Newbie introduction

[pammie]

Hi April,

I weighed in this morning and I have lost 5kg!!! OMG, cannot believe it! I was hoping for 3kg and when I came into work today a colleague mentioned that she thought my face looked slimmer, high 5 to that!

Thank you for the advice with snacking, I've added an apple as an afternoon snack and I also have a 30g box of almonds that I snack on throughout the day. I'm still keeping up the exercise, I'm doing 45 mins cardio on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday. I love that I no longer have food cravings, I'm eating to fuel my body and that's it. I did wake this morning a little hungry but drank a load of water then had my brekkie so all good.

Stats so far....
Height 166cm
Starting weight - 133.5kg
Current weight - 128.5kg (week 1 weight loss 5kg)
1st goal weight - under 100kg
2nd goal weight - 90kg
3rd goal weight - 80kg
Ideal weight - 70kg

 

[April]

are you kidding me??!!! That’s so cool! Congratulations!!!! Means you are doing everything right and it’s the best way for your body to lose weight, so keep it up Pammie! And definitely a high 5 to the first compliments! Keep up the pace and you’ll get plenty of those =))

Did you take photos or measurements for a better recording of your progress? It’s always nice to have those and watch them and realize how strong you are =)) and how much you managed to achieve AND to realize that Rome wasn’t built in a day. To cut it short (and to tell you a secret, I love watching the before and after photos – so much inspiration and willpower in those), If you wish, I would suggest you do it. At least the measurements. If you plan to introduce some strength exercises (and you should, really), your weight might stand still at some points, while you will be shrinking on all sides. =)

Thank you for sharing! Keep it up and have a fantastic day!

 

[pammie]

Hi April,

OMG how exciting, I am super pleased and it has given me the motivation to keep going!

Out of interest has anyone mentioned they have vivid dreams on Duromine? I have noticed almost every night since I started taking them I have been having really strange dreams. Maybe its just a coincidence. At least I am sleeping eh?!

Yes my friend took photos of me from the front, side and behind when we were at the gym so I have those, although I am too scared to look at them. I am keeping them for when I need that extra motivation to keep going.

I definately need to get a little more creative with me food as I dont want to get bored but I find myself eating the same things, yoghurt and blueberries for brekkie, chicken salad for lunch and some protein and veg for dinner. Have you any nice healthy recipes I could use for a weekend treat?

Thanks again April, I really appreciate the support and encouragement. I need this little outlet to keep me focused.

Pammie
x

 

[Josephine vella]

At the not so youthful age of 60, I have struggled with weight issues all my life. However, after a cycling accident 3 years ago, the weight has piled on and I absolutely LOATH my body and what I look like. I have a wardrobe of beautiful clothes that I cannot fit into, and the last straw was having to buy a larger bra 2 weeks ago. Early this year I went to a doctor who totally demoralised me by saying that 'you should learn to accept it - putting on weight is just part of getting old'. If anything, his attitude only led me to put on MORE weight. But finally, after becoming so upset at trying to find comfortable bras, I said 'enough is enough' and went to a new GP who listened to me and strongly suggested I try Duromine. I did my research and just as there are some side affects with any medication, I know I have to give this a go. It is either this track, or go on anti-depressants. And it is far better to work on the cause rather than the result.
What surprises me is the large number of young people on this forum - are there any older, more mature people who have used Duromine? I would love to know their experience, and story. Being overweight does not stop as you get older - in fact, it gets worse. My weight sky rocketed as soon as I hit menopause, thus my exercise regime. But one fall off the rung (my accident) and I have put on nearly 20 kgs. And I HATE it, I LOATH it. I am lucky to still be working in a job I love, but every year have to have a medical. My last medical was a warning bell, and my job could be in jeopardy if I cannot get this weight under control.
I have taken the week off to start my regime, so if any side affects do come on, I will be in a better place to handle it. I have totally cleared out my cupboards - anything remotely on the temptation list was chucked straight in the bin. Part of me was saying 'don't throw out perfectly good food - look at the money you are wasting' - but that is my loss. I don't want any wrong foods even in the house. I will concentrate on good healthy food- yoghurt, fruit, cereal, vegetables, fish, and drinking more water.
So far, have only had a slight headache, but that could be a by product of cutting out sugar - my main drug. I have come to hate food - you cannot give it totally like alcohol or drugs - and trying to constantly eat the right food is not easy.
Something clicked inside me this time and I am determined to succeed. I wear a uniform and I have already bought 1 pair of large size pants- I WON'T do that again, as they have to be specially ordered in.
I would love to hear from any 'mature age' people out there. Being over-weight is not jut a problem for the young ones. I recently bought a Health & fitness Magazine and was disgusted that the whole magazine seemed to be a 'Dolly' clone - all pictures were of pre teen girls, rarely with even breasts, let alone any weight issues. I doubt there was one picture of any person over 25. There is a huge amount of discrimination against older people as it is (and by that I mean anyone over 40!) - and just because we get older does not mean that we should accept getting fatter (and staying that way).

Hi, I'm also 60, went through menapause last year, and have gained a lot of weight, im good on and off with diet and exercise, tried weight watchers lost 6 kgs but put it back on and more. Its a lifestyle, not a diet, the min u start eating anything that's not good and bigger portions and stop exercising you pile it on again and more especially now that I'm older, in 1999 I lost around 13 kilos in 6 months on weight watchers but I find I don't have the will power anymore. Ive just started durimine today and keeping away from junk and sweets are my weakness, I feel a little light headed I think it's withdrawals from not having any sweets . Im on lower dose for my first month then I'll go back there gp to see progress. My gp had no problem prescribing me the meds, as my bmi is 33 which is classed as obese, although I'm still in size 12, but uncomfortable, like you I have a wardrobe full of beautiful clothes that I can't fit into as they're size 10, I just want yo loose enough to get back into them comfortably, it depresses me when I dress and everything is too tight m my goal weight is 55 kgs, its achievable if I commit myself and stick to it, at 104.00 I think I should give it my best shot. I still have lots of goodies in pantry as my 5 grandkids come and I like to have things for them, I need to stay strong and not be tempted as there is temptation everywhere you go, going on a 6 week holiday to Europe in sept, so need to be strong and say no and stay without. Did it before have to do it again. Good luck

 

[April]

Hi Pammie! I read a couple of times about vivid dreams while on Duromine. And yes, you’re right, the fact that you sleep well is the most important! =))


I am sure you will be proud when you will be comparing those photos with the ones you will get by the end of this whole story. =)

As for the food… Everything depends on your taste. You can have oatmeal for breakfast, for a change, or some other useful cereals. Or cottage cheese with natural unsweetened yogurt and some other berries or fruits. Or a wholegrain toast with poached egg and a slice of avocado and tomato. If you don’t use some foods and know that they are useful and healthy, it’s time to discover them. You need to form new eating habits. If you will be eating the same thing for three months, you will eat an elephant with BBQ sauce, once you’re out of Duromine (sorry, just joking, but it’s quite close to the truth). You need diversity. Various cereals, fruits, kinds of meat and poultry, fish, dairy foods, greens. I am sure you will find a source of inspiration when you enter a supermarket and take a look at the available products under a different angle.

Just a small example. I once saw on some TV channel how they were cooking “green soup” (not sure already what it was zucchini or broccoli). They were adding cream and creamy soft cheese and probably sautéing broccoli in butter (it was a French soup, so they definitely did). What I did: cut and boil broccoli with onions, place it all together wit the “broth” in the blender, add some salt to taste and a couple of tablespoons of sour cream (10% fat, but these are just 2 tbsp. for about 600-800 ml of soup), blend and serve immediately. My kids love with croutons (wholegrain bread cut in cubes and dried on a dry pan). Simple, delicious, low in calories and useful.

Let your imagination work for you!

 

[pammie]

Thanks April,

I have tried to be a little more adventurous with my cooking, I made baked mushrooms last night which was delicious, I topped them with capsicum, red onion tomatoes and some mozzarella. Oh that soup sounds delicious, I'll make some of that at the weekend. Do let me know if you have any other simple recipes like that, I work long hours so don't have much time mon-fri for big recipes.

Progress update
Today marks 2 full weeks on Duromine and I couldn't be happier.

Stats so far....
Starting weight - 133.5kg
Week 1 - 128.5kg (-5kg)
Week 2 - 126.4 (-2.1kg, total 7.1kg)

 

[April]

Yummy! Love the mushrooms!!! Besides, they are so useful and packed with proteins. When you make the soup, don’t get scared about the smell of boiling onions and broccoli. The outcome will be nice =))

Well, I love cooking and when I am super busy, I also keep it very simple, so not really a lot to tell. I usually have a bowl with all kinds of salad leaves, vegetables, greens, seeds and lemon juice+ olive oil, some avocado and grilled fish/chicken. That’s my favorite thing of all. I am also a fan of grilled vegetables with some cottage cheese+salt+yogurt+garlic (love spicy food. Warning: do not eat this dish if you are planning meeting with someone =)) ). If I cook a family dinner, it is usually something oven baked. Again, fish/meat/poultry + all kinds of vegetables. Nothing too fancy and as little frying, as possible. I usually grill, boil and steam foods.

When I literally have no time to think, not to mention cook for myself, I make a smoothie. Tons of recipes on the internet.


Congratulations with such high results! You’re going fantastic, Pammie! Applause!

 

[pammie]

Week 3 progress, down another 1.2kg, Wooohoooo, super pleased with this. I am still staying consistent with the gym doing 3 sessions per week of 45 mins cardio. I think i will try up it to 4 days per week once I feel a little more comfortable.

I am still struggling with variety in my foods but I made the brocolli soup April suggested and it was delicious!

Stats so far....
Starting weight - 133.5kg
Week 1 - 128.5kg (-5kg)
Week 2 - 126.4 (-2.1kg, total 7.1kg)
Week 3 - 125.2 (-1.2kg, Total 8.3kg)

 

[April]

Yay! That’s so great! You are going in a fantastically fast pace! Well done, Pammie!

How is your skin doing? Does it manage to adjust to the changing volumes? You do exercise a lot, so I think this must help your skin be safe from sagging, however, it should get some aid from you. some coffee massage after shower and a nutrient cream or oils after. Just be gentle and don’t stretch the skin, if you decide to do it.


As for the foods, first- I am glad you liked the soup. Second – when you have time look for healthy fast recipes over the internet, get inspired and enjoy the fast and healthy cooking.

If you work a lot during the week, you can pre-make some foods during the weekend, like portion cut the meat/poultry/fish and season if needed, then freeze. In the morning of a working day, take out a portion, place it in the fridge, and in the evening when you come back home, it’s unfrozen and ready to be grilled, broiled, boiled or fried (on a non-stick pan with a couple of drops of oil or without, if possible). While it’s cooking, take care of your vegetables or the side dish you wish. You can also put eggs to boil – to garnish your tomorrow’s lunch salad (if that’s the plan for tomorrow). 30 minutes in the kitchen – not more. I am just used to doing lots of things at the same time. Requires some focus, yet helps manage many things.

Did you hear of overnight no-cook oatmeal jars? Also a nice way to diversify your breakfasts. As well as omelets with different vegetables. I like with zucchini cut like thick noodles or spinach, and sprinkle some cottage cheese on top. And there you go, healthy and delicious, and reminds of pizza because of the molten cottage cheese. If you have a leftovers of yesterday’s baked or boiled meat, add in, enjoy. The last variant will make up a rich breakfast, so watch out for the other meals of the day. =) always try acting like a chef.

And keep doing whatever you are doing, because you’re going just great!

 

[Carriefletch]

Congrats pammie! Going great

 

[pammie]

Thanks girls!! I was getting worried because the last week or so I was getting hungry again but I pushed through it and the hunger has gone again yay!! I'm so over the moon that I have no side effects other than being thirsty, I guess I am one of the lucky ones!

Ooo I've just started eating cottage cheese April, who knew it was so nice, I have a spiraller so can try zucchini noodles with cottage cheese. I made burger patties last weekend using turkey mince, chives and chilli and they were lovely. I made a big batch and have frozen a load for when I need a quick meal. How do you guys feel about carbs? I have been trying to stay away from them but I saw a recipe for a healthy lasagne using zucchini for the pasta, with mince, herbs, cottage cheese and sweet potatoe. I was thinking I might give it a try, sweet potatoes is healthier than normal potatoes right? I'm definitely trying to be a little more adventurous with food as I don't want to get bored with what I'm eating.

My skin has been doing ok so far, I have a few coffee scrubs at home, I didn't realise they were good for loose skin so I'll definitely get using them. That's a great tip!!

With my exercise it's not been easy but I have A friend at work who has been encouraging me and meeting me in the gym before work which has been a great support.

I feel like it so easy to be healthy during the week but come the weekend I find it harder, I have been avoiding lunches and social drinks etc which is getting to me a little, I'm feeling a little bored at weekends and like I'm missing out but I keep telling myself it's a sacrifice I have to make to get my life back on track. It'll be worth it in the end.

Thank you for the advice and support, it means a lot!

Pam

 

[April]

Tough girl! Let me shake your hand for fighting the hunger and managing to get back into the comfortable appetite zone! As for the side effects, purrrrfect! No bad things + something to remind you that you should drink more water.

Ha! Cottage cheese just got a new fan! =)) The best thing about it is that you can eat it as it is, with some natural yogurt and fruits/berries, or with greens (and/or garlic) as a snack with fresh tomatoes/cucumbers or grilled zucchini/tomatoes/aubergines/etc., or make a lovely cottage cheese pudding with natural cocoa powder/ cinnamon / lemon (orange) zest / apples/raspberry/etc to turn your breakfasts into small feasts. =))

As for the lasagna with zucchini, absolutely love it! However, do not totally cut the carbohydrates from your diet. Choose healthy ones.

It’s ok. Weekends always make us relaxed. When I was losing weight, I found out that it’s a lot easier for me to remain on the dieting track, if I just start experimenting in the kitchen. So, I made food not an issue, but an inspiration. Besides, I was also trying to go out with my family as much, as possible. As for lunches and social drinks… is there a possibility to choose something healthier for lunch. Even the Maccas have healthy food choices, if you avoid their heavy sauces. If you know, where a meeting is planned, search through this place online menu or give them a phone call and find out what healthy options they have. Then simply order it. If friends start asking about you dieting and stuff, and you don’t want to let them know, just say you had a hearty breakfast and don’t really feel like eating at all. If it’s not somebody’s business, then let it be so. As for drinks… I would suggest trying alcohol-free versions of cocktails. Mojito is the best option (for me personally). Just some suggestions… I hate feeling that you feel like life is passing by, when in fact you are making huge changes for a better and healthier life that should make you happy and proud of yourself. Chin up and have a great day!
PS. try to talk your friends into active pastime, like a paintball game or something... =) may be you have offers available for some swimming pool fun. time to get more adventurous!

 

[pammie]

Thanks so much for the advice April, its really helping. Im starting to get creative with food now, im making an effort to cook at the weekends. I made a flourless zucchini pie at the weekend and it was yummy! I took it to work a few days for lunches with a salad and it was fab!

With socialising I have been very strict so far as I felt I needed to give myself the best chance of succeeding. I think now I've lost some weight I don't want to mess it up so I can be a little more relaxed about it. I have a friends birthday this weekend so I will have a look online at the menu and see what I can have.

I've also increased my gym sessions to 4 days per week. 45 mins cardio. EEK, I am feeling so much fitter and like I want to keep challenging myself. Who knew I had it in me? lol.. I never ever thought I'd be the girl that went to the gym before work and now I am loving it!

I've just had my week 4 weigh in and I am delighted.

Stats so far....
Starting weight - 133.5kg
Week 1 - 128.5kg (-5kg)
Week 2 - 126.4 (-2.1kg, total 7.1kg)
Week 3 - 125.2 (-1.2kg, Total 8.3kg)
Week 4 - 124kg (-1.2kg, Total 9.5kg)

 

[April]

Oh dear, Pammie! I am so happy for you! For so many changes for better, for so many things that you have discovered about yourself during this journey! I am sure your friends will notice the changes in you. And I don’t mean just the weight you lost (it should already be noticeable in your face, neckline and back, I think. C’mon, start taking photos!!! It’s time so that you can see your success). I think they will notice that you are shining, sparkling from the inside. =) I bet you were a happy and cheerful person all the time, yet you did change over this month. Let’s see how it goes. Did you try any festive clothes already? Noticed any changes?

Well done on that gym! You should be really proud of yourself and your challenging spirit. Don’t lose it, because it can take you very very far!

CONGRATULATIONS!!! WOOO-HOOO!!! YIPPEE!!! Great success! 9.5 kg in 4 weeks! You rock, Pammie!

PS. Keep being creative with your food. I think you are witnessing the birth of a new healthy-eating chef! =))

 

[pammie]

Ok girls so I am super duper pleased to report my 5 week weigh in results!!! I seem to have shifted a gear in the last few weeks. Not changed anything I am doing but something is working its magic. Still exercising 4 days per week and i'm feeling really good! Lets hope it continues.

Stats so far....
Starting weight - 133.5kg
Week 1 - 128.5kg (-5kg)
Week 2 - 126.4 (-2.1kg, total 7.1kg)
Week 3 - 125.2 (-1.2kg, Total 8.3kg)
Week 4 - 123 (-2.2kg, total 10.5kg)
Week 5 - 121kg (-2kg total 12.5kg)

 

[April]

Wow there! Wowsy! Pammie, you’re totally killing it! Well done! I am sure your body looks a lot more toned and fit now. Keep going, girl, the success haunts you! =) My applause and I think you should be very proud with your efforts and life changes!

Btw, how did that birthday party go? Did you go there? Was it easy to make healthier food choices?

Have a lovely day, Pammie, and keep that smile on your face all the time!

 

[pammie]

Hi Girls, 6 weeks down already, gosh time is flying!!! I have hit a bit of a slump, feeling a little defeated like I have a long way to go, I'm struggling with my friends who drink every weekend and enjoy lavish meals out, they don't understand how important this is to me and why I'm wanting to abstain from it. I know my triggers and when I drink alcohol, I always end up making poor food choice. Anyway, I know this is for the best and my health has to be my priority but I cant help wishing I was having fun with my friends. Sad story over.... My week 6 results are in.....High 5 for me!

Week 1 - 128.5kg (-5kg)
Week 2 - 126.4 (-2.1kg, total 7.1kg)
Week 3 - 125.2 (-1.2kg, Total 8.3kg)
Week 4 - 123 (-2.2kg, total 10.5kg)
Week 5 - 121kg (-2kg total 12.5kg)
Week 6 - 119.6 (-1.4kg total 13.9kg)

 

[April]

Heeey! You keep smashing it! high 5 for you, girl!!! The results are fantastic. And your willpower… astonishing. You know where you want to get, and you keep struggling with each and any obstacle you meet on your way. Time to make some new friends there, in the gym? =)) They will understand and support you for sure. =) Just an idea… not telling to part to old friends. However, live support is always precious, when you need to go on and on. Pammie, just look, you are half way through Duromine, and yes, time does fly fast, and your results keep building to a pretty fantastic weight loss. Feeling down at times might be hard, I understand… did you try to talk your friends into a more energetic pastime? Hope, you will continue being so strong and fighting your own weaknesses.. for the sake of your own health… I am sure you will come out a winner of this fight every time. Keep it up! Have a great day! =)

 

[corney090]

I think you just make a scientific plan. I wish you can make it.

 

[April]

Hi Pammie! How are you doing? How was the weekend? Is your weigh in tomorrow? Feeling excited? =) so many questions… =)) overly curious here. Wondering if you get to the round number. =)) have a fantastic week!!!