New to forum

[Peej]

Just thought I'd come in and introduce myself. I'm 22 years old and I just started Atkins again sometime in May but only got really serious about it around May 27th so I'm keeping that as my start date. I'm definitely not new to Atkins but I am new to seeking support for it.

For me, trying to lose weight and get healthy was always something done in private. I never talked to anyone about it except for my mother who I frequently "dieted" with. I just quietly refused foods that I could not eat. It has always made me feel very embarrassed instead of empowered as it does now. Even my mother, who wanted to support me, would encourage me to cheat sometimes because it wasn't a big deal for her. Cheating, for me, is a big deal. I have to stick to it 100% or I get off track. I'm trying to convince her that its probably why she gets off track too. Maybe she'll believe me when she sees my results!

I started doing Atkins again (this time the right way) with support from a man who loves me for me regardless of my weight. He encourages me and helps me along because getting healthy is something that I want to do for myself. He never pushed me into losing weight but is there for me 110%! He is a skinny little thing who actually could stand to gain a few pounds, but he still avoids eating carb-laden foods around me. Its made me feel like its ok to get support elsewhere as well, which is why I joined up here. I think having people in the same boat as me to talk to will be a real help

I've definitely got a long way to go (I've lost about 13 pounds so far and have almost another 100 that I want to lose) but I know that this will get me there and help me maintain. I've been overweight my whole life and Atkins is the only thing that has ever worked for me. I've just never stuck with it long enough to see real results. In the past, I've always cheated a little bit and it was very hard to overcome those cravings so I'd give up. This time, going completely without cheating, I don't even have those cravings. I was able to pass up all of my favorite foods with no problem whatsoever. I'm surrounded every day by all the foods I love but cannot eat and don't even really want them. That is a truly remarkable feeling.

I love feeling in control of what I eat and don't eat. Even if I wasn't losing any weight, I'd stick with it just because those pesky cravings are gone. I've also never felt so excited to go pee on a stick before! Seeing that purple every day is reward enough for sticking to it.

Sorry for the long post; I am so happy about how different it feels this time. I'm setting myself up to succeed and getting the motivation and support that I lacked before. I know I can do it this time.

[PrissyPants]

Good Luck and I hope you stay strong and get to your goal weight.

[Tracie515]

I tried dieting for so many years and until i found this site i failed. You will love it here. I owe it all to this site for my succeeding!!!

[inhisgrip]

Welcome to the ADBB!! Thanks for sharing a little about yourself. I know it's difficult to open up about these issues sometimes. I was the same way about dieting... very private. You will find so much support and encouragment here. I'm glad you found us!! If you have 100 or more pounds to lose be sure to check out the Century Club forum. We have a daily roll call where we check in with one another and support each other along the way. Sounds like you are off to a great start and it's great that you have your husband/boyfriend?? that's so supportive! Good luck and HAPPY LOSING! I'll look forward to seeing you around the board.

[joee5]

Great attitude and best of luck. You will do fine just stay positive and focused on your goal. Keep us posted. God Bless, Joe

[Brandee]

You can do it! I am so glad I found this board. I think the support is the most important thing and I am feeling so encouraged and motivated. Good Luck!