When I began to feel stable I realized that I had to do something about my weight! Here is how I did it. I decided try Weight Watchers. They have a new program, which uses a calculator and a point system.
I will confess, I signed up and dropped out after about three weeks. I am just not the kind of person who will go to the meetings. It is a really a great program, if you are that type of person. I did lose my first 12 lbs with them, so stick with it, if you can. I decided to stay on their point system, but not continue to pay out any more money.
I decided to customize my own diet and stick with the point system from Weight Watcher. You can buy their calculator which converts the food you eat into points. As you lose weight the calculator makes the proper adjustment, it is very helpful and easy.
Make your diet realistic! I love McDonald's and I did not give it up. I made it a part of my diet. By doing that I felt that I was not depriving myself. I eat one chocolate chip cookie everyday from McDonald's and that satisfies me. Reward yourself every day or you will not stick to your diet.
I keep my diet as simple as possible so I eliminate having to work so hard planning meals. Here is an example of what I will eat today. You will have to create a diet that will work for you.
Breakfast - Breakfast Burrito from McDonald's. This satisfies me, so I eat this almost every day. I know how many points it is and it is very simple. Have what you want to drink, but just keep away from sugary drinks. 8 points if you are doing Weight Watchers.
Lunch - One sandwich, piece of fruit, diet drink,(reward) Dark piece of chocolate
Dinner - Salad first, meat or fish, piece of fruit, (reward) Chocolate chip cookie
I never skip any meals. So, I am never hungry. That is the real trick, do not let yourself get hungry! I also never allow foods in the house that I love. If I want a treat like Chocolate I only have enough for that day. I do not stock the house with foods that will trigger me, that way I am not tempted.
Be patient! The weight will come off. I weigh myself one a week. If you do not lose right away do not get discouraged. It will come off.
I hate exercise! I did not exercise is the beginning. I hated the thought of it. But, as my weight went down I noticed I started moving a little easier. I had just got a new puppy and I knew he needed to walk. I felt guilty so I started to take him. At first, they were short walks, but after a month or so the walks got longer. I have started to jog with him and we both love it. My weight continues to drop. I just needed a reason to exercise and my puppy was it. Exercise, really does make you feel better.
Be kind to yourself! Dealing with Bipolar is hard enough. Do not beat yourself up over a diet. Reward your efforts, set easy goals and stick to them. People will start to notice your weight loss and it will make you feel good.
I never thought I could do it. I thought it was impossible with my meds. I proved to myself that it was possible. You can do this to! Really, the hardest thing was to start. Post a comment and let me know if your starting a diet. You can do this!
