NationStates Jolt Archive

NSG, its advice time again... i'm pretty fat. i'm over 220lbs/101kg (that's what i was last time i weighed over a year ago), and my waist is over 40 (or maybe 45) inches. i'm not obese, but i am sick of being fat.

however....

the problem i have is this: what do you do when the pleasure one gets from eating and from tasting food far outweighs this irriation of being fat? i do love food - not just in the typical fat-guy's "i love to eat" way, but i really enjoy tasting things and cooking... i live for flavours in some ways; some days i just get myself through the day by imagining what i'm going to taste at the end of the day, and that motivates me.
and because flavours and food are so important to me, giving them up would be hard, and changing the flavours (ie eating wholly different things) equally so.

now, i'm not saying "its hard! i don't wanna!". what i am saying is that when eating is so core to who i am and is so very pleasurable, when it outweighs the problems of being fat, then its not just a case of 'hard', but 'what's the point?'


i should add i'm on medication for clinical depression. i often think "i'd rather die young and fat than not eat", and when i say that i'm not kidding. but the thing is i would like to lose weight, just maybe not enough.
when i was in the grip of the depression at university, food and eating was "my only pleasure left", and as such it means a lot to me.



anyway, i'll wrap up this incoherent emo whine to ask: anybody out there got any advice or been though similar problems? what can i do? somehow i have to change, but in order to do so i have to somehow (and i have no idea how to do this) get less pleasure from food, or something.... help?

oh and for the record, i have tried many diets, joining gyms, personal trainers, using gym equipment at home, all sorts of stuff, but none of it sticks not because i'm lazy (i think, kinda) but because i like food too much and i just don't care enough. how do i care more?

snip

Stop being lazy.

Exercise regularly.

Eat in moderation. You can still cook and enjoy food, but make sure that the 'treats' are part of a balanced diet.

Edit: Incidentally, I've seen your photos. You've never struck me as being a particularly fat person.

you gotta find an activity that sticks - exercise that is enjoyable in its own right. that is really the key. and once you have such a thing, set a schedule, so that you 'have to' do it.

Stairs. Lots of stairs. Move to Luxembourg, we only have space to build up, not out.

Srsly, exercise.

Correct me if im wrong, but dont you have a hottie GF named Glitz?
Im assuming the two of you are still an item, yes?

Have you consulted said hot GF for her opinion?

If your happy the way you are, and she loves you for who you are, then who cares?
If though, you just want to drop a few pounds, just walk more.

you also don't have to give up eating because you want to lose weight. just try to eat healthy, without to much fat and sugar. and you can enjoy all kinds of flavors but just don't eat a lot.
i also don't understand why you can't excercice because you love food, the two aren't mutualy exclusive, aren't they?

i just don't care enough. how do i care more?

i don't get this, if you don't care enough, don't try to lose weight. if you do care enough, try to lose weight. why would you want to care more about something? and don't you care enough about something when you make threads about it and have tried several times to do something about it?

anyway, good luck!

I'm not exactly fat but do tend to eat unhealthy stuff. Recently though I've started to eat food like homemade vegtable soup rather than a processed meal and the weight is coming off nicely.
Like you I enjoy cooking and have found that controlling what I put into my own food has really helped me feel better
My wife is on similar medication and tells me that it makes giving up nice things (in her case chocolate) really difficult

Good luck with it though

Yeah, exercise... How far from work or whatever do you live? 'Cos if it's less than 3-4 miles, walk it. If it's less than 7-8 miles cycle it (but work up to that gradually; if you just hop on a bike and try and cycle that far straight off you'll, at best, discourage yourself, and at worst do yourself a mischief).

But, to be honest? I used to be really fat (~115kgs or so) but lost loads of weight at university (I was 80kg at one point :eek:)... And it's no big deal. Clothes are easier to get (but everyone else is getting fatter, so that should sort itself out) but that's about it really.

you gotta find an activity that sticks - exercise that is enjoyable in its own right. that is really the key. and once you have such a thing, set a schedule, so that you 'have to' do it.

Yeah, exercise... How far from work or whatever do you live? 'Cos if it's less than 3-4 miles, walk it. If it's less than 7-8 miles cycle it (but work up to that gradually; if you just hop on a bike and try and cycle that far straight off you'll, at best, discourage yourself, and at worst do yourself a mischief).

But, to be honest? I used to be really fat (~115kgs or so) but lost loads of weight at university (I was 80kg at one point :eek:)... And it's no big deal. Clothes are easier to get (but everyone else is getting fatter, so that should sort itself out) but that's about it really.I second these.
Find a physical activity that you enjoy. If not weightlifting, how about racquetball, or golf?
Find ways to incoroporate more physical activity into your life. Try walking to places that you used to drive or take public transportation to. Also, after a while, find more challenging routes to take.
For instance, the area where I live is hilly. Back when I walked, I used to walk to and from work up and down the least steep hills. Then I realized that I could change my route slightly, and walk up and down steeper hills.

The only effective weight loss programme I have been on was hypnotherapy, but it worked because I chose it. Might be worth a try, but remember that there is no universal programme that works for everyone, you gotsa 'sperriment ;)

Stop being lazy.

:rolleyes: just what i expected. its more complicated than just being lazy

you gotta find an activity that sticks - exercise that is enjoyable in its own right. that is really the key. and once you have such a thing, set a schedule, so that you 'have to' do it.
sounds good... but what?
i guess i should find something i like doing, yes. last time i was going to the gym they instructed me to do this then that and this, and it all felt so pointless and painful.

i could take up swimming again :) only problem with that is being fat i get amazingly self-concious in a swimmingpool

but that's a good sensible answer thank you :) just gotta find the time (and the energy - when i get back from work at about 8pm i'm knackered)

Correct me if im wrong, but dont you have a hottie GF named Glitz?
Im assuming the two of you are still an item, yes?

Have you consulted said hot GF for her opinion?

If your happy the way you are, and she loves you for who you are, then who cares?
If though, you just want to drop a few pounds, just walk more.
she does say she likes me how i am. i just can't trust that really because i don't like me how i am.
the only place i go to daily is my office, and walking there would take maybe a couple of days :p

Fuck exercise, get lipo. :p

:rolleyes: just what i expected. its more complicated than just being lazy

It may well be more complicated but a large part of not exercising is simply laziness.

You can see the point, you've posted about it. You say you don't care enough but actually, you do.

Part of the issue is that it seems such a mountain to climb that yes, is the reward worth the effort?

Yet you should accept that:

a: it will take a long time
b: it will take some work

So start with small steps, weekly goals that are achievable. Don't stretch yourself and certainly don't deny yourself the food you love.

For a great sport - table tennis.

Make learning table tennis a goal rather than 'losing weight'. Focus on something that can be enjoyable rather than dieting, which is die with a T according to Garfield.

Or yes, lipo.

Masticate more. That way you can taste food longer while eating less.
And eat food that has more water (or maybe drink a few glasses of water during -not before- the meal), you'll feel full longer without any extra calories.

Or you could do what the romans did at big feast, eat a meal, puke it up, eat another meal, puke it up, etc. And occionally keep something down before you go to sleep. (I'm not suggesting getting bulemic, btw. As that's a compulsive disorder and not really a choice.)

NSG, its advice time again... i'm pretty fat. i'm over 220lbs/101kg (that's what i was last time i weighed over a year ago), and my waist is over 40 (or maybe 45) inches. i'm not obese, but i am sick of being fat.

however....

the problem i have is this: what do you do when the pleasure one gets from eating and from tasting food far outweighs this irriation of being fat? i do love food - not just in the typical fat-guy's "i love to eat" way, but i really enjoy tasting things and cooking... i live for flavours in some ways; some days i just get myself through the day by imagining what i'm going to taste at the end of the day, and that motivates me.
and because flavours and food are so important to me, giving them up would be hard, and changing the flavours (ie eating wholly different things) equally so.

now, i'm not saying "its hard! i don't wanna!". what i am saying is that when eating is so core to who i am and is so very pleasurable, when it outweighs the problems of being fat, then its not just a case of 'hard', but 'what's the point?'


i should add i'm on medication for clinical depression. i often think "i'd rather die young and fat than not eat", and when i say that i'm not kidding. but the thing is i would like to lose weight, just maybe not enough.
when i was in the grip of the depression at university, food and eating was "my only pleasure left", and as such it means a lot to me.



anyway, i'll wrap up this incoherent emo whine to ask: anybody out there got any advice or been though similar problems? what can i do? somehow i have to change, but in order to do so i have to somehow (and i have no idea how to do this) get less pleasure from food, or something.... help?

oh and for the record, i have tried many diets, joining gyms, personal trainers, using gym equipment at home, all sorts of stuff, but none of it sticks not because i'm lazy (i think, kinda) but because i like food too much and i just don't care enough. how do i care more?

Firstly, YOUR NOT FAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Secondly, if you do want to lose weight I can advise yoga. It is a gentle form of excercise, teaches you breathing and how to keep calm (which is why I do it).

the only place i go to daily is my office, and walking there would take maybe a couple of days :p

Get your office moved up a few floors. Or maybe to a floor without a bathroom. There's nothing like ultimatums from your bladder and stairs to get rid of weight.

Fuck exercise, get lipo. :p

Also, have more sex.

sounds good... but what?
i guess i should find something i like doing, yes. last time i was going to the gym they instructed me to do this then that and this, and it all felt so pointless and painful.

i could take up swimming again :) only problem with that is being fat i get amazingly self-concious in a swimmingpool

yeah, don't start off doing anything that makes you feel at all uncomfortable or that feels like a chore - that'll make for a very predictable excuse to not to do it later.

you know what i find fun that you might too? punching a heavy bag. there is just pure enjoyment in that.

I was in your position an year and a half ago. I'd never done any substantial excercise up until then, and was not in the least bit conscious about what I ate. I just decided that enoughs enough, and went to the gym 6 days a week to work my ass off, one year later....boom, I'd lost 50 pounds. I'm just using myself as an example to show you that it's entirely possible. It's a matter of willpower, if your'e gonna come here and say that your desire for food outweighs your desire to get in shape, I cant help you mate because that's not the correct attitude to have. Trust me, it requires a lot of consistent hard work so you have to mentally programme yourself to make the whole process enjoyable and making excuses is not a proper way to initiate it.

First off, don't reduce your diet. It'll only be a temporary solution, and once you start eating properly again it'll come back in no time. It'll also make you lose mucsle, thats a bad thing because the more muscle you have the more calories you burn and losing fat will become a lot harder. Don't reduce but change your diet, eat an appropriate amount of calories but choose healthier options, prefferable foods that contain a lot of fibre and protein. Eat wholeweat instead of white bread/ brown rice instead of white rice. Use your imagination to find a way to make it taste good I suppose. Lotsa, fruit, vegetables and Low fat Milk help your digestive process and increase your metabolism rate.

Second, Find which type of excercise appeals to you. When it comes to weight loss, anaerobic excercise is the most effective. So jog, swim, get on a bike etc. Whatever floats your boat, just get started on it. From personal experience I would suggest jogging, takes fat off your entire body fairly rapidly (at least 1 to 2 pounds per week) and is excellent at building stamina, and generates fairly more body heat than swimming. I'd suggest running at 10 km/h for up to 5 kilometres at least. Do some anaerobic strength building activity as well, once again, good at building stamina, improves your posture, and you dont want to be left with flabby spots after having lost your target weight, strength training will prevent that effectively. Hope this helps, it'll take some time so don't get frustrated along the way if you feel that your'e not getting results fast enough. Anyway, best of luck mate.

Also, have more sex.

I wonder how many calories that would burn? I suppose it would depend on your technique and stamina, like any exercise.

I wonder how many calories that would burn? I suppose it would depend on your technique and stamina, like any exercise.

Exactly. And chances are sex is a lot more fun than most other forms of exercise.

I wonder how many calories that would burn? I suppose it would depend on your technique and stamina, like any exercise.

Vague memory of something like 2-300 calories per half-hour, depending on position.

So, say two times a week... that's a good couple of hundred calories per month!

if it's just the flavour you'd miss then just reduce the portions you cook, or if you cook too much then save the rest aside for lunch the next day. and if you are still hungry after the smaller portion drink lots of liquid with your meal.

also, i don't know what sort of things you're cooking, but if you're using cream, swap that for milk. or if you're using oil or butter for frying, swap that for light olive oil.

bulk up your food with vegetables also, rather than meat or carbohydrates. you'll still get the flavours but the bulk of your meal won't be fattening.

if you feel hungry for a snack between meals, have tea instead.

then there's the obvious thing of taking more exercise. if there's somewhere you need to go within 30mins walk then walk it, 30mins isn't so much out of your day.

those are all i can think of. they're all things i've tried myself and they've worked as long as i've kept my discipline, although i have to say the times i've lost most weight have been when i've been so distracted or lazy that i couldn't be bothered to cook or even get readymeals so didn't eat anything but toast or cereal or pasta-and-sauce for ages, but i don't think you want to be doing that.

Masticate more. That way you can taste food longer while eating less.
And eat food that has more water (or maybe drink a few glasses of water during -not before- the meal), you'll feel full longer without any extra calories.

Or you could do what the romans did at big feast, eat a meal, puke it up, eat another meal, puke it up, etc. And occionally keep something down before you go to sleep. (I'm not suggesting getting bulemic, btw. As that's a compulsive disorder and not really a choice.)Goddamnit I was beaten to this point... and there isn't even a pun about masturbation involved in the post. :(

But yes, the extra chewing and drinking water helps you to eat less, but still enjoy a nice long meal.

You enjoy swimming? Well swim then, and if you feel self concious then get a group of friends who dont care how you look to come with you.
Its also good to find more than one sport you really really enjoy, i took up trampolining (which the cubbier you are the better you usually are at it. You go round sommersaults better and spring higher).
Golf is good too, if you like it. Or football (in the park with mates is fun :D)

Basically go down to your local gym and ask what classes they have got on. Theres bound to be something that will catch your interest!

But also with the food, just do tiny incy little changes, like swapping oil for this one calorie spray. And swap cream (like in soups, not like on top of cakes) for low fat fromage fraise or creme fresh. And have skimmed milk in tea etc. Basically go round the supermarket and but the low fat versions of all the stuff you normally get.

Also, have more sex.
lol there's an idea i can get behind ;) (forgive the half-pun...)


Secondly, if you do want to lose weight I can advise yoga. It is a gentle form of excercise, teaches you breathing and how to keep calm (which is why I do it).
ooh ok, after i've lost some i'll look into yoga cos its always appealed to me :)

...your desire for food outweighs your desire to get in shape, I cant help you mate because that's not the correct attitude to have...
y'see, that's my problem. i know its the wrong attitude to have - what i guess i was really asking for in this thread was a way to change that attitude. i am aware that to lose weight i need to exercise and/or eat differently... i get it. the problem is my attitude and i have to beat/change that before i can do anything about it, or i'll just end up failing and disappointing myself again.




First off, don't reduce your diet. It'll only be a temporary solution, and once you start eating properly again it'll come back in no time. It'll also make you lose mucsle, thats a bad thing because the more muscle you have the more calories you burn and losing fat will become a lot harder.

got it :)

Don't reduce but change your diet, eat an appropriate amount of calories but choose healthier options, prefferable foods that contain a lot of fibre and protein. Eat wholeweat instead of white bread/ brown rice instead of white rice. Use your imagination to find a way to make it taste good I suppose. Lotsa, fruit, vegetables and Low fat Milk help your digestive process and increase your metabolism rate.
this is where i get totally turned off and scared.

Second, Find which type of excercise appeals to you. When it comes to weight loss, anaerobic excercise is the most effective. So jog, swim, get on a bike etc. Whatever floats your boat, just get started on it. From personal experience I would suggest jogging, takes fat off your entire body fairly rapidly (at least 1 to 2 pounds per week) and is excellent at building stamina, and generates fairly more body heat than swimming. I'd suggest running at 10 km/h for up to 5 kilometres at least. Do some anaerobic strength building activity as well, once again, good at building stamina, improves your posture, and you dont want to be left with flabby spots after having lost your target weight, strength training will prevent that effectively. Hope this helps, it'll take some time so don't get frustrated along the way if you feel that your'e not getting results fast enough. Anyway, best of luck mate.

well i'm gonna swim, cos i hate running/jogging. i'm good at it too - i used to swim for my county before i got in a car accident and ended up too unfit to train with my team again by the time i tried to return.

and thanks :)

Masticate more. That way you can taste food longer while eating less.
And eat food that has more water (or maybe drink a few glasses of water during -not before- the meal), you'll feel full longer without any extra calories.

Or you could do what the romans did at big feast, eat a meal, puke it up, eat another meal, puke it up, etc. And occionally keep something down before you go to sleep. (I'm not suggesting getting bulemic, btw. As that's a compulsive disorder and not really a choice.)

This chew lots technique dates back to the Edwardian era. The BBC is running a program called "Edwardian supersize me" which mentions this. Frankly its Baloney.
If you want to lose weight, walk more, eat less. Appreciate being hungry 'cos that feeling means you're burning off fat. Thats how I did it, and when you miss a meal, the good food you eat later tastes all the better!

This chew lots technique dates back to the Edwardian era. The BBC is running a program called "Edwardian supersize me" which mentions this. Frankly its Baloney.
If you want to lose weight, walk more, eat less. Appreciate being hungry 'cos that feeling means you're burning off fat. Thats how I did it, and when you miss a meal, the good food you eat later tastes all the better!

Its no good, i think the idea of missing a meal would horrify him about as much as it horrifies me. There are three meals in a day for a reason! (tho one of my friends does so much excercise he eats four to keep his weight up)

y'see, that's my problem. i know its the wrong attitude to have - what i guess i was really asking for in this thread was a way to change that attitude. i am aware that to lose weight i need to exercise and/or eat differently... i get it. the problem is my attitude and i have to beat/change that before i can do anything about it, or i'll just end up failing and disappointing myself again.


how about spiking all your food so it tastes ming? then you won't want to eat. or get someone to give you a smack everytime you eat something you shouldn't. can't remember what that's called. negative reinforcement or something?

the problem i have is this: what do you do when the pleasure one gets from eating and from tasting food far outweighs this irriation of being fat? i do love food - not just in the typical fat-guy's "i love to eat" way, but i really enjoy tasting things and cooking... i live for flavours in some ways; some days i just get myself through the day by imagining what i'm going to taste at the end of the day, and that motivates me.
and because flavours and food are so important to me, giving them up would be hard, and changing the flavours (ie eating wholly different things) equally so.
Don't eat different things, just reduce the size of your portions. If it helps, use smaller plates so that there isn't room for too much food.

i should add i'm on medication for clinical depression. i often think "i'd rather die young and fat than not eat", and when i say that i'm not kidding. but the thing is i would like to lose weight, just maybe not enough.
when i was in the grip of the depression at university, food and eating was "my only pleasure left", and as such it means a lot to me.
You don't have to stop eating, just control the amount you eat. It's a simple matter of energy in - energy out.

Don't stop liking food, just start restricting yourself to sensible amounts of it.

Don't eat different things, just reduce the size of your portions. If it helps, use smaller plates so that there isn't room for too much food.


You don't have to stop eating, just control the amount you eat. It's a simple matter of energy in - energy out.

Don't stop liking food, just start restricting yourself to sensible amounts of it.

Its so much easier to increase the energy out than it is to decrease the ammount of energy in. It also takes less willpower and doesnt mean you have to eat less of foods you love.

NSG, its advice time again... i'm pretty fat. i'm over 220lbs/101kg (that's what i was last time i weighed over a year ago), and my waist is over 40 (or maybe 45) inches. i'm not obese, but i am sick of being fat.
I can hear you, bro!
however....
the problem i have is this: what do you do when the pleasure one gets from eating and from tasting food far outweighs this irriation of being fat? i do love food - not just in the typical fat-guy's "i love to eat" way, but i really enjoy tasting things and cooking... i live for flavours in some ways; some days i just get myself through the day by imagining what i'm going to taste at the end of the day, and that motivates me.
I've realized the same about me some time ago.
What I've tried to establish, though, is that I really chew and taste my food instead of wolving it down. It still happens ever once in a while.
and because flavours and food are so important to me, giving them up would be hard, and changing the flavours (ie eating wholly different things) equally so.
I don't believe that's necessary.
I love chocolate and other sweets - and when I start feeling too big, I reduce my intake to an absolute minimum. Very little chocolate, very little Coke, etc.
It usually shows after only a week.
Drinking beer is the same. (Boohoohoooo!)
now, i'm not saying "its hard! i don't wanna!". what i am saying is that when eating is so core to who i am and is so very pleasurable, when it outweighs the problems of being fat, then its not just a case of 'hard', but 'what's the point?'
I probably don't have to tell you about the side-effects of being overweight.

Look at it like this: The more you do now, the less has to be done later. Maybe you should put the focus on why (Amy! Yourself!) you want to live longer and healthier. :p
i should add i'm on medication for clinical depression. i often think "i'd rather die young and fat than not eat", and when i say that i'm not kidding. but the thing is i would like to lose weight, just maybe not enough.
when i was in the grip of the depression at university, food and eating was "my only pleasure left", and as such it means a lot to me.
While I can see that giving up food (that sounds weird but I hope you know what I mean) is very hard, what I believe you need is not to overly reduce your intake, but maybe counter it with taking walks or riding the bike instead of using a car, etc.

If you can manage to go for a 30 minute walk (at noon maybe? Or after dinner) each or every other day - it would improve your situation.

Not only would you get a little exercise, but it would also put some more focus on your "outside senses" instead of putting your focus on yourself and listening to your "inner sensors".
anyway, i'll wrap up this incoherent emo whine to ask: anybody out there got any advice or been though similar problems? what can i do? somehow i have to change, but in order to do so i have to somehow (and i have no idea how to do this) get less pleasure from food, or something.... help?
Just yesterday I watched a Simpson's episode in which the family went undercover in Paris (or something, not that important).
Anyway, Homer said something towards:

"In the U.S., people regard me as fat. Here, I'm respected as a connaisseur."

It sounds like you don't have to completely change your habits and thus making it hard - try to adjust the little things which are easier to incorporate in your daily routine.

I just had an hour of therapy and we went outside and talked there while taking a walk in the countryside. That was great! And I realized how much I enjoy spending time outside. Hell, I even saw a field-mouse today and a beautiful bird I ain't never seen before.

So it's funny that you should mention this today, for similar thoughts have been on my mind for the last week...
oh and for the record, i have tried many diets, joining gyms, personal trainers, using gym equipment at home, all sorts of stuff, but none of it sticks not because i'm lazy (i think, kinda) but because i like food too much and i just don't care enough. how do i care more?
That, my friend, is the tough question. You already care enough to think about it, it's on your mind and you want to change it.

I'm sorry I have to use a Yoda quote now, but it really applies and I'm telling this myself (when I need to get my ass moving): "Do, or do not. There is no try."

Don't ponder why you should or shouldn't do some exercise. The 10, 15 minutes spent in thought are those 10, 15 minutes it takes to go for a walk, to the corner store, take a short break, a nap, etc. - things that already improve your mood and bodily well-being. ;)

Hope I could help.

Its so much easier to increase the energy out than it is to decrease the ammount of energy in. It also takes less willpower and doesnt mean you have to eat less of foods you love.

Well, from what I've heard, the trick to controlling how much you take in is to only eat when you're actually hungry and to stop when you're full. Sounds obvious, but people get fat because they keep eating after they have become full and its stretches their stomachs.

Also, food apparently tastes less impressive if you eat blindfolded, but that might be a bit messy..

NSG, its advice time again... i'm pretty fat. i'm over 220lbs/101kg (that's what i was last time i weighed over a year ago), and my waist is over 40 (or maybe 45) inches. i'm not obese, but i am sick of being fat.

however....

the problem i have is this: what do you do when the pleasure one gets from eating and from tasting food far outweighs this irriation of being fat? i do love food - not just in the typical fat-guy's "i love to eat" way, but i really enjoy tasting things and cooking... i live for flavours in some ways; some days i just get myself through the day by imagining what i'm going to taste at the end of the day, and that motivates me.
and because flavours and food are so important to me, giving them up would be hard, and changing the flavours (ie eating wholly different things) equally so.

now, i'm not saying "its hard! i don't wanna!". what i am saying is that when eating is so core to who i am and is so very pleasurable, when it outweighs the problems of being fat, then its not just a case of 'hard', but 'what's the point?'


i should add i'm on medication for clinical depression. i often think "i'd rather die young and fat than not eat", and when i say that i'm not kidding. but the thing is i would like to lose weight, just maybe not enough.
when i was in the grip of the depression at university, food and eating was "my only pleasure left", and as such it means a lot to me.



anyway, i'll wrap up this incoherent emo whine to ask: anybody out there got any advice or been though similar problems? what can i do? somehow i have to change, but in order to do so i have to somehow (and i have no idea how to do this) get less pleasure from food, or something.... help?

oh and for the record, i have tried many diets, joining gyms, personal trainers, using gym equipment at home, all sorts of stuff, but none of it sticks not because i'm lazy (i think, kinda) but because i like food too much and i just don't care enough. how do i care more?

drink a lot of water. ;)

other than that just basic stuff, you know eat less, exercise more, cut down on fat content......sneak veggies into your food, drink juice in the morning, eat breakfast.... snack on healthy food so that you can eat unhealthy food at meal time.

i'm sick of being a fatass!


I have the exact opposite problem.

-snip-

The first thing you have to do is find healthier foods that taste good (sandwiches, mixed fruits and vegetables, natural foods...). Once you find some stuff that sits well, freeze out everything else. It's difficult, but if you can hang on for a month, it'll be fine.

Of course, you could always go on a beer and pizza diet. My sister did for two weeks, and she lost twelve pounds. And keep in mind that women can't lose weight as fast as men.

Man, you can eat whatever you want. I eat whatever I want.

The deal is that I exercise a lot. And that is where I lose the calories that I get from eating.

When you do exercises regularly, you lose a lot of calories, and what is best: you dont feel as hungry anymore. In fact, I´m pretty sure most people eat less after they start exercising than before doing it.

It has many reasons: First, exercising releases a lot of hormones and enzymes in your body and mind that make you feel better. That reduces the need of eating to feel better. Second, they make you feel more relaxed and fullfiled. (unless its swimming, that really makes you hungry)

I believe in exercises so much that I really doubt how much weight someone can lose just by going in a diet. In fact, I think its almost imposible for it to happen. Your body lowers its speed and you start needing less energy to keep the same weight.

So, instead of doing less (less eating), do more (more exercises). Not only you will lose weight, you will get something you are proud off, will change fat for muscles, will increase your self-steem, and will improve your image overral.

The first thing you have to do is find healthier foods that taste good (sandwiches, mixed fruits and vegetables, natural foods...). Once you find some stuff that sits well, freeze out everything else. It's difficult, but if you can hang on for a month, it'll be fine.

Of course, you could always go on a beer and pizza diet. My sister did for two weeks, and she lost twelve pounds. And keep in mind that women can't lose weight as fast as men.Any tips for gaining (muscle) weight.

I weigh a 2/3 of what PM does (140lbs/10st)... I'm about 6'3".

... it is so unfair, gaining muscle weight is so much harder than losing fat or (especially) water weight.

It took me a term of cycling for 45 minutes everyday (up and down hills), and eating huge amounts of food for me to gain 14lbs, which I have subsequently lost again. Gah! I'm tired of being able to good impressions of skeletons.

Any tips for gaining (muscle) weight.

I weigh a 2/3 of what PM does (140lbs/10st)... I'm about 6'3".

... it is so unfair, gaining muscle weight is so much harder than losing fat or (especially) water weight.

It took me a term of cycling for 45 minutes everyday (up and down hills), and eating huge amounts of food for me to gain 14lbs, which I have subsequently lost again. Gah! I'm tired of being able to good impressions of skeletons.

Wow. I'm just under 6', and I'm 140lbs... A bit over three inches taller than me, and the same weight?

I'm ruling out eating disorders, because I've had friends with the same body type as you. Look, there's not much you can do other than buy that Weight Gain powder they make for body builders. At least be glad that you're not likely to become obese.

Any tips for gaining (muscle) weight.

Dunno about muscle, but there ain't much better than deep-fried pork pies for putting on the pounds!

And for those who want to lose weight: Stop eating deep-fried pork pies!

Dunno about muscle, but there ain't much better than deep-fried pork pies for putting on the pounds!

And for those who want to lose weight: Stop eating deep-fried pork pies!

No, deep-fried cheesecake is better for weight gain than deep-fried pork pies. Well, if the cheesecake is made with double heavy cream (which it ALWAYS should be), anyway.

Wow. I'm just under 6', and I'm 140lbs... A bit over three inches taller than me, and the same weight?

I'm ruling out eating disorders, because I've had friends with the same body type as you. Look, there's not much you can do other than buy that Weight Gain powder they make for body builders. At least be glad that you're not likely to become obese.*idea* That's probably a decent idea there... except no weight gain powder. Eww. I think I lack protein in my diet, which is essentially what weight gain power is.

Dunno about muscle, but there ain't much better than deep-fried pork pies for putting on the pounds!

And for those who want to lose weight: Stop eating deep-fried pork pies!I had a pork pie a while ago, but I didn't have any salad cream so it sucked. :(

What are your eating habits like? My friends and I were discussing this a while ago. Everyone I know with weight problems seems to eat one way, and everyone I know without weight problems seems to eat another. Fatter people have breakfast, then lunch, then dinner, because it's how they think it should be. They also seem to have them at on regular timetable. The skinny people (myself included) don't have breakfast, and only eat snacks when hungry. If you feel hungry, don't eat a full meal, eat a sandwich or something. Then have dinner only when you're tired.

It seems it amounts to less food in the end, but you don't feel like it does.

Heh, I can't remember the last time I had an actual Breakfast. I usually just inhale a pop tart or something similar. And I never eat meals at regular times. In fact, I rarely eat actual meals. :p

Then again, I still eat like a horse, and I lose weight after I eat a massive amount of food. Eh, what are you gonna do?

you gotta find an activity that sticks - exercise that is enjoyable in its own right. that is really the key. and once you have such a thing, set a schedule, so that you 'have to' do it.

Same thing for changes to your diet. If you aren't enjoying your food, you won't stay on the diet.

Don't think of it as "an exercise program" and "a diet". Think of it as changing your lifestyle altogether.

A couple of simple starters:

1. Stop eating things with sugar in them. I mean it. If you have real fruit juice, limit yourself to 1/4 liter per day - maximum. Fruit juice has a lot of sugar in it, even if they don't add any. DO NOT drink any sugar sodas. Unless you're eating plain yogurt, or yogurt explicitly made with artificial sweetener, you're putting a lot of sugar in your body.

2. If you need something to be sweet, use Splenda. It works, tastes just fine (compared to any other artificial sweetner), and many products are available with it.

3. Walk more often. If you have a car, stop driving it to work, and take public transit, and you'll walk more.

4. Turn off the TV. You don't need to watch anything on TV - it's all rot.

5. Limit your computer time. Do you really need to be watching the flames on NS?

As for other changes to your diet, always eat off of smaller plates. A lot of eating less is giving yourself the impression that you have enough food on your plate (and our parents made us plate cleaners). Smaller diameter plates will have you eating less without noticing as much.

If you MUST snack between meals, don't eat the health bars, granola snacks, or anything preprocessed. Eat a piece of fruit.

After a few weeks of not eating so much sugar, your body will not be surging into an insulin response that makes you hungry.

Remember that eating sugar makes you hungry.

What are your eating habits like? My friends and I were discussing this a while ago. Everyone I know with weight problems seems to eat one way, and everyone I know without weight problems seems to eat another. Fatter people have breakfast, then lunch, then dinner, because it's how they think it should be. They also seem to have them at on regular timetable. The skinny people (myself included) don't have breakfast, and only eat snacks when hungry. If you feel hungry, don't eat a full meal, eat a sandwich or something. Then have dinner only when you're hungry, at no set schedule.

It seems it amounts to less food in the end, but you don't feel like it does.

Like everyone said, exercise. Add some strength training into the mix. Muscle burns calories even when it's idle. More muscle means you can eat more food and not get fat.

That is wrong. If you want to lose weight, you have to take 5 meals a day, or more. Dont eat too much in every meal, but a bit every time you eat.

That way you keep a steady suply of glicosis in your bloodstream and doesnt feel as much hunger. Eating snacks isnt the deal either.

I didn't read the whole thread, but some advice was good, and some not so much.

First of all losing weight (and being healthy) is a multi-tiered kind of thing. Exercising to keep your cardiovascular system well, improving your metabolism, and getting those muscles working is a key. There is no way around it, but there are a zillion different ways to get exercise so I will leave that one up to you entirely.

Eating is the hard part, and it is something I've been dealing with over the past year. December 2006 I weighed in at 278lbs, or 126kgs. I am a thick man, and five years ago when I was at the peak of my physical conditioning I could (for example, and to brag a bit) legpress roughly 1200lbs, or 545kgs. I've got alot of bone and alot of muscle mass lying around. but I was still far too heavy and it was easy to see and to feel.

A 'straw that broke the camel's back' incident occurred and I vowed to lose weight and get back in shape. I sought out a personal trainer and have been working on it since, though I did take the last month off for personal reasons. I used a personalized form of the GI diet, which stands not for a soldier but for the glycemic index. The keys are fourfold; portion control, controlling what you eat when, eating regularly (meals every 2-4hrs, snacks in between) and staying hydrated throughout the day.

If you want to know more specifics about it just PM me Pure Metal (PM me PM), but over the course of a third of a year or so I have lost 40lbs (18kgs) in a healthy manner while having more energy, eating less sugars (I had a perfect visit to the dentist yesterday, huzzah), and still enjoying wonderful varieties of food. I love cooking like you do, and I am really considering becoming a chef if only to expand my skills and knowledge when I leap into the kitchen. Eating healthy can mean eating incredibly well, though you do have to cut out those nasty refined sugars and dripping fats, as gloriously tasty as they are.

I also recommend yoga - I took it up recently and very quickly started to feel "better". I have just been through three pretty harsh years suffering from depression, and I find that the relaxation and breathing exercises help me to feel more resilient. As you can imagine, this makes dealing with lots of things much easier and helps anytime I need to muster up some willpower. good luck :)

how do i care more?
Can I make a suggestion.

If you are larger than most, you will naturally feel less of an urge to exercise, simply because exercise is actually quite difficult when your body is built like it is. Although exercise does improve your metabolism, the effect is going to be considerably reduced if you don't have the motivation to do it regularly, and you're not going to get the motivation until it gets easier to do. On the other hand, tempering the urge to eat is similarly hard to get, simply because eating is actually quite enjoyable.

The thing to note is that when someone does enjoy doing exercise, they will do it more frequently and, as a result, they can both afford to eat more food and be able to enjoy more of it (since the guilt factor isn't there any more). So rather than trying to fight back your natural preferences in favour of a synthetic wish, let your appreciation for food drive your wish to become physically active. That way, you'll have the justification you need to cut back on your snacking now and get started on exercise (light at first, of course!), since you know that if you do and stick to it, you'll get so much more from your love of food in return, and it will get easier the further on you get.

13 years ago,I maxed out at 248 pounds. I'm pretty muscualr,but at the time,muscle was coated with a thick wet-suit layer of flab.

The first thing I did was to stop drinking all colas and iced tea from a sugary mix.

I started deliberately drinking the 8 glasses of water the recommend a day. When I was looking for soda, I drank Pelligrino instead,with a wedge of lime.

I actually felt better and lost 5 or so pounds in the first week.

I then started lifting weights again. I started really light with higher reps and focused on the correct form,then increased weights.

I'm talking-in my house with dumbells for a half hour a day. No big deal.

At the same time, I stopped eating anything white- Bread,rice,sugar,etc...
And-most importantly-Anything with High Fructose Corn Syrup in the first 10 ingredients.

I replaced those items with vegetables and lean meats. I ate a little fruit each day too,but not much as controlling blood sugar is the secret to good health & weight.
I still eat everything I like, but you wont catch me eating Pork Rinds or an entire box of Coco-puffs.

once I shed all the weight-and really felt good- I just ate sensibly. No exotic tricks, no pills,no hypnosis.

Smaller portions (We help ourselves to 3 times what we need and wolf it down so fast,we cant enjoy it)
Chewing thoroughly was another great tip someone said earlier.


Its a little tough to discipline yourself at first, but the rewards are quick and worth it. And it becomes a lifestyle that suits you fine. You'll live better and feel better. It could even help improve any mood or anxiety issues.

And it will be more fun burning the calories with Glitz.

13 years ago,I maxed out at 248 pounds. I'm pretty muscualr,but at the time,muscle was coated with a thick wet-suit layer of flab.

The first thing I did was to stop drinking all colas and iced tea from a sugary mix.

I married a diabetic.

There's no sugar in the house. Fruit juice is limited to 1 cup per day for me, and if it's sweet, it's Splenda.

I noticed then that what drives a lot of hunger is sugar.

For example, in the old days, if I ate sugary cereal for breakfast, I was ravenously hungry later. Under the new lifestyle, if I ate something like eggs for breakfast, I wasn't.

I found that sugar drives hunger like there's no tomorrow, because eating sugar provokes a STRONG insulin response - and when the sugar in your body is processed, the remaining insulin makes you HUNGRY.

My wife also has portion control down. We eat off of small dishes. It gives you the impression that you have more food, and you don't put as much on the plate because it just won't fit. Combined with not having the hunger driver, I eat less overall.

I was already working out - either by running or walking with a pack, but I'm at 175 pounds, and feel great.

I married a diabetic.

There's no sugar in the house. Fruit juice is limited to 1 cup per day for me, and if it's sweet, it's Splenda.

I noticed then that what drives a lot of hunger is sugar.

For example, in the old days, if I ate sugary cereal for breakfast, I was ravenously hungry later. Under the new lifestyle, if I ate something like eggs for breakfast, I wasn't.

I found that sugar drives hunger like there's no tomorrow, because eating sugar provokes a STRONG insulin response - and when the sugar in your body is processed, the remaining insulin makes you HUNGRY.

My wife also has portion control down. We eat off of small dishes. It gives you the impression that you have more food, and you don't put as much on the plate because it just won't fit. Combined with not having the hunger driver, I eat less overall.

I was already working out - either by running or walking with a pack, but I'm at 175 pounds, and feel great.

So- its working for you.

If I eat something like a bagel or pancakes for breakfast, I'm a shaking, clammy mess a few hours later.

My ideal breakfast is an eggwhite omelette with spinach & peppers. I'll make it with two eggs and leave out a yolk and a half-just a little for color & texture.
Maybe some bacon or ham on the side and some real whole wheat toast.

I make this for my kids and I before school. I'll often add whatever fruit we have in the house-cut up banana,strawberries,kiwi or cantelope

I feel good and I know they arent in school with nuerons misfiring because they had a bowl of Trix or a Pop Tart.

I feel good and I know they arent in school with nuerons misfiring because they had a bowl of Trix or a Pop Tart.

I resent the implications of this. I breakfasted off Pop-tarts for years, and I'd hardly say I'd been 'misfiring'. Chance are if your kids have a tendency for that, they'd do it anyways.

Guys, it's sugar, not the spawn of Satan. You can exercise those calories off same as any other.

Guys, it's sugar, not the spawn of Satan. You can exercise those calories off same as any other.

Sugar, unlike other foods, provokes a major insulin response, which, shortly makes you MORE hungry.

So it's not the same.

Sugar, unlike other foods, provokes a major insulin response, which, shortly makes you MORE hungry.

So it's not the same.

I'll keep that in mind if I ever decide to consume a bag of sugar.

And you might eat more and have to walk a few extra flights of stairs, not exactly a supertask.

Heh, I can't remember the last time I had an actual Breakfast. I usually just inhale a pop tart or something similar. And I never eat meals at regular times. In fact, I rarely eat actual meals. :p

Then again, I still eat like a horse, and I lose weight after I eat a massive amount of food. Eh, what are you gonna do?

Yup, that's my point. People who eat like that seem to be the ones who appear to be able to eat whatever they want and never gain a pound. It can't be coincidence.

Yup, that's my point. People who eat like that seem to be the ones who appear to be able to eat whatever they want and never gain a pound. It can't be coincidence.

Maybe the same stuff that has them too busy for a big meal keeps them running around?

I resent the implications of this. I breakfasted off Pop-tarts for years, and I'd hardly say I'd been 'misfiring'. Chance are if your kids have a tendency for that, they'd do it anyways.

Guys, it's sugar, not the spawn of Satan. You can exercise those calories off same as any other.

Dont resent the implications. Pop tarts are simply not a good breakfast for anyone.

yeah-its sugar,but its pervasive,its in so many things the average person doesnt realize.

And the rapid spikes and delines in blood sugar is not healthy. Its better to keep it moderate without wild fluctuations.

Fluctuations brought on by the "Fruit Filling" in a Pop-Tart is just an example.

-snip-

I love food too. What always works for me is starting an exercise program first. I also try to get all my nutrients. If I'm low on calcium I crave sweets like there's no tomorrow. If I'm low on vitamin B I eat constantly.

Get a good nutrition book. I used to have a Nutrition for Dummies (or maybe it was Idiots Guide). I can't stress enough how a balanced diet will sort everything.

The things I have cut out of my diet completely are:
fried foods- they don't even taste good now
processed flour products- like bagels, non-whole grain bread (I still eat rolls with dinner)
I cut pasta out completely for six months, now I rarely crave it.

I can say as a fellow food lover, I'm quite happy with my new diet. The stuff I used to crave just tastes like crap now. I often wonder how I could have ever eaten McDonalds and thought it was tasty.

First off, I've seen pics of you and I'd hardly describe you as fat.

Having said that, I'll go with what others here have said and advise you to find an activity that you really enjoy. It could be something as simple as walking the dog for half an hour each day. As for the food issue, just because you love to eat and cook doesn't mean that you have to do it in an unhealthy way. Remember to watch your portions, and make sure you're eating a balanced diet. There are plenty of recipes out there for healthy food that tastes great. If you want some inspiration, you might try here (http://www.cookinglight.com/cooking/). I have a subscription to that magazine, and it has some very good recipes and tips.
Best of luck to you. :)

My sister keeps her weight down simply by fidgeting. Constantly. Never stops twitching something. Trouble is i think thats one of those genetic things, cause i tried and had to constantly think about it.

Ooh, a guy at work had a good idea, he replaced his desk chair with a large excercise ball. This meant he kept moving (so as not to fall off) so didnt get backache or anything from one position all day, but also meant that he was forced to fidget and bounce, otherwise he would end up on the floor.

Dont resent the implications. Pop tarts are simply not a good breakfast for anyone.

yeah-its sugar,but its pervasive,its in so many things the average person doesnt realize.

And the rapid spikes and delines in blood sugar is not healthy. Its better to keep it moderate without wild fluctuations.

Fluctuations brought on by the "Fruit Filling" in a Pop-Tart is just an example.

I assure you, I consume ridiculous amounts of sugar, but it's not making me fat, possibly related to the fact my bedroom's on the third floor now...

Now, perhaps if we're going to start talking about diabeities and such illnesses, this is an interesting discussion...

I'm just not liking how so many posts are telling PM to cut shit straight out of his diet. What has white bread ever done to you people that you didn't let it do?

My sister keeps her weight down simply by fidgeting. Constantly. Never stops twitching something. Trouble is i think thats one of those genetic things, cause i tried and had to constantly think about it.

Ooh, a guy at work had a good idea, he replaced his desk chair with a large excercise ball. This meant he kept moving (so as not to fall off) so didnt get backache or anything from one position all day, but also meant that he was forced to fidget and bounce, otherwise he would end up on the floor.Twitching and figeting can mean you can eat as much as 50% more than an average person. The whole of my dad's family is like that. We just can't sit still. I think twitching has something to do with their being a lot of 'noise' on a person's nervous system. None of us would ever make good snipers.

And then there's figeting, it's like sub-concious movement, like tapping a desk or fiddling with your hair. You know you're doing it, but you're not thinking about doing it, but you could stop yourself doing it if you wanted, but that would just be too much effort.

Because I'm bored I calculated how many calories I've had today. 2000 already today (men are supposed to have around 2,500kcal/day), and I haven't had dinner yet, which is by far the largest meal I eat... and then I plan to go get pissed tonight. Ethanol is very energy rich. Bleh.

I also have a theory that I have an ineffcient digestive system as well.

If you cut certain things out of your diet for a long time (like 6 mos), then you don't have a crazy obsession with them.

Pasta used to be mandatory for me at least 3 days a week. I eat it maybe once every few months now. If I crave it, I eat it.

Sometimes your body just needs a hard reset.

Yeah, you can do that, but why? I mean, perhaps pasta was stretching your budget or something? I could stop drinking milk for a few months and I probably wouldn't like it afterwards, but why would I stop drinking milk?

I assure you, I consume ridiculous amounts of sugar, but it's not making me fat, possibly related to the fact my bedroom's on the third floor now...

Now, perhaps if we're going to start talking about diabeities and such illnesses, this is an interesting discussion...

I'm just not liking how so many posts are telling PM to cut shit straight out of his diet. What has white bread ever done to you people that you didn't let it do?

If you cut certain things out of your diet for a long time (like 6 mos), then you don't have a crazy obsession with them.

Pasta used to be mandatory for me at least 3 days a week. I eat it maybe once every few months now. If I crave it, I eat it.

Sometimes your body just needs a hard reset.

This chew lots technique dates back to the Edwardian era. The BBC is running a program called "Edwardian supersize me" which mentions this. Frankly its Baloney.Whether it's balony depends on what your goal with it is. I wasn't suggesting it as a weightloss technique; I was suggesting it as a way to enjoy the taste of your food without constantly replacing the bit of food in your mouth. (Simply spitting it out is another option of course; like some people do with wine: taste and spit)

Plus, bellpeppers and beef is made of win!

That's why Mexican food kicks so much ass. There's lots of beef/pepper combos in their dishes.

Yeah, you can do that, but why? I mean, perhaps pasta was stretching your budget or something? I could stop drinking milk for a few months and I probably wouldn't like it afterwards, but why would I stop drinking milk?

Well, that's just one way to go about it. In the end, it's only important that you get your essential vitamins, minerals, fats, ect. That's just they way that was easiest for me.

Plus, bellpeppers and beef is made of win!

Secondly, if you do want to lose weight I can advise yoga. It is a gentle form of excercise, teaches you breathing and how to keep calm (which is why I do it).
It's also a kick-ass workout. It doesn't feel hard while you're doing it, but at the end I'm always collapsed on the mat unable even to raise my arms.

But it's not fun, and if it's not fun it's hard to keep doing it.

It's also a kick-ass workout. It doesn't feel hard while you're doing it, but at the end I'm always collapsed on the mat unable even to raise my arms.

But it's not fun, and if it's not fun it's hard to keep doing it.

I have more fun doing Crossfit. I also enjoy walking with a pack far more than I enjoy running.

I feel I have a lot more stamina than most men half my age, and I certainly have a lot more explosive muscle power than most men, period.

My brother-in-law uses me for pacing during his triathlon workouts, and I have alwaws smoked him during workouts like a cheap cigar.

Its no good, the answer to everything is trampolining!

the answer to everything is trampolining!

this is true

this is true

If we trampoline naked...

That's why Mexican food kicks so much ass. There's lots of beef/pepper combos in their dishes.

I loves Mexican food. Especially real tamales with real lard.:fluffle:

If we trampoline naked...

But if all the bouncing is done for you, wouldn't that work against using sex as a way to burn calories?

Well, that's just one way to go about it. In the end, it's only important that you get your essential vitamins, minerals, fats, ect. That's just they way that was easiest for me.

Plus, bellpeppers and beef is made of win!

Eh, I'm probably biased. Pasta is awesome. Three or four times a week, and sometimes for breakfast if there's any left over. Also, school always has some kind of pasta on the menu. Pasta is yum.

Eh, I'm probably biased. Pasta is awesome. Three or four times a week, and sometimes for breakfast if there's any left over. Also, school always has some kind of pasta on the menu. Pasta is yum.

Everyone has their weakness. Mine's chocolate.

I will never give it up.

From my cold dead hands!

Only way you will do it is by teaching yourself discipline.

Have to be able to want to do something, be able to do it, and not do it simply by will.

Also, to be able to do something you don't have to do and don't want to do.

have you gotten enough advice yet?

heres mine

dont eat crap and get off your fat ass more often.

become a nutritional gourmet. no crappy food. focus on the best of the best. no more white sugar, white flour, high fructose corn syrup, transfats. no more deep fried food. no more pre-prepared boxed crap like hamburger helper and kraft macaroni and cheese (if you have that kind of thing in the UK). only the best pure ingredients.

if you eat on a rigid schedule, your body will stop craving food at odd times of the day. eat 3-6 meals a day, same time every day. (pick the actual number of meals and stick to it) in a week your body will be used to the schedule, DONT stray from it.

if you crave some great treat, make it the purest most expensive gourmet version. if its chocolate, go get the best 70+% cacao bar you can find. if you just have to have a croissant get a single croissant from the best french bakery in the area. never eat less than the best when it comes to treats.

swimming is a good choice of exercise. go when the other lap swimmers are there (rather than the splashers who are just there to show off how great they look mostly naked). the lappers dont care what you look like. they are too busy swimming

add in a bit of weight training. when you tone up (or bulk up) it makes even your chunky body look better. you can improve your looks amazingly in one month of weight training whereas weight loss alone will take many months. and even then you might look more flabby than studly.

dont think of it as dieting. its getting into shape. if you eat right and exercise, pretty soon you feel so good and so good about yourself that its its own reward. your natural good looks and charm are augmented by your new positive attitude toward life.

Snip

Fisrt, only and last time I will say this PM. I have met you in RL, and guess what, YOU ARE NOT FAT. Yes you are a big guy, yes you are bigger than average, yes you are bigger than the media ideal, but guess what? YOU ARE NOT FAT. Just keep remembering that. YOU ARE NOT FAT.

Well, I've lost a bit of weight lately through excercise and portion control. I've been running and doing pilates for a year and a half now, but although my body was getting a bit more muscular, I wasn't losing much weight. The reason? I was snacking like mad. So, I've now developed new snacking rules. I'm only allowed three "sweets" or "junk foods" a day (one ranging from two cookies to a bowl of icecream). To all you health nuts, that's probably still alot, but it's an improvement for me. If we have a bowl of candies lying around, I'm allowed to take a handful and put it in a seperate bowl for me, but I can't just keep going back and taking one or two at a time, because I can't draw the limit then. I also stopped going back for seconds after dinner, cut the size of my afternoon snacks, and started chewing gum to keep my mouth busy. I probably cut what I eat by a few hundred calories, and it feels so good. I no longer cram myself with junk untill I'm sick, and I've learned that 100 calorie chocolates bars can taste bloody amazing, if you go for high quality. Some of my favourite snacks now are: Thinsations, Cadbury Thins, Aero Singles, Mini Wheats, Triscuits with cheese, and frozen waffles.

I've learned that 100 calorie chocolates bars can taste bloody amazing, if you go for high quality. Some of my favourite snacks now are: Thinsations, Cadbury Thins, Aero Singles, Mini Wheats, Triscuits with cheese, and frozen waffles.

Is that why you were wondering about those chocolates with the purple and the cow?

Is that why you were wondering about those chocolates with the purple and the cow?

No, those are way more than 100 calories. They are so bad. But I love them so much, and it's been over a year since I had them, and I got this horrible craving. Goddamnit, why don't we have them in Canada?

[...]now, i'm not saying "its hard! i don't wanna!". what i am saying is that when eating is so core to who i am and is so very pleasurable, when it outweighs the problems of being fat, then its not just a case of 'hard', but 'what's the point?' [...] oh and for the record, i have tried many diets, joining gyms, personal trainers, using gym equipment at home, all sorts of stuff, but none of it sticks not because i'm lazy (i think, kinda) but because i like food too much and i just don't care enough. how do i care more?

No one else can tell you how to 'care more.' You won't care more until it comes from you, and that means you have to really *want* to make a change. You try to say that you aren't saying "it's hard, I don't wanna," but every time you spoke about your desire to lose weight you followed it up with rationalisations and excuses that you haven't already. It betrays a lack of commitment.

For my own part, I've lost 8 lbs in the last month on a meal plan program and exercise (from 197 to 189-- I wasn't obese or anything, I just wanted to lose a bit of a belly and it's going away). But the fundamentals of the changes I had to make were pretty simple. Whenever you're buying groceries, look for "low fat," "reduced sodium," "no sugar added," etc. Cut back on the sugar, the salt, and the fat as much as possible. Replace white breads and white potatoes with whole wheat breads and sweet potatoes. Drink lots of water. I hate water but I've been going through strawberry-kiwi Crystal Lite like a madman because water helps dissolve fat, among the other benefits.
Reduce your portions. Get smaller plates. Big plates tempt people to fill them, meaning they eat more. And spread out your eating over the day. Healthy breakfast, light healthy brunchtime snack, healthy lunch, light healthy afternoon snack, healthy supper, light healthy evening snack. That way you're eating throughout the day so it's keeping your appetite more satisfied so you aren't getting as hungry between meals. But the food has to be low fat this, low sodium that, etc. All the water you should be drinking will help feel your stomach full and regulate appetite, too.

And exercise, duh. Cardio (ie just getting up and walking at a brisk pace for 15 mins several times a week) will help burn fat. It'll burn even faster if you throw in weightlifting-- which is easier if you get a gym buddy to go with you who'll motivate you when you show up, and make you feel like an unreliable piece of crap when you don't keep gym dates.

Simple stuff. But again, you won't adopt them in earnest and stick with them until you *really* feel the desire to coming from yourself; no one else can 'make' you care enough to make a change, so asking is probably most likely more the fulfillment of some subconscious impulse to go through the motions, mouth the words, and ultimately do little or nothing.

NSG, its advice time again... i'm pretty fat. i'm over 220lbs/101kg (that's what i was last time i weighed over a year ago), and my waist is over 40 (or maybe 45) inches. i'm not obese, but i am sick of being fat.

however....

the problem i have is this: what do you do when the pleasure one gets from eating and from tasting food far outweighs this irriation of being fat? i do love food - not just in the typical fat-guy's "i love to eat" way, but i really enjoy tasting things and cooking... i live for flavours in some ways; some days i just get myself through the day by imagining what i'm going to taste at the end of the day, and that motivates me.
and because flavours and food are so important to me, giving them up would be hard, and changing the flavours (ie eating wholly different things) equally so.

now, i'm not saying "its hard! i don't wanna!". what i am saying is that when eating is so core to who i am and is so very pleasurable, when it outweighs the problems of being fat, then its not just a case of 'hard', but 'what's the point?'


i should add i'm on medication for clinical depression. i often think "i'd rather die young and fat than not eat", and when i say that i'm not kidding. but the thing is i would like to lose weight, just maybe not enough.
when i was in the grip of the depression at university, food and eating was "my only pleasure left", and as such it means a lot to me.



anyway, i'll wrap up this incoherent emo whine to ask: anybody out there got any advice or been though similar problems? what can i do? somehow i have to change, but in order to do so i have to somehow (and i have no idea how to do this) get less pleasure from food, or something.... help?

oh and for the record, i have tried many diets, joining gyms, personal trainers, using gym equipment at home, all sorts of stuff, but none of it sticks not because i'm lazy (i think, kinda) but because i like food too much and i just don't care enough. how do i care more?

Wait... PM got FAT?!?!

When did that happen?

P.S. Once you start physical training, it's actually quite fun. Just do it for a few days.

And you could get Glitz to just like, you know. Not talk to you until you get skinnier. Something like that.

Simple stuff. But again, you won't adopt them in earnest and stick with them until you *really* feel the desire to coming from yourself; no one else can 'make' you care enough to make a change, so asking is probably most likely more the fulfillment of some subconscious impulse to go through the motions, mouth the words, and ultimately do little or nothing.

so true!

excellent suggestions.

what i find is that there is a day that happens when you have "super willpower" that allows you to start on a diet and make the changes necessary. you are suddenly READY to do it.

i recommend that anyone wanting to lose weight start working out a plan that fits their life. start planning it today even if you arent ready to put it into effect today. too often we get to that day and we start on some stupid "grapefruit and lettuce diet" that lasts a week and we waste our superwillpower on something that cant possibly work.

if you have a good solid diet plan worked out based on sound nutrition, you can start it whenever you are ready (planning it brings that day closer). if its a plan that fits your life, you can stick with it until you have lost all the weight you need to, then modify it slightly to maintain a healthy weight and good nutrition for the rest of your life. (the older you get, the worse it is for you to eat crap every day.)

reminds everyone that I've sold my soul (http://armyjobs.mod.uk/Jobs/Home.htm)

either that or do more active stuff than posting on NSG, like posting on NSG whilst running with a laptop!

Stop being lazy.

Exercise regularly.

QFT

Moderation is key. Only eat small samples of you favourite foods. Like one of the things that I will do, for example, is take a table spoon or two of ice cream, put it in a glass, pour milk on it, and stir it. That way I get the taste, without all of the calories.

Hey, PM, I'm in the same boat. I'm between 215 and 230. I've been tired of being overweight, but I love to eat. I've recently just stopped caring. I say forget it. Eat what you want, when you want. What's the point of living if you can't eat what you truly desire? Forget losing weight if you're not in any real danger. Eat to live and live to eat.

Hey, PM, I'm in the same boat. I'm between 215 and 230. I've been tired of being overweight, but I love to eat. I've recently just stopped caring. I say forget it. Eat what you want, when you want. What's the point of living if you can't eat what you truly desire? Forget losing weight if you're not in any real danger. Eat to live and live to eat.

You guts are both still hot. Why worry until it's a problem?

Get the stomach Flu.

*throws packs of Pocky Crush at everyone who complains about their weight*
*gets winded*
*sits for a moment*
*waddles out of thread*

I've seen pictures of you. You're not fat, just a bit soft. Take more walks, alone, with Glitz or whatever friends you are with.

PM ... you're a big cuddly bear and if you change a thing, I'll smack you!

Live life for life, not for opinion.

*hugs*

Moderation is key. Only eat small samples of you favourite foods. Like one of the things that I will do, for example, is take a table spoon or two of ice cream, put it in a glass, pour milk on it, and stir it. That way I get the taste, without all of the calories.

Wow, I don't think I've ever met anybody as stupid as you. You realize that Ice cream has so many calories because of milk, do you not?

Start smoking. That's what I did, and I take to food like cancer to a prostate.

In all seriousness, you don't have to be so hard on yourself. You're fine, dog.

NSG, its advice time again... i'm pretty fat. i'm over 220lbs/101kg (that's what i was last time i weighed over a year ago), and my waist is over 40 (or maybe 45) inches. i'm not obese, but i am sick of being fat.

however....

the problem i have is this: what do you do when the pleasure one gets from eating and from tasting food far outweighs this irriation of being fat? i do love food - not just in the typical fat-guy's "i love to eat" way, but i really enjoy tasting things and cooking... i live for flavours in some ways; some days i just get myself through the day by imagining what i'm going to taste at the end of the day, and that motivates me.
and because flavours and food are so important to me, giving them up would be hard, and changing the flavours (ie eating wholly different things) equally so.

now, i'm not saying "its hard! i don't wanna!". what i am saying is that when eating is so core to who i am and is so very pleasurable, when it outweighs the problems of being fat, then its not just a case of 'hard', but 'what's the point?'


i should add i'm on medication for clinical depression. i often think "i'd rather die young and fat than not eat", and when i say that i'm not kidding. but the thing is i would like to lose weight, just maybe not enough.
when i was in the grip of the depression at university, food and eating was "my only pleasure left", and as such it means a lot to me.



anyway, i'll wrap up this incoherent emo whine to ask: anybody out there got any advice or been though similar problems? what can i do? somehow i have to change, but in order to do so i have to somehow (and i have no idea how to do this) get less pleasure from food, or something.... help?

oh and for the record, i have tried many diets, joining gyms, personal trainers, using gym equipment at home, all sorts of stuff, but none of it sticks not because i'm lazy (i think, kinda) but because i like food too much and i just don't care enough. how do i care more?

Im 253lbs rought 120kg at 6' 0''. I dont think you could possibly be fat since when I say how much I weigh people say that I dont look it. I would say that a good physical job helps, one that keeps you occupied all day like an apprenticeship or a nice laborer job.

Hey, PM, I'm in the same boat. I'm between 215 and 230. I've been tired of being overweight, but I love to eat. I've recently just stopped caring. I say forget it. Eat what you want, when you want. What's the point of living if you can't eat what you truly desire? Forget losing weight if you're not in any real danger. Eat to live and live to eat.

If that's your mindset then you DESERVE to be fat. Nothing tastes better then being skinny. Fact.

If that's your mindset then you DESERVE to be fat. Nothing tastes better then being skinny. Fact.

Tell that to cancer patients.

I'm of the opinion that there's fat and there's fat. You may be overweight, but unless you are suffering ill effects from it, or gaining weight consistently, it may be difficult for you to find motivation. Just work hard to break the habit, and try to find an excuse to walk something small, or just stand up and walk around your house, rather than zoning in front of the computer, every hour.

For me, what finally forced me to make the change was the fact that my physical function was completely impared by my obesity. I was struggling with worsening asthma, I was unable to run or bike for long, and I was getting tired quickly. That was enough to convince me that I had to start turning around on weight gain. Since then, I've been trying to cut down on meat and dairy in my diet, and to chew gum when I would normally want to eat.

If you don't want to be like me, lose weight. That might help. :p

Ive got it!

A brilliant plan!

Hire someone you know, but no closer than a casual aquaintance, to kick your ass one every three days.
This person must be in a bit better shape than you, and in a race under normal circumstances, beat you.

The terms:

For the agreed price, this person is to kick your ass, once every three days.
The beatings will be random, but never inside a building.
If you outrun, or evade the person, you dont get the whupping until the next time.

At no time will the beatings be severe, or cause permanent damage.
But they wont be any fun for you whatsoever.
No broken bones.
No weapons.
Pursuit of your ass will not exceed 20 mins.

This way, unless you want an ass kicking every three days, you'll get into better shape and learn to haul ass.
Ideally, you will be running like hell for 20 mins every three days.
Fear of an ass kicking, you see, is a wonderful motivator.

I gaurantee you will shed the pounds in weeks!

Hey, PM, I'm in the same boat. I'm between 215 and 230. I've been tired of being overweight, but I love to eat. I've recently just stopped caring. I say forget it. Eat what you want, when you want. What's the point of living if you can't eat what you truly desire? Forget losing weight if you're not in any real danger. Eat to live and live to eat.

If you're overweight, you're always in "real danger". You're at high risk of developing type two diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, high cholesterol/triglycerides, etc.....

Instead of asking yourself what the point of living is without being able to gorge yourself on unhealthy food, you should be asking yourself if life is worth living when your diabetes has blinded you, our caused you to need amputation of a digit/limb. You should ask yourself if life is worth living when your weight causes you to stroke out in your fifties and your loved ones have to change your shitty diapers because you've lost the ability to do anything but blink.

Being healthy is not difficult. It simply takes dedication. I've never understood the mindset behind being too lazy to not die a painful or early death. That's what fat people have to look forward to.

Read the Paleo Diet for Athletes, and grasp the ideas regarding portions and
timing behind The Zone diet. I know it sounds like I'm plugging products, but some people need the direction and both books give you a solid idea of exactly how to eat.

Reducing your intake is paramount. Exercise is obviously key, but hard training doesn't compensate for shitty eating habits.

I can go into more detail for you, and the creator of this thread if you'd like, in private. Getting into shape is not a chore. It simply requires self control and using the very basic functions that are built into your DNA. You dont have to get a personal trainer (though I would suggest it if you're having trouble keeping yourself in check) to start dropping weight. Breaking your portions down to five or so small meals a day and walking for thirty minutes to an hour each day will make a hell of a lot of difference.

Stay away from high fructose corn syrup, and avoid processed food. These are all easy things. There are a lot more, but as I said, I can respond further in private.

Accepting obesity is a pretty dangerous mindset.

My advice, bad mouth a big black man to his face , then you'll have to run.]
That or play Rugby.

NSG, its advice time again... i'm pretty fat. i'm over 220lbs/101kg (that's what i was last time i weighed over a year ago), and my waist is over 40 (or maybe 45) inches. i'm not obese, but i am sick of being fat.

You're 5ft 11in, and over 220lbs.

You are obese. If you get an opportunity to have your BMI taken at some point, I suggest you do so. And I'm in no way/shape/form trying to be insulting. It's just the fact of the matter. You are obese at your height and weight. You're not a prop forward on a rugby team, or a tight end in football. What I mean is, your weight is not functional. Not muscle.

however....

the problem i have is this: what do you do when the pleasure one gets from eating and from tasting food far outweighs this irriation of being fat?

Since when does eating and tasting require doing so the the point of gorging? I love food. I cook all the time because on top of my wife being able to ruin toast, I enjoy it. You're confusing your enjoyment of food the the volume at which you consume. You can continue to cook, and experience new tastes without going overboard.


i do love food - not just in the typical fat-guy's "i love to eat" way, but i really enjoy tasting things and cooking... i live for flavours in some ways; some days i just get myself through the day by imagining what i'm going to taste at the end of the day, and that motivates me.

Then you should be motivated by the concept that most athletes get to eat five to six meals in a day. You should be further motivated to know that you dont have to be an athlete to make this a healthty eating habit, and that in reality it is the optimum intake scenario that most people should follow. I'm certainly not saying it's the only way, but it does work. You just have to control the substance/volume of the food you eat at those times.


and because flavours and food are so important to me, giving them up would be hard, and changing the flavours (ie eating wholly different things) equally so.

See most of the above. As far as changing some of the things you have to eat, it's likely less than what you would imagine. You'll just have to suck it up and get over some of your food addictions, however.

now, i'm not saying "its hard! i don't wanna!". what i am saying is that when eating is so core to who i am and is so very pleasurable, when it outweighs the problems of being fat, then its not just a case of 'hard', but 'what's the point?'

Well then, unfortunately, that's exactly what you're saying. You've repeatedly said that the concept of changing your habits is more than you're willing to take on. That falls in line with the ,"It's hard, and I dont wanna," mentality.


i should add i'm on medication for clinical depression. i often think "i'd rather die young and fat than not eat", and when i say that i'm not kidding.

Read what I posted before I responded to you. You want something to be depressed about that's tangible? Keep eating badly and not taking care of yourself physically. You'll find myriad examples of things to be depressed over. And I'll note that self-image will effect your moods and your relationships quite a bit. If you're not happy with yourself physically, you're not happy with yourself emotionally, and you tend to percieve others as having the same feelings about you as you do. It'll spin you in circles until you do something about it.

but the thing is i would like to lose weight, just maybe not enough.
when i was in the grip of the depression at university, food and eating was "my only pleasure left", and as such it means a lot to me.

You're like a lot of people. You want to lose weight, but you realize it takes more work than you're comfortable providing. There really isnt anything anyone else can do to change that but you. It's a decision that's entirely personal, and nobody here will be able to push you any closer to it. As it stands now, you've already made the decision not to change. Thus....your being obese.

I suppose maybe the only thing I can say that MIGHT make a difference is this......

The longer you wait....the longer the road back to being healthy will be. The longer you wait....the more physically limited you will be when and if you try to change. The longer you wait....the more psychologically ingrained your behavior will be.


If you're over or nearing twenty five, you're hitting a milestone. That's the age when your body stops building itself up naturally in ways that protect you from yourself. It's why drinking too much may kick your ass more now than it did when you drank at eighteen, or why you cant stay up for two days in a row and only need a couple of hours of sleep to feel right as rain again.

At this point it's all you, and you cant afford to let more time pass.

anyway, i'll wrap up this incoherent emo whine to ask: anybody out there got any advice or been though similar problems? what can i do? somehow i have to change, but in order to do so i have to somehow (and i have no idea how to do this) get less pleasure from food, or something.... help?

As I said earlier, I'm willing to talk to you in private as far as details are concerned. Past that....you dont have to get less pleasure out of food. You just need to decrease the volume of intake. And if the only thing you do day to day is walk for an hour, and eat a little less....you will notice a difference. If after that you want to see a substantial difference, I can suggest some things.

oh and for the record, i have tried many diets, joining gyms, personal trainers, using gym equipment at home, all sorts of stuff, but none of it sticks not because i'm lazy (i think, kinda) but because i like food too much and i just don't care enough. how do i care more?

Strict "diets" generally dont work. They're not a realistic way of eating, and anytime you dont have access to those parameters, you'll fall back on old habits and gain more weight than you lost. The Paleo Diet/Zone Diet simply show you how to break up meals reasonably, and show you what to avoid. Processed food is terrible stuff to put in your body. Most of the things you love you can make at home. You can make your own pasta sauces from fresh ingredients, instead of buying the canned stuff with preservatives, for example.

Get used to packaging meals to take with you. Nuts and fruits in the middle of the day WILL hold you over until larger meals. It's all about timing, and what you're putting into your body.


And as far as not caring, I think I covered that. You either want to change or you dont. If you're willing to risk your health and happiness for food....*shrugs*

Did I mention that many diabetics lose their sense of taste and smell?

Seems to me this shouldnt be a difficult decision.......

Sorry if that was long winded. I'm sort of passionate about being in shape....