| | Water Fasting

New to IF, trying to make too many changes at once.

Hi, I am a 29 YOF, weighing 182 pounds with \~38% body fat and a BMI of 27.7 which puts me in the overweight category. My goal weight is 165 (Even though my ideal weight is \~141). I started my weight loss journey 11/9/2020 with Noom, and lost 20 lbs (was 200lb starting weight) and have gained some back since then. I am still very active - cycling/running/light weights, but have not seen any progress over the past \~6 months. I have read the Obesity Code by Dr. Fung and his guide to intermittent fasting, but wanted to reach out to this group for advice, tips, motivation etc. I have been trying IF for about a week - ending my eating at 2000 and resuming at 1400 the next day, but find it extremely hard to do on work days (I work 7 on 7 off 12 hour shifts in and ER/inpatient) especially with all of the unhealthy food around on the units. Right now I feel pretty crappy about how my body looks and the fact that I let myself gain \~60lbs since graduating college in 2017. I also LOVE my coffee in the mornings but also like to to had 1/2 and 1/2 or flavored creamer which I know is not a true fast and is adding to my calorie/sugar content during the day. Thank you in advance for reading my post and offering advice.

Answer

How would you feel about a slightly altered OMAD schedule? You could start your day with coffee, as you like, then sit down to one meal within your window. If you give yourself the added motivation of a cheat day, say one every two weeks (or even one week), you’ll have a reward for sticking with it.

For something extra…one of the things that keep us gaining weight (as I’m sure you’re aware) is not recognizing when we’re full. This may be a throwback from childhood, but it keeps many people finishing their plate regardless. OMAD actually trains your stomach to listen to your brain. When you feel full, stop. Even when you don’t feel you’ve eaten enough, keep in mind there’s always more on the horizon.

Lastly, don’t try and do too much at once. You know how they teach alcoholics not to trade one addiction for another? If you’re instituting a change to your diet regimen, too much physical activity can put added strain on your system. Something to keep in mind running/cycling, and weight-lifting.

Hope this helps.

Answer

the first comment is great imo, but if youre not up to it heres an alternative-try 16:8, dont limit your calories from normal, switch to black coffee (with a pinch of salt if its too bitter), avoid snacks. remove sugar from diet.

and measure your progress on a weekly/bi-weekly basis.