Last week saw me at an appointment with a ‘Health and Well-Being Advisor.’ I am having a bit of trouble managing my weight still and am seriously lacking in motivation due to being in a bit of a low mood. Anyway, this, of course, is having a knock-on effect with my Diabetes and I am constantly getting other minor things wrong which are annoying.
Anyway, time to take things in hand and I trotted off, to be told what I already knew, that I was overweight and unhealthy. Unfortunately, things were worse than I had anticipated. I had reluctantly braved the scales that morning to see what the damaged was, and was not impressed with the figures, despite trying not to put all my weight on there and make it worse! The problem with having a big tummy us that you can’t see the display on the scales so my balancing act was not helping and I had to let loose the full load!
I was greeted by a very slim and smiley woman who assured me that we would be able to sort something out and get me into some kind of diet and exercise routine. My height and weight were measured (in metric, I had done it in feet and inches and stone as the figures were smaller), and then my BMI (body mass index), was worked out.
I had done enough of these myself on patients to know that the result was not going to be pretty and it wasn’t. Morbidly obese! Morbidly obese, Oh My God, how the hell did I let myself get into this state.
The next little treat was the hips to waist ratio. Christ, please let my hips be bigger than my waist….PLEASE! I jokingly mentioned that there was not a lot in it, and sure enough it was only 3cms. Again I joked that I had not been blessed with an hourglass figure. At least my hips were bigger than my waist…JUST!
These numbers were crunched on the computer and it was gauged on a coloured thermometer type thing. Needless to say, it shot straight up to the top which was not only red but had a sad face emoticon to add insult to injury! Well, actually that was not the only insult as there was an explanation as to each category and mine was ‘over fat.’ Over fat, How bloody rude! Kick a girl when she is down why don’t you.
She then wanted to see what my fitness levels were. What hideous torture have they got planned for me this time? I wondered. Luckily, it was just a sit to stand test to see how many I could do in 30 seconds. I actually passed this one with flying colours, having completed 15 when the average was 12. Mind you, thinking about it, who was it average for? Not some young athletic type I am sure of that!
The penultimate check was the good old body fat measure. I had to stand gripping what looked like a steering wheel device for the WiiFit, with my arms outstretched until it scanned me over and displayed my overall blubber content! Well, at least it was less than half!!!
Last but by no means least, was a questionnaire to assess mood. Well as you can imagine, it was right down there in the lowest quarter. It might have been a bit better if they had done that first, but I doubt it would have been by much.
I came home armed with charts and wheels and ‘My Fitness Pal’ app downloaded on my phone; my already low self-esteem in tatters!
Maybe this is just the kick up the arse I need to do something about it!
I need to do something like this too, but I’m a bit scared to. I know that I’m “Morbidly Obese” too, but I don’t want to be told!
About two years ago I volunteered to help at a festival type thing, and since I have some medical training, they put me in the Check Your Health” booth. I felt like such a hypocrite!
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I know what you mean Jim. I feel the same way myself.
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Why is it there are always slender, petite flawless girls telling us how pleasantly plump we are? Wouldn’t it be better to have someone in the same boat helping us with our weight issues – like they do for Alcoholics Anonymous – recovering alcoholics helping, recovering plump people helping. Makes more sense to me. I am much more likely to listen to someone who has been on the same journey and knows what it is like. Love your post!!!!!
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Thank you so much for your support. Yes it would be so much better having someone who us a ‘recovering plump person’ to help us out.
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My boys are trying to get me into the gym. They both have lost between 80-90 pounds each and look amazing. Maybe I will do that and keep a photo journal. That might be interesting to me – at least.
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Oh yes. It would be great to share your journey too 😊
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I have been thinking about this all morning – maybe me and my plump Golden Retriever can go on a weight loss journey together – Hmmm – still thinking!!!!
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Well that would benefit the pair of you I suppose 🙂 I will be here to cheer you on.
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Why is all the really yummy food fattening? The universe is against us 🙂
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It most certainly is 😦
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A good kick in the arse is exactly what I need to get going. *sigh* Maybe tomorrow.
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I know Rob. it is pretty hard going.
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Once I get into a routine, I’m fine. It’s just taking that first step.
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Yes, the motivation needs kicking into gear!
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The beginning might be hard, but once you see the first tiny effect it is so very motivating. I think the most important thing is that you really schedule your training and keep it up disciplined. Than it becomes a part of your day or week. That way I managed it to make it a healthy routine.
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I agree Erika. I am working out a programme ready for Monday 🙂
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That sounds wonderful! I wish you fun, because it is. You will see once it has become part of your day 🙂
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Thanks so much for your support Erika, it is appreciated. 🙂
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You have a strong will. Let us know about your progress. 🙂
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Thanks Erika 🙂
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🙂
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Glad to be on the same journey with you. I lost 50+ pounds a few years back and have not gained but maybe 5 pounds back. It is hard work and sheer determination! I eat lean meat, fruits, vegetables, NO bread or pasta, and have gone gluten free. It works. I walk a couple miles each day and feel fitter than I did in my 20’s. I am always around to lean on. ❤ ❤ 😀
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Thank you for your support Colleen, I know some people like you and Sally have been through a weight loss journey very successfully and it can be done, I am pretty sure that bread does not help my cause either! I know I have to do it, so am really going to make more of an effort this time. 🙂
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Yeah, the quitting smoking thing hit me, then the age thing hit me. I haven’t got off all my winter weight, and here we are approaching autumn! A first for me. Slowing metabolism is sucky! Sooo, all we can do is move more and eat less. (Although it seems like it’d be much easier to pick up a carton of ciggies and turn 20 again! lol) I’m so glad your hips are bigger than your waist, at least there’s that 🙂
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Yes I am glad that my hips are bigger than my waist despite the small difference. I think my boobs measure the same as well!!!! Yes I could do with some cigs to deal with the stress of it all!
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LOL!
but don’t, mk? 😛
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The very best of luck with whatever path you take. My stomach is bigger than my hips and reaches to my hips so I can’t even get a belt to hold my jeans up. Thank heavens for braces.
xxx Huge Hugs xxx
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Braces are very stylish David. Thanks so much for your support. Hugs back xxxx
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I use the MFP app, it’s pretty decent if you keep at it. I have been told to be realistic about goals, no more than 1/2-1 lb/week (227-454g). BMI is a bunch of crap (pardon my French), if you’re overweight it looks bad, if you’re an athlete it looks bad, not sure who it looks good for, but I’m guessing runway models. If you want to “friend” me on MFP let me know and we can exchange ID’s, but regardless the important thing is to keep at it.
There was a local pharmacy chain that ran a weight loss program that really worked for me years ago, but then I had to travel for work (to the UK) and you just can’t keep up with a diet when you’re traveling, no matter how good you do. But, the gist of the program is to vary your caloric intake so that your body doesn’t “get used” to a particular caloric count. For men the suggested calories is 2000/day, but on a diet they suggest dropping to 1500. Then, after 1 month, bump up or down by 300 (alternating) for a week, then go back onto the diet. It keeps you from getting used to a particular count. I don’t understand it, but it worked very well. The other thing was to balance the diet among carbs, fats, and proteins, you need all three for the metabolism to work properly.
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Thank you so very much for all of the info I am going to look at the MFP app now and will let you know what my ID is. I will take the advice about alternating the calorie count too as that makes sense to me. 🙂
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Good luck, and remember that beer is nothing more than liquid carbs. 😋
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Thank you! I can’t find your contact details to let you know my ID
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Thought it would be on my main site, but it’s themoderntheologian (you know what) icloud.com
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There is so much on that App to look at, I have had a couple of half=hearted attempts at it before but will have a look at all it has to offer this time. I will e mail you my ID on there
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Like anything else it takes dedication and a resolve not to be upset by setbacks. I look at my chart for 1 month and see my weight going up sometimes, then I look at it for a year and see it is going down over time.
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That is the thing. I know it is not going to be all plain sailing, and of course there will be problems along the way. 🙂
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Judy, sometimes we need that kick to get us going, and believe me, we’ll all be behind you! I love the Judwina we already have, but if we need to encourage you on a health kick, to make our Judy even better, then I’m right there!
Actually, I might have a detox diet sheet, that. I used last year Judy,if I can find it, I’ll email it to you… It’s healthy, but replacing naughty things!
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Thank you so much Ritu. I am lucky to have such a wonderful community supporting me and I appreciate you all xxx
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I think I need said kick too… The hula hooping fell flat… And I’m sat here eating a pack of rich tea fingers with the, with Lil Man right now! 😳
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It is so annoying. My hula hoop is looking balefully at me from the corner where it has been shoved! I was at work today and according to my step counter I did 8728 steps and 90 mins exercise!! Makes no difference though it seems!
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This is just it Judy!!! I am on my feet non stop at work, and at home these two kids give me no peace… Really, I should be a size 6 stick! 😜
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It makes me so mad too. We should be little twiglets!
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Mmmmm Twiglets…. Stop mentioning food lol!!!!
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Ha !!! Stop it! Luckily I do not like Twiglets! Crisps though are another matter 🙂
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I didn’t like them either until my first pregnancy, then I discovered Marmite, and once you like Marmite, well, Twiglets follow!!!
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Yes, that’s the problem with them 🙂
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😜😜😜 I can’t win!!
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If only apples and broccoli tasted like sourdough bread and chocolate. Or maybe potato chips…they have always been my weakness.
Take care of it now…menopause rears its ugly head and the metabolism will swan-dive.
I walk a lot, and pay attention to emotional eating, and my triggers…it helps. Best of luck, you can do this. 💕
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Thanks so much Van. Yes, I do comfort eat which is why I have got out of control with it. I am determined and have so much support, I am going to try my best.
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Everyone’s journey is personal. For me, weight watchers helped, and exercise, but it was a very slow loss, which in the end in the best. It has taken me two years to lose sixty pounds, and according to the BMI I am still overweight – so don’t listen to that.
When you are ready you will do what is right for you and your body.
One step at a time.
One meal at a time.
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Thanks, Mary-Anne. I know you did so well in losing that weight and it cheers me on knowing that you and others have achieved success with how much you have lost.
One meal at a time….. 🙂
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Beautifully written! Agree with everything you said. Good job on your weight loss and keep going! You are an inspiration!
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Hi Deniza and welcome. Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement. 🙂
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Struggling myself – went to the asthmas clinic last week – lost an inch in height – gained a stone since last year (Where? !! How?!!) – this rate I’ll be square, very squat ninety year old in thirty- five years. Cheer up = we’re all with you.x
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Thanks so much Judith. I am sorry you have put on weight, it is so damn sneaky, creeping up on people like that! You must be cross to have lost an inch in height as well, God knows, I am short enough as it is. I will be another squat, square 90 year old blobbing about!
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Also, for me, I found Jon Gabriel’s book – The Gabriel Method, helpful – especially the meditations to listen to at night as I fell asleep.
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Thanks Mary-Anne, will have to check it out 🙂
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Edwina, I don’t know if you follow her blog or not, but this might interest you:
http://tinyurl.com/p7jhnsq
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Yes I do follow her blog and have just seen this. Looks like it has come at the right time 🙂
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You’re a strong and determined person, Judy. You will achieve your goal. Remember to have compassion for yourself along the way. It sounds like you’ve made a good start. Thinking of you! xo
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Thank you so much Tonya, I am going to try my hardest 🙂
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You’ll succeed! We’re all here to encourage you! 🙂
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Thank you Tonya. I am lucky to have such a wonderful community. 🙂
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We all love you and wish you the best! It’s a wonderful community. 🙂
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It is. I love you all too and am privileged to be part of this fantastic community
🙂
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Personally Judy my body is my temple. It looks like someone stuck St Paul’s on the front. I doubt any of us want to look like a spire anyway. Best of luck with whatever routine you decide/stumble upon.
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Thanks Geoff. No, I don’t want to look like a spire 😁
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I was doing very well being clinical and supportive till you got your mood assessed after all those insults. I almost spit my coffee on the screen. What did they think would happen? Good luck.
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I know!!! Thanks so much Linda 🙂
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They really put you through the mill! You’ll manage this if you find a way which fits with who you are, and especially your hard going shifts at work. I’m sure you know this, but don’t think of it as a diet or weight loss plan – think of it as finding a way to live that is sustainable. The results are slower, but more likely to last. You and I must be about the same age. I think you might have read my 5k adventures in my posts – that gave me the kick up the backside I needed! I’ve lost weight for the first time in 20 years – well, not counting giving birth! And you know how damned good it feels to prance around in a pair of skinny flare jeans!!!!! 😀
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Thank you for your encouragement. Yes I need to look at this long term. Once I get settled into a routine, it will become easier I hope! You did so well losing weight and I am also looking forward to getting that feeling when I am prancing about in my skinny jeans! 🙂
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Both my doctor and my psychologist have been trying to get me to do the 5/2 diet ( where you eat ‘normally’ for 5 days and have very very little for 2. It all just depresses me further. I hate exercise. I love food. I love alcohol. And I’m sick of fighting genetics…
But i hate the way I look and feel uncomfortable. So I know I have to do something, but I just can’t find the motivation… energy… whatever it is. I’m sending you good vibes and hugs and whatever you need…
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I just found your blog and I love the episodes! Very inspirational stuff here… Wish you all the best on your journey and look forward to future episodes! Xoxo Deniza
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Thank you so much, You are very welcome here 🙂
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I haven’t been able to bend over and touch my toes since…well, a very long time ago. I know I am overweight but I always tell people that I am enjoying life. Seriously though, sometimes will power will also help. Just after NewYear I was my heaviest weight ever and boy could I feel it. I stopped eating between meals and cut down on my portion sizes. With a little will power I was able to loose just under a stone in six weeks. What I didn’t do during that time was to cut out everything I liked eating. All I did was to eat less of it. I could not see the point of if I liked eating it then not to touch it at all.
What ever you decide to do I wish you luck with it Judy. But, what ever you do please remain you and don’t let this change you. Your humour and love of life in your posts are a real pick me up for many of us.
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Thank you so much for the encouragement Hugh. I too eat too much of something as well as in between meals.Well done to you for losing a stone so quickly. I am also going to start small, but even those changes III think will make a difference. As for me changing, You have got no chance of that. I will still be the clumsy,silly, person laughing at inappropriate moments! 🙂
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Sometimes that kick helps. I have been making my own desserts so I do not eat high sugar ones and was doing well till this new pain in the neck arm and back happened. I am now struggling to cut back more on my eating as I am not able to exercise . So I get how you are feeling PLEASE KICK ME I NEED IT!!!!!
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Oh darling, those tests are the worst! You have gotta be kind to yourself. You work, take care of your family etc and it is hard to not eat on the run. I reckon walks are the best way to exercise and not too taxing on joints. We are all here, cheering you on. xxx
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Thank you so much for your encouragement and support Raphaela xx
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Be gentle. Habits and routines are hard to change. Every effort you make no matter how small IS worth it. Xxx
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Thank you so much, I am on the right road now 🙂
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Well I’m sorry that didn’t go well! I’m tend to be apple shaped as well, and it’s hard enough confronting the belly in the mirror everyday without having a slim perky nurse or doctor making weight loss suggestions!
I keep telling myself I need to quit smoking before I worry too much about my weight.
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Well I have managed to tackle the smoking, but the weight issue got worse! I am determined to overcome it though, 🙂
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This is me!
Judy E Martin
Hello, and thanks for stopping by. I am Judy, in my (very) early fifties and decided that life definitely gets more interesting as it goes on! I am a wife and a mum and have just finished University as a Registered Nurse, after having worked as an Associate Practitioner in the NHS. I am also a poet and the author of my debut book, 'Rhymes of the Times.' I love to laugh, and I love rhyming words too, so I joined the two together, and my book was born. I am currently working on another book in the series also. I am a prolific blogger and enjoy writing funny stories, anecdotes, and anything really that takes my fancy.
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