Tuesday, October 31, 2006
'30-In-30' Challenge Week 13 Update
Now how coincidental is it that Week 13 for the "30-in-30" Low-Carb Weight Loss Challenge would fall right smack dab on Halloween?! Scary, isn't it? I hope everyone has a great time today dressing up in costumes or spending time with your kids.
Whatever you do, don't fall into the trap of thinking you can have just a nibble or two of sugary candy today. You know what will happen if you do...YOU'LL EAT IT ALL! Trust me, I've been there, so it's best just to avoid eating ANY and you'll be just fine. Do we have a deal? GOOD!
This actually leads me into something I wanted to talk about today. I don't know about you, but lately in my weight loss I have felt a surge of energy and motivation inside of me that I haven't experienced since my first weight loss in 2004. I'm not sure what it is, but I just feel that extra "ummph" from within to kick up my routine another notch.
For example, in the past week, I have paid more attention to the kinds of foods I am letting in my mouth. Not that I EVER eat any junk, but I was THAT much more conscious about it this week. My consumption of green leafy vegetables, green beans and cauliflower went WAY up by design. I also have added more low-glycemic fruits like blueberries into the mix. While I still eat my low-carb chocolate bars (ChocoPerfection, baby!) and even CarbSmart Ice Cream, I am focused on hitting that goal of 199 pounds. AND I WILL!
Regarding my exercise routine, I started RUNNING on the treadmill for the first time ever. While I enjoy the elliptical machine, I know running on the treadmill will burn more calories and improve my weight loss. Keep in mind that I'm in pretty good shape after exercising daily for almost three years now, so don't feel like you need to run, too. The point is to take whatever you are doing right now and push yourself to take the next step up. It's a challenge, but YOU CAN DO IT!
This mindset of determination to succeed is what will actually make you succeed. No matter how hard you think weight loss is (and IT IS!), there is always hope when you don't stop believing that it IS genuinely possible. Do you think I ever had thoughts of giving up when I was losing 180 pounds in 2004? Sure I did and those are natural. But how you respond to those nagging negative ideas that pop in your head is the difference between those who win at losing versus those who do not.
Your assignment for this week is to start thinking more positively about what you are doing right now in the midst of this amazing weight loss journey you have taken with me. What are the good things you notice happening to you? What changes are other people starting to notice in you? Do you feel a little zip in your step and feel like you can take on any challenge that comes your way?
If you could not answer any of those questions in the affirmative, then it's time for an attitude adjustment. I'll send Bruno right over to knock some sense into ya! :D
Seriously, it's time to get EXCITED people because we have found a way to eat that not only tastes good, but is good for you, too! Don't ever forget that the low-carb lifestyle is being proven in study after study as not only a great way to lose weight, but to live a long and healthy life. You may not get much support from the media, your doctor, or your friends and family, but you DO have support here and from an ever-growing body of evidence that proves you are right to be on low-carb.
Okay, so are you gonna make some changes in your perspective this week? Get positive, implement new routines that take you to the next level, and be confident that the improvements you are making will last a lifetime. GO GET 'EM!
How did I do this week after getting back on the losing track in Week 12 with a 5-pound weight loss? Check it out:
For the second week in a row, ANOTHER FIVE POUNDS ARE GONE!!! That 10.5-pound weight gain I had back in Week 11 is almost completely negated now as I remain focused on hitting that glorious goal of 199...MAYBE BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR! That would be so AWESOME! WOO HOO!
When I went to the YMCA over the weekend, a personal trainer there named Rodney who has been an encouragement to me since I first started losing weight a few years back said he could tell I've lost some more weight. I told him I'm close to being at my lowest weight ever as an adult. He gushed about my continued progress and said to keep at it. YOU KNOW I WILL! :)
How was YOUR Week 13? Talk about it right here, right now...
Whatever you do, don't fall into the trap of thinking you can have just a nibble or two of sugary candy today. You know what will happen if you do...YOU'LL EAT IT ALL! Trust me, I've been there, so it's best just to avoid eating ANY and you'll be just fine. Do we have a deal? GOOD!
This actually leads me into something I wanted to talk about today. I don't know about you, but lately in my weight loss I have felt a surge of energy and motivation inside of me that I haven't experienced since my first weight loss in 2004. I'm not sure what it is, but I just feel that extra "ummph" from within to kick up my routine another notch.
For example, in the past week, I have paid more attention to the kinds of foods I am letting in my mouth. Not that I EVER eat any junk, but I was THAT much more conscious about it this week. My consumption of green leafy vegetables, green beans and cauliflower went WAY up by design. I also have added more low-glycemic fruits like blueberries into the mix. While I still eat my low-carb chocolate bars (ChocoPerfection, baby!) and even CarbSmart Ice Cream, I am focused on hitting that goal of 199 pounds. AND I WILL!
Regarding my exercise routine, I started RUNNING on the treadmill for the first time ever. While I enjoy the elliptical machine, I know running on the treadmill will burn more calories and improve my weight loss. Keep in mind that I'm in pretty good shape after exercising daily for almost three years now, so don't feel like you need to run, too. The point is to take whatever you are doing right now and push yourself to take the next step up. It's a challenge, but YOU CAN DO IT!
This mindset of determination to succeed is what will actually make you succeed. No matter how hard you think weight loss is (and IT IS!), there is always hope when you don't stop believing that it IS genuinely possible. Do you think I ever had thoughts of giving up when I was losing 180 pounds in 2004? Sure I did and those are natural. But how you respond to those nagging negative ideas that pop in your head is the difference between those who win at losing versus those who do not.
Your assignment for this week is to start thinking more positively about what you are doing right now in the midst of this amazing weight loss journey you have taken with me. What are the good things you notice happening to you? What changes are other people starting to notice in you? Do you feel a little zip in your step and feel like you can take on any challenge that comes your way?
If you could not answer any of those questions in the affirmative, then it's time for an attitude adjustment. I'll send Bruno right over to knock some sense into ya! :D
Seriously, it's time to get EXCITED people because we have found a way to eat that not only tastes good, but is good for you, too! Don't ever forget that the low-carb lifestyle is being proven in study after study as not only a great way to lose weight, but to live a long and healthy life. You may not get much support from the media, your doctor, or your friends and family, but you DO have support here and from an ever-growing body of evidence that proves you are right to be on low-carb.
Okay, so are you gonna make some changes in your perspective this week? Get positive, implement new routines that take you to the next level, and be confident that the improvements you are making will last a lifetime. GO GET 'EM!
How did I do this week after getting back on the losing track in Week 12 with a 5-pound weight loss? Check it out:
For the second week in a row, ANOTHER FIVE POUNDS ARE GONE!!! That 10.5-pound weight gain I had back in Week 11 is almost completely negated now as I remain focused on hitting that glorious goal of 199...MAYBE BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR! That would be so AWESOME! WOO HOO!
When I went to the YMCA over the weekend, a personal trainer there named Rodney who has been an encouragement to me since I first started losing weight a few years back said he could tell I've lost some more weight. I told him I'm close to being at my lowest weight ever as an adult. He gushed about my continued progress and said to keep at it. YOU KNOW I WILL! :)
How was YOUR Week 13? Talk about it right here, right now...
Labels: 30-in-30, challenge, inspiration, low-carb, motivation, weight loss
Monday, October 30, 2006
Listen To Episode 2 Of 'The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show' Podcast
My debut podcast cracked the Top 20 Self-Help Health shows at iTunes
Did you get a chance to listen to the very first episode of my brand new podcast show last week called "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore?" If you did, then THANK YOU so much for supporting me in this new endeavor as we try to reach more people with the encouraging and positive message about the low-carb lifestyle.
It was an exciting week to see hundreds and hundreds of listeners downloading and listening to a show about the low-carb lifestyle. And it wasn't just people who read my blog either. An entirely new audience for the message of livin' la vida low-carb was reached at iTunes, where "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show" hit #19 on the Self-Help Health podcast shows in just the first week. YEAH! That's so exciting and I fully expect those numbers to continue to climb as more and more people become attracted to an honest and uplifting show about low-carb.
I am thankful for all of your excellent comments and feedback about the show and I think you'll notice some changes for the better in Episode 2 which is ready for you to listen to RIGHT NOW! :) LISTEN NOW for yourself and let me know what you think!
This week's show starts off with me sharing my gratitude to everyone who tuned in to the debut episode, a quick shout-out to my fellow low-carb podcasters Diana Schnuth from “The Low-Carb Lifestyle Podcast” and BrianZ from the “Atkins All The Way Weekly Wrapup,” and a thorough dissertation into how the media openly manipulates so-called scientific research studies to fit their antagonistic views towards livin' la vida low-carb. I don't hold back in exposing this little game the media plays with public health information and hopefully it will help other people become skeptical about any new "study" that is heavily reported.
After listening to the show, you can go back and read the references to studies and books made during Episode 2 by using this list of links mentioned during the broadcast:
- Esophageal Cancer/High-Carb Diet Study
- Kidney Cancer/High-Carb Diet Study
- "Oops I almost did the Atkins diet" Study
- "Cake and Shake" Saturated Fat Study
- "The Pocket Diet" book review
- "The Bread For Life Diet" book review
- "The Diet Code" book review
- "The Great Cholesterol Con" by Anthony Colpo book review
I know what you're thinking, "Shut up already and tell us about the freebies!" Okay, okay, I was getting to that. REALLY, I was! :) After a strong response to last week's ChocoPerfection chocolate bars giveaway, I thought I'd stick with the chocolate theme again this week and let you be one of the first people in the United States to try the scrumptious new GoLower Chocolate Creme Bars.
The winner of this week's contest will receive an entire box of these deliciously healthy low-carb bars that come in raspberry, chocolate and coconut flavors. If you are a fan of the GoLower nut bars, then you MUST try these new chocolate creme bars. Currently only available in the UK, they are set to be available for purchase in America from our friends at CarbSmart within the next few weeks.
Follow these directions carefully to become eligible to win:
1. LISTEN to Episode 2 of "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show."
2. Carefully identify how many times I say the word "Australia."
3. Send me an e-mail with your answer.
4. Include your name and mailing address (no P.O. Boxes please).
5. Share what you liked and disliked about the show. Be honest!
Like last week, I've kept it very simple for you. The deadline for getting your entry to me is Friday, November 3, 2006 at 12:00pm ET if you want to win those GoLower Chocolate Creme bars and be one of the first Americans to try them. Be sure to let me know which flavor you want (raspberry, coconut or chocolate) if your e-mail entry is chosen.
THANK YOU again for supporting me, encouraging me, and cheering me on to great success with my new podcast show. This really is a lot of fun and I would not have this opportunity if it weren't for you. So, just in case I haven't told you how much I appreciate you lately, I REALLY do thank God for everyone I have had the chance to come in contact with through my book, blog, and podcast. You all are a special part of my life and give me the energy and drive to keep doing what I'm doing.
Okay, now go listen to Episode 2 of "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show" and don't be afraid to let me know what you think. I'll be the first to admit that I'm still getting used to the new format, but your comments will only serve to make it the best podcast show it can possibly be. And feel free to leave me feedback in the comments section at "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show" web site. Chow!
Labels: giveaway, inspiration, Jimmy Moore, low-carb, podcast, show, The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show
Sunday, October 29, 2006
'30-In-30' Weight Loss Challenge Holiday Survival Guide
It's almost November, can you believe it?! Before you know it, we'll be in what has been commonly referred to as "the most wonderful time of the year." That's right, it's the holiday season with all the festive fellowships, family gatherings, and...oh yeah, LOTS OF FOOD to add a little temptation to your low-carb lifestyle! EEEEEEK!
Human beings have a strange way of letting things like social pressures and the innate desire to feel connected to those around us that keeps us from staying committed to our diets during the holidays. Oh, don't play dumb with me, you know what I mean: buffets of high-carb foods, tempting desserts, and food constantly at your fingertips defines this time of year. Good thing it only lasts a couple of months or we'd all be a bunch of bouncing beach balls walking around!
But this is a good lesson in sticking with your low-carb plan through the holidays by staying focused on the lifestyle changes you have made. You know you will want to continue on with your success long after Thanksgiving and Christmas are gone, so why give in during these 6-8 weeks of the year? Don't fall for the trap that you must eat, eat, eat away at all that junk food you will feast your eyes on during the holidays just to "fit in." That is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard of!
To help us better understand how to survive the holiday season, we have another video from veteran low-carb dieter Kent Altena who addresses this delicate subject head-on with easy-to-implement solutions for dealing with the potential problems that you will face.
THE HOLIDAYS--PLANNED PROBLEMS OR PLANNED SOLUTIONS?
That's some outstanding advice, Kent! You and I both know how important it is to keep your eye on what is best for you because that is a decision you have to make ahead of time when you start livin' la vida low-carb. Nothing (and I do mean ABSOLUTELY nothing!) should ever get in the way of your low-carb lifestyle. That's why it is called a "lifestyle change" and not just a diet.
If you feel tempted and want to pig out during the holidays, then the transformation in your mind towards eating healthy has not happened yet. That's okay because you WILL get there the longer you stay on low-carb. But giving in because you think you are too weak to resist is UNACCEPTABLE because you will only make yourself MORE depressed when you put on 10, 15, or 20 pounds during the holidays. Don't allow that guilty feeling to hit you and simply dedicate yourself to your low-carb life.
Because this can be difficult for some people to handle, Kent offers you some practical strategies for dealing with the inevitable confrontations you will have with those high-carb foods and the well-meaning folks trying to peddle it to you:
- Be the cook or bring your own low-carb food to holiday functions
- Do more socializing with others instead of mindlessly eating
- Keep yourself busy with activities during the family functions
SUPER TIPS, Kent! Holidays can be stressful, but that doesn't mean your low-carb plan should suffer. Who knows, you may just impress some of your friends and family who may not even know you've lost weight. In fact, don't be surprised if they ask you what you've been doing to shed the pounds so effectively. That's when you can look back at them with a twinkle in your eyes and proudly declare, "I've been livin' la vida low-carb, baby!" You tell 'em! :D
Human beings have a strange way of letting things like social pressures and the innate desire to feel connected to those around us that keeps us from staying committed to our diets during the holidays. Oh, don't play dumb with me, you know what I mean: buffets of high-carb foods, tempting desserts, and food constantly at your fingertips defines this time of year. Good thing it only lasts a couple of months or we'd all be a bunch of bouncing beach balls walking around!
But this is a good lesson in sticking with your low-carb plan through the holidays by staying focused on the lifestyle changes you have made. You know you will want to continue on with your success long after Thanksgiving and Christmas are gone, so why give in during these 6-8 weeks of the year? Don't fall for the trap that you must eat, eat, eat away at all that junk food you will feast your eyes on during the holidays just to "fit in." That is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard of!
To help us better understand how to survive the holiday season, we have another video from veteran low-carb dieter Kent Altena who addresses this delicate subject head-on with easy-to-implement solutions for dealing with the potential problems that you will face.
THE HOLIDAYS--PLANNED PROBLEMS OR PLANNED SOLUTIONS?
That's some outstanding advice, Kent! You and I both know how important it is to keep your eye on what is best for you because that is a decision you have to make ahead of time when you start livin' la vida low-carb. Nothing (and I do mean ABSOLUTELY nothing!) should ever get in the way of your low-carb lifestyle. That's why it is called a "lifestyle change" and not just a diet.
If you feel tempted and want to pig out during the holidays, then the transformation in your mind towards eating healthy has not happened yet. That's okay because you WILL get there the longer you stay on low-carb. But giving in because you think you are too weak to resist is UNACCEPTABLE because you will only make yourself MORE depressed when you put on 10, 15, or 20 pounds during the holidays. Don't allow that guilty feeling to hit you and simply dedicate yourself to your low-carb life.
Because this can be difficult for some people to handle, Kent offers you some practical strategies for dealing with the inevitable confrontations you will have with those high-carb foods and the well-meaning folks trying to peddle it to you:
- Be the cook or bring your own low-carb food to holiday functions
- Do more socializing with others instead of mindlessly eating
- Keep yourself busy with activities during the family functions
SUPER TIPS, Kent! Holidays can be stressful, but that doesn't mean your low-carb plan should suffer. Who knows, you may just impress some of your friends and family who may not even know you've lost weight. In fact, don't be surprised if they ask you what you've been doing to shed the pounds so effectively. That's when you can look back at them with a twinkle in your eyes and proudly declare, "I've been livin' la vida low-carb, baby!" You tell 'em! :D
Labels: 30-in-30, challenge, cheat, Christmas, diet, food, holidays, Kent Altena, low-carb, temptation, Thanksgiving, video, weight loss
Friday, October 27, 2006
Sincere Adoration Pours In For 'The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show' Podcast
The debut week of my brand new podcast called "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore" has been a thrilling experience for me as so many of my "Livin' La Vida Low-Carb" blog readers have shared their comments about the show as well as many new listeners at iTunes and elsewhere who have never been exposed to a positive presentation of the low-carb life. I can't wait for many more new and engaging episodes to come along in the coming weeks and months and the momentum of my new show continues to build. THANK YOU!!!
Well, I suppose you'd like to know who won the FREE 12-PACK OF CHOCOPERFECTION BARS, huh? The chocolate giveaway contest winner for correctly identifying the number of times I said "rump" in Episode 1 as one is...(drumroll please!)
KAY W. from VIRGINIA!!!
CONGRATULATIONS, Kay! WOO HOO!!! You will be receiving one dozen of the best-tasting low-carb dark chocolate bars on the planet in the mail real soon from our friends at Low-Carb Specialities. THANKS so much for listening and sharing your feedback with me about the show.
In fact, check out what she had to say about "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show":
I really liked hearing your voice, especially your “Southern” drawl. Seriously, you did a great intro. I am looking forward to in-depth discussions of the low-carb lifestyle. This one was basic and that’s good too. Maybe you can do a question and answer thing. Thanks for carrying the torch for the low-carb lifestyle.
Well, hooooowdy! LOL! I didn't know my accent was THAT bad. Hee hee! But that's okay because it is who I am. As for her other comments, I want to provide good basic information as well as some complex issues like the ones that will be featured in Episode 2 coming on October 30, 2006! It's gonna be a REALLY good one, so don't miss it! :D
Here is just a small sampling of some more of the many comments I received about the new podcast show:
I just listened to your first podcast, and thought it was excellent! You did a great job, and I look forward to many, many more of your podcasts.
*****************
What did I like about the show? That you are continuing to share with others about the low-carb lifestyle. I believe it is so important for all of us to keep spreading the word that this really is a healthy lifestyle and for everyone to stop believing the lies we have been told our entire lives. Thanks for keeping the good word on low-carb living going!
*****************
I enjoyed your show very much. Since I’ve been living the low-carb way of life for over five years, the information you provided was pretty basic to me. But I believe you’ll be inspiring to others. Finding a plan, reading the book and sticking to it is a great starting point for people. I also liked that you told the truth, that losing weight is never easy, but it gets easier with time. Good luck with your show!
*****************
I enjoyed the podcast (although as a fan of your blog, there wasn't anything new in what you said--just good advice). Good luck as you move into a new way of getting the word out.
*****************
Love your podcast--it's fun to hear a voice with the writing I enjoy so much! All the best--thanks for all you do!
*****************
Loved the podcast. How often will you have new episodes and will it always be a free podcast? (heck do they even charge for them?) Thanks for your blog too...I check it daily.
*****************
I loved the podcast. Your enthusiasm about the low-carb lifestyle is bound to appeal to those people who have tried many diet plans and need to find some way to lose weight. I love the way you share your own experiences as a way to encourage people to get off their "rump" and give it a try. The only thing that I can think of to change is the sound quality. I listen via my iPod and the sound didn't come through as clear as other podcasts that I listen to. By the way, I downloaded the podcast from iTunes. It certainly won't keep me from listening, but I just thought I'd mention it since you are asking for feedback. Keep up the good work, Jimmy. I love your blog and am excited to know that now I can also listen to you now, too.
*****************
I liked the honesty that you bring across and sincerity. I also liked that you had to find your own way of dieting...read, and read again. I did the same thing, there are such a wealth of knowledge out there on what is good for the body, and listening to your body. I like that you didn't just say, well, I did the Atkins diet or the South Beach. What you are teaching is, look around, there are dozens of books all trying to steer us in this better way of life. You are also here to help! That's great. I'll keep listening if you'll keep preachin'!
*****************
I thought it was very good. And I hope to get more ideas in order to get me back on the track of the low-carb life I have been leading for the last 8 years.
*****************
Great podcast! I love your enthusiasm! I am very encouraged from listening to you and I love your book and blog too. THANKS and keep up the great work!
*****************
WOW, fantastic feedback everyone! I'm happy to hear that you like the show and we are working on ways to make it better.
The sound quality issue is one that I've been trying to fix for most of the week and I think you'll hear a "clear" difference in Episode 2 on Monday. In fact, it'll be like night and day with the clarity, I promise you. THANKS for the constructive criticism, it's gonna make the show better already!
As for the information provided being "basic" or "old news," I can certainly understand the concerns of people who have been on low-carb for a while or who read my blog every single day. But everyone who listens to this podcast show will be at different levels from long-time low-carbers to people still losing weight to beginners to those simply curious about what this way of eating is all about. I'm trying to reach them all and can't do it in a single episode or with one particular style. I'll mix it up, but will always focus on a positive presentation of information about low-carb.
Just keep listening and you might be surprised to hear something that you thought you "knew" about, but perhaps you will look at it in a different way now. What you get out of my podcast show is up to you. Keep an open mind and look for something new to learn and pass on to others about livin' la vida low-carb. Encouragement, education and a little entertainment is what has made my blog what it is and will most certainly define what my podcast is as well.
As an added incentive to listen to upcoming episodes of "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show," I have lined up several freebie opportunities from your favorite low-carb companies over the next few weeks to entice you to listen. Be looking for your next chance to win again coming up next week!
THANKS again for your support for "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore" podcast. Tell all your friends, family, and yes, your enemies, about the next episode coming on Monday!
Well, I suppose you'd like to know who won the FREE 12-PACK OF CHOCOPERFECTION BARS, huh? The chocolate giveaway contest winner for correctly identifying the number of times I said "rump" in Episode 1 as one is...(drumroll please!)
KAY W. from VIRGINIA!!!
CONGRATULATIONS, Kay! WOO HOO!!! You will be receiving one dozen of the best-tasting low-carb dark chocolate bars on the planet in the mail real soon from our friends at Low-Carb Specialities. THANKS so much for listening and sharing your feedback with me about the show.
In fact, check out what she had to say about "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show":
I really liked hearing your voice, especially your “Southern” drawl. Seriously, you did a great intro. I am looking forward to in-depth discussions of the low-carb lifestyle. This one was basic and that’s good too. Maybe you can do a question and answer thing. Thanks for carrying the torch for the low-carb lifestyle.
Well, hooooowdy! LOL! I didn't know my accent was THAT bad. Hee hee! But that's okay because it is who I am. As for her other comments, I want to provide good basic information as well as some complex issues like the ones that will be featured in Episode 2 coming on October 30, 2006! It's gonna be a REALLY good one, so don't miss it! :D
Here is just a small sampling of some more of the many comments I received about the new podcast show:
I just listened to your first podcast, and thought it was excellent! You did a great job, and I look forward to many, many more of your podcasts.
*****************
What did I like about the show? That you are continuing to share with others about the low-carb lifestyle. I believe it is so important for all of us to keep spreading the word that this really is a healthy lifestyle and for everyone to stop believing the lies we have been told our entire lives. Thanks for keeping the good word on low-carb living going!
*****************
I enjoyed your show very much. Since I’ve been living the low-carb way of life for over five years, the information you provided was pretty basic to me. But I believe you’ll be inspiring to others. Finding a plan, reading the book and sticking to it is a great starting point for people. I also liked that you told the truth, that losing weight is never easy, but it gets easier with time. Good luck with your show!
*****************
I enjoyed the podcast (although as a fan of your blog, there wasn't anything new in what you said--just good advice). Good luck as you move into a new way of getting the word out.
*****************
Love your podcast--it's fun to hear a voice with the writing I enjoy so much! All the best--thanks for all you do!
*****************
Loved the podcast. How often will you have new episodes and will it always be a free podcast? (heck do they even charge for them?) Thanks for your blog too...I check it daily.
*****************
I loved the podcast. Your enthusiasm about the low-carb lifestyle is bound to appeal to those people who have tried many diet plans and need to find some way to lose weight. I love the way you share your own experiences as a way to encourage people to get off their "rump" and give it a try. The only thing that I can think of to change is the sound quality. I listen via my iPod and the sound didn't come through as clear as other podcasts that I listen to. By the way, I downloaded the podcast from iTunes. It certainly won't keep me from listening, but I just thought I'd mention it since you are asking for feedback. Keep up the good work, Jimmy. I love your blog and am excited to know that now I can also listen to you now, too.
*****************
I liked the honesty that you bring across and sincerity. I also liked that you had to find your own way of dieting...read, and read again. I did the same thing, there are such a wealth of knowledge out there on what is good for the body, and listening to your body. I like that you didn't just say, well, I did the Atkins diet or the South Beach. What you are teaching is, look around, there are dozens of books all trying to steer us in this better way of life. You are also here to help! That's great. I'll keep listening if you'll keep preachin'!
*****************
I thought it was very good. And I hope to get more ideas in order to get me back on the track of the low-carb life I have been leading for the last 8 years.
*****************
Great podcast! I love your enthusiasm! I am very encouraged from listening to you and I love your book and blog too. THANKS and keep up the great work!
*****************
WOW, fantastic feedback everyone! I'm happy to hear that you like the show and we are working on ways to make it better.
The sound quality issue is one that I've been trying to fix for most of the week and I think you'll hear a "clear" difference in Episode 2 on Monday. In fact, it'll be like night and day with the clarity, I promise you. THANKS for the constructive criticism, it's gonna make the show better already!
As for the information provided being "basic" or "old news," I can certainly understand the concerns of people who have been on low-carb for a while or who read my blog every single day. But everyone who listens to this podcast show will be at different levels from long-time low-carbers to people still losing weight to beginners to those simply curious about what this way of eating is all about. I'm trying to reach them all and can't do it in a single episode or with one particular style. I'll mix it up, but will always focus on a positive presentation of information about low-carb.
Just keep listening and you might be surprised to hear something that you thought you "knew" about, but perhaps you will look at it in a different way now. What you get out of my podcast show is up to you. Keep an open mind and look for something new to learn and pass on to others about livin' la vida low-carb. Encouragement, education and a little entertainment is what has made my blog what it is and will most certainly define what my podcast is as well.
As an added incentive to listen to upcoming episodes of "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show," I have lined up several freebie opportunities from your favorite low-carb companies over the next few weeks to entice you to listen. Be looking for your next chance to win again coming up next week!
THANKS again for your support for "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore" podcast. Tell all your friends, family, and yes, your enemies, about the next episode coming on Monday!
Labels: giveaway, inspiration, Jimmy Moore, livin' la vida low-carb, motivation, show, The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Casting A Low-Carb Spell On Halloween Candy
Double double, your diet's in trouble
Halloween candy can turn low-carb to rubble!
Boo! Hey, it's me, "Livin' La Vida Low-Carb" Man Jimmy Moore here and it's time for Halloween yet again in less than a week. This is the one time of the year when you get to see witches, ghosts, and goblins right next to Cinderella, angels, and Dora the Explorer alongside Spiderman, SpongeBob, and that freaky Scream character. Yikes!
But as scary as some of those Halloween costumes can be these days, there is an even scarier reason why people who are livin' la vida low-carb should be afraid, very afraid of the Halloween season -- C-A-N-D-Y!
Let me tell you, I know how hard it is to resist the urge to munch away at the overabundance of candy that is available to you this time of year. If you have been paying close attention over the past few weeks, then you've probably seen candy available in places that you never even thought about -- in your office at work, next to the bank teller, and even in your doctor's office. Calgon, take me away!
The prevalence and outright acceptance of sugar in our society is very disheartening to me. With the number of people who are either overweight or obese numbering two out of every three, when are we finally going to realize the intricate and damaging role this sweet little substance is doing to our bodies? Not only is it making us fatter and fatter, but it is also leading to a significant decline in the health of so many. Eeeek! Now THAT is scary!
The results of a recent survey on Halloween treats conducted by a survey company I participate in called NFO MySurvey.com (it's FREE to join and you get to participate in LOTS of fun surveys about products and services that haven't hit the market yet--CLICK HERE to learn more!) found that the "favorites" among adults when they were children and today still HEAVILY lean towards the sugary candies.
Those statistics are enough to make you sick, aren't they? Well, look at what brought up the rear in terms of favorite Halloween treats when the survey participants were kids compared to now that they are adults.
Interestingly, only 3% of the survey participants said NONE of these choices were appealing to them as kids and an even more shocking 4% said none of them would be appealing to them today. JUST FOUR PERCENT?!?!?! More than that preferred a small toy for a "treat" at Halloween?! What's wrong with our culture? ARGH! Is it any wonder Halloween makes the obesity problem worse?
Now before you go calling me a party pooper and rationalizing that eating Halloween candy is okay because you say it's all a part of the harmless fun of this season that everybody participates in, I can honestly tell you without any trepidation in my voice whatsoever that it is indeed possible to live your life without eating sugar. Gasp! Yep, there I said it. The cat's out of the bag now (was that a black cat?).
People who are new to livin' la vida low-carb may be shocked to learn that they should no longer be eating sugar as part of their healthy lifestyle change to low-carb living. However, if you are serious about wanting to lose weight and keep it off forever on low-carb, then you will need to learn this invaluable lesson for yourself. The benefits you will reap far outweigh the innate need and desire you think you have for sugar.
In fact, an incredible study was conducted in August 2005 by University of California Irvine psychologist Elizabeth Loftus who found that creating false memories in your mind about certain kinds of foods can actually cause your desire for those foods to wane.
As I discuss in the chapter of my Livin' La Vida Low-Carb book entitled "Sugar Is Rat Poison," one of the things that I consciously did when I first went on my low-carb plan was to thoroughly convince myself that eating sugar was tantamount to eating rat poison. Obviously I knew it wasn't REALLY rat poison, but just the thought of that has kept me safely away from putting ANYTHING with sugar up to my lips for nearly three years.
Let me tell you, though, temptation will have a way of rearing its ugly head at just the right time to test how strong your resistance will be. You'll have an office Halloween party with all kinds of desserts staring you smack dab in the face while they cry out to you, "Eat me, eat me."
Before you are faced with this scenario, I want your response to this situation to be planned ahead of time. What you need to do is cast a low-carb spell on Halloween candy by saying to it, "You are rat poison, rat poison! Get thee behind me!" Okay, maybe that's a little melodramatic! But you get the point. It IS possible to resist eating sugar if you can convince yourself of this surprisingly simple concept.
I know in my experience with not eating sugar any longer, I can actually put Halloween candy right in front of my face today to see how tempted I would be to eat it. While it can certainly look and smell good to me, I have absolutely NO desire to eat it at all. I don't know why or how this has happened, I just know it is not a point of weakness for me any longer.
Don't get me wrong, though. I still love my sweets, but now I get them without the sugar and instead use ones that have sugar substitutes in them. Read the labels of sugar-free and low-carb candies very carefully, though, and make sure you find the ones that are not too loaded with the stomach-upsetting sugar alcohols such as lactitol and the overused diarreah-causing maltitol (oh, and I noticed the candy companies are trying to hide the name "maltitol" in their ingredients now by calling it "isomalt" instead. Beware because this is the EXACT SAME THING! EEEK!). Better options for you are ones which are sweetened primarily with Splenda, erythritol, oligofructose, and acesulfame potassium (ACE-K).
See, getting through Halloween isn't as hard as you think it is if you remember why you started livin' la vida low-carb in the first place. No more giving in to things like candy corn, miniature candy bars, or hard candies that are just loaded with sugar just because it's Halloween. You need all of that like you need a hole in your head!
So be smart, stay alert, and start practicing on that low-carb spell you are going to put on Halloween candy next Tuesday. Say it with me now -- "sugar is rat poison, sugar is rat poison, (SAY IT!) sugar is rat poison!"
Keep on livin' la vida low-carb and you'll come out of Halloween looking and feeling good! There's nothing scary about that!
Labels: candy, Halloween, low-carb, obesity, sugar
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Listen To My Podcast For Your Chance To Win A 12-Pack Of ChocoPerfection Bars
"The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore" officially debuted this week as the brand new show on the GNMHealth imprint, a subsidiary of the podcast production company Grasshopper New Media. I am thrilled about this new and exciting podcast about the low-carb lifestyle and hope you will make it a regular part of your week.
Wouldn't you like a little incentive to listen to "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show?" Sure you would! That's why our friends at Low-Carb Specialities, makers of those oh so yummy sugar-free, low-carb ChocoPerfection bars, have agreed to give you the chance to win a FREE 12-pack of either their milk or dark chocolate bars (a $40 value!). Hey, can I win?! :D
Here's how YOU can win the FREE (did he say FREE?!) chocolate bars:
1. LISTEN to Episode 1 of "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show."
2. Carefully identify how many times I say the word "rump."
3. Send me an e-mail with your answer.
4. Include your name and mailing address (no P.O. Boxes please).
5. Share what you liked and disliked about the show. Be honest!
Isn't that easy? I'm gonna give you until Friday, October 27, 2006 at 12:00pm ET to send me your e-mail if you want to win those ChocoPerfection bars (and who DOESN'T?!). Be sure to also indicate which flavor of ChocoPerfection bar (milk or dark) that you want to win if your entry is selected as the WINNER!
Are you excited yet about listening to the premier episode of "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show?" Then let me hear from you, okay?
I really want to make this show the VERY best podcast it can possibly be, so your honest feedback about what we are doing is GREATLY appreciated.
As a special bonus for those of you reading this entry right now, I will give you a BONUS entry in the ChocoPerfection giveaway if you either post a comment about Episode 1 or leave a comment using the MobaTalk Comment System to the right of the official web site. Don't forget to send me your entry in an e-mail and then sign your name on the comment so you can get credit for your BONUS entry!
I will announce the winner of the chocolate bars on Friday at the podcast web site. THANKS again for listening and be looking for MORE great giveaways in the coming weeks for future episodes of "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore." SEE YA!
Wouldn't you like a little incentive to listen to "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show?" Sure you would! That's why our friends at Low-Carb Specialities, makers of those oh so yummy sugar-free, low-carb ChocoPerfection bars, have agreed to give you the chance to win a FREE 12-pack of either their milk or dark chocolate bars (a $40 value!). Hey, can I win?! :D
Here's how YOU can win the FREE (did he say FREE?!) chocolate bars:
1. LISTEN to Episode 1 of "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show."
2. Carefully identify how many times I say the word "rump."
3. Send me an e-mail with your answer.
4. Include your name and mailing address (no P.O. Boxes please).
5. Share what you liked and disliked about the show. Be honest!
Isn't that easy? I'm gonna give you until Friday, October 27, 2006 at 12:00pm ET to send me your e-mail if you want to win those ChocoPerfection bars (and who DOESN'T?!). Be sure to also indicate which flavor of ChocoPerfection bar (milk or dark) that you want to win if your entry is selected as the WINNER!
Are you excited yet about listening to the premier episode of "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show?" Then let me hear from you, okay?
I really want to make this show the VERY best podcast it can possibly be, so your honest feedback about what we are doing is GREATLY appreciated.
As a special bonus for those of you reading this entry right now, I will give you a BONUS entry in the ChocoPerfection giveaway if you either post a comment about Episode 1 or leave a comment using the MobaTalk Comment System to the right of the official web site. Don't forget to send me your entry in an e-mail and then sign your name on the comment so you can get credit for your BONUS entry!
I will announce the winner of the chocolate bars on Friday at the podcast web site. THANKS again for listening and be looking for MORE great giveaways in the coming weeks for future episodes of "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore." SEE YA!
Labels: ChocoPerfection, contest, giveaway, GNMHealth, Grasshopper New Media, Jimmy Moore, show, The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
'30-In-30' Challenge Week 12 Update
Today marks THREE MONTHS in The "30-In-30" Low-Carb Weight Loss Challenge and I am so enthusiastically charged up about the changes that so many people are making through the low-carb dietary changes and increased physical activity they are implementing into their lives. People are STILL joining even now because they want to be a part of something that gets them excited and pumped up about losing weight and getting healthy.
Think about it for a moment. Back in August (or whenever you joined us!) when you first began this adventurous challenge, did you ever think you could REALLY do it? Come on, be honest. For most of us who have gone up and down and up and...well, you get the picture...with our weight, it's hard NOT to be at least a little bit skeptical about whether this will work or not. In fact, some of you may STILL have your doubts about whether this is working even though you have lost weight or inches! What's that all about?!
I've been listening to some fantastic audiobooks from Dr. Jonny Bowden lately that have actually helped me better understand the psychology behind why so many of us struggle with weight loss as well as hammering down the basics of what a sound diet approach should be. There's nothing particularly magical or mystical about what he suggests, but I was literally blown away by how he made all of these concepts surrounding changes in your diet and life so concrete and really doable. That's what makes listening to them so fantastic!
If you'd like to know more about the Bowden trilogy, read my reviews:
1. "9 Essential Steps To Weight Loss"
2. "23 Ways To Improve Your Life"
3. "Change Your Body, Change Your Life"
The wisdom that this man gives you is invaluable regardless of what level you are at in your weight loss experience. I've been doing this way of eating for nearly three years now and Jonny taught me so much that I wish I had learned before I first started. But I'm glad he so willingly shared his wisdom and experience to help people begin to understand this weight loss thing after all. It's not as complicated as we make it out to be. In fact, he's got me thinking about some of the "little" things that I never even noticed before.
For example, he tells the story about duckings in one of the CD sets how they are conditioned to making certain decisions about their life early on and that conditioning sticks with them for the rest of their lives. This is especially true of our dietary habits which we think we cannot change. Jonny explains that you should find NEW habits to replace those old ones and make the new ones pleasurable in your mind while making those old habits feel like pain. Actually, that's precisely what I did with sugar!
I noticed this conditioning in action today when I was making my eggs for breakfast and had to move the food dish I serve the wet stuff in for my cats out of the way to get to a bowl. As soon as I set that food dish down on the counter, all four of my cats came running into the room towards me whining and rubbing up against me as if I was feeding them. They have become accustomed to equating the sound of the food dish making a noise on the counter with eating the wet stuff even if they have just finished eating some dry food. It's amazing to watch!
So, what are our triggers like that, hmmm? Do you have certain regular events that happen in your life (like the food dish hitting the counter) that cause you to want to EAT EAT EAT! It could be a song on the radio, a smell in the air, or something as simple as "it's time to eat." Recognize your own pre-conditioned triggers and learn how to respond to them. It could mean the difference between becoming a weight loss success or wallowing in your self-pity that this stupid low-carb diet doesn't work. Pay close attention this week and see if you don't begin to recognize these signs even more.
If you like this concept and want more of them, then I HIGHLY recommend you check out Dr. Jonny Bowden's audiobook series. Amazing ideas that could very well put you over the top in your weight loss and lifechanging journey! Best of all is he GUARANTEES you will be successful, so give it a try. I'm glad I did and I know you will, too.
Okay, so how did my week go following my 10 1/2-pound weight GAIN in Week 11 no thanks to my tumultuous week prior to that? Well, I'm happy to report that things are looking a little bit up again with so many people stepping up to support me during this time. THANKS so much for all the encouraging e-mails and genuine concerns. I am one lucky guy to have people like you that care so much.
The stress that can inevitably build up during times like this has subsided somewhat and it is reflected in my weight coming back down again this week. No, I didn't have any "carb buildup" as one person put it and no, the low-carb products that I ate during the week I gained were NOT the reason for my increase because I have been eating those things just as much in previous weeks when I have LOST weight. I have no doubt in my mind that it was the increased cortisol in my body from the added stress that led to my sudden jump in weight. We're working on easing that stress and the result is in my weight loss.
With that said, last week was the start of me getting back on track again. I loosened up on my rigorous attention to my diet and just decided to eat low-carb foods exactly when I wanted to eat (primarily when hunger struck!). The results were fabulous!
YEAH, FIVE POUNDS LOST, so I got back nearly half of the weight I had gained in the previous week. I'd REALLY like to lose the other 5 1/2 pounds this week to get back to my previous low weight of 215. I know it will happen and I've really got plenty of time to do it, too! This experience with the weight gain has NOT discouraged me one bit because I know it is only temporary. My clothes still fit me the same and I feel wonderful despite my circumstances. That's the GREAT part.
It seems I'm not the only triple-digit low-carb weight loss success story who decided it was time to lose a little more weight. My low-carb blogging friend Kent Altena has also decided to try to lose some more weight! CONGRATULATIONS, Kent, for recognizing the weight creep that can happen for those of us who have been doing this a while. Although Kent has lost 200 pounds on the Atkins diet, he noticed a little weight gain that has him back at it again. There's nothing wrong with getting back to it again and it is a sign this is a long-term solution to the problem.
Guess what, Kent?! I weigh less than you right now, buddy! HA! We are about the same height, so we really should challenge each other to continue on with our weight loss success. He's dealing with the loose skin issue, too, although I don't think losing more weight is gonna help much. When I get down to 199, I will illustrate this point at my blog. I've got some work to do to get there and I WILL make it! There's no doubt about it.
What about your week? How'd ya do? Let us know and be open and honest about how you feel. It will REALLY help everyone understand what you are going through and perhaps one of us has experienced what you are experiencing and can do what we can to get you through it. Don't go it alone, that's why you joined "30-In-30," right? :)
Think about it for a moment. Back in August (or whenever you joined us!) when you first began this adventurous challenge, did you ever think you could REALLY do it? Come on, be honest. For most of us who have gone up and down and up and...well, you get the picture...with our weight, it's hard NOT to be at least a little bit skeptical about whether this will work or not. In fact, some of you may STILL have your doubts about whether this is working even though you have lost weight or inches! What's that all about?!
I've been listening to some fantastic audiobooks from Dr. Jonny Bowden lately that have actually helped me better understand the psychology behind why so many of us struggle with weight loss as well as hammering down the basics of what a sound diet approach should be. There's nothing particularly magical or mystical about what he suggests, but I was literally blown away by how he made all of these concepts surrounding changes in your diet and life so concrete and really doable. That's what makes listening to them so fantastic!
If you'd like to know more about the Bowden trilogy, read my reviews:
1. "9 Essential Steps To Weight Loss"
2. "23 Ways To Improve Your Life"
3. "Change Your Body, Change Your Life"
The wisdom that this man gives you is invaluable regardless of what level you are at in your weight loss experience. I've been doing this way of eating for nearly three years now and Jonny taught me so much that I wish I had learned before I first started. But I'm glad he so willingly shared his wisdom and experience to help people begin to understand this weight loss thing after all. It's not as complicated as we make it out to be. In fact, he's got me thinking about some of the "little" things that I never even noticed before.
For example, he tells the story about duckings in one of the CD sets how they are conditioned to making certain decisions about their life early on and that conditioning sticks with them for the rest of their lives. This is especially true of our dietary habits which we think we cannot change. Jonny explains that you should find NEW habits to replace those old ones and make the new ones pleasurable in your mind while making those old habits feel like pain. Actually, that's precisely what I did with sugar!
I noticed this conditioning in action today when I was making my eggs for breakfast and had to move the food dish I serve the wet stuff in for my cats out of the way to get to a bowl. As soon as I set that food dish down on the counter, all four of my cats came running into the room towards me whining and rubbing up against me as if I was feeding them. They have become accustomed to equating the sound of the food dish making a noise on the counter with eating the wet stuff even if they have just finished eating some dry food. It's amazing to watch!
So, what are our triggers like that, hmmm? Do you have certain regular events that happen in your life (like the food dish hitting the counter) that cause you to want to EAT EAT EAT! It could be a song on the radio, a smell in the air, or something as simple as "it's time to eat." Recognize your own pre-conditioned triggers and learn how to respond to them. It could mean the difference between becoming a weight loss success or wallowing in your self-pity that this stupid low-carb diet doesn't work. Pay close attention this week and see if you don't begin to recognize these signs even more.
If you like this concept and want more of them, then I HIGHLY recommend you check out Dr. Jonny Bowden's audiobook series. Amazing ideas that could very well put you over the top in your weight loss and lifechanging journey! Best of all is he GUARANTEES you will be successful, so give it a try. I'm glad I did and I know you will, too.
Okay, so how did my week go following my 10 1/2-pound weight GAIN in Week 11 no thanks to my tumultuous week prior to that? Well, I'm happy to report that things are looking a little bit up again with so many people stepping up to support me during this time. THANKS so much for all the encouraging e-mails and genuine concerns. I am one lucky guy to have people like you that care so much.
The stress that can inevitably build up during times like this has subsided somewhat and it is reflected in my weight coming back down again this week. No, I didn't have any "carb buildup" as one person put it and no, the low-carb products that I ate during the week I gained were NOT the reason for my increase because I have been eating those things just as much in previous weeks when I have LOST weight. I have no doubt in my mind that it was the increased cortisol in my body from the added stress that led to my sudden jump in weight. We're working on easing that stress and the result is in my weight loss.
With that said, last week was the start of me getting back on track again. I loosened up on my rigorous attention to my diet and just decided to eat low-carb foods exactly when I wanted to eat (primarily when hunger struck!). The results were fabulous!
YEAH, FIVE POUNDS LOST, so I got back nearly half of the weight I had gained in the previous week. I'd REALLY like to lose the other 5 1/2 pounds this week to get back to my previous low weight of 215. I know it will happen and I've really got plenty of time to do it, too! This experience with the weight gain has NOT discouraged me one bit because I know it is only temporary. My clothes still fit me the same and I feel wonderful despite my circumstances. That's the GREAT part.
It seems I'm not the only triple-digit low-carb weight loss success story who decided it was time to lose a little more weight. My low-carb blogging friend Kent Altena has also decided to try to lose some more weight! CONGRATULATIONS, Kent, for recognizing the weight creep that can happen for those of us who have been doing this a while. Although Kent has lost 200 pounds on the Atkins diet, he noticed a little weight gain that has him back at it again. There's nothing wrong with getting back to it again and it is a sign this is a long-term solution to the problem.
Guess what, Kent?! I weigh less than you right now, buddy! HA! We are about the same height, so we really should challenge each other to continue on with our weight loss success. He's dealing with the loose skin issue, too, although I don't think losing more weight is gonna help much. When I get down to 199, I will illustrate this point at my blog. I've got some work to do to get there and I WILL make it! There's no doubt about it.
What about your week? How'd ya do? Let us know and be open and honest about how you feel. It will REALLY help everyone understand what you are going through and perhaps one of us has experienced what you are experiencing and can do what we can to get you through it. Don't go it alone, that's why you joined "30-In-30," right? :)
Labels: 30-in-30, challenge, changes, Jonny Bowden, Kent Altena, low-carb, triggers, weight gain, weight loss
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Jimmy Moore Starts Engaging And Encouraging New Low-Carb Podcast Show
The success of my blog has helped me launch a brand new podcast show
A few days ago, I mentioned in this blog post that an exciting new podcast show was in the works that would feature the low-carb lifestyle from my personal perspective. Well, that dream of having my own show has now become a reality with the upcoming debut on Monday of "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore."
Everything you have enjoyed about my blog and book will now be encompassed in this engaging new commentary show that will feature 10-15 minute segments on various aspects of the low-carb lifestyle, including the latest research, tips and advice on low-carb living, and setting those in the media and health "experts" straight about what this amazing way of eating is REALLY all about. Click here to read more about the show as well as this welcoming message from me about what the show will be about.
"The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore" is being brought to you by Grasshopper New Media and their up-and-coming GNMHealth brand, producers of the flagship health-related show called The Health Hacks Podcast (HHX) which I have been privileged to be a part of for the past few months since its inception.
Now that I have been given the green light to go out on my own and take on the podcasting world with "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show," I will be leaving HHX except for a few cameo appearances from time to time. I encourage you to keep listening to The Health Hacks Podcast on Wednesdays to continue being educated and encouraged by Reinhard Engels, Eve the OT, and the rest of the posse sharing their thoughts and opinions about healthy living. It's been fun working with them!
For a sneak peek at what this new show will be like, check out this introduction to my new show as well as a very primitive prototype of the show that my producer Kevin Kennedy-Spaien pulled from Episode 5 of the Health Hacks Podcast to send to iTunes for approval of the show (by the way, they LIKED it immensely and have quickly added it to their list of "Health" shows for download--WOO HOO!).
The show itself will be fast-paced and informational, but also entertaining and fun! Think of it as my blog put into audio format with all the bells and whistles that come with doing that. I'm excited about the chance to offer a new format to share the message of livin' la vida low-carb to the world. In the end, helping people lose weight and get healthy is my top priority and this show will help me do that even more.
What do I need from the readers of my blog who already support what I am doing? LISTEN TO THE SHOW! That's easy enough, isn't it?! If you listen to the show which will NEVER be more than 15 minutes long, then you will prove to the powes that be that a show like this deserves to be heard.
Perhaps the success of my show could lead to other similar kinds of shows being launched as well. The potential of "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore" is endless and I can't wait for you to hear the inaugural episode this Monday, October 23, 2006 and every Monday thereafter. It will be available for you to listen to it at the official web site for the show, www.thelivinlowcarbshow.com.
Tell others you know who are interested in low-carb or may be intrigued by a show like this to listen. In fact, you can either add it to your iTunes account or subscribe to the RSS feed (find your preferred method for subscribing to the feed by clicking here). At the very least, I hope you and those in your sphere of influence will listen and share your honest feedback with me about what you think of the show. A lot of time and energy will be spent making this the BEST show it can possibly be, so your constructive criticism will only make it better as experience improves it over time.
Does all of this get you fired up and ready to do more than just listen to the show? If so, then I would like to invite you to show your support for my new show by becoming an official sponsor. Your financial support will not only help the show offset some of the expenses of producing a show like this, but it will also help your company reach a target audience of people who are interested in weight loss, health, diet, and, of course, low-carb. Also, if you have a question or comment about the show, you can always send your feedback to us by using our convenient contact page.
Are you ready for "The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore?" Ready or not, here it comes!
Labels: diet, encouragement, health, Jimmy Moore, lifestyle change, livin' la vida low-carb, podcast, show, The Livin' La Vida Low-Carb Show, weight loss
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Your Support Through Troubled Times Has Meant The World To Me
I suppose I owe you an update on the bad news I shared last week from what's been happening in my life. It's funny how stinging that proverbial 2X4 on the backside of the head feels a week after getting walloped! :)
First, my brother Kevin. He did end up going three hours away from home to a university medical center for them to check out his clogged arteries about what to do regarding his dismal heart condition. My mom called me on Tuesday and said they decided NOT to do emergency open heart surgery or even an angioplasty for him.
Instead, they are going to try two things that the doctors back in his hometown can administer--a harness to wrap around his thigh that is supposed to help pump the blood through the heart when the flow gets weak and an experimental new oral medication designed to break up blockages in the arteries. I've never heard of either one of these treatment and they seem to be some of the latest advances in medical technology they are using on him. Pray that they work to heal him.
The good news about the one completely clogged artery (if there is good news to share with that) is that it leads to the "dead" part of Kevin's heart that was permanently damaged during his heart attacks in 1999. In other words, it wouldn't do any good for him even if it was completely cleared. Kevin is not out of the woods with his health yet and I only ask you to continue praying that he would FINALLY wake up and get serious about his health before it REALLY is too late.
I so desperately want him to DO IT this time and may try to get personally involved somehow in making that happen although I live over 1,000 miles away. He can't keep living the way he has been and expect to see his weight and health improve. Pray for me to have the wisdom and direction about how to approach Kevin to help him through this and for him to have the "want to" this time to save his life.
Second, my bathroom floor and roof. Well, we have a new floor installed now thanks to the $1750 we plopped down to have that fixed which basically eliminated our savings we had for our roof to be repaired. That's just a part of life we all have to deal with, but it was just the timing of it that makes it that much more difficult to bear. The workers are scheduled to come back tomorrow to finish up putting in the pipes and installing the vanity, so that issue is pretty much resolved at this point. We are going to start saving for the roof repairs again once I can begin earning money again.
Speaking of that, finally, there's my job situation. It was one week ago today that I was told I no longer had a job with the company I had invested the last 4+ years of my life to. As painful as that experience was and the fact that I was not allowed any compensation for my nearly two weeks of vacation time that had built up or even a severance package, I'm doing okay with it. Nobody ever said life was easy and this past week or so has certainly validated that statement for me.
Some good news is that the temp agency I am working with to find employment has a prospect for me in the same field of work I was doing previously. It is for less pay and obviously NO benefits such as health insurance, retirement, or a gym membership. But is IS a job and I'll take it in a split second if and when an offer is made. My primary goal right now is to start bringing in money again to support my family. That is a priority that I will make happen in short order.
At the same time, I will be looking for full-time employment in a career that would allow me to use my writing talents, marketing experience, and even weight loss success to lay the groundwork for what I will be doing in the years to come. I know we all have our dream jobs and most of those are unfulfilled for whatever reason. But if my nearly 200-pound weight loss taught me anything, it most certainly showed me that nothing is impossible for those who hope and expect success to happen. That doesn't mean the perfect job will fall in my lap, nor should it. However, I believe it CAN happen and it very likely will.
One thing I have been encouraged by over this past week has been the outpouring of love and support from so many of my readers. There have been literally hundreds of e-mails from people all basically stating "how's it going and how can I help you?" You all are among the kindest people on the planet for showing this goofy opinionated low-carber the kindness and friendship that you have. I am truly humbled by your faithfulness to me and the work I am doing here and feel so unworthy of the adoration that you have bestowed on me. How can I say THANK YOU enough?
A few of you asked me about making a contribution to a PayPal account to help me out during this time. I do not have a PayPal account and have never posted one at my blog. The work I do through "Livin' La Vida Low-Carb" is a labor of love and I do not mind giving back to others for what the low-carb lifestyle has done for me. Do I wish I could get paid to do what I do at my blog? Heck yeah! I'd be the luckiest guy in the world to be able to support my family writing here for a living. But that's not gonna happen anytime soon.
However, one of my readers read my post where I announced that I had gained 10 1/2 pounds during my troubled week. I chalked the weight gain up to the stress of everything I've been going through and the reader was sincerely concerned to the point that she felt compelled to help me out personally.
Here's what she wrote to me:
"I’ve been following your tough week: from your brother’s health, to losing your job, and now gaining 10.5 pounds on top of all that! That motivated me to ask you something I’ve thought about asking you for quite a while, but just kept putting off.
I assume there are costs involved with your blog that you pay for out of pocket. I’d like to make a contribution. Would you be willing to accept it?
In gratitude to you, in appreciation for your hard work, and to help a wonderful couple going through a tough time, I’d really like to help you out with a small contribution. If this is okay with you?"
Let me just say that I would never stand in the way of anyone who has such a generous heart from being blessed by God for showing this kind of earnest compassion on a fellow human being. That is one of the most thoughtful and selfless acts of kindness and respect that I have ever been shown in my entire life and it would be quite prideful on my part to stop her from doing this.
What a surprising reminder that there really are some very good people in this world today who still remember the human touch that is too often left out of most of our interaction with others. God bless this reader for wanting to reach out to me and Christine in our time of need. We cannot begin to express our THANKS for this unexpected gift.
So, as you can see, life is beginning to look up again after the intial blow that came on us last week. But I knew it would. Everything really does happen for a reason and a purpose that we may never know why, but I'm just trusting the Lord will continue to work all things together for good to fulfill his great and mighty purposes. With friends like so many of you out there praying for us and offering to support us financially, I can't help but be reminded of that eternal truth on a daily basis.
THANK YOU again to everyone who has shared in these difficult times with me and helped me believe that better days are on the horizon. You are my angels and I cannot praise you enough for all that you have done for me. Take care and be blessed!
First, my brother Kevin. He did end up going three hours away from home to a university medical center for them to check out his clogged arteries about what to do regarding his dismal heart condition. My mom called me on Tuesday and said they decided NOT to do emergency open heart surgery or even an angioplasty for him.
Instead, they are going to try two things that the doctors back in his hometown can administer--a harness to wrap around his thigh that is supposed to help pump the blood through the heart when the flow gets weak and an experimental new oral medication designed to break up blockages in the arteries. I've never heard of either one of these treatment and they seem to be some of the latest advances in medical technology they are using on him. Pray that they work to heal him.
The good news about the one completely clogged artery (if there is good news to share with that) is that it leads to the "dead" part of Kevin's heart that was permanently damaged during his heart attacks in 1999. In other words, it wouldn't do any good for him even if it was completely cleared. Kevin is not out of the woods with his health yet and I only ask you to continue praying that he would FINALLY wake up and get serious about his health before it REALLY is too late.
I so desperately want him to DO IT this time and may try to get personally involved somehow in making that happen although I live over 1,000 miles away. He can't keep living the way he has been and expect to see his weight and health improve. Pray for me to have the wisdom and direction about how to approach Kevin to help him through this and for him to have the "want to" this time to save his life.
Second, my bathroom floor and roof. Well, we have a new floor installed now thanks to the $1750 we plopped down to have that fixed which basically eliminated our savings we had for our roof to be repaired. That's just a part of life we all have to deal with, but it was just the timing of it that makes it that much more difficult to bear. The workers are scheduled to come back tomorrow to finish up putting in the pipes and installing the vanity, so that issue is pretty much resolved at this point. We are going to start saving for the roof repairs again once I can begin earning money again.
Speaking of that, finally, there's my job situation. It was one week ago today that I was told I no longer had a job with the company I had invested the last 4+ years of my life to. As painful as that experience was and the fact that I was not allowed any compensation for my nearly two weeks of vacation time that had built up or even a severance package, I'm doing okay with it. Nobody ever said life was easy and this past week or so has certainly validated that statement for me.
Some good news is that the temp agency I am working with to find employment has a prospect for me in the same field of work I was doing previously. It is for less pay and obviously NO benefits such as health insurance, retirement, or a gym membership. But is IS a job and I'll take it in a split second if and when an offer is made. My primary goal right now is to start bringing in money again to support my family. That is a priority that I will make happen in short order.
At the same time, I will be looking for full-time employment in a career that would allow me to use my writing talents, marketing experience, and even weight loss success to lay the groundwork for what I will be doing in the years to come. I know we all have our dream jobs and most of those are unfulfilled for whatever reason. But if my nearly 200-pound weight loss taught me anything, it most certainly showed me that nothing is impossible for those who hope and expect success to happen. That doesn't mean the perfect job will fall in my lap, nor should it. However, I believe it CAN happen and it very likely will.
One thing I have been encouraged by over this past week has been the outpouring of love and support from so many of my readers. There have been literally hundreds of e-mails from people all basically stating "how's it going and how can I help you?" You all are among the kindest people on the planet for showing this goofy opinionated low-carber the kindness and friendship that you have. I am truly humbled by your faithfulness to me and the work I am doing here and feel so unworthy of the adoration that you have bestowed on me. How can I say THANK YOU enough?
A few of you asked me about making a contribution to a PayPal account to help me out during this time. I do not have a PayPal account and have never posted one at my blog. The work I do through "Livin' La Vida Low-Carb" is a labor of love and I do not mind giving back to others for what the low-carb lifestyle has done for me. Do I wish I could get paid to do what I do at my blog? Heck yeah! I'd be the luckiest guy in the world to be able to support my family writing here for a living. But that's not gonna happen anytime soon.
However, one of my readers read my post where I announced that I had gained 10 1/2 pounds during my troubled week. I chalked the weight gain up to the stress of everything I've been going through and the reader was sincerely concerned to the point that she felt compelled to help me out personally.
Here's what she wrote to me:
"I’ve been following your tough week: from your brother’s health, to losing your job, and now gaining 10.5 pounds on top of all that! That motivated me to ask you something I’ve thought about asking you for quite a while, but just kept putting off.
I assume there are costs involved with your blog that you pay for out of pocket. I’d like to make a contribution. Would you be willing to accept it?
In gratitude to you, in appreciation for your hard work, and to help a wonderful couple going through a tough time, I’d really like to help you out with a small contribution. If this is okay with you?"
Let me just say that I would never stand in the way of anyone who has such a generous heart from being blessed by God for showing this kind of earnest compassion on a fellow human being. That is one of the most thoughtful and selfless acts of kindness and respect that I have ever been shown in my entire life and it would be quite prideful on my part to stop her from doing this.
What a surprising reminder that there really are some very good people in this world today who still remember the human touch that is too often left out of most of our interaction with others. God bless this reader for wanting to reach out to me and Christine in our time of need. We cannot begin to express our THANKS for this unexpected gift.
So, as you can see, life is beginning to look up again after the intial blow that came on us last week. But I knew it would. Everything really does happen for a reason and a purpose that we may never know why, but I'm just trusting the Lord will continue to work all things together for good to fulfill his great and mighty purposes. With friends like so many of you out there praying for us and offering to support us financially, I can't help but be reminded of that eternal truth on a daily basis.
THANK YOU again to everyone who has shared in these difficult times with me and helped me believe that better days are on the horizon. You are my angels and I cannot praise you enough for all that you have done for me. Take care and be blessed!
Labels: bad news, Kevin, stress
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
'30-In-30' Challenge Week 11 Update
I'm just gonna get this out of the way right off the bat:
No, that's not a mistake. Yes, I was 215 pounds last week at this time, but today I REALLY DO weigh 225.5 pounds--a weight GAIN of 10 1/2 pounds! HOLY COW!
How can this happen? Did you binge eat in response to your tumultuous week of unpleasant events last week? Was the pain of going through so much at one time even too much for you to bear than you pigged out like nobody's business? Will you ever be able to turn it around now? Doom, gloom, despair...OH MY!
If these are the kinds of thoughts and questions running through your mind, then let me just say one thing to you: SNAP OUT OF IT! LOL! Everything is gonna be alright. Really, it is and I truly believe that. A little weight gain that happens in one week will not determine my overall perspective on how successful I will be in my long-term goals of being skinnier and healthier than I am right now. This is all just a part of the journey that each of us has to go through when we are attempting to make permanent, lasting changes in our lives.
Just in case you are wondering, I did NOT stray from my low-carb plan one bit last week nor did I eat like a madman. The only thing that changed was I stopped eating the more expensive organic eggs since I lost my job and cannot afford them right now (I'll also be dropping the Atkins shakes and some other costlier foods in the coming weeks until financial stability returns). Also, I slacked off on going to the gym for my regular workouts towards the end of the week so I could take some "me" time to reflect on what has happened in my life as of late. But I don't think these minimal changes had anything to do with my weight gain.
Here's what I ate with commentary about each day:
Typical start of the work week day
MONDAY
7:45AM - Atkins Shake
9:15AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
11:15AM - GoLower bar
1:00PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
3:00PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Butter bar
5:15PM - 3 grilled chicken tenderloins w/white BBQ sauce and 1 cup green beans
7:30PM - Atkins Strawberry Crisp bar
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
Restless night of sleep thinking about Kevin
TUESDAY
4:15AM - Atkins Shake
8:00AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
9:45AM - GoLower bar
11:45AM - 1 1/2 cups of green beans
Left work two hours early to get some much-needed rest
7:15PM - 1/4 pound BBQ pork, 2 cups salad greens w/Ranch
8:45PM - 1 1/2 cups homemade low-carb bread pudding
EXERCISE: None
Worked for three hours before being told I was let go
WEDNESDAY
8:45AM - Atkins Shake
10:00AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
12:15PM - 3 grilled chicken tenderloins w/Feta cheese and mayo, 2 cups green beans
3:45PM - 3/4 cups sugar-free cheesecake
5:45PM - GoLower bar
7:45PM - 2 La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
8:15PM - 1/4 cup sugar-free cheesecake
EXERCISE: 30 minutes elliptical
Had a great interview with a temp agency in the morning
THURSDAY
6:30AM - Atkins Shake
1:30PM - 1 1/2 cups greens w/eggs, pepperoni, cheese, sunflower seeds and Ranch, 1/2 pound BBQ pork, 1/2 cup taco meat w/nacho cheese and sour cream, 1 chicken breast, 1 cup cantaloupe, 1 cup honeydew melon w/whipped cream
10:00PM - 1/2 cup sugar-free, low-carb chocolate brownie pudding
EXERCISE: 90 minutes volleyball
Reality of being jobless beginning to sink in more
FRIDAY
9:15AM - Atkins Shake
12:30PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
2:15PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Butter bar, 8 ounces of Calorie Countdown chocolate milk
7:15PM - 2 La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
8:45PM - 8 ounces of Calorie Countdown chocolate milk, 1/4 cup Dixie Diner low-carb chocolate chip cookie dough
EXERCISE: None
Did not hear back from the temp agency before the weekend
SATURDAY
12:30PM - 2 eggs, 3 sausage patties, 1 smoked sausage
5:15PM - 1 pound of BBQ
8:30PM - ChocoPerfection bar
EXERCISE: 3 hours of constant walking around taking pictures at my church's Fall Festival
Sharing with my Sunday School class and church family about my job situation was very emotional for my wife Christine who broke down crying several times
SUNDAY
7:45AM - Atkins Shake
8:15PM - GoLower bar
12:00PM - 2 La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
1:30PM - ChocoPerfection bar
6:00PM - 3 grilled chicken tenderloins w/Feta cheese and mayo, 1 cups green beans
10:15PM - 1 cup of sugar-free, low-carb brownies pudding
EXERCISE: None
So that's what I ate. It was all low-carb and I resisted any temptation to splurge. There was nothing on that entire menu that I haven't even before in weeks that I have lost weight on my low-carb plan, so the only logical explanation for my weight gain has got to be the added stress.
My friend Dr. Jonny Bowden explains about how stress in your life can release a nasty hormone in your body called cortisol which stimulates your appetite and makes you gain weight in the mid-section. EEEK! You can eat right, exercise, do all the right things and the weight will still come on without the proper management of stress. I'm working on that right now.
Although I believe I have been able to deal with the stress of losing my job, watching my brother go through some very serious health complications, financial issues concerning my house and more, my body knows about all these things and is responding accordingly. There's really nothing I can do about the current state of affairs I am facing.
But right here and right now is really is where the rubber meets the road. Do I get so discouraged because I GAINED over 10 pounds in one week or do I stick with the program knowing it works and that I will eventually succeed? I think you know the answer to that question already. And this is not just about me and my life, but it could be YOUR situation as well.
Do you see a weight gain of 3, 6 or even 10 pounds as a sign that you are failing at your attempts to lose weight? If so, then DON'T DO THAT! We are our own worst enemy when it comes to making changes in our lives, whether it is weight loss or whatever. If our problem with being overweight or obese is EVER going to be addressed, then we need to end this madness of feeling sorry for ourselves and sabotaging our own efforts to improve ourselves. It can and MUST happen!
Here's a thought: I bet nobody else GAINED more than 10 pounds in the "30-In-30" challenge this week! Hee hee! How'd your week go?
No, that's not a mistake. Yes, I was 215 pounds last week at this time, but today I REALLY DO weigh 225.5 pounds--a weight GAIN of 10 1/2 pounds! HOLY COW!
How can this happen? Did you binge eat in response to your tumultuous week of unpleasant events last week? Was the pain of going through so much at one time even too much for you to bear than you pigged out like nobody's business? Will you ever be able to turn it around now? Doom, gloom, despair...OH MY!
If these are the kinds of thoughts and questions running through your mind, then let me just say one thing to you: SNAP OUT OF IT! LOL! Everything is gonna be alright. Really, it is and I truly believe that. A little weight gain that happens in one week will not determine my overall perspective on how successful I will be in my long-term goals of being skinnier and healthier than I am right now. This is all just a part of the journey that each of us has to go through when we are attempting to make permanent, lasting changes in our lives.
Just in case you are wondering, I did NOT stray from my low-carb plan one bit last week nor did I eat like a madman. The only thing that changed was I stopped eating the more expensive organic eggs since I lost my job and cannot afford them right now (I'll also be dropping the Atkins shakes and some other costlier foods in the coming weeks until financial stability returns). Also, I slacked off on going to the gym for my regular workouts towards the end of the week so I could take some "me" time to reflect on what has happened in my life as of late. But I don't think these minimal changes had anything to do with my weight gain.
Here's what I ate with commentary about each day:
Typical start of the work week day
MONDAY
7:45AM - Atkins Shake
9:15AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
11:15AM - GoLower bar
1:00PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
3:00PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Butter bar
5:15PM - 3 grilled chicken tenderloins w/white BBQ sauce and 1 cup green beans
7:30PM - Atkins Strawberry Crisp bar
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
Restless night of sleep thinking about Kevin
TUESDAY
4:15AM - Atkins Shake
8:00AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
9:45AM - GoLower bar
11:45AM - 1 1/2 cups of green beans
Left work two hours early to get some much-needed rest
7:15PM - 1/4 pound BBQ pork, 2 cups salad greens w/Ranch
8:45PM - 1 1/2 cups homemade low-carb bread pudding
EXERCISE: None
Worked for three hours before being told I was let go
WEDNESDAY
8:45AM - Atkins Shake
10:00AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
12:15PM - 3 grilled chicken tenderloins w/Feta cheese and mayo, 2 cups green beans
3:45PM - 3/4 cups sugar-free cheesecake
5:45PM - GoLower bar
7:45PM - 2 La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
8:15PM - 1/4 cup sugar-free cheesecake
EXERCISE: 30 minutes elliptical
Had a great interview with a temp agency in the morning
THURSDAY
6:30AM - Atkins Shake
1:30PM - 1 1/2 cups greens w/eggs, pepperoni, cheese, sunflower seeds and Ranch, 1/2 pound BBQ pork, 1/2 cup taco meat w/nacho cheese and sour cream, 1 chicken breast, 1 cup cantaloupe, 1 cup honeydew melon w/whipped cream
10:00PM - 1/2 cup sugar-free, low-carb chocolate brownie pudding
EXERCISE: 90 minutes volleyball
Reality of being jobless beginning to sink in more
FRIDAY
9:15AM - Atkins Shake
12:30PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
2:15PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Butter bar, 8 ounces of Calorie Countdown chocolate milk
7:15PM - 2 La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
8:45PM - 8 ounces of Calorie Countdown chocolate milk, 1/4 cup Dixie Diner low-carb chocolate chip cookie dough
EXERCISE: None
Did not hear back from the temp agency before the weekend
SATURDAY
12:30PM - 2 eggs, 3 sausage patties, 1 smoked sausage
5:15PM - 1 pound of BBQ
8:30PM - ChocoPerfection bar
EXERCISE: 3 hours of constant walking around taking pictures at my church's Fall Festival
Sharing with my Sunday School class and church family about my job situation was very emotional for my wife Christine who broke down crying several times
SUNDAY
7:45AM - Atkins Shake
8:15PM - GoLower bar
12:00PM - 2 La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
1:30PM - ChocoPerfection bar
6:00PM - 3 grilled chicken tenderloins w/Feta cheese and mayo, 1 cups green beans
10:15PM - 1 cup of sugar-free, low-carb brownies pudding
EXERCISE: None
So that's what I ate. It was all low-carb and I resisted any temptation to splurge. There was nothing on that entire menu that I haven't even before in weeks that I have lost weight on my low-carb plan, so the only logical explanation for my weight gain has got to be the added stress.
My friend Dr. Jonny Bowden explains about how stress in your life can release a nasty hormone in your body called cortisol which stimulates your appetite and makes you gain weight in the mid-section. EEEK! You can eat right, exercise, do all the right things and the weight will still come on without the proper management of stress. I'm working on that right now.
Although I believe I have been able to deal with the stress of losing my job, watching my brother go through some very serious health complications, financial issues concerning my house and more, my body knows about all these things and is responding accordingly. There's really nothing I can do about the current state of affairs I am facing.
But right here and right now is really is where the rubber meets the road. Do I get so discouraged because I GAINED over 10 pounds in one week or do I stick with the program knowing it works and that I will eventually succeed? I think you know the answer to that question already. And this is not just about me and my life, but it could be YOUR situation as well.
Do you see a weight gain of 3, 6 or even 10 pounds as a sign that you are failing at your attempts to lose weight? If so, then DON'T DO THAT! We are our own worst enemy when it comes to making changes in our lives, whether it is weight loss or whatever. If our problem with being overweight or obese is EVER going to be addressed, then we need to end this madness of feeling sorry for ourselves and sabotaging our own efforts to improve ourselves. It can and MUST happen!
Here's a thought: I bet nobody else GAINED more than 10 pounds in the "30-In-30" challenge this week! Hee hee! How'd your week go?
Labels: 30-in-30, challenge, menu, stress, weight gain, weight loss
Thursday, October 12, 2006
I Hope YOUR Week Has Been Better Than Mine
When it rains, it most certainly pours.
That can apply to just about anything, but especially to life in general. You just never know what's gonna come your way tomorrow, next week, next month, or next year. Or even that you'll be around to see it.
This reality has hit me right square in the face over this past week. You know, I've always heard that bad news comes in threes. Now I've experienced it for myself with a chain of events that began last week and culminated today. Let me share them with you now.
BAD NEWS #1: Kevin
Last Monday, I received a telephone call from my mom who said my only full-blooded brother Kevin has been hospitalized and they found he has one artery to his heart that is completely clogged and two others that are 90 percent blocked. So many of you have been praying for Kevin as the doctors try to figure out what to do. He weighed too much (around 600 pounds) for one test, they cancelled another test last Thursday, and finally just discharged him from the hospital on Monday to see a specialist three hours away to conduct the tests. He needs emergency open-heart surgery according to the doctors, but they didn't want the liability of his death in case he didn't survive the surgery. He's only 39 years old. We're still in the hurry up and "wait" mode and may not know anything for sure for several weeks. Continue to pray for him and my family as we go through this difficult experience with Kevin. He needs a miracle at this point.
BAD NEWS #2: Our bathroom floor and roof
Just like every homeowner, Christine and I have had to deal with some issues around the house that needed to be attended to for the upkeep of our home. About a year or so ago, we noticed that we had several leaks in our ceiling that came every time it rained. When an inspector came out to the house, he discovered we had a shoddy roof job from the previous owner and he said we needed a new roof put on to the tune of about $5,000. Okay, fine. We paid someone to put a tarp on our roof while we started saving money to get that job done. We were getting close to having the money to pay for that repair when...
UH OH, what's that dip in our bathroom floor?
We noticed a couple of weeks ago that we had a leak around the toilet in the master bathroom. We called a plumber to come out to look at it and he gave us the disturbing news that the entire bathroom floor was so rotted out that the toilet was literally being held up by the pipes and that's it! EEEK! We called a home contractor to come out and he quoted us a price to repair the bathroom floor that basically depleted all of the savings we had designated for the roof repairs. The repair looks good and Christine was able to get some new tile floors out of it, but now we are back to square one with our savings account and the roof isn't getting any better in the meantime. Lord, keep the ice storms away this winter! :)
BAD NEWS #3: My job
As if news about my brother and the financial strain of paying for unexpected home repairs wasn't enough, the big one hit me this morning when after four and a half years of employment at my current job, I was told my services would no longer be needed. It wasn't a fancy job by any means, but it was my primary means for paying the bills. The company I worked for is in a transitionary period and the new boss they brought in just a couple of days ago apparently didn't like me for whatever reason. I guess these things happen, but now I'm without a full-time job. If only blogging full-time could make me money to support my family...HA, I'm dreaming of course! I have an interview with a temp agency on Thursday morning and have put in my resume with a company looking for a freelance writer. Cross your fingers for me and wish me luck! :)
So there's my WAH WAH WAH for the day. Sure, life could be worse--A LOT WORSE! And that's the perspective I have to take at this moment because I have been blessed with what I do have. Could I get upset and go wallow in my own self-pity party over a pizza? Sure. What about drowning my sorrows with a big hot fudge cake with vanilla ice cream on top? Yep.
But you know what? Those things are not worth it despite my current circumstances. These bad times are only temporary, but your weight and health are with you for the rest of your life. While I may think having those indulgences will make me feel better and that I NEED them to comfort me at this time, the truth is that I DON'T need them and they won't help me in the long run.
Keeping that frame of mind is what will keep me slim and sane even when life throws me a curve ball or two (or THREE!) like it has this past week. Don't ever let life cause your weight loss efforts to taper and you fall off the wagon. DON'T DO IT! You'll be glad you didn't when happier days come back on the horizon for you.
By the way, do you know anyone who could use a quirky freelance writer with a knack for healthy living? :D
That can apply to just about anything, but especially to life in general. You just never know what's gonna come your way tomorrow, next week, next month, or next year. Or even that you'll be around to see it.
This reality has hit me right square in the face over this past week. You know, I've always heard that bad news comes in threes. Now I've experienced it for myself with a chain of events that began last week and culminated today. Let me share them with you now.
BAD NEWS #1: Kevin
Last Monday, I received a telephone call from my mom who said my only full-blooded brother Kevin has been hospitalized and they found he has one artery to his heart that is completely clogged and two others that are 90 percent blocked. So many of you have been praying for Kevin as the doctors try to figure out what to do. He weighed too much (around 600 pounds) for one test, they cancelled another test last Thursday, and finally just discharged him from the hospital on Monday to see a specialist three hours away to conduct the tests. He needs emergency open-heart surgery according to the doctors, but they didn't want the liability of his death in case he didn't survive the surgery. He's only 39 years old. We're still in the hurry up and "wait" mode and may not know anything for sure for several weeks. Continue to pray for him and my family as we go through this difficult experience with Kevin. He needs a miracle at this point.
BAD NEWS #2: Our bathroom floor and roof
Just like every homeowner, Christine and I have had to deal with some issues around the house that needed to be attended to for the upkeep of our home. About a year or so ago, we noticed that we had several leaks in our ceiling that came every time it rained. When an inspector came out to the house, he discovered we had a shoddy roof job from the previous owner and he said we needed a new roof put on to the tune of about $5,000. Okay, fine. We paid someone to put a tarp on our roof while we started saving money to get that job done. We were getting close to having the money to pay for that repair when...
UH OH, what's that dip in our bathroom floor?
We noticed a couple of weeks ago that we had a leak around the toilet in the master bathroom. We called a plumber to come out to look at it and he gave us the disturbing news that the entire bathroom floor was so rotted out that the toilet was literally being held up by the pipes and that's it! EEEK! We called a home contractor to come out and he quoted us a price to repair the bathroom floor that basically depleted all of the savings we had designated for the roof repairs. The repair looks good and Christine was able to get some new tile floors out of it, but now we are back to square one with our savings account and the roof isn't getting any better in the meantime. Lord, keep the ice storms away this winter! :)
BAD NEWS #3: My job
As if news about my brother and the financial strain of paying for unexpected home repairs wasn't enough, the big one hit me this morning when after four and a half years of employment at my current job, I was told my services would no longer be needed. It wasn't a fancy job by any means, but it was my primary means for paying the bills. The company I worked for is in a transitionary period and the new boss they brought in just a couple of days ago apparently didn't like me for whatever reason. I guess these things happen, but now I'm without a full-time job. If only blogging full-time could make me money to support my family...HA, I'm dreaming of course! I have an interview with a temp agency on Thursday morning and have put in my resume with a company looking for a freelance writer. Cross your fingers for me and wish me luck! :)
So there's my WAH WAH WAH for the day. Sure, life could be worse--A LOT WORSE! And that's the perspective I have to take at this moment because I have been blessed with what I do have. Could I get upset and go wallow in my own self-pity party over a pizza? Sure. What about drowning my sorrows with a big hot fudge cake with vanilla ice cream on top? Yep.
But you know what? Those things are not worth it despite my current circumstances. These bad times are only temporary, but your weight and health are with you for the rest of your life. While I may think having those indulgences will make me feel better and that I NEED them to comfort me at this time, the truth is that I DON'T need them and they won't help me in the long run.
Keeping that frame of mind is what will keep me slim and sane even when life throws me a curve ball or two (or THREE!) like it has this past week. Don't ever let life cause your weight loss efforts to taper and you fall off the wagon. DON'T DO IT! You'll be glad you didn't when happier days come back on the horizon for you.
By the way, do you know anyone who could use a quirky freelance writer with a knack for healthy living? :D
Labels: bad news, life, low-carb, weight loss
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Here's Another One Week Low-Carb Menu
After losing three pounds last week, here's another one-week menu:
SUPPLEMENTS
3 teaspoons of liquid multivitamin (no iron)
1 brick men's multivitamin (no iron)
200mg Co Q-10
200mcg Chromium Picolinate
250mg Acetyl L-Carnitine
1 brick B Complex Vitamins
6 tablets Shaklee Super Calcium Magnesium Plus
2 caplets Fibercon
2 softgels Atkins Essential Oils
3 softgels 1000mg each Fish Oil Concentrate
I drank lots of water and have been aspartame and caffeine-free for the past five weeks in a row! WOO HOO!
Here was my menu and exercise routine from last week:
MONDAY
8:30AM - Atkins Shake
10:45AM - 5 eggs with cheese
12:30PM - Atkins Double Chocolate Crunch bar
2:15PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
3:00PM - GoLower bar
5:00PM - Atkins Fudge Brownie Caramel bar
8:15PM - 3 grilled chicken tenderloins w/Feta cheese and mayo
8:45PM - 1 cup vanilla-raspberry sugar-free mousse
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
TUESDAY
9:00AM - Atkins Shake
10:45AM - 5 eggs with cheese
12:45PM - Atkins Double Chocolate Caramel Crunch bar
2:45PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
5:00PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Butter Nougat Caramel bar
8:30PM - 4 grilled chicken tenderloins w/Feta cheese and mayo
EXERCISE: 15 minutes walking, 30 minutes elliptical
WEDNESDAY
8:45AM - Atkins Shake
10:45AM - 5 eggs with cheese
12:45PM - Atkins Chocolate Chip Granola bar
2:45PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
5:00PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Nougat Caramel bar
8:30PM - 3 grilled chicken tenderloins w/Feta cheese and mayo, 1 cup green beans
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
THURSDAY
7:15AM - Atkins Shake
9:45AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
1:00PM - 1 sausage patty, Atkins Brownie Caramel bar
2:45PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Butter bar
5:15PM - 3 grilled chicken tenderloins w/Feta cheese and mayo, 1 cup green beans
6:00PM - 1 cup vanilla caramel sugar-free mousse
10:00PM - GoLower bar
EXERCISE: 30 minutes walking, 100 minutes volleyball
FRIDAY
7:30AM - Atkins Shake
9:00AM - 4 organic eggs w/cheese
11:15AM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Nougat Caramel bar
1:15PM - 4 organic eggs w/cheese
3:00PM - Atkins Peanut Butter Granola bar
6:00PM - 2 cups salad greens w/Ranch, 12 oz salmon steak
9:00PM - Atkins Strawberry Crisp breakfast bar
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
SATURDAY
8:45AM - Atkins Shake
10:00AM - 12 eggs w/cheese, 3 slices of bacon, 5 sausage patties
10:30PM - Atkins Cranberry Almond Granola bar
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
SUNDAY
9:30AM - Atkins Shake
5:00PM - 3 cups salad greens w/tomatoes, cucumbers, Ranch, 10 garlic butter shrimp scampi w/cocktail sauce, 1/3 cup broiled scallops, 6 oz broiled flounder w/tartar sauce, 1/4 cup crab meat
6:30PM - 6 tablespoons Naturally More Peanut Butter w/sugar-free syrup
EXERCISE: None
Does this look healthy to you? :)
SUPPLEMENTS
3 teaspoons of liquid multivitamin (no iron)
1 brick men's multivitamin (no iron)
200mg Co Q-10
200mcg Chromium Picolinate
250mg Acetyl L-Carnitine
1 brick B Complex Vitamins
6 tablets Shaklee Super Calcium Magnesium Plus
2 caplets Fibercon
2 softgels Atkins Essential Oils
3 softgels 1000mg each Fish Oil Concentrate
I drank lots of water and have been aspartame and caffeine-free for the past five weeks in a row! WOO HOO!
Here was my menu and exercise routine from last week:
MONDAY
8:30AM - Atkins Shake
10:45AM - 5 eggs with cheese
12:30PM - Atkins Double Chocolate Crunch bar
2:15PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
3:00PM - GoLower bar
5:00PM - Atkins Fudge Brownie Caramel bar
8:15PM - 3 grilled chicken tenderloins w/Feta cheese and mayo
8:45PM - 1 cup vanilla-raspberry sugar-free mousse
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
TUESDAY
9:00AM - Atkins Shake
10:45AM - 5 eggs with cheese
12:45PM - Atkins Double Chocolate Caramel Crunch bar
2:45PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
5:00PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Butter Nougat Caramel bar
8:30PM - 4 grilled chicken tenderloins w/Feta cheese and mayo
EXERCISE: 15 minutes walking, 30 minutes elliptical
WEDNESDAY
8:45AM - Atkins Shake
10:45AM - 5 eggs with cheese
12:45PM - Atkins Chocolate Chip Granola bar
2:45PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
5:00PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Nougat Caramel bar
8:30PM - 3 grilled chicken tenderloins w/Feta cheese and mayo, 1 cup green beans
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
THURSDAY
7:15AM - Atkins Shake
9:45AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
1:00PM - 1 sausage patty, Atkins Brownie Caramel bar
2:45PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Butter bar
5:15PM - 3 grilled chicken tenderloins w/Feta cheese and mayo, 1 cup green beans
6:00PM - 1 cup vanilla caramel sugar-free mousse
10:00PM - GoLower bar
EXERCISE: 30 minutes walking, 100 minutes volleyball
FRIDAY
7:30AM - Atkins Shake
9:00AM - 4 organic eggs w/cheese
11:15AM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Nougat Caramel bar
1:15PM - 4 organic eggs w/cheese
3:00PM - Atkins Peanut Butter Granola bar
6:00PM - 2 cups salad greens w/Ranch, 12 oz salmon steak
9:00PM - Atkins Strawberry Crisp breakfast bar
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
SATURDAY
8:45AM - Atkins Shake
10:00AM - 12 eggs w/cheese, 3 slices of bacon, 5 sausage patties
10:30PM - Atkins Cranberry Almond Granola bar
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
SUNDAY
9:30AM - Atkins Shake
5:00PM - 3 cups salad greens w/tomatoes, cucumbers, Ranch, 10 garlic butter shrimp scampi w/cocktail sauce, 1/3 cup broiled scallops, 6 oz broiled flounder w/tartar sauce, 1/4 cup crab meat
6:30PM - 6 tablespoons Naturally More Peanut Butter w/sugar-free syrup
EXERCISE: None
Does this look healthy to you? :)
Labels: food, low-carb, menu, supplements, vitamins, weight loss
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
'30-In-30' Challenge Week 10 Update
Welcome to the Week 10 weigh-in of the "30-In-30" Low-Carb Weight Loss Challenge that began back on August 1, 2006 as my personal challenge and goal to lose 30 pounds in 30 weeks. Literally hundreds (maybe even thousands!) of people are taking this challenge right now as they seek to lose weight, get healthy and change their lives forever. CONGRATULATIONS to everyone involved because you ARE making a difference in your life by doing this.
Let me just pause for a moment and personally THANK YOU for your outpouring of love and support for me and my family as we deal with the health complications of my brother Kevin. I still don't know what's going to happen next and the doctors are being very methodical in their response to the news that he has one artery that is 100% clogged and two others that are 90% blocked. Keep praying that a miracle can happen. God bless you.
Well, speaking of Kevin, one of your fellow participants in the "30-In-30" Low-Carb Weight Loss Challenge is struggling right now. She was quite open and honest with me about what she describes as Kevinist-type behavior. With her father weighing a robust 500 pounds with Type 2 diabetes and a sister who is a dietitian weighing in at 300 pounds, she doesn't have very good examples around her to support her low-carb lifestyle. In fact, her family is all stuck on low-calorie/low-fat diets.
Here's what she wrote in her e-mail:
"I am me. I am a sugar addict. I love bread and chocolate. I mean, I REALLY LOVE IT! I know that livin' la vida low carb makes me feel 200% better, yet I've fallen hard lately. Could you give me a motivational blog perhaps to get back on the wagon and go for it? I could use an inspirational story."
Well, that's what I try to do every single time I post a new article at my "Livin' La Vida Low-Carb" blog. In fact, just today I wrote this blog post to provide some tough love and encouragement for people who have gotten stuck thinking their obesity is caused by an illness or disease (it is NOT, by the way, which is the whole point of my post). There is LOTS of uplifting encouragement in there for people who need to get back on the straight and narrow. Check it out!
How about you? Are you stuck in a rut like your fellow participant? Are you finding it difficult to give up those things you think you can't live without such as bread, sugar and chocolate despite the fact that you know low-carb living is best for you? If so, then you should feel free to share those struggles with us. Click on the comment section below and allow your "30-In-30" buddies cheer you on and lift you up today. That's why we're here, so take advantage of it.
Alrighty now, we're now ten weeks down in this challenge which is one-third of the way in our thirty weeks of low-carb. By this point, you should have lost 10 pounds already (at least!) and well on your way to getting healthier and healthier! Just out of curiosity, I'd LOVE for everyone who is participating and willing to share publicly or anonymously how much weight they have lost since starting the challenge.
Of course, not everyone started on August 1st, but how about we do this. Click on the comment link below and provide the following information:
1. Your name (real or fake) if you want to provide it.
2. When you started "30-In-30."
3. How much weight you have lost.
4. Any comments about your experience so far.
That's easy, isn't it? And it won't take that long. I think if we see how everyone else is doing, then it may spur others to get going with their efforts a little harder. You know, a little friendly competition doesn't hurt. :)
So, I guess I should tell you what my Week 10 was like in terms of weight loss now, eh? I knew you were wondering, so how about I just tell you already.
ANOTHER THREE-POUND WEIGHT LOSS!!!
Oh, I'm so excited that I have now lost an increidible 25 pounds in ten weeks, just five pounds aways from my original goal of 210. But a couple of weeks ago I adjusted my weight loss goal to a challenging, but certainly attainable 199 pounds. There's no doubt in my mind I will make it there and I have 20 more weeks to lose 16 pounds--less than a pound a week!
I had no idea the weight would be coming off again like it has before, but it most certainly is. I'm not complaining because I know it could stall at any moment...and probably will. But will I get discouraged? Heck no, it's just a stall. We all go through the stall while we're having a ball in the Fall walking through the mall trying to avoid hitting the wall. Er, sorry about that, I just felt the need to alliterate a little. :)
Okay, it's your turn now. What was YOUR Week 10 like?
Let me just pause for a moment and personally THANK YOU for your outpouring of love and support for me and my family as we deal with the health complications of my brother Kevin. I still don't know what's going to happen next and the doctors are being very methodical in their response to the news that he has one artery that is 100% clogged and two others that are 90% blocked. Keep praying that a miracle can happen. God bless you.
Well, speaking of Kevin, one of your fellow participants in the "30-In-30" Low-Carb Weight Loss Challenge is struggling right now. She was quite open and honest with me about what she describes as Kevinist-type behavior. With her father weighing a robust 500 pounds with Type 2 diabetes and a sister who is a dietitian weighing in at 300 pounds, she doesn't have very good examples around her to support her low-carb lifestyle. In fact, her family is all stuck on low-calorie/low-fat diets.
Here's what she wrote in her e-mail:
"I am me. I am a sugar addict. I love bread and chocolate. I mean, I REALLY LOVE IT! I know that livin' la vida low carb makes me feel 200% better, yet I've fallen hard lately. Could you give me a motivational blog perhaps to get back on the wagon and go for it? I could use an inspirational story."
Well, that's what I try to do every single time I post a new article at my "Livin' La Vida Low-Carb" blog. In fact, just today I wrote this blog post to provide some tough love and encouragement for people who have gotten stuck thinking their obesity is caused by an illness or disease (it is NOT, by the way, which is the whole point of my post). There is LOTS of uplifting encouragement in there for people who need to get back on the straight and narrow. Check it out!
How about you? Are you stuck in a rut like your fellow participant? Are you finding it difficult to give up those things you think you can't live without such as bread, sugar and chocolate despite the fact that you know low-carb living is best for you? If so, then you should feel free to share those struggles with us. Click on the comment section below and allow your "30-In-30" buddies cheer you on and lift you up today. That's why we're here, so take advantage of it.
Alrighty now, we're now ten weeks down in this challenge which is one-third of the way in our thirty weeks of low-carb. By this point, you should have lost 10 pounds already (at least!) and well on your way to getting healthier and healthier! Just out of curiosity, I'd LOVE for everyone who is participating and willing to share publicly or anonymously how much weight they have lost since starting the challenge.
Of course, not everyone started on August 1st, but how about we do this. Click on the comment link below and provide the following information:
1. Your name (real or fake) if you want to provide it.
2. When you started "30-In-30."
3. How much weight you have lost.
4. Any comments about your experience so far.
That's easy, isn't it? And it won't take that long. I think if we see how everyone else is doing, then it may spur others to get going with their efforts a little harder. You know, a little friendly competition doesn't hurt. :)
So, I guess I should tell you what my Week 10 was like in terms of weight loss now, eh? I knew you were wondering, so how about I just tell you already.
ANOTHER THREE-POUND WEIGHT LOSS!!!
Oh, I'm so excited that I have now lost an increidible 25 pounds in ten weeks, just five pounds aways from my original goal of 210. But a couple of weeks ago I adjusted my weight loss goal to a challenging, but certainly attainable 199 pounds. There's no doubt in my mind I will make it there and I have 20 more weeks to lose 16 pounds--less than a pound a week!
I had no idea the weight would be coming off again like it has before, but it most certainly is. I'm not complaining because I know it could stall at any moment...and probably will. But will I get discouraged? Heck no, it's just a stall. We all go through the stall while we're having a ball in the Fall walking through the mall trying to avoid hitting the wall. Er, sorry about that, I just felt the need to alliterate a little. :)
Okay, it's your turn now. What was YOUR Week 10 like?
Labels: 30-in-30, challenge, encouragement, Kevin, low-carb, motivation, weight loss
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Are You A Kevin Or Know A Kevin In Your Life?
My brother Kevin has continuing health problems because of his obesity
Some people ask me why I am so adamant about what I write about at my blogs. Others wonder if I should be using my time in other ways to do other things that I like to do. It's certainly a valid question and I appreciate the concern that people have shown for me and acknowledging the sacrifices I have made to do what I do.
But what I am going to blog about today is exactly why I spend so many hours relentlessly typing away the message of livin' la vida low-carb and making your body as healthy as it can be. Well, it's not so much a what, but a WHO: a man by the name of Kevin Lee Moore.
I've told you about Kevin before and he took a sudden turn for the worse this week. Back in November 2005, doctors gave him one year to live if he didn't lose weight as soon as possible. At the time Kevin weighed close to 600 pounds.
Just as he has done on every previous time he attempted weight loss or anything in his life, Kevin was gung ho about it...for a while. As in a couple of months. But then it happened to him--he starts feeling a little bit better, thinks he's gonna be okay now, stops doing those things that are essential for improving himself, and goes into complete denial about his morbid obesity.
Keep in mind, this is the same man who in 1999 at the age of 32 experience three heart attacks in the span of a week that nearly killed him. And it's ONLY because of the complications brought on by his massive weight problem.
Sure, he's had some difficult life experiences, including a horrific marriage to a woman who basically made his life a living Hell when he had his heart attacks and was no longer able to work. She mentally and even physically abused him in ways that probably reminded him of what our dad had done to us when we were children. Thankfully he got out of that relationship with a divorce a couple of years ago, but the lingering damage has been done.
Like many people who are hurting and life seems in such turmoil, Kevin turns to food to comfort himself. And not just a little food. I mean an out-of-proportion gargantuan amount of grub that would make most people's eyes bug out. For example, he's go to McDonald's and get 5 Big Macs with 3 Large orders of French fries and 10 cookies. EEEEEK! Unreasonable to most, but reality for my brother.
This is my own flesh and blood, mind you. A man that I grew up with calling my older brother. Yeah, he was my stupid, ugly butt hole older brother and enjoyed taunting me as every older brother does, but it was only because he was my brother. We shared a lot of happy memories wrestling on the ground or playing pool at the local game room (I always beat him at it and he hated that!). While we endured the divorces that both of our parents went through and lived as normal a life as we possibly could considering the hand life dealt us as kids.
Fast forward a few years to 2004, I decided to take control of my weight and health for real and stop wallowing in the past with all the genuine hurt and pain that I had endured for my entire life. It was at that point there were no more excuses for the way I was living my life NOW and I did something about it. My old eating habits would have to be radically changed and exercise would need to become my friend rather than my foe.
As you know, I did it--I lost 180 pounds in one year and avoided the obesity-related health decline that hit my brother like a 2X4 upside the back of the head. My brother was a contributing motivating factor for me to do it for real this time for a couple of reasons. First, I wanted desperately to NEVER have to go through what he has since his heart attacks. Second, and even more importantly, I thought my example to my only full-blooded brother would get him going.
Unfortunately, I learned the hard lesson that you can't make ANYONE lose weight who is unwilling to do it for themselves. You just can't and Kevin is the prime example. He's read my book, he's seen me in person, I've given him advice about the changes he could make in his life if he truly wants to lose weight and restore his health. But he has ignored it all.
Now it's October 2006 and that man in the picture at the top of this post is hanging on by a thread. He was hospitalized as he has been hundreds of times the past seven years, but this time is quite different. The stent they put in his heart valve before is completely blocked now. He has two other arteries that are 90 percent blocked as well. He was very weak and fatigued when I spoke with him on the telephone, but he was hopeful the doctors could do something for him as they have in the past.
On Monday, the doctors he saw said they were too afraid to do open heart surgery on him because they feared he may not be strong enough to come back if they put him under. Then on Wednesday, they tried to run a test on him, but Kevin was way too big for the table which could not hold him. Yes, he's still around 600 pounds.
My mom told me that Kevin is supposed to have a PT scan today on his heart to determine what they will do next. It is very likely he will be sent to a specialist hospital a few hours away and Christine and I will very likely be going to visit him there if that happens. I'll try to let you know when that happens so you can pray for him specifically about his surgery and for us as we travel.
Do I even need to tell you how upsetting this is to me? It's something no parent or sibling should EVER have to go through because it is all preventable. But we all have choices to make in our life and Kevin has made his. He has simply accepted that he's fat and will always be fat for the rest of his life. That's what I used to think, too, but I instinctively knew better. Why do people fall into this self-imposed trap about their weight?
Now you realize why I remain so vigilant and passionate about sharing what has happened to me through my weight loss experience because this subject hits too close to home. My mom's dealt with her obesity with gastric bypass surgery and my half-brother Nathan was able to take off the pounds with a low-carb-styled program and exercise. But this is something that has completely alluded Kevin and the price for that decision, conscious or otherwise, is having to be paid now.
I'm sorry if this post is not the encouraging, put on a happy face, go get 'em article you have read from me over these past couple of years. But my mind has been uneasy since Monday when I got the news about Kevin. He's a special man that right now needs the earnest prayers of anyone who has felt the pain and agony of living with or being an obese person. I cherish those at this time for Kevin and my family and hope for the best to happen for my brother even if that means the good Lord will be taking him home soon.
I will certainly keep you informed about Kevin's progress in the next few days and post updates here when I get them. If I have to go away for a few days, then I know you will understand if the blog comes to a standstill. The work I am doing here is important, but Kevin's situation is life and death. If he's in his very last days, then I need to be with him. God bless you all for your continuing faithful support for me and what I am doing. Now you know a little more about why I will NEVER give up telling people about the healthy benefits of livin' la vida low-carb.
Labels: brother, health, Kevin, low-carb, obesity, weight loss
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
'30-In-30' Challenge Week 9 Update
I'm gonna start this week right away with my weight loss results from this past week on the "30-In-30" Low-Carb Weight Loss Challenge:
ANOTHER POUND LOST which brings my total up to 22 pounds since August 1, 2006 towards my goal of losing 30 pounds in 30 weeks. Because of my tremendous success on the challenge, last week I announced my new weight loss goal would be 199 pounds (ONE-DERLAND, as someone put it!). That's just 19 more pounds to lose in the next 21 weeks--NOT impossible!
You wanna hear something that's pretty funny to me. My wife Christine has been trying to lose weight lately because it has creeped up on her teeny tiny body. When I met her she was 90 pounds, was 95 pounds when we got married and now over a decade of marriage has caught up to her. She's not had any kids, so there's no weight gain from that. But the difference in our weight is closing quickly.
I weighed 330 pounds compared to her 95 pounds on our wedding day back in 1995 and, as you know, I got as high as 410 pounds when she was about 120--close to a 300-pound weight difference! But now...
She weighed herself this morning and announced what it was. I started doing the math and noticed I'm LESS THAN 75 POUNDS from her weight. HA! I know, that's not funny, but the competitive side of me says, heck, I can get that lower! LOL! Whatever it takes to be motivated, I do it. And you should, too!
Next week will be Week 10 of the challenge as we cross the one-third mark. Would you be so kind as to share any stories of success, lessons learned, or some words of encouragement to your fellow participants in the "30-In-30" Low-Carb Weight Loss Challenge? I KNOW it would mean so much to everyone involved. THANKS!
I'm going to go ahead and post my menu from this past week here as well. You will notice my supplements CHANGED slightly this week to help boost my omega-3s even more:
3 teaspoons of liquid multivitamin (no iron)
1 brick men's multivitamin (no iron)
200mg Co Q-10
200mcg Chromium Picolinate
250mg Acetyl L-Carnitine
1 brick B Complex Vitamins
6 tablets Shaklee Super Calcium Magnesium Plus
2 caplets Fibercon
2 softgels Atkins Essential Oils
3 softgels 1000mg each Fish Oil Concentrate
I drank lots of water and still only drinking Diet Rite soft drinks (although I noticed the store-brand diet soda uses Splenda and ACE-K with NO caffeine, too! I may have to try that!). I have avoided all Nutrasweet-sweetened sodas for a month now as well as caffeine. Here was my menu and exercise routine from last week:
MONDAY
7:45AM - Atkins Shake
10:00AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
11:15AM - Atkins Cookie Dough Caramel bar
12:45PM - 4 eggs with cheese
5:15PM - 8oz steak w/A-1, feta cheese, La Tortilla wrap
6:00PM - ChocoPerfection bar
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
TUESDAY
7:45AM - Atkins Shake
10:00AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
12:00PM - Atkins granola bar
1:30PM - 4 eggs with cheese
4:30PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Butter Nougat bar
8:15PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
8:30PM - ChocoPerfection bar
EXERCISE: 40 minutes elliptical
WEDNESDAY
7:45AM - Atkins Shake
9:45AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
11:00AM - Atkins Chocolate Chip Granola bar
1:00PM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
3:15PM - Atkins Cookie Dough Caramel bar
5:30PM - 3 chicken tenderloins w/cheese
6:00PM - 1/2 cup chocolate raspberry sugar-free pudding
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
THURSDAY
7:45AM - Atkins Shake
10:00AM - 4 eggs with cheese
12:45PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut nougat bar
2:00PM - 1 1/2 cups raspberry chocolate sugar-free pudding
4:15PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
6:15PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Butter bar
9:30PM - 3 chicken tenderloins w/cheese and mayo
10:00PM - ChocoPerfection bar
EXERCISE: 15 minutes walking, 60 minutes volleyball
FRIDAY
9:00AM - Atkins Shake
10:45AM - Atkins Fudge Brownie Caramel bar
12:30PM - GoLower bar
1:30PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
3:30PM - Atkins Cookie Dough Caramel bar
5:00PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
6:15PM - ChocoPerfection bar
9:15PM - 5 eggs w/cheese
9:30PM - GoLower bar
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
SATURDAY
8:30AM - Atkins Shake
10:00AM - 10 eggs w/cheese, 6 slices of bacon, 3 sausage patties
7:45PM - 2 cups salad greens w/cucumbers, tomatoes, asparagus, Ranch and 10oz grilled salmon steak
9:15PM - ChocoPerfection bar
EXERCISE: None
SUNDAY
9:15AM - Atkins Shake
12:00PM - 5 eggs w/cheese
1:00PM - GoLower bar
5:45PM - 10 grilled shrimp, 1 cup green beans, salad greens w/cucumbers, tomatoes, Ranch
6:30PM - ChocoPerfection bar
10:30PM - 1/2 cup vanilla raspberry mousse
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
Some of you might be thinking, DANG, HE'S EATING A LOT OF FOOD! Yep, I sure am and I'm making a point. Too many of us have the mistaken notion that you have to starve yourself to lose weight. But what happens is your body starts to become deprived of the calories it does need to function and you feel awful. Low-cab living is fun and exciting with LOTS of great foods to eat.
When your way of eating becomes dull and mundane, then you will stop eating the same way. That's why you see me change up my menu week after week because it should never be a drag to eat the low-carb way. If it is, then you aren't doing it right! Mix things up and do something different if you think low-carb is boring. Clearly, it is NOT!
Any comments, questions or feedback? PLEASE SHARE! :)
ANOTHER POUND LOST which brings my total up to 22 pounds since August 1, 2006 towards my goal of losing 30 pounds in 30 weeks. Because of my tremendous success on the challenge, last week I announced my new weight loss goal would be 199 pounds (ONE-DERLAND, as someone put it!). That's just 19 more pounds to lose in the next 21 weeks--NOT impossible!
You wanna hear something that's pretty funny to me. My wife Christine has been trying to lose weight lately because it has creeped up on her teeny tiny body. When I met her she was 90 pounds, was 95 pounds when we got married and now over a decade of marriage has caught up to her. She's not had any kids, so there's no weight gain from that. But the difference in our weight is closing quickly.
I weighed 330 pounds compared to her 95 pounds on our wedding day back in 1995 and, as you know, I got as high as 410 pounds when she was about 120--close to a 300-pound weight difference! But now...
She weighed herself this morning and announced what it was. I started doing the math and noticed I'm LESS THAN 75 POUNDS from her weight. HA! I know, that's not funny, but the competitive side of me says, heck, I can get that lower! LOL! Whatever it takes to be motivated, I do it. And you should, too!
Next week will be Week 10 of the challenge as we cross the one-third mark. Would you be so kind as to share any stories of success, lessons learned, or some words of encouragement to your fellow participants in the "30-In-30" Low-Carb Weight Loss Challenge? I KNOW it would mean so much to everyone involved. THANKS!
I'm going to go ahead and post my menu from this past week here as well. You will notice my supplements CHANGED slightly this week to help boost my omega-3s even more:
3 teaspoons of liquid multivitamin (no iron)
1 brick men's multivitamin (no iron)
200mg Co Q-10
200mcg Chromium Picolinate
250mg Acetyl L-Carnitine
1 brick B Complex Vitamins
6 tablets Shaklee Super Calcium Magnesium Plus
2 caplets Fibercon
2 softgels Atkins Essential Oils
3 softgels 1000mg each Fish Oil Concentrate
I drank lots of water and still only drinking Diet Rite soft drinks (although I noticed the store-brand diet soda uses Splenda and ACE-K with NO caffeine, too! I may have to try that!). I have avoided all Nutrasweet-sweetened sodas for a month now as well as caffeine. Here was my menu and exercise routine from last week:
MONDAY
7:45AM - Atkins Shake
10:00AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
11:15AM - Atkins Cookie Dough Caramel bar
12:45PM - 4 eggs with cheese
5:15PM - 8oz steak w/A-1, feta cheese, La Tortilla wrap
6:00PM - ChocoPerfection bar
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
TUESDAY
7:45AM - Atkins Shake
10:00AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
12:00PM - Atkins granola bar
1:30PM - 4 eggs with cheese
4:30PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Butter Nougat bar
8:15PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
8:30PM - ChocoPerfection bar
EXERCISE: 40 minutes elliptical
WEDNESDAY
7:45AM - Atkins Shake
9:45AM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
11:00AM - Atkins Chocolate Chip Granola bar
1:00PM - 4 organic eggs with cheese
3:15PM - Atkins Cookie Dough Caramel bar
5:30PM - 3 chicken tenderloins w/cheese
6:00PM - 1/2 cup chocolate raspberry sugar-free pudding
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
THURSDAY
7:45AM - Atkins Shake
10:00AM - 4 eggs with cheese
12:45PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut nougat bar
2:00PM - 1 1/2 cups raspberry chocolate sugar-free pudding
4:15PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
6:15PM - Atkins Chocolate Peanut Butter bar
9:30PM - 3 chicken tenderloins w/cheese and mayo
10:00PM - ChocoPerfection bar
EXERCISE: 15 minutes walking, 60 minutes volleyball
FRIDAY
9:00AM - Atkins Shake
10:45AM - Atkins Fudge Brownie Caramel bar
12:30PM - GoLower bar
1:30PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
3:30PM - Atkins Cookie Dough Caramel bar
5:00PM - La Tortilla Factory wrap w/turkey, cheese, mayo
6:15PM - ChocoPerfection bar
9:15PM - 5 eggs w/cheese
9:30PM - GoLower bar
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
SATURDAY
8:30AM - Atkins Shake
10:00AM - 10 eggs w/cheese, 6 slices of bacon, 3 sausage patties
7:45PM - 2 cups salad greens w/cucumbers, tomatoes, asparagus, Ranch and 10oz grilled salmon steak
9:15PM - ChocoPerfection bar
EXERCISE: None
SUNDAY
9:15AM - Atkins Shake
12:00PM - 5 eggs w/cheese
1:00PM - GoLower bar
5:45PM - 10 grilled shrimp, 1 cup green beans, salad greens w/cucumbers, tomatoes, Ranch
6:30PM - ChocoPerfection bar
10:30PM - 1/2 cup vanilla raspberry mousse
EXERCISE: 45 minutes elliptical
Some of you might be thinking, DANG, HE'S EATING A LOT OF FOOD! Yep, I sure am and I'm making a point. Too many of us have the mistaken notion that you have to starve yourself to lose weight. But what happens is your body starts to become deprived of the calories it does need to function and you feel awful. Low-cab living is fun and exciting with LOTS of great foods to eat.
When your way of eating becomes dull and mundane, then you will stop eating the same way. That's why you see me change up my menu week after week because it should never be a drag to eat the low-carb way. If it is, then you aren't doing it right! Mix things up and do something different if you think low-carb is boring. Clearly, it is NOT!
Any comments, questions or feedback? PLEASE SHARE! :)
Labels: 30-in-30, challenge, food, menu, weight loss
