Calorie intake

Calories really matter! Like Grim, I'm stunned by the number of programs that place no emphasis on this. Please keep your calories as low as possible for as long as possible! After getting past the healing phase and progressing to a full diet I never increased mycalories until I reached my goal weight. And while I have a lot more calories to play with now, I still watch them like a hawk.  

I still like to have a protein shake, most times I have it for breakfast. I don't use water but I do use things like unsweetened cashew milk or almond milk, usually its anything unsweetened. It helps to keep the calories low & it has a little bit of protein in it too. Its a good way to start my day, especially since I don't cook early in the morning most times.

Try PB2. It has all the protein of peanut butter without the fat and calories. Also, try unsweetened almond milk. It is only 30 calories per 8 oz. One thing I have learned is that everything matters when it comes to nutrition, and any diet or program that tells you to ignore calories is not going to lead to maximum success.

A lot of people swear by PB2 but that has too much sugar in it.  Look for defatted peanut powder without sugar in it.  Trader Joe's used to carry a great kind but they discountinued it.  Jif has it without sugar.  I'll tell you a tablespoon of that in a chocolate protein shake was delicious!  

That sounds awesome! I will see if I can find that. Thanks!

We all had to figure it out too, and I'm glad you are at least listening. Some people never do.

We all like things to taste better. But everything is a tradeoff. I had one protein powder that was great with milk, and horrid with water. Another was really good with water, and saved a bunch of calories.

It's all a balancing act.

I will definitely listen! You and others on here have been down this road and are a great sounding board. I didn't take this drastic step to screw it all up. I want to make the most of this journey. I appreciate your advice! 

(I don't see my previous reply so I'm sending this again, you may get it twice) I will definitely listen! I couldn't do it without advice. I want to make this all worthwhile. I didn't go to this extreme step to fail. I really appreciate all you help and advice! 

Love your attitude! That and bloody day by day grunting no matter what persistence is what it takes. Not fun news, but lifesaving!c

Lifesaving is the key. I have a 4 year old and 7 year old who need their mommy around for a long, long time. I want to be active and have fun with them. They need to have memories of activity and fun not loafing on the couch watching TV. They are my driving force. I just need to remember that my fun is no longer food but the eyes of my children lighting up when we go sledding or bike riding or hiking. They deserve a better me. Thank you for your support!