The light at the end of the tunnel I'm too chubby to fit through

[chubby&desparate]

I have been doing Atkins on and off for the last few years, I know it's the best approach to losing weight for me, but I get these nasty cravings and end up caving (almost always for Mcdonalds french fries ) so I have no idea what # attempt this is, but I am determined that this be "the one". I have been doing this for about 8 days and have already lost about 17 lbs. I don't know why I lose weight so well but I do. I have no excuse for being overweight, but I can't seem to fight the binging and craving. The thing is, I am so busy as a mother of three working part time with two of my kids in different schools that finish at varying times not to mention after school activities and whatever else comes up, I don't have time to make these gourmet meals. I pretty much live off those grocery store rotisserie chickens and a tomato slice now and again. I had a spoon of peanut butter for lunch as I ran out the door today. I feel ill, I have spasm's in my legs and my throat is killing me. I'm tired all the time, and crabby because I hate that I have put myself in this predicament where I'm so overweight that I am this desparate to lose it. I am miserable. I would like to achieve this without the misery and leg spasms. (but if that's the only way, I'll do it anyway spasms and all). How did you all conquer the crabbyness, leg pains, sore throat etc...?? Fill me in! I know magnesium and calcium are supposed to help with muscle cramping...
I want to be thin! I want to not be embarassed to eat out with my friends, they are all so tall and thin and lovely, I feel like an old toad with them. I'm only 40 lbs from my goal weight, I know I can do it, I just need the will.
thanks for listening to the lamenting of one who is chubby&desparate hope you're all in better spirits

[bradybunch]

Weclome to ADBB Chubby, you won't have that title for long if you stick with us. Everytime you have a sinking spell and a craving comes over you, get your rear in gear and sign on to ADBB and read and post. This board keeps so many accountable. I know of a few times when I was ready to give in and I would come here and read a motivating and inspirational story. My outlook for caving in soon changed. You can do it. This is your time to roar to the goal line. good luck dear.

[chubby&desparate]

thanks I am pretty determined so I am in for the long haul, whatever it takes. Your encouragement helps though.

[kelly50]

Hi, Chubby and welcome. This board is full of supportive and knowledgeable Atkins people who are here to help you reach your goal. Losing weight and changing our lifestyle is not easy but we are all in this together and are here to support, cheer each success, and push one another to be healthier! Join in, read the book and stickies, and post often. Look forward to seeing you around the board.

[sillygirl]

Good morning Chubby! I agree with Brady, one day in your future you are going to have to change your screen name! You've made a great decision coming to this board for support during your Atkins adventure. There is a wealth of information on the board, not to mention so many great people that can help you along the way.

Nothing wrong with the grocery store chickens, I always have one on hand for snacking on because it's so very handy! Your loss so far is terrific, you can do this! Post often, and give a shout out if you need any guidance!

[Prya]

It's great to have you here chubby! One of the best parts about Atkins is that the meals don't have to be gourmet--a chicken from the grocery store and salad (which you can put together from the salad bar there too) make a great substitute for fast food if you're busy and tired. And remember, frozen and canned veggies are your friends too, and require so little time to prepare.

[dreamof145]

Congratulations on the 17 pound loss. Great job. Dr. Atkins understood the eating habits of most people and his weight loss plan is designed to help curb those cravings. The first two weeks help to reduce the cravings. As you see the inches and weight falling, you feel better, look better, have increased energy and that encouages you to keep going. Things that help the frustration that you've described is to get active with others who are doing the program, make friends, exercise and focus on positive life-style changes. I had 140 pounds to lose when I began and I remember feeling ashamed and mad at myself...plus mad at just about everyone. But, it helps to boost your attitude, educate yourself and make a plan to succeed...and record the inches you drop every few weeks. Thats a great way to motivate yourself.

As for the leg cramps, drinking more water, potassium,magnesium,calcium and exercise helps to eliminate them. So happy you've joined us. The support and encouragement you get here is fantastic. We care about you and want to see you succeed. Keep us posted on your progress. You can do it.

[Discolemonade]

Welcome home!

I have restarted so many times I can't count. But when I get serious about it, my whole life changes. Atkins has changed my life and it can change yours. I was the toad in the crowd once too. I think you should challenge yourself to stay away from McDonalds period, for like 3 months. Even being in there for your kids is hard but until you can trust yourself enough not to eat those fries, you don't need to go there. Don't drive yourself into a cheat.

[sallyseachange]

Hi there Chubby and warm welcome to you! Glad you're here with us. We'll help you get to the other end of that tunnel, and you'll fit through it with yards to spare either side!!

Stick with the plan, eat the Atkins way to a "T" and it'll continue to work well for you. Remember your veggies, exercise, water ++ and supplements. It all gets easier as you go along, truly!

Happy losing!

[chubby&desparate]

Hey all! So happy to meet you! It's funny, as I was perusing the website yesterday I read posts from most of you so there are a lot of familiar faces. I bought some calcium/magnesium today so hopefully that's buhbye to the leg cramps it's kinda hard to exercise when the exhertion of pressing the gas pedal gives you charlie horses all up your leg. You know what else is funny? I work in Tim Hortons (canadian donut/coffee shop) and I havent' cheated once! I'm surprised at myself. You guys are all beacons of light, I wish my friends had a support group like this, the ones who are heavy have all given up. Anyhow, rock on, talk to you soon!