Getting Through Social Functions

shutterstock_106626869 I became more mindful that I am not going to change what I usually do when others are celebrating. I am extremely careful about attending social functions. I prepare a meal before going out, especially if I know there is going to be party food there so I don’t eat the wrong foods. I choose a healthy selection and if there isn’t a low calorie alternative, I select a beverage such as water, coffee or tea. Preparation is key. People often can show their love by offering their guests food. Appetizers are always the large part of the party yet are often high in calories. I enjoy socializing and do not focus on food. In my mind, I tell myself to be strong. I remind myself about all of the hard work and sacrifice involved with my weight loss.

In my case, if I make bad choices I can gain weight quickly and I try to avoid this at all cost. Consider bringing the party a low-calorie dish that you prepare so that your mind can feel at ease if there is not other healthy alternative food options. Another helpful tip before going to a party is to exercise before or after the party. Also, try chewing sugar-free gum to take your mind off of munching on the wrong type of grub. WEIGHT CLIQUERS, always be aware not to think of deprivation or restriction especially at a party. Always think of the many healthy food options or techniques available so you do not lose sight of your goals at the party! You are so much more than that!!!

Cheers,

Gina

Praise

shutterstock_157962062Praise is really the most natural reaction that you can make or receive. When a friend, colleague, family member or acquaintance who notice’s that you have lost weight and say’s, “You have lost a lot of weight and look amazing!” These statements are typically made with the utmost best intentions. People are genuinely happy for your transformation and want to compliment and praise you for your hard work and sacrifices. It’s a good feeling to hear praise from my greatest support system, family and friends.

I have learned that recognition is the most important when it comes from within ourselves and not from outside sources. Be sure to be your own cheerleader, Weight Cliquers. Praising yourself is something that you should get into the habit of doing because if we look for external praise and it’s not there, I don’t want that to be a set back for you. You are deserving to feel good regardless if you get a compliment or not. It all starts from with in.

Cheers,

Gina

Body Image: Past and Current Size‏

shutterstock_232860274When I was almost 300 pounds, I saw myself as unhappy and unhealthy in most aspects of my life. Now, I view myself as healthier and more self-confident. I sometimes felt that others perceived me in a negative light. It was extremely challenging and exhausting just doing simple tasks. I enjoy life now that I can move more freely. As I began to lose weight, I started to feel better about myself. My body is now rejuvenated and healthy. I want the same for you, Weight Cliquers.

Try to recognize that your body is your own, no matter what shape or size it comes in. When you hear negative comments coming from within, tell yourself to stop. Meeting a goal you set for yourself is a great way to boost self-esteem. Your energy and body image will soar, once you start dropping pounds! I encourage you to take a small step, today! I believe you can do it!

Cheers,

Gina

Garcinia Cambogia‏

shutterstock_247027921I was concerned about my weight loss plateau, so I decided to take the dietary supplement Garcinia Cambogia. I saw this supplement advertised on The Dr. Oz Show and wanted to try it out. I know that with proper diet and exercise this dietary supplement can be very beneficial especially during weight delays. I acknowledge, that I consistently and properly use this 1500 mg supplement as the directions indicate. Yes, I felt I needed a little “help” for my weight to drop more quickly. I am very open minded and wanted to experiment with this weight loss supplement.

I was losing about a pound or so before I started taking Garcinia Cambogia. The first time I took Garcinia Cambogia, I lost a little over 2 pounds in a week. I stuck with this supplement because it was healthy for my body and easy to incorporate with my daily routine. It was in-expensive, sold everywhere and highly recommended by my doctor. I am serious about my weight loss transformation so I am willing to do as much as I can to enhance my weight loss experience. Yes, I think I gained more energy by taking these capsules. I felt that this vitamin is ultimately benefiting me. In my opinion, taking supplements is very healthy as it provides certain nutrients for our bodies.

I strongly feel that Garcinia Cambogia controlled my cravings and kept me in tune with myself. I was noticing results, daily. It worked in well with my day to day nutritional and training balance. Looking back, I realized that I started to develop more endurance and exercising became easier for me as I continually kept increasing my speed/level or explored a diverse machine. I completely noticed that little by little I became firmer and toned as my body started to shrink. I was able to gain more control with my appetite and I was noticing quicker weight loss results.

I loved that I was noticing results with Garcinia Cambogia. It was easy to swallow and did not have a bad taste or odor to it. This dietary supplement is taken first thing in the morning with a bottle of water and some fresh squeezed lemon. Very refreshing. I am thrilled that I am starting my day off right, as this is a constant reminder to make excellent dietary/exercise decisions. My bowel movements have become more regular, as well.

Definitely, I noticed that more weight did come off my midsection more rapidly. I am so excited. My body is considerably shrinking. Jenny Craig periodically measured me. I can now bend down with ease.

Over time, I started to desire more protein and less carbs. I know that this supplement helped me as I craved a variety of delicious healthy foods. I turned my thinking around, I wanted to be thin and my food addiction became more manageable. There is no stopping- this clearly is working for me! PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN BEFORE TAKING ANY SUPPLEMENTS AS THEY MAY NOT BE A GOOD FIT FOR ALL.

WEIGHT
CLIQUERS, You can feel amazing with choosing to make healthy decisions day by day…

Cheers,

Gina

Maintaining your Weight Loss

shutterstock_247052623I realized that maintaining my weight loss is a lifestyle change and know it is not a diet, it is a state of mind. The maintenance stage is a comforting phase. It is that sigh of relief that you have achieved your weight loss goals and can now relax. It does not at all mean that you can go back to your old ways of eating, it simply means that you should adopt a new mind set. By eating regularly and well has become a habit. Like all good habits, it makes life easier. At this point, you have mastered how to lose weight.

During the maintenance part of weight loss, incorporating regular exercise becomes a part of your daily routine. There is countless options and ideas of food that you can eat as you are a pro by this stage in the game. Constantly remember that this is your new life. By getting positive feedback from yourself and others and by feeling good everyday is the most amazing feeling ever. By being involved and supported by others rather than see the number on the scale go down is enough proof that you are living a comfortable life. Do not be a slave to your scale!

Cheers,

Gina

3 Keys to Living a Healthy Life‏

shutterstock_1132957751. Giving your body what it needs for nourishment:

My nutritionist discussed with me proper food balance which includes protein, fiber and good carbs. For example, a good carb would be a sweet potato, fruit etc. as opposed to pasta, processed foods, cookies and cakes. My dietician also addressed proper vitamin intake and portion control. She showed me with a special portioned dinner plate and other cups what proper, good portions look like. For instance, 6 ounces of chicken or fish is needed for weight loss, daily. Also, she taught me how to read calorie labels and ingredients on the food that I purchase at Whole Foods.

2. Incorporating regular exercise:

Generally, I exercise approximately 65 minutes per day by doing a variety of work-outs. The diverse exercises that I do are the elliptical machine, treadmill or weight training. When it comes to regular exercise you should always do something that you enjoy. Remember, we are all different and its important to find out what works for you. Consistency and regularity is definitely the best way to attain real weight loss results.

3. Having a healthy mental outlook:

Developing positive thinking and not dwelling on the negative outcomes is essential for mental health. Focus on noticing your good qualities such as what you have to offer a person. Also, that you can achieve anything rather than you cant. Always incorporate other goals in other areas of your life. Be self-accepting of who you are as a person. Lastly, embrace your relationships with others and have fun by exploring new and exciting experiences.

Cheers,

Gina

Knowing the Difference between Head Hunger and Stomach Hunger‏

shutterstock_210518332The difference between head hunger and stomach hunger is head hunger is more of a psychological need. Stomach hunger is a response in our bodies to let us know that we need more calories and nutrients. An example of head hunger would be eating for comfort. When I was stressed on my job, I would grab a sugary snack and it would escalate from there. Other examples of head hunger are eating out of boredom, having a negative mindset, anger with life, fear and emotional pain. My mind would tell me that I have to have carbs such as pasta. Of course, my body did not need all of these additional carbs.

The signs of stomach hunger can also come after you work out because your body knows that it needs fuel. When this signal happens you can feel that your stomach is growling, you may also feel light headed which is another way your body is giving you a healthy signal to eat. I no longer obsess about food. I eat when my body tells me to eat. Acknowledging the above mentioned differences reminds me that weight loss is a journey, not a quick fix.

Cheers,

Gina

Helpful Weight Loss Tips

shutterstock_238978660I’ve developed a healthy relationship with my body by nourishing it every day. My lifestyle has provided me with more confidence, personal happiness, gratification and triumph. My weight loss has influenced my aspirations and interactions because I am now more open-minded, willing to learn and be optimistic. I now venture out, whereas before I was reclusive. The paramount part of being thinner is that I can substantially do more, and my overall health has considerably improved. I think people are ecstatic for me and cheerful for my well-being.

The advice that I would offer to people that are struggling with weight loss is countless! First, take small steps. Like myself, many individuals that are severely over-weight or have been sedentary for a long time should discover a physical activity, even if it’s walking 500 feet. Many physiological changes happen exceptionally quickly once you start moving. Walking, for example, starts getting easier and more comfortable within a couple of weeks. Keep evolving. Focus on how much better you feel, not the scale, and you will be more likely to stick with your nutritional intake and training. Every day will be a little better!

Progress and improvement generate weight loss results. There are no excuses. Once I altered my attitude, being busy was no longer an excuse not to be fit. I got in decent physical shape because I desired to be in good health. Now, I am certain that I can reach any goal.

Another helpful tip is to keep records or a diary of your advancement. You should write down the positive differences that you’ve witnessed and also record the exercises you finished every day. Write down what you did, how long you did it and any reflections about that workout. This simple task can be incredibly helpful in the long term. It will allow you to look back at what you have completed with an immense sense of achievement, and you will be empowered to do more! Take your time. For long-term outcomes, you need to make lasting changes.

Obesity is a national epidemic, and I aspire to help and encourage others to achieve weight loss. If I can do this, anyone can do it!

Cheers,

Gina

3 Tips to Keep You Motivated‏

shutterstock_128840261. Moving onto other equipment:

By building more confidence, I branched out to more challenging equipment. I chose the elliptical because it exercised more muscles. By trying new equipment was a turning point for me. By moving onto diverse equipment, I felt that I was building up my upper and lower body by gaining strength and stamina. My progress and endurance intensified.

2. Having a clear image of your ultimate goal:

Keep yourself motivated by having an image of how you want your body to be. Be realistic. In my case, I thought of myself as an athletic teenager and as the shape that I want to be in my life now. I envisioned myself with becoming an athletic person again. Imagine what you would look and feel like.

3. Buying clothes for the future:

You will feel more comfortable and self-confident in new clothes. It is very motivating purchasing main stream clothes in your favorite store in a size smaller than your current size. You may want to select an item that you never would have worn before as when you were heavier. Doing this has been another key motivator to my success!!

Cheers,

Gina

How to Build a Strong Support System

shutterstock_67604023It is very important to set a proper support system which works best for you starting from day one. In my case, I relied heavily on dealing with professionals including doctors, nutritionists, family and friends. Physicians and nutritionists provided me with guidance, facts and food options.

During the course of my weight loss journey, my family and friends supported and accepted me by encouraging me to keep moving forward. Do your best to try to surround yourself with people who will be optimistic about your weight loss vision. Go above and beyond with learning about physical fitness and a healthy diet everyday. There is nothing as valuable as having an excellent support for achieving your weight loss goals. I know that you will be a success!

Cheers,

Gina