Diet Update

So, I started the HCG diet last Thursday, and have found it quite simple. I wanted to document it on my blog, because I am still nursing my baby - and I know that is a "touchy subject" with most HCGers.

Most people in HCG forums will say NOT to do this diet if you are still nursing a baby. I found every person who had that opinion was just voicing their opinion. None of them had done the diet while nursing. I, myself, have told people not to do the diet while nursing, because I, too, was not well informed. Then I found a lady who DID do the diet while nursing TWINS! After reading her entry, it led me to 3-4 other women who also encountered no problems.

Some fear that too many toxins will be released into the breast milk and "poison" the baby. Well, I went "sugar free" in January for 30 days, so I believe most of my toxins were released then. Also, I have been eating healthy foods, so I think my body is "cleaner" now than it was when the baby was born.

Others insist that eating 500 calories a day will not allow my body to keep up with my baby's needs. Well, it's been 3 days, and no problems yet. I drink LOTS of water and some herbal tea, and I allow myself to eat a few extra calories each day to compensate for the nursing (an extra melba toast or a few extra strawberries). I decided, especially since my baby is now eating PLENTY of solid foods, that I would give this diet a try. Believe me, if I feel it is harming my baby in any way I WILL stop!

The first 2 days you "load" yourself with high fat foods. This was a bit of a problem since I had removed most high fat "junk food" from the house. I decided to make some homemade brownies and buy a half gallon of ice cream (between my family and my brother-in-law, we finished this off in 2 days). Then I made some salmon, since that would be off limits. I ate lots of natural peanut butter - which is not junk food, but is high fat. And I gorged on one of our favorite night time snacks: chips and salsa with sour cream. I ate lots of whole milk yogurt and even had some potato chips. I think the first 2 days would have been more "fun" if I had the chance to go out and by some "real" junk food (Dove ice cream bars, fries from Five Guys, a burger from Max & Erma's, etc.) Oh well, I'll do that next time ;)

Anyway, I did go out and stock up on chicken, strawberries, spinach, onions, and Melba toast. . . mmmm ;) The 3rd day I weighed in before starting my new diet. I was 3 lbs HEAVIER from my "load" days. A bit discouraging, but I discovered this was normal. I also realized that I was still hungry after taking the drops, so I had to "up" my dosage. I've been fine since then. 

So, it is true that you are not hungry while doing this diet, but that does not mean it takes away the desire to want food. Night is the worst, because I am used to having a bowl of yogurt or some peanut butter and carrots before going to bed. Now I just drink a cup of tea.

I am trying to do this for at least 25 days (hopefully 30) before taking a break. Losing 7 lbs in the first 3 days is a good motivator, but I'm sure the weight loss will slow down. Until next time. . . :)

Another day, another diet. . .

Just kidding! I'm not really a "diet buff." I am not one of those people who will say, "I've been overweight my whole life and nothing has helped. I lose weight, but then can't seem to keep it off." Nope, that's not me. I was always in fair shape. Most anything I wore, fit me well. When I got married, I was a mere 100 lbs, and not watching calories at all!

After marriage, my food intake increased, as my hubby liked to watch TV and eat snacks in the evening. This wasn't a big deal. I gained a few pounds, but only went from a size 2 to a size 6. Looking back, I think this:

I mean, isn't that so true?!? I remember complaining how overweight I was, when, in reality, I was probably the right weight for my size and bone structure. By the way, I am "big boned" even though I am short. I don't think it would be reasonable for me to try to weigh 100 lbs again. I'll be happy to fit into a size 6!

Most of the times I have gone on a diet, they have worked wonders. After my first child, I did Weight Watchers and lost 15 lbs in a month (then ended up getting pregnant again). After my second child, I just watched what I ate, and lost most the baby weight (of course, I got pregnant again). After losing a baby, I couldn't get the weight off, so I did the lemonade diet. I lost 20 lbs in 30 days (and you know. . . I got pregnant again). I'm now afraid to diet!!! HA!

Well, I honestly need to lose weight, and this has been the hardest for me. I'm not sure if it's because I had a c-section, or because I'm "older," but my belly just won't go back to "normal!" It's very annoying! Even though I've lost 30 lbs, my gut still protrudes and it drives me crazy!!!

It's time to take some serious action. I am starting the HCG diet in the hopes that it will help "banish the belly." I've been doing a regimen of drinking a smoothie for breakfast and lunch and I try to walk 1-2 mi every morning, but that still has not made a dent in my belly. I do sit ups, crunches, squats, and other "belly busters" - but no luck.

After hearing the success stories of many of my friends, I decided I will give this diet a try. I'm hoping I can lose the weight by our anniversary (July 18th). I will try to continue exercising and walking because I don't want to just be smaller - I want to be healthier. We'll see how it goes!