I need inspiration, and tips.

[Olliepollie23]

Hello everyone.

I seriously need to lose weight. I actually don’t care what weight I am, but I would like to comfortably wear a size 12 and be healthier and fitter. The last time I was in a size 10/12 was when I was 30, and I had to get down to about 9st 4 for me to fit into clothes that size, so if I think about that, then I will have to lose about 5 stone.

I am 55, 5’5. I’m either peri menopausal or menopausal, I don’t know as I’ve been in HRT for 12 years.
I split up with my ex 5 years ago, lost 30 lbs in 8 weeks, and after a few months, put that all back on and about another 2 stone very very quickly. I ended up in hospital a couple of years ago with acute pancreatitis caused by gallstones, and I know my diet played a part in that. I had my gallbladder removed.

Ive set myself some goals, and one was to lose weight and compared to the other goals, I realised this would be the hardest. Everywhere I look all I see is that it is very very difficult to lose weight at my age, but I’m determined. I don’t drink or smoke/vape, my downfall is I can be lazy with food, and grab junk/takeaways especially as it’s only me to cook for. Chocolate and crisps are my downfall. I don’t actually plan to “diet” just eat more healthy, start walking, trying to get 10 - 15k steps a day and do some weight/resistance training. I do find if I dint eat in the morning, and eat at lunch time, I’m not as hungry during the day, but as I don’t have a gallbladder, I find I end up with an upset stomach.

So, I would love to hear other peoples stories of how they did it, what worked for them, was it difficult? Also, did anyone have any lose skin? I know I’m very likely to have loose skin on my stomach, but that can be hidden, but I’m wondering about my arms and legs.

I’m in menopause, and the only thing that has worked is calorie counting. I count and weigh everything and have lost 3 stone so far with another 9lbs to go. That will put me at 10 stone 5. I’ve no desire to be any smaller to be honest and this has taken me 17 months. I’m bored of it now tbh, I can maintain easy enough but the losses get smaller and slower now. I also walk, swim and weight lift.
i have a tiny bit of loose skin under my arms and on my tummy and I’m not worried about it all. I still get my arms out and my dh doesn’t seem to mind the little wrinkly bit on my tummy

@socks1107 how did you know what calories to set yourself? I’ve been told the slower the weight loss the less likely there will be lose skin, so small and steady would be good for me. I’m actually only aiming for 1 -1.5lbs a week.

Google a Base Metabolic Rate calculator. Don't panic when you get the first number - mine is just over 1000 calories a day - you then factor in your activity levels. Moderate activity takes mine to about 1600-1700. To lose weight I'd go for a 250-300 deficit a day.

DH and I have both lost weight since Christmas just by applying all the stuff you hear about again and again - cutting down the booze, crisps and sweets and making sure our meals are healthy with a high veg content, and sensible portion sizes. I've also changed exercise by swopping some runs for weights/strength work although I'm not sure if that's contributed anything.

It feels GREAT.