time and I am limiting how much and when.

Good for you as you make changes for your health.

Pounds lost: 27.0

0 29.25 58.5 87.75

117

Posts: 252
7/6/12 8:56 A

Yes do not over-indulge, it could be costly, make better purchase choices

current weight: 376.0

422 399 376 353

330

Posts: 626
7/6/12 8:30 A

As far as the salad dressing goes...I had a similar problem (with only one bottle of full-fat ranch, but still...)
So, I bought fat free ranch, and mixed them. (Often just used 1tbsp of each on the salad.) It winds up tasting like the low-fat ranch (I don't usually like the fat free, it tastes funny to me).

Other than that...honestly, I just pitched a bunch of stuff. Some things I was able to incorporate, like the regular pasta...which won't kill you, if you watch the serving sizes...you can even mix it with whole- or multi-grain.
I donated a lot to my local soup kitchen...I mean, the Hamburger Helper just had to GO. No way to make that good for you. Same with mac n cheese (I make it myself now) and a lot of other things...Ramen, yakisoba, and all those high-sodium badboys...
My advice is to donate them or pitch them and start over. Use what you reasonably can (like I said with the salad dressing and pasta situation), and get the rest OUT OF THE HOUSE!!

current weight: 167.2

167.2 159.15 151.1 143.05

135

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/6/12 6:41 A

EVILPASSION:

As a lifelong "list maker," I'm rubbing my virtual hands in glee at your link. Thanks for sharing it, along with the idea of keeping a running tab on inventory items.

I do keep a running inventory in an Exel document for items I've packed into my freezer since it's harder to see and remember what's behind that closed door. But, other than a computerized list of what I consider standard stock in the pantry I composed once before moving to a new house, I've always just pretty much eye-balled my pantry shelves.

Keeping a list would certainly help in rotating, if you listed the date you bought the items along with their names.

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

Posts: 78
7/6/12 1:36 A

I see a lot of people are talking about an inventory. Try the form at the end of this link -- do the inventory, write the item down, put a half hash for each item ( / ) and as you use it, half hash the other way ( \ ) so it makes an x. this way you'll be able to see instantly what you have left. If you are the one who controls the pantry, this works great!

http://organizedhome.com/printable/household-notebook/pantry-inventory

Pounds lost: 19.0

0 36 72 108

144

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/5/12 2:19 P

HEALTHYOTTER:

Your suggestion to mix brown and white rice as a way to merge over into a healthier panty pretty much smacked me on my forehead. Of course! Why wait until I've used up all my white rice to buy the healthier brown rice--when I'm excited and motivated about tossing my pantry now? So simple! So evident! So practical!

And now, for my "but." But, do you cook both rices together? How does the white rice come out, since it's supposed to cook faster than brown? (Of course, I'm assuming you use the regular rice, like me, and not the instant rice.)

--Nancy

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

Posts: 946
7/5/12 2:00 P

Donating to the food bank is my favorite suggestion. When school starts, bring the donations you no longer want to the teacher's lounge at school. Another option is bring them to whatever "lessons" your kids are taking this summer. I have merged "white" rice / pasta with "brown" when combining open groceries. I figure small changes along the way.

current weight: 196.0

248 223 198 173

148

SparkPoints: (10,744)
Fitness Minutes: (3,476)
Posts: 270
7/5/12 1:20 P

There are lots of science experiements for kids that can be done using soda. See if your local elementary science teacher or a summer camp for kids would like them. If you want, try them yourself:
1.Soak a chicken bone in coca-cola for a couple of weeks. It will change it's color and density. Gross, but cool at the same time. Makes you realize you really don't want it in your body if it can do that to a chicken bone, what's it doing to your insides?
2. Soak dirty pennies overnight in diet cola. Rinse and rub with a clean cloth. The coke will have loosened all the grime by eating through it. Again, gross, but cool. And again, if it can eat through penny grime, do you really want to ingest it?
3. Use a variety of flavors and types (Diet, regular) of soda to see which ones will produce the biggest soda "fountains" by dropping several mentos candies in them. Do this one outside, on concrete away from anything you don't want sprayed with soda.

current weight: 162.2

174 157 140 123

106

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/5/12 12:46 P

Aaron261: Thanks for picking up on my Wish of the Day request for a healthier dill pickle. I checked out the link you sent.

Well, since I'm a do-it-yourselfer whenever possible, I actually found low sodium dill pickles recipes online! Here's one that I'll try over the next few weeks, now that this particular bee is buzzing inside my bonnet: http://www.lowsodiumcooking.com/free/NoSaltDillPickles.htm

Seems an extra jar of dill pickles can be eliminated from my pantry!

However did we cope before the Internet?

--Nancy

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

SparkPoints: (2,644)
Fitness Minutes: (2,192)
Posts: 53
7/5/12 12:38 P

@NANCYHOME247 Hi! I just saw your message. I just read about no sodium pickles on a wonderful blog about low sodium foods. Let me link you to it. I hear they are good. They're called Delicious Concepts No Salt = No Guilt Dills. Haven't tried them yet. dontsalt.blogspot.com/2012/05/eureka-ive-f
ound-pickles-at-delicious.html

current weight: 256.0

283 276.25 269.5 262.75

256

Posts: 23
7/5/12 8:37 A

What do you have in your pantry that is so bad? Having a bag of chips or a box of cookies is not going to bring about the end of the world. Everyone needs a little treat. It is all about portion control. It is a hard thing to do but we all must do it. Going forward make better choices at the grocery store. When I looked at my pantry I decided the food that I really did not want to eat I donated to local food pantry. The rest of it I worked into my diet. The can of soup that was a little high in calorie and salt became a part of my dinner. Since I tracked what I was eating I could take the higher fat and salt into account and make adjustments during the day. I have always allowed myself a treat at the end of the day. A cookie is fine for me. The bag of chips, well the bag was already opened. Eventually they became stale and I had to throw it out. Juice and soda will keep. You can use it when you have company. Good luck.

current weight: 207.0

207 187.75 168.5 149.25

130

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/4/12 2:51 P

CMSLOCUM1: Thanks for your kind words.

Now, bring me up to speed: I googled "pinterest" and STILL don't know what it is. Can you send me a private mail and explain so's I can catch up with one more aspect of the 2010's?

I do have a massive recipe collection, having begun editing, standardizing, Americanizing, digitizing, saving, indexing and printing hard copy cards before all the recipe websites popped up. I've got a whole section on salads (translate that into 18" of index cards, printed out on both sides).

Salads don't have to be boring! Now that you've suggested it, some of those high-sodium vegetable cans in my pantry are likely candidates to star in some spectacularly unique salad in the near future.They don't all have to be added to soups.

If only they made low sodium dill pickles! Alas, I think those will be with me, regardless.

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

SparkPoints: (949)
Fitness Minutes: (577)
Posts: 217
7/4/12 2:26 P

I might be repeating but #1 I think you have inspired a lot of us to do an inventory of what we have. I agree with so much that has been said. I much prefer 1 Tbsp of whole fat salad dressing to the fat free stuff. I do like some of the "light" version. One thing to watch is that on so much of the fat free stuff the manufacturer has added sugar to replace the fat so learn to read those labels. Do you pinterest? I have seen a recipe on there where you can make a cake from a cake mix with greek yogurt. I would definitely donate things that seem to trigger binges for you. For example, I can buy cheetos (although I now buy baked) for my teens but those don't tempt me. Unfortunately, ice cream isn't allowed in the house because one bite and I am on a roll:) I beef up everything with vegetables now even salads. No longer just lettuce it might be a greek salad with olives, red onion, banana peppers, etc. Once in a while let yourself have a "treat" just be sure it doesn't become daily!

current weight: 129.4

142 138.5 135 131.5

128

Posts: 20
7/4/12 2:04 P

You could always donate it to a food bank.

current weight: 220.0

220 205 190 175

160

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/4/12 11:35 A

Hi, SMDGEO:

Remember the song "Do Re Mi" from "The Sound of Music?" It begins, "Let's start at the very beginning; it's a very good place to start!"

I would then add, "When you read you begin with A,B, C; To eat well, you begin with a clean pantry!"

Seems like a no-brainer to me: to make a permanent in our diets, we first must change over the foods we stock! Baby steps--choose one offending can or box at a time and think how to make it healthier.

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

SparkPoints: (151)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 4
7/4/12 11:11 A

I am glad to have stumbled upon this post. I have read lots of great ideas for getting my pantry and refrig. into better shape.

current weight: 214.2

215 200 185 170

155

Posts: 408
7/4/12 7:01 A

My first thought was that it sounds like a perfect excuse to throw a party! You could get rid of all the nasty chips, beer and soda in no time at all. And you'd also become a hero to your friends - if you're not already their hero, that is.

Pounds lost: 10.0

0 3.25 6.5 9.75

13

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/4/12 6:54 A

NANA2ANGELS: What a startling discovery, to realize over the years I've updated my gardens, furniture, clothing, makeup, pots&pans&kitchen gadgets, but my pantry remained the same. Same number of soup cans, same number of cereal boxes, cake mixes, beverages--while my family grew up and out. And here I was, same pantry stock like it was still supporting a family of 5!

Now that I'm updating my eating habits, that pantry looks mighty old-fashioned and outdated! I'm having a ball, cleaning it out and eating it down to a healthy size and shape!

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

Posts: 44
7/4/12 6:43 A

I have long since cleaned out the pantry. Now it's a matter of reading the ingredients prior to buying. My husband has health issues and is pre-diabetic so I always read the labels and whatever treat I buy for the grandkids is something my husband doesn't like

current weight: -18.0  under

20 10 0 -10

-20

SparkPoints: (31,763)
Fitness Minutes: (19,414)
Posts: 1,630
7/3/12 12:50 P

Since my grandchildren are always exercising, I give my daughter whatever is in my pantry that I should not eat. If they will not accept the items I give them to a food pantry. I am committed to not each what I have committed to not eat.

current weight: 173.0

200 186 172 158

144

Posts: 58
7/3/12 11:44 A

I've been there and sometimes continue to do so when something goes on sale. I now take the noodle/rice packages and use all water and no milk and when it asks for butter I either omit it or use spray butter. My family has no clue and I'm eating the nutritional information at face value. I also make homemade nachos with the doritos; my own little plate with the serving and top with LF or FF cheese and veggies. I no longer use fresh eggs, eggbeaters the whole way. I like to save the calories whenever I can.

Definitely pawn the soda onto others to consume. I find that whenever I am invited somewhere and I need to bring a dish that I make something from the pantry that I know I won't eat and then leave the leftovers.

current weight: 171.0

208 191 174 157

140

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/3/12 5:15 A

Larcher99:

For years I've described myself as "a little donkey slowly climbing up the hill" to explain my attitude towards investing. In other words, I don't want to experience high-high's or low-low's, just a sure-footed steady climb in the right direction.

You're on the path to a wealthy nutritional future, just being a little donkey and taking slow, deliberate steps in the right direction! So what if it takes until Christmas? Sounds to me like you've got a great, well-thought out plan for transforming that pantry.

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

Posts: 11,815
7/3/12 12:15 A

I agree with donating some. "water" some down with veggies, etc.

Pounds lost: 20.0

0 10 20 30

40

Posts: 69
7/3/12 12:09 A

Pick out ten of the worst items and donate them. That way you're not getting rid of your entire stash.

I hate to throw out food. I'm one of those people who wants to clean their plates and even finish up the food on my kids' plates- I hate to waste or throw out food. Then I realized that I am not a human garbage disposal! Extra food doesn't have to go into my stomach, it can go into the trash or, if it's a jar of unopened food, it can go to a charity.

current weight: 165.0

201 184.5 168 151.5

135

SparkPoints: (1,104)
Fitness Minutes: (578)
Posts: 2
7/2/12 5:13 P

I'm glad you posted this, because I am going through the same thing with my pantry. I started working on the counting of my calories based on eating the items I have at home and I have found that I have entirely too many carbs in my house. I'm slowly eating them. It's going to take me a while. I figure by christmas they should be gone. Good luck with getting rid of your unhealthy pantry.

SparkPoints: (204)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 44
7/2/12 2:57 P

Thanks Dulcie,
Yes, that message was a good thing to read today.
I would add that i have read many places "kidneys function best on plain water"
Works for me

SparkPoints: (204)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 44
7/2/12 2:51 P

They are called food pantrys often the USPS mailman will have a mailbox pick up.
Look in your area or ask at church where to take them
I am not good at calculating if i add processed foods.
Give them away is my solution.

SparkPoints: (5,011)
Fitness Minutes: (2,466)
Posts: 25
7/2/12 1:22 P

I would either eat them gradually, mix them with more healthy items, or my personal favorite- give them to the neighbors! If unopened, I like the idea of donating to the local food bank.

SparkPoints: (9,580)
Fitness Minutes: (6,875)
Posts: 143
7/2/12 12:06 P

I would definitely look into donating most of them to the local food bank. We all get cravings and need to have the occasional indulgence. It's always easier to create a lifestyle changing by making smaller adjustments rather than just jumping in and quitting all your fav foods cold turkey. Perhaps allowing yourself to eat a serving once a week of one of those bad pantry items is the answer. If keeping it there is too tempting (out of sight, out of mind) then donating it all is the right answer.

44 Maintenance Weeks

0 15 30 45

60

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/2/12 10:00 A

I was appalled that plain old soda crackers still pack some calories. 5 crackers makes 1 serving (REALLY???). 5 crackers = 60 calories, with 1.5 g fat. Learning that was pretty deflating. So, my mental trick to help prevent me from eating half a tube at a time is to simply NOT take the box out of the pantry. Removing just... okay, 10, crackers and carrying them away from the pantry assures I don't mindlessly keep popping them in my mouth. And I eat them slowly and deliberately, enjoying the flavor, the saltiness, the smoosh of spread or dab of dip on top. When my handful of crackers are gone, I don't tend to go back for more.

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

SparkPoints: (4,407)
Fitness Minutes: (2,617)
Posts: 84
7/2/12 9:52 A

Donate things to the food banks is an excellent idea. I also have donated some to our church. It gives me such a positive boost helping others. Remember to enjoy things in moderation. A handful of crackers is ok, but the whole box a disaster

current weight: 175.4

190 173.75 157.5 141.25

125

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/2/12 7:34 A

Dulcie147:

Wow! You're a self-help book on 2 legs! You've given me a couple good suggestions on how to satisfy my cravings intelligently. I do love wine and haven't had any since I began SP'sprogram. But, after reading your note, I think I can safely enjoy a little bit of it if I add it to a tumbler of seltzer. Two or three ounces of wine won't add that many calories, and it'll do wonders for my mood! Seltzer's something I do keep in the pantry--it's 0 calorie, 0 nutritional value--to give me a switch-off from water.A couple squirts of Mio flavor enhancer makes it into the nearest thing to a soda substitute: couldn't find any bad warnings about it on the Internet, and I think it has a quite pleasant taste.

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

SparkPoints: (289)
Fitness Minutes: (731)
Posts: 20
7/2/12 5:27 A

Hi All!

Once you've got your pantries cleaned out of junk food, there are a few rules that I follow, and a couple of recommendations that I'd like to share with the group:

1. Make grocery shopping a cash-only experience. Make a list of essentials, estimate how much the items will cost, go to the ATM and withdraw that amount of cash. Leave your credit and ATM cards in the car or at home. If you have 'just enough' cash for what you need, it makes it a lot easier to skip the $5.00 box of cookies or pint of Haagen Daaz.

2. Don't ever, ever buy fruit or vegetables in a can. Frozen vegetables are good for you, but always buy fresh fruit from the produce department. Canned fruit is not only drenched with sugar and extremely fattening, but it is also unnecessary and a tad strange (in my opinion). When you buy fresh fruit, it must be eaten within a reasonable period of time (so no more storing in the pantry for months), and no sugar or syrup is added.

3. For all of you mothers, your children should be eating what YOU eat. If you don't eat mac 'n cheese, your kids shouldn't, either. Everyone in the household should be eating the same meals, together (if possible).

4. I have a serious ice cream addiction. I have found that Yoplait Whips are so delicious and satisfy my sweet tooth so much that I no longer crave ice cream! Another tip is that Smart Ones ice cream desserts are absolutely delicious. They're portion-controlled and low in fat, so traditional (and expensive) ice cream is no longer on the top of my list.

5. If you love chocolate or other types of candy, go for hard candy (such as Werther's butter toffee, LifeSaver's Creamsavers, etc.) I especially like to suck on these candies at work- low in fat, long-lasting, and mind-stimulating :).

6. If you enjoy alcoholic beverages, these can be modified as well. You can substitute a gin and tonic for gin and diet tonic, stick to drinks like scotch and soda (no calories in soda water), or opt for wine with a lower calorie content (meaning a lower percentage of alcohol). Avoid sweet or sugary martinis, mixers like juice or cola, etc. You will be amazed at how many calories that some cocktails contain.

7. Cut the amount of cream and sugar that you put in your coffee (or eliminate one or both entirely). This will save you quite a bit of fat and most likely more than 100+ calories.

8. If you have a vending machine at work and cannot throw it out the window :), bring in pre-packaged amounts of amounts. Put 1/2 to 1 serving of almonds in a bag and bring it to work every day to avoid a potato chip or candy bar binge.

9. It probably goes without saying, but no soda! No sugary ice tea, Snapple, juice, etc. Don't drink your calories- water only :).

I hope one of these suggestions helped at least one person- good luck to all!

current weight: 152.4

160 156.75 153.5 150.25

147

Posts: 490
7/2/12 1:12 A

My pantry looks like I expect WW3 and severe rationing at any minute, so I need to just stop shopping. My closets are in the same condition. Giving stuff away doesn't help, instead it just frees up space for future shopping trips. So I have a bunch of bad food that I know I won't eat filling up part of my pantry, until I get the shopping bug under control. Then it all gets tossed.

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/1/12 9:06 P

BikiniBound:

Thanks so much for taking the time to share your suggestions with me. I feel absolutely swaddled by caring folks such as yourself.

Those Black Bean Brownies have me intrigued, and I’ll follow up and search for the recipe. I’m a great cook--gourmet cook, NOT a HEALTHY cook—and I’ve got a lot to learn and rethink when I enter the kitchen now. I love trying new foods, new spices, and unusual combinations. Those brownies sound right up my alley. And just this afternoon I bought a can of ORGANIC black beans, having read the label on the regular ones (a first for me) and compared the sodium content.

Did I see mention on your Spark Page that you’ve tried the Curves route? You’ll see a photo I had taken in a women’s gym similar to Curves a few years back. I worked hard to get into that shape, and since then it was pretty much downhill as I piled on the lbs. SparkPeople’s approach to nutrition combined with fitness, a total lifestyle change, makes perfect sense to me. I’m confident (once my pantry’s expunged) in finding longlasting success here… even if I never repeat my Curves photo!

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

Posts: 159
7/1/12 9:05 P

One shelf in the pantry is for his junk food and I just do not look at it. Out of sight, out of mind!

current weight: 178.0

178 173 168 163

158

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
7/1/12 8:53 P

WALLOWA:

Reading your irrefutable logic, there's no room for argument! Your arithmatic approach reminds me of what my husband would say if he were here (he's overseas working... won't be home for a visit until next spring). As an engineer, he has a very logical approach to our disagreements, backing me into virtual corners with the same kind of logic that you used!

So, the way out of this current corner is to just do it--clean it out one way or another, and make a new start. And I'm proud to say that that's just what I'm doing. Some items were donated at church today. Some I've set aside to "dilute" with healthy additions. Some will hit the trash can this coming Tuesday. Feels GOOD!

Today after church was marketing day for me. My first absolutely conscious and deliberate purchase of "more healthy" over "less healthy" pantry replacement was a can of black beans: the regular can oozed sodium; the organic can had 1/3 the sodium. So for 20 cents difference... I made a good choice. (Although I'm still scratching my head over this sodium business.)

I had a chuckle with another Sparker about how we feed our 4-footed family better than we feed the 2-footed one! Judging from the magestic beauties I saw pictured on your Spark Page, I've an inkling you've done the same thing!

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

SparkPoints: (347)
Fitness Minutes: (390)
Posts: 1
7/1/12 6:44 P

1

Edited by: KIMABRAMS at: 7/1/2012 (18:46)

Posts: 1,776
7/1/12 1:28 P

H Nancy-
My pantry and cabinets are full of the same stuff-although now some is healthy. My first thought when reading your post listing the items you have is to suggest you go thru and see exactly what you have and how much of the items. For example, the salad dressings. I like the idea of dipping your fork to get the most out of one serving (remember, Spark is meant to teach you how to still incorporate those things into your life and still eat healthy). I also like the 'dilute' option,and I have actually combined a half-serving of the full stuff with a portion of a light or FF dressing. Then just incorporate those nutritionals into your meal plan. It may mean you have to sacrifice something else during the day. Anyhow-back to the quantities of the items..since you are not ready to get rid of all just yet, go thru and see how much of the item you have. Set aside 1 or 2 (or perhaps just keep the favorite) and donate the rest to a church or local food bank. I don't think grocery stores allow you to return food just because. I think there needs to be an issue other than 'I no longer want it'. Or give the overage to family and friends

A couple more thoughts after reading thru some more posts. The cake/cookie/brownie mixes. Bake up a mix once a week or every couple of weeks and take the treats to the office - sorry, don't remember if you work or not. You will be the office hero! Or..you could make the item and cut and freeze individual portions for when you need something. A healthy idea on the cake/brownie mix is Black Bean Brownies..Don't knock them til you try them! There are a couple of versions in Spark, either in the recipes or message boards. I prefer the basic original one I first came across with simply mix, beans and water. You (or anyone else) can message me if you would like the recipe as I will probably miss the request if you reply on this board. Also check out HungryGirl.com fo some healthier recipes for your favorite goodies!

Edited by: BIKINIBOUND!! at: 7/1/2012 (16:26)

current weight: 203.0

219 201.75 184.5 167.25

150

Posts: 46
7/1/12 10:28 A

Take it to work, they will eat anything,LOL!! Or simply toss it, seems like a waste of money but your co-insurance on a heart attack will cost you alot more than $50 worth of snacks!

Pounds lost: 0.0

0 2.5 5 7.5

10

Posts: 12
7/1/12 7:52 A

I've got two girls and a husband who love their snacks. I've left the pantry alone, but I'm not restocking it with garbage. I'm making sure that the new snack choices are a bit healthier than what was there before. Seems to be working so far. Fingers crossed

Posts: 3,294
6/30/12 4:56 P

donate to a food bank, gift to a skinny friend, give to kids living away from the family home or toss it.

Pounds lost: 62.6

0 21.75 43.5 65.25

87

SparkPoints: (89,046)
Fitness Minutes: (169,512)
Posts: 2,077
6/30/12 3:49 P

Food pantry is always good, though I try to donate healthy stuff to my pantry if I can. Otherwise, consider reframing the cost of the food that may be a trigger for you - example - cake and frosting (mixed from boxes etc) - 170 for cake, 120 for frosting x 12 = one whole cake about 3500 calories

If you Chop wood continuously or Run a five - minute mile. or Jump on a stationary bike and ride it at a pace of 20 MPH it will take you 350 minutes (about 3 hours straight!) to use up those calories.

Makes that $2 box of cake mix seem pretty expensive, doesn't it? Especially when you compare it to the $25 "diet pills" would cost you - if you went that route!

So... don't feel like you are wasting it if you toss it or give it out - feel like you are saving yourself $20 everytime you do.

Pounds lost: 6.5

0 9.5 19 28.5

38

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
6/30/12 3:45 P

It's very hard for me (and also, apparently, for you!) to eat "just one cookie." For me, that's more of a preview of what the next 5 will taste like! Once I finish the opened bag of Keeblers in my pantry, it's probably not a good idea to replace it with anything. I think, if I absolutely can't resist the craving when I'm in the store, I'll just buy a couple really, really good cookies from the fresh bakery and indulge myself in a controlled fashion instead of a bag that I'll just come to regret buying once it's opened.

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

SparkPoints: (23,922)
Fitness Minutes: (44,150)
Posts: 649
6/30/12 12:47 P

I second the idea of donating to the food pantry. I do this a lot and it feels good that someone will be able to use it. I had an extra pkg of Weight Watchers oatmeal cookies, which turned into a binge food. Threw out the rest of the open pkg (wasn't that much LEFT ) and donated the unopened box to my local food pantry.

Jae

current weight: 184.1

234 210.5 187 163.5

140

SparkPoints: (81)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 3
6/29/12 6:32 P

oh yes, and a serios coupon addiction to cope with also.
I am going to the farmers market in the morning instead of the grocery store for my weekly stock up, Fresh, fresh veggies and fruits!

Posts: 375
6/29/12 4:57 P

Everyone has some great suggestions! I don't know if this has already been mentioned, but if not:

For the canned veggies, to lower sodium content - rinse with regular water before enjoying!

For the fruit in syrup - rinse with water as well!

As for the boxed baking supplies: Using egg whites as you came up with is a great start! Also pureed fruit (banana, unsweetened applesauce, etc.) can be used in place of oil in the recipes.

And everything else can be enjoyed - in moderation!

current weight: 152.2

185 173.75 162.5 151.25

140

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
6/29/12 1:36 P

What? Do you not love your sister? (just chuckling here...!) Actually, I wish I had a sister to help me out! Ah, so that's why I turned to SparkPeople. Maybe we should start a subgroup called SparkSisters, or has that already been done?

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

SparkPoints: (33,334)
Fitness Minutes: (62,194)
Posts: 1,278
6/29/12 12:55 P

I kept some things that aren't the healthiest, but I threw away some things that had been opened and made my sister take the really evil stuff (Girl Scout Thin Mint Cookies I curse you!)

current weight: 163.0

248 223 198 173

148

SparkPoints: (64,741)
Fitness Minutes: (32,337)
Posts: 3,708
6/29/12 10:44 A

I know that you've already had a lot of answers on this one, but I think it's a great question, so I will add in my comments too.

1. If things are within their "best before" date, consider donating to the local food bank

2. If you're like me, and hate to throw things out (you paid for them, it's like throwing out money), use smaller portions.

3. Maybe you can add some new, healthy items to add to the older, unhealthy choices.

Pounds lost: 16.0

0 7.5 15 22.5

30

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
6/29/12 10:25 A

VANILLANNE: I like your idea of thinking about questionable pantry food as "spoiled" or "moldy." Makes it much easier to dispose of it--instead of succumbing to the temptation of eating it up yourself, or giving a food pantry food you don't consider fit to eat. I think the mental tweak is a fantastic aid to saying adios to those Doritos!

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

SparkPoints: (4,800)
Fitness Minutes: (455)
Posts: 162
6/29/12 10:15 A

Toss it. If a total overhaul is too hard, just do a shelve at a time or toss the junk items that tempt you the most. It's money spent, whether you eat it or not, the money is already spent ....and gone. If it isn't going to bring you to health, eating it is essentially spending/wasting more money (on health issues, larger sized clothing costs more, etc..). being heavy costs $$ and exacts a huge toll. You wouldn't eat food that has mold or has spoiled... you'd pitch it. Think of the stuff to be pitched as moldy or spoiled.

To those who 'donate' their pantry discards to their co-workers.. Please don't! I work in a church office. There is always food left from events... goodies, junk food, baked goods, etc.... donated to the church office. I can't tell you how hard it is to turn down the temptations, because it feels wasteful and because I am a recovering sugar addict --- Their kindness isn't doing me any favors.

-anne

Edited by: VANILLANNE at: 6/29/2012 (10:19)

Pounds lost: 13.0

0 23.75 47.5 71.25

95

Posts: 209
6/29/12 10:05 A

Good ideas!! So far I throw away out dated items and try to use what's left in an healthier manor. I do need to donate. Some items we don't. Like anymore.

May SparkPoints: 0

0 50 100 150

200

Posts: 4,295
6/29/12 12:34 A

I periodically clean the pantry and throw out stale dated items and donate things we haven't used in months to the food pantry. My husband will buy things like pork and beans, chili, canned soup thinking he will use it but he never does.. and I don't fix that type of stuff. If I'm at work and he has to fix his own lunch he will just have crackers and peanut butter!

Pounds lost: 79.0

0 20.75 41.5 62.25

83

Posts: 172
6/28/12 11:07 P

White pasta/rice: Donate what's not open, get a tax receipt, and cut what is open with whole wheat or brown rice, as those can be an acquired taste.

Snacks and sweets: The fastest way to get rid of junk food was to truck down to the IT department, put it in the closest break room, and attach a post-it reading "FREE!" I can tell you from experience (11 years of working the help desk); I've never met a computer tech that refused the prospect of a free snack. Add soda, and you'll have the computer guy's eternal gratitude.

Full-fat ranch? Look, sometimes the "low fat" stuff tastes awful or otherwise won't cut it. Ditto with "diet" or reduced-fat versions. If you're going to indulge in a vice, save your cash and your calories and have a **small** amount of the top-shelf stuff that will satisfy. Better one ounce of high-quality cheese than a half-package of tasteless, waxy "low calorie processed cheese food." A child-size cone of high-quality ice cream is worth a pint of Skinny Cow. You can cut your ranch dressing with yogurt, or use less (a good tactic is to put the dressing in a tiny cup on the side, and dip your fork in the dressing between bites, not applying it to the salad).

Pounds lost: 36.2

0 21.5 43 64.5

86

SparkPoints: (2,243)
Fitness Minutes: (334)
Posts: 44
6/28/12 10:05 P

Personally, I keep the baking stuff I need for holidays and I don't think about it (but I can't keep chocolate chips). The rest of the stuff went in the garbage. It was enlightening. At first I thought food pantry, then I thought no, why give away poison? If i were a good person I would have made a financial donation but I didn't. Nothing like throwing something away as garbage to make you realize it is garbage and not "perfectly good" or that "someday I will be able to eat it again." A few things are there for my husband, and I cheat on them. I have my own shelf. I wish I could get rid of every-thing not on my diet.

current weight: 226.0

233 212.25 191.5 170.75

150

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
6/28/12 9:47 P

Lynn2574: Wow, you sound like you got organized from the get-go after your wake-up call! I admire your ability to plan ahead and logically change over your pantry.

I've got my box ready to take to church this weekend for the food pantry, and I'm proud to say I've already figured out how to use up a few cans in a healthy manner. I'm using this opportunity to also downsize my "personal grocery store," so I've got a long ways to go before my pantry room boasts the healthiest products I can stock.

Your suggestions, along with those that preceded you, have been so thoughtful and practical, I feel armed with enough knowledge to be a success at eating up my unhealthy pantry! I hope in 6 months' time, my pantry mirrors yours!

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

Posts: 416
6/28/12 9:29 P

Hi Nancy!
I'm a couponer, and had a rather large pantry of food when I got my wake up call. As a social worker, I see daily how many people in my community are truly hungry. I went through and took out the items that are just plain unhealthy. No way I can make them lower-calories. Those items I donated to a local food bank. This included A LOT of baking mixes, full fat mayo, crackers/snacks, etc.

Next, I took inventory of my "use by" dates. A lot of them were plenty in the future, and I planned pot luck meals, guest meals, and meals for my family for when I wasn't eating with them.

Then I figured out what items I could work into my diet. Canned beans, pasta sauces, canned fruits, etc., all made that cut.

In the 6 months that I've been eating healthy, my pantry has seen an evolution. You know longer see plastic tubs of high fat snacks, but you WILL see plenty of salsa, canned veggies and beans, oats, etc.

Good luck!

Pounds lost: 190.0

0 65 130 195

260

Posts: 695
6/28/12 8:21 P

With the pop and snacks, invite a few people over to have a "party"...watch movies or play cards. Supply a veggie tray (use a bit of full fat dressing mixed with nonfat yogurt for dip) and have some juice and selzter and go to town. YOU eat the lower fat stuff and maybe a couple Doritos and everyone else can eat up your bad stuff. Not great for your friends but you get an easy social occasion, good for your mood, and get rid of stuff fast.

current weight: 130.0

136 134 132 130

128

Posts: 26
6/28/12 12:02 P

Thanks NANCYHOME247 for the idea. Just got a bunch of kale yesterday!

Pounds lost: 3.1

0 2.75 5.5 8.25

11

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
6/28/12 9:22 A

Just thought of another way to "cut" another high-sodium pantry item and get rid of it.

Kale was on sale--huge bunch for $1.69--and I only used half of it for yesterday's dinner recipe. The other half, I just wilted in a big pot (like you wilt spinach--water clinging to leaves, heat until it starts to wilt, cover the pan, turn off the heat--and leave it alone) and then portioned into 2-cup ziplok baggies to freeze.

I've got a spare ribs & sauerkraut recipe to cook up soon, and that'll use up a can of sauerkraut (RINSED, to eliminate sodium and sugar!). One of the baggies of kale will go in with the sauerkraut to boost fiber and vitamins.

Amazing how, once the brain starts chewing on a challenge, the ideas that begin to flow!

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22

Posts: 59
6/28/12 8:54 A

Totally Agree!!!! Fresh fruit in season is a great thing to freeze for the future.

Posts: 59
6/28/12 8:53 A

If you have chips in the pantry - go buy some baggies. Then PORTION out the chips into baggies. When you have the craving, just take one bag and thats it. If you can't just stick to one baggie serving - then just toss the darn things.

Posts: 59
6/28/12 8:52 A

Donate can and box items that are high caloric such as chili's, cream soups, baked beans with lots of sugar.
Soups, keep the ones that are not high caloric and high fat. Have them with a veggie salad.
Beans, donate the ones with high caloric/sugar content. Others, such as chick peas, black-eyed peas, black beans can be used in salads - just run them under COLD water to try to reduce the sodium. Bush's Best makes some low sugar beans now and they are excellent. Try Southwestern Black Beans and Texas Ranchero. Chickpeas are great for hummus and a tablespoon or two of hummus with celery or jicama is a great snack.
Pasta's - make pasta primavera with 2oz. of cooked pasta and LOTS of VEGGIES or add fish such as shrimp, mussels.

Posts: 208
6/28/12 8:13 A

We are gradually using up pantry items that don't fit in our new lifestyle which includes no wheat/gluten. Sometimes fixing these items for company to go along with a meal for them, not us. Also make-and-take items we won't be eating. Need to make a run for the local food pantry soon to further cut the cord.

current weight: 3.0  over

5 2.5 0 -2.5

-5

SparkPoints: (898)
Fitness Minutes: (845)
Posts: 36
6/28/12 6:35 A

I think a freezer is still good to have, mine has a very few frozen diner options, then a lot of frozen berries (went to the strawberry fields of a farmer where you can pick your own and pay less per lbs and I picked a lot), freshly caught and then frozen rainbow trouts (brothers catches), frozen vegetables, frozen gooseberries (from grandma's garden), frozen meals I cooked but cooked too much (soup/stock and stuff), frozen peeled white asparagusI peeled it) from the farmer, cause white asparagus season is short (ended last week)
Frozen veggies and fruit can be better than bought stuff sometimes because they are picked ripe and frozen at once, while a lot of stuff we get in the grocery stores is picked before it is fully ripe so it'll survive the transport and tends to lose extra vitamins while being transported.

Grandma goes even further and buys game meat for the freezer and beef from a very organic farm where the cows are running 'free' on fields and are on a diet of mostly hey and grass, she usually buys about half a cow at once and freezes it in portion sizes for the year

A freezer is not always evil or enabling only bad habits, it also enables good habits

current weight: 132.0

132 128.75 125.5 122.25

119

Posts: 2,094
6/28/12 1:54 A

I have a clutter problem in most areas of my home and life so this thread is appealing to me. I simply can't waste so I am working on finding a recipe or creating a dish that uses up something I have and adding fresh ingredients. So I make soups and casseroles that use frozen, canned, or boxed items. "Home-made soup" for example has as its' base a can, but has added vegetables, beans, bits of cooked meat, etc. I begged my daughter to learn from my mistakes so NOT to get a freezer, because I believe it is best to buy fresh and eat fresh!

current weight: 142.0

155 148.5 142 135.5

129

SparkPoints: (5,710)
Fitness Minutes: (12,204)
Posts: 39
6/28/12 1:19 A

This is a tangential pantry good idea --

If you tend to collect odd ends of `just that one dish' ingredients, consider cooking in a particular style or ethnicity for several days in a row, long enough to use up the bottle of whatever. Also, you can compare the flavors of that region, like a mini-vacation in your head.

May Minutes: 718

0 90 180 270

360

SparkPoints: (14,299)
Fitness Minutes: (8,345)
Posts: 531
6/27/12 7:14 P

I am guessing that getting rid of the stuff is not the route you want to go, or you would have just done that. There are some great sugestions about mixing the foods with more healthy options. If the soups are cream soups, you could add some low sodium chicken broth to them to lighten them up. You could also add fresh veggies or chicken to the soups you have.

Sometimes it is hard to resist sales. But try. : )

current weight: -1.6  under

5 2.5 0 -2.5

-5

Posts: 177
6/27/12 6:03 P

My poor husband doesn't really understand why I prefer to have fresh food in the fridge and practically nothing in the pantry. To me, most canned and boxed goods are no good for me, who has insulin-resistance and PCOS. But, to him, it's easy food: easy to prepare, easy to clean up, easy to serve. Whenever we are invited to a barbecue, he never thinks to grab real food--fruit, veggies, or different meats (chicken, pork). He prefers to bring hot dogs, potato chips and cookies. Our friends are Vegan, and although they don't say anything because they're great people, but I know that it may offend to be the only family eating meat. I've been able to enjoy what I like to eat and leave the other stuff for him and the kids. But, it bothers me whenever we're invited to our friends' barbecues, and all he wants to eat is junk--even to the non-Vegan families we know. They even eat better than we do.

current weight: 126.0

130 126.25 122.5 118.75

115

SparkPoints: (825)
Fitness Minutes: (947)
Posts: 8
6/27/12 4:40 P

My husband actually took the "trouble" food to the garage. It's still there for their comfort, but not inside to trip me on my journey. Baby-steps.

Pounds lost: 15.0

0 25.25 50.5 75.75

101

SparkPoints: (13,935)
Fitness Minutes: (8,305)
Posts: 535
6/27/12 4:32 P

Does 30 cans of Campbell's soup count? I'm thinking so... every time they go on sale, I think it's going to be the last time. Getting hard to rotate the new cans to the back, so I've vowed to pass up the next sale! Plus, I'm horrified by the amount of sodium in Campbells regular cans, anyhow.

Pounds lost: 6.4

0 5.5 11 16.5

22