JSHelgerson's Journal, 25 July 2008

Ok, I don't know anything about LAWL, But I DO know about exceedingly frustrating weight loss issues. I started at 266, lost 7 pounds right away, and then nothing. I bounced back and forth 1 pound. This has happened to me many many times. The only thing that has worked for me this time (which has slowed from lack of effort not from the plan) is having 2 high cheat days a week. If your body was used to a lot of takeout/fatty type foods, it SERIOUSLY resists cutting down, thinks it's starving all the time even with "enough" calories. I found that if I followed my WW points for 4-5 days of the week, and interjected 2-3 high days in between, I consistently took off a pound a week, which is huge for me being consistent! And when I'm talking high days, I mean KFC and Chinese food (with a reasonable breakfast to get metabolism going!) It seems to be the only thing that convinces my body that it is still getting enough. I know it goes against everything we are taught, but in a way it is logical. I hope this helps you!!!!! Tia  

I did very well when I first started on the plan. Then last summer they changed their entire plan, lots more carbs, less protein and it has not worked super well for me. Ask them to put you down on a lower plan, insist on it. It is very discouraging when nothing happens on the scale, also for your starches try the veggies and beans that will give you more protein, disguised as starches. Also be very very careful about your sodium intake, you would be surprised how much there is in almost every food. For me the plan works best when I do hardly any processed foods and add soy/tofu to it and lost of salads and seafood. And stay away from my trigger foods, which is why i do not do the LA lites or I would be eating them all day long. Also stick closely to plan and make sure you get enough water and start an exercise program. I think I may try Tia's suggestion about the high days and splurging once in a while as I have been stuck in the 250's forever now.....Just do not give up and hang in there because it is so worth it.........You can do this. :-)  

Water, water, water. They say 8-8oz glasses, drink 12 instead. Completely cut out any other beverages (except coffee) they will only confuse your body. Water will naturally flush out the excess sodium from your body. You should being peeing clear by Noon everyday. Also, breakfast is KEY! I make 1 egg, 2oz turkey or ham, 1oz shredded reduced fat cheese and put it on a light english muffin. I eat it, with a piece of fruit EVERY SINGLE MORNING. I count it as 1 protein, 1 starch, 1/2 dairy, and 1 fruit. I'm officially now on Plan #4, even though I haven't kept a journal for a while. YOU CAN DO THIS!!! 

I may try some of these suggestions. I still really think my body is fighting me big time, which is why I get these big time cravings which I usually cave in to...... 

Thanks everyone for the encouragement and tips. I truly appreciate it! I'm doing Take Off today and tomorrow. Hopefully that will kick start something for me!