Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Can I still lose weight while taking creatine?

I’ve been on my weight loss journey now for about 4 months, but haven’t started to actually take it seriously until 2 months ago. I’ve lost 15 lbs so far (I am a slow but steady loser). I am nowhere near my goal weight- I plan to lose 45 more pounds. In the past, my weight has fluctuated a lot from going on different fad diets. My doctor wants me to incorporate more weight training into my routine. Right now I’m doing weights 4-5x a week and cardio 2-3 times. Now that I’ve begun to lose some weight again, I’m wanting to introduce creatine in my regimen to help build my muscle more. I am wondering if the boost creatine gives will also contribute to weight loss as well? I’ve done research on it and I am aware that creatine does make you retain water so bloating is really common for those who take it. Also, it will cause me to gain muscle mass. And muscle is more dense than fat. Right now, I am only taking protein powder for after my workouts. Has anyone had experience on this before?

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Losing weight has been so tough.

For context, I go to the gym almost daily, I'd say on average 5/7 days, staying for at least 40 minutes. I do a lot of strength training and cardio. I track all my meals, end up with a 3-400 calorie deficit daily, I cut out beer. I'm seeing muscle gains but no loss of belly fat or weight going down.

I'm just here to ask what you all eat.
How do you find proper meals for weight loss?

I'll be honest I eat a bunch of chipotle at work, I'm trying to get better with meal prepping but its just hard.

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I lost 74lbs, but i worry about my body even more.

Howdie,

When i started my weight loss journey, i was a whopping 150kg (330 lbs) and 1 year something later, i weigh 116kg (255 lbs). I am incredibly proud of this, but i know my journey has only begun.

Now here are the things i worry about.

Abdominal fat, and the biggest issue (that really mentally fucks me up sometimes) is the size of my penis.

While a weight loss of 34kg (74 lbs) sounds a lot on paper, in reality, it doesn't actually look like i lost that much weight, and it's really crushing. Besides my mom, i barely get compliments on my weight loss. But this isn't (too) big of an issue, because i know what i've accomplished, so i don't have to rely on other people's compliments.

The biggest issue i have, is penis size. I, for obvious reasons, can't talk about this matter in real life, so i created a Reddit account in hopes of receiving information surrounding this matter to ease my anxiety, and i'm hoping that men who were (or are) in my situation can help. Every few months, the thought of my penis size spirals me into a terrible mentality, and i start doubting myself. Now, i'm not saying that i start binge eating or something, i actually have never cheated on my diet due to bad thoughts or anything, this is more like depressing kind of thought, one that makes me think about my future.

I will go into detail.

At my highest weight, my penis size was 7 cm. Currently, my penis size is just above 10cm (3.9").

I'm scared that even if i do lose weight, my penis size won't increase, and that thought is just super depressing, i lost 74lbs and only gained 1.1".

I read up on something called bone pressed measuring and did that, but i can't seem to do it properly because it just hurts and it doesn't to deeper than 12cm.

Today (unfortunately) is just one of those days. Losing sleep about this topic, questioning myself.

Is there someone here that went through the same thing as me?

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Tuesday, December 12, 2023

Starting Postpartum Weight Loss

I (28F) just had my first baby two weeks ago. Before I got pregnant, I was 130 lbs. I gained about 45 lbs and was around 175 lbs when I gave birth. As of today, I am 153.4 lbs. I am very thin-framed, so my goal is to get to (and stay at) 120-125 lbs. So, long story short, I am trying to lose about 30 lbs.

Until I heal up, my exercise plan is to walk 10 minutes per day starting today, and adding an additional 5 minutes per day every week. (Next week, I will walk 15 minutes per day, and the week after I will walk 20 minutes per day, for example.) In addition to that, I am just doing some kegels and gentle strengthening exercises to help my body heal from giving birth (cat/cows, clamshells, and pelvic tilts). After I’m a little more healed, I would like to start hiking, running, biking, and swimming as well as doing whole-body strengthening exercises, but I’m definitely not capable of that yet.

My nutrition goal for this week is to only have one caloric drink per day. I’ve been drinking a lot of chocolate milk and Soylent and Gatorade because I’m trying to get enough fluids for breastfeeding, but starting now, I will switch to mostly drinking plain water.

Is anyone else here postpartum? If so, how is it going? This being my first pregnancy (and first time trying to lose weight), I’d love to hear about what other people’s experiences are/have been.

In case it matters to anyone, I had a vaginal birth with no complications and I am exclusively breastfeeding/pumping. I know I need to consume a certain amount of calories (seems like at least 1800) to be successful at breastfeeding, so extreme dieting is not in the cards for me.

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First walk

I’m a 17 year old guy, and today I took my first walk (hopefully of many) purely for exercise. I’m 6’2” and 465 or so pounds. For years a bunch of terrible stuff has been happening to and around me, and I just started to eat and sleep without any diet or exercise. I went from like 250 to my current weight in just a few years. My friends and I were talking about going to prom and this has given me motivation. Due to some illnesses I had to move to online school and haven’t seen many friends for a while, so this is kind of a last hurrah to end high school on. I could really use some general tips for weight loss, I don’t think overeating is a problem anymore but I could be wrong and will take any advice I can get. Also I talked my mom (who has been having some of the same issues as me) into walking with me sometimes! I should also add I got denied liposuction, I really wanted to get rid of my moobs but I was too fat for it, so if there’s anything I can do specifically for that I’d like to know.

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12 Easy Peppermint Recipes to Sweeten Your Holidays

Peppermint: the delightful flavor that adds cheer to beloved holiday treats. It perfectly complements chocolate in a variety of sweet creations and enhances the taste of seasonal beverages, all without adding extra calories. Moreover, according to research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, peppermint essential oil may aid in appetite suppression.

The refreshing taste of peppermint extract, combined with a touch of real candy canes, makes these peppermint recipes ideal for sharing with loved ones during festive gatherings. And the best part? These treats are not only delicious but also healthy, ensuring you can savor them whenever you desire! Celebrate the holidays with the irresistible charm of peppermint-infused delights.

1. Healthy Peppermint Bark

Healthy Peppermint Bark

We’re here to tell you that you can indulge in peppermint bark this holiday season and stay on track to your weight loss goal. This version is easy to make in your freezer with layers of melted chocolate chips and nonfat Greek yogurt flavored with peppermint extract and vanilla extract. A topping of crushed candy canes gives your bark a festive look, a bit of crunch, and even more peppermint flavor.

Get the Healthy Peppermint Bark recipe.

2. Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

When you’re craving cookies that won’t wreck your diet, this recipe is your answer. They have real chocolaty flavor thanks to cocoa powder and mini chocolate chips, while peppermint extract and crushed candy provide a cool minty taste. Make a batch for the office or neighborhood cookie swap and be prepared for recipe requests from everybody who tries one.

Get the Chocolate Peppermint Cookies recipe.

3. Chocolate Peppermint Marshmallow Sticks

Chocolate Peppermint Marshmallow Sticks

Here’s a fun holiday treat that you can whip up in minutes. These sticks include salty pretzel rods, sweet candy canes and fluffy marshmallows, all with a coating of melted chocolate and crushed candy canes. The kids will rave about them, but you can have them, too, because this recipe fits into your Nutrisystem plan!

Get the Chocolate Peppermint Marshmallow Sticks recipe.

4. Chocolate Peppermint Protein Shake

Chocolate Peppermint Protein Shake

Your Chocolate Nutrisystem Shake Mix is the foundation for a nutritious shake that has the festive flavor of the holidays. The shake mix is blended with unsweetened vanilla almond milk, your choice of water or brewed coffee, cocoa powder and peppermint extract. You might say it’s a party in a glass!

Get the Chocolate Peppermint Protein Shake recipe.

5. Instant Pot Chocolate Peppermint Rice Pudding

Instant Pot Chocolate Peppermint Rice Pudding

Rice pudding is a classic comfort food we’ve updated to make healthier, simpler to prepare and more flavorful. We use brown rice for fiber to help you feel full, then blend it with nonfat milk and nonfat half-and-half for a creamy texture. Cocoa powder and peppermint extract add lots of flavor but no calories.

Get the Instant Pot Chocolate Peppermint Rice Pudding recipe.

6. Chocolate Peppermint Cups

Chocolate Peppermint Cups

Eating candy when you’re losing weight sounds almost too good to be true, but this recipe makes it possible. Each bite treats you to layers of rich chocolate and cool mint. These cups have a delightful seasonal flavor, but once you taste them, you’ll want them all year long.

Get the Chocolate Peppermint Cups recipe.

7. Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

Warm up your whole gang on a cold day with this delicious variation on standard hot chocolate. Skim milk and fat-free whipped topping ensure this drink is creamy while keeping the calorie count down. The rich flavor comes from sweet white chocolate and zingy peppermint extract.

Get the Peppermint White Hot Chocolate recipe.

8. Iced Protein Peppermint Cookies

Iced Protein Peppermint Cookies

Cookies can be both a healthy snack and sweet lift to your day during the holiday season. These are easy to make with a mashed banana, whole wheat flour and Vanilla Nutrisystem Shake Mix. Once they’re done baking, you frost them with a thick and creamy blend of almond milk, more Nutrisystem Shake Mix and peppermint extract.

Get the Iced Protein Peppermint Cookies recipe.

9. No-Bake Candy Cane Pudding Cups

No-Bake Candy Cane Pudding Cups

These tempting desserts are sure to cause some oohs and aahs when you serve them, but they’re so easy to make with packets of sugar-free cheesecake pudding mix and chocolate pudding mix. All you do is blend each of the mixes with milk, add peppermint extract to the cheesecake, and layer the two types of pudding together after they set. Each spoonful is smooth, creamy and popping with seasonal flavor.

Get the No-Bake Candy Cane Pudding Cups recipe.

10. 14-Calorie Mint Chocolate Meringues

Mint Chocolate Meringues

Indulge in the delightful goodness of our 14-calorie Mint Chocolate Meringues that will leave you in awe! These delectable treats, sweetened naturally with stevia, boast a delicate peppermint flavor, creating a magical experience for your taste buds. Each bite is a heavenly combination of mint and chocolate, making it hard to believe that this cookie can be so low in calories. Don’t miss out on this guilt-free pleasure that will leave you craving for more!

Get the Mint Chocolate Meringues recipe.

11. Chocolate Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Chocolate Peppermint Swirl Cookies

These delightful cookies combine the richness of chocolate and the invigorating flavor of peppermint, creating a swirl of festive joy. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, delectable treat that unveils layers of indulgent cocoa and refreshing peppermint. What sets these cookies apart is their healthful twist. Experience the ultimate joy of indulging in these chocolate-peppermint cookies, perfect for the holiday season.

Get the Chocolate Peppermint Swirl Cookies recipe.

12. Skinny Peppermint Mocha Cold Brew

Skinny Peppermint Mocha Cold Brew

With this recipe, you’ll enjoy a special coffee with a sweet seasonal taste and avoid loading up on excess calories, sugar and fat. Just blend cold brew coffee, almond milk, real cocoa powder, natural sweetener stevia and a few drops of peppermint extract. If you’re sharing a coffee break with someone else or you just what to make it even more of a treat, top your drink with light whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy.

Get the Skinny Peppermint Mocha Cold Brew recipe.

The post 12 Easy Peppermint Recipes to Sweeten Your Holidays appeared first on The Leaf.



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Current Course on Making the Biggest Change of My Life

Hey everyone. Not exactly sure what I'm looking to accomplish with this topic, but I guess mostly just putting my own story out there to see what discussions can come of it.

So I've tried doing a weight loss thing multiple times throughout my life. I've been obese my entire conscious existence, and I'm 28. I literally can't remember a time I was on a scale that read less than 250Ibs. The best I've looked was probably High School when I was at about 260Ibs at a hair under 6', while I was playing football. After High School and through college, it got far worse. At the end of September this year, I clocked at the doctor's office 373Ibs. Last January, I was weighed at the dentist's office, and that read 405Ibs. I can't say if that scale was accurate, but if they weigh me again this month I'll know for sure. September was when I kicked in my current weight loss attempt that has been by far the most successful. This morning I was at 338Ibs.

The main motivators from that were two-fold. The first was I got a nasty skin infection that resulted in an egg-sized abscess on my waist right in my stomach fold. The location of it hurt so fucking bad. Plus I dealt with it for a longer period because it was resistant to the initial anti-biotics. I really don't want that fold there anymore for that to happen again. The second motivator was I went to a concert, and bought about $100 worth of merch. A long-sleeve shirt and a zip-up hoodie. Only thing is the band didn't have my size, so I had to go fairly smaller than where I currently am. I don't want to waste that money, so I'm looking to fit into it in the future.

This has been very challenging, there are a number of things aspects of me that are really not conducive to losing weight. One is I've got a sweet tooth like you wouldn't believe. My Dad and his Dad before him as well. We've all admitted to at one point taking a can of frosting, and scooping some out with a spoon to eat directly. Yep.

The second is my portion control has always sucked. Mostly because I'm almost incapable of feeling "over-full" or "stuffed". When eating out with friends or family, I could eat twice the amount of food they did, and they'd be over there complaining about eating too much and moaning/groaning about it, meanwhile I'm ready to go walking around a store no problem. Again, my Grandpa was known for being this way too. He used to regularly eat like five whoppers from Burger King in a single meal. Weirdly, he was and still is not obese.

Third for me is I'm what my family calls a "picky eater". Except I'm also full-blown into eating things a lot of people wouldn't touch, especially if it came from the ocean. Whatever. Problem is most vegetables taste vile to me. Onions, lettuce, tomatoes, mushrooms, peas, you get the idea. Peppers are the worst, they smell like sewage to me. I don't know how no one else smells that. Thankfully most cooked vegetables are fine to me. Broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, carrots, etc. It just means that salads of any kind are almost completely off the table, and so are most plant-based condiments.

So, what am I doing to work around all this? Well the one thing I actually am pretty good at is going fairly long periods without eating much. When it's a mealtime, I can't stop myself from eating a massive portion, but I've gone 24 hours pretty easily without eating anything if I'm distracted by something. So after trying lots of different things, what has finally been working for me is this. No breakfast, my lunch is about half a bag of baby carrots (like 45 calories worth), and my supper is whatever I want so long as it's at or below 1400 calories. I've been doing this for the past few months, and it's been very nice actually seeing some results for the first time in a decade. Of course, sweets have been completely cut out. This has definitely been the toughest as my sweet tooth has never gone away, and I feel like a crackhead whenever I'm in line at a convenience store and I see the confectioneries they place near the cash register. But the number going down most mornings have been able to overcome that so far.

I work an office job, so pretty sedentary. I don't want to spend the money on a gym membership, because it takes all my motivation just to drive to a grocery store (I only go to 24 hour places at like 1AM when no one's there). Nothing's in walking distance neither. What I have been able to do though, was I purchased a Meta Quest 3 VR headset at the end of November. I had a VR headset prior, but it was an old first generation HTC Vive, and it had the tether. Being able to play even PCVR games wirelessy was a game changer. I regularly put in around 1.5 to 2 hours a night playing VR first person shooter games. Just finished playing through the Half-Life 2/Episode trilogy in VR. Yeah, it's not supposedly an intense workout, but several moments in those games do get me sweating pretty good, and I'm standing the whole time. Plus I don't use the controllers to turn around or anything, that's all physical movement (hence why I love the wireless so much). I've noticed over time it's getting easier and less painful to play those long sessions which is great!

Supposedly my TDEE would have me losing weight at even 2000 calories per day, but that has not seemed to be the case. I always gain significant weight if I approach that number. The sweet spot from my testing has been 1400, so that's where I'm staying.

Here's hoping I can stick with this. My goal is to be able to fit into the band merch I mentioned by at least Fall of next year. Though if I can fit into the shirt by a certain event happening in April, I'd be especially happy. I don't know what my end goal is. Supposedly a person my height/age should be around like 165Ibs? I can't even imagine that at this point. I probably haven't been at that weight since I was like 7, so that'd be a weird day. I suppose another motivator to mention: I like to play guitar. My size doesn't do me any favors however, as my fingers are pretty round, and my stomach has my guitar sitting a distance out in front of me such that my right arm has to reach out and around it, making it not an ideal playing stance. I know there's a lot of guitarists that make it work, like Dino Cazeras from Fear Factory, but anything to make that easier would be nice lol.

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