Introducing myself

[Lauren]

Hello!

This is my second time doing the diet. Ugh--how embarrassing. I did it exactly a year ago and lost 25lbs--did the whole thing religiously--refeed, etc. Then I binged my brains out ever since and gained the weight back. I'm what you might call a yo-yo dieter and have tried every diet. I gain and lose weight regularly, which I know is not healthy. My name is Lauren and I am a FOOD ADDICT. :party1: I never let my weight get too out of hand, though. I reach a certain point (usually around 150-155lbs) and I have to do something about it. My goal is to lose 25lbs again this time around, although I'm looking at this as a LIFE CHANGE because I never want to have to do this again. I'm really focusing on life after the diet this time, and changing my habits for good. I learned a lot from this diet last time--now I just need to remember what I learned and use it forever after. I'm kind of depressed to have to do this again, but I'm looking at it as my punishment for not being responsible with my body this past year. Today was my second day, and I already feel much better about myself. I was really letting myself go (kind of because I knew I'd be doing the diet again anyway), so I'm excited to start getting my energy back and lift my spirits. I can't wait to go shopping for new clothes!!! I had inspired my sister, Bronwyn, to do the diet. She just finished, having lost about 55lbs! And now she has inspired me to do it again and keep it off this time. Last year, they didn't have the forum, and that made it really hard on me--to do it by myself. I did a lot of journal writing, but it's going to be nice to get encouragement and support from you guys. You're already inspiring me, just from some past messages I've looked at. And I LOVE Shasha! Your recipes are amazing! My husband has eaten my 1PD dinners with me the last two nights--your recipes--and we LOVE THEM! I never used fresh herbs or garlic last time, but this time I'm going to take the time to add them to my meals. Boy does that make a difference!! Thanks, and it's nice meeting you all.

[SPDeRosa]

Hey Lauren! Welcome to the forums! How cool is it that you'll be able to lose the weight and then have your sister for support as you both try to stick to the set of rules for "after" the refeed! I'm trying to convince my sister to go on the program as well - after she gives birth in January. She didn't lose the baby weight from her first kid and I know she would really like to lose it after the second. So we'll see what happens once the child is born. Anyway, glad to see you on the forums! Good luck as you start back onto this diet! - Shawn

[Bronwyn]

Yay Lil' Sister!!! I'm so glad to see you here and I'm so proud of you for doing this again. I know it isn't easy but I know you can do it! You know you inspired me to do this diet because of how well it worked for you. You also are inspiring me to stick to the "Life After the Diet" rules as I've seen what happens when you don't. I'm glad we have both learned from your past and that now we will both benefit from what we've learned. You're beautiful no matter what but I'm looking forward to seeing you happy with yourself again.

[Bronwyn]

Hi Shawn,

One thing to consider with your sister is that if she breast feeds the baby she'll have to wait until afterwards to start the diet. I'm sure the Cohen consultants will tell her the same thing and will let her know when she would be able to start. I hope she will do it for herself when the time is right. That is great you are willing to support her. Your expert advice would make it easier for her than it was for you. Lauren was tremendous support for me during my 6 months on program.

[Shasha]

{hi} there Lauren, Sister to the Legend!

A very WARM WELCOME to you :bighug: It’s sooooo nice having you here!!!

If it were not for you, Bronwyn would never have reached her dream and yes, though it may be difficult, you’re back and you’re going to do this!!! And, we are all here to help you!!! …and, after you’re done with your diet, like Bronwyn and all our other smart Buddies, I want you to stay in touch on the Forum, so that we can keep an eye out for you and so you can be accountable while you establish those new healthier habbits.

It’s really fantastic when you have the support of your family!!! It makes you destined for success!!!

Okay, so you know that I’m a moderator :flirt: and as such I’ve got a few little perk’s…
{mischievious}… I’ve got the power to change your post (LOL– don’t worry I don’t go around the forum all day long and do that – I’m much too busy!) (besides, you would see edited by Shasha at the bottom with a reason) (written just in case someone reading this was feeling a tad bit phobic) – in any case… today for the first time EVER, I was really tempted to go in there and change your sentence:


My name is Lauren and I am a FOOD ADDICT.


TO

My name is Lauren and I WAS a food addict!!!

As far as I’m concerned… that’s going to be your aim – even if we have to tie a rubber band to your wrist to shoot you when you think in former ways… comfort food etc... With everyone's help, you are going to live and be who you want to be: slim, healthy and well ~ long term! Starting today, there is no reason you ever have to go back to feeling like the food is controlling you again! That is simply a sign of your hormones being out of balance. TOO MUCH insulin, TOO LITTLE serotonin.... knowledge is power and when your hormones work properly YOU WILL BE IN CONTROL AGAIN!!!


YOU CAN DO IT!!!

[happytmo]

Welcome Lauren. I think it's great that you are back. I lost a lot of weight on another diet but just gained it right back. I think there should be a thread called "Lessons Learned" Reflection back on what we could've done different. You know like, I went out to mexican food and only ate 1/2 my meal. But when I got home I finished it off. That's just an example, I have not had mexican for a while.
I really like the thread about falling off the bus or wherever it was where Sasha explained very creatively what our bodies are doing when we mess up. It totally makes sense why our body would feel yucky. I need to put that post in my car after refeed when I want to get fast food.

[Lauren]

Hey Shawn,

Wow!! You're doing AWESOME!!! Congratulations! My husband weighs about what you started at, but he's super motivated now that I'm doing this again. He couldn't do the diet because of his blood sugar levels, but he's been doing great this week. He always follows my lead, which should motivate me to stay on track too. It's easy to go nuts when he's there saying, "Let's get pizza! Let's get chocolate! Let's drink!" That's when I have trouble keeping the weight off. So after the diet this time, I'm going to limit those times to STRICT special occasions. MAYBE once a month I can have something naughty like pizza or ice cream (and ALWAYS sticking to small portions, no matter what I eat), but the rest of the time I have to STAY ON TRACK! Anyway, I'm really proud of you and hope your sister finds the motivation to do it too, when the time is right. This is the only diet I've ever done where I've actually reached my goal! It's also the most strict diet I've ever done, but I think that's why it works. You have no options to talk yourself into thinking something is on the diet. It's very clear what you can and cannot have. I love it!

-Lauren :)

[Rachinnj]

Lauren
Welcome back. This is my third day and it's super hard. Although like you said I think the strict structure is why this works so well. The old saying give me some rope and I will hang myself.
Well good luck on your journey and I hope we can be there for one another.
Rachel

[Lauren]

Thanks, Bronwyn, for being so supportive! You've definitely been key to inspiring me to do this again. I wish I'd done it with you like we originally planned, but I don't think I was mentally ready at the time. So far so good--day four and I can't believe how easy it's been to "click" my brain over back to the diet mind-set. I'm not feeling sad anymore--I'm really motivated and excited because I know what the end result will be! And I'm so excited to stick to my after-diet rules (you know how meticulous I can be!). :)

Love,
ME

[Lauren]

Shasha!!!

Your post made me want to cry! WOW! I love this forum thing!!! I was overwhelmed by the wonderful replies to my introduction--this is going to be so helpful on my journey, and I will definitely stay in touch afterwards. Last time I did the diet, I felt so alone--like I was by myself on a desert island, only there were lots of people around me who had this freedom to eat whatever they wanted, but I had to eat only this short list of food. It was very lonely, but now I don't feel alone, being able to communicate to people who know what it's like and who are "suffering" along with me. :) It's really not so bad most of the time. There's usually a few days that can be frustrating, but I think it's worth it for the amount of energy I get when I eat healthy, and the way I feel in my clothes. So amazing! Thank you so much for your words of encouragement...and for all your recipe ideas!!! Can you believe my sister?! She's so amazing! This is the only diet she's ever been able to reach her goal on as well. I'm so proud of her!!!

Lauren :)

[Lauren]

Hey happytmo!

I agree--I've learned so many lessons, but sometimes I just throw all those things out the window and BINGE. Ugh! This time I'm going to write everything down and make strict rules for myself afterwards. Your story about the Mexican food is something I've done so many times! I think this diet changes your way of thinking and puts you more in control of food, but we have to just keep remembering those feelings of control and will power forever after the diet. We can never let go of those feelings of power that we get while on this diet. It's all psychological and we do have the power. :)

[Lauren]

Hi Rachel!!

Hang in there, girl! We can do this!!! Trust me--it's so worth it!!! And it will get much easier after the first week. You're making new habits for yourself (weighing the food is a pain, but you'll get used to that too). You know how fast time flies by? This will all be over before you know it, and the fun part is you will see major changes happening in your body all the time--people will compliment you like crazy, and you just won't be able to get enough. It will get boring at some point, but it's so worth it to see it through to the end, you'll definitely make it. I know you can do it. It's all in your mind. Mind over matter! :)

Lauren :)

[Shasha]

{hi} there Everyone

Happytmo: when you’re trying to change your whole lifestyle, I do think it’s a great idea to stick things up where they can remind you and keep you motivated!!! {goodjob} It can become way too easy to go back to old life long bad habits – we’ve got to chose to eat right daily on purpose.

Lauren: I agree with you 100%, the Diet boundaries do make it very easy to follow – after you’ve completed your Re-feeding program, it is a great idea to restrict and decide up front how often you will have treats – just remember, if you do gain after a weekend, you can do 48 hour no starch IMMEDIATELY to get you back to your safety zone and bring down your insulin levels again, otherwise you’ve got a runaway train… and we do not want that to happen!

Rachel: The diet DOES become easier and easier as each new day passes you will continue to become stronger… I’m sure you are already starting to notice this!

Lauren & Bronwyn: I would soooooooooo love to see a photo of the two SLIM SISTERS TOGETHER in a couple of weeks from now!!! How about it girls? Do we have a deal?

Lauren: YES!!! Thanks to the 1st Personal Diet Forum, no DIET BUDDIE NEED EVER FEEL THAT THEY ARE IN THIS ALONE EVER AGAIN!!! {grouphug1} WE ARE ALL ONE THIS BOAT TOGETHER, FIGHTING THE WAR AGAINST FAT! ONE DAY AND ONE POUND AT A TIME :elmer:

[Bronwyn]

Great idea Shasha - I actually had a before picture that I almost posted w/Lauren in it, but figured it'd be best to let her post herself (if she wants) once she is done. (I have finally posted some pics under the Pictures - called "Before...") Lauren is absolutely gorgeous. She carries most of her weight in her bum but that is already shrinking a ton in less than a week since she's been on plan. She also had a weekend away and I'm hoping she'll share how she made it through. (I have an inside tip that said she did GREAT and stuck to plan 100%!)

[SurferGirl]

Hi girls,

Good job Lauren on making it through the weekend!

I'm so glad that you guys are talking about post diet strategies. What type of bounderies do you plan to set post diet Lauren? Bronwyn, do you have any rules you have set for yourslef to keep on track?

My mom and I were talking this weekend about how eating too much starch throws off your whole body and leaves you feeling hungry and craving more of the stuff that messed you up to begin with. If you don't control it this cycle just goes on and on and on. We were laughing that one cookie led to us being so overweight! That one damn cookie started the runaway frieght train. While this is not really true, as there were many cookies, etc. it's amazing to think how this unbalanced cycle has gone on for years without us having any idea what was causing it or how to stop it. Thank goodness for 1pd!!!!!!

[pumbza]

Hi Lauren Bronwyn & Shahsa and the rest of the DIET Buddies,
All I want to say you have joined the best DIET in the world ask ur sister or no I have it wrong let UR sister show u !!Ha Ha!!I have done many and have lost and always gained more and more and it is just crazy usually I crave food I am ill disciplined etc and the support programs of the other DIETS are non exsistant and it makes things difficult!With the quick weight loss here it also makes it easier to get rid of any extra pounds gained in some illicit excursions I mean once a person has been on diet for 84 Days or 12 weeks a couple of days will be easy!!!ANYWAY welcome and we KNOW - YOU CAN DO IT - Bronwyn is a example of that - GO SISTER's - Have a MAREVELOUS DAY and SMILE WHILE YOU LOSE WEIGHT!!!!:innocent3:

[Mei Mei]

Welcome Lauren.
I am on my second day also! I really enjoyed reading and meeting everyone yesterday. I was frustrated because I can't quite figure out how to post on this forum. I'm not very technologically minded...Hopefully I will figure it out.
Good for you coming back! Have faith, you can do it. It is wonderful to get the support from others. Hope to introduce myself to everyone as soon as I fugire this forum out...
Mei mei

[Lauren]

Hey Surfergirl, Pumbza & Mei Mei!

Nice to meet all of you! Well, last time I did the diet, all I focused on was what I was going to eat once it was over with. I planned to go to all of my favorite restaurants and get my favorite foods. I didn't even think about keeping the weight off because I knew it could lose it again on this diet. I didn't realize, however, how difficult it would be, psychologically, to start the diet again. Once I started however, a couple days into it, I felt fine with it. I was bummed out the first couple days, but now I feel AMAZING and am looking at this whole thing completely differently than last year. Now I'm looking at dieting as a permanent part of my life--not that I have to stay on something this strict forever, but I will certainly be very careful and watch what I eat from now on. I figure I'll let myself have a little fun maybe once a month or so--only for special occasions (which I have to be very specific about). Or if I travel, I can not worry to much while on vacation, but literally the day I get back I need to make that effort to go right back to my "program". I'm very meticulous and organized, and I LOVE to cook, so when I'm behaving myself, I make healthy meals at home. I just need to stick to that--even if I'm tired or don't feel like it, rather than going out. And if I do go out, I need to order healthy stuff...or order something yummy but ONLY EAT HALF OF IT. That's hard, but I'm sure with practice, it will get easier. I'm thinking about the difference in how I feel, including being proud of myself, when I leave a restaurant feeling satisfied and not over-stuffed. I also plan to cut way down on drinking. I plan to only have ONE glass of wine ONLY on special occasions, and IF it's my birthDAY (not birthweek or birthmonth), I can have two... So I'm just already making my own rules for afterwards and wrapping my brain around that. Last time, the day I finished the diet (which was the best feeling in the world!) I planned a celebration dinner at my favorite restaurant, ordered my favorite things, ate all of them, and gained five pounds overnight. AAHH! There will be no celebration dinner this time for me. Just a yummy healthy dinner at home, but I won't have to measure my portions, which is reward enough! :) The most amazing thing I learned on this diet is how little we need to be satisfied and to survive without being hungry! Of course, we're eating foods that don't trigger hunger, but still--the portions I normally eat are sometimes quadruple what I eat on this diet, so I'm really going to keep my portion sized down afterwards too...and EXERCISE! I love to exercise and just need to not get lazy with it. Thanks again for all your support, you guys! I love this forum! I just wish I had time to write as much as I'd like to. I'm not very good with this computer stuff either, Mei Mei--still trying to figure all this out. :) I know Pumbza--isn't this diet the best? It's the only one that worked for my sister and I where we both were actually able to reach our goals. I'm so happy you're making this life change for your health and your family! Good job everyone! :)

[Bronwyn]

Wow La! Your avatar is gorgeous!!! Yes folks - that is my beautiful sister there in that picture. I love it and am so glad you are here!

[pumbza]

Hi Lauren still trying to get over Bronwyn Sister Lauren is here I am in AWE !!Ha Ha!!:innocent4:My DIET after DR COHEN was meant to be exactly like you described it was really earry its what I thought exactly and I am all the way in AFRICA!!!U sunk my BOAT YOU explained that when you celebrated after the DIET and ate all you wanted to and you gained 5lbs I am shocked that it comes back so quickly!I thought that once we DIETED for more than 12 weeks it would be easy to get back on DIET quickly but it seems that is difficult I am sorry if I seem DENSE but all my GREAT ideas I had on after DR COHEN have been shattered!I did suspect that once I go back to some FORBIDDEN FOOD I may feel quite terrible because of blood sugar levels etc.I don't eat junk food at home just the portion sizes are bigger and I THOUGHT that Monday to Friday could be sensible eating and then starting Friday night I could just relax things until SUNDAY night and then get back on to healthy eating!When I travel I could live of takeaways which should happen once a month for three days and when I come back I could go on the 48 hour DIET or a proper DIET for the rest of the week so I will live and die by the scale!!( I may have this all wrong but I am new to this so some help would be appreciated!!) The problem I have is I don't like to follow rules all my life or let me say I don't want food to be MY MEDICINE all my life so I wan't to live a LIFE STYLE that is practically and realistically MANAGABLE so I don't want to just cut all food out thats bad for ONE ALTOGETHER otherwise it feels like JAIL!!!!Ha Ha!!!I await responses in anticipation have a great DAY!!!:innocent3:

[Bronwyn]

Hello Dear Pumbza,

What you describe above as your plans for post 1PD life seem to be fine to me. Be strict with yourself during the week, relax on the weekends or while travelling, and then get back to being strict again. If necessary, do the 48 hour no starch rule and get your hormones and body back into balance. That has been working for me here in post-diet life. Lauren didn't just over-do it the one dinner, she continued to eat whatever she wanted whenever she wanted (pretty much - right La?) and therefore continued to gain even after the 5 pounds. As long as you don't think you can go back to your old ways and maintain your loss you'll be fine. Keep yourself in check and if you gain a few pounds be strict with yourself, get them off before they can invite friends over to stay (as Shasha would put it - I love that) and get back on track before allowing any treats again. Don't worry. You will have to be more strict with yourself than you were pre-diet, but I don't think you need to spend any time in "jail".

[SurferGirl]

Hi Lauren and Pumbza,

Thanks so much Lauren for putting all that down for us. It is sooo helpful to hear from someone who has been there done that and learned along the way.

There are very few people in this world who maintain a healthy weight without constantly working at it (and as far as I'm concerned those people are freaks put on this planet to torture us normal folks, ha ha, Just kidding). It is hard to imagine having to be so careful with food forever, but realistically, I think we all will.

As all that extra weight comes off the benifits of healthy eating are so numerous that I'm sure they will help us with accepting this new lifestyle. While sure, I will miss eating out everyday and having so much food that I never end a meal without feeling completely full and satisfied; I will NOT miss being tired, feeling gross after too much food, being disappointed in myself for being so irresponsible with my body, feeling controlled by cravings, being too embarrassed to go out and do the things I really like to do, feeling ashamed when I run into people I haven't seen in a while, etc.

Wow that's a depressing list. But it puts things into perspective for me. I love the new confidence I'm building and the new hunger to really really LIVE my life, not just get by. Yes we are making sacrifices, but we are getting priceless returns on our hard work.

I do not want my weight to creep back like it always has before (Plus those returning pounds always bring new friends :sadeyes:) . I am trying to prepare myself in everyway possible for the life ahead of me, post Cohens. That's why I really love Lauren's advice and ideas. We just have to figure out what will work for us. We can do it.

Pumbza remember SMILE, YOU'RE Losing Weight!!!!! And as the journey continues and your body comes more and more into balance maybe the desires for those treats will decrease and the benifits you see will make it not worth it. Lauren certainly seems to believe that it is totally worth changing her lifestyle for the benifits her healthy body will give her. (And she's only got 25 extra lbs to haul around, imagine how much better we will feel when we reach our goals!) Your boat may have sunk but a happy healthy Cohen cruise ship is coming to pick you up.

[Mei Mei]

Lauren,
I really appreciate the post diet advice, even though I've just started. It is good to start training my mind for discipline after the diet, or I probably would have made the same mistake and had a food party when I made y goals. I'm really suprised that I am not hungry, I think I eat more out of anxiety, or nerves or boredom--even though I have plenty to do. These first two days are very revealing to me. I am grateful to have everyone to talk with about it also! I feel pretty good, none of the tired, or flu, or physical symptoms that I read others tell of. Most of mine is retraining. Can't wait for the physiological part to catch up.
Mei

[Mei Mei]

Bronwyn,
It is so cool that you are contibuting and cheering us oall on. I think it is good to be thinking of the end and how we will treat our bodies now, so that we can be ready for it. I've gained and lost this 10-15 pounds many times, and I am sick of it. I now know that I can't eat whatever I want, whenever I want. I'm short, and the pounds seem to show up really early, and stay far too long on me. The older we get, the harder it gets too. that's what really struck me about this diet. I am anxious to change my body indside and out. Thanks for sticking with us. (I know I'm new, but I feel like I know you guys already!) Blessings,
Mei

[Mei Mei]

Pumbza,
You have such great energy! Keep it up. It will sustain you when times are hard. It is wonderful what you've accomplished so far. You can do it, both now and after. :)
blessings,
Mei

[pumbza]

Wow Bronwyn ur sister is stunning if her picture is anything to go by Wow again!!Ha Ha!!Thanks for ur advice BRONWYN I can now plug the hole in my boat or get a lift with with COHEN CRUISE SHIP(Thanks SurferGirl thats a great one)!!Ha Ha!! Now I feel a little better and you are right one must have some control after 1pd and not go back to the OLD BAD WAYS!!!Mei Mei this forum is like playing GOLF in GOLF we are all given handicaps so the amateur can play with the PRO on level ground so the same hear no matter how new you are you can communicate on a even footing on this forum its so GREAT you don't feel intimidated and all the DIET BUDDIES motivate each other and there is such GREAT energy on this site no negativetity and no swearing and no insulting like some sites I have seen and we all have a common GOAL lose thats to lose weight and to become healthier!!!Have a GREAT DAY and we all CAN DO IT!!!:innocent3:

[Mei Mei]

Thanks, I will. Talking to you all is really helping me. And it is fun!

[MIMI]

Welcome Mei Mei, i'm MIMI Hee!! Hee!! almost the same. You will find the IPD friends are the best. Just remember YOU CAN DO IT!!!!{elmo} MIMI

[lfingers11]

Lauren,
I would like to welcome you back to 1pd. I think it is awesome that you came back here after you put on a little weight. It keeps me thinking that this is all worth it and it will work for me. Today is the start of week 3 for me and it is so hard because I don't see any change yet. I am just so grateful that I am able to come here and be reminded daily that it will work for us.
Also, it is so cool that you and your sister have this bond. I need to loose 50-55 pounds but my sister probably needs to loose at least 100. She is the only one in my family that I told I was doing this and tried to get her to do it with me. She is unmotivated at this time but hopefully (oops~when) I loose all this weight I am hoping she will do it too!! I can't wait though because I won't see my family until October and boy will they be suprised. :innocent4:
Well good luck and know we are here for you.
Pam

[Mei Mei]

Thanks, MIMI:party1:
You guys are all so awesome. I love the encouragement and friendliness of everyone. Day 2 is almost over, I know it's early, but I was up too early! I think going to bed early will help me not be tempted also. I'm more vulnerable when I am tired.
Have a great night, and blessings to all. :flirt:
Mei

[Mama Lake]

Hi, how do you get the ticker on your message posts? I am new, just started on Monday. Feeling good, doing ok sticking to the diet.

[pumbza]

Hi Mama Lake MRS PEEL is really good at explaining the "how do you get the ticker on your message posts" Welcome to the FORUM as our mantra is "YOU CAN DO IT" I wish you well and I know you will do very well and remember the first 3 days are tough but stick in there and you will get over that soon!!!Yes Mei Mei they say one must get enough sleep because when you are tired one tends to eat as you said so get lots of sleep and BLESSING to you as well and I hope YOU HAVE A GREAT SLEEP!!Pam I know how ur sister feels because she most probabally tried everything like I did and when I saw this DIET I actually bypassed this site until a friend told me about another friend loosing huge amounts of weight!When I got on to the DIET I saw how little the food was and I thought Oh OH and carried on luckily!!!:innocent4:So when ur sister sees how slim you are she will join u for sure and we will have another Bronwyn and Lauren on the FORUM that will be really COOL!!!!Ha Ha! Good luck to all have a GREAT DAY!!!Ha Ha I like that Mei Mei and MIMI YOU must be SISTERS or SISTERS in DR COHEN's DIET!!!Ha Ha!!:innocent3:

[Mei Mei]

Actually all,
I am trying out the name Mei Mei. We are adopting a baby girl from China, and I wanted to try out the name to see how it feels :) It means little sister. So...I gues we are sisters in the deit eh??? By the way,
I had a great night's sleep last night. I did weigh myself, but that was before I read everyone's advice. My husband gets home from a business trip tonight; I'll have him hide my scale. Can anyone else feel the fat burning???
Mei

[lfingers11]

How exciting that you are adopting a baby girl. We lost of first son and then had issues with each pregnancy that did result in two healthy sons. Pregnancy is definately a task here. Me and my husband are considering adoption in a couple years. I just think it is sooo wonderful that there are wonderful people out there to take these precious children in.:praying: Well, I will quit rambling now. Just wanted to let you know that I thought it was awesome.
Pam

[MIMI]

MEI Mei, I will be honored to be your sister in any capacity. Pumbza, MIMI is what my 4 grandchildren call me so that's why i used that name. Mei Mei, how excited to be adopting a child, that's awesome!!! MIMI

[sunaric]

I love your comment about the difficulties when your husband says, "Let's have pizza!". I call it a food "stampede" and my skinny, "eat anything he wants" husband sometimes causes me to "stampede" as well. I find reading this forum really helps me, though I don't do it often enough. Sunny

[pumbza]

Nice one SuNaric I love the Stampede terminology I can just imagine a herd of DR COHEN DIETERS "STAMPEDE" ing for that PIZZA believe me and wait I am just peeping around the corner to see if Shasha is around because you know the DR COHEN Police will not like what I have got to say but I bet a PIZZA is going to be really tasty after this DIET!!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:But we must eat smaller portions and remember the bigger picture and that is to maintain our weight at all times!This FORUM is what get's me through the day I try to spend any idle time on this forum to keep the motivation GOING or else I will CRACK!!!!To Mei Mei and MIMI and little Fingers I think people who adopt children are GODS little ANGEL'S you are saving a child and YOU will be Justly REWARDED and they will be a absolute BLESSING to you all!!!MiMi is such a cool name for a GRANNY but how can you be a GRANNY u are only 21!!!Ha Ha!!!MeiMei what a lovely name for a a child and that child is so lucky to have u as a MOM and u have to send us some photos sometime!!!!I have three KIDs and I love children but Unfortunately its quite expensive to raise them all the way to UNIVERSITY level here so I am satisfied with what I have they are Beutiful and Full of Nonesense KIDS But I do LOVE them so!!!Ha Ha!!:innocent3:

[Lauren]

Hey Pumbza,

I hadn't gotten a chance to reply to your note about me sinking your ship regarding post-diet reality. :) Yeah, sorry to burst your bubble, but if I save you from doing what I did, I'm glad I told you in advance. When you get your re-feed program, they will also give you guidelines to follow post-diet which are very helpful (if you follow them, which I did NOT). Another thing that would allow you to have a little more flexibility with food post-diet is if you're active. Maybe that isn't something that sounds like much fun now, but imagine when you're all skinny and full of energy like you have now, and you feel completely differently in your body when you move around. You might WANT to get movin' and exercise--even just to take nice walks or hikes. Then you'd be able to get that pizza every now and then and not feel too guilty about it. And definitely portion sizes is key. I believe we can eat what we want, as long as we only eat small portions. The junkier the food, the smaller the portions. And we should think this way for the rest of our lives. This diet is only the beginning of our new lifestyle. It's like we're in bootcamp and it's only going to get easier after this!

Oh--and of course I put up my best picture for my avatar. I don't really look like that--it was a headshot I had done for my job. I'll post some before pics when I'm done so you can see the "real" me. I'm a lot more plain than that. :)

[Bronwyn]

Lauren is being very modest. Of course she's not always made-up like that and will hair done fancy every day, but I would never call you plain my dear. Lauren is beautiful - inside and out!!

[pumbza]

Hi Lauren & Bronwyn HOW are you ALL!!Don't worry LAUREN Bronwyn Helped me with the after DIET EFFORT as well and were I dreaded GOING to GYMM because I was in MY WORDS "PLEASANTLY PLUMP" actually I was KIDDING myself I was A FAT TOAD!!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:NOW I can't wait to go TO Gymm to TRY and work on MY SIX PACK which I have been telling Shasha ABOUT!!Ha Ha!Don't worry LAUREN I think YOU are being very modest and I believe BRONWYN that YOU are Beautiful both outside and IN!!!Ha Ha!!!Anyway we wait in anticipation to see you before and AFTER PHOTO's as well we know how PROUD Bronwyn is OF YOU TOO!!Nice to have the support of such a GREAT Sister and you make a GREAT TEAM!!!Ha Ha!!!Have a Magical DAY!!:innocent3:

[Lauren]

Hey Pumbza!

You are so much fun! I can't tell you how much you brighten this forum--you are just a joy to get messages from! Well, thank you for all your compliments. :) I can't wait to post pictures of Bronwyn and I as our skinny-mini selves when I'm all done with this! I'm already feeling so much better. I'm still wearing my size 10 jeans, but I've put them in the dryer twice and they're getting really loose. I'm going to have to switch to my 8s soon. Too bad--I liked these jeans! Oh well! Adios 10s! :) Hope you're having a good week!

[Mei Mei]

Yeah for you! I am noticing a bit of a difference in the way my clothes fit, nothing drastic yet though. You will be happy to hear that I have not wieghed for two days. My son helped me out by hiding the batteries to my scale. My hubby was confused though, because he went to weigh himself, and nothing happened! He'll live :) I'm glad you are doing well, and I like the idea of mini-rewards :) How much did you lose the first time? (If I may ask) and how long did it take?
Blessings:praying:,
Mei Mei

[Lauren]

Hi Mei Mei!!

I'm so proud of you not weighing yourself! I know that's really hard. Like I said, I'm totally a scale addict too, and this is the first time EVER I've been on a diet and not checked every day to see what's happening. The only way it worked is for me not to know where the scale is, so it's out of my mind. :) You and I are on similar tracks, I think. I started on July 21st, which I think was about when you did too, right? Anyway, last time I did the diet, I lost 23lbs in 8 weeks total (refeed and all). I did the entire refeed program and lost 5lbs past my goal. So my goal last time was 134, but I got down to 129 after refeed. They said if you lose weight on refeed, that's your new goal. So maybe I'll go even lower than 129 this time! I was a size 4! And I'm tall--5'9". Who knows! :) It was a long 8 weeks because I wasn't expecting it to take so long (I was weighing myself every day and getting unrealistic expectations), but now I feel like a wimp compared to some people who do it for a really long time. I can see how the longer you're on it, the more your lifestyle would change, though. I think my sister Bronwyn had that happen with the diet. She and her husband have learned to like making healthy meals together rather than eating out so much, which is so great. And I was teasing her recently because I was babysitting my nephew at their house (this was before I started the diet this time) and there were no treats in the whole house! This was after she was done with the diet too! No ice cream--nothing, which is very different compared to before the diet! I'm so proud of them! They're the most adorable little family. :) Anyway, way to go on losing your MORE THAN 7lbs so far! Keep up the good work!!

[pumbza]

Imagine Lauren and Bronwyn Mini Thems that will make a amazing picture they will have to keep all the MEN in the NEIGHBORHOOD at BAY Just remind them that YOU have HUGE Husbands that will beat them silly if they come NEAR You all!!!Ha Ha!!I am of on saterday to GO and cut wood with a chain saw OUR Electric department have hacked down a whole lot of trees and BUSH's to make way for some new Electric Pylons and I just thought why waste the hacked down TREES and rather stock up my FIRE WOOD pile that I keep for camping rather than go and pay some one else to hack down trees and destroy the planet FURTHER!!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:I hope I will have enough ENERGY for this and its the FIRST time I am using a chain SAW so I will have to be CAREFUL!!I am having some family over in TWO WEEKS time and we love to sit outside on a cold winters night with a roaring FIRE BREWING some real strong coffee nd chatting about life in GENERAL or about camping trips done or to be done and about the FAMILY in GENERAL and catching up in WHO is WHO in the ZOO!!!Ha Ha!Its really wonderful because where I live just outside of town the STARS are very BRIGHT and the MILKY WAY is awesome and also very very quite and PEACEFUL!!!Not like YOUR hectic life style LAUREN which I know YOU SO ENJOY!!!Ha Ha!!!Sorry I don't know what let me on with babbling about the week-end and MY wood cutting expedition sorry you had to read all that!!Have a great day!!!:innocent3:

[757 flyer]

Hi Lauren,
I just started this week and am reading my way through everyone's intro's. Thanks for the wake up call; already I started thinking about the end (meals and all!). It is a life change not just till the weight is off. I needed to hear that to keep it in the FRONT of my mind as I navigate this program.
Thanks again. Have a good week
757 flyer

[Mei Mei]

Lauren,
Not weighing is going ok. I'm sure if I didn't see loss, I would get discouraged. I was having a tough time yesterday morning, feeling like, is this really working for me? So, since I couldn't weigh myself, I started trying on clothes. They are fitting much better, and some shorts that I haven't worn in a few years actually fit. I haven't braved the bikini, still quite a way to go before that, but maybe someday soon. I'll be 46 in Nov, and I'd love to look as young as I feel! Tomorr starts week 3 :) Can't beleive it!
Blessings,
Mei Mei

[pumbza]

Go Go Mei Mei & 757 flyer WE KNOW "YOU CAN DO IT" and SMILE WHILE YOU LOSE WEIGHT!!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:Mei Mei any chance of a before and after photo's of YOU in YOUR bikini!!Ha Ha! Just kidding wanted to see or think what YOUR reaction would be!!!Ha Ha!!!I know every LADIES DREAM is to get into here Bikkini us MEn have lower DREAMS YOU know like been able to TOUCH our TOES ONCE MORE!!!Ha Ha!I know YOU will Do IT Mei Mei!!!Today is week 7 for me I can't Believe how TIME has flown especially when one is having fun and ALL DIET BUDDIES here feel like OLD long LOST FRIENDS Ha Ha!Have a GREAt DAY TODAY!!!:innocent3:

[Shasha]

{hi} there Lauren & Buddies

I’m just popping in to find out how you are doing???

Personally I can’t wait to see your BEFORE and AFTER photo’s and hopefully you and Bronwyn will get together and take a nice after photo together…

I’m really pleased to hear how Bronwyn has kept unhealthy foods out of house and home :clapping3: {goodjob} Bronwyn :clapping3: WAY TO GO GIRL!!!

[Bronwyn]

Hi Shasha and thank you! I actually have let some of those nasty foods back into my house. I think it is inevitable after going without for so long. I have been hovering w/in about 5 pounds up and then back down from the 115 where I was when I finished. It is a daily reminder that I cannot ever go back to having whatever I want, whenever I want unless I want to get heavy again (which I don't and WON'T!!!)!!! I am fine w/120 but want that to be my top weight (like after Christmas holidays, etc) so am constantly working to keep that down. I do need to follow the "After Diet" rules a little better so will be focusing on that. Reality check for everyone... This truly is (I know we've said it many times) a lifestyle change. The good news is that it is very do-able and w/Cohen's formula we can all do it forever!!

Lauren is doing great, just very very busy. She just spend Thurs-Mon in New York City and managed to stay on plan 99%. I gave her a 99% only because she had to eat out a lot so wasn't able to weigh her food, but she did not deviate from the food choices or cheat at all. I am so proud of her and she is continuing to inspire me now as I have to stay this tiny so we can take our after pictures together!! Go Lauren!!!

I know she wants to post so hopefully will be able to find the time to do so soon.

[Lauren]

Hey Shasha!

Thanks for asking! Yes, as Bronwyn said, I'm very busy but still doing great on the diet. Monday was actually my four-week mark, but I was in NY and didn't have my scale. I'm sort of the opposite of some of these other buddies--I don't want to weigh myself yet because I have been eating out for six days in a row, so I'd rather wait until I've been on plan 100% for a few days. But in NY, I don't think I ever ate more than my portion size--I was very careful. In fact, I may have been eating less than because they don't serve large vegetable portions in restaurants (at least not where I was). The only deviations were: In my one-egg omelet one morning, they might have put some red pepper in it with the tomatoes, but I couldn't tell the difference between them and they were cut up so small, it was impossible to pick them out. That morning also, I didn't have enough of a vegetable portion so I ate the two baby round yellow squash on my plate, just to get a little more vegetables, even though that type of yellow squash isn't on the diet. Also, there might have been a little olive oil on things a couple of times, but every time I had a salad, I only put vinegar on it--no oil (and I mostly ate salads the whole time). Anyway, I did GREAT and passed up a lot of good food and drinking at a party where I didn't know many people. So I'm very proud of myself and had noticeably lost weight by the time I got back, so I'm so happy to feel skinnier upon my return rather than falling off and feeling fat and depressed. So I want to wait until Monday to weigh myself because I'm probably going to have to eat out again Friday. Is that a big deal to weigh at five weeks instead of four? Because I feel like I've had about a week's worth of not being on the diet 100%.

[MyMiaBody]

HI Lauren,
Wow sounds like you did amazing on your trip! It's nice to know that this diet is still doable while away from home.

I am only on day 3, and today I feel like it's going to be forever till I'm at the end of this diet.

[rbride05]

Great Job Lauren. And Bronwyn, thank you for the reality check and post Cohen diet reminders, that just because we lose weight by following this plan, doesnt mean it cant come back with uncontrolled eating habits. Absolutely must be a lifestyle change. (Hows your cute little guy doing? )

[Bronwyn]

Good morning Rbride05! My little man is doing great - so amazing, sweet, and fun. Thanks for asking. He is truly the joy of my life.

[Lauren]

Hey MyMiaBody!

Hang in there--after a week, you'll notice a big difference in how you feel in your clothes and your energy level. It's not always easy, but I know you can do it. 40lbs in 12 weeks--I totally think you can do it! You're going to do great! Yeah, the diet is doable away from home, but not ideal. And it's not very fun either, but sometimes there's just no getting around it. I'm so glad I didn't cheat on my trip because today I fit into my size 6 jeans, so I know I'm getting close and I feel great! Still missing certain foods, but I've really got my mind prepared for after the diet to not go crazy. I'm even picturing what if I was done right now and could have whatever I want--I would have more of a variety to choose from, but would still cook a healthy dinner at home and eat a small portion of it. There are plenty of occasions to eat out or eat something really naughty in life--I'm not going to create those for myself. Although I can't wait for that feeling of freedom again--it's priceless. :)

[Sexymama]

Great job on your trip Lauren!!! {wave} I'm going to Hawaii the end of September and plan to be 100% on plan! I pray I can be as strong as you!!
Julie

[Mei Mei]

Yeah Lauren! I'm noticing my pant are fitting very differently also. As far as teh post diet food, do you get recommendations or some sort of eating plan? I don't want to blow it either. I want to stay skinny forever. I feel so much better about myself. :)
Julie, I be you can get some awesome mangos in Hawaii. the fruit there is the best! Are you staying in a hotel or renting a place? If you rent and grocery shop, no trouble. If not, you'll hae to plan and be creative :) What a motivator though!
blessings,
Mary

[Lauren]

Yes, they give you "Life After the Diet" rules to follow which aren't too difficult--things like no fruit or carbs for breakfast, eat sweets within half an hour after you eat carbs (and only once a day), if you really over-do it, go 48 hours with no carbs...stuff like that. I completely ignored it when I finished the diet last time, but I plan to try to follow those rules as much as I can when I'm done, and I'm just going to be more careful in general with how much I eat portion-wise. I exercise enough that I should be able to eat flexibly, as long as I don't eat larger portions than I need, and I think it's important to keep this controlled frame of mind we're all in right now. That's the big difference between during and after the diet--that frame of mind. We learn that we can do it while on the diet, but once we're "free", it's hard to say no to certain things, especially with the holidays coming up. We just have to keep in control, which is why I'm picturing being on this diet for the rest of my life. This is phase one--the hard part--losing the weight, then it will be phase two which will be closely monitoring my weight and if I start to go up, eat on the diet for a day or a week if I have to, just to keep my weight down where I want it. It shouldn't be a big deal. I'm so happy for you that you're getting so close to your goal! I'm going to weigh myself Monday and give you all an update. :)

[Bronwyn]

Hi Sexymama!

Hawaii should be a great place to stay on plan. They have the best veggies and fruit - especially if you can find a farmer's market. Are you staying in a condo or hotel? If you have your own kitchen that will help a lot. They also have the freshest, yummiest fish there too. I'm not really a lover of fish (to eat) but there it is absolutely wonderful! You can do it!!

BTW Everyone... Lauren is looking GREAT!!! It's driving me nuts that she won't weigh in until Monday but I'm more jealous that she is so relaxed about it and at peace with herself in this diet this time around. She is doing so well and it's showing!! Go, go, go little sister!

[MyMiaBody]

Lauren,
Thanks for the words of encouragement. Yes...the feeling of freedom...that will be so very nice. I just have to remember the feeling of shopping and being able to fit into whatever outweighs the feeling of eating whatever...right?

Julie,
Ah...Hawaii! And Mangos....yum! I know when I was in Brazil the mangos there were the best!!!! I've been ruined for them ever since I've been back to the states. Have fun!

[pumbza]

Hi all I have been asked a lot aren't You excited about the weight you have lost and I cautiously say I am but foremost in my mind is ONE can lose a lot and one can gain it just as quickly back thats why I like to read lauren messages because she has been there after DR COHEN DIET and that is the BIG BIG JOB!!I am hoping that it will be as easy as checking scales every monday say and then fixing the damage but it is still a NAGGING worry because I absolutely never want to return back to my original weight or MORE and its not about negative thought but about getting into a cautious FRAME of mind knowing that it can happen if we are not cautious like a recovering ALCHOLIC we will have to be aware what we eat all our life!!It just takes a couple of bad eating days and YOUR blood chemistry will change and then the rot can set in so we must just be aware of it!!!Sorry for being a party POOPER just a THOUGHT have a GREAT DAY AND ENJOY IT!!!:innocent3:

[Lauren]

You're not a party pooper, Pumbza! It's just a reality check--it is so important that we always have this frame of mind of being in control of our food. I think you're on the right track. We don't have to be obsessed about food, just be aware that what you put in your body you will have to be responsible for. You're doing so great and I'm so happy for you! Well, the Cohen people asked me for my progress report so I went ahead and weighed myself today. You can see the results below on my updated ticker. :) I've also lost one inch from my chest, five inches from my waist, and three inches from my hips. And I'm in a size 6 now, which is AMAZING! I'm so happy!!! I'm not going to weigh myself for another week and a half and then hopefully I'll be closer to 5lbs from goal so I can request refeed. We're getting there...

Thanks for the compliments and support, Bronwyn!!! We're going to have fun at Tom Petty tonight!!!!! :)

[Nightshift]

Thanks Lauren for the insight into post diet life. Between you and Shawn with his refeed thread I can have realistic expectations about post diet life. The more information we can get the better we prepare. The board is great and your picture is inspirational. Keep on losing!!!

George

[Mei Mei]

Awesome work Lauren, and with your trip! That is fantastic! I hope to be down 15 by my 4 week, just not sure. I have lost inches though. Keep it up!
Mary

[PhyllisRis]

Pumbza...you are not a party pooper! I share those same thoughts! Glad I'm not alone....that's what makes this forum such a valuable tool!
Phyllis

[MIMI]

Pumbza, I agree with Phyllis I'm really concerned about the refeed program as well. I hope it's not too difficult, reading Shawn's refeed is a little scarry to me because i have no clue of how to follow it. Oh well, we should'nt worry about it, it probably won't be that difficult. We all have college degree's surely we can figure this out. I just want to get there. Pumbza your going to beat all of us. You are doin awesome, it's totally amazing how much weight you have lost!!!! MEN, NO FAIR, YOUR METABOLISM MUST BE AWESOME!! I'm really proud of you Pumbza, a few more weeks and you'll reach your goal, NO DOUBT. LOL :love1: MIMI

[pumbza]

Hi there ALL thanks Lauren for YOUR insight to the outside WORLD I think we are all sitting with that unknown DEMON and have all done it before namely losing weight and going right back to OLD weight and beyond!!!I also know that there is no way in the WORLD I could live on a SPARTAN DIET like I do NOW or wait let me rephrase that there is NO way I can MAKE myself consistaintly stay on a HEALTH DIET only with all the TEMPTATIONS out there etc!BUT(Before Shasha SHOTS ME DOWN in SEARING FLAMES!!) I do understand my Blood Sugar better my Seratonin (I can't SPELL) levels and MY HGH (Human Growth Hormone) much better whereas before I never knew anything about any of these subjects at all!!!That means when I make FOOD decisions I will know WHAT damage is GOING to be DONE and what I can do to rectify it and I think we will all have one GOAL in mind and that is NO MORE WILL WE EVER GO BACK TO OUR OLD WEIGHT OR MORE - NEVER EVER EVER EVER!!(With GODS HELP ONLY AND BLESSING!!).I have slowly set myself up a PLAN for the future a HOPEFULLY liveable PLAN and that is MONDAY to FRIDAY while I am at HOME working STAY on DR COHEN on Friday Lunch I may start my weekend BREAK eating with in reason what I want but keeping SUPPER to a PROTEIN and Vegtable as USUAL!!!The break then extends to SATERDAY and SUNDAY and on MONDAY hop on SCALE and CHECK GOAL WEIGHT if variance of 5KG rectify within 48Hrs!If I go on TRIP relax again from the point of view eat out trying to balance protien and Vegtables and have FRUIT on hand every day!!This will all be less stressful but I also realise the other SECRET is no starch in the Morning and NIGHT only at LUNCH and stick to drinking more than 2 litres of water and keep eating times 5hrs apart I much prefer this so I don't have to think of food all the TIME!!I think the other SECRET is balancing PROTEIN with VEGTABLES so where I use to have a steak with chips or rice or baked patatoe not even with a salad I will now order a side salad with vegtables and maybe the salad as a starter before eating the steak so that I start filling up with the healthy stuff I am sure this will make a big diffrence compared to the way I ate BEFORE!!!Wow sorry I have really gone on waffling obviously something I am passionate about OOPS!!I may be totally wrong but I feel if one can lay a foundation for future eating habits they will be much easier to follow!!!Thanks for the ENCOURAGEMENT oh and BY the way MiMi I have a new name for YOU "Lovable MiMi" Have a GREAT DAY!!!:innocent3:

[Lauren]

Wow, Pumbza!!! I think that is an EXCELLENT plan to stay on track post-diet!!! I think it's really important to set up specific rules for ourselves, because that is why this diet works so well. If we're fuzzy about our policies, it's so easy to let it go and just say "I can have this" and "I'll be good tomorrow", etc. I'm going to make specific rules for myself to follow as well, because I think that's really what we need to keep the weight off. Of course, we need to allow ourselves that special treat SOMETIMES or else we'll really lose it and binge like crazy. :) We just need a good balance of healthy foods most of the time, and treats OCCASIONALLY. I'm so happy for you doing this life change!!!

[MIMI]

I like that name Pumbza, you may continue to call me that. Hee!!! Hee!!!! LOL lovable MIMI

[pumbza]

Hi lovable MiMi and thats what YOU are we would surely never enjoy this FORUM as much if it was not for LOvable MiMi and I know YOU CAN DO IT Have a Lovable DAY!!!:innocent3:I have Got One for shawn "Prof Shawn" and Littlest Rachel and Shasha Mini ME (Got that from someone else can't remember!!Ha Ha!!)!!I am working on the other's if I insult anyone please its not meant and let me know and I will retract the nick name asap!!Ha Ha!!

[MIMI]

Pumbza, all thoes names sound cool, what is the nick name for you? Let me see :thinking::thinking: :weights2:what about Adorable Pumbza, is that to girly?? Hee!!! Hee!!! :love5: MIMI

[pumbza]

Hi lovable MiMi pumbza lite will do or Papa Bear or SEXY HUNK will do Ha Ha!!Just Kidding !!Have a SUPER day thinking of YOU all!!!:innocent3:

[Shasha]

{hi} there Lauren


WOW!!! You only have 9 pounds to go!!!
{congrats} on losing 16.2 pounds!!! :bighug:

Thank you for your openness, honesty and transparency throughout this thread!!! All of us really value your input and your experience will hopefully motivate your fellow Diet Buddies not to make similar mistakes and I know for sure it will motivate you to stay focused and to get rid of little problems when they are at the gate or the front door – never let them move in suitcase and all!

I’m so proud of you for staying in control during your travels – that takes determination!

Clearly: You’ve got what it takes to stay slim for life!!! {cheerleader}

[Shasha]

{hi} there :surf:Girl

I just wanted to commend you on your post {bighug}:


There are very few people in this world who maintain a healthy weight without constantly working at it ... realistically, I think we all will.

While sure, I will miss eating out everyday and having so much food that I never end a meal without feeling completely full and satisfied; I will NOT miss being tired, feeling gross after too much food, being disappointed in myself for being so irresponsible with my body, feeling controlled by cravings, being too embarrassed to go out and do the things I really like to do, feeling ashamed when I run into people I haven't seen in a while, etc.

Wow that's a depressing list. But it puts things into perspective for me. I love the new confidence I'm building and the new hunger to really really LIVE my life, not just get by. Yes we are making sacrifices, but we are getting priceless returns on our hard work.

Pumbza remember SMILE, YOU'RE Losing Weight!!!!! Your boat may have sunk but a happy healthy Cohen cruise ship is coming to pick you up.

I really enjoyed this!! {goodjob} Your list is what is propelling you forward… please do keep those points in mind to motivate yourself never to go there again… those days are gone for good!

[Shasha]

{hi} there Bronwyn

You promised to say and you have!!! :bighug: for giving back to life!!!

:love7: these :flower: are for you!!!

Try to always limit treats to after your starch meal – they will have minimal effect when you do this… and, it’s not funny that you need to work at this for the rest of your life – it’s normal.

As people we sometimes need to address the way we think of things… you think nothing about it to clean your face and brush your teeth, to shower & bath and put on clean clothes… no, you want to maintain your good looks! So, see your eating healthy foods and making wise choices as part of your stay in great shape and be healthy and good looking routine for life… just like caring for your teeth... Hope this helps...?

[Shasha]

{hi} there Pumbza-Lite

I really enjoyed your Golf analogy :clapping3: :


Mei Mei this forum is like playing GOLF in GOLF we are all given handicaps so the amateur can play with the PRO on level ground so the same hear no matter how new you are you can communicate on a even footing on this forum its so GREAT you don't feel intimidated and all the DIET BUDDIES motivate each other and there is such GREAT energy on this site ... we all have a common GOAL lose thats to lose weight and to become healthier!!!

FYI: Following your Re-feeding Program you CAN have your Pizza and ENJOY IT!!! :P (Remember, things are nicer when you share them... especially pizza!)

The Re-feeding Program will train your body to cope with more food once the fat is gone. Also, after Re-feeding if you gain 2 or more pounds ie 1 kg you need to do 48 hour no starch – please don’t wait for 5 kg – that is way tooooooo much!!!

When you're at goal you can open your own Pumbza's Refeeding Program and between Bronwyn, Shawn and myself... of course we're going to be there for you!!! :bighug:

[pumbza]

Hi Shahsa what a GREAT POST as Usual MY MINI ME!!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:The only thing is that FOOD is a BIG part of OUR SOCIAL life and where one can normally eat HEALTHY its the SOCIAL part of our eating that LETS us down MOST of the TIMES and this is the THING we have to CONTROL to prevent PROBLEMS!!!!I learn't something NEW from YOU Shasha I just wan't to clear it with YOU and that is if at any TIME we go UP by Two POUNDS we must then GO on the 48 HR No CARBS DIET is that CORRECT!!!IF we go beyond this can we then USE the ORIGINAL DR COHEN DIET to rectify this and then get back onto the band wagon!!!Thanks for the HELP have a GREAT DAY!!!:innocent3:

[SurferGirl]

Hi SHASHA! It's so very good to hear from you again! I know the forum has gotten gigantic and it's probably really hard to keep track of all these threads and so many people. I certainly haven't been able to keep up. I just still think you should know that anywhere you post you really impact and help us through tough spots. We are so thankful to have you around! THanks for reminding me of my post, it's been a bit since I wrote that and it's really good to be reminded of how much progress I have made. It also seems like my mind changes about the diet all the time. SOmetimes, I feel so frustrated that have so much further to go and other times I feel like the time is just flying by. It's important to remember this for life after the diet. Don't GIVE in to those yucky feelings because they will pass and then I'm so glad I stayed strong. Thanks Again Shasha!

[Lauren]

I feel the same way--some days are so hard (like the last couple, although I've been sick) and others are so easy. I'm just getting really tired of the same old foods everyday, even though I'm giving myself as much of a variety as humanly possible between the foods I can have. I've been craving EVERYTHING, but Aunt Flow is here so that has a lot to do with it. Let's just hang in there--the results are so worth it! It is getting harder for me as I get so close to being done because I'm so close, but so far... Patience--ugh!

[pumbza]

Hi there LAUREN and SurferGIRL don't worry we all see how BORING the FOOD is at times and HOW slow things are GOING but think back to HOW much YOU have lost so FAR and yOU are BOTH STARS so who cares if things GO on just that little LONGER soon YOU will laugh at HOW quick the TIME went by and the BEST part is YOUR thin little BEAUTIES!!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:Just look at the scale and see HOW GREAT YOU BOTH are and its ONLY right that sometimes YOU GIRLS sit back PUT your feet UP and feel a LITTLE down because YOU spend a LOT of TIME SUPPORTING all of US which must be a HUGE JOB on it's OWN !!!Thanks for YOUR support all the TIME and WE KNOW YOU BOTH CAN DO IT - SMILE WHILE YOU ARE LOSING WEIGHT!!!Have a LOVELY DAY!!:innocent3:

[Mei Mei]

Hey Lauren,
How are you? I'm settling in psychologically. For a while I imagined that I would be done, and it would all go quickly. Now, especially after reading everyone's insights, I want to stay on for a bit longer. :thinking: I really want to train my mind as well as get my weight lower. As Pumbza is pointing out, it really is short term in the scheme of things. I hope you are well.
Mary

[Lauren]

Hey Mary!

Good for you staying on longer. I don't think I could do that, although I wouldn't want to get too much thinner anyway. I'm finally over my cold--yesterday was the first day I wasn't sick in a week, so it was all sunshine & butterflies for me. I felt GREAT and the diet was super easy yesterday. But I'm having more hard days than easy ones, now that I'm so close to starting refeed. I'm just getting so anxious to be done. I'm sure I'll be able to start refeed sometime next week, though. My cousin just called--she and my aunt & other cousin are on their way to one of my favorite Italian restaurants RIGHT NOW. And my husband is about to leave to go meet a guy for a drink to have a meeting. If I wasn't on this diet right now, I'd so be out the door to eat with my aunt & cousins!!! Or I'd be going to the bar to drink. But no. I'm going to stay home by myself and eat my Curried Chicken Cauliflower Soup. Maybe I'll watch a Woody Allen flick. :( It's true, though--it really is a short time in the whole scheme of things, and time does fly! Everyone always talks about how fast time goes, how quickly kids grow up, etc., so this is nothing. We'll all be done before we know it and it will be behind us as just another thing we did in life. I just like the idea of looking back on it better than living through it right now. :) You shouldn't have too far to go anyway. When are you weighing yourself again? Or are you a daily weigher?

[Nightshift]

Lauren I love your line "I like the idea of looking back on it better than living through it right now". I also concur with your thoughts that the time we spend on the plan is a drop in the bucket in the grand scheme of things. I must admit though that the drop is very big or the bucket very small. Keep on losing!!

[Mei Mei]

Hi Lauren,
I just printed out my refeed guide. It is very exciting! It looks like a total of 2 weeks, which gives me a clear ending, IF I can get to my goal weight. I have stayed at this weight for a week. I'm curious, but not upset. My body is really changing. Clothes, my own clothes, even small sizes are starting to bag. My body has really changed, not just gotten smaller. I am ready to be over and head to the gym to get my muscle back though.:weights2:(Frankly with 4 kids and a very busy hubby and schedule, I just don't have the energy right now.)
I finally am starting to feel like this is my body again.
How are you doing? Are you still losing, or plateauing just before the end? Do you know what the checklist is that people were talking about? I didn't get any infor other than here is your refeed and do these days.
Let me know how you are doing, and if you have started refeed.
Mary

[Lauren]

Hey Mary!

How exciting you got your refeeding program! The checklist you're looking for--are you talking about the after-diet rules? Everything should be in there. Just read it all--it's a lot of information. Well, I weighed in today and I only lost 1.2lbs this week. :( Oh well. I'm feeling patient today, but yesterday I didn't...and maybe tomorrow I won't. :) It's been every-other-day-is-easy for me lately. And the days it's hard I'm just impatient for it to be over and to have the freedom to eat out if I want to. But it's okay--I'm so close to refeed now; I know my days are numbered. And I'm excited!

You WILL reach your goal weight! Of course you will!!! It's just a matter of time. We can't eat this little amount of food and not lose weight. Hang in there--you're doing great! And in the meantime, enjoy the feeling of your new body. I know I am! I feel amazing! Although people still aren't noticing. It's so funny--I dropped three sizes and no one notices!!! hahaha! Shows how much people pay attention to me, I guess. hahaha! Just kidding. Maybe they weren't looking at my butt. :)

I'm going to start weighing myself every day at this point. The torture got a little too difficult this last week of not knowing but knowing I'm so close. I certainly don't want to do this diet one day longer than I need to! :)

[Mei Mei]

Lauren,
They probably didn't notice because you didn't have much to lose! I have been weighing myself every day. Psychologically, it works for me. I know what you mean about every other day being easy/hard. I guess that comes with being so close and being ready to eat again. I'm glad you are doing well. Let's finish this thing!!!
Mary

[Mei Mei]

Lauren,
They probably didn't notice because you didn't have much to lose! I have been weighing myself every day. Psychologically, it works for me.

I know what you mean about every other day being easy/hard. I guess that comes with being so close and being ready to eat again. I'm glad you are doing well. Let's finish this thing!!!
Mary

[Mei Mei]

Hey Lauren,
I need some advice. I have been feeling very low energy, beyond grouchy, and hungry. I e-mailed my consultants, and they said try having two apples a day instead of one. If that doesn't work, start refeed. Here's my dilema. I am 1.4 away form goal, but as I look in the mirror, I still see fat. i should probably go down to 115 but physically, my body is pooped. I'm going to try to keep going, but I have a crazy busy life with a very big family who depends on me for everything. (maybe that is why I am so tired!) Maybe it is TOM coming, I'm kind of at a crossroads. Here's a crazy idea. Can I start back on when my hubby does it? Or should I just suck it up and lose another ----pounds until my 12 weeks is over. Thanks.
Mary

[Lauren]

DON'T QUIT NOW!!! You are so close! If you stop now (especially not doing refeed), you're going to gain weight back...and fast! So here's my suggestion: NO MORE EXERCISE FOR YOU! I really believe you overdid it the other day with the tennis in the heat, etc. It usually takes me about a week to recover after I've overdone it with exercise on this diet. Just get plenty of rest, drink tons of water, eat all your fruit, crackers, everything, two apples, whatever they say (extra vitamins), and that last 1.4lbs will fall off SOON! You are so close--seriously! Don't quit now! You'll feel so good when your husband is on the diet and you don't have to be. It would have been nice to have done it together, but it didn't work out that way. You'd have to get the blood test again and start all over...and possibly be on it during the holidays! You don't want that, do you? Hang in there, girl! You're almost there! Get as much sleep as you can while you're feeling crappy too--take a nap during the day if you can. That will help you a lot. Your body is probably holding on to everything because you tried to burn off too much at once. YOU CAN DO THIS!!! Stay with me! :)

[lfingers11]

Mary,
I totally agree with Lauren too. You are so close and you can do this!! Are you taking 2 vitamins a day? This will help tremendously if you are not. Also, if I don't have red meat once a day I am having horrible issues. Go under my progress and read my post from last week. After deciding I was probably having amenia issues and not taking my vitamin I am in a great mood again. I also wrote my consultants and they stated I could be having low blood pressure issues because I am dizzy/lightheaded. They suggested adding an apple too. I have not done this yet since the beef and vitamins are working and I feel so much better. Hang in there and you can do it. If you really need to exercise go out with your tennis buddies or your family and take a small, easy walk. I know you can do it. Hang in there and reach your goal!!
Pama

[Mei Mei]

Lauren and Pam,
Thanks for the concern and advice. I was not clear, I wouldn't dreamof quitting. I meant go straight to refeed as I am a pound away. I did get a bit more sleep last night and feel a bit better today. I'm going to go as long as I can and then start refeed. Sorry if I startled you! We've worked too hard to blow it now!!!
Mary

[Lauren]

Oh!!! Good good good. You had me worried there. :) I was thinking to myself, "Does she honestly think I'm going to say go ahead and quit and start again later?" hahaha! That wouldn't be a very good support buddy! hahaha! That makes sense, though. Well that's totally up to you. Do you think you could really handle going back on it later? It might be easier because your husband will be on it, but, in my experience, psychologically it's hard to go right back on it because, at least for a while (for me), I didn't want to look at these foods again for a long time, I was so sick of them by the time I was done. But if you think you could do it just for those last five pounds or whatever, it's up to you. Glad to know you're not thinking of quitting!!! :) And guess what! I reached my goal today!!! 128.8, so I even surpassed it! I'm so excited--it still hasn't completely sunk in. If you do hang in there just a bit more, I know that last bit will come off real quick. That's what happened to me. You're just in a plateau, it sounds like.

[lfingers11]

Lauren,
I am so happy for you on hitting your goal!! You must be so excited and feeling so great!!

Pam

[Mei Mei]

Lauren,
AWESOME!!! Are you starting to feel free? :party1:Is it bad to dream about Mexican food already???:thinking:
Best of luck. I know you will be great!
Mary

[Lauren]

No, I still feel like I'm in jail. But I can smell the fresh air and feel the sun on my face. It's like they're doing the final paperwork so I know I'll be out soon. :) hahaha! My husband ate a candy bar right next to me the other night. How cruel! I haven't smelled chocolate the whole time I've been on this diet, and I couldn't believe how amazing it smelled. And just now I sat with him at a Thai restaurant. I've never liked the food there. It's his favorite place and my least favorite place, but it smelled so incredible today. I would have eaten there with joy if I could have. Oh well! 14 1/2 more days. It won't be long now. :) You too! How are you doing???

[Lovinlife]

Congratulations, Lauren! I'm so excited that you made it. And you seem like you're doing great on refeed. Thanks for sharing the journey.
Nicole

[Debbie J]

LAUREN! Let me add my congratulations too! I've been reading up on your journey and looking forward to still staying in touch with you for advice, support on my journey, and do please tell me about your REFEED experiences as this has been an area of mystery for me, unlike the program itself! Again, so WELL DONE! WOW! and Mary too! Aren't you on refeed or are you DONE DONE DONE?

Best Debbie J

[pumbza]

Hi to Lauren and all the DIET buddies HOW are YOU all keeping!!!Lauren enjoy the smell of the chocalate and food and remember it and when YOU are done with refeed YOU can sample some of them of course it will taste so much better than it ever did because YOUR taste buds will be ALIVE and WELL and only the portion sizes will be reasonable thats all they say that when one waits for something it will really be worth it!!!Well done on getting to REFEED and I know YOU will sail through and thanks for all YOUR help but NOW YOU MUST KEEP us posted about all the details of YOUR refeed PLEASE oh PLEASE!!!Have a MAREVELOUS DAY!!!:innocent3:

[Mei Mei]

Lauren,
I'm done. Feels weird. Where are you? Almost done? Today was my first free day.
Hope all is well,
Mary

[Lauren]

Hello Mary!!!

I've been wondering about you! Sorry if you've been posting and I missed it. It's been crazy on the forum lately! So many posts, so little time. CONGRATULATIONS ON FINISHING!!!!! How do you feel? What did you weigh this morning? Below goal? Tomorrow is my last day, so tonight I get my wine & cookie with the debates & Survivor!!! It really doesn't feel like I'm on a diet anymore. Well, maybe just a little. I'm just so happy. The taste of freedom is right around the corner. Are you loving it? What are you eating? Having fun??? Did you post your after pictures yet? So many questions. :)

[LiLNightShift]

Oh my gosh! Congrats Mei Mei!

[Mei Mei]

Lauren,
Sorry I have been off. Believe me, I've been trying to get here. So I posted before dinner. Now it's after dinner. I was good all day. Just proves, I'm better off eating at a restaurant...becase, the fajita meat is right there, I know I can have it, and I did! (unmeasured!) I started out with salad, meat, green pepper and mushrooms with fajita meat--beef. I had one low carb tortilla with a tbsp of sour cream and a bit of hot sauce. But then I kept taking bites of meat. I'm full. the mango marg was ok. I used frozen instead of fresh--big difference. I ended with a peanut butter cookie. I'm full and drinking water to try to fulsh it all out.

It is a strange feeling, freedom. I know it isn't the same, but I keep thinking of prison movies where the guy finally gets out and doesn't know what to do with himself. It is crazy! Hopefully we all learned and trained ourselves well enogh that we won't "commit the same crime" if you know what I mean.

anyway. All in all, it has been an amazing experience. I feel great physically--tennis yesterday no problem, 585 calories burned! My body looks so, so, so much better in clothes. I feel like me again. The diet was hard, but so worth it. I recommend this diet to anyone who asks, many people have asked me. they are very suprised that I have lost 24 pounds, so when people say, "you don't need to lose that much," DO NOT let them convince you! I will resme exercise on Monday. I'm a little nervous, but I know exercise is the key to health, and firm skin and muscles--my next goal!
so excited for yo for tomorrow! Let me know!
Mary

[CohenInAz]

Congratulations!!!!

[LiLNightShift]

Lauren, Congrats to you!!! Freedom!!:clapping3:{wave}

[Sexymama]

Lauren and Mei Mei!!! {congrats}!!! I'm so proud of both of you! How is life after the diet going? Mei -- fajitas sound soooo good!!
I hope to hear from both of you and please keep us posted on how you are!!
Julie

[Lauren]

Hey Julie!

Thanks so much for checking in with me (us). :) I'm so sorry I haven't been around AT ALL! I still think of you guys every day and wish I could get online to chat. Anyway--just a brief update from me: After an 8-day BINGE (and I mean binge) starting day 2 after I finished the diet, I'd gained about five pounds so I ate strictly 1PD/refeed foods for about three days and consistently lost 1.5lbs per day. Since then, I've held steady at 132 until I just went out of town this last weekend, so for three days I again ate whatever I wanted--NAUGHTY things--and I only gained half a pound! So today I'm eating 1PD refeed-style to reset. Oh yeah--and I've been exercising like a maniac so I'm really toning up and feeling GREAT! I think that's helped with not gaining while I was out of town because I've got so much more muscle now and my metabolism seems really good. Anyway, I feel like I'm doing great keeping the weight in check this time--allowing myself to have fun sometimes but going back on the diet in short spurts. I love my new body and clothes! Keep up the good work! You're doing great as well!!! YOU CAN DO IT! And you'll be so happy you did!!! :)

[Sharon]

Great to hear how the program is working for you, in that you can take a little 'holiday' :munchies:and revisit the program to get you back on track. You sound like you have found your balance, they say its the only program you will need for the rest of your life. Well done Lauren, you are an inspiration. you go girl and party on :party5:

[Mei Mei]

Hey Gang!
I miss you guys! Julie, I was just about to post and ask how you are, as I haven't seen you since Hawaii--how was it?
Lauren, good to hear from you! Glad all is well. I'm excited to be meeting with a trainer Th. to reassess my body fat, get on a program, and just see what is what. I worked out once last week, but felt a little deer-in-the-headlights-ish. I have had much more energy playing tennis, and jst feel great running--so much less weight to lift!
My weight is doing well. I go between 117.5-119.5. If I know I am going to eat crazy for a meal, I jst Cohen the rest of the day. It is really working for me. My Dh started 11 days ago and has lost 12 pounds! He is pretty excited, except about the veggies.:thinking:
I haven't figured out why I can't post a new picture, I can't seem to get them small enough. Hopefully, I'll figure it out!

Sharon-Hey girl! Looks like you are working hard, and almost at your goal, how are you feeling???
Blessings to all of you,
Mary

[Sharon]

Hi Mary,
just chatted to you on my thread, and googled the clothes store you mentioned, shame they don't give you some pics. Excellent to hear about your DH, he is doing well, tell him congrats from me.
I weigh tomorrow, for week 16 and I'm still waiting on my Chloride (its been 10 days) otherwise I am great. I'm sure I have just broken down my 60kg wall.
Glad to hear you have found your balance too, it is really great to hear how you guys are doing, especially as we progress down our tickers.
A pleasure to touch base as always.