Dr. Bernstein Diet - Happenings and Updates

A hairy situation - Part II

2012-01-19T17:12:00.000-08:00

Okay - I've been nervous about the thinning hair experience I had in my last major go-round. So, I've pulled out the NIOXIN and have started using it again.

I've been feeling a slight thinning texture to my hair. After one-week though, this stuff seems to be combating the problem and helping add volume and thickness to my hair.

Is it stimulating hair growth? I'm not sure - but hopefully it's staving off hair loss. That would not be good...


No - this is not me, but is a Nioxin client.

I learned about this product from my hairdresser who was also a Bernstein client years ago and recommended Nioxin. She swears by it. Little did I know that rapid weight loss causes hair thinning. According to the Nioxin website (see http://nioxin.com/en-US/the-causes-and-the-facts-page.aspx?id=236)

"What you eat can play a significant role in hair thinning. A high consumption of animal fats, rapid weight loss and liquid protein diets can result in a lack of amino acids, biotin, iron, protein and zinc — all of which are essential for healthy-looking hair."

There are many other factors that can contribute to thinning hair, but hey, a 20lb per month drop is an inevitable contributor.

This stuff is not cheap though - the Scalp Therapy, Cleanser and Scalp Treatment (the triumvirate of power for follicle stimulation) is around $50 (if memory serves.)

The triumverate of power

It's a pleasant concoction though - tea tree oil, peppermint and other "stuff" makes it alright. It's not too medicinal, but I do ad a little bit of leave-in conditioner to soften my hair. Otherwise my hair feels a little like straw.

So, if you wish to help stave off any rapid hair loss along with your rapid weight loss, I highly recommend this product.

And sorry to the blessed soul who read my original post way-back-when and asked where to purchase this product. I didn't have the comments linked to my email, so I never responded. Mea culpa - how bad is that for a blogger!

I bought this at my salon in Gatineau, but please excuse my ignorance - it may be available in stores and online, but I'm not sure. http://nioxin.com/en-US/salon-finder-page.aspx Here's a link to the salon finder to see where's sold in a salon near you.

Here's to showering with a friend! Get your mind out of the gutter people...I mean Nioxin. *pfft*

I found it! It only took two years, but I found it!

2012-01-19T16:51:00.000-08:00

Vegeta, that is.

The seemingly elusive special ingredient that seems to be a staple in 90% of the recipes in the Bernstein recipe book.

I couldn't find it for the life of me over the past two years here in the National Capital Region. I've scoured every grocery store and specialty store trying to find the stuff.

Finally, whilst on my latest work travel jaunt to London, I found the creature.

As I picked up some staples for my hotel room, I found it tucked in the soup section. Eureka!

I made my first vegetable soup with it from "the book" and it was good. Of course, it's a sodium salt lick, but I've made a few of the soups in the book, and they are just too bland for words. Stripping them recipe of Vegeta makes the Cheddar Cauliflower soup pretty gross.

Vegeta has saved the day - though will retain the water.

I've used it in the big pot of homemade chicken soup though that I've made for the family. The kids are raving about the soup, so that's comforting.

It's a Miracle!

2012-01-19T16:39:00.000-08:00

Now - while I was traveling last week for work and being oh-so-good and burning a consistent 2+, I planted myself at the bar with my iPad and ordered a Perrier.

That was hardest thing to do, with a lovely globe of Rosemount Zinfandel taunting me...

However, as I was reading up on Low Glycemic diets (for fun...) I came across an interesting product that claims zero calories and non-carb.

Miracle Noodle http://www.miraclenoodle.com/default.aspx

Now - noodles in a stir fry is my downfall. I love Pad Thai and all things rice noodle. I was intrigued about this product and its claim.

The noodles are made of Shirataki - a naturally water soluble fiber with no fat, sugar, or starch.

The noodles and rice:
* contain zero net carbohydrates and zero calories, no gluten -made of a healthy natural fiber called Glucomannan.
* are wheat & gluten free and kosher.
* easily absorbs the flavors of any soup, dish, or sauce.
* are instant and come in a variety of styles - I bought the rice (looks like risotto rice), the angel pasta and fettucini noodles
* have shown beneficial effects backed by medical studies for Type II Diabetes, Constipation, Obesity, and Cholesterol.

I'm going to try them tonight, but I don't know if they will kick me out of ketosis or not. I reckon though since they are a natural fibre, have no sugar or starch, they shouldn't affect the ketosis burn.

If you check out the website, there are some pretty good testimonials.

They aren't cheap though. For the 3-type noodle sampler box (4 rice, 4 angel hair and 4 fettucini noodle packs that are individual serving sizes) it was $75.

A costly risk, but if they work, taste reasonable and don't kick me out of ketosis, I could actually significantly modify my food choices.

Certainly not Bernstein-approved, but I'd like to try this product.

Here's to my noodle experiment!

ここでは、麺の天にだ！
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UPDATE ALERT!

I tried the rice for supper tonight, and here is my assessment. Once you open up the package and release the water that is keeping the Shirataki fresh, there is an overwhelming fishy/sea water smell. I don't eat fish or seafood and am really sensitive to that smell, so I was put off initially.

After rinsing the contents under cold water as instructed, I plopped the rice into a pot of boiling water for the requisite 1 minute of blanching. I drained (but didn't dry them between a paper towel like you're supposed to) and added some soya sauce.

I must admit, I wasn't very hungry tonight, so I didn't have it in a proper stir fry that I typically make, with soya sauce, bok choy, brocolli, cauliflower, celery, garlic and ginger. I think the noodles will be a welcome addition to my stir fries.

The texture was interesting - like little gelatinous balls - but it absorbed the soya sauce and did not taste fishy. WHEW!

For the small packets, they actually contain a lot - a full size plate worth. Hence, it would be enough to add to a full stir fry for sharing. I think with the proper spices, it will add the texture that I'm used to for my stir fries.

I'll check the old pee-o-meter in a couple of hours and see if I've sabotaged my ketosis burn.

Wish me luck for phase III of this experiment.

Old Mc-Walden had a Farm....

2012-01-19T16:19:00.000-08:00

I'm trying to introduce a few new recipes and elements this time around, just to keep the diet fresh and fun.

As I was perusing the food list again - trying to remember whether red wine was an eligible liquid (but alas, it is not...) I came across the litany of Walden Farms products.

Now, I am quite suspicious of products that claim a zero calorie content, but I thought I'd try it. Since I'm such a nut-freak and love peanut butter, I thought I'd try their brand. Just as my luck would have it though, they were sold out.

So, I ordered some other products to see if they would work for me. $78 dollars and 5 days later, I received a neatly packed box replete with:

Apple butter
Raspberry "jam"
BBQ sauce
4 types of salad dressings, and
Chocolate sauce

I used the BBQ sauce for a chicken recipe, and while the smell is sweet and a little odd, the flavour is quite good. Even the family liked it - though they don't know it was Walden Farms.

I like the raspberry, but it's consistency is more like a gelatenous blob than anything resembling a jam or jelly. It's good enough on my single Bon Matin 60% No Fat, No Sugar whole wheat bread in the morning though.

I finger-tasted the salad dressings and I hope they'll be better on the salad, because there was nothing raspberry-vinagrette tasting about that concoction - just like a salt lick. As well, the Asian dressing didn't have any hint of soya or sesame flavour. We'll see how that goes...

What I do like was turning my Vanilla Proti shake with berries into a frozen yoghurt-style dessert. I mix up one container of shake with 5 oz of berries (with some Splenda) and pour them into 3 small glass bowls. I top them with one berry, then put in the freezer. Once it's frozen, I spoon a thin layer of the Walden Farms Chocolate sauce on top and let it freeze. YUM YUM YUM! The kids love this - I love this - and it's a good 1/3 P and 1/3 F, with 1 tbsp O - for a lovely dessert.

Who says you can't eat well on Bernstein - with a little help from the Walden Farm-hands.

Bridesmaid dress shopping

2012-01-19T15:53:00.000-08:00

One of my big motivators this year is that I'm in my BFF's wedding party. On Saturday, the best-gals along with the bride and groom, went dress hunting.

After pulling 6 optional dresses, we found the winner. A princess cut ballroom gown, shape hugging with a ribbon at the waist. Classic and lovely. I felt great in the dress - it's going to be stunning.

While I was the model for the initial model (with the dress at a loose 14) I can't wait to get down to my fighting size 8 and rock this dress - and the wedding.

So - lots of No-Fat Jello for me now - for lots of champagne later!

Here's to good losses!

2012-01-19T15:34:00.000-08:00

Well, since I re-signed up, I'm down 18 lbs. Yahoo!

I've been extremely strict - to the letter - and I've had consistent 2+ and 3+ burns. I've ensured that any fruit and breads that I eat are first thing in the morning, so I can burn them off throughout the day. My meat is spaced out - though I'm keeping the portions on the smaller side. Veggies are the supper and evening snack staple.

While I've gone to bed with a pretty light belly, I'm neither hungry nor craving anything.

What I have done is removed any caffeine (coffee, diet drinks or tea) and moved strictly to caffeine-free. Caffeine really holds water, so that's gone. I do still use some salt, but I do see the water-retention difference. However, I can't remove all the things I love...

I've returned to my Vanilla Proti shake and strawberries (or mixed berries) routine for the morning. However, when I do, I don't have as much of a drop as when I stick to egg whites in the morning.

From 180 to 162.

I need to get past the 160-hump. That's my mental barrier so I need to get visualizing my skinny-self and read my 10-point list of self-depricating lashings that I have on my refrigerator door next to my once 140-skinny picture.

I have to change the "I think I can" to "I know I can."

Non-Bernstein options, and other blasphemous musings...

2012-01-06T18:10:00.000-08:00

So my colleague (a 30-year retired diplomat) and fab-u-lous, amazing, worldly and grounded woman, tipped me off to her secret.

The Montignac diet.

Now, we all know that the women in France have a different approach to eating. Everything in moderation, a glass of good red wine per day (not tetrapack swill) and eating very slowly.

Well, how anyone can refuse the gastronomique delights courtesy of Le Cordon Bleu when it's right under your apartment balcony and on every street corner is beyond me, but these broads can manage the temptation.

Well, my friend (who was posted to Paris for 5 years in the mid-90's...yeah, rough life!) said that everyone there swears by the Montignac approach, and was her weight loss regime then, and maintains it to this day.

For the uninitiated to Monsieur Michel Montignac, it's a similar Bernstein approach - a low glycemic diet that removes the carbs and ups the proteins. For more info see http://www.montignac.com/

I like the concept, and for those of us who get hyperspasmodic arm jerks every time we have to reach for our Visa card to pay for another week or more of Bernstein, it could be a possible do-it-yourself solution.

And guess what...? You get to drink red wine!!

Hold your baguettes and berets girls, this could be a winner.

Weeks 1-3

As the structure (or scripture) goes, according to my 5'7" frame, I could eat the following:

* No white bread, rice, potatoes, pasta or sugar (same as Bernstein)
* Fruit - any kind is allowed
* Vegetables (no beets, corn or carrots)
* Grilled meat or fish, whole eggs allowed
* Not more than 2 slices of whole wheat or multigrain bread (they have their own Montignac bread based on specific techniques and scientific study...at $10 a bag.)

Where the interesting bit comes in is in the combination in which food may or may not be eaten. For instance:

Do not combine fruit with anything - eat alone always as a mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack
Do not combine complex carbs with meat. Meat can only be combined with vegetables. Apparently putting everything together causes the body to implode, create noxious gases and just revolt.
Eligible snacks during the day includes almonds, cheese, a hard boiled egg or fruit
Plus, olive oil is allowed for cooking or vinegrettes, etc
Herbs are welcomed
Good red wine is allowed (but no liquor or white wine)

The key after the first 3 weeks, whereby your stomach shrinks and your metabolism has sufficiently kicked in, is to maintain a 1500 caloric intake. You can bring in some whole wheat pasta, etc., but calorie counting becomes the key.
______

Well in theory, this is a similar approach to Bernstein. Most of the eligible and non-eligible foods are there, except for the oil and red wine.

Red wine - une verre du vin rouge - mais oui!

As well, from my own Bernstein journey, I have found success in limiting the limited fruits and carbs to the mornings and early afternoons, and maintaining steady protein throughout the day. Veggies - I don't even count them, I just use what I want and need. Given that they are water and very low calorie, it's not going to kick me out of ketosis.

I just might keep this little French method in my back pocket for when I'm cash-strapped and down to my fighting weight.

It's worked for my friend...and the french approach to food is obviously working for that little orphan Madeline...and Pepe le Pew's girlfriend... oh, and Juliette Binoche!

Happy New Year - to you and to me!

2012-01-06T17:10:00.000-08:00

Okay, so the going on strict during the holidays was a courageous effort, but short lived. Instead, the program went on hold as the realization that with family coming and hosting over 40 people (over the course of 4 evenings straight) was going to require a few glasses of wine...for my sanity alone.

So, I rejoined the clinic this Tuesday.

With a weigh-in of 180, I'm happy to report that I'm at 171.6 today. Not bad! Obviously there was lots of sodium and water weight, and I'm burning a 2++ on the old pee-sticks.

I thought I would have more of a problem this week, but honestly, I'm not craving anything. I've reverted back to my solid diet (see one of the many postings above which breaks down my daily intake and food combination) and I'm cooking with gas now!

I must admit, a key motivation for me is that I am a bridesmaid in my BFF's wedding in August. I just refuse to feel like a blob in chiffon next to her svelte body. Plus, the groomsman that I'm paired with is a manager at Moore's Menswear, slim, tall and french (from Paris!!) You kiddin' me? I'm aiming to be a real arm charm for that Pierre Cardin!

Yeah...no.

It's funny. The mother-of-the-bride is also an ex-Bernstein client (she lost 40 lbs and after a year, is also doing the 20lb yo-yo weight war) so we've both gone back to reclaim our bodies. She's in good shape to begin with. Me on the other hand want to vanquish the backfat and thunder thighs forever. We try on the potential dress next Saturday. I'll put a deposit down on the dress, but I'm not going to order the sze until I'm down to my rose-petal strewn red-carpet weight!

So my strategy for this 40lb loss?

It's simply abundantly clear that carbs love me - too much. The evening snacking, sugar and bread throws me into a lipogenesis faster than the big bang!

I can't eat it or I literally gain a pound overnight.

So apart from knowing (yes, I do know this intellectually, but have failed to action it effectively) this, I'm going to make a concerted effort next week (while I'm traveling) to pack what I need for food and stay away from the restaurant. In addition, alongside my trusty Vanilla Proti shakes and homemade meals, will be my brand new Running Room runners, shorts and a shirt so I can exercise.

This has truly been the missing piece to the puzzle for a good decade for me. Of course, the kids and career consume every waking moment (and volunteering and carving out some precious time for hubby claims the rest of my time) but I have to get active. I can't keep blaming the food, when it's the output that matters too.

You gotta burn what you eat.

But when you're on Bernstein - consuming only 700-800 calories per day, you're body's taking what it needs from your fat stores. Good riddance lipoluggage!

I'm just going to help that along a little bit with some extra walking or treadmill jogging.

Heaven forbid I swim in public.

No - not yet. Maybe on the next trip...

A recipe for disaster - but I have to try

2011-12-15T18:16:00.000-08:00

Well, since my last post, I was able to get to 160. A very good result after 1 month being on the program.

Sure enough though, as my work travel increased, and the dreaded temptation of the hotel restaurant and post-negotiations tipple at the bar, I couldn't continue on strict. I just couldn't bear packing a week's worth of hard boiled eggs and protein shakes to sustain myself on the travels.

What a lame excuse though. I was two blocks from a Loblaws, and three blocks from a Benstein clinic. What was wrong with me!!

So here I am, two weeks before Christmas and going to enrol back on strict. I still have one month's prepaid credits sitting waiting to be used, and I crept back up 10 pounds. I just can't seem to resist certain foods - but I have to drop this weight. My skinny clothes were not just relegated to the far-end of my closet, but have now been returned to my daughter's closet so I can get down the 4 sizes (yes, I'm in 14 and need to get back to my size 8) before I can bear to have my skinny jeans in my presence.

I have to do this though. I just don't like who am "fat." It's just not me - the flabby inner thighs, cottage-cheese arms and fleshy-gut. I remember just loving the zero-back-fat, slim, no double chin and sexy self at BMI. Why can't I just be her full-time?

How do I let red wine, peanut butter, carbs and sugar come between me and my size 8 JCrew skinny jeans and happiness?!!

If I can't do this during the season when I would risk increasing yet another 10 pounds, then I'm doomed.

This is it - 2012 is going to my year - all year!

That is my gift to myself. Plus, I bought myself (courtesy of my daughter) a gorgeous size 10 silk JCrew blouse that I get to unwrap on Christmas morning. Damn it, it's going to flow off my slim frame by February if it kills me.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to me!

Here's to a happy and healthy holiday to you and yours. xo

Back with some renewed pithe and vinegar (just white please.)

2011-09-02T05:45:00.000-07:00

Well, as I read over the last scant entries over the past year or so, I'm bemused and humbled by my weight loss journey.

Since reaching my BMI in Sept 2009 of 140, I reached 180 lbs (I know, I know!) in August of this year.

Call it dietary laziness and greed. I reverted back to my same old bad habits and paid for it dearly.

Back came the unlimited quantities of wine and spirits - especially during the summers around the pool. Be damned were the healthy portions and food selections, when pizza and carbs abounded in the work cafeteria.

It's amazing how arrogant you become when you shed the pounds, look and feel great, and think that you're invincible to the almighty calorie.

So, after spending this summer feeling ugly in my own skin - with back flab and muffin-top rolls casting an unsightly silhouette on my bikini-clad frame, I enrolled back on the strict diet.

As you faithful readers know, I dabbled back on and off Bernstein a few times over the last year. I'd creep up to 160-165 and think it's better to shed these few pounds than let it get out of hand. However, I just couldn't get motivated and stay strict on the diet. I blame peanut butter actually. I missed it so much in the first round that once I reached my goal weight it became a loving staple in my day. So, strict was difficult for me.

I had to find my resolve back. I had to get serious.

I think when I saw 179-180 on the scale, I almost had a heart attack. I could no longer be blind to the reality that I had let things go beyond my control.

From my lovely new size 8-10 wardrobe came some new pieces into my closet. A few size 12 capris and even a size 14 for "that time of the month." And here I swore I would never see those numbers again - and they were even feeling tight!

On August 18, 2011, I re-enrolled at my clinic. What a surprise though - a whole new crop of nurses and staff. A nice change - some new faces. Actually, I think having new staff helped me to motivate myself. They didn't know me - they didn't know my past success and failure. I didn't need to feel embarassed that I had let myself slip. It could be a fresh start with them. It made the transition back easier.

So since the 18th I've lost 12 lbs. I've had a few good 2++ burning days, but I still struggle to stay strict. It's not as easy this time - knowing what's lurking in my cupboards (aka peanut butter.) I have cheated a few times because I seem so much hungrier this time. However, I'm committed to making it work.

I think what is a motivator for me is that I paid for 2 months upfront. With that kind of financial commitment, it helps me keep focused. I mean, why would I purposely want to literally "piss" $1,100 down the drain for a mere trace, or no ketosis at all? However, as I'm occasionally tempted in the evenings to fill my belly with a bun or extra melba toast, I will need to make myself a little card with the reminders as to why I'm doing this. Otherwise, I can't seem to summon enough willpower to resist incidental cheating, and sabotage the diet and my success.

A vicious circle....

Anyway - here's Round II of the program.

Wish me luck!

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-15T18:54:00.000-08:00

Well, there was no chocolate for me, but the roses from hubby was great. I met my 2 week goL, but I couldn't resist the Friday night evening with friends. Don't tell, but I imbibed in some wine and some nibblies. Though it was highly satisfying, it took 2 days to get back into ketosis. Argghhhh.

I'm back swinging though.

I picked up a new veggie steamer. I prefer it to using the Ziploc steamer bags now.

H.

New Year's Update

2011-01-26T17:28:00.000-08:00

Happy 2011 folks!

Well, apart form my attempt to do it solo in December, the diet didn't yield much. The Walmart Vitamin B Complex or Vit B6/12 pills do squat. Can't say it any more plain language than that.

So, on January 14th I returned to the clinic to do it the right way.

Of course, within 2 days I was burning ++ (yahoo!) and within 1 week I'm down 8 lbs. Ah, it feels great to be eating cleanly again and the pants are already loosening up.

I was worried that I wouldn't have the willpower like I did the first time, but it's there. I can easily resist the goodies and temptations around me, so I'm back on track to losing the 15 lbs that crept on and get back to my BMI.

I am traveling again this week, so I'm just going to be strong and grin and bear the ridiculous buffet prices to get the breakfast I need

BREAKFAST
6 egg white omelette - Pam spray only - with tomatoes, green pepper, mushroom and onion; 5 oz cantaloupe; decaf coffee with Splenda and a little milk)

and take it again in the wallet at lunch at the hotel buffet for

LUNCH
A little bit of lettuce, 3-4 slices of the turkey cold cuts and 7 oz of tomatoes, cucumber, broccoli, etc.... I'll see if they have a simple balsamic dressing, otherwise it's too-bad, so-sad and sprinked with pepper.

I usually bring melba toast or breadsticks in my purse, in case they only have baguette bread, so I'm not tempted by the carb villains.

I'm lucky at least, that where I stay when I travel, there's a Bernstein clinic only a few minutes away.

So, I'm on the road again, and I'll report back shortly on my next week's progress!

Adios.

Day Two - and counting

2010-12-02T18:09:00.000-08:00

So, it was really difficult to get back on the diet bandwagon yesterday. When you've let yourself slip to grab some popcorn here, and starches and carbs there; a few sweets thrown in for good measure, it requires a real kick in the ass to resurrect some self discipline.

However, it's back baby!

And while I can't say it's back with a vengeance, me sitting here in my size 10 jeans with a muffin top hanging over the edge is motivation enough to say, "Bring on the veggies and egg whites!"

So, I was dutiful today and have stayed within the Bernstein proteins, 16 oz veggies, 2 melba toasts, an apple and 1 Jello cup, with lots of water and decaf coffee, which is making my heart happy.

Yup, I'm actually feeling a bit of the hung pang starting to develop (so I know I'm in the right zone.)

I've pulled out the Daily Multi vitamin; picked up some Vit B complex pills at the pharmacy; taking a few Senokot S with my meals (wow - was that a shock when that kicked in at lunch again... I had forgotten about the power of those little orange pills) and staying away from the bad food cravings.

Here's to my willpower. I'm sure if I pull out the old pee sticks and jar tomorrow morning, I'll be back on the right track if I see ketosis in full bloom.

Here's to the pee-stick!

Okay - back to basics

2010-11-29T10:45:00.000-08:00

Wow - I actually had a day off today and spent some time on the computer, and I realized I haven't posted on the blog since - what - May! Oh my - that won't do.

Well, a moment to reflect and confess. I did get down to 143 since my last posting, but I'm now up to 160. I know - 20 lbs over the summer and fall. I tell you, it's been quite a lesson in weight mis-management.

I even tried to get back on strict at the clinic in September, but failed miserably in large part due to my hectic work/travel schedule. It's brutal trying to stick to strict when you're traveling outside of a Bernstein-zone where you can't get to a clinic every other day for your shots, and trying to eat in restaurants or you can't take your own foods with you due to no fridge.

It's also ridiculous to think that I can eat what I want, when I want, and not pack on the pounds. I mean really - bread, starches, wine/booze - you just can't win with those in the house. For me that is.

So, I'm looking in my closet and the whole new beautiful wardrobe that I bought last year is starting to feel a little tight. My size 10 pants are getting snug - and my size 8 skinny jeans - well, they are hung up and just sitting there staring at me. And i so love those jeans, so enough is enough!!

Before I head into the holiday season and surrounded by sweets, wine, starches and sauces galore, I'm going to give myself a 2-week personal boot camp and give my cupboards an overhaul.

I'm also going to reread this blog to reconnect with how I managed my foods, travel and self-discipline in the first place that empowered me to lose all the weight in the first place. I've relogged onto Calorie Count to track my intake, and I'm going to get serious about my diet sheet and intake.

While I love the ladies (and gents) at the clinic, I'm doing this on my own this time.

....and I promise to write again.

TTYL!

On no! Bikini season is upon us...

2010-05-27T19:47:00.000-07:00

and I'm again 10 lbs heavier.

Geesh!

It is truly amazing how old eating habits creep us to bite you in your ever-expanding ass if you don't constantly keep those foods that wreak havoc with your body in check. Bread - bad (for me.) Pasta, rice, potatoes...rum and coke (even Coke Zero!)...man.

So, it will be back to the strict diet for me. I'm not going to go running back to the Bernstein Clinic right away. I'll pull out my diet sheets from some earlier posting and haul my butt to Loblaws to restock the fridge and get my evil environmentally degrading Ziploc Steamer Bags chock full of 8 oz veggie delights and 7 oz (lovingly split equally in 3 portions) protein portions ready.

I am determined to get back to 140 lbs - if it kills me.

Wish me luck!

I did it! Now maintaining it....

2010-04-07T04:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I reached 139 and decided rather than fork out another $150, I'd go on my own. I'm maintaining 143 give or take, and I think that's where my body is most comfortable. Once I get back into a regular eating routine again, I seem to stabilize there.

So, I'm keeping up my 16 oz vegetable/amalgam routine, and watching the fats/carbs, and staying busy. That makes a difference.

Plus, I told the Easter bunny to take a hike, so without any chocolate tempting my lips, I'm doing alright.

I was in the gardens this past weekend too with the amazing spring weather, and did a lot of work. Last summer I would have to take a break every 10 minutes due to lightheadedness when I would do physically demanding activities. Now I have the energy (and some extra calories) to sustain a full afternoon of outdoor work.

Maybe my garden with be a little better maintained this year!

As an added bonus - and incentive to stay healthy - my hubby carved out an 8 x 10 patch in our side yard so we can plant a fresh vegetable garden. I've already mapped out the favourites, ordered the seeds, and even started a vermiculture kit to turn all my vegetable scraps (from my ritual Sunday six-8 oz veggie bag prep sessions) into worm food to sustain my garden.

That's it - it's a whole new lifestyle and chapter! And it took a whole year (and ongoing mental reprogramming) to inculcate.

Here's to the Summer of 2010 - may it be slimming an rewarding for you too!

H.

I'm on my way!

2010-03-20T15:52:00.000-07:00

What a thrill to see on Friday that I'm back to a solid 142 - yahoo! I was quite perturbed last week with the plateau of 146...I just wasn't budging.

I've found for me, that I'm fine with protein in the morning and lunch, but I can't have it at night. If I do, it seems to slow progress down.

So, I have my Proti Vanilla shake with 5 oz strawberries in the morning; sometimes have a Bon Matin slice of NoFat/No Sugar whole wheat bread (very similar to my husband's Bon Matin 14 grain bread) which is half the calories of my husband's brand. My full slice ties me over - or

I'll save it for lunch with my 100gr PC honey maple turkey.

For supper, I'll load up on the veggies - a nice 16oz heap of zuccini, bean sprouts, mushrooms (enoki are my current fav), celery, broccoli and cauliflower with soya sauce, fresh garlic and ginger. Yum!! A heaping flavourful plate of goodness.

I must say, on Tune Up, and having been on the program before, I'm not too worried about the processed foods/salt factor as much this time. Though I know it's definitely slowing down the rate of loss, I am wanting the flavour. However, it's also "that" time of the month too, so it could just be my biological craving for the menstrual salt lick...

I have 135 as my two week goal. Doctor's appointment is Monday, and measurements on Wednesday.

Here's to Week 3 on Tune Up!

Embarking on Week 2 - Tune Up Progress

2010-03-12T16:45:00.000-08:00

Well, from 152.6 to 146.2, I'm well on my way to reaching next week's target of 144.

I was traveling for work this week, so I had to remember how to survive while away from my routine. I really found the first week a challenge to get strict again, but with my trusty pee-sticks on hand at home, I was monitoring and it only took 48 hours for my body to kick in.

Nothing like having your body tell you in only a matter of a few hours "Yeah, you're fat - I'm burning it off already." It's humbling....

I went from my first weigh in at 152.6 (gasp!) to a 4 lb drop in two days. Water bien sur, but it's so motivating to see that initial big loss. I did find the first few days hard. I swear once you start eating refined sugar again your body truly craves it. It took me a few days to really push away the bad foods, but once you get back into your clean food and routine, I don't crave it or get lured by it.

And that's a hard thing to do with those raisin bran muffin hubcaps (these muffins are HUGE) that scream out to me at the coffee shop every morning when I get my large decaf with a splash of skim milk and 2 Splenda packets.... I put in extra Splenda and imagine it's one of the 500 calorie raisins from the muffin rolling around in my mouth.

But luckily this morning I looked at them and didn't even smell them. I swear the B6/12 concoction must block out the olifactory receptors to resist unwanted foods... it's a theory.

I've crept along at my typical half a pound loss per day since then.

What a lovely surprise though this morning at weigh-in - a girlfriend of mine mentioned my name when she joined the program that I received a free week! Thanks Kate!!

So, armed with some Proti Vanilla shakes, I'm ready for next week's loss. They were a lifesaver this week on my trip for work - brought 2 with me and a peanut & jam protein bar (these are new - and are they yummy!) so that I would have 1 pre-packaged protein per day. You can't eat more than one of these items each per day, so I alternated.

While I know those foods are not the best and are chock-full of different chemicals, I did need them this week for convenience. You certainly don't lose as much as quickly using them... but the Vanilla shake is great with 5 oz of frozen (or fresh) strawberries with Splenda to taste - an excellent morning smoothie!

Anyway - here's to Week 2 - it's only just begun, and I'm half way to my goal of 135!

Happy weekend everyone. :-)

Day 3 of Tune Up

2010-03-05T12:49:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm into Day 3 of the Tune Up and all is well.

I'm starting to feel the little hunger pangs again, but it took a full 2 days to get into ketosis - and that's only a high 1/low 2 burn.

I'm down 4 pounds since Wednesday though (it's now Friday) but I know it is mainly the water that was retained from all the salt and chemicals lining up to exit.

I must say though, the B Vitamin injections sure do work. I remember waking up in the morning thinking that was the best full night sleep I've had in a long time - and I'm back to the once hourly like clockwork pee breaks. I have such a nice healthy glow - and the weight is dropping off again. Horray!

I am so thankful to the folks who have registered on the program and dropped my name - I have two free weeks to help me along on the Tune Up. Thank you ladies!

I'm hoping to push myself into the 130's so I'm planning on being on the program a full month.

My goal? 135 lbs this time - a good solid entrenchment into my BMI range

My reward? Looking fab-u-lous for my mom's 75th birthday party on April 17th...and maybe a new pair of shoes to go with one of my new dresses that I haven't had a chance to wear yet!

Here's to my lemon water Splenda potion (which I have never abandoned) and the Strict diet again. It's nice to be back to the clinic - at least for a little bit. :-)

Back to the Clinic - L'Esplanade Ottawa

2010-03-03T13:07:00.000-08:00

It was actually quite nice to go back into the clinic. They all know me (Hi Helen!) and we just slid back into the routine.

I felt like I was in an episode of Cheers - just substitute the beer for a Proti vanilla shake. Not quite the same, but....

I felt a little chagrined, though, when I stepped back on the scale. They had my chart out, with my sheet from December, when I was last in for Maintenance. I left at 143...here I ws at 152. Yikes! now, to be fair, I had jeans on, so really it was 150. Still - I felt embarassed.

I'm always so impressed with the nurses at my clinic. They don't shake their heads in disgust - condemn you for gaining a few pounds. Instead I found myself apologizing profusely that I gained the weight since December - a full 10 lbs! - so I wanted to nip it in the bud before I go down the slippery slope of obesity. The receptionist just smiled knowingly (I mean, 90% of them are on the program as well, so they know the pull of temptation) and remarked that they preferred folks come in once they hit the 10 lbs mark, then wait until it's 20 - 30 or full weight gain back again.

That's it - I felt better. I was welcomed back into the fray, and proceeded into the nurses's room.

But man does that injection in the thigh sting...! Yowza.

Tune Up Required

2010-02-26T04:21:00.000-08:00

Well, I've come to the realization that I just can't be left to my own devices, and that I can't let my husband do the grocery shopping...

I've crept back on 8 lbs since my last post last month. I wanted to see what would happen if I just lived life as I wanted. I had beef a few times a week; an extra glass of wine with dinner; desserts (full portion, not just a sliver), etc. Wow - that was a learning experience. Within two weeks my pants were getting tighter again, and I could even see the layer of fat under my skin start to fill out.

Life as science.

So, as a friend of mine said she wants to join Bernstein to lose the 30 lbs that have crept on over the last 5 years, I've decided I'll go back in for the Tune Up program. The quick "lose 10 lbs" in a week or two deal.

I kind of missed the urinalysis - the good morning chat at the clinic - the B6/12 healthy glow.

I've called and going back in on Tuesday for weigh-in.

Ahhhhh.... :-)

A hairy situation

2010-01-27T17:52:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have followed my Bernstein Diet Chronicles from the beginning, then you likely stumbled upon my musings about my thinning hair and hair loss.

It struck me a few mornings ago, as I was readying myself for work, how my hair looked like I had had a lot of new growth peeking through my longer lengths.

Jetting at the top of my head, and along my hairline on my forehead, are masses of short tufts.

At first I thought my daughter took a some scissors to my hair when I slept (wouldn't put it past her...!) until I realized, it must just be the new hair growth from the masses that broke and fell out during the program.

A little disconcerting, but glad to see that it's coming back, and didn't leave me forever.

My hair is feeling thicker. As my hair stylist friend noted (who was also on the program years ago) the thyroid takes a beating with the rapid weight loss, and hair loss is common for many people.

Still. If I had known that before signing up for the program, it wouldn't have been a deal breaker for me. I lost hair during my pregnancies. To lose some but be at my BMI and healthier overall - it's worth it.

So I have to endure an awkward hair-growing period. Just reminds me of high school...just fewer zits and bigger boobs now.

Helen's doing the happy dance!

2010-01-27T16:41:00.001-08:00

Well - I'm doing the happy dance today. While I'm still oscillating between 143 and 146 (I think mainly due to the odd Diet Coke and other miscellaneous Aspartame doses that meld water to my thighs quicker than white on rice...) I went to Value Village today for a treasure hunt.

What did I find?

Wow - lots of skirts that my wardrobe was sorely lacking and a couple of jackets (cool funky ones!) to keep my new wardrobe growing.

I was jumping for joy when I was still able to fit in the 7/8 skirts - and my jackets are 8 or medium. I still can't believe how just 9 months ago, I was perusing the aisles at Value Village (at that time, trying to find clothes for a costume for a play I was in) but couldn't find anything in the 18-20 size - and getting so frickin' frustrated with myself. Now I'm shopping there just to find the oh-so-inexpensive treasures such as Danier, Liz Clairborne, Laura, MEXX, Gap, Tommy Hilfiger, Roots and loads of others great clothes for a fraction of the price, but in sizes I can fit in!! I'm just so excited. It's a whole new world open to me again.

Yahoo!!

While I still want to get back to my 140, to give myself a little more breathing room, I'm happy as a clam. I was going to go back on the program this week, but with so many big bills coming in the next few months (municipal taxes, house insurance, etc., etc...ugghh) I'm going to have to wait.

I figure I'll stick it out and go on the my own until April - and if I need some help to get to my 140 (or perhaps even 135 for bikini season) I'll do the Tune-Up program.

In the meantime, three cheers for me for holding my own and living-on-Maintenance! It works, but it's a constant conscious effort.

Baby steps...baby steps. If I indulge one day, it's two days of strict.

Easy does it....in my new Danier skirt and funky Chanel-esque tweed 3/4 sleeve jacket. ;-)

Little Learnings Through the Bernstein Diet

2010-01-12T19:22:00.000-08:00

I work in Aboriginal issues, and when we consult with communities, I love the roundtable, open-circle approach to discussing issues. The knowledge, wisdom, perspectives and realistic solutions from individuals is enlightening and refreshing.

As I reflect on Bernstein and its impact on my life, I want to take that open-circle approach. So I have the talking stick: here are my thoughts.

Sugar is poison

Salt is evil

I don't need to eat as much as I thought I did.

We (I as chef) relied on starches and meat to fill the void; processed white breads and sugar-laden products.

I'm keeping the preferred products, and in the process of mapping out for each member of the family portions/foods and a new approach to meal planning that balances out what we're eating and how much.

The program has given me the opportunity to stop the bus, do some research, evaluate my relationship with food, and what food I want to have in my life. I always admired high performance athletes who would say that their body is their temple and they don't ingest anything that harms it. I would think - yes, nice philosophy - as I drove through a McDonald's restaurant for a Big Mac. Now I know what that adage means, and have been living it. I want to continue living that clean-eating motto.

Now, in some communities, a sacred stick, pipe or other cultural object might be passed around the circle. The purpose is that each individual would "speak into it" (a metaphor for simply verbalizing publicly) their one action that they commit to implementing to continue the learning and path to change.

So, here's my personal commitment toward continued action. I'm going to create a visual "talking stick" - a decorated plate to visualize how I will eat based on my learnings - as a commitment to myself for the future.

I'm going to do that this weekend and I'll post a photo and display it on my fridge for daily visualize and action. I'll post it when it's done.

What would your "talking stick" commitment look like?

And no...this picture is not it. Far from it...

January 12th and counting...

2010-01-12T19:02:00.000-08:00

Well, the time has passed when we're officially into the New Year and the resolution to modify our behaviour and habits has either taken root or been carted to the curb with the remnants of the holidays.

I'm happy to report that I'm still on track - though not without some challenges.

I agree with another Facebook Dr. Bernstein client "Chef Michelle" that Maintenance is not easy. It's a real challenge to face the portion control on your own - particularly after the holidays. I spent time on Sunday grocery shopping, cutting, measuring and packaging my veggies and breads and meats, but I find myself sneaking carbs left right and centre aisle....

What is wrong with me? I don't even feel hungry yet my hand reaches out for a cookie or a handful of nacho chips (multigrain mind you) like I'm a frog's tongue instinctively snatching some fleeting prey before it escapes.

I didn't do that on the program! I knew better. I had the willpower. Why is it so hard to stay on strict?

I think like with the Maintenance program, doing it on your own has no consequences. On Strict, you're in the clinic Monday, Wednesday and Friday for weigh-in - scrutiny - monitoring. You're accountable.

At home, I'm only accountable to my scale and myself. But shouldn't I be more accountable and guilt-ridden if I'm not meeting the mark than for some complete strangers?

I'm doing okay - I'm down 2 lbs on my own by just cutting back and eating sensibly, but I feel like I need to do the Tune-Up program just to get back down and feel in fighting form. I need to feel the hunger pangs again in the morning and see the steady progress.

I don't think I'm ready to do this alone yet. Maintenance sets you off on your own devices - but it's not easy. Even with the once-weekly weigh-in and injection, it's not enough for me. I still need some hand-holding.

Strange isn't it. When you reach goal weight you think you're invincible - until you realize that it's a slippery slope with one glass of wine here - then another...then a couple of chips to a handful...to a small portion of pasta to a half large plate...to a mini-muffin top creeping over your new skinny jeans to make your heart stop.

I didn't pay $3,500 for a program, and new clothes and reclaiming myself to fail and overindulge. I need to re-read my blog and remember the journey and the joy, and remember what got me here.

Is anyone feeling they're going to slip down the slope and regress? I don't believe I would go far down the slope, but even a slight trip scares the crap out of me.

What's my Apple for the day?

In our house, at supper time, we each share a good thing about our day (our Apple), and something crappy as well (our Onion.) So my Apple is that my hair loss has stopped. I've been good for the last month. As a physician friend said, likely a stabilizing of the thyroid after the rapid weight loss. I didn't find the Nixoderm did much except dull my blonde highlights, so I stopped using that. (BTW for the comment in December that I didn't see - I bought it at my hair salon - I haven't seen it in any stores.)

Another Apple is that for the winter skin moisturizing, I still use baby oil daily, and my skin has remained taut and healthy, so that's good!

For my Onion, for the past week I've been sticking to strict plan and portions, but when I get home, I can't stop myself from eating bread...slices of 14 grain or flax seed cookies (at 140 calories each) just for the hell of it. Why?!

I think I need to recruit my husband to be the bread gestapo and halt my enemy incursions.

Geesh. The program was so much easier; real life is too tempting.

Post-Holiday Reality Check

2010-01-06T05:10:00.000-08:00

Well, what a test we had over the holidays.

I wanted to see how I'd be with all the food, drink and general temptation all around during the holidays. For the most part I did pretty well, although Ferrero Rocher chocolates are evil...! However, as my scale revealed a few days ago, I'm up to 147...a full 5 lbs higher than pre-Christmas maintenance weigh-in.

Uh oh....!

So, as we are taught to do on the Bernstein diet, it's back to basics for me. No 4 oz glass of wine for another month; gone are the 1/2 cup portions of potatoes, rice and pasta, and certainly no more corn or carrots.

Actually, I can honestly say with all the hedonism over the holidays, I need a bit of a flushing out. The salt, butter and preservatives...I actually feel weighed down.

So, before the extra poundage turns to 10 lbs, I'm back on strict - but just by myself at home. I'm going to do it on my own. I think...I hope.

I've already announced to my husband that cookies and treats must be banished from the cupboards again. It's amazing how quickly they creep in again (not from my persuasion mind you, but his and the kids!) So - they're gone.

I have to. It's self preservation. I know what my weaknesses are, so why deny it?

As a family we're reaffirmed that we're going to healthy again. We're buying a bread machine (to make Essene bread and whole grain baguettes) and I'm back into no salt soup making mode.

I've even encouraged (sucessfully) to make a weekly cooking project with my son, so he can learn to cook (he's 9) and get used to food preparation, tasting new flavours and recognizing calorie and sodium/sugar content. Wish us luck. It's a toned down version of Julie & Julia .... without the deboning of a duck. More like Dakota/Helen & Dr. Bernstein...relishing in all things weighed, premeasured, veggie and protein. The true test will be if he can actually embrace the brussel sprout. I'll let you know how that goes.

Anyway, I'm not going to beat myself up for 7 lbs - it's a learning experience and I can't take back the Baileys in my coffee, or delicious steak and cheese fondue. I had a great time preparing the rich and flavourful food, and enjoying it.

It just goes to show how portion control and ingredients have to be measured and monitored.

After January 1st.

Here's to 2010 everyone!!

Heading into the holidays.

2009-12-07T18:40:00.000-08:00

What a great feeling - I had four messages on my Facebook account this week alone from folks saying they're reading my blog and looking to join the program.

Glad to see folks are stopping by!

Sit down - stay awhile. I'll pour you a glass of my lemon/water/Splenda mix and we'll chat.

It's been almost two months since my last entry, and wow, I'm still 140 give or take! Today I'm up to 144 - but I did have a few glasses of wine on the weekend at my husband's company Christmas party, and I did partake in the dessert table - not much, but a little nibble. However, with my lean and mean intake today, I'll be down to my fighting self tomorrow again.

So as I've learned through maintenance, when you eat some sugar or some carbs (pasta, potatoes, corn and other yummy starches) go for a brisk walk or dance, or those evil doers will go straight to your fat cells.

My doctor at the Bernstein clinic confirmed that today as well, so beware in the Maintenance dance. Eat in moderation, and keep active if you want to balance your over-indulgences.

I'm inspired by one of the ladies who contacted me on Facebook today though. As I warned her about starting the diet so close to Christmas - that she'll perhaps be too tempted by the rich food and drink over the holidays - she's excited to start right away and change her lifestyle.

Good for her!! That's the spirit if you want to achieve on the program.

Just knowing that if she starts now, she'll be down a full 2-3 sizes by mid-January. Now that's motivation to start early on the endless weight loss New Year's Resolution.

As for me - I'm back on formal Maintenance as of two weeks ago and go weekly to the clinic for my single injection and weigh-in. That's the great thing about the program. Even if you don't think you need it, they embrace you back if you want it. There's no pressure, but if you wat the vitamins and support, they're there to help. Works for me.

I'm back to preparing my pre-weighed veggies and meat. I like the discipline and knowing what I'm taking in. I naturally limit my fruits - apart from my morning smoothly and the odd applesauce, I don't crave fruits. But by process of elimination, I know now what my problem foods are:

Bread - in all forms...though we usually only have 14 grain and whole wheat, but the Raisin Bran muffins they sell in our office coffee shop are just so damn good...they're my daily sugar doom, and likely a quarter of one would be my daily limit. That's my resolution for tomorrow - no Marcello's Raisin Bran muffin...
Pasta - though I only have a 1/2 cup or 1 cup max, it's a killer for me
Rice - again, not often or a lot, but it goes straight to my a$$
Wine - just substitute all mixed drinks, coolers, beer and spirits in here, and you've get the point

So, the holidays will be my testing ground. Not to mention my colleague's ongoing hockey or preschool fundraising efforts, with endless boxes of chocolates around. Geesh

My 2010 resolution?

To get back to 100% faithfulness to abide by Bernstein Maintenance, and not cheat on the program. Oh, and to use CalorieCount.com religiously again. It's been awhile.

While I'm staying within the safe zone, it can be a challenge. Even with everything in moderation. But then - if I indulge one day - I severely restrict any sugars or fats the next day. It works - for me!

At my husband's office party, there were three women who were on Bernstein years ago and over time, gained all their weight back.

In 2010 and beyond, I resolve that I will not regain back the weight. So there.

Post-diet impacts

2009-10-20T14:26:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a month of "maintenance", and things are going well.

While I didn't last long on the Bernstein-sanctioned program approach - opting instead for my own Portion.And.Calorie.Control method - I am staying the course at 140.

I must say that I do need to get back to the meal tracking and CalorieCount.com data inputting, to make sure I stay on track.

As I'm reflecting on the diet though, and meeting up with others here in Ottawa who have also done the program, I've noted a few things.

Decreased Potassium

I've heard from some that they are experiencing some ongoing "cold" sensations. Cold hands and feet. Perhaps due to the decreased potassium intake, one lady theorizes. I can't say that I noticed that until today. My hands are little ice cubes, and I'm dressed quite warmly. No signs of a cold coming on either...strange...

Cramping

What I have experienced is daily foot and leg cramping, which I attribute to the decreasing of potassium. I did notice this as soon as I began decreasing the potassium...or was it from the cessation in the B Vitamin injections? Not sure....

Delayed Period

I also seem to have "lost" a period last month. While I rather enjoy not having the monthly disruption, it was a little unnerving. Plus, when it did return, it came with a cramping and flow vengeance. Yikes! Hopefully this will stabilize again.

Hair Loss

Now, one thing that I was warned about (by my coiffeuse who was on Bernstein 10 years ago) was that I would experience hair thinning. This is due to the rapid body/physical changes. Interesting that the clinic doesn't advise patients of this possible side effect. Not that it would have deterred me - the results are worth some new hair growth.

While I didn't think it would happen, it does seem to be. Each morning I'm losing what I feel is a lot of hair in the shower, with some additional throughout the day. the remedy? I've been advised to use Nioxiderm treatment which stimulated follicle and hair growth. A 30-day daily treatment to prevent more loss and stimulate growth. We'll see if it works.

Well entrenched in Maintenace

2009-09-18T15:18:00.001-07:00

Well, it's been a little while since posting. I've been busy - trying to adjust to Maintenance.

I must admit, I've been creating my own mini-maintenance plan. It's a little mix of Bernstein, the Alkaline/Acid diet, portion control (1200 to 1400 calories) and a little of me (which is more like the deviant naughty side...)

So far over the last two weeks I'm maintaining 141 lbs (give or take.)

What I keep having to remind myself is to maintain some of the Bernstein principles - protein every 4 hours to maintain blood sugar levels, and load up on vegetables. However, I'm testing the Maintenance theory with a blend of my own food "allowables."

Here's the skinny, as it were....

Protein

I'm starting to explore some of the other protein options that I didn't use much during the strict diet, but probably could have. I'm making protein smoothies (using Bernstein Vanilla protein shakes and fresh or frozen strawberries, etc.) but also adding some healthy supplements such as Vega's Whole Food Smoothie Infusion, Nature's Plus Spiru-tein, Salba and Udo's Omega 3,6,9 Oil for added nutritional oomf.

While I'm still apportioning my meat into 2.5 or 3 oz portions, I find I can only eat meat twice a day (lunch and supper) so I use protein options like the shakes or egg whites for my bran muffins in the morning. It's a nice new change, which makes me feel like I'm branching out.

I'm probably only barely reaching the 8 oz minimum that Maintenance requires, but I'm not going to load up on huge pieces of meat - it would be too much and would definitely make me constipated. I'm mixing a good blend of meat, egg whites (or 4 whole eggs per week) and whey protein from supplements or bars. I picked up a box of Bernstein's chocolate/peanut butter bars, so when I feel like a sweet-infusion, I'll grab one of those.

Breads

I'm into the second week so I can start to switch up one of my two allowable breads for cereal. Since I'm trying to follow the Alkaline/Acid approach and keep my fibre high, I've opted for All-Bran Original which I'm quite liking! the taste is good, and with a small bowl in the morning, I'm more than filled for the morning. Add some fruit and I'm all set!

I've also strayed from Betty Lite bread and trying Essene bread (otherwise known as Ezekial bread) found in freezers in health food stores. It's the healthiest bread you can get, like a hearty seed bread, and is great toasted with your favourite topping. I still use my Becel spray, but have pushed the envelope a few times to use peanut butter (1 tbsp) or even almond butter (fattening!) just for some good healthy fats. My family is liking essene bread too (sprouted grain bread/gluten free) so this is a nice switch for all of us!

I still have my Ancient Grains crackers, melba toast and old Strict diet standbys for lunches, but I'm trying to integrate my own choices for maintenance. Like popcorn. Oh yeah...and almonds. Just don't tell the clinic....!

Vegetables

I must say, that while we have unlimited quantity allowance under Maintenance for vegetables, I think the Strict diet just "veggied" me out. And I love veggies! However, I've been neglecting my intake. What I've opted to do instead of my Ziploc 8 oz pre-cut selections is I've taken a cue from the health blogs and created my homegrown "green drinks." The magic energy cure-all drinks. Don't know what that is? It's easy.

Take every living green thing that lives in your fridge (no, not the bacteria - just the leafy veggies...) such as that big box of organic salad that you'll never finish; celery; parsley; broccoli - anything really, and stuff them in a blender. Add a good 4 cups of water and "liquify." Et voila! Your green drink.

People swear by the concoction, and I must say, if you're feeling peckish or want a different vegetable substitute, make yourself a batch of this vitamin cocktail and you're set!

Just don't add leeks...gives it a really onion-y flavour. A little off-putting for colleagues at work.

Fruit

I'm more daring with fruits now than I was on the Strict diet. I stayed pretty close to apples and applesauce during weight loss, or grapefruit. I'm still using applesauce and making my fruit muffins most mornings, but now I'm using more frozen fruits for smoothies. But not mangoes - woo there Nelly - not so fast! You still have to hold back on the sugars.

For the first week you have to drop down to only 1 fruit, so it's not really a big deal for me.

I could substitute my lonely little fruit for 6 oz of unsweetened fruit juice, but....naw...I like the fibre.

Dairy

We can now start introducing 2 oz of hard cheese per day, or fat free yogurt and a little bit of butter. I've had a couple of slices of cheese, and bought some yogurt for my smoothie fest, but I've been pretty careful on the dairy. I have, though, used 6 oz of skim milk (outside the 1 teaspoon allowed in Week 1 of maintenance) for a smoothie. Sue me.

Other "Stuff"

(Forgive me Father Bernstein for I have sinned....)

Okay - now the really sexy juicy story begins. During my two-week romp with Mr. Maintenance, I've put on my little devil horns, still rocked my new lingerie, but flirted with danger. So far, I haven't gone to weight-gain hell, so I thinking I'm holding my own in this tango with the little chocolate devil.

While I'm trying to take notes from the alkaline/acid diet whereby all refined sugar is "poison", I do find myself sneaking quick indulgences of the sweet kind. One biscotti here - one cookie there. A fundraising 360 calorie chocolate/almond bar... What was I thinking! The whole bar. I'm definitely going to hell....

While I kick myself soundly in the a$ for that blunder (which was precipitated by literally falling asleep at my desk while enduring a two hour teleconference for work and required a quick energy blast) I do reconcile these lapses of nutritional judgment by the fact that the rest of my daily intake was an "A" in nutritional value. With Caloriecount.com as my witness and daily confessional, I do try my best.

Little Rules

While I'm not sticking to the Maintenance diet as strictly as the Bernstein bible dictates, I am following the basic tenets.

1) Portion control and food choices in moderation. If I have chocolate one day, I'll stay away for a few days and having something else, like some popcorn or some other treat.

2) I haven't pushed the ultimate boundary of wine. Alcohol is still a no-no, so while the Alkaline/Acid diet allows for 4 oz max. of high quality red wine per day, I'm not going there just yet. I want to give myself a month testing my own food intake (since it changes daily right now) before introducing that little indulgence.

3) I'm still taking the vitamins and potassium daily, though when you're no longer in ketosis, you drop down to 1 potassium total per day. No numbness, headaches or tingling, so I must be okay. I only go in once a week (Tuesdays) for my Vitamin B shot, so that's nice.

4) I haven't been tracking my food (except my real diet on Caloriecount.com) so I will rot in hell for the falsified diet sheet I submit at the clinic. Well, it's not REALLY as bad as I make it out to be. I just neglect to add that one indulgent slip I seem to make on a daily basis. I'm just expediting the inevitable reintroduction of foods that we get to at week 12... just a few months earlier! I always was a bit of an overachiever. Plus, I sleep with a clear conscious knowing that I do track my real intake, for all the salt and sugar blunders, to keep me grounded.

Tue, Sep 15 2009		Grade	Grams	Cals
	Breakfast
	Dairyland Skim Milk Fat Free	A	142	52
	Strawberries	A	72	23
	Lemons	A	212	62
	Spelt Ancient Grain Bread	B-	40	120
	Jam, Red Raspberry - Fat-Free		100	48
	Strawberry Spiru Tein Whey Shake	A	35	100
	Mixed Berries - Frozen Fruit	A-	140	70
	Lunch
	Pro Performance Pro Crunch Lite Peanut Butter Cup	C+	42	168
	Dinner
	Ezekiel 4:9 Organic Sprouted 100% Whole Grain Flourless Bread	B+	100	80
	Radishes	A	4	1
	Squash, Summer, Zucchini, Includes Skin	A	90	14
	Veal, Loin	B	85	149
	Peppers, Sweet, Red	A	34	10
	Snacks
	Apples	A	152	75
	Ezekiel 4:9 Organic Sprouted 100% Whole Grain Flourless Bread	B+	100	80
	Becel Topping and Cooking Spray		10	0
	Almonds	B+	27	155
Total Calories Consumed				1,205
Thu, Sep 17 2009		Grade	Grams	Cals
	Breakfast
	Organics Applesauce Unsweetened	A	125	59
	Wheat Bran	A	16	30
	Canteloupe Melon	A	100	32
	Egg, White	A	74	36
	Lunch
	Pork, Fresh, Loin, Tenderloin	A-	85	122
	Squash, Summer, Zucchini, Includes Skin	A	90	14
	Asparagus	A	90	20
	Peppers, Sweet, Red	A	34	10
	Organics Applesauce Unsweetened	A	125	59
	Snacks
	Almonds	A	27	155
	Cookies, Oatmeal, Prepared From Recipe - With Raisins	B-	57	248
	Milk Chocolate Almond Bar - Chocolate Bars	C	66	330
Total Calories Consumed				1,114
Fri, Sep 18 2009		Grade	Grams	Cals
	Cream of Chicken Soup - Condensed Soup	B-	28	27
	Breakfast
	Pork, Fresh, Loin, Tenderloin	A-	85	122
	All Bran	A	50	130
	Dairyland Skim Milk Fat Free	A	142	52
	Organics Applesauce Unsweetened	A	125	59
	Lunch
	Pho Noodle Bowl - w/ Chicken Soup Base	C	300	402
	Dinner
	Asparagus	A	90	20
	Squash, Summer, Zucchini, Includes Skin	A	90	14
	Brussels Sprouts	A	90	32
	Chicken, Breast, Meat Only	B	50	83
	Broccoli	A	140	49
	Almonds	A	27	155
	Snacks
	Blue Menu Ancient Grains Snack Crackers	B+	10	42
	Strawberry Gelatin Desserts	A	184	15
Total Calories Consumed				1,201

5) Never let it slip. I know I will always be putting my fork down when I feel full; push away the remainder on my plate; and make the healthier choices 85% of the time.

That's me - and I have to be real. And I'm confident that 140 lbs is me and that I can maintain it.

Here's to Maintenance!

A little self-analysis goes a long way to change habits.

2009-08-31T19:18:00.000-07:00

I've started a daily online food journal of my, my husband's and my son's daily intake, to see where our pitfalls are and areas for improvement.

For me, I'm on track with Bernstein - all's good. A little low on the caloric intake, but clean food nonetheless.

My husband, though eats well, skyrockets on the sodium chart. A bag of microwave popcorn here - a can of Campbell's tomato soup there - replete with a side order of salt lick. Yikes! Since he has high cholesterol and high blood pressure, we've got to look at low sodium or homemade options.

For my son, who's a little underweight (but is in the refined sugar/carbs trance) I'm slowly introducing better foods - all whole wheat bread, wraps, whole wheat croissants and better snacks for school, to see what the fat/sugar/sodium count is.

I'm hoping to take the next month to analyze our meals and see how much cleaner we can get from salt/sodium/preservatives, without becoming rabid holistic Vegan cucumber nazis.

* * *

As a fun tool in the Calorie Counter site, I took the quiz on what type of eater am I. A little self-reflection to see how I originally got into the 207 lb mess I got myself in before Bernstein. While I had already come to these insights through personal introspection (and through red wine musings prior to my diet) the quiz just validated my findings. I was a mom over 40 with a career, kids with only about 10 minutes in the day to change my underwear, let alone address the myriad exercise, diet and other "me time" issues.

I let myself slide and needed help.

It also reinforces what I need to do to teach this old dog new tricks.

However, it can be done...! ;-)

* * *

EXCESSIVE EATER (you think?)

You tend to overeat, which is very common in our society. As published in the Journal of Nutrition, Education, and Behavior, the amount of food we consume is proportional to the amount of food we get served. Unfortunately, the portions in restaurants and the size of products in supermarkets have both grown tremendously over the years. Super size, anyone?
Your Eating Habits

Despite the amount of food that you consume, your diet is most likely not nutritionally balanced and does not meet your daily values of essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals. There is commonly a link between satiety and health - foods rich in fiber and that tend to fill you up quickly are usually better than foods that you can eat a lot of.
The Solution

Calorie counting and food journals are an effective method against overeating. They help you understand where your calories come from, and which foods you should be careful with. To find out how many calories you should be eating, try our Burn Meter. Also, it's a good idea to add some exercise to your daily routine. This will not only increase your calorie allowance, but it will improve your health and make you feel great!

Additional Factors

As a busy mom, your priorities are such that you always come last, and this has resulted in some extra weight over the years. Your kids are the most important thing in the world for you, and this has shifted your focus too much in their direction, so that you neglected yourself. In addition, your busy schedule makes it hard to take enough time for healthy eating and exercising.

Your weight loss success depends heavily on the cooperation of the people around you. They must allow you a little bit more time for yourself, and you could also ask some of your friends and relatives to help out with the daily workload. Last but not least, remember to ask your partner for as much support as possible. After all, your success in weight loss is just as much in his interest as it is in yours!

Daily Menu

2009-08-29T11:01:00.000-07:00

A few people have been asking me what my meal plans look like, since I've been able to achieve a 60 lb weight loss.

I have some variations, but the following shows my daily intake (give or take.)

Check out Calorie Count - it's a free menu planner/calorie counter site with helpful hints.

I'm really trying to stop eating once I feel full, and just save some of the items for later as little snacks. That really helps to keep the ketosis burning. Otherwise if you overeat (an oxymoron on this program, I know) it will halt progress

Sat, Aug 29 2009		Grade	Grams	Cals
	Breakfast (Daily vitamin & K-Lyte tablet #1)
	Egg, White - Raw, Fresh	A	74	36
	Tomatoes - Cherry, on the Vine		100	18
	Nature's Own 100% Whole Grain Sugar Free Bread	A-	50	100
	Radishes - Raw	A	4	1
	Coffee, Decaffeinated		237	0
	Organics Applesauce Unsweetened	A	125	59
	Wheat Bran	A	16	30
	SPLENDA No Calorie		20	0
	Milk, Reduced Fat, Fluid, 2% Milkfat - With Added Vitamin A	A-	8	4
	Lunch (K-Lyte tablet #2)
	Turkey, All Classes, Meat Only - Cooked, Roasted	B	100	170
	Salad, Vegetable, Tossed - Without Dressing	A	276	44
	Tomatoes - Cherry		365	69
	Celery - Raw	A	40	6
	Cucumber, Peeled - Raw	A	158	19
	Fat Free Italian Dressing	B+	17	11
	Radishes - Raw	A	6	1
	Dinner (steam all in Ziploc Steamer bag)
	Peppers, Sweet, Red - Cooked, Boiled, Drained, Without Salt	A	34	10
	Asparagus - Cooked, Boiled, Drained	A	90	20
	Squash, Summer, Zucchini, Includes Skin - Cooked, Boiled, Drained, Without Salt	A	90	14
	Brussels Sprouts - Cooked, Boiled, Drained, Without Salt	A	90	32
	Garlic - Raw	A	3	5
	Spices, Ground Black Pepper		1	0
	Chicken, Breast, Meat Only - Cooked, Roasted	B	50	83
	Snacks
	Strawberry Gelatin Desserts - Sugar Free Low Calorie	A	184	15
	Apples - Gala	A	152	75
	Lemons - Raw, Without Peel	A	212	62
	Coffee, Decaffeinated		237	0
Total Calories Consumed				881

I tend to eat an extra Jello cup instead of an apple in the evening. I'll usually eat all my meat at breakfast and lunch, and only have vegetables at supper to keep my system lighter at night.

As well, I'll only eat bread every other day, and eat instead 5 PC Ancient Grain crackers and 2 Multifibre Melba toast for the day. Much lighter and no salt.

I don't drink any Diet Coke or eat anything with aspartame (eg. Juicy Fruit gum, etc.) since it just retains water like crazy!

For tomorrow, I'll likely do the following:

Sun, Aug 30 2009		Grade	Grams	Cals
	Breakfast
	Egg, White - Raw, Fresh	A	74	36
	Spinach - Raw	A	60	14
	Tomatoes - Cherry, on the Vine		100	18
	Dill Weed, Dried	A	3	8
	Organics Applesauce Unsweetened	A	125	59
	Coffee, Decaffeinated		237	0
	Raspberries	A	15	8
	Asparagus	A	90	20
	Chicken, Breast, Meat Only - Cooked, Roasted	B	50	83
	Lunch
	Crackers, Melba Toast, Wheat	A-	10	37
	Celery	A	40	6
	Tomatoes		100	18
	Peppers, Sweet, Red	A	34	10
	Honey Maple Turkey Breast Extra Lean		99	113
	Cauliflower - Cooked, Boiled, Drained, Without Salt	A	62	14
	Broccoli - Cooked, Boiled, Drained, Without Salt	A	140	49
	Fat Free American Singles	B-	21	30
	Dinner
	Blue Menu Ancient Grains Snack Crackers	B+	10	42
	Asparagus	A	90	20
	Squash, Summer, Zucchini, Includes Skin	A	90	14
	Bok Choy, 1/2 head, raw - Veggie Nutrition Facts	A	113	14
	Becel Topping and Cooking Spray		10	0
	Curry Paste - Tandoori		25	28
	Sauce, Soy		15	5
	Tomatoes		100	18
	Snacks
	Oranges - Raw, California, Navels	A	140	69
	Coffee, Decaffeinated		237	0
Total Calories Consumed				730

As you can see, I add some spices for variety - tandoori curry, garlic, pepper and others when I want to dress up the veggies and meat. I also use cayenne pepper (excellent for the circulation) or basil, oregano, dill and a ix of Provence spices for flavour.

Here's my Monday look-ahead plan. Note I always eat the heaviest meat in the morning and lunch, to fill my belly and give me energy throughout the day.

As a weigh-in trick too, I will take my vitamins and a small amount of protein before weighing in at the clinic; then eat the rest and have my coffee once I get to work (around 8 a.m.) That way I'm not an extra 8 oz for weigh-in...

Mon, Aug 31 2009		Grade	Grams	Cals
	Breakfast
	Beef, Top Sirloin - Separable Lean Only, Trimmed To 1/4" Fat, Select, Cooked, Broiled	B+	99	184
	Organics Applesauce Unsweetened	A	125	59
	Coffee, Decaffeinated		237	0
	Nature's Own 100% Whole Grain Sugar Free Bread	A-	25	50
	Lunch
	Light Dressing	A	16	37
	Egg, White	A	74	36
	Celery	A	40	6
	Blue Menu Ancient Grains Snack Crackers	B+	10	42
	Apples	A	152	75
	Cucumber, Peeled	A	50	6
	Chicken, Breast, Meat Only	B	50	83
	Dinner
	Bok Choy, 1/2 head, raw	A	113	14
	Asparagus	A	90	20
	Squash, Summer, Zucchini, Includes Skin	A	90	14
	Peppers, Sweet, Red	A	34	10
	Cauliflower	A	62	14
	Snacks
	Lemons	A	212	62
	Coffee, Decaffeinated		237	0
Total Calories Consumed				710

Hope this helps!

7 pounds to go!

2009-08-29T08:21:00.000-07:00

Well, I must admit, I returned to the strict diet. I don't think I was quite ready for the Maintenance Program. Not that I didn't welcome the additional foods I could reintegrate, but I wasn't pleased with myself that I wasn't at my goal weight of 140.

So, I returned to the strict diet to lose the last 10 pounds and go from there.

POST SCRIPT: It's funny too. Last week I just had the ravenous cravings for chocolate and sweets, and what came along? My period. I never have cravings for sweets, and haven't felt the need to eat them while on the strict diet before, but all of sudden it was like an all-consuming need to eat chocolate. Then came Aunt Flo. A coincidence? I think not. One thing I've learned on the diet is that your body tells you what it needs, and when it needs it, and signals the onset of things before you even realize it. Iron, chocolate, salt - when you're menstruating, your body sends some interesting signals to the brain. I just substituted chocolate cupcakes with the Dr. Bernstein Protein Chocolate & Peanut Butter Bar = 1P to satisfy my craving.

I'm now down to 146.8 lbs as of Friday, so only 7 more to go!

The nice thing about the Bernstein program is that it is focussed on your needs, so I had no problem going in on Tuesday (for the Maintenance check-in) to report that I wanted to come back on Strict on Wednesday. Seamless - no issues - and totally supportive when I expressed that I want to be at 140 before I start.

This time, once I use up my credits to the end of 140 lbs, I'll be better prepared to do Maintenance on my own. I can always pop in for a month of maintenance at $150 if I feel I need it.

* * *

New Clothes

As a treat to myself, I received in the mail some clothes I ordered. A bad idea usually, since you never quite know if the fit is going to be right, but I took the plunge anyway with the end-of-season sales.

JCrew was my shop of choice, and I picked up some lovely items. I'll take pictures shortly, but suffice to say the lovely Jackie O-style silk and summer sheath dresses are to die for! I will still get them slightly altered (straps as usual) and I'll need to find those weird bras that are necessary for low-back revealing dresses, but a small inconvenience for my new look.

I also got my new size 10 pants altered a little (waist was a little too big) so I'm ready for work on Monday!

Body Wrap

I also spent the morning on Friday at a local spa getting an Anti-Aging Body Wrap. If you haven't tried it yet, it's quite an experience. You're mummified (except your face) and through a series of apparatus and vitamin and mineral treatments, your lymphatic system excretes toxins and excess water from your body, resulting in some minimal inch loss and health benefits.

Of course they discuss the homeopathic diet alternatives, mainly the Alkaline/Acid Diet, and the evils of sugar, etc.

As I reviewed their espoused diet 70 Alkaline/30 Acidic approach, it looks quite similar to the Bernstein approach. The key is to focus on the fruits and vegetables, and balance the protein, while removing the over-acidic foods that are so prevalent in our North American diet.

I'm going to take some time today to deconstruct the Strict Diet (my food selections) within the Alkaline/Acid framework and Calorie framework, to see where I sit.

I think it will help me gauge when I start Maintenance, of what I'm reintroducing to balance the calories and nutrients and have a bit of a roadmap for myself.

The nice thing about the Alkaline/Acid framework is that it allows for 4oz of "good quality red wine" daily. Sign me up for that!

Why is it so hard to believe in yourself?

2009-08-23T09:22:00.000-07:00

I think the biggest problem for me in managing the transition from the Strict Diet to Maintenance is that I really fared well under the microscope of the trice-weekly monitoring at the clinic.

You can't cheat because they will catch you. The evidence is in the pee..!

Here, on the Maintenance, you are alone to your own devices and are not even required to come in if you "can't make it." You still have to keep your eating journal (which is mine 100% accurate - no!)

I'd rather come in twice a week - Tuesdays AND Thursdays, just to know I'm on track.

I feel like I'm being fed to the food wolves, without having my clinic conscience there to guide me and steer me through my eating temptation and dilemmas.

To me this is the hardest test - can I make it on my own and guide my own eating behaviour?

It's taking some work, and I think with this first week under my belt (and some added guilt from the sugar rush and screaming halt on my ketosis burning) I'll have to get myself back on track.

If not, then I might just go back on the Strict Diet to reach my full 140 loss and then ease back into Maintenance. Otherwise, I just fear that I won't make it and will jeopardize what I've achieved through stupid choices and mistakes.

Week 1 Maintenance - all over the map

2009-08-23T09:09:00.000-07:00

For the most part, my Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday menu from last week was riddled with problems of the cupcake kind. I topped off the carnage on Thursday evening when we went out for dinner with friends to a buffet where I stayed along the salad bar side and grazed the vieggies, with the odd dollop of squash or sauteed zucchini. However, I could not resist the dessert table and scored a small square of brownie, and picked at my daughter's Nanaimo bar.

What is wrong with me?! I don't even particularly LIKE chocolate and here I'm in mad pursuit of it in any shape or form?

By Friday night I marched into MEXX and purchased some new items, got my nails done and proceeded to purchase a digital scale (with calorie function) to check my weight.

I needed to be sure that I didn't just undo in three days what I had worked so hard for.

Luckily, I was still at 149 lbs, but certainly didn't go down at all as the nurse said I would continue to.

My daily regime was building up on the proteins to 8 oz per day. 10 oz seems a lot to me, since I was even undercutting my protein on the strict diet to only 5-6 oz per day. I did have the 4 whole eggs throughout the week though, since I much prefer the taste to the egg whites. However, for Sunday breakfast I used one whole egg and supplemented it with 3 egg whites for a tastier omelette.

I am sticking with the 16 oz veggies, with the odd little addition here and there. I'm fine with 1 fruit per day, since I'm not a huge fruit or juice fan, and my breads are fine too.

I've added the cheese option (a few slices for my crackers or meals) which has always been my downfall, so I'm watching that.

Otherwise, I had a heart-to-heart with my husband and told him that I really just can't have cupcakes and sweets in the house right now. It's going to be my downfall, and I need his help.

He asked if he could make some popcorn.

I said that would be fine.

I didn't even have a kernel.

Week 19 of the diet / Week 1 of Maintenance

2009-08-23T08:24:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday I went in for my Maintenance consultation. I was so excited to learn about all the good things that await me when I get to my goal weight. I was feeling very desperate to start eating some other foods. I think I was feeling quite deprived due to the summer traveling we were doing. Montreal, with all the fine restaurants; friends visiting with wine and bbqs, and my daughter's upcoming birthday, replete with cake and snacks.

I arrived and weighed in at 49.5 lbs - wow, only 9 more lbs to go!

The nurse complimented me and said I was one of the success stories, and if I wanted to, could start the program right away.

WOW!! I was ready - pumped - psyched, and listened eagerly to the program breakdown. I fingered through the two new program "bibles" that would unlock the gastronomic delights that be available to me.

The Maintenance program allows for a smooth transition from the strict diet to gradually re-introducing some new foods and portions. While you stay on the daily multivitamin, you decrease on Saturday your potassium to half the dosage. The additional potassium is too hard on your heart if you're not in ketosis, so it's a half tablet in the morning and half at lunch - and that's it!

Here's the Week 1 breakdown:

Proteins: You jump from 7 oz total to 8-10 oz total, and can now reintroduce other forms of beef (eg. extra lean ground beef) and also stick to the other meats on the diet. Along with egg whites, I can now have up to 4 whole eggs (yes, yolks included) per week, any style. And yes, you can ven use a little bit of butter or margarine if need be. (I don't since it's my downfall, and continue using PAM spray or Becel no-calorie spray.)

Dairy: Instead of 1 tablespoon milk per day, we drop down to 2 teaspoons only, given the increase in fats from other sources. We can also add 2 oz of hard cheese (fat free preferred) which is quite a bit! I only have a couple of slices with some crackers - that suffices.

Vegetables: Alongside the strict veggies, I can now add some real stir fry veggies, such as water chestnuts, bamboo shoots, snow pea pods and for added variety, can have turnips! There are others like okra and eggplant, but I've never been much of a fan, so I ignore those... Still not carrots, peas, corn, potatoes or rice (have to wait a month for those.)

Breads: No deviation from the 2 slices Betty Lite bread or my crackers or melba toast until Week 2, when I can add 1 cup of cereal (eg. Corn Flakes, Special K or bran flakes) and 1 cup milk back into the routine.

Fruits: For the first week, we drop down to 1 fruit only, or have instead 6 oz of unsweetened fruit juice. This is actually fine with me, since my fruit usually gets put into my bran "muffin" as applesauce, or now on Maintenance, can go into my 4 oz of fat free plain Danone yoghurt (with Splenda of course for sweetness.) That's a new addition that I welcome! However, you get to add in the previously omitted fruits from the strict diet. Apparently not mango or such (though the booklet doesn't specify which ones we are to omit) but you can now add onto the fruit selection list.

There are some other items that are now available too: oil & vinegar dressing or low cal Roquefort/Caesar dressings.

Not a jam sugar, syrup or starch in sight for a long time yet though. Which segues into my problem in Week 1 of Maintenance.

***

As I mentioned, there were lots of temptations in the last couple of weeks that were drawing my like a moth to a culinary flame - literally.

I think I literally snapped the moment I left the clinic. Now with some new options available, and ready for lunch, I marched into the cafeteria at work and bought a banana. I ate it on the way up to my office. Why (I thought) did I do that? I had already had a fruit for breakfast, which would have been my daily quota, and here I was eating a banana? I don't even crave bananas, or particularly like them? I felt mad at myself that literally 20 minutes out of the clinic and I was eating with reckless abandon.

It got worse...

I got home to prepare supper for my daughter and I (since dad and friends were away for the day) and she asked for Kraft Macaroni & Cheese for her "birthday" supper. Easy and quick I thought, so I prepared it. As I was busy organizing the house, I didn't get my food ready and was really resenting having to pull out my standard meat and 8 oz veggies bags for another meal.

What did I do? I served her up half the KD, and I devoured the other half....Not even elegantly or discretely. I didn't arrange it on a plate for myself at the supper table with my daughter. No. I used the wooden spoon used to stir it and ate it directly from the pot...over the sink...like a desperate starving glutton. It tasted gross - like fake cheese puddy in a gelatenous muck.

Why was I eating this garbage? What was motivating me to just throw away four months of discipline and regime for KD of all things?

I just rationalized it a couple of hours later that yes, it had been four months, and after losing almost 60 lbs, I deserved to indulge a little bit. What happened only half an hour later was the ultimate nail in the coffin.

* * *

As I lovingly decorated my daughter's 4th birthday Angel Food cake with vanilla icing, bedecked with sprinkles of every sort and colour, candes and princess flags, my mouth watered to taste a sample. I resisted, but was literally coveting the size, shape, colour and smell of it.

Now normally my trick for resisting temptation was to inhale a giant smell of the forbidden food (be it popcorn, wine, chips, or whatever the culprit) until my olifactory senses "tasted" it and my body seemed satisfied for the experience, without ingesting a thing. I used that trick throughout my diet and it worked.

However, just as I thought I was fine, my husband returned from Montreal with 6 "designer" cupcakes from a fancy patisserie to celebrate her birthday. What?!! Here were were in the kitchen with a huge cake and 6 beautiful cupcakes directly in my midst. Well, wouldn't you know it. Here came two of my husband's friends visiting who were also in Montreal, who also purchased 6 cupcakes from the same bakery, also for her birthday...!! For four adults and 1 child, we had a full dozen rich and decadent cupcakes and a full birthday cake to devour.

I was at my whits end.

As we lit the candles and cut the cake for the guests, I sliced up an equally large slice for myself and thoroughly enjoyed the soft, silky cake and thin layer of icing that enveloped the treat. And for the next two days, I indulged in a slice or a cupcake, as the temptation served to be too great for my resistance.

Dr. Bernstein please forgive me for I have sinned....

Week 19 - 57 lbs down and only 10 more to go!!

2009-08-17T13:56:00.000-07:00

Image by karen.tkr via Flickr

I'm jumping for joy with a spring in my step. I'm officially down to 150 today.

Do you know what that means?

10 more pounds until I reach my goal weight of 140! Holy S&%*!!

I was so good this weekend. We had a Friday lunchtime soccer match with some colleagues (in the 30+ 0C heat) and got in some good cardio for a half hour. Then for the weekend, I did some walking and stuck to the diet religiously (of course.) That yielded a good 3 lb drop for today's weigh-in.

It's interesting though. I've cut back my liquids to 2 litres only - and really spaced it out throughout the day. I didn't have any pop (no Diet Coke or Coke Zero) and took 2 Senokot.S tablets with each meal, which really kept things moving. I have come to realize that the Aspartame holds is the water retainer and evil culprit to my weight loss success. Good riddance!

I checked my urine with the pee-sticks (my very technical term) a few times a day and I was a consistent 2 (++) burn. Not bad.

Anyway, I go for my Maintenance Consultation tomorrow to see what the revised diet holds that I'll be on and see what I can reintegrate. I reall yhope I see some popcorn and maybe a glass of wine in there somewhere...

140's - here I come!

Something interesting happening

2009-08-13T16:55:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Well, it's been a full week since I last posted since returning from the AC/DC concert in Montreal. What a show!

I was salivating walking down Rue St. Catherine at all the boutiques and shops thinking that I just MUST come back for a weekend to do some shopping when I get down to my goal weight.

I weighed in on Monday and had a good 2 lb loss. I should hope so, since I didn't have my food with me when I decided to spend the entire afternoon and evening at the Montreal Olympic Stadium and endure watching my son pig out on pizza, popcorn and pop, while I nursed the only thing I could imbibe on the diet...water. No beer for me at this concert...

So I came in at 154 lbs, as expected. However, for the last week, I've been hovering at the 154 and even crept up a lb (llikely due to just having eaten a full lunch and water.) I'm not impressed...

I'm feeling quite hungry lately after months of feeling just fine. I'm checking my ketones and I'm burning, but nothing is happening.

I attribute it to the fact that I've started having the odd Coke Zero and diet Coke again, and ading the odd pinch of salt to my meals for flavour. Geez - can the salt and aspartame be that water-retaining?

I felt the need for some shopping therapy, which was timely and highly justified because I was outgrowing some of my pants for work again. Again, being the end of the season, I got some great deals at Talbots, MEXX and even tried on a designed jacket at Escada. I promptly put the $1,200 jacket back on the hanger, but came out with 5 new pair of pants. I must say my $13.45 pair of size 10 jeans fit like a glove and look great!

Size 10 - can you believe it! I still can't.

I think that's the biggest thing I'm dealing with now: adjusting my mental image of myself as having been a 16/18 for the last 5 years, and 12/14 the previous 5 years to that. 10 years of being overweight. I need to reprogram my self image.

For me a big part of it is to purge my wardrobe once clothes no longer fit me, and purchase new form fitting clothing. It helps me see and feel the change. When the store clerk looked at me and estimated a size 8/10, I actually laughed. She looked at me puzzled and I told her that I'm just in the process of losing weight, so for years I was always 16/18. She looked at me amazed, and when she handed me a cool, trendy, stylish and very expensive jacket in size 10, and it fit perfectly, it hit me that I'm actually doing it. I'm actually reinventing myself back to what I was, and wearing the styles and clothes that reflect my personality and image.

It feels so good.

It will be interesting to see what my weigh-in is tomorrow. I can't do anything more than I am: sticking to the program 100%. However, I think I've found my own personal weight-gain culprit.

That damned salt....

I just can't live with it I guess.

64 oz or more liquids

2009-08-05T11:22:00.001-07:00

Well, I'm quite impressed. I'm down to 156 lbs today, and on Tuesday I go in for my Maintenance consultation. The clinic offers the Maintenance consultation to patients in view of their goal so you know what to expect and to keep you motivated. No doubt to also encourage sticking with the program through Maintenance.

I'll let you know what I find out.

INSTRUCTIONS:

It's a funny thing on the diet. You're required to drink at least 2 litres (or 64 oz) of liquids per day, with at least 1 litre of that being fresh water. Now, with my freshly squeezed lemon/Splenda/water potion, it tastes so good, I've been quaffing 4 litres of the stuff alone per day. It helps me stay away from the nasty diet pop and coffee, which I can easily fall back into relying on.

PROBLEMATIQUE:

Here's the problem. While I've been consistently losing and meeting my bi-weekly weight loss targets, when I have to provide my pee-samples, my ketones are registering very low: a trace (-), 1 (+) or a 2 (++) at best.

Hmmmmmm :-(

ANALYSIS & EVIDENCE:

When I met with the doctor yesterday for my regular consult, he said not to worry - the more liquids the better. However, today the nurse said to stay within 2-3 litres maximum per day. Too much liquid washes away the potassium which helps fuel the ketosis.

I must say that when I look back on my diet sheets, I did have the best "burn" when I had a coffee for breakfast and an 8oz glass of lemon water for the morning, without anything extra. I don't particularly like schlepping my 2 litre jug of water to meetings with me. With moderate liquid intake, I was a consistent 4 (++++) at weigh-in. I would then drink most of my liquids in the afternoon, and have another glass only in the evening with my sacred Strawberry jello cup snack.

CLINIC PRESCRIPTION:

As punishment for delivering a "trace pee", I am banished again for two days from eating fruits to get the burn activated again. No worries though. Armed with my own ketosis sticks at home I can test my burn-efficacy.

SOLUTION:

I'm just going to reduce my lemon/Splenda potion by a litre, and see if that helps.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

Otherwise, only another 3 weeks on program to get to my goal weight. I feel (and look!) just great!

I'm sure I'll be okay. I certainly didn't cheat on the diet, so I know it's not from any sugar interlopers, starch or fats creeping into my system.

But I cannot tell a lie: I do occasionally covet the poutine truck sitting on the corner of Sparks and Bank, and the sausage stand outside the Dr. Bernstein Clinic.

They look tempting...but no...

Week 15 - down 46 lbs and counting

2009-07-25T14:25:00.000-07:00

Finally, I found Betty Lite bread... it took 15 weeks, but I managed to find it.

The elusive 100% whole wheat bread that yields you 2 full slices per day (more tangible food than any other bread item) can be found in Ottawa at the Produce Depot on Carling Ave, or at the Independent Grocer on Bank Street by Hunt Club. It's not on the Gatineau side, that's for sure. What a nice change it is to finally have some toast for breakfast, or a cold cut sandwich for lunch. Mmmmmm

I was quite tired this week though. It may have been the combination of work burnout and just waiting for vacation to come, or the diet. I was being lazy and taking my K-Lite tablets twice daily. However, the nurse on Friday told me to break it up quarterly - the K-Lite is so fast acting that my body probably needs he more frequent intake throughout the day to help with the energy level. I'm not so sure about that. It's Saturday today, and my first day of vacation. I'm still feeling quite bagged. (Note to Reader: As luck would have it, after writing this, Aunt Flo paid a visit. I should've known, since that usually knocks out my energy...)

I learned a valuable lesson though that you just can't put anything past the ketosis-o-meter. I attended a gathering on Tuesday night with colleagues and nibbled on what looked to be an innocuous cracker. However, after one tiny nibble, the pumpernickle, sunflower seed and obviously sugar-encrusted morsel stopped my fat-burning cold. My punishment? Two days relegated to diet isolation for me from the nurses - no fruit for two whole days. My consolation? I could load up on three jello cups in lieu. Hmmmm....

Luckily after my two days fruit-penance I was back to a two (++) burn and didn't seem to lose and fat-burning momentum.

As a treat, I started my vacation last night with a jaunt to the National Arts Centre last night to see the touring Broadway production of Grease. A super show, with a special treat of meeting Taylor Hicks of American Idol fame. I like his music, so as I sent my son in line to get a CD signed, Taylor glanced up at me and gave me a nice warm smile and we locked eyes. Feeling like a million bucks in my skinny jeans and jacket, I felt like a million bucks. What a handsome guy...how attractive I felt!

Plus, when I came home, my mom had arrived for a visit for the period of our vacation. I hadn't seen her for four months - since before I started the diet. She was utterly dumbfounded when I walked into the house. She said "wow, what a difference - how beautiful I looked - that I looked fantastic." My mother-in-law was also visiting this week and whispered in my ear that she was so proud of me. It makes me feel good to know others see the difference.

Every weigh-in day I come home and proudly say to my husband, "Guess what I weigh now!?" On Friday he smiled lovingly at my exhortation of "161"as my new lowest weight, then tongue-in-cheek says" Not good enough!" We both know my goal is 140, so he eggs me on to keep going, all the while giving me a nice smack on the butt. Our little game.

However, I'm proud most of myself - to give myself this gift of health and to let me return to my sense of self and image.

And so, with a final leg of 21 lbs to go - a little over 1 month left - I can honestly say that I'm not in the homestretch, but in it for the longhaul.

I'll never be finished with the Bernstein program. Once I reach my goal weight I will be a lifer.

I never want to lose this again - my health or my shape or my happiness.

Only 21 more lbs to go (or a little more than one month left) to reach my goal of 140. Steady she goes....

Halitosis, and other great side effects

2009-07-20T15:31:00.001-07:00

Image by vasta via Flickr

I was most intrigued to learn that ketosis, or the fat burned, seems to actually cause bad breath.

Luckily I've never had a problem previously, due to my thrice-daily brushing and flossing ritual. However, about 6 weeks into the diet I noticed my breath was no longer minty-fresh. What to do?

As I learned, the ketones/fat burned through are excreted through perspiration, urine, and exhaled breath. Apparently (and I can attest to my own personal experience) ketones are very unpleasant smelling.

I liken it to an elderly person's breath who wears their dentures for two weeks straight without cleaning or rinsing. Believe me - it's a tear-jerker!

The build up of ketones in your blood is called Ketosis. If you have diabetes, are on a low calorie diet, or if you have inadequate carbohydrate intake, Ketones can build up in your blood to levels which result in Halitosis.

What can you do?

Well, keep up the regular oral hygiene (or step it up if you're a little lax in that department) and use a bit of Scope throughout the day, or before that important meeting with your boss about a raise...

While I first freaked out thinking that the alcohol (since its verboten on the diet) is a key ingredient, the nurses assured me that since it's in the mouth for such a short period of time, it doesn't have enough time to absorb in the body to affect ketosis.

So, bad breath plaguing you? Add a swig of scope or two - that'll cure what ails ya.

Preferred menu for me

2009-07-17T17:13:00.000-07:00

By the third month, I can say that I've tried a lot of combinations and techniques to keep the menu fresh and exciting.

A little review - for your benefit.

MONTH ONE: Going for gold (in one shopping trip)

I think as an overall reflection on the first few weeks on the diet, I was, well, a little overzealous.

In my defence though, that is true to my nature. I will always plunge in the deep end or dedicate myself to something 110%. I zealously scrutinize and memorize the entire program, and try to reap the full benefits as soon as possible. It's like learning a federal policy authority...okay, I'm a little hellbent on policy. I digress...

For the first three weeks, I would lovingly choose a wide variety of meats from the list: a little lean beef, the full three servings of bison, chicken, turkey and some of the PC honey maple turkey slices. I had the full allowable. While I love caribou, it's a little difficult to source. Plus, I'd rather leave the precious little that might make it's way into urban Ottawa for my Inuit friends to enjoy.

Back to the meat. I cut and measured them into the appropriate 2 oz or 3 oz portions for a total of 7 oz daily.

Given that it's important to have your meals ready to go, to keep the protein moving and blood sugar levels steady, I lovingly placed all the meat on a broiling rack and individually spiced each piece. I had some with garlic, salt and pepper; mustard, the tomato-cum-sauce paste mix, Patak's tandoori, yellow curry and myriad other spices to keep my interest peaked. Once everything was cooked, I would try to remember which was a 2 oz piece versus 3 oz piece, and grouped 7 oz worth into little Ziploc baggies for freezing and later heating and use. I'm sure I messed that up, not figuring on the fact that it would shrink and all become tiny pebble-sized morsels by the time they were cooked.

As for fruits, I was selecting and preparing portions from the full range available. I had strawberries, canteloupe, oranges, grapefruit and applesauce. It was exhausting to prepare them all, so I ended up buying small containers of pre-cut fruits. Plus, I didn't find I liked the variety. I realized that I don't eat that many fruits regularly, so I honed in apples and applesauce and grapefruit, and those became my staples. I only eat them in the morning anyway, so that was easy to "streamline."

The vegetables were just as complex as my meat and fruit scheme.

I purchased the full range of available veggies from the list immediately once I started the program. Yes, even fiddleheads... Now who the hell even eats fiddleheads, and what dark cavernous corner of a swamp do these things come from?! Strange organic matter...and no matter what you try to spice it up with, you can never get them to taste good. You can never seem to rinse all the dirt out of them either. Strike - off the list.

I remember coming home and single-handedly commandeering the fridge with all the vegetables I had. Everything fresh of course, but until I realized that I could only eat 16oz worth in total per day, I realized I had over-purchased.

I was using veggies in everything, but it was so time consuming and labour intensive to have to prep everything I was using for every meal, that my hunger completely took over.

I was having salads with chopped veggies on top; veggies in omelettes; crudite veggies for lunch; boiled or roasted veggies for supper. Everything was taking so much longer to prepare - and I was starving.

So, I spent an evening, bought a plastic container with removable compartments and a lid, and took all my vegetables that were bursting out of my fridge, and cut them all up. Radishes, cucumbers, plum and tiny tomatoes, my green onions, celery, spinach, bok choy, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower...even the dreaded fiddleheads.

I had it all.

I had initiative and energy.

I had it down to an art.

I had enough food for an army.

I had hard rock morsels of dry meat...yum...

Lesson Learned: It was exhausting....though did yield a full 20 lbs loss in 4 weeks. Food was certainly diverse and flavourful, but meat lacked freshness. Two fruits were honed in as my favs and staples, and remain the key for me.

MONTH TWO: Settling for bronze

After the meat experience, I was drawn to experiment with egg whites for my protein. If I couldn't prepare in advance meat that I could just reheat without fearing I would choke, I'd try an alternate protein method.

First I made egg white omelettes. It was alright, loaded with veggies and spices, but a little labour intensive at times. Plus, I didn't want to eat eggs at every meal. I had hardboiled eggs (sans the "sun" as my son calls it); egg white omelettes; egg mixed with wheat bran and fruit/Splenda for mini morning muffins; eggs topped with salsa for a Mexican flavour, or eggs with the fat free cheese slathered over top. By the second week I didn't see my ketosis running any higher, and I was really getting sick of eggs...

So by week 8, I went back to the meat apportioning-pre-cooking method. Adios my Mexican eggs. Instead, I went eastern.

I LOVE tandoori/curry spices. If I could eat butter chicken and NAN all day I would. So I was very surprised to see a recipe in the Dr. B. recipe book and tried it. It was great!! I used the Aylmer's stewed tomatoes, peppers, green onion, chicken and loaded up the curry, coriander, allspice and pepper. Eureka - I found my new fav dish!

I cut up enough ingredients to bag and freeze 3-4 days worth.

All was good until the doctor said - only eat tomatoes and peppers in moderation. Sure, now he tells me. I had enough of the mix for lunch and supper meals to set up my own curry IV drip.

Back to the drawing board...

The pre-cutting veggies idea was working for me. I could just grab a handful (measure of course) but got the hang of how much I needed for the week.

So in my bi-weekly scoping of the grocery store aisles, I came across an amazing, though environmentally dubious, invention called the Ziploc steamer bags. Well - this might work to speed up my meal prep!

Seven bags in a package lets you throw any imaginable combination in the bag, including spices. After 2-3 mins, your veggies are steamed to perfection and lightly spiced. Yahoo!

MONTH THREE: Dissing Mother Earth in search of fast and fresh living

I'm actually paring down a little on my protein. More by choice than anything. I was finding that by eating the full 7 oz per day, I wasn't really losing that much. Incremental progress. So I experimented.

In week 9 I ate 2 oz at breakfast, then another 3 oz at lunch, and only veggies and a bread for supper. I did not feel any hungrier; no weakness, light headedness, etc. What did happen though was that my ketosis burn was consistent and never dropped. A full 2 (++) burn. With 7 oz I would only be a trace or 1 (+). I feel better and am burning a half pound consistently per day.

And what I am eating for meat you may ask? Chicken mainly - and yes - a few eggs again. I had worked in turkey, but unless it's a Christmas turkey dripping with butter and sage, thyme and stuffing, I can do without it.

As for my veggies? The steamer bags it is for me.

I buy two packs: 14 bags in total for a week's worth of lunch and supper veggies. I then cut and wash the following:

3 zucinni (small) cut in half for six portions
2 large bundles of asparagus (cut tips to half stock)
1 box of cherry tomatoes
1 bag of small bok choy (baby size)
1 large green pepper
1 head of cauliflower (small)
1 head of broccoli (small)
1 bunch of green onions (left whole)

Once I cut everything up and leave in fairly large sizes, I add a little bit of everything into one bag, up to 8 oz. I add coarse pepper, and if I want, some curry or tandoori, fresh chopped garlic or other spices to preference. Or, I leave them unsullied and pure, in case I want to throw them on a salad. Not friggin' likely though...I've come to realize that I just don't like salad that much. That was probably my first private "ah-ha" moment on the diet, and realized that I just prefer rough cut steamed veggies or crudite more than anything else.

So that's what I do now.

I can still use the mix for a stir fry, broil, steam or raw crudite, and the mix is diverse and as varied as I want it.

Now all I need to do is pull a bag from the fridge and it's ready to go.

I'm also using them for meat as well - separately from the veggies of course. While I don't prepackage the meat and let it sit for several days until I use it, I'll rinse the meat, weigh it, season it and pop it in the microwave bag. It's fast and fresh for breakfast and lunch, and with the steam approach, it's tender and moist.

I have found my technology, quick pace and fav foods that I now know work for me.

I have found flavour, diversity, ease and freshness.

I have found it through technology.

So, while I'm not religious, I could see my diet confessional going something like this:

"Please forgive me Mother Earth for I have sinned...it has been 4 hours since my last confession - at least since my last protein installment.

I have replaced 45 lbs of flab on my body with an equal amount of guilt for my contribution to burgeoning landfills due to the bags I'm using.

However, I am bringing my own plastic food tray and stainlees steel utensils to work...!"

I'll go prostrate myself now to the landfill gods....

A good dilemma to have: clothes shopping

2009-07-14T18:37:00.000-07:00

Image by StreetFly JZ via Flickr

Well, I am officially 43 lbs lighter than when I started.

I can't believe it... I just can't believe it!

I was feeling so silly at work last week. It was Monday morning, and I pulled out some pants - light size 14 capris, recently purchased - appropriate for my back-to-back meetings slated for the day.

I slipped them on, and I stared as they hung like a wet paper bag.

Here I was only two weeks previously, shopping at MEXX, and jumping for joy that I could slip into a size 14. A little snug in the hips (of course) but good in the waist. However, here I was, my pins floating in the pant legs, and searching for a belt (no loops) to keep them from slipping down and looking baggy.

No luck - I looked like such a shlub!

I chuckled with my colleague who suggested I get them taken in. Normally I would, but the amazing thing with this diet is that literally every 2 weeks, you're dropping down a full size.

I just added them to the next clothing stack of things that are waiting to pass along to friends or to take to Value Village. I'll be packing up my winter coats too.

So - I brought my daughter shopping right away that evening, to replenish my wardrobe with some pants for work. Of course, I had to bring her to Mrs. Tiggy Winkles after she endured a good chunk of time for my needs. Actually, she had a great time critiquing my selections.

What did I come away with? Two pants in size 12 and one in size...10! The first time since I was 25 years old - geez - memories of 16 years ago. I also bought a bikini (size L, instead of XL or 1X!) Yes, a bikini.

I also had to buy new bras (again) this week. I've gone down from a 40DD to a 36C.

They don't mess around with the inches, I tell you. I can easily button up a very expensive jacket I bought last year in Toronto (which was far too tight, but the material was just gorgeous) to now it fitting comfortably, elegantly and properly.

I didn't want to buy too much because I still have another 20-25 lbs to lose. Luckily the summer collections are on sale now, making room for the fall collections.

It's a nice problem to have...but I feel like I'll need a part-time job just to afford a whole new winter professional wardrobe I'll need at my final weight.

Here I come Montreal - shopping!!!

(I wonder if they still sell those tight Jordache jeans with the embroidery on the back pocket...)
;-)

Modifying the water/lemon potion

2009-07-14T18:23:00.000-07:00

Image by NiinaC via Flickr

Into my third month, I found I was getting some stomach pains. I started checking some of the staples I was eating, to narrow down the culprit. Two things seems to correlate to my pains:

1) The RealLemon concentrate I was using in my water seems to be the key problem. After about two weeks, the taste seemed to be too harsh, even with the Splenda. Then, after each gulp I was getting pangs in my stomach. That was it - RealLemon was quickly punted out of the fridge and into the garbage.

Solution: I used just fresh water for a few days then went back to squeezing fresh lemons.

Now I go through about 12 lemons every two-days; recruiting my 4-year old daughter into child labour to help squeeze the lemons (she loves it - she's "cooking," she says...!) We have an electric juicer - relax....

Anyway, the yield is good for about 4-6 litres, and with liberal amounts of Splenda, it's the best pulp-filled fresh lemonade around!

And guess what - no stomach pains!

2) I also found that I was relying on the PC honey maple turkey slices a little too much. I went cold-turkey (no pun intended) for a week, bought another pack the following week (because they are so convenient for lunches and quick protein), but I was having some pains again. Hmmm...might stay off them again for a bit.

Solution: I just went back to regular chicken.

So, as the nurses say, you should feel 110% on the diet. If you don't, check your potassium levels first, and then check your foods.

You just might be using a product with chemicals or additives that work against you.

Ringtone, keytone - what the?

2009-07-08T14:13:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

When you go in for your thrice-weekly weigh-in and needle-pokefest, your urine gets scrutinzed at the same time.

It's actually a little fun - you get instant feedback on whether you're burning that flab and how high your engine is running.

Now, I usually eat breakfast around 7 a.m - protein first, some fruit, coffee, pills/potassium and a large glass of my lemon/Splenda/water potion. It gives me a full belly, lots of energy, and a full bladder by the time I reach the clinic.

My regular 8 a.m. weigh-in usually requires a morning urine sample. I just bypass the sign-in and head to the ladies room.

Now, you usually need to provide a Monday and Wednesday Morning Urine (MU) sample; occasionally the nurses will request a Friday Evening Urine (EU) sample. Samples should be taken one (1) hour after eating. Hence, my pit stop upon reaching the clinic is perfect timing.

I don't come from a medical background, and am the furthest removed possible from the profession in my day-to-day career, so I listen quite intently when ketosis - or the Krebs Cycle - is explained to me. Do I understand it? Only to the point where the doctor rationalizes that it is the 4-hour separation between eating the protein that fuels the 8-enzyme chain process to burn the fat... Sounds good to me.

Now, the purpose of the urine exploration phase of the diet is quite interesting to me. I'm no lab tech, but to see science in action for me is, well, fun.

At each visit, the urine sample you've lovingly safeguarded or just produced, is tested using a reagent strip for urinalysis. (Translation for the layman: it's like a little paper dipstick with colour squares that change depending on the intel your urine is about to impart.) For those who have experienced such scientific miracles, it's like the pregnancy test stick, but this time the pink indicator means something a little bit different...!

Well, little did I know, but you can purchase these strips for your own home use...because I just can't get enough of the scientific fun, and I feel compelled to check my fat burning machine on a regular (daily, sometimes twice daily) need-to-know basis.

There are two types of strips my clinic uses: the regular weekly ketone strip (to measure only your level of fat burn) or a monthly comprehensive strip that lights up like a rainbow, decoding a wide variety of secrets such as sugar levels and any number of medical facts about you.

I really only care about the keytones. I run between a 1-4, with 1 being the lowest, but still evidencing a burn of fat, to 4 being the home fires are raging!

Now, since I've taken such an interest in my new found keytones/fat burning process, I purchased my own personal supply of reagent strips for some mad science experiments. However, I bought them during the week that I mistakenly bought the sugar-laden applesauce, which halted my fat-burning. I didn't know that I was eating "evil food" at the time, but the strips didn't lie. I just wasn't sure what was happening: the strips kept showing a negative reading.

I was perplexed: I was burning consistently from Day 1 of the diet, and often quite high every week previously, so why weren't these strips working?

Duds, I thought. $16 down the drain...

It turns out though, that strips work just fine. I tested them again over the course of the week, after my body was cleansed from the sugar interlopers, and I'm consistently burning (1,2 or 4 and losing.)

Whew! Science in action...

So, if you want to check your keytones, go to your neighbourhood pharmacy (or one of the larger chains) and ask for Bayer Keto-Diastix. It's $16 for 100 strips, and you too can create scientific magic without waiting for your next weigh-in. Between 15 and 30 seconds (the results are only good for a very short time!) you can track the ebb and flow of your 8-enzyme chain and keytone process.

Happy testing!

MONTH 3 - New Beginnings

2009-07-06T10:08:00.000-07:00

Image by The Library of Congress via Flickr

I'm quite excited today. My third month on the diet resulted in new numbers - in the 160's.

I didn't find the first two weeks that good though. I was hovering in the mid-170s, not moving very much. I even had a faint panic attack when my numbers went up a little on a mid-week weigh-in.

What had happened? I follow the diet strictly, and haven't changed my diet much?

Well, I realized that I had mistakenly eaten something wrong. Wrong in that the Applesnax applesauce my husband bought for me (through my cell phone instructions) was the Organic brand with "natural sugars." Same bottle and label, but different variety. It wasn't Applesnax Unsweetened.

So, unbeknownst to me, I was injesting sugar every morning for the entire week and didn't realize it. (Come to think of it though, it did taste sweeter... but obviously to my detriment.)

Lesson learned: Stick to the food list and check your brands like a hawk.

Itchy, scratchy, flaky

2009-07-06T06:04:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

I thought it interesting this morning as I had my shower, that I haven't been dry and itchy as I had been in the first month on the diet.

As the program "bible" (the diet manual) explains, you will get dry skin.

That was an understatement!

I mean it's bound to happen. The fats are drawn from your skin and none is being replinished through the diet. There's going to be some consequence. However, I hadn't used cream like this since I lived in the Arctic. I was having flashbacks of slathering endless amounts of Body Shop Shea Butter Body Butter to recoup from ice cold blizzard conditions.

After the first two weeks on the diet, I had fashioned pencil and crayon sketches of a personal hip holster for my husband to fashion for me in his woodworking workshop. I needed a permanent supply of cream to keep my skin moisturized.

Every night in front of the t.v., I became the star of my own personal Itchy and Scratchy show: a full hour drama of applying cream to all parts of my body. Not for family viewing, I can tell you...

Now, you can't just use any cream on the diet. Oh no...

Just as with the food lists, there are only certain products you can use. So be prepared to scrutinize your bathroom medicine cabinet and purge your usual brands.

Aveda, Body Shop - whatever you're used to using - get rid of it.

As the nurses and doctors explain, the chemicals, fats and processed contents are absorbed into your system and can affect your ketosis (stop your fat burning) and/or cause weight gain.

Geez - even when you think you're buying all natural products from all the intensive marketing, you may be wrong!

You can use hypo-allergenic products for your skin and body. The recommended "clean" products though are plain old baby oil and Vaseline - either the white petroleum gelly or creme. However, as long as what you're using is hypo-allergenic, you should be fine.

After a few weeks of applying liberally the gelly, I was tied of feeling like I was going to slip out of my sheets. I purchased the Vaseline Intensive Rescue Hand Cream, and used up the baby oil I still had left from my toddler's baby days.

We're into July now, and my skin is no longer dry as it was in the early days of the diet. This is likely due to the changing season from spring to summer. We are having warmer days with bouts of humidity, as is the nature of our southeastern Ontario summers. So as I dry off from the shower, a little smearing of baby oil is sufficient these days.

The good thing about the process though, is that if you weren't an avid cream user, it forces you to support your skin as your body starts to shrink. You need to help the elasticity of your skin so it shrinks with your new body.

So slather up folks! Just lay off the Body Shop Body Butter for awhile...

I'm fat and want to lose weight - does my provincial health care system or employer care that I'm trying to get healthy?

2009-07-05T18:41:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

When I started Dr. Bernstein, I knew the cost of the program. If you've read my other posts, I have no problem rationalizing why I support paying the $150 per week for the program (since I was paying the same amount per week ingesting fatty foods and imbibing in sugar-laden booze and pop.)

When you register, the clinic tells you that your private employer health insurance, or your province, might cover your costs.

All excited, I checked with my plan. Unfortunately, in 2006, my health plan decided cancel covering supplementary injections, though it had provided for it previously.

Shoot - three years too late...

This poses a theoretical debate in my mind.

As we Canadians and Americans expand our girth exponentially every year, and head to our graves in highest numbers due to heart disease (caused in large part by our horrid diets) we are implored by health officials, government promotional campaigns, education systems and a multi-billion dollar consumer industry, to lead lives of good health and practice prevention.

Eat our balanced meals from the Canadian Food Guide they say - the good balance of foods. Just don't look too intently at the rest of the contents such as MSG, preservatives, sugar, sodium and fat levels...

Here I am, for the benefit of my health, investing a sizeable sum in active weight loss and future health prevention activities and education.

Doesn't my provincial government and employer care?

Will I be able to deduct my expenditures in my annual tax return as a medical expense? I don't know yet, but I'll certainly be including it for my accountant to scrutinize.

Can I be reimbursed from my employer's health plan? No - not anymore. Not for a plan that over the course of my 12 years with the same employer, and all the premiums I have paid, would have easily paid for the total cost of the program a few times over.

And would I support our public health care plan to cover these costs? You're darn right I would. To support mine, my neighbours, my family's and my colleagues' efforts to get healthier and lead more productive lives.

You can't tell me that by investing in weight loss programs and medically supervised supplements, that the productivity of our provincial and Canadian workforce isn't a good investment!

I guess for employers they don't care that I may have missed work and taken sick leave or extended medical leave for, upon reflection, what were certainly weight-induced illnesses such as:

back pain
gastrointestinal flare-ups
totally lethargic and lack of energy
a leave of absence for 3 months due to depression

Dr. Bernstein, a Canadian physician, supports government monitoring of weight loss programs - even his own.

Like him, I agree that like provincial and territorial governments in Canada should focus less on the debate to scrutinize programs, but support the public who are taking an active step forward in reaching health targets that are advocated in public policy, espoused in public outreach campaigns, and envisioned in long-term strategic health objectives.

For those of us taking an active step to improve our current and future health, and paying the hefty provincial and private premiums for the health insurance and medical plans, I expect this to be covered!

I was incensed to learn that I could receive a variety of other medical services and prosthetics that, in all likelihood, I will never need to access. However, for a service that has obvious immediate and long-term benefits, I cannot get any relief.

Now here's an issue that I'll be taking up with my union.

Better yet - here's the basis for a good public policy and program. I could easily draft up a logic model, policy framework, grant and contribution program guideline and results-based accountability framework on this one....

Vitamin B6 supplements - the wonderful magic potion

2009-07-05T17:30:00.000-07:00

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The diet touts the B6 vitamin as the key to success. As their literature denotes, for women it's our "guardian angel."

I must admit, from the first injection, I've never slept so well or felt as good as I have over the last two months, and I could certainly feel a difference from the injections.

B6 (or pyridoxine) is argued by Dr. Seymour Levine as the key vitamin in the B-complex group that offers the most benefits. Over 60 million people are thought to be vitamin B deficient, particularly dieters, people over 50 years of age and all women.

Vitamin B6 is linked to addressing water retention, swelling, moodiness, dry skin, anemia and hormonal imbalances.

No wonder whenever I'm on my menses on the diet, they give me a full b-complex (the full B vitamin group) injection...likely for my hormones! Seriously, B6 is key to regulating hormones. It stimulats the production of potamine and provides a calming effect on the nervous system.

Research also links B6 as having an important role in the prevention and treatment of anemia. Supplements have also treated problems such as acne and seborrhea.

And for other added benefits, B6 can also bring relief of depression, tiredness and loss of sex drive. For most women, there is no more important need for B6 than for its role in estrogen production... right honey? (My husband nodded!)

B6 is also an excellent diuretic, and is the best natural preventative and remedy for bloating, water retention and menstrual weight gain. In all seriousness - women in particular keep a pain of "fat pants" for that time of the month and routinely retain water. The injection certainly helps keep things moving.

In his clinical report on B6, Dr John Ellis found that the vitamin helps set up a body balance of sodium and potassiumm that regulates body fluids.

Finally, B6 also has the important role of producing antibodies that help fight infection. It helps maintain our immune system.

There's also a thought that there is a connection of B6 to anti-aging: the production of age-retarding RNA (a mucleic acide that instigates the replacement of worn-out, damaged and diseased cells.) women over 40 (yes me...) see a rapid increase in wrinkles, aged spotted skin. Without B6, there isn't enough RNA to keep the body young. Women also have higher RNA requirements than men. Hmmm - perhaps an explanation that if women are B6 deficient, we age so much faster than men do?

Dr. Kilmer McCully, a professor of pathology at Harvard University points to a lack of vitamin B6 as a probable chemical cause of arteriosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries: the leading cause of death in the USA and Canada, among both men and women.

Other lab research has shown that a high fat, high protein diet low in vitamin B6 will cause diabetes. Dutch research reported that a supplemental program of vitamin B6 can relieve diabetic symptoms.

Finally, adequate B6 helps keep weight under control and is necessary for the functioning of the thyroid gland: enabling body metabolism to burn off calories.

Dieting women are the most in need of B6, but are often the most deficient. Hence, Dr. Bernstein and the diet point to supplementation as the most reliable way to correct and prevent vitamin B6 deficiency. While B6 is available in a wide array of foods (brewer's yeast, wheat germ, bran, yoghurt, meat and fish) a high percentage is lost in cooking and refining processes.

Given that so many people are deficient, folks shoudl supplement their dietary intake. Any excessive intake of the water-soluble vitamin is excreted within 8 hours of injections, so regular supplements are provided on the diet.

Impact on the family peeps.

2009-07-05T17:04:00.000-07:00

Image by gastia.com via Flickr

I've been on the diet for two months now, and you're probably asking what the impact has been on my family?

I must admit, I do the majority of the cooking in the house. I openly admit to talking my husband away from the stove, but I do encourage my kids to learn how to cook.

The first few weeks was really difficult on me - I'd prepare a separate meal for them (pasta, rice, meat with sauces that I couldn't have) and wait until they were served before I'd get my meal done. Silliness of course...

While there are many foods that are restricted on the diet that my family eats routinely, such as carrots, potatoes, rice, etc., I've continued to make those as side dishes for the family so they have some carbs. However, I focus on the proteins, fruits and breads/crackers that I am allowed to have and stick to my portions, while they have their amounts.

My son and daughter and slim, healthy and energetic kids anyway, and have no need to diet. Instead, they eat their required caloric intake required for their height/age/energy levels. Now, instead of even buying any chips or cookies that were usually a staple, they dip into the vegetables, jello and other foods that are in the fridge in abundance.

We do still have ice cream, peanut butter and bread (albeit now 14 grain) for them - they are not stripped completely of their childhood fun - but the pantry is really shifting the brands and foods that used to be bought.

If Bernstein has showed me anything, its the amount of sugar, fats and sodium that our food is riddled with.

The food lists really show you what "clean" food is - and how our grocery stores are chock-full of foods that we can do without.

My husband? Well since starting my diet, he stopped driving to work and now cycles an hour each day to and from work. He was 50 lbs overweight and was diagnosed two years ago as having high blood pressure and high cholesterol. He was on daily medication for his ailments. He also had two bouts of kidney stones, caused by too much calcium intake.

With his new cycling routine, and my diet (he agrees!) he feels much better. The diet removes all milk - save 1 tablespoon per day.

Good news! As a police officer, he just had his annual medical in June and his physician reported that he no longer has high blood pressure; his cholesterol has dropped to normal levels; he's had no kidney pains; and has lost 23 lbs since April! He just needs to increase his iron levels. That we can work on. Think it's a coincidence? Check out this article that I found after writing this!

He's being just as strict as I am to change his lifestyle and watch his food. He still has the odd cookie or handful of chips, but he's doing very well.

Baby steps for everyone.

I wanted to be a better food role model for my two children (ages 9 and 4.) I'm learning to question what we're eating - what it's made of - and what it means to my health and my family's health. Here's a good article if you're also interested.

The vitamins/supplements

2009-07-05T05:58:00.000-07:00

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A little blurb on the supplements you take on the Bernstein diet.

Because the diet itself is only 800-900 calories per day, you need to ensure that you take extra multivitamins, minerals and potassium supplements.

The clinic recommends Swiss One 50 timed release caplets with 36 minerals and supplements. It includes extra B vitamins and lutein - a supplement to the B-complex injections you receive. You can get these in any drug store in the natural brands section. The clinic sells for $16 per bottle. Not bad for 72 caplets. You take one per day, so you've got a good 2+ months worth there.

Take your vitamins first thing with breakfast to kick-start your body throughout the day.

Along with the multivitamin, take your potassium supplement. The clinic usually starts off with a low dose prescription, but will regularly touch base with you on your visits whether you need to increase your dosage. Symptoms include headaches, coldness in your hands/feet, tingling, fatigue. The potassium is a key to supporting the protein and energy, so be vigilent and speak up if you don't feel 100%. I did the diet on the first month with my original low dose prescription. Though I had some of the symptoms, I couldn't quite determine whether my headaches were due to a constant sinus congestion that I was battling since before starting the diet, or the diet itself. Once the sinus infection cleared, I realized that I wasn't 100%. I finished off the low dose and asked for the cadillac version - K-Lyte. Apparently 98% of patients are on K-Lyte - and wow - what a difference it makes.

K-Lyte is an effervescent tablet, when dissolved in water, provides 975 mg of elemental potassium as potassium citrate. It is routinely used to help against potassium deficiency and is used with thiazide diuretics to replace excessive potassium loss. You use 1 tablet at breakfast - dissolved in 3 oz of cold water (I put it in my lemon water for extra zing) and again another tablet at lunch. Combine them when you eat your protein and when you're most active.

Nurses advise again taking it at supper or in the evening, as it keeps some folks awake. I can drink coffee at night without keeping me awake, so I haven't had that problem.

Again, for constipation, I use Senokot.S. For more on that, see my other posts. I don't need ot belabour that point....

Happy dieting!

Half way there!

2009-06-29T15:51:00.000-07:00

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What a sense of accomplishment. 9 weeks in and I'm 38 lbs lighter. What a difference I feel. From 207 to 171...and counting!

I've gone from a size 18 pant to size 12, and from a 1X shirt to a large t-shirt (Gap no less.)

It feels amazing to be able to shop in regular stores again. I just picked up a size 12 beautiful cream and white piping tailored jacket at MEXX (50% off right now by the way...) Do you know how that feels?! For those who may have once had a fashion sense, style and cool look happening, it's quite something when you lose it and find it back again.

And to think - I'm only half way there. What will I be when I'm at my target weight of 140? Size 8, or maybe 6?

I can't wait.

I'm already feeling more confident back in my skin and pre-pregnancy size.

And as the icing on the top? A colleague from work is coming to take all my large clothes away. Over 2 large suitcases of good work clothes, winter and summer, going to someone who can use them.

Good riddance, I say...and hello reclaimed body!

A little more than you need to know - but for folks on the diet, a helpful tip

2009-06-24T10:55:00.000-07:00

CONSTIPATION

Because there is no fats in the diet, constipation does occur. I've always had a lazy bowel to begin with, so I knew it was going to happen. I bought the Senokot.S laxative they recommend, and with after 2 tablets, you go. You then take 1 tablet daily (I just put it with my morning multi vit and potassium) and now I'm regular like clockwork. Whew! ;-) The doctor recommended Wheat Bran; the nurses said Metamucil or Benefibre (no salt versions) but I just stuck with the Senokot.S. Works for me, and it does the job beautifully. The bran did nothing for me...

Image by mlhradio via Flickr

I just hit on something - a pattern that works for my body.

I noted that once a month, I would get a windfall 4 lb loss over the course of a couple of days. I wasn't quite sure how it happened, since I didn't seem to do anything special.

However, recall that I said that constipation is a problem on the diet? Well, I have found that by taking two (2) Senokot.S tablets before bed, certainly loosens things up.

Then I realized that by taking two tablets at night, and again another one with lunch, kept things very regular for me.

Well, I've stumbled upon a little co-ing-ki-dink.

It seems that when I take the tablets, drink a good 64 oz of water (with lemon), go for my injections and check-up, my body does an amazing purge of water and solids. After about an hour, the b-complex injection really pushes through the system and causes a good half an hour of "quality time" with myself to evacuate all living things in my system. Not painfully or inconveniently, just efficiently.

Now, this is the third time this has occurred. Both times previously resulted in a total 8 lb loss. Likely the bulk being water and solids (hopefully the keytone fat released as well) but this helps achieve an amazing weekly additional loss.

I feel great, and keeps things moving, so for me, a regular daily evening dose and morning top-up of Senokot.S really works!

By the way - I'm at 169 today. Even with my 2 lb jeans on. Yahoo!!!

Thighs are my favourite. Wait a minute, let me explain....!

2009-06-19T20:25:00.000-07:00

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THE NEEDLES

They'll start the first week with the injections in the butt. They do it to see if there will be a reaction. Likely not, but that is standard.

They then give the option of the belly or thigh.

I highly recommend the thigh. They say it circulates the most throughout the body. The belly works on the belly/butt in the butt, but they do not reach all areas.

I only do the thigh now and it's amazing. It really does seem to hit everything.

However, they don't the inner thigh - the flabbiest part. Darn...I really could use some help there....

The nurses will say - ooh, you're so brave because it hurts. That's bull - it stings (pinprick for 2 seconds) the same as the butt or belly, and by the time you walk out of the clinic, you don't feel anything.

I recommend the thigh - well worth the overall fat breakdown.

There - have I clarified my appreciation of thighs? ;-)

Exercise - do it in moderation.

2009-06-18T18:09:00.000-07:00

Image by MoToMo via Flickr

EXERCISE

Is discouraged on the diet.

Unless you fully disclose what you do on a daily basis, they can adjust for it.

The diet and calorie intake is based on folks with no exercise regime. I mean really. I wasn't running marathons prior to joining the diet, so why would I fool myself to think that I would become physically active while trying to diet. It's enough for me to just manage working an 8-hour day, manage a household (equitably with my husband of course!), support my kids' activities, and try to squeeze in an hour of t.v. for rest and relaxation. Running? Cycling? The gym? Good luck... That's the reason I'm in the 65+lbs overweight situation I'm in. Lack of "me" time.

If you are exercising, be sure to get your protein and potassium on time, and have some veggies/breads with you in case you feels your blood sugar is dropping.

I had it today where we had our office retreat. I forgot, in all the morning rush, to bring my lunch which I had in the fridge. I only had veggies/salad for lunch (they had burgers and sausages which I couldn't eat) then we played soccer for our team building. Of course I was burning up the field, making career limiting moves like taking the ball from my boss and body checking my teammates. Oops....! :-)

Nonetheless, I was getting very tired and weak because I didn't have my protein or lunch potassium fizzy drink, and no access to eggs or an alternative.

We are getting more active as a family. Of course it's easier in the summer, than in our cold Canadian snow-laden winters to enjoy the outdoors. While we do enjoy skiing, it was difficult even trying to find the proper gear in size 18-20 that didn't make you look and feel like the Abominable Snowman, and could maneouver on the slopes. In the summer, we're biking as a family, and with our pool, I'm doing some good laps and 20-minute treading water routines to move the skin and body. The doctors gave swimming the two thumbs up as acceptable and recommended exercise for those on the diet.

I've also bought some easy 5 lb weights to work on my biceps, triceps and shoulders. I don't want the turkey fat arms, so I'm slowly toning and building the muscles while I'm on the diet, so strengthen slowly what has been laying in wait all these years. I'm already seeing a difference. Look out Michelle Obama - I'm coming up behind you to rival your toned arms! :-)

Where to get the pin prick

2009-06-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

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MONTH 2 MUSINGS

I must say, the needles aren't the most pleasant thing, but they sure do help. I remember the first real day that the diet started. You get a single dose of B vitamin complex, and I felt such a rush of energy and balance. There's really something to be said for the injections. I hadn't slept so well in a long time than that first evening after I got the injections. Probably largely psychological but I don't care. I don't mind the injections at all.

They first take the buttocks as the main site. Stay there for a week or two and venture into door #2 or door #3 from there.

I chose door #2 - the thighs. I chuckle when even some of the nurses on the program say they just won't go there. Sure it stings - for about 3 minutes - then you're off! I've had a chance to go back over my last 6 weeks on the program, and my biggest weight loss was during the "thigh phase." Somewhere along the way, I was cajoled into getting the shots in my belly. I don't know why I changed. I didn't find it did much for me in the belly. My weight loss balanced off to 1 lb every two days. Nothing compared to the 4-5 lbs over a weekend I got from the thigh.

So, today I asked the nurse to switch me back. I expounded on my theory that I think the thigh works best for me. She confirmed that, saying that the thigh gets "the most coverage throughout the body."

Well - why didn't anybody tell me that in the first place?! I would have stayed there forever.

One drawback? The nice loonie sized bruises decorating the length of the thighs. Nevertheless, I'm staying put for awhile and amass more data to test my hypothesis. Door #1 (butt), Door #2 (thigh) or Door #3 (belly) - which yields the biggest prize (or should I say - loss?)

The Travelling Diet

2009-06-07T18:46:00.000-07:00

Image by George Eastman House via Flickr

I must admit, the diet does put a major cramp in your style when traveling. We went to Montreal this weekend, and there's nothing worse when going to a fine restaurant and having to defend your green salad and side of asparagus and spinach order to the waitress. If looks could kill for not ordering a 12 oz steak and glass of wine - geesh! I actually felt fine ordering my water with lemon, diet Coke and meal, but when the waitress asked whether I was on a diabetic diet, she apologized that I couldn't eat their food. What a laugh...

It actually wasn't that hard. I packed my meat pre-cooked and pre-portioned and brought it to the hotel (which luckily had a refrigerator.) I also brought hard boiled eggs, some fruit, my crackers (breads) and water/Diet Coke which did me just fine. I just kept my vegetable portions for eating out. I didn't have to worry about a thing!

That was my first real test traveling on the diet. It was definitely easier than I thought it would be.

I endured Tim Hortons and had a Decaf coffee with nutrisweet... certainly not the same as my usual medium double-double with a Dutchie donut, but I think about the cream, sugar and fat and realize how the pounds packed on over the last 5 years.

However, when the family stopped off at McDonalds on the way home and I had to look at the french fries... it was hard. I resisted (of course!) but you really find out what your triggers and hot spots are.

I'm so glad though, after 6 weeks, that I'm down 26 lbs...on average 1 pound every 2 days. My double chin is now gone (whew!) and getting leaner. I not longer have the cracking feet/joints and just feel so much better. Swimming is great and just stretches the skin and joints too.

Overall - it just feels good to get healthy again.

More in a couple of weeks!

Month 2 musings

2009-06-04T10:31:00.000-07:00

MONTH 2

I'm embarking into Month 2 with a visit from Aunt Flo....great. Water retention still occurs while on the program. The B6/B12 injections have limited my usual cramping, but I had a real slowdown in loss during the week.

Tomorrow morning will tell how my burn is. For the most part, I've been steady between a 2-3 burn rate for ketosis. The machine is working!

For my diet, I'm sticking pretty close to egg white and chicken for my proteins, with a weekly helping of lean beef (3.5 oz max.) I must have my red meat. Along with a good shiraz, a good steak is my Achilles heel. So, since wine is a definite no-no on the program, I try to harken back to my little indulgences with memories of steak. However, I do pay for it the next day with a slight drop in ketosis. What the hell....a girl's gotta still live too.

Like any food addiction, I do find it physically troublesome to be around fresh baked bread, popcorn and chips. The salty starchy carbs. I have never cheated on the diet, and will not (given the price you pay financially and physically) but I'm learning where my weak spots are. I don't miss the alcohol at all - I could give a crap about that. I do miss the starches. So, I know in maintenance, that will be my area to learn portion control and balance.

My MONTH 1 reward for myself? With a 3.5" loss in my waist, and 1" loss in my hips, I was able to buy myself 8 new tops (from The Gap!) in a Large. No more XL or 1XL for me. No more AdditionElle or Penningtons. Thank goodness. I'm allergic to polyester and rayon bold print.

Anyway, I'll keep you posted on my progress. With a goal weight of 140, I have another 47 pounds to go. Two more months on program - but a lifetime of maintenance.

Liquid diet anyone, with a side order of sodium?

2009-06-01T18:01:00.000-07:00

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SOUP/BROTH

I was making myself broth everyday in the first couple of weeks for some extra substance, but with the salt, it was holding back progress.

SO, since there are things that you're allowed on the diet, if you have a tendency to retain water, then just stay away from it.