Does that mean I still work out, still eat healthy and still take some supplements to help? SURE! It may not be as much as when I was actively losing, but it doesn't take as much effort to maintain in my case.
So what is it like now for me? Do I still struggle with my self image? Yes, actually, I do sometimes. My self image is greatly improved though!!! I carry myself, nowadays, much better overall as a person! Have I fluctuated at all? Being transparent, yea, sure! Case-in-point, I had back/kidney stone issues back in April that cause a minor fluctuation (not much AT ALL), but getting back to normal routines has gotten me back to where I need to be!
Do people still get surprised? YES. It's sometimes weird for me that it was that dramatic and that there are still people who haven't seen me and will walk right by me without recognizing me. It happened the other day! I still get the same old question of, "How did you do it???" I also still encourage a lot of people in their journeys or help people get kick-started in theirs.
So how have my habits changed from when I was initially losing to now that I'm just maintaining?
*I still do my best to monitor portion sizes. In fact, practically every time I go to a sit down restaurant (with the exception being sushi), I box up half my food. I also stick to the menu items that indicate "Healthy and Fit" or give a Calorie count. I try to make my lunch instead of eat out. When I eat high carb meals, I'll take a Carb Blocker (just like when I was losing) to help out (doesn't give me permission to eat more carbs, but just to help block the ones I am eating). I still don't eat terribly a lot of sugars or sweets. Doesn't mean I don't treat myself occasionally! I rarely drink soda (ask me about "healthy" energy drinks though!). I drink A LOT of water (I add various flavors to them! Think "twist tube" supplements).
*I still work out. Wish I could tell you that you can stop exercising once you get healthy and fit, but you can't really for an active and healthy life. I'm not in the gym 5-7 times a week because of my busy schedule, but I'm in there regularly 3-5 times a week. I do a lot more running and a lot more weight training. I use Sports Nutrition products to help with endurance and recovery during/after my workouts (they make a TREMENDOUS difference). I run races. In fact, races give me short term goals to strive for. I'm always wanting to improve my times.
*I still take supplements. Nowadays, instead of the more targeted "weightloss" supplements, I take more of the preventative or muscle building (don't worry, I don't want to be the Hulk, just lean) type ones. I eat more protein and strive for more fulfilling foods. I take a multi-vitamin everyday that is good for my overall health (I rarely get sick).
*I set personal goals. One of my main ones is to run a half marathon and then a full marathon. I strive to encourage 1 person a day as best I can in their health/fitness goals. The biggest daily goal I have is to have a Positive Mental Attitude about all aspects of life (PMA). Did you know that just changing your attitude can help with your health? :) Start with small goals and you'll see that they are more achievable, but remember to set that long term goal as a reminder.
I'm sure some of you might be thinking, she's just trying to sell me something. SURE. I'm trying to get you to buy into your own life! I do "sell" things that can help jump-start your journey or help you just get healthier and more fit, but that's not really the point. The point is your health. I can't tell you how much losing weight has changed my whole life. My blood pressure is a healthy 102/60. I have a resting heart rate in the 50s. My iron levels (which I do supplement) are higher. I'm stronger, leaner, and I inspire myself on a daily basis (not to mention others have said they are inspired).
I did this for myself. I did it to prove to myself I could do it. I did it so I can live longer. I overcame what I could control. In that process, I became a better me in ALL aspects. And now I share it because this journey is for you, too. You can do it! Just give yourself a shot, and if I can do anything, and I mean ANYTHING, to help, just ask.
"Health is a choice, so choose wisely!" ~Dr. Chet Zelasko
Before (June 2007) -- After (October 2011)
