I used to be one of those skinny girls who complained about looking fat.
Senior year of high school, at 91 pounds, I would sit around the lunch table with my friends and talk about how fat I looked. What's sad is that I really did believe it.
Um, I kind of want that body back.
What was I thinking?!?! I was a size zero. I looked fantastic. I managed to keep that weight all the way through college.
But as soon as I got my first office job, I let myself go. Things in my life were changing and my body was the last thing on my mind. I was sitting in a cubicle all day. Stress gave me cravings. My boyfriend took me out to expensive restaurants practically every night. I became a lush (fruity martinis are the devil). I moved out on my own and lost control of my regular eating habits.
Now here I am, four years after college graduation, and 30 pounds heavier. It may not sound like a lot to you, but with my tiny frame, it's a huge deal.
My self-esteem is pretty much non-existent. Eighty percent of my closet does not fit me anymore. Shopping sucks when nothing cute looks cute on you. I rarely take photos of myself these days. When I look in the mirror, I see a giant football with long brown hair.
I want to start losing weight, but I need to do it in moderation. I need to slowly change my lifestyle. Combating cravings would be a blessing. I know just making the most simple and smallest changes will help push me in the right direction.
Any tips?
78 comments:
I write a health blog about me trying to get healthy. And there are tons of links to other health blogs on it too.
You'll find tons of tips.
The same thing happened to me, but in college. I have since lost the freshman 30 that stayed on for my 5 years of study (undergrad and grad) but am starting to revert back to some old ways and I get a little paranoid now because it creeps up on you :S I think slow and steady win the race. I am no expert but in college at one point I did become an exercise freak for a short few months, shed the weight and went abroad and 6 months later I was 30 pounds heavier again (back to square one) until I let it slowly melt...I am a big proponent of spanx, not talking about what you are doing with others (blogs don't count as much!) and letting your health be number one...and then, someone might compliment you-you know the sincere kind because you haven't mentioned that you were cutting back and that might motivate you even more...and think skinny!?!? That might be my biggest advice although I've gained 2 pounds this week eating tons of junk food...I need to practice what I am preaching, right?
By the way, I really do think you are beautiful! Don't be so harsh on yo-self!!!
Good Luck,
Hope :) xx
Eating salad daily, cutting back on pasta and not denying yourself to the point of bingeing helps too. I should've made salad yesterday and today!!!
When I quit my two vanilla latte a day habit because it was costing my almost 50$ I went down 2 jean sizes. Bonus! I also switched to whole grains awhile back and finally joined a gym last week. I just got so tired of feeling sluggish all the time.
Good luck to you, I think you're gorgeous!
Definitely don't deprive yourself--it just makes you crave more and leads to an ultimate binge. Also, cooking more and bringing your lunch to work helps heaps! You already look totally fab but I understand the internal desire to lose a few for vanity's (and sanity) sake! Oh yes, drink lots of water throughout the day-you'd be surprised how much it helps!
xx,
Anna Jane
oops, that should be: "costing me almost 50$ a week"
I think I could use a coffee now. Black. ;-)
Everything in moderation... that's the key. Just be prepared to make a lifestyle change. You can do it. xoxo
i know the feeling. I gained too much weight when I studied abroad in Paris, um hello macaroons, and I've had trouble loosing it since being back. Recently I signed up for Weight Watchers because you can eat the things you really want and it really teaches you how to eat the right amount. It's tough but worth it in the end!!! just remember, if you think you're 100% perfect, so will everyone else. confidence is the most important. And I'm right there with ya!!!
xxx. alyssa
http://macaroons-and-me.blogspot.com/
Jennifer! please feel free to email me! any questions you might have, work outs you are interested in....let me know! :) ivamessy@gmail.com
I went thru the same thing about 2 years ago( I'll have to RE-BLOg the story). I realized it wasn't something on the SURFACE that necessarily was what kept off or on weight, but a "SELF' matter that i needed to deal with from the root. Most times our weight (when it's extreme) is a reflection of an emotion that we're going thru. So instead of finding ways to gain or loose the weight, start dealing with what's really causing you to put on or loose. Once you acknowlegde THAT (ive found) there's the answer, and there your body will respond IN perfect MODERATION.
Have a fab evening Jen :0 )
Food and exercise of course. I'll just talk about the food part - moderation but also learning to eat differently..lots of vegetables, lean proteins, minimal fats. We're somewhat healthy around here and I'm cutting out all meats except chicken entirely (hard since I love pork). We have fresh vegetables every day and I'm trying to figure out what healthy snacks to stock (husband is allergic to quite a few nuts, maybe low fat Wheat Thins?).
Above all, be realistic and try to make changes for your life and health, not just temporary, diety kinda changes.
Buy those low calorie hot chocolate packets and drink one of those whenever you want something sweet. It's low in calories, carbs, and fat, but still tastes sweet.
Curb the cravings, lose weight. That's the way it usually works...at least for me. :(
Try going all organic. Eat the things you want to eat --just ensure they're the organic versions. You'd be amazed at the weight that melts off strictly from getting processed sugars etc. out of your bod.
XO
Carly
All this is Grace and Charm
http://allthisgraceandcharm.blogspot.com
I hear ya... what I would GIVE to be my college weight again. I sort of hate lettuce so my lunchtime salads are mildly depressing but honestly now I feel kind of gross when I eat a bowl of pasta. Baby steps... and lots of water! xoxo
Omg, I hear ya, I was 90lbs, in highschool too. I'm 20 lbs. heavier. I was seeing myself getting out of control and I increased my workout. EVERY night I do 250 crunches or more. I never miss a day and that def helps keep my body in check. So I still eat whatever I want, but I make sure I'm exercising everyday for 20 mins and it really does help. It takes time before you see results, but I have a girly six pack now. I didn't see my body changing but it did. It took about 2 months before I looked in the mirror and smiled at my stomach. I feel ya though. We're girls we always want to be thinner.
Loved the picture on your post, very clever.
makeuponmind.blogspot
I think you should start loving yourself and this is going to be a good start! I strongly believe that other people see us as we see ourselves. I was 10 kilos heavier 2 years ago. I managed to lose the extra weight with a good breakfast, healthy lunch and small dinner. I also don't add too much sugar in my coffee and try to go jogging twice a week! Let your best self out and everyone will see you! You are beautiful! Don't forget this!
I love to eat. I can't resist on italian kitchen. I need it. So i eat everything. XD
Just have simple steps. Exercise, check the portions of your meals and don't starve yourself cause you'll end up binging afterwards anyway! Hope this helps =)
mystique-glamour
Idk, this post kind of makes me sad :(
I am with you, darling! Let's just try to be sensible about eating right and exercising!
xoxox,
CC
It's definitely tricky for me! My friend swears she dropped her Mountain Dew habit (a problem we share) and lost a bunch of weight... but she walks around all day for her job and I sit in a cube, so it hasn't helped me as much. I agree with previous posters- just don't starve yourself! That ends up doing more harm than good.
In the past I've tried the silly Weight Watchers point system. It actually does work. Even though its a pain in the ass, you really can't rationalize cheating...
Now I try to run 4 mornings a week. I like it because it helps with stress too, which is good cause I'm one of those people who eats stress away!
I totally was the SAME way. Well not a size 0 but a size 4 and i was so tiny and thought i was fat. How i would love that body back lol. i have been trying to work out more with different exercises- classes, the elliptical, ballet- and also watching my portions.
I am terrified about gaining weight too.I managed to keep my body weight under control all the way through college(I have one more month to go) but I am afraid things will get out of hand when I will get a full time job.Right now I keep fit exercising on my elliptical bike and eating healthy,salads,fruits,yogurts and cereals.It'a lot of work,hope you will be successful with your diet.
Tokyo and Seoul Dreams
Oh, I understand. I used to have crystal clear skin, and now...well I have no idea what the hell happened.
Weight has always been a battle for me.
3 months ago i started recording EVERYTHING that I ate. I threw out my weight scale 8 years ago, and just recently bought a food scale. It's really important to know how much you're eating. If your cereal box says 3/4 cup, it's hard to measure. Usually it will give you a serving in grams, so i just weigh it on the food scale.
Same for cheese. "How much is an oz of cheese?!" Weight it!
That's my best tip. know how much you eat. And then www.Sparkpeople.com it's the MOST AMAZING site ever! and, it's free. :)
Amber
ambersmouthash
I too have a weight issue..and I hate to exercise. The key is to find a physical activity that you love. I love hiking and try to do it once or twice in a week and I combine it with weight watchers!!
I know, we all think we are fat when we really aren't. I don't really know where you can find motivation but I'm sure you'll get there somehow. Good Luck!!! You can do it Jen :)
-The Trendy Fashionista
http://thetrendyfashionista.blogspot.com
The best tip I can give is if you're craving a snack, don't go for chocolate (or junk food), but have some fruit instead.
Honestly? I think you look fine just the way you are. But if you really want to change: you have hundreds of cheerleaders right here! Keep us updated and we'll follow you every step of the way.
Hi gorgeous!
Firstly, you are beautiful no matter what your weight. But if you really want to shed some pounds, my suggestion is to find a friend who wants to get fit, too. Do stuff with her: go for a jog, go to the gym, take a fun class (like kickboxing or bellydancing or something that you find fun), ride a bike, go for a hike... try to mix up your activities, too, so you don't get bored.
Also, keep a food diary. It really makes you watch what you eat! Eat as many fruit and veggies as you can, drink tons of water and green tea, and cut back on anything sugary or fatty.
Hope this helps! GOOD LUCK darling xx
Okay, you are gorgeous. But obvi we all support you and will help in any way we can.
When I seriously want to lose some weight, I start by keeping more fresh fruit around -- preferably on the counter, where I'll see it first thing when I get hungry.
My three-bite rule allows me to have three bites of whatever I want, whenever I want it -- that's like eight chips, half of a brownie, etc. -- and then I stop.
Working out, much to my dismay, does help. But finding something fun is good. If you're self-conscious about going to a gym (although everyone there is so focused on finishing their own workout that I've found nobody notices me, haha), start with videos at home and biking or jogging around the neighborhood. Just make sure to keep a variety or you will in fact get bored.
And water, water, water! It fills you and keeps cravings at bay.
Good luck, dear!
xxoo Josie
http://winksmilestyle.blogspot.com
Aw Jen. First of all you've always been beautiful to me. That's no lie, I think you're impossibly cute and whether you put on or take off weight I'll always see you this way.
I know you can take off as much weight as you want to. You've been an amazing cheerleader for Sandy; you've believed in her ability to do it but you have to believe in yours. It all starts between your ears.
You've had so much advice I can't really add anything else, but if you really want it I know you can do what you set your mind to.
I love you and miss our talks.
xo
i used to nag about my weight a lot too. but now that i feel like i've been hallucinating myself for no good reason, so i came to stop and appreciate life more. besides, i just love love love food. i can really marry them.
ANDWHATELSEISTHERE
SHOP
every monday i say ill start a diet, but let's face it, you just need a lot of motivation and support ! there are always so many temptations !
I know I know how you feel! I've put on a lot more than what I used to be and am striving hard to get back in shape! Let's plana summer program, what say?! :)
When I go to fancy restaurants I only eat fish and vegetables along with bottled water with loads of magnesium. For first course I usually have a vegetable soup, salad or king prawns. When I cook it's mainly organic chicken, some fish, loads of green vegetables. I also consume quite a bit of fruits, nuts, wild/brown rice and sweet potatoes. I don't snack since; it's not in my culture to do so. I eat small portions daily and I also walk in the wooods everyday for 1h:30-2hrs.
My age is 37. Am 38 in August. As for cheese: I only eat aged cheese ( Parmesan ) which is a good source of calcium.
Sorry to hear about that you are not feeling good in your body. Try doing it by taking small steps. deprive yourself but don't overindulge on junk foods. I embrace you, sweetie:-)
Hello, Miss Fabulous~
I'm a small person too, so I totally understand how gaining weight can make a more noticeable difference. If I even gain five or six pounds, people ask me about it.
I actually have three simple and creative ideas you may not have thought of that help you move beyond simple willpower. I'm pretty private about health stuff, so email me and I'll give you the tips that way.
Thank-you for commenting on my blog. I feel your sincerity and kindness and it means a lot. You really can lose the weight. I've had three babies, (gained an average of 50 pounds with each one and started out at 100 lbs). During those times of exhaustion, overwork, snacking, not enough exercise, and gaining weight, I wondered if I'd ever get back again. I'm almost 39 and I weigh almost the same as I did in high school.
People always say that weight doesn't matter, but it does. There's so much more to weight than just size. For me, weight gain usually means that I'm out of balance in a lot of areas of my life and I'm not being as conscious in my choices as makes me the most happy. Does that make sense? When I weigh more, it's usually because I'm eating too many carbs, and that messes with my hormones and fatigue levels and on and on. It becomes a vicious cycle. So it's not all about looks.
Love and more love.
Everyone has left some amazing advice and tips! There's really not much to add other than...
I'm your 200th follower!!!! :)
and btw...you're gorgeous!
Bren @ Chasing Beauty
I think a lot of the times, stress happens over weight, because society pounds images of thin models in our head everyday. We feel bad when we gain wait. I wouldn't sweat it. I try to eat healthy and exercise and the rest falls in place.
Hugs,
Bug
inbugsdrawers.blogspot.com
yappphh, just believe that you can do it,, more excercise,,, no more junkfood at all :)
you go girl :)
Just make sure you'll do it healthily, you are beautiful either way.
Thanks so much for your lovely comment darling =]
Stay safe and chic ma chérie,
English Rose x
http://iamanenglishrose.blogspot.com
eat everything in moderation! try to avoid fried, greasy and sugary food and consume more fruits and veggies ;) oh, and cut your meal portions! try to eat less but often. my friend cut his meal portions into half than normal, still ate 3 times a day, after 4-5 months later BAM he slimmed down A LOT. good luck Jen!
Well even though I'm still in high school I know what you're going through. I had lost a lot of weight before I came to high school, and then gained even more weight than I had lost throughout my years here. And now I'm trying to lose that weight, but I support you in this.
Some tips... Do a lot of cardio, and I know this might sound cliche, but eat fruit. Or eat a piece of fruit with every meal. =]
Eat everything you want, but in smaller portions :) Also, I read that drinking lots of water with lemon also helps reduce extra fat around the tummy area - which I plan on doing as well haha. Good luck, you can totally do this!
First of all: 30 pounds to 91 isn't really fat, but I do agree, office life is absolutely dreadful for us. Like caged animals - no wonder we are looking for consolation elsewhere. I eat whatever and as much as I want, but I have some simple rules: No snacking, no dinner (only occasionally) and not much, but some daily exercise. But most important of all: Don't beat yourself up. Size 0 is minute. Wishing you a lovely weekend. xx
i used to think i was a bit chubby in high school..and i look back and i don't understand how. i weigh a bit more then then now and sometimes it bothers me. the best thing to do is to eat healthy (don't deprive yourself - think moderation) and to start walking (this helps me a LOT!). it's an easy way to get active.
and don't be hard on yourself, you are gorgeous jennifer! xoxo
very interesting post it looks good
I gained some weight too when I moved in with my boyfriend, but I decided to do the 30 day Shred from Jillian Michaels and I have to say, I am feeling so much better (and I didn't have to drastically change things too much at all).
BTW, you are gorgeous...pls don't forget that!
xoxo
Amy
eeesshh keeping weight off & staying thin is usually a pain. Since I'm currently into Real Housewives of New York City, I'd say pick up Bethanny Frankels 'Skinny Girl' book because she's a friggin tiny model size but is ALWAYS very healthy ;) (and she's hilarious)
I think it's important to never let yourself go although it's like the easiest thing to do but don't do it! Whatever happens in life, you should always remember that your body is the most important thing you got! Try taking a walk everyday for about 15 minutes, make a habit of eating salads and fruits and reward yourself after a good healthy meal. Then go to exercise tv and choose a workout tht you like or you can do my favorite workout, dancing!! Just put on your favorite music and start shaking! You'll have fun and lose weight! xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
I totally feel you. On top of all that you mentioned, something happens in the metabolism in your 20s (and 30s, though I'm not yet there). Here is what I recommend:
http://www.20somethingcupcakes.com/category/work-it/
Insanity seems crazy, and it is. But it works WONDERS! Jillian is good too, but if you want fast results, Insanity is it! xxSAS
I'm right there with you. My eating habits have been terrible lately and I really need to get things under control. I'm going to start by trying to make sure I have 5 servings of fruits and veggies a day. Let's do it together!
Just tips I learned:
-Drink water! Or skim milk or fresh orange juice.
-Eat every 3, 4 or 5 hours. At least a little snack, but a healthy one.
-Don't eat "snack bars" like granola or protein ones b/c those are just not as healthy--a sandwich is healthier than those bars.
-Eat a least two pieces of fruit for breakfast!
-If you don't like salad, don't force yourself to eat it. I'm sure you'll like a bowl of fruit (with 1 tbs of organic sugar?) better.
-Don't weigh yourself. A measuring tape is 10x better b/c it doesn't make ppl feel bad.
-Choose 100% whole wheat bread or multi-grain bread--ditch the white ones. (I think wheat tastes better!)
-If you don't buy chips or have any chips at home, you'll be less likely to eat them!
-Baked chips or lollipops or popsicles or diet soda if you really want junk food.
Hopes it help! ^_^
yes! keep a food journal- it will force you to face what you ate in a day at the end of the night. do NOT lie to yourself.. you will watch what you eat because you will see it on paper..
good luck girl- you can do this!
xx
I think that six to six is good. never eat anything after or before 6 o'clock. don't eat in between meals. no junk foods and softdrinks, no sweets. And of course, exercise. Recognizing the need of discipline in losing weight is already a big step. Be determined and work for it girl. It must be very rewarding. :)
uhmm i would say that two things that are easy to give up in my eyes are all soft drinks and sugary drinks with high fructose corn syrup.
give up all the liquor and any beer. dont stop drinking all the time but just do it like once a month.
also drink tons of water . and dont ever ever ever eat at any fast food place again
other than that go small . choose no mayo on sandwhiches you know what i mean
hello jennifer, thanks for your sweet comment at my blog :) keep in touch yaa!
xoxo, bee ♥
http://missingbee.blogspot.com/
90+30? 120 is nothing girl! Rock it!
joellenlove.blogspot.com
you have ability to do anything remember it , take wise decision
Oh boy...I moved to Seattle a year ago, and I'm having the same problem. I've gained weight. My eating habits are crap. And I'm so stressed after working long hours that I almost don't care.
Good luck with a getting a better body, lady! I know you can do it. :-)
Think all of us go through this face as soon as we get a job or something , i soo need to shred some pounds of as well,some useful tips here in the comment section :)
Hmm...I usually walk everywhere instead of driving which depending on how close you live to your job, is very helpful! I still think you look beautiful though, darling!
I'm so sorry to hear that this is a problem for you. I think you are beautiful and one of the most amazing friends I have ever had and while I don't think you need to change, I do recognise how you are feeling and I know that you want to and that it is an issue for you. I really wish I could help you but in regards to this I don't have too much advice. This is because I have quite a bad diet myself and I do not exercise so what I am saying is that I'm not a very good example. I see that other readers of your blog have lots of good ideas and lots of people are willing to support you. Since this is what you want to do, I am confident that you will have the determination to carry it through because I have seen you overcome other challenges recently and I believe in you.
Story of my life during college. I was pretty small in high school, and ate McDonalds apple pies everyday in college (sick). One day, after I came back from spring break I took one look at a picture and I cried. That same day, I started Weight Watchers. I went to the meetings, worked out sometimes twice a day and maintained a healthy life style.
It taught me how to eat in smaller portions, make smarter choices (dinner vs. cheesecake) and the meetings really gave me something to look forward to.
I learned that making smaller changes in your life and habits are the key to maintaining, walk instead of drive. Have fruit instead of chocolate, have one drink instead of 5-etc..
I lost 35 lbs in 2008 and have kept it off since. It sounds like you just need that push to get you started, I strongly suggest joining a weight loss group-a lot of people think they don't work and that they are corny older women with nothing to do..so not true. It was a million times easier for me to lose weight when I went to the meetings rather than doing it on my own.
And one more thing.. working out really works! If anything, overall you will start to feel better about yourself because you did something and stuck with it.
Trust me, if anyone knows your pain-it's me! If you ever want to vent, talk or simply need inspiration..e-mail me and ps) you're beautiful.
I find that if I don't have junk food in the house, I don't crave it as much! And as soon as you start eating less sugar, your body starts to crave it less and less.
And thanks for stopping by my blog... hope to see you back again soon!!
xoxo
jess
http://CheapButChicClothes.blogspot.com/
This post is the story of my life...
Hey hunny,
Sorry I've been absent so long ... you know how it is.
You've received some great advice. You know my story and I have appreciated your support so much. I hope you know you really are a beautiful woman, inside and out. But I understand the weight thing ... for me it was about 80 pounds before I said ENOUGH!
Please cut yourself some slack ... one good thing on your side ... you're young. If it concerns you, take care of the weight and health issues now before you get to be my age. It's a LOT harder now. It can be discouraging when it doesn't happen fast enough. While everyone had great ideas, mostly slow and steady, do it healthy, eat healthy foods, get active, you'll have to find what works for you.
the thing that really helped me was when I started thinking like a healthy, fit person. It made such a difference.
Any time you need a hug, you know I'm here. Big hugs to you now.
Love you!
SOS
Limited portions of food and going to the gym 3 times per week ,it worked for me. Def helps a lot.
Hope you're having a great weekend!
B xx
health/weight loss/diets are my most favorite thing to study in the entire world. i don't really follow any of them. but i like to know all of the theories out there.
basically, what you said is the best way to do it. slowly. and make long term changes and not quick fixes because those always lead to gaining the weight back. i think the first thing is exercise, get moving for at least 30 minutes a day. even if it's just a brisk walk. also, trade your desk chair for a giant stability ball. also, cutting out all beverages with calories. you would be shocked how much weight you can loose just by sticking to water and tea.
twice a week go vegan. you will up your veggies and grain(vitamins and fiber) and cut down on saturated fat. also, avoid all "white" foods. yes, go on a racist diet. haha. seriously, switch from white rice to brown, white potatoes to sweet. and you will see a difference.
and just love your body for exactly what it is. and treat it well and you will see results. if you are looking for exercises check out the tracy anderson method, gpaltrow's trainer. i loooove her work outs they make me feel long and lean.
http://laurenlanzaosias.blogspot.com
quick living room revamp...
TREAD THE MILL! As exhausting and tiring as it may be, it's worth it. Plus, not only do yoo lose your unwanted flubber: but you keep fit too.
I don't believe in not junking, but just minimising the amount if junk I consume.
Oh, and Jen, your bidy is FAB the way it is!
It's what makes you, you!
XOXO
how about writing a food diary? making a list of lunches for each day? Also apparently your body gets use to the same routine of food every day so by just varying your breakfast cereal every other day your body will burn more calories instead of storing them. I really want to tone up but im such a comfort eater so ive taken to walking every night, its great to clear my heard of stress too :)
xo
What I meant to say was: Don't deprive yourself:-)
Eat small portions during the day and daily walk, run, swim ( or your choice of workout daily)
Cute dress! You look great.
xx,
Anna Jane
http://seejaneworkplaylive.blogspot.com/
First off, you are gorgeous!! And I completely understand how you are feeling - but you should know you are not alone! The blog world inspired me to write about my weight loss...it may be the nudge that you are looking for :)
Hey sweetie bravo for opening up about how you feel, a lot of us feel the same including me! I think what you said about starting slowly is key. Just start by taking away things slowly at a time, watch your portions, and learn how to say no! Easier said than done I know, but when you start eating in moderation and take care of your body more then your self esteem will be better. I understand because I have put on about 20 lbs since college and it's hard getting it off! Also finding a sport or activity that you like helps a ton, believe me. You can do it sweetie and no matter the weight, you are lovely! xo!
right !!Everything in moderation.
indian classified site
This is a forever topic. Your point there is interesting. Like your blog.
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