Over my lifetime I have tried many weight loss diets, although I rarely go for the fads. There were times when my life was clicking: I was caught up in interesting pursuits, getting joy from family and friends; life was balanced. At those times, the weight disappeared with little thought.
Although I have never been thin, I do wish that I were as thin now as when I first thought I was fat (not my original quote). Menopause hit hard in the weight department. The fat appeared in body parts that had never seen fat with no obvious change in diet or activity. Within the last year I attempted some intentional weight loss. Reading that carbohydrates should be limited to less than 100 a day to lose weight, I cut them to 30-50 grams per day. The only carbs I consumed came from fruit, vegetables, and an occasional piece of multi-grain bread. I gained three pounds in two weeks and felt horrible. My endocrinologist told me to stop.
Then I tried calorie restriction, intending to limit intake to 1200 calories per day but averaging closer to 1000 of healthy food. In the first week I gained 4.5 pounds. I then decreased to 900 calories per day and 500-700 on one day each week. After another two weeks I had lost a total of two pounds and could hardly move from fatigue. I couldn’t do this: I have a life to live!
Returning to normal eating did not results in weight gain, and I felt good. So I decided to bring it up with my medical provider. My take on the discussion was that weight loss was extremely complicated, and he would not even tackle it unless it was related to some medical issue. Hmmm.
Let me say that overall my diet (the kinds of food that a person, animal, or community habitually eats) is pretty good. I love vegetables so eat them as the bulk of my dinner. My blood is good, indicating good nutrition. Like most people I know, though, the meals get out of control occasionally, usually following extended holidays, leading to careless snacking. Which is where I am now. It is late January and I haven’t recovered from Christmas. Some added stress in life has led to self-comforting with food and wine.
So this week, my intention is to become as aware of what goes in my mouth as what comes out (Matthew 15:11). I will choose only to eat and drink that which is delicious, gives me joy, and gives me health.
At what point did you abandon weight loss diets?
