The 50 Million Pound Blog

When I have the urge for fast foods I think of how many calories are in the meal and how long it will take me to burn off the calories through exercise. This tactice quickly snaps my mind back on track towards a healthier alternative.

say goodbye to junk food if you want to lose weight.

I look at food like exercise. If I am willing to increase my exercise to eat off the plan then I eat it. If I'm not willing to work out longer or harder, then I don't eat it. Good luck everyone!

Whenever i see fatty foods such as fries, burgers i think of i think of heart stroke, getting stake in a wheelchair and can't have have all the fun i used to have. And hey it works for me.

It is getting much easier for me to avoid fast food when I consider how hard I'd have to work at the gym if I yield to temptation.It takes at least an hour at a relatively fast pace on the treadmill to lose the calories from just one order of fries or burger. That's crazy! Just last night I went to Mcdonald's for a yogurt parfait. When I got inside, my mind tried to force me to get my "regulars," double cheeseburger and fries. But what helped me say NO was looking at various overweight people in the restaurant. The cashiers, managers, and some customers. I want to be different. I not only want to look healthy, I want to be healthy.

Mowtown, for the after dinner candy urge (since I have the same cravings) last night I had a single serving of sugar free chocolate pudding (60 calories) and 4 strawberries. I'm telling you I was in heaven for less than 100 calories! I used my fingers and took my sweet time tasting the chocolate and slowly dipping each strawberry..mmmh.

Somewhere I heard, you know you're on your way to a lifestyle change when you crave healthy foods. Well today, with cookies in the other office again, I'm craving an apple! A big, crispy, juice running down my arm, apple! Oh my, how things are starting to change.

I just want everyone to keep up the good work and to keep posting..this is where I come when I'm discouraged or craving the pizza less than 30 steps away from my office. Yes we can!

Brenda, you might try steaming your vegetables instead of eating the raw ones. Also, there are many quick meals in the freezer section. The steamer vegetables are quick and good for you. You get a good vegetable without the fillers or added fats. You also need to try to train yourself to try different fruits so that you can develop a taste for them. Nectarines would be a good choice to start because they are a cross between an apple and a peach. Good Luck in your efforts.

I have found through using the flat belly diet guidelines that it is a matter of not just starting a diet, it is a matter of making lifestyle changes. I used to be a person who skipped breakfast and ate a large meal around two with unhealthy snacks throughout the day. Depending on my schedule, I sometimes would eat another meal at 8 or 9 as well. Now I keep on hand quick breakfast items and follow the diet's guidelines for eating and snacking & it is helping me avoid the fast food appeal meals and eat the good meals that are better for me.

If you took all of the so-called 'food' off of the shelves that was't around in 1940, there would be nothing left. I've simply told myself that "Eww processed foods are gross." and by doing that, it really becomes true. If we eat naturally, and try our best to cut out anything in a box, bottle or bag, (I'm not a 'food-Nazi' just TRY it!) we would all benefit. The waste America consumes has no food value what-so-ever, it's all chemicals and scientifically modified by-products of anything reselmbling food. If you were to read the ingredients panel on most anything in stores today, it almost always has SOMETHING processed. Now, if there were labels on fruit with the ingredients, what do you think they would say? :)

"Sunlight, Water"

What a change from the mile-long list on most of what we eat!

I have learned to make the right choices for food by listening to my body. The fast food made me sluggish and the grease makes my stomach ache. The saltiness of the foods made my blood pressure rise and the sodas made my kidneys ache. Making my lunch at night, no matter how tired I am, helps me save money and eat healthy. I also prepare my dinner for the next day by taking my fish and thawing it in the fridge.

My mantra is "My long term rewards are much sweeter than my short term satisfaction." I have it posted on the mirror in my bedroom where I can see it every day. When I am tempted by something yummy, I say it to myself and walk away. It gets easier.

My biggest thing is that I eat because food is around me... I'm an external eater. So I have a saying that keeps me in line.."There's a big difference between 'NEED' and 'WANT'". So I ask myself, "Do I need t, or do I want it?" Most of the time I just really want it...so I walk away from the food.

I am a 55 year old Nana or Nanny, depending on which darling is addressing me. In Sept 2008 I wasn't feeling well, lots of reflux, and developed thrush in my mouth. I had constriction in my throat when I swallowed. Made an appt in Oct and saw the Dr in November. Found I had low thyroid, blood pressure was up, treated for thrush and had glucose testing. Now the Dr says that I am a pre-diabetic. After learning this and a few weeks of depression, I decided to take charge. I was overweight and knew I needed exercise. I have a sit-down job all day. I leave the house at 7:30 a.m. and get home after 6:00 usually. My husband gave me an eliptical machine for Christmas and I have lost 17 lbs since December. My goal is another 20 lbs. I started following the diabetic diet and no longer have reflux. I realize that exercise is not an option, but is mandatory if I want to be healthy. I had put off exercising because of pain in my foot under my heel, but do it anyway. I have 6 grandchildren, all girls, all under the age of 5. I want to be there for them, and that is my motivation. My darling little ones. I am blessed they all live in the same town. I get to regularly see them. I am also blessed to understand my health issues so that I can do something about it before it is to late.

I have gotten my six year old in on my health eating kick. It is a lot easier to pass up the Big Mac when he says, "Mommy, that is NOT a healthy choice!"

I am an Occupational Health Nurse and my boss asked me to come up with a weight loss program for our company. What a challenge---I had to find something that worked for me and for the 2500 employees in the USA. We did it, and our company employees who have joined the plan have over over 2500 pounds since January 5th! I worked on this last fall and put it together in October. So on Nov. 1st I started it myself and lost 13.5 pounds before the kick off date Jan 5. Since then, I have lost another 11.5 pounds--25 all together. We are using the Harvard Public Health Eating Plan as a guide. What changed me more than anything was not only the accountability to my employees, but I read a book that changed my attitude about exercise. It is called Younger Next Year. It is funny and a good read--but more important--after I read it---I GET IT! I have know exercise is good for you, etc but to get it down on the inside enough to motivate you to action is another thing. This book did it and I am walking 4 miles a day now! Wow--I can't believe I just said that! Believe me---I am 54 years old and have fought this weight battle since age 20. I am on the road to recovery!

I have made up my mind to eat healthy if I crave MacDonalds french fries I come up with a healthy alternative. Remember the satification you get from eating those fries is only temporary to your tastebuds but determential to your health. I have lsot 20.4 pounds since joining in September but I did not get serious until January 5, 2009 when I heard Dr. Ian on a radio program . I feel so good I have a long ways to go but I will suceed. So to all of you in the struggle do not give up if you mess up dont wait until Monday to start again start at your next meal.

I didn't realize how unhealthy my diet was until I received colon hydrotherapy. After the session I decided to become committed to my overall health and well-being. My motto is EAT to LIVE, that's what I try to do daily, because it makes me feel happy and in control of my life.

It's been a while since I participated with the 50 million pound challenge. When I started with the program, I lost 4 pounds and was feeling motivated that I was on to a good weight loss start. Then the holidays came. I gained the 4 pounds back and an additional 4 pounds. I never stopped exercising, so I chunked it off as muscle, but the 4 pounds were not leaving. I have since bought Dr. Ian's book The 4 Day Diet and have lost those 8 pounds. I am feeling very very excited and light. I encourage all who read this comment to go out and buy his book. It was the best 25 dollars that I have spent in a long time.

I've decided to quit drinking soda on January 1st, 2008...so I haven't had a soda in over a year! Some foods I think are better to just completely quit instead of consuming in moderation. This January 1st, I decided to quit French Fries and Fried Chicken....so far I haven't had either in 41 days. To me this is a big deal because I love French Fries and Chicken nuggets...A regular meal for me at McDonald's. I have noticed that my desire for this food has decreased...I'm just trying to cut out foods that have no health benefits at all! I know that there are plenty of foods out there that don't have much nutritional value that I still eat...but I'm fighting little battles so I can win the war!

First of all, you have to remember why you want to lose weight. Better health should be the most important reason not just for a better lookin' body. At one point, i couldn't help but order those fries with a double cheeseburger to go along with it. But when you are really DETERMINED to lose weight, skipping those fries will become second nature. I keep reminding myself about how good ill be treating my heart and my whole body by choosing healthier items like a grilled-chicken salad vs. fried chicken or a whopper. I don't think it's a terrible idea to eat junk food but only once in a while, not every other day. You have to RETRAIN your THINKING and your ATTITUDE about food and realize what your choice of foods could do to you in the long run.

Well I think I am off to a good start, 14 days into my "new me" life:) I personally have turned to lean cusine meals for my pizza,lasagna ect. I know if i make it myself I will have a hard time not eating ALL the lasagna,pizza ect. It is just me so, I had to find a way to just have a small portion, and so far so good:)

I am really excited about how much better I am feeling, I've lost 6 pounds,just reading the comments by other participants has motivated me to continue to fight on. The water intake has helped me tremendously.

My name is Myra,

What makes me go for the salad or the grill chick is first my family health. Yes I am young (27), however I have cousins that I was in high school with that have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. When you have family your age almost on there death bed it will make you think twice.

My second reason is. I know it is better for me. I haven’t total put the French fies out of my diet because it is my favorite food. But I have limited them greatly. Even before joining the 50millionpound club I was limiting myself to fries once a week. Now I have gotten down to 2 twice a month and I don’t even eat them all.

Third I love salads. There are so many different ways you can make them and so much you can put in them. My favorite is using baby spinach, tomatoes, cucumbers, banana peppers, carrots, pineapple chucks or mandarin oranges, sunflower seeds, and raisins. My favorite salad dressing is the kens light Vidalia onion or the light sun dried tomato vinaigrette. Usually I eat it as is, every now and then I will add some grill chicken or some sliced turkey breast. If you don’t want to make one McDonalds Grilled Asian salad is good. 

Overall is see French fries as death now. Yes I still do eat them but in moderation. Usually when I do eat them I do a hard workout that day and the next day. I don’t know if it works but in my mind I feel like to hard workouts back to back means I did not eat them. But it does take will power. I am glad society had implement substitutes for there value meals so now I have the choice to get a salad or fruit. I hope others take advantage of this too.

Change happens instantly when what you are doing is no longer acceptable. I am almost 55 yrs. old and have always left my car unlocked, the windows half down, unless I was at the store or in a bad neighborhood. I have always lived this way, in this neighborhood and it is safe to do this, so I did. I never listened when I would hear warnings of how dangerous this choice is.

I was parked outside a client's house, close to where I live, for about 2 hours.I clean houses for a living. I went out to get in the car and I reached for my bank bag between my seats, where I keep my checks. It was gone. Then I realized that that it had been full of cash since I had been to the bank that morning.
My helper and I began looking around to see if I had misplaced it and found several other things missing. Important items! My appointment book with garage codes to all my clients was gone also. I changed overnight. Never again will I live as I did before that day. I was horrified that I had put my clients in harm's way and spent the next 2 hours notifying each one to change their codes. I didn't even think about the money I lost in the beginning, I was grateful they didn't take my car! The keys were in the floor, under the seat! NOW, months later I go back to this FEELING and I realize that I have that same feeling again NOW.

I am giving up white sugar and white flour for all time, beginning yesterday. It just "hit" me that I don't want to lose my body before I am finished with it. I don't want to lose my health, my mobility or the rest of my self esteem...just because I take my body for granted and expect it to always perform and be there for me when I need it. I NOW KNOW how quickly it can just vanish! I am conscious and successful in every other area of my life. I consider myself to live in integrity and to tell the Truth. So when we Know better, we do better. Living in denial is no longer an option. I will not wait until I get a death sentence to change. I can do it NOW.

I have yet to lose any weight maybe because of my cycle. I refuse to stop and I know that the weight will come off. I have not had a soda since Jan 15th way to go Belinda!!!!!!

whenever I feel tempted I try to picture in my mind what I looked like and how I felt when I was at my smallest weight.if that doesn't work and I am craving something like chocolate I try to eat a sugar free or lowfat version and eat it in moderation

The biggest wake up call to me was when I went to the grocery store to buy apples. They were $5.11 for a 5 pound bag. Immediately it dawned on me that I used to spend the same or more amount on fast or should I say FAT food. Since then the smell of fast food makes me lose my appetite. Also, I have more energy since I stopped eating fast food and other things and started eating a balanced diet. Also, there is a saying I came up with and I have stuck to it since this year and it is "I would rather pay for cabbage than pay for a CABG (pronounced Cabbage)-Acronym for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft which is open heart surgery for heart disease. So when I see fast food places I am just thinking eating here will cost me hundreds of thousands of dollars later when I have to have a CABG. I can reduce my risk by buying healthy food which is near the cabbage and cheaper and will be better for my health. So I can spend my money to eat better or spend A LOT more money later to rehabilitate. As far as the person who said they wanted candy after every meal, purchase sugar free candy. With sugar free candy you will have to watch how much you eat otherwise you will be in the bathroom.

I try not to go inside of McDonlds, instead I take my children to the drive thru. This is less tempting to me. I might have one of my children fries but that is it. The thing that is hard for me is junk food I have a sweet tooth especially when it is my time of the month. I was doing so good until my birthday on the 26 of Jan. My girlfriend made me a cake and I almost ate the whole thing. I was PMSing and I felt like it was my birthday and I should be able to eat as much cake as I wanted. Today was mot as bad I went to work out after work, but I still had some turtle candy. Tomorrow I'm planning on going back to the gym and not eating any junk foof unless it is some rice cake snacks w/chocolate on them.
I am proud of myself because I have not fried and foods since 12/18/2009. My husband and I have been baking, grilling boiling and stir-frying everything we also make sure we have a veggie and a fruit with every meal or after our meals for a snack.

Thanks Samantha

I will try your suggestion of preparing the salad first. This is funny that you gave me this suggestion. My youngest sister's name is Samantha also - how weird :)

I WANT CANDY, AFTER EVERY MEAL? WHAT CAN I DO TO REPLACE THE NEED FOR CANDY?

Hello,

The way I overcome my urges is by asking myself "Why?" In my opinion, it's simply mind over matter; when I stop to actually think about it, I make better decisions because I have never been able to give myself a valid reason for wanting the food that's not good for me. However, when I ask myself Why I should pick the salad instead of the fries, I have a laundry list of reasons why I should. I used to think that if I have a salad instead of a burger I wouldn't feel full. Actually, I feel full, but it's a different kind of full...it's a fullness that I've satisfied my hunger as opposed to so full that I just want to take a nap.

Hi my name is Angie,

It is very hard to resist temptation when it comes to food. First I like to pray, "resist the devil and he will flee". Secondly, hear at my job their is always food, and cakes people bring in so I have begun to buy snacks to keep in my cubbard, and when they bring the high fat items I have an alternative snack. My snacks include; special K crakers (17 for 90 cal.), triscuts, fruit and lots of water. I must say this is a new challenge for me,but with the Lord leading the way I can make it.

I need to lose weight to live longer and watch my son grow. I can start on my own but I always quit. It is hard for me to stay motivated and I desperately need to. My wife and I are going to start together and we will achieve our goal. I just need some healthy eating tips so I'm open to suggestions.

For myself, I play a mind game whenever I smell frying foods. I tell myself those types of food are nasty and gross. It usually works...but not all the time tee hee!

I love fried fish and chicken and have learned to oven fry both. If I do buy fried chicken, I put it in a hot oven for about 10 to 15mins. You'd be surprised how much extra oil comes out of it. Then I only allow myself a small portion of the skin. I know, I know, any skin is bad, but it a small treat I allow myself every once in a blue moon.

Thank goodness I do love vegetables so Dr Ian's diet is not that hard for me to follow. My only problem is trying to find enough food to bring to work. I work ten hours days so I eat breakfast, lunch and a couple of snacks while at work. I only have time for dinner once I get home.

As I type, there is a platter of cookies calling me from the counter outside my office. I WILL NOT GIVE INTO TEMPTATION. Leave me alone oatmeal cookie!

What works for me is following the eating habits of my skinny co-workers. If 110 lbs "Betty-Sue" can resist the cookie platter so can I! When they snack on carrots, edemame and fruit, so will I. At our office, 11:00 am is carrot time! (Now if I could only get them to get rid of 3:00pm chocolate time!)

My treadmill readings tell how many calories I've burned during my workout. Do you know how long you have to stay on the treadmill if you eat a whole 99 cent bag of chips @ 450 calories?! WhenI think of it in terms of a harder workout, it really helps me resist.

Zoraida, I usually make a salad to go with dinner. I make the salad first, then eat it with my hands (I know, but you're at home..who cares), in the kitchen while I'm cooking. Clears your palate, takes care of the starvation, adds to the 5-a-day, and helps me to not overeat at dinner controls the mindless tasting.
If that doesn't work, try gum or sparking water- the bubbles will make you feel full without all the calories. Finally my husband is skinny, so I make him do the testing or he can season to his liking later. :0)

FYI,
Rewarding kids with McDonalds is teaching them to reward good behavior with food. Some better suggestions; A trip to the local farmer's market, the library, a trip to the park where the family plays tag...a great way for you to sqeeze in some fitness as well...just a thought.

For me, the answer to fighting temptation is finding alternatives.. I am a snack junkie- chips, popcorn, candy, dry cereal- anything that is quick and that keeps me busy.. I found the Quaker mini rice cakes taste just like many of my favorite chips and snacks. I replaced crunchy cheetos with the cheese flavored Quaker treat, Caramel popcorn with the Caramel flavored treat.. These replacements (still needing to the regulated) are a better alternative than the regular snacks I used to eat.. Its been working so far..

I started my challenge on Jan 24,2009 at 231lbs and has committed myself to eating right and working out. Im concerned about having loose skin when I do finish this plan what can I do to make sure this doesnt happen.

1) What I do is keep fresh bottled water on the floor of the passage side of my car. When I get in I open one and drink it during my drive home. - I am not as hungry when I get home.

2) Monday mornings I take a bag of mixed fruit to work and leave them in a bowl on desk/bookshelf to eat during the week. - Keeps my office smelling great and keeps me out of the candy jars in other offices.

3) If I eat out anywhere I only order water to drink. When I eat the lunch I bring from home I allow myself to drink juice, milk, tea, etc. - This help me to maintain portion control and drink my necessary water. :)

However, I am still dealing with my temptations that come during my preparation of family meals. - I am a taster when cooking. (So if anyone has any suggestions for this, be appreciated.)

I learned about Dr. Ian by watching Celebrity Fit Club. I was ecstatic to learn about the Challenge! Finally someone was taking a proactive approach to raise awareness around preventable diseases. Education regarding diseases such as hypertension, heart disease and diabetes is long overdue in our communities. As a result of watching Celebrity Fit Club I found out about Dr. Ian’s Fat Smash Plan. The thing that attracted me to The Fat Smash Plan was the ability to transition this type of plan into a lifestyle. Over the years I have discovered that many of the diets currently out on the market yield quick results that do not last. My goal was to lose 40 lbs. but more importantly to implement and maintain a lifestyle which includes healthy eating and daily physical activity. Being 38, I wanted to remove the potential to develop any diseases that could be a direct result of excessive weight (and age). I implemented the Fat Smash Plan and have now reached my goal weight. I continue to exercise each day including cardiovascular and resistance training. Surprising, the small things really do make a difference, such as parking further away from the Mall entrance instead of driving around for 10 minutes looking for a closer space. Now I actually return the grocery cart to the cart return instead of leaving it in between the vehicles. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator has proven wonders for my lung capacity. In the past I have been on diets that eliminated complete food groups only to regain the weight. I now incorporate all food groups but in smaller portions. I stick to fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. I enjoy the occasional treat but limit the portion size. If I want a special treat I will have it when I go out for dinner instead of buying it to have at home where the tendency to overeat exists. In addition, by making yourself accountable to your friends and family you are more likely to stay on your plan instead of cheating. I have developed a team at work where we “check” one another if we see the other “back sliding”. Instead of smoking breaks we take “walking breaks” helping our lungs instead of hurting them. Our team collectively has lost over 400 lbs. We rewarded ourselves with new clothes and shoes! Not food! The most important thing to remember is to choose a plan that you can maintain as a lifestyle, which the Fat Smash allows you to do! It took me a long time to “accept” that the quick fix diets are just that….quick!.. but “slow and steady” does win the race! I look great and feel even better! Kudos to Dr. Ian and the 50 million lb Challenge! Keep up the good work!

My plan is to avoid being hungry. I pack my meals to take with me to work and everywhere else. I eat when I'm scheduled to eat. It is harder to resist the temptation of unhealthy when you are hungry. It is easy for me to fight the temptation when I'm not hungry, I recognize that my greedy gene is trying to take over. Just like MeMe, I look at food like exercise. If I am willing to increase my exercise to eat of the plan then I eat it. If I'm not willing to work out longer or harder, then I don't eat it. Good luck everyone!

Stay Motivated!
Kyrston

What I'm hearing from everyone is there's no secret. It's all about making the DECISION to not give in to temptation. I really identify with Dija's post because I am starving when I come home from work, but I noticed the other day after work when I was determined to set up my new treadmill first, I hadn't eaten and it was after 7 o'clock. I couldn't believe I wasn't starving. That experience taught me taht I can manage the feeling of being hungry. I will just eat an apple or something and try to occupy myself with doing something else.

A couple of tips that have helped me... #1 surround yourself with friends/co-workers/family members who practice healthy eating habits and ask them what they cook for their meals. #2 Literally train your palate to accept and eventually crave healthier foods. #3 experiment with new foods at the supermarket, and new types of seasonings, like pepper & garlic.

I WORK AT McDONALD'S! And as a manager, I eat for free. It can be challenging at times. Thereore, I pack myself a lunch ahead of time. But most of all, I ask myself questions like: "Is this chocolate chip cookie (fresh out of the oven by the way) worth my happiness?" We all know what the answer is! And its usually NO. It also helps to set goals and offer yourself an reward as you reach them. If you do decide to "splurge", learn from it. I always think of how I felt after I've eaten something I wasn't supposed to. Nine times out o ten, I don't ever want to feel that GUILT again! And that is my motivation.

It is so hard to resist the temptation, but you've always got to look at the bigger picture...Imagine you being on the beach in the bikini or in your trunks flaunting your flat stomach..When I've already ate and I've still got the munchies, I like to eat crushed up ice...Your making yourself feel full but without the guilt :)

I have a hard time finding a way to have a reasonable eating plan because I can not eat any raw vegetables at all. Every diet or weightloss program says to have a healthy sald or when you are hungry to eat carrots or other vegetables. I can't at all. So how can I lose weight if these things can not be done by me. i am allergic to any raw vegetable and the only fruit I like are apples? I really need help.

From a very picky eater.

Well tomorrow, Monday Jan 26th will be my first day on the challenge. I think the hardest part for me is not overeating when I come home from work. So, I think I'll have to change my strategy of what I do in the evenings. I'm going to bypass the kitchen and head upstairs to change my clothes and take a minute to think about what I'm going to do next. I'm praying that this will make me THINK before I EAT! Thanks for the fellow support!

When the ladies at work eat at their desk and I smell the McDonald's fries (I love them) I tell myself that it smells like fat and I'm tired of being fat. It's hard to pass up when your really hungry and your head is saying how good that would taste, but then I tell myself that if I eat a salad with some chicken and I'm still craving the fries then I can have a small order. Once I'm done with the salad, I usually don't want the fries anymore. I'm satisfied and it just doesn't sound as good.

I take one look in the mirror and I see my progress. I then look at the monster(fatty foods) The poof im out of there just as quick as I came in.

Well, my lifestyle consisted of eating out 90% of the time. This year I had to make the committment to stop. Well, after the first week I did good but needed something to eat because I was feeling ill. After I ate the McDonalds and it tasted bad, I was like enough. I am learning to cook things for myself and are making adjustments here and there overall. I know for someone like me its not going to happen overnight but little steps until I get there.

My biggest thing is that I eat because food is around me... I'm an external eater. So I have a saying that keeps me in line.."There's a big difference between 'NEED' and 'WANT'". So I ask myself, "Do I need t, or do I want it?" Most of the time I just really want it...so I walk away from the food.

I now think of food, as WORK IN THE GYM. A small fry will take me almost an hour of sweat, on the treadmill.

When I was told that 80-90% of losing weight is your DIET, I was blown away. I am probably one of the few people, that truly enjoys working out. Even on the days that I'm not feeling it, once I get in the gym - I'm GUNG_HO!

I've lost 30 pounds in six months. I detoxed in July of '08; today I'm doing another one. I'm at a plateau -- yes, I know it's because I've been CHEATING a bit. But I want to trim down another 20 pounds (I'll be 50 in May).

Hubby is very happy where I'm at right now; but I want to lose at least 10 more, to show more definition - I have the muscle, just need to lose more fat around it. The extra 10 is my cushion ... in case I gain a few back!

HY. I HAVE JOINED THE WEIGHT LOST PROGRAM BUT I DON'T FEEL HEALTH BECAUSE I HAVE LUPUS AND I HAVE PROBLEMS KEEPING MY BLOOD FROM CLOTTING AND I TAKE COUMIDEN 8MG DAILY AND MY DR. WANT ME TO STAY AWAY FROM ALL FREEN VEGG'S IS THIS REALLY HEALTHY FOR ME, EVERY GREEN VEG YOU CAN IMAGINE I EAT FOR THE LAST 42YRS NO VITAMIN K IN MY SYSTEM AT ALL MY DR. SAID IF I EAT FOODS WITH VIT K IT MAKES IT HARDER FOR HER TO KEEP ME BETWEEN A 2-3 FOR MY PROTINES, CORN, POTATOES, TOMATOES,CARROTS, MY SKIN FEEL THINNER, PLEASE HELP ME I HAVE EXPRESSED THIS TO MY DR. AND SHE SAID YOU HAVE HAD BLOOD CLOTS IN YOUR LUNGS SHERRY YOU CAN DIE IF THE BURST, BUT WHAT OTHER SUGGESTION YOU THINK I COULD BRING TO MY DR. HELP!!!!!!! PLEASE.

Well, I have small children and as any child... they LOVE McDonald's, and based on their behavior, they get the golden arches for supper. That is a challenge because they really are great kids... Furthermore, in today's society (I am pretty sure others can attest to this)that our entire family schedule is busy... school, work, activities, etc. Often times cooking dinner is not an option... but I have been sticking to my meal plans... Well, here is my secret... Just say no!!! Get a salad, Keep a bottle of water with you... Pre-make your lunches...but most importantly... make a "eat date".

I have discovered that after a few weeks of dieting and changing my eating habits, that although my eyes say hmmmm, my body says no way. It may just be a mechanism in my head, but the only greasy thing I want near me may be the oil in my daughters hair!!! Will power! But just as anything, you must not be hard on yourself. My family has a eat out night... we all load up the car and head to our favorite restaraunt for a family dinner. The key here is to get something you DESERVE... don't pig out, but ensure that is something you want...also you must quit when your body says to. You will soon find that when you go to these family outings that you will WANT the healthier items on the menu... Your weight loss progress alone will motivate you to do what is right...

My key is to: Once a month treat yourself and soon you will see the fruit of your labor...Literally!

I NO LONGER GO TO MC DONALDS, BURGER KINGS, ETC.....TOO TEMPTING.

It is set back when I eat the fried and I know it will be that much longer for me to exercise off those calories. I want to continue moving forward and advancing to my next goal without the extra work.

Don't just look at the choices as what you should be eating, but as "Which one of these could end up killing me?". That will show the difference between necessity and luxury. Living is both. I don't think anyone after being told they developed a medical problem due to weight/bad eating habits thought "Dang! I should have ate more french fries!"...they probably were thinking "I wish I had gotten that grilled chicken salad!"

After watching "Super Size ME", I became appalled at the lunches the schools were serving. The lady stated that they teach kids to "make the right choices in life" and when Mr. Spurlock stated that they were still offering the unhealthy choices, so "aren't we setting them up" to fail and make the bad choice? That struck home. We teach kids to say no to drugs because it is a bad choice and there are strict laws prohibiting drugs on campus...but yet we also teach that junk food is a bad choice, however they offer chips and candy bars at lunch time! Also, the host pointed out that although the school doesn't sell soda, the Country Time Lemonade still had just as much sugar as Coke!

How can your mind NOT be completely changed!?

Well about 3 years ago my family and I stopped eating fast food all together, especially McDonalds. We liked to got here often. After we began taking a product called First Fitness and saw that video where that man ate only McDonalds food for a month and the results of that, we were astonished. In the last 1 year I can say that we have probably been maybe 5 times after church,we went to Wendys or Burger King and Farm Fresh chicken. It took a lot for us to go there but believe me it is NOT a common practice in out house especially now doing to 50 million pound challenge. We treat ourselves once in a while but no where near what we used too.

I don't have much of a problem with this but don't recomend anyone else deal with it the way I have. I convenced myself many years ago that I was fat and therefore not humgry. Now I don't get hungry just weak. I often forget to eat and can't loose weight. My sugestion would be to see the fries as fat on your body and healthy food as you thin and beautifull.

I tell myself that I don't need it anymore. There is a healthy snack I can eat when I get home. The other week my friend and I and our children were on an outting and my friend and my son were hungry, so I pulled into McDonalds and I ordered their food and nothing for myself (and believe me, I was hungry). My son asked why I didn't get anything and I told him that I could wait and eat something better at home. It was hard, but I was proud of myself. I didn't give in to temptation. I've learned to be strict on what I eat, cause if I don't I'll fall right back into the gutter