I visited my family doctor this past July and weighed in at 275 lbs. For a six-foot tall guy in his late 50s that had been starting to experience more aches, pains, and stiffness, I decided it was time for a change. I was frankly embarrassed at struggling to get up out of a chair or feeling dread when I had to climb or descend stairs. I even replaced a friend's folding chair this summer because I broke one of the arms on it trying to get out of it.
Over the past few months, I had been encouraged by several members of the 30-Day Crew who had chosen to reduce their weight and seek a healthier lifestyle. I set an initial goal to lose 60 lbs. at a rate of one pound per week. My doctor recommended that I use a phone app called Lose It! It's essentially a tool to track food choices, exercise, and progress toward a target weight goal. There’s nothing special about it other than it helps with planning and decision-making.
I’m essentially trying to replace bad lifestyle habits with good ones. I eat more veggies, chicken, fruits, and avocados and much less red meat, soft drinks, cheese, and bread. I gave up my beloved Frosty Mini Wheats and 2% milk (I drank two gallons of milk a week, believe it or not) and replaced it with either Cheerios or Grape Nuts and almond milk. I use oil and vinegar or low-fat dressing on my salads in place of regular salad dressing. I even replaced
quick oatmeal with steel cut oats. I indulge in ice cream (my weakness) a couple of times a week. I just keep my portion size reasonable and my daily calorie intake within budget.
I even picked up an inexpensive digital food scale to keep me honest on portion sizes. I eat three reasonable meals a day and usually an afternoon snack. I'm even starting to read and compare information on nutrition labels. I know that I have much room for improvement, but I finally got started.
I promised not to beat myself up if I go off the rails one day...just get back on the program the next day. It's a lifestyle...not a diet. I'm also trying to incorporate more exercise in my daily routine. To be honest, though, I struggle to make regular exercise a priority. So far, I've been walking more and sometimes taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
I'm just over two months into my new lifestyle, and I've lost 25 pounds. My mobility has already improved. I have more energy and fewer aches and pains. My Bride even says that I have stopped snoring! I have since set my target weight at 185 lbs. This is on the high side of my normal weight range, but I would be very happy with it. My weight has varied all my life, and my lifestyle decisions have often been poor. I'm in it this time for the long haul. I want to go public with my decision because I think it will help me with accountability.
It's hard to break old habits, but I want to be able to get around well and enjoy my life for a long time in my retirement. My goodness - I've got more than 20 years of razors blades to use up!!!! Everybody's different, but that's really why I got started.
That’s my story. I plan to post progress reports, successes, struggles, and things I learn along the way. I welcome any and all comments and suggestions.
So, what’s your story?

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