I was always skinny, too, and then one day noticed that I was looking a bit matronly. I, too, wanted to get back into all my cute little clothes and keep myself healthy as I approach menopause.
I had always exercised aerobically, but it didn't seem to be doing the trick any longer. What worked for me was to start a strength training program and build muscle that one gradually loses over the years. The muscle burns more calories and, although I am gaining muscle, I am losing body fat. It is fun to watch my body redefine itself and to regain the figure of my youth -- or close to it
So, try it, if you haven't. I tell all my friends it is the elixir of youth and some are finally (after a year) starting to pay attention. One has joined me and others are seriously considering it.
It's just harder to lose weight as we get older. Strength training helps tremendously to halt this slow accumulation of pounds through the years.
SPARK_COACH_JEN 7/19/05 11:39 A
Hi Debi!
I'm not sure how HRT relates to weight loss, but I would think it might just be harder to lose weight, not that you can't. I don't think it's very responsible of your doctor to say "just live with it" if you gain weight from the HRT. I'll look into this a little more and see if I can come up with anything.
Treats, potlucks, all that stuff at work is a big temptation. I would suggest asking that a specific area (like a break room) be the place to put all of that stuff, and then you just not go in there. You're not going to be as tempted if you don't know what you're missing. Also try to keep some healthy snacks at your desk in case you get the munchies.
There are probably others you work with who are trying to lose weight or stay healthy, but they feel bad being the only ones not to devour the cake and cookies. So maybe you could start a healthy potluck or healthy snack day- I bet other people would be interested! You could all be a good source of support for each other too.
Just a few thoughts! I'm happy to help if you need anything, so just let me know!
Coach Jen
DRATCLIFF 7/19/05 9:15 A
Hi Jen - and thanks for responding. Actually I have about 34 lbs. to lose and somehow that weight hasn't slowed me down. However, what I do miss is wearing the clothes I LIKE rather than clothes to hide a multitude of sins. Also, since I'm on HRT I'm wondering if I'm fighting a losing battle due to that? The dr. says it will cause you to gain weight, just live with it. (?) What do you think?? And I do feel guilt from sitting at a desk all day and I cannot believe the amount of food that passes through this place! It is so hard to say "no" to all of it, the doughnuts, chocolate, cookies, on and on. Any ideas on that? I'm serious about this; I just really need to find some real tools and motivation!!
Debi
SPARK_COACH_JEN 7/18/05 4:49 P
Dratcliff,
I don't think this program is about denying yourself the things you enjoy. It's about learning to eat them in moderation. Are there things you would like to be able to do that your weight and health hold you back from? Maybe if you set some goals for yourself- not just to lose the weight but things you'll be able to do once you lose the weight (like hike your favorite trail or play with your kids or grandkids) that would be a bigger motivation.
I'm happy to help however I can! Just let me know if I can do anything!
Coach Jen
DRATCLIFF 7/18/05 4:06 P
No really! I was thin and you could bounce a dime off my stomach only 5 years ago. Then I started working fulltime and gained 10 lbs. a year. I keep saying I'm going to lose weight, I know how to lose weight, but I never had to diet or deny myself for 45 years!! This is too hard, no fun and I can't get excited about it. I'm so busy that most of the time I either forget or don't have time to list the foods I've eaten on SparkPeople, which I just really need to make a priority. Anybody got any ideas for making this fun??? Or even a burning desire?
