Sharing something that was/is really valuable for me- “Love Yourself Right Now”

Hi everybody,

I’m relatively new here but I am really glad to read and learn from so many of your weight loss journeys. This group is amazing and has taught me so much already.

One thing that I learned from practicing Buddhism and meditation is being present. I think it translates and helps with everything.

As someone who has struggled with weight loss my entire life (I’m 38) and who just recently learned how to live healthy for myself… I really think being present was the biggest game changer for me. I always had weight loss goals. I knew once I got to that goal I would be happy. But not until I reached the end of the rainbow.

I would hit my goals. It would make me happy for a bit. But then I would revert back to my “normal” way of eating/drinking. Because when I was losing weight, when I was on my journey, I was making a SACRIFICE in order to reach happiness, confidence and my goal weight.

But once I realized I could be happy right now, when I was overweight. When I realized I am a great person (even when I stared at the mirror and definitely had negative thoughts pop up) —- I would tell myself that I was great now. I was already right where I was supposed to be. And because I love myself just the way I am…. I am going to invest in this body and mind that I love. I am going to eat healthy and workout not for a goal weight, but because I love myself right now.

The first month or so may be shaky. But changing the mind frame to “I love myself and I’m investing in myself. I’m not waiting for weight to change to be happy- I’m happy now” helped the whole journey feel easy and fun, and helped the weight stay off. This process was much easier than- “sacrificing until I hit my goal where then and only then I’ll be happy with myself”

Love yourself now. Make any changes you would like. But do it because you love yourself, not in order to love yourself.

Much love everybody,

Cory

submitted by /u/CoryBleeker
[link] [comments]

from loseit - Lose the Fat https://ift.tt/2ZH4HHO

4 months ago I lost my appetite and everyday since I've been significantly under-eating

Disclaimer: This post is NOT going to be about dieting or healthy weight loss strategies, I just need help with a situation I'm having and don't know where to go. Trigger warning regarding eating disorders or things that are similar.

The initial loss of my appetite was caused by depression, but I don't believe it to be the reason for why it hasn't returned. Having no desire to eat often makes me forget about needing to. Usually I procrastinate eating until my body motivates me, but if I plan to be mobile I will in advance eat what I would've normally had later in the day. I don't count calories but I know I don't consume anywhere near the recommended daily amount. I don't eat meals, only servings of snack foods (like a couple of nature valley bars or a yogurt) because they are easy/quick. I think I still experience the common signs of hunger but became accustom to them. In general I feel fine, or maybe I'm just indifferent towards the things I experience as a result of under-eating (weakness, lightheaded, physical exhaustion, etc...). After going too long without responding to my body's requests for food, it'll motivate me to eat by inducing sudden nausea that causes involuntary gaging/dry heaving. It's pretty brief and I lay down for a couple minutes to make it subside before I finally eat something.

I was able to figure out that in these 4 months I've lost 57lbs. Before I was 213lbs and last week I weighed 156lbs (I'm around 5ft9/5ft10). It surprised me when I did the math and found out how much weight I had lost. Especially because I haven't noticed a big change in my appearance (just a little less belly fat) and no one else mentioned anything about how I look. I had medical labs done (for an unrelated reason) in early September and know from the results that there is nothing physically wrong or abnormal that could be causing this. Based on the information I've read from reputable and up to date health resources, I'm not sure if I have an eating disorder because my experience didn't line up with any of the different forms that were listed. I don't really know what to do about this, or if I need help and what kind, or where to start. Thanks for taking the time to read.

submitted by /u/The-Pink-Panther
[link] [comments]

from loseit - Lose the Fat https://ift.tt/3Cw3mBY

My mom keeps buying junk food

I’m only 15 and yet I weigh 228lbs. I’m sick of being so unhealthy and I want to be able to love myself so I’m trying to lose weight but it’s really hard when my mom makes a freaking thanksgiving feast every night. I’ve tried talking to her and have been able to convince her to start making small changes such as buying lite milk instead of full cream milk and low fat Greek yogurt, but that’s about it. And whenever I mention I’m trying to lose weight she buys MORE junk food.

For example, last week I told her about my 6lbs. weight loss and how I’d like her to stop buying so much junk food so I could keep losing more. The next day she went to the store and bought me a 2 litre tub of ice cream and one for herself. I didn’t say anything about it to her because I didn’t want her to think I’m ungrateful. I ended up eating it because it’s so hard to resist seeing my favorite flavor of ice cream just waiting for me. I know it’s not her fault that I ate it and she didn’t force me to, but I just felt guilty.

I don’t know what to do. I’ve been working out every day at least but I know that weight loss is like 70% diet and I’m not going to make any more progress with my current diet. I’m sick of being the “fat kid” at school which is something my mom just doesn’t seem to understand.

submitted by /u/SpeedWagonChann
[link] [comments]

from loseit - Lose the Fat https://ift.tt/3mvDZe8

Is 1900 cal/day a lot?

I’m a 22 y/o 5’7” 165lbs FtM and im just a little confused abt calorie intake. I’m trying to lose just a little weight and try to gain some healthy habits in the long run. I’m pretty sedentary but make an effort to jog about 5km/day 5 days/week.

Now that background is kinda outta the way my question really is just like the title. Every calculator/app i use says 1800-1900 cal/day for losing about 1lbs a week while lightly active. Which is fine! I’ll gladly take some extra wiggle room because my goal is really build healthier habits and hoping a little weight loss comes with it- I’m just concerned its overestimating because 1900 a day seems like So Much food!

submitted by /u/ficksov
[link] [comments]

from loseit - Lose the Fat https://ift.tt/3EpYgHU

What to expect in a calorie deficit

I am a 28 year old 5’7 male weighing approximately 250lbs.

I have been participating in a high volume low calorie diet consuming around 1600-2100 calories for the last week and a half. I have been generally pleased with my results losing around 9 pounds although I suspect a good deal of that is water weight. This brings me to my first question. What should I expect in terms of weight loss? I come from a background in wrestling so I’m very familiar with weight loss however it was done in a very unhealthy way and would often have large fluctuations in the weight. The calculators I’m using all say around 2lbs per week I guess I was just curious how accurate those are cause I know everybody is different.

submitted by /u/atalkinglobster
[link] [comments]

from loseit - Lose the Fat https://ift.tt/3bnY2EL

20 Easy and Healthy Homemade Halloween Candy Recipes

With Halloween coming up, the influx of candy in the grocery store aisles may mean temptation is lurking around every corner. While those sugary sweets might feel frighteningly detrimental to your healthy diet, you can whip up some equally satisfying but guilt-free homemade Halloween candy at home in little to no time at all!

Swapping your Halloween candy with these healthier alternatives will make the Halloween season much less spooky—at least when it comes to your health.

1. 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Chocolate Candy Bites >

When it comes to simple Halloween candy, it doesn’t get much easier than four ingredients! These candy bites are made with corn flakes, peanut butter, brown rice syrup and chocolate chips. With the beloved combination of peanut butter and chocolate—plus just a bit of crunch—these bites have all the indulgence of a candy bar without the guilt. Get the full recipe here! >

2. Halloween Peppermint Gems >

There’s something about the classic combination of peppermint and chocolate that makes it a favorite Halloween treat for many. This simple recipe makes small “gem-sized” candy bites that have a hint of coconut, too. They’ll satisfy your sweet tooth while still clocking in under 100 calories per serving. Get the full recipe here! >

3. 4-Ingredient Chocolate Raspberry Cups >

The combination of chocolate and raspberry has a decadence about it that really makes it feel like a gourmet treat! These chocolate raspberry cups are made using just four ingredients—frozen raspberries, chia seeds, coconut oil and chocolate chips. We also have lots of suggestions of healthy swaps to switch up the flavor and texture of these delicious treats. Get the full recipe here! >

4. Almond Butter and Sea Salt Freezer Fudge >

If you’re someone who loves the flavor combo of mixing sweet with salty, then this is a fudge recipe you’ll have to try. Fudge is one of those desserts that seems difficult to make when in reality, there’s not much more to it than mixing! In little to no time at all, you can whip up a decadent treat to enjoy. Get the full recipe here! >

5. 3-Ingredient Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups >

Chocolate peanut butter cups are perhaps one of the most beloved Halloween candies out there. But they’re also packed with sugar. Our version cuts down on the amount of sugar from the store-bought variety using just three ingredients—chocolate chips, coconut oil and peanut butter. They’ll still satisfy your sweet tooth but without completely derailing your healthy eating regimen. Get the full recipe here! >

6. Pecan Pie Freezer Fudge >

Think bite-sized pecan pies that you can whip up with a handful of simple ingredients. Simply blend the ingredients, pop in the freezer to set and enjoy! The result is that decadent fudge taste and texture that makes it so craveable—all with the delicious appeal of pecan pie. Get the full recipe here! >

7. Chocolate Pumpkin Truffle Balls >

If you love pumpkin flavored treats, then this delectable candy is sure to become a new favorite. These truffle balls have a tasty filling made from pumpkin puree, cashew butter, maple syrup, blanched almond flour and pumpkin pie spice. The filling then firms up in the fridge before being dipped in its chocolate coating and once again heads back to the refrigerator to set. The end result tastes like a mini, portable pumpkin pie smothered in chocolate. Make these for Halloween or any other fall holiday; they even make a cute gift! Top them with chopped nuts or cacao nibs for some extra crunch. Get the full recipe here! >

8. 3-Ingredient Chocolate Pecan Caramel Bites >

At under 100 calories per serving, these chocolate pecan caramel bites are a healthier way to indulge your love of chocolate. They’re the perfect combo of pecans, caramel and Nutrisystem NutriChocolaty Wafers. Plus, they are simple to make and assemble. Get the full recipe here! >

9. 3-Ingredient Salted Orange Bark Bars >

If you’ve never made chocolate bark before, it involves melting chocolate, sprinkling in desired add-ons and spreading on a sheet pan to set in the fridge. Our chocolate bark recipe is super simple using just dark chocolate, orange zest and coarse salt for a tangy “salted orange” flavor. Break off a piece to satisfy your sweet tooth without getting your healthy eating plans off track. Get the full recipe here! >

10. Grasshopper Candy Bars >

These delicious snack bars use six simple ingredients, including rice cereal, cocoa powder, peppermint extract and chocolate chips, to whip up a gooey-chewy bar that is so satisfying to bite into and enjoy. It’s a great alternative to diving into the candy bowl and overindulging on sugar. Get the full recipe here! >

11. Maple Walnut Fudge >

Here’s another delicious fall-inspired fudge recipe that’s incredibly simple to make. Just puree walnuts with coconut oil, maple syrup, maple extract and stevia (if desired), and pour into an ice cube tray to set. Besides being delicious, this fudge also packs in six filling grams of fiber and five grams of protein. That makes it a fudge you can feel good about. Get the full recipe here! >

12. No-Bake Skinny Mint Chocolate Brownie Bites >

If you love the flavor combo of mint and chocolate, then these brownie bites are your perfect indulgence! Instead of turning to the candy bowl, whip up these bite-sized brownies which have just 87 calories per serving. Avocado is the secret ingredient to making a creamy and healthy mint filling in these delectable treats. Get the full recipe here! >

13. Chocolate Peppermint Cups >

Another mint plus chocolate combo, this peppermint cup recipes will yield 10 homemade candies that clock in at just 49 calories each. They’ve got the refreshing sweetness that you desire and they’re just the right size to pop in your mouth and curb your cravings. Get the full recipe here! >

14. Pumpkin Spice Freezer Fudge >

No flavor quite summons the “fall feels” like pumpkin spice! And now you can enjoy it in a decadent fudge that is super easy to make and won’t put you in a sugar coma. Simply mix together some ingredients like almond butter and pumpkin puree, transfer to an ice cube tray and pop in the freezer to set! One piece of fudge is just 82 calories. Get the full recipe here! >

15. Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars >

As we’ve said before, it’s hard to go wrong with the powerful flavor duo of chocolate with peanut butter! And unlike traditional candy bars which can be a diet disaster, these bars are actually made from healthful ingredients like dates, peanut butter, oats and even some Vanilla Nutrisystem Shake Mix for more protein and flavor. Get the full recipe here! >

16. Candy Corn Fruit Parfait >

Instead of grabbing a handful of syrupy-sweet candy corn, this parfait will get you into the Halloween spirit but without the empty calories. While it’s technically not “candy,” the sweet flavors and creamy cottage cheese are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you full. It layers diced pineapple, orange and cottage cheese for a healthy snack with spooky spirit. Get the full recipe here! >

17. Chocolate Peanut Butter Freezer Fudge >

This creamy and decadent fudge has the fabulous flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. But it uses just peanut butter, unsweetened vanilla almond milk and some Nutrisystem NutriChocolaty Wafers, so you can indulge guilt-free. Simply mix up the three ingredients, spread in an ice cube tray and freeze to set. Get the full recipe here! >

18. Pumpkin Spice Bars >

Our Pumpkin Spice Bars are just as delicious as a store bought candy bar. They’re crispy yet chewy and filled with bursts of pumpkin spice flavor. At just 52 calories per serving, they are totally Nutrisystem-approved. Get the full recipe here! >

19. Chocolate Caramel Apples >

Apple picking season is upon us! We’ve lightened up the classic caramel apple so that you can enjoy it while you lose weight. These Chocolate Caramel Apples are super tasty and less than 100 calories. Before the chocolate and caramel hardens on the apples, we top them with crushed nuts for some extra crunch and healthy fats.  Get the full recipe here! >

20. Almond Butter Stuffed Dates >

Dates are pretty much nature’s candy. We stuff them full of creamy almond butter and sprinkle on various toppings for a wholesome homemade candy recipe that you can feel good about. Get creative with your favorite healthy toppings, including chopped almonds, shredded coconut, chocolate chips and pomegranate seeds. Get the full recipe here! >

The post 20 Easy and Healthy Homemade Halloween Candy Recipes appeared first on The Leaf.

from The Leaf https://ift.tt/3kFgXAc

6 Reasons Fall is the Best Time for Weight Loss

Don’t wait for New Year’s Day. The start of fall is the ideal time to embark on a crisp, cool journey to weight loss success.

Why? The unpredictability of summer barbecue fare is over, as are the splurges of summer vacation. It’s time to focus on yourself, your food choices and your health. We put together a list of reasons to embrace the bracing chill of fall as the start of your weight loss victory.

Here are six reasons why autumn is the best time to drop pounds:

7 Vegetables That Taste Best in Fall

Read More

1. Fall is all about routine.

The kids are back in school, which means getting back into a routine. Getting up for the bus, packing lunches, after-school activities and scheduled bedtimes.

This also makes fall a great time to create new routines and solidify new, healthy habits of your own. According to Jamesclear.com, one way to help cement these new routines is by doing something called “habit stacking,” where a new habit is paired with one you’re already doing. Doing so creates a cue to do a new, healthy task when you’re already doing a task that’s a habit.

If you already make the kids’ lunches each morning and you’re hoping to eat more non-starchy vegetables as part of a weight loss program, stack them! When you’re making the kids’ lunches, chop up one container of carrots, cucumbers or another veggie for yourself to eat later in the day. If you’re trying to drink more water and you already brush your teeth every morning, stack them! After you brush, drink an eight-ounce glass of water.

Weight loss success is all about finding routines that you can stick to. Fall is the ideal time to create and solidify those routines.

2. It’s not so blazingly hot!

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, July 2021 was the world’s hottest month ever recorded. So hot, in fact, that it was often unbearable to be outside exercising. Fall brings those mind-melting temperatures to a merciful end, meaning it’s a great time to enjoy the outdoors.

A morning walk in the newly-crisp air could help you control your appetite for the rest of the day. In a study published by the American Physiological Society, scientists found that those who did aerobic exercise had lower levels of ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates appetite. Getting in your steps at sunrise could give you this appetite-suppressing hormone advantage all day.

If you’re not a morning person, know that taking a walk doesn’t have to be at the crack of dawn. Making a habit of getting moving on weekend hikes, bike rides or just longer walks with the dog can help you feel healthier and add to your weight loss success. It’s finally cool enough outside to do so!

Autumn is also a great season to start in the gym because it isn’t as crowded as January. This will give you the space to get the weights and machines you need for your workout. Gyms often have sales and free training sessions as the leaves start to turn.

5 Sneaky Fall Weight Loss Traps & How to Beat Them

Read More

3. It’s the season of harvest.

Nutritious and fiber-rich favorites are in season, which can be great for your wallet and health. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), some of the delicious produce that is in-season during the fall includes:

• Fruit: Apples, cranberries and pears.
• Root Vegetables: Beets, carrots, sweet potatoes and radishes.
• Leafy greens: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale and Swiss chard.
• Squash: Pumpkin, butternut and acorn.
• Other Vegetables: Cabbage, cauliflower, green beans, mushrooms, peas and onions.

Get creative with your favorite autumn produce and incorporate them throughout your weight loss menu. Add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, rosemary or ginger to add some fall flavor. If you need inspiration, try our recipes for Maple Cinnamon Butternut Squash, Roasted Rosemary Beets and Carrots or Pumpkin Pie Applesauce!

4. It’s soup season!

Another reason to love the cooler temperature is heating up a bowl of hot, comforting soup. Whether it’s Nutrisystem’s fan-favorite Chicken Noodle Soup, Classic Pasta Fagioli or something homemade, warm dishes like these are perfect for fall. There are many soup recipes that are healthy and diet-friendly. It’s a versatile meal that you can make using your favorite ingredients. Have fun and experiment with different proteins, vegetables, grains and broths. Click the link below for some ideas!

16 Tasty Soup Recipes the Whole Family Will Love

Read More

5. Hearty desserts are on the menu.

Wait … what? Sure, fall is full of hearty favorites like apple pies and pumpkin spice everything. But how can hearty desserts help you lose weight?

When they’re Nutrisystem-approved, that’s how! Whether it’s Nutrisystem’s Carrot Cake Cupcake or one of these guilt-free versions of your fall favorites. > Having dessert on Nutrisystem isn’t about depriving yourself, it’s about learning how to enjoy your favorite foods (even sweets) with the right portions and ingredients. By enjoying these dishes in autumn, you’ll have tools and smart strategies to tackle your cravings without packing on pounds when all the holidays roll around.

6. New Year’s resolutions can be WAY more fun.

Since you’ll already be on a diet plan, you’ll be ready for the high-calorie temptations during the holiday season and celebrating weight loss success. You won’t have to resolve to “lose weight” when New Year’s Day rolls around. Instead, you’ll be able to make resolutions about what you’ll do now that you’re already closer to your goals.  Create resolutions like going on a vacation or road trip, rocking a killer new dress or fitness goals like running a half-marathon. This is a great time to plan new experiences and create memories. Make your New Year’s resolutions more fun by resolving to lose weight starting now!

8 Simple Swaps for a Healthier Fall

Read More

The post 6 Reasons Fall is the Best Time for Weight Loss appeared first on The Leaf.

from The Leaf https://ift.tt/2ngbp3V