Can someone help me? I recently started trying to lose weight for the first time. I started at 116lbs (5’1) and want to get back to my pre-pandemic weight of 103-104lbs. The first two weeks I started walking 10k-15k steps a day and restricting calories to around 1200cal/day. Third week I increased walking to 20k steps a day and was able to restrict intake to under 1000cal everyday (home cooked veg meals). The first two weeks I was able to get down to 112lbs but the number since then ....cont..

like
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at
Highlighted IconHIGHLIGHTED

Think of food as fuel and nutrients for your body versus something you need to restrict - if you’re increasing workouts, even just walking, your body is more active and needs food to power it more.. if you give it less than what it needs, it will start holding on to the scraps you give it

like

Great! I would recommend then tracking your macros if you’re not already to make sure your calories are in balance and appropriate for the amount of walking/exercise you’re doing)

like

As someone who is also petite (5’2”) I’ve found that drinking a lot of water helps with the water weight, which is the first 5 lbs anyways. I drink about a gallon a day. This helps your body let go of your water weight since you’re consistently hydrating.

I’ve cut back on refined carbs (added sugar, white flour, etc) and take a multivitamin if my calorie intake drops below 1k calories. At our height and size, the low calorie count is not as much of a concern because smaller bodies just require less fuel.

You’ve said you hate doing other workouts but science backs lifting heavy weights as the best form of exercise. Maybe try supplementing your routine with weight lifting to help you maintain muscle mass, which increases your overall metabolism.

Make sure you’re patient with yourself and stay consistent! I’ve gone from 135 lbs to 115 lbs over the past ~4 months and still trying to lose another 5-10 lbs by summer time. Good luck!

like

Thanks for the interest and glad we are all on the same journey! I’ve been doing all of the above and using a food journal.

The first month I only focused on clean eating, getting rid of refined carbs and cutting out alcohol. I’m already a pescatarian but have a big sweet tooth so that’s been hard to work through. I eat ~1000-1150 calories daily and track every bit of food incl. cooking oil, drinks, and condiments. I work a treat into my diet every week like one ice cream or an indulgent takeout meal without going over my calorie limit by more than 20%.

In terms of workouts, in the second month I started doing 30-40 mins of weights and HIIT at home 3-4 times a week. If you’re not familiar, I’d suggest using workouts by Chloe Ting or Kayla Itsines as starting points. I also try to get in at least 5-8k steps everyday. I don’t leave the house much these days so this is attainable for me.

Overall, diet and consistency are really the main drivers for my weight loss. Having a plan and sticking to it are the most important things. I hit plateaus often (after first 10 lbs) and used to give up but this time I’ve stayed committed despite not seeing the scale go down and that’s how I lost my next 10 lbs from 125 to 115 today.

I’m still continuing on my weight loss journey but have found all these things to work best for me. Every body is different so take what works for you and leave the rest. Also remember to go easy on your body if you’re frustrated and forgive yourself when you slip up. This is why I love to work in treats so that I don’t feel like I’m depriving myself.

like
Recent IconRecent

OP, firstly, you're eating really little!! Please make sure you don't starve yourself, I've gone that route and it does not end well.

To your point, it sounds like it's been a week since it stopped dropping? Weight loss is not consistent (as in the number on the scale doesn't steadily drop). There are so many other factors besides fat loss that affect the scale. Water weight like bloating, your period, etc.

It's best not to let this deter you and look more over the further long term.

like

This!! You are not eating enough food! You are being more active and eating less. Plus I know you hate working out but it really would probably help you a lot

like

Don’t weigh yourself every day; fluctuations are normal. Don’t go below 1200 Cal a day and be patient. Below 1000 needs monitoring by healthcare professional

like

U need throw in a high calorie day every once in awhile so ur body doesn't think its going thru a famine. High calorie doesn't mean go eat a ton of donuts. Eat 2500-3000 and u will see the weight go down. I do this when i see my weightloss plateau. I'll go eat a huge steak and the next day im still the same weight, then a week later I'll see the number go down.

like

I am about your size. I do as much low carb as possible - avoid breads, rice, potatoes, etc - but don’t restrict otherwise. Same goes for sugar. I call it “keto light”. That said, I definitely will have my pizza/pasta/dessert days. I will recommend exercising a bit more. There are so many lower impact options if you say you don’t like to work out. Workouts such as barre, yoga, solidcore - in addition to the walking - could be great for you. It’s unlikely that you’ll tone up just by walking without any sort of exercise.

like

You might be generating muscle - weight is less important, did you measure inches of your waist, thighs etc?

Focus on how you feel 🤗 congrats on making this lifestyle change !

like

1/2 inch in a month is not bad at all :)

I agree with others that you should track your calories out, as well as in - ensure you are not going below 1200 (not healthy for your heart!)

Understand you don’t like exercise but that is the safe and healthy way to do things. Try Kayla Itsine’s BBG - it starts really basic and you can do it at home.

Rather than focus on the fat pockets, focus on how you feel and the concept of healthy lifestyle

like

Anything under 1400 calories a day is dangerously low for an adult. You are damaging your metabolism by under-eating which will cause you to have a “skinny fat” look over time (not toned and I doubt your stomach will slim since it’ll want to hold onto all fo the fat on your body). Look up Bodies By Rachel on insta and look at some of their posts. Not trying to sell the workout/ diet programs, but the BBR community has helped my relationship with food and exercise so much over the past year and I’ve met women from around the world who have similar mindsets that are great support. Not to mention I look the best I have in my entire life and I’m almost 26.

like

I eat a homemade vegetarian diet as well. I find the lentils, kidney beans etc. are not enough protein. I add a protein smoothie everyday to meet the required amount. Protein helps rebuild muscle which in turn improves metabolism. Metabolism naturally declines as we age and it essentially means we gain the pounds faster than we lose them. Two years ago (at 29) I started increasing about a half pound every month with absolutely no change in my lifestyle. Packed on 20lbs but was able to catch a thyroid issue and a vitamin D deficiency. It points to the lack of healthy fats in my diet as well. Homemade vegetarian diets tend to be high on carbs and low on fibre, proteins and healthy fats if not deliberately designed to be balanced. Supplements also help. A daily multivitamin is great to add in! I’m now back to my normal weight pre my hypothyroid diagnosis. But it took a good 1.5 years.

like

i would recommend calories in calories out which
means if you walk more/as much as you do now, you do need to eat more, even if your goal is weight loss. your goal should be to feel satiated at your calorie count, not remain hungry and uncomfortable. even when you use calorie counting apps, they increase your calorie budget with exercise+steps. try to figure your target calorie count for weight loss and stay around that amount. i weigh like 20 pounds more than you, want to lose 10, and my target is 1370 but increases with steps+exercise.

like

Weight train!

like

Don’t restrict calories to under 1200/day. You’re putting your body into starvation mode. High-quality, lean protein, lots of non-starchy veggies, small amounts of high-fiber complex carbs, and small amounts of healthy fats around 1200-1300 calories per day, along with strength training and some cardio most days of the week will get you where you want to be...but keep in mind that 115 at 5’1” is a healthy weight!!

like

unfortunately, it’s really hard to spot reduce fat. some ppl are genetically pre-disposed to put on fat in particular areas first (could be thighs, back, stomach etc). i’ve had the most success shaving fat off through HIIT workouts and resistance training, but it can be whatever “calorie out” method you prefer with the amount of time/energy you’re willing to expend

like

Also be aware that depending on your age, it may just be natural weight gain! I've gained 20lbs since graduating two years ago and I'm the healthiest I've ever been.
My personal tips: don't bother with counting calories, as long as you're cooking fresh and at home, eat as much as your body needs! Sometimes that's more than usual, sometimes that's less, but I've found this is easier than constantly tracking numbers. Weight fluctuation is totally normal! Switch your weigh-ins to once a week, that way it's harder to worry about your normal daily fluctuations. I know you're not a fan of workouts, but if you can incorporate a little bit of weights, or one hour of yoga a day, that will do wonders for your core!

like

Yeah, I am finding it much easier to put on weight now (at 29) than when I was 25. Back then I could eat all I want and still be slim.

like

Try to eat every 2-3 hours. That’s 3 meals and 2 snacks. Make them light and monitor the amount of carb and proteins each meal. Hummus. Oatmeal. Half a cup of rice and half. Cup of protein. Carte Blanche with veggies. I’m also your height. Don’t eat under 800 a day. Eat around 1400 and make it sustainable to do for at least 8 weeks.

like

And it’s not the weight I mind but more the fistfuls of fat I can grab in my tummy area or not being able to fit into my old clothes anymore.

like

Your body is holding onto all the fat it can because you’re not eating enough. Please do some research on this or talk to a professional.

like

To everyone saying don’t starve yourself- I am really not! I love food and I have been always more guilty of gluttony than anything else. It’s just that I have switched to homemade food where I don’t deep fry stuff and having a side salad with every meal along with portion control. I definitely eat if I feel hungry but I am not feeling hungry. Also, I am really small and we don’t need as many calories as taller people.

like

OP, when you start eating less, your body goes into energy saving mode and your metabolic rate drops too and so you don't feel hungry anymore. You kinda have to start eating more of the right stuff to kickstart your metabolism so you burn more calories

like

Keeps consistently going back up(0.5lbs/day, 1lb/day, etc). These changes are small but they are adding up. What am I doing wrong? I don’t do any other kinds of workout (I really hate them).

Related Posts

Hi Fishes , can anyone refer me in EY GDS for this Job requisition ID 1178143 ?

like

I'm a partner at a mid-size firm, considering an opportunity to move in house at an early stage private equity firm. Beyond economics, how would you evaluate this opportunity?

likehelpful

How much does PwC Canada pay towards employee phones/phone plans?

Hi Guys,
Broadcomm offered me Principal Engineer position, how much CTC I can ask them. Please suggest
CCTC: 21 LPA
YOE: 10+

What will be my In-hand salary after utilizing 80C,80CCD, 80D? Suggestions are welcome to restructure the salary to lower the tax payable. Accenture

Post Photo
like

How much do you have in emergency fund? I’m not talking total assets / fund. But liquid (like cash). I recall the magic number was 8 months but that seems to be a lot just sitting around in a savings account getting 0.5 interest

like

Anyone know any great market research agency that would be a good fit for a smaller brand?

What are some things you’d tell your younger self? I’m approaching 26 and constantly wondering if my early 20s were well spent.

like

What is the eligibility for getting appraisal in fidelity ? Is there anything like you must join on or before certain month to be eligible for that? I joined in September beginning and appraisal year ends here in October. Though I am not very hopeful but just wanted to check if anyone is aware of the eligibility.

What do you think:

Teachers should/should not discuss their opinions and ideas around sexuality, gender, and religion with students.

Any Dallas M 🐠 to hang out and show me around?

Thoughts on Fundamental Media?

likefunny

Does anyone have any suggestions for essential elements to include in a product marketing portfolio?

like

Hi Fishes
Just want some career advice
Is it possible to get into tech industry as analyst after having 3 yrs experience in sales.
I am looking for a career change, had done BCA in graduation. But due to some circumstances has to leave tech industry before and got into sales, but now again want to join.
Pls advise how to approach companies to start again as a beginner??

like

Just placing this piece of gold here so you guys don’t miss it.. screenshots in 3 parts in the comments

Post Photo
like

Any recommended readings for someone going from M&D audit to small firm government and not-for-profit audit? Only exposure was one class 5 years ago. Thx!

like

Dear Product Designers, what are some professional goals you’ve set for yourself? Company leadership is looking for quantitative and qualitative goals to aim for before EOY. Thoughts?

like

Starting natural IUI this cycle. Been TTC with 7 months with no success. Any success stories with natural IUI? How many tries did it take? Also is the procedure painful ? Any tips from people who have gone through in the past will be helpful .

like

Break even for $2. Well worth the pour!

Post Photo
like

Additional Posts in Women In Consulting

I'm so tired of working on the weekend, missing drop off, pickup, bedtime, and activities while I tell prospective hires we have great WLB and people on the team that it'll get better.

likesmart

Hi Ladies! Does anyone have a recommendation for a good PCP? Thanks in advance!

like

Any self help books for women who don’t have good relationships (and possibly are depressed and jaded)? Maybe something for courage to lead a life without depending on others

like

Girls with big boobs-do you use sticky boobs and if so which brand? I have 34 DDD and am skeptical that they could actually work but it would be amazing if they did lol

like

Ladies would you purchase a home with a boyfriend or would you rather get married first?

like

At Accenture changing from internal analyst role to a senior analyst in digital & client facing.I am always worried about being a female and salary. What should I negotiate and expect for pay?

like

I hate to say this but being single & recently unlucky in love has made me so miserable. All I can focus on is how I’m in my late 20s without a partner & behind in life

Objectively, I know I have a good job & have lots of friends & social plans. But not having a partner has made me unhappy and anxious. I worry I’ll never find someone. All of my best friends are cuffed and are with their SOs. Anyone have advice to overcome?

like

Have any of you ladies managed to get over an ex after being hung up on them for years? My ex and I broke up two years ago but I still think about him every day. We live in different countries and he’s now married - I’ve tried multiple therapists, changing cities, traveling loads, throwing myself into work, dating, self help books, you name it. While the pain has become much more bearable, it’s never gone away. Will it ever?

like

Best way to get over a guy who doesn’t want a relationship but wants to stay “friends” ??

like

Watching the Indian Matchmaking on Netflix. Every other minute a guy or his parents are asking for "fair skin." 🤦
PS: I am not Indian and really don't want to offend anyone, but I think this is not a positive messaging for young girls.

like

really interested in this guy and he’s into me as well. however he got out of a serious relationship back in february and has her all over his insta. I think it’s weird he hasn’t deleted the pics cont

Laser hair removal or waxing? Tired of getting monthly Brazilians

like

I need advice. I come from a tech background and been in a rut. I love tech but I feel like haven't done any constructive in my life in terms of career. ctd

like

Ladies, I have a townhouse that I'd like to rent out furnished. I'm looking to do long term, but having trouble finding a property management company that will do this (they all say unfurnished). I would like to find someone to manage it for me as I will be out of state. Anyone here rent out properties and have any suggestions on how to go about it or recommendations of property management companies? I'm in Colorado if that helps. Thank you!

like

Anyone ever felt GOOD leaving a good team? Seeking ideas/advice for sendoff support. Great employee is leaving my team for a new opportunity… Bummer for us but happy for her, don’t want to be blah about it. (That said we were not super close!)

like

Colorado has a salary transparency law that forces employees to put salary ranges in the job posting. Every state needs to have that instead of just talking about wage inequality.

like

Whenever I give my mum updates on my life be it career or when my husband engaged she always has a variation of one question “ Does your job make you happy?” “Does he make you happy?” I am an immigrant from Africa and this always surprises me as I am always prepared to answer 1000 hot seat type questions. I hope to one day take a similar approach when I have adult kids.

likeupliftinghelpful

How do you get over the fear of staying alone? I’m 28, have self sabotaged my past two relationships and just starting to realize i have to do the inner work. Feeling like it’s a little late, and scared to stay alone and fully let go of my last person because of this. Tips?

like

How you deal with managers who want to constantly micro manage? I feel like this attitude is only towards me ( only woman in the team ) As much as I try to build the trust and deliver high cont'd.

like

What’s a good way to get your personal data scrubbed off the internet?

like

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Send download link to your phone

OR

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Messaging rates may apply

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal