STILLMAN DIET THREAD- OCTOBER 2012

[Leo41]

Mim- I have been 'at goal' for almost 2 years. My 'goal' range is 143-47, but I'd like to stay at the lower end of that range.

However, I have Hashimoto's (hypothyroid), and I've had periodic problems with my T3 hormones (which control metabolism). When they drop lower than the lab range, I experience incredible fatigue and 'instant' weight gain. The first time this happened, it was 10 lbs in 2 weeks--while I was eating in 'weight-loss' mode. So I've had some 'ups and downs' over the past 2 years due to this hormonal problem. Each time, my endo increases my dosage and I'm stable again, but the weight has to come off the same old-fashioned way by eating much less.

However, the sudden weight gain I experienced last week, while hormonal I'm sure, seems to be resolving without meds increase, as I'm losing back into my goal range. So this is more mysterious.

This is a warning--TOM 'issues' don't vanish with menopause--they are just more quirky and unpredictable

[BrattyS]

Originally Posted by Leo41

What's been happening is just amazing, but I suspect it has more to do with the hormonal issues I've been dealing with than with my eating--i.e., I'm losing far too fast for this to be a 'normal' weight loss, but I also gained far too quickly for it to be a 'normal' gain. It's also not entirely 'water' related (although I am prone to water retention) because I haven't been 'losing' water in any significant amounts.

However, I've made one 'discovery.' Since I've been maintaining (2 years), I've struggled to keep my calories as low as I need to, and this confused me because it's a higher level than I ate during weight loss, and I was totally satisfied then. Why should I be less satisfied eating more?

One difference (and I think this is a big one) is that in maintenance, I started 'fussing' more with my food--I stayed low carb, but I prepared my meals with more spices and looked for ways to do things a little 'differently.'

To do Stillman's, I kept things very simple--cooked up a batch of turkey burgers, seasoning only with salt, pepper, and a little spicy mustard, poached a big bag of tilapia (on sale) just simply in water, and I also have egg whites. That's all I'm eating this week--and it was all planned and prepared on Sunday

Because now everything is prepared (or almost prepared--I make egg white 'omelets' in the microwave), I don't think about my food and have virtually no preparation--and I have had zero appetite!

Keep in mind that I'm someone who has an appetite on almost zero carbs when I'm more 'invested' in food preparation.

I don't intend to eat like this forever, but I suspect that 'uninvolvement' with food may be the key to my long-term maintenance once I add in a little fat down the road to do my usual low-carb eating.

Wow. I just noticed your stats and that you have been maintaining for 2 years.That is amazing. I am with you. I love pre making my food for the week and just reheating. When I am on plan I want to be as distanced from dealing with food as possible. I can't imagine the frustration of having to suddenly gain 10 pounds for no good reason. I hope you are able to get it off quickly!

Originally Posted by Mim

Good morning! Last night I had the urge to eat off plan. The feeling was a combination of binge and wanting something good to eat. Since I couldn't put my finger on what I wanted to eat that would satisfy me, and I chose not to binge, I made it through the feeling and was rewarded with a .5 loss this morning! Life is good!

Fabulous control. I love how it feels when I decide not to binge.

Originally Posted by FitMommyNow

I'm down another 2 pounds this morning which makes 4 pounds total for the past two days! This is normal for me on very low carb and it will slow down going forth. Still so glad to be back on track.

My plan is to stay on strict Stillmans until the 20th or 21st. We plan to eat out for our anniversary and I know I'll have a glass of wine and likely split some dessert with my husband. Not planning to go crazy past that (dinner will be a piece of fish and veggies). It will knock me out of ketosis but I will jump right back on Stillmans at the very next meal. After that, I plan to stay on Stillmans until Thanksgiving with a few Atkins meals thrown in (likely once a week) for sanity.

My hope is to get firmly into the 190's before Thanksgiving and maintain there using Stillmans between holiday meals until the first of the year. Then, it's a full on Stillmans to work towards GOAL.

You should have no problem getting into the 190s by Thanksgiving. As long as you can get right back on plan after that dinner you will be just fine. That is the hard part for me. I can never get back on plan the next day. It usually derails be for weeks.

[Mar922]

When is thanksgiving for you guys?

[Mar922]

So I was at 160.2 this morning, not bad!! I think that's just under a 2 pound loss from the week before because I didn't lose a thing last week thanks to TOM

[CoCo]

Originally Posted by Leo41

This week, I'm limiting myself to turkey burgers (homemade with just a little mustard for spice), tilapia (plain, poached), and egg whites.

Normally, I always eat low carb and limit myself to about 20g daily.

But eating this way, my appetite has vanished! It's amazing. I am down a few pounds already, but I'm not claiming it (or changing my stats) just yet because I'm familiar with water fluctuations. I'll give myself a few more days before I 'count' it.

I'm loving this--and am surprised because normal low carb just takes the 'edge' off my appetite, but this protein plan really killed my appetite, making it much easier to restrict my calories as low as I need to for loss.

Nice to not feel hungry all the time!

[CoCo]

Originally Posted by Angelstill

As I said previously this works but it is very difficult to stay on .... I lost most of my weight with the turkey burger diet .... much luck to those who try this WOE !!!!

So what is the turkey burger diet?

[CoCo]

Originally Posted by Mim

Good morning! Last night I had the urge to eat off plan. The feeling was a combination of binge and wanting something good to eat. Since I couldn't put my finger on what I wanted to eat that would satisfy me, and I chose not to binge, I made it through the feeling and was rewarded with a .5 loss this morning! Life is good!

Way to go Mim, you should feel proud!

[janejane40]

Hi Guys...I'm brand new here and looking for some support! I'm starting Stillman's hard core tomorrow because I'm sick of carrying all this weight around! I lowered my calorie intake and cut out most junk food (with an occasional cheat day here and there)-and was working out about an hour and a half 6 days a week, and I only lost about 4 lbs in a month (frustrating)! So I heard about Stillmans and am hoping to have more success this way! I would like to lose about 70 lbs (I'm currently 217). I do enjoy working out now...has anyone found that exercise either helps or hinders their progress on this diet? Any other tips for someone starting out? Thanks in advance!

[CoCo]

Stat Report:

Started Oct 1st @ 165.2
Yesterday 159
This morning 157.9 down one 1.1

All of us are doing so good

[CoCo]

Originally Posted by janejane40

Hi Guys...I'm brand new here and looking for some support! I'm starting Stillman's hard core tomorrow because I'm sick of carrying all this weight around! I lowered my calorie intake and cut out most junk food (with an occasional cheat day here and there)-and was working out about an hour and a half 6 days a week, and I only lost about 4 lbs in a month (frustrating)! So I heard about Stillmans and am hoping to have more success this way! I would like to lose about 70 lbs (I'm currently 217). I do enjoy working out now...has anyone found that exercise either helps or hinders their progress on this diet? Any other tips for someone starting out? Thanks in advance!

JaneJane, Stillman's is the best method I have ever found to lose the weight. For me it works fast and that is something that I need to stay on track. If I work hard just to lose a pound or less a week, I will usually give up. There might be a time on Stillman's that I only lose one pound in a week, but soon after I will go down 4-5 pounds. It sure helps to keep the focus. Hang out with us, this is a wonderful group of lady's who are very helpful and supportive. I highly recommend it! As for me the only exercise that I do is rebounding once in a while, I take a walk most days and I clean my 5,000 sq foot house, that's alot of cleaning. I'm looking for a housekeeper! Stillman's will take the weight off, but strength training will tone you up. I'm going to start my Calantic's again soon.

[CoCo]

Originally Posted by Mar922

So I was at 160.2 this morning, not bad!! I think that's just under a 2 pound loss from the week before because I didn't lose a thing last week thanks to TOM

Hi Mar, I glad your back! Now you need to meet me, at 157.9 this morning! It's very nice down here, come on down! I know it will only take you a day or two to get there. Thanksgiving here in the US is Nov 22nd.

[Leo41]

janejane-

Almost all the experts agree that weight loss is 90% what we eat (or don't eat:-). Exercise is always good for staying toned and healthy but does not contribute significantly to weight loss itself.

In fact, Dr. Michael Eades (of ProteinPower) suggests that anyone embarking on a weight-loss program focus solely on food at first. He argues that as we lose weight, our bodies will impel us to 'move more,' and we'll be more naturally inclined to exercise. To try to begin restricting eating and exercising at the same time, Dr. Eades argues, is too likely to lead to fast burn out.

What he describes is exactly my own experience.

[janejane40]

Originally Posted by CoCo

JaneJane, Stillman's is the best method I have ever found to lose the weight. For me it works fast and that is something that I need to stay on track. If I work hard just to lose a pound or less a week, I will usually give up. There might be a time on Stillman's that I only lose one pound in a week, but soon after I will go down 4-5 pounds. It sure helps to keep the focus. Hang out with us, this is a wonderful group of lady's who are very helpful and supportive. I highly recommend it!

Thank you, CoCo! I am kind of an instant gratification person. I'm definitely willing to go strict in order to see progress...the slow way just doesn't work to keep me motivated. Could you guys let me know what you think about what I was planning to eat tomorrow? I think I'm clear on the rules but I want to make sure I'm doing it right as not to sabotage myself before I even get going! I was going to have a combination of these things:
Hard boiled eggs
plain chicken breast
water packed tuna from a can
lean steak

I know some people say the low fat cheese and/or sugar free jello hinders them. Has this been the experience of most people? Thank you!

PS-how do I get my profile picture to show up? Or can I just see everyone's but my own? Haha. Can you tell I'm new?!

[janejane40]

Originally Posted by Leo41

janejane-

Almost all the experts agree that weight loss is 90% what we eat (or don't eat:-). Exercise is always good for staying toned and healthy but does not contribute significantly to weight loss itself.

In fact, Dr. Michael Eades (of ProteinPower) suggests that anyone embarking on a weight-loss program focus solely on food at first. He argues that as we lose weight, our bodies will impel us to 'move more,' and we'll be more naturally inclined to exercise. To try to begin restricting eating and exercising at the same time, Dr. Eades argues, is too likely to lead to fast burn out.

What he describes is exactly my own experience.

Thank you, Leo! That actually makes a lot of sense. If I get a serious hankering to work out, I'll start small with my kettlebell or something. I appreciate the advice!

[BrattyS]

Originally Posted by janejane40

Thank you, CoCo! I am kind of an instant gratification person. I'm definitely willing to go strict in order to see progress...the slow way just doesn't work to keep me motivated. Could you guys let me know what you think about what I was planning to eat tomorrow? I think I'm clear on the rules but I want to make sure I'm doing it right as not to sabotage myself before I even get going! I was going to have a combination of these things:
Hard boiled eggs
plain chicken breast
water packed tuna from a can
lean steak

I know some people say the low fat cheese and/or sugar free jello hinders them. Has this been the experience of most people? Thank you!

PS-how do I get my profile picture to show up? Or can I just see everyone's but my own? Haha. Can you tell I'm new?!

Welcome You can eat any lean meat, turkey, chicken, tuna, fish, eggs ect. Cheese and SF Jello tend to slow my loss down but I will add them and some higher fat meats (bacon!) on days I am struggling. Artificial sugars also slow me down but it is a necessary evil for me. I can not drink plain water. Best of luck with Stillmans. It is a fast way to lose weight.

Originally Posted by Mar922

When is thanksgiving for you guys?

This year is the 22nd of November

Originally Posted by CoCo

Stat Report:

Started Oct 1st @ 165.2
Yesterday 159
This morning 157.9 down one 1.1

All of us are doing so good

Congrats!

[zenpeacock]

Originally Posted by janejane40

Hi Guys...I'm brand new here and looking for some support! I'm starting Stillman's hard core tomorrow because I'm sick of carrying all this weight around! I lowered my calorie intake and cut out most junk food (with an occasional cheat day here and there)-and was working out about an hour and a half 6 days a week, and I only lost about 4 lbs in a month (frustrating)! So I heard about Stillmans and am hoping to have more success this way! I would like to lose about 70 lbs (I'm currently 217). I do enjoy working out now...has anyone found that exercise either helps or hinders their progress on this diet? Any other tips for someone starting out? Thanks in advance!

Hi there! Glad you decided on Stillmans, I think you'll enjoy the ease and results. The key is to just stick with it, do the plan as stated and you'll lose weight. Good luck on your first day, you can do it!

[zenpeacock]

Yesterday was day 6 and I was up .8

Today I'm back down to the same weight I was at on Tuesday 191.2.

Weird.

However, in the past 7 days (Weds to Weds) I went from 197 to 191.2 .... so that's nothing to sneeze at. PLUS today my waist measured in at a full inch smaller than last week! Now, THAT I can handle!

My fiance thinks I'm insane eating this way, but he's supportive. Every morning he's up boiling me eggs and baking chicken breasts. He's a keeper. What he doesn't realize is that in the past week, we've been on 4 walks and have eaten 90% less fat than usual. So, it's a win-win for both of us

[FitMommyNow]

Looks like everyone is doing great!!!

JaneJane! - Our stats/age are similar. I totally understand what it's like to work super hard to only lose a few pounds very slowly. On Stillmans, I've lost 4 pounds in the past two days! LOL

[janejane40]

You guys are great! Thank you all for the warm welcome and encouragement. I think I'm gunna like it here!

[BrattyS]

Originally Posted by zenpeacock

Yesterday was day 6 and I was up .8

Today I'm back down to the same weight I was at on Tuesday 191.2.

Weird.

However, in the past 7 days (Weds to Weds) I went from 197 to 191.2 .... so that's nothing to sneeze at. PLUS today my waist measured in at a full inch smaller than last week! Now, THAT I can handle!

My fiance thinks I'm insane eating this way, but he's supportive. Every morning he's up boiling me eggs and baking chicken breasts. He's a keeper. What he doesn't realize is that in the past week, we've been on 4 walks and have eaten 90% less fat than usual. So, it's a win-win for both of us

7 pounds in a week is great! Most people think I am crazy eating this way. Thankfully my husband is doing it with me. It is awesome that your fiance helps you out. It makes it so much easier to have a bit of support.

[makemeslim]

Have not checked in for a few days, Ok maybe it was nearly a week....been in carbville. Really need to get a week under my belt and then work out my maintenance plan. Its not that I gain lots of weight, I just hate the yucky bloated feeling I get....it makes me feel fat, regardless of low numbers. Got my meat and eggs in and will be taking off tomorrow. Hope everyone is doing well. Will try and catch up with the posts.

[makemeslim]

Originally Posted by CCGirl

Coco, JMHO, a getaway weekend should be just that; getaway with your honey and have a good time. Do what feels comfortable. Time together can never be replaced. Diets are forever.


MMS, unfoortunately the drama has just begun. The fur will really begin flying when the will becomes public record and middle son realizes his personal ATM is no more.

Oh dear....you really do have some drama to come. I don't know what to say....I guess its hard to switch off in situations like that but you are a strong woman and I know you will get through all of this.

[makemeslim]

Originally Posted by catne

Trick or treat ! No sweets ! Give me something Stillman's to eat !

Funny, Christine! Love it. Sounds like a good goal for the Halloween party...you can do it.

CCGirl, hope the drama is less than expected. "Family" often produces the worst drama though, like all the rules of good behavior don't apply Best wishes for a smoother October...hope the step-family situation improves for you & your mom.

Coco, I agree with CC...enjoy your getaway weekend. If you want to minimize damage, apply the "moderation" code (OK to have what you want, but don't stuff yourself.) You can come back and hop right back on plan.

Makemeslim...funny how each of us are so different. I can eat the little bit of yogurt on Stillman's and still lose, but cheese stalls me right out. And you're the opposite. Just another proof there's no one-size-fits-all in the real world.

Trendyl...awesome to see that scale go down right away. KUTGW.

hello to anyone I've missed.

Done with my coffee, time to get in gear and get the last few boxes unpacked! Later, folks.

Keep calm and carry on

Nicely put!

[makemeslim]

Originally Posted by healthy for life

Hey guys! I now down 9.5 pounds in 14 days on strict stillmans! this plan produces incredible results. For anyone who is struggling just know if you stick to it, the weight will come off! I am leaving for Hawaii on Sat and I couldn't be happier to be going 10 lbs lighter than I was just 14 days ago

You are now in Hawaii but wanted to say well done anyway.

[makemeslim]

Originally Posted by IM2fat

Look at all you awesome losers! OMG> . I really wish I had something good to report.. I've been up/down. .down/up . ....story of my life.. I am trying to embrace an active lifestyle.. joined the gym and found that I really hate exercising. . but I keep going . .because i have to. .

Nothing new to report on the losing front.. I guess the only saving grace is that I haven't gained. .. that, in itself, is a plus for me. .

just wanted to say HI and I am sure I'll check in again. .thinking about doing Stillmans for a week or two. . I know I can't stay on it as long as I used to .but I can do a quick cleanse and move forward..

!!

Hi I'm2. The shoes are too funny!

[makemeslim]

Originally Posted by Mim

And as for me? I've lost a pound! I'm so excited because it puts me solidly in a new set of tens! I'm feeling great!

Well done Mim!

[makemeslim]

BBT. NIght all. x

[Mar922]

Originally Posted by CoCo

Hi Mar, I glad your back! Now you need to meet me, at 157.9 this morning! It's very nice down here, come on down! I know it will only take you a day or two to get there. Thanksgiving here in the US is Nov 22nd.

Hopefully I will join you there at the end of the week!

[reptogirl]

hi all, i was here back earlier in the year, saw some results, nothing dramatic but i managed to stray away, it isn't an easy diet to stay on, but it seems to be the only thing i can lose on. right now i am about 9 pounds from what my profile weight says so i guess thats my first short term goal this was day 3 on plan and have already dropped a couple of pounds which is good considering i haven't been 100 percent, i know i have had too much fat, and sodium and not enough water, but i am working on it.

[Mar922]

Originally Posted by reptogirl

hi all, i was here back earlier in the year, saw some results, nothing dramatic but i managed to stray away, it isn't an easy diet to stay on, but it seems to be the only thing i can lose on. right now i am about 9 pounds from what my profile weight says so i guess thats my first short term goal this was day 3 on plan and have already dropped a couple of pounds which is good considering i haven't been 100 percent, i know i have had too much fat, and sodium and not enough water, but i am working on it.

Even if you have to slowly go back on plan you are still doing it! I do that sometimes I make sure 2 of my 3 meals are stills if I am having trouble keeping to plan and eventually I end up back on plan without even trying.

I would just up the water to flush out the sodium and keep on plugging along.