my optifast journey

Jenn's Food addiction

Jenn's Food Addiction. Optifast, Dieting advice, Fitness and exersize

My mini mental breakdown

So I haven't posted in a while. Week 3 and 4 were the hardest time I have had lately. I was depressed, angry, crying, and completely felt like I could not do this. There were several planned activities eating out with friends. The first time I did good. Took my shake, had beef broth with me, and did well avoiding their "devil's food". I made light of it by taking pictures of what I couldn't have. 

WARNING! DON'T LOOK IF YOU DON'T WANT TO GET HUNGRY!

Then it all feel apart. I think that during the first two weeks, I was riding the high. Feeling good because I was doing something good for myself, and feeling really optimistic. Well, then because of changes at work, stress with the diet, and some depression, I hit bottom, I won't say rock bottom, but I was sinking. I contacted the weight loss center and messaged the Nurse Practitioner I had seen. She was great. We adjusted some meds and I started on an anti-depressant. Now it takes a lot of courage for me to admit this. I have always fought to "be normal", not go on meds, and be able to handle things on my own. But, I needed help. Plus, she told me it would help with the food cravings. And Lord knows, I was having cravings! Of course, I gave in. 
Now during this two weeks I did manage to make myself go to the gym. I started with 30 minutes of cardio and some strength training. I have in the past three weeks worked up to an hour of cardio at least three times a week, and strength training twice a week. I really think this is the only thing that helped me maintain my weight during the hardest two weeks. So I definitely want to keep it up! 

I have lost another 4 lbs since getting back on the program for another week. I am starting week 6 now and feeling better with the antidepressant. I am smiling and can see things a little more clearly now. 

My advice for optifast. 

• Don't beat yourself up! There will be slip-ups.  This is a complete lifestyle change for most people. It is breaking bad habits and making good habits. It doesn't happen overnight. Take it one day at a time and one meal at a time. 
• Don't give up. If you mess up, get up and start over. 
• Talk to your provider. Stay in communication with the doctor or NP at your weight loss center. They CAN and WILL help you!
• Plan. Keep your shakes with you. Don't leave home without one or two. Just in case you get caught out longer than you think. 
• Go to the gym or keep moving! It will help. Increase your steps, dance, ride a bike, but keep moving!

Tell me what challenges you have faced!