Calling All Senior 5:2's

This topic contains 143 replies, has 14 voices, and was last updated by Deerhunter 10 years, 4 months ago.

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Gilgil

11:04 am
27 Apr 14
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We are 68 & 71 respectively and yesterday completed Fast Day 1. We both have medical problems, me with raised blood pressure, coronary artery disease (stented 1998) diabetes Type 2 on Metformin 3 times daily, asthma (on pumps) & my husband with raised blood pressure, enlarged heart & Barrett’s Oesophagus with high grade dysplasia. Not a healthy couple, especially with obesity problems too, me more than my husband! We are both committed to changing our lives, ( even at this quite late stage ), losing weight and becoming healthier, and this regime seems to provide the answer for us.

What we hope is that others of similar weights, health conditions and ages etc will stay in contact with us so we can compare notes and support each other through this life change. We are still working through the various forums and hope to find more information in the ones that particularly address our issues.

Hears hoping and thanks to all you silver fasters.

mamaglee

4:52 am
28 Apr 14
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Hello Gilgil, I am 62+, just got off BP medication at the suggestion of my doctor after finding a good herbal remedy. I am overweight, have high markers for cardio-vascular issues, cancer survivor, Crohn’s disease, inflammation, adrenal fatigue, obese. I’m with you. I did my first fast yesterday. I see you posted this morning. I’m curious about your progress. Have you started your first fast? My doctor suggested I do this. Good luck to us all and thanks for starting this topic. Cheers, Marcia in California.

Deerhunter

8:24 am
28 Apr 14
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Hi there.
I’m 63 and my husband is 67. I’ve got high cholesterol and my husband has high blood pressure . Both of us are overweight and his doctor suggested the 5.2 diet. That was 14 weeks ago. I’ve got to say my husband wasn’t real impreesed with that as he hates diets and exercise. So I found out all about it and away we went. The first few weeks were hard,more so for him as he does like to wander into the pantry for ‘little snacks’ l but,I’m pleased to report that both of us have lost some weight,not drastic but, enough to keep you motivated. It defiantly is a change of lifestyle. It’s been such an improvement for my husbands blood pressure that the doctor has reduced his medication. As for my cholesterol, I’ll have to wait for my next blood test.
Would be interested to know what the herbal remedy was for blood pressure. It would be good if the medication could stop .
We’ve managed to stick to the 2 days a week although a couple of weeks we’ve only done one day but with this way of earting you can catchup the following weeks.
Along with some regular exercise it’s the best diet I’ve ever been on.. My husband does it with my encouragement but,even he has to admit that he’s feeling good.
So good luck to you all
From ‘Downunder’

Gilgil

9:42 am
28 Apr 14
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Hi Mamaglee,

Well done you on getting off B/P meds. Can’t help you about herbal remedy, but do know that losing weight is key to reducing blood pressure. We are both on meds for this and don’t know if we will ever be considered for removing them, but hey ho, we are on the pathway to changes now, so who knows????

Gilgil

10:04 am
28 Apr 14
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Hi there Deerhunter, nice to hear from you. Being new to this, we are enthusiastic of course but I really want to be realistic too. I need to shed about 45-50 lbs, himself needs probably 20 lbs. He has much better will power that me and is a bit fitter too, although he has to replace food calories on fast days to allow for his 2 doubles of Scotch which I think is crazy. How much exercise do you do and what type? Do you stick to the 2000 cals on non fast days ‘cos I’ve checked my TDEE and find I should only have about 1600 and therefore my fast days should be about 400!!

I felt good on Day 1 fast, in fact much better than the following day when I felt toxic and tired so wonder if this is common. Would love some help. Regards

Deerhunter

10:34 pm
28 Apr 14
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Hello Gilgil
I converted your lbs to kilos and it’s about the weight that I want to loose (23 kgs). It’s taken a long time to get to that stage therefore it’ll take some time to get it off. Yes. The first weeks were a bit tuff and some mornings after fast days I felt a bit worse for wear.but,it does get better. As for exercise we’ve got a treadmill which was mainly used by me until this 5.2 diet and now MM uses it about every second day. I try to use it most days about 30-40mins each session. As well as that I do about 40-60 step ups. I’ve got a nice big step on our verandah and makes for a good work out..Other than that just a good 30 min walk would help. I don’t think my weight loss of 7kgs in 14 weeks is all to do with the diet but,along with the exercise it’s helping things.its certainly good when there is someone else to encourage you my husband reckons if it wasn’t for me doing the diet with him he wouldn’t have even given it a go. So we wives have our uses don’t we?
Not sure about the scotch. I know they say to try and avoid alcohol on fast days. Still I guess it’s what gets you through and we are all different.
On non fast days I try to stick to the TDEE total but on fast days I do the 500. I think to cut it down to 400 is a bit much especially in the early weeks. So just take it easy and let us know how you go.Remember slow and steady.

Purple Vegie Eater

11:03 pm
28 Apr 14
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We are in our 60s. Both had gradually increased until we were obese (technically). We started the Fast Diet one year ago and have been quite strict about our calorie counts on fast days. Also found we naturally stopped snacking on normal days.
I have lost 26kg. He has lost 36kg. As Michael’s Fast Exercise book indicates, exercise is for toning the body (something you just start doing when you are light enough to run upstairs), but will not lose weight for you. You need to drop the kilos first. The exercise comes naturally and won’t injure knees and hips as it does when you are heavy. I can run up two stairs at a time at the railway station now…like a teenager!
Our weight dropped consistently 1kg a week for the first 10kg then slowed. The last few have taken forever to lose, but as long as I didn’t gain and was gradually coursing downwards it was ok.
My husband’s Type 2 diabetes is now controlled by one or two tablets and is very steady. He had been injecting daily increasing amounts of insulin and, consequently, gaining weight. A slippery slope!
We have now both reached our goal weight (1year) but realise we will always need to continue two day fasts and careful thinking about food choices. There is no way I’m not going to keep fitting into my new size 9 jeans!!

Gilgil

7:28 am
29 Apr 14
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Thank you so much for this inspirational post.

It has totally uplifted me as I start my day 2 fast and given me so much encouragement for the future. I never dreamt of being able to exercise but you give me hope and I will get the Fast Exercise book immediately. I know it will be a slog, but with many health issues for both of us it will be joyous to take this journey together and achieve to the level you have.

We are young enough to really enjoy life and our lovely family for a long time to come, so thank you for your factual info. Just read this to himself who actually smiled and said it was very encouraging (he’s a willing partner in this venture, but not a smiley man) and I see that he believes now!

Thank you again. Watch my posts for progress!!

Gilgil

7:45 am
29 Apr 14
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Hi Deerhunter,
Hello Down Under,

Yes there are similarities with weight etc but you are exercising and I have that to come! I kept the cals down yesterday even though a non fast day and felt much better than the first day after the fast. My body is telling me something!! Himself is doing well and in time might consider the advantages of eliminating his night caps. As you say, it’s his choice.

I’ve bought new scales with BMI measuring etc so I really am going for it. Can’t wait for delivery.

Today is Fast Day 2 and we are both very positive and since the posting from Purple Vegie Eater, very enthused. I knew that the key would be finding others in a similar position. Experiences and know how set the stage for action. I’m starting a walk, a bit of a bop and some steps off the first step of our stairs today. Little and often wil be the way forward for me. Keep up your good work and thank you so much for staying in touch.

Gilgil.

Deerhunter

9:48 am
29 Apr 14
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Hi Purple Vegie Eater
Congrats on getting to your goal weight. A lot of people say it takes about a year so I hope that’s the case with me and my MM. As you say it’s a slow and steady pace. Glad you feel like a ‘teenager’ at times running up those stairs and fitting into those size 9 jeans. I can only dream!!!!
Take care
Keep up the good work

Deerhunter

10:06 am
29 Apr 14
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Hello Gilgil
You really sound like you’re getting into the mind set and that’s great. What brand of scales are you buying?
I’m thinking of getting some new ones myself that read BMI etc.
Don’t be disheartened if your weight plateaus at times or even goes up a little, as my husbands has this week( 1/2 kilo). It seems to be part of the process. The thing that really tells is if your shape changes and your clothes feel a bit looser.
It’s good to know that there are other people going through the same thing even those we might be thousands of miles apart.
Bye for now

Gilgil

12:48 pm
29 Apr 14
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Salter 9141 WH3R Glass Body Fat Analyser Bathroom Scale

Bought these from Amazon, awaiting delivery so unknown performance but rated ****/*****by reviewers. The price was excellent, with £20 discounted bring them to £14.99, but today noticed they are £12.49 so I feel diddled.

I do feel very mentally enabled about this, although at present I am looking for weight loss over and above everything. Can’t wait to wear small jeans! Actually, small anything! I’m a size 20 just now, don’t know what that would be down under, but it’s big, although not as bad as some I’ve seen.

Keep 5:2’ing, post soon.

Deerhunter

10:43 pm
29 Apr 14
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Hi Gilgil

You’ll have to let us know what the new scales are like.

Isn’t it the way when you buy something then a few weeks later it’s discounted. I know of people who have taken things back to the store for a refund then buy it at the discounted price. I couldn’t be bothered especially if it was only a small amount different.
Hope the rest of the week goes well for you. Our 2nd fasting day is tomorrow ( Thurs ) MM calls it the ‘starvation’ day. I think I’ll have to put a lock on the pantry to stop him getting tempted.

Happy fasting!!

Purple Vegie Eater

6:06 am
30 Apr 14
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The scales are an excellent idea. I bought some of those and regularly look at the calculation on daily calorie needs (then quarter it) for fast days. It amazes me how little food I should eat now that I am lighter. I weigh myself several times every day and record the lowest weight weekly. It is interesting how much your weight varies, but by recording it I can follow the downward trend. Good for keeping the spirits up!
We find it interesting how our idea of how people should look has changed. We now understand that lovely shoulder definition comes with the layer of fat removed from shoulders and neck. The legs develop into legs not stumps and the face thins down to be almost bony to the touch. Initially people tell you you have lost too much weight, but as the months go by your face no longer looks gaunt and develops a young (relatively) freshness and healthy colour. We both feel very proud of our new looks.
We recently went to an agricultural show and both commented how obese most people were and how much fast food (the bad sort) was available everywhere. When we were young this was not the case. It seemed all around us were fat families stuffing their faces with inappropriate food choices as if they would die without eating all the time. Quite eye opening.
Keep the end goal in sight….a beautiful new body, the ease of buying lovely new clothes straight off the peg and a healthier future. As a thin friend of mine says, the hunger pangs are simply your body eating up fat! I like it.

Gilgil

8:48 am
1 May 14
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Hello Deerhunter,

Hope your fast day went well and MM stayed away from the naughty cupboard! We are doing quite well, having done the second fast day and nearing then end of the first week. Himself has developed a bit of IBS which he blames on the salads and vegetables which he has trouble chewing ( blast those denture! ) and I am riding my own sometimes rough wave, but getting there without being too discouraged. You guys help a lot.

The scales have arrived and look super, so an asset to the bathroom. Found the instructions a bit difficult as all the setting is done on the scale which of course is on the floor and my eyesight ain’t great, but got there in the end. We actually have two as we use different bathrooms and needed one for hard floor and one for carpet but felt this would be a useful luxury. Very disappointed that the weight in my old scales (not BMI ones) was more gratifying but what the heck, I am what I am! At least once they are up and running they will record my remarkable (I hope) losses every week.

Didn’t have a good day yesterday as we had a belated Christmas present Wine Tasting with my daughter and son in law, followed by a late home made Indian meal which was gorgeous but not calorie observant. Going to catch up a bit today I hope with careful eating and my 7 year granddaughter is coming to stay overnight so I’ll be plenty active until tomorrow. Didn’t mention the wine tasting! 10 wines, white red and one rose. Very nice. Bought a shared case of 12 with the kids which cost more than we spend in two months!!! But it was fun and we all need that.

Hope your losses this week are good. Be in touch soon. Gilgil.

Gilgil

9:01 am
1 May 14
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I continue to be so encouraged by everything you say Purple Vegie Eater. It’s so good to have you on board having made the journey already and I love hearing how I am going to look by next year.

I do have one worry though, probably common to all seniors who have a lot if weight to lose. Where does the skin go after the fat has gone. I’m serious because I look at my arms and face every day and lament my collagen loss, and frankly I’m terrified of what is to be after I lose all my weight. I expect to be using helpful underwear support and after all, clothes cover a lot if sins, but will I ever be able to wear a swimsuit. I’m trying to be philosophical, as the weight loss and health changes are more important than anything, but the female, vain element also wants a say. I’m hoping you have a story to tell, or maybe you are the lucky one without these concerns!

Agree with all you say about eating today and the general level if obesity, especially in young people. We weren’t always this size and can’t relate to the love of junk food at all. Our sins are good food and wines but too much of them!! And if course, not enough exercise since retiring.

I’m going to weigh weekly I think, with sneaky little checks in between! Sound like a plan for staying on course and I love your friends ideas about hunger pains.

Right oh, off the do a bop to get those calories burning. Speak soon. Gilgil

Gilgil

8:10 am
3 May 14
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Hello Marcia,

How did you do on your first week? We have just completed our first week but don’t know how we’ve done weight loss wise as we changed scales mid week and there were differences, in my case that the new readings were higher than the original. Not going to worry about that though at present as I’m more concerned with a breakdown of commitment on non fast days at the end of the week, when I binged, badly.

I feel there have been quite a lot of ups and downs and am interested in everyone’s experiences regarding this. It seems so early on to get this way, especially as I was so swept away with enthusiasm only a few days ago!!!

NOT going to give up though, just take a deep breath, pick myself up and start all over again!

Please tell me how you are doing, and anyone else out there too who have been following this thread.

Gilgil

Deerhunter

9:36 am
3 May 14
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Hello Gilgil
Sorry to hear you had a little ‘ bing cay’. I wouldn’t worry too much there is always next week. And I’m sure you will settle into a routine as the weeks go by. How did your hubby go?. I don’t think we’ve lost any weight this week as both of us have had colds which drags you down a bit.And I be been avoiding the treadmill which I just can’t face when I’m sick. We’ll see on Mon, which is weigh in day. Hopefully I’m feeling a bit better by then
The trouble with scales is they tell ‘lies’ at times. I know MM can get on our scales before he goes to his doctor and when he’s weighed at the surgery on the exact same brand of scales, he’s different . Usually higher. So go figure.

Don’t give up as it will get easier and if you ‘fall off the wagon’ sometimes you can get back on the following week .

So good fasting for next week.
Cheers

Gilgil

7:06 am
5 May 14
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Hi Deerhunter,

Hope those colds are better. Do you ‘feed a cold, starve a fever’ ‘cos on this regime, that would be murder!! Anyway, here’s hoping your good behaviour gives rewards.

Having a tricky week this week so fasting today (Monday) and then Thursday, to accommodate away days and next weekend. Himself is embroiled in bad IBS so has opted out today and I’m going it alone. In fairness, he has great will power and won’t snack so he’ll keep his calories down anyway, something I never do!

Did a pile of gardening yesterday which I deemed my exercise for the day and plan on more today. Am finding exercise a bit difficult due to my size but hope it will get easier when the weight drops.

Happy weigh in!

Deerhunter

9:47 am
6 May 14
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Hi Gilgil
Well I’m slowly getting over my miserable cold. And you are right about the fast day if you’re not well it’s a bit rough. Although with my appetite not very good I guess that wasn’t so bad. Our fast days are usually Mon and Thurs which leaves the weekend free. I’ve been doing a little exercise on the treadmill but only for about 15-20 mins. Just enough to keep me going as I’m not up to longer sessions at the moment.

On our weigh in on Mon I’d dropped 1kg to 79.5 and MM dropped .5 kg. to 91.5. So we are happy with that. There are some weeks when we plateau but it’s part of the process. I’ve passed my first goal which was 80 but I hope to get down to 75 kg if possible. I don’t think I’ll ever get to the weight I was when I was in my 30s ( 65-67 kg ) but who knows.
Meanwhile we’ll carry on regardless and hopefully stick to the diet or as they say it’s a ‘way of eating’. And if you get other benefits along the way then it’s a good thing.

I know how your hubby feels with the IBS as I’ve had bouts of that in the past and it’s not the best. Wish him well from me.
Have a good week and good luck with the fasting. I’m just off to have a small piece of yummy chocolate. Well it is a non fast day!!!

Deerhunter

9:55 am
6 May 14
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Hi Gilgil
Forgot to tell you that I made Curried Carrot Soup the other day and we had that on our Mon fast day evening meal only 85 cals. Very tasty if you like a little a little spice. I got this from one of the other topics on the forum.

http://www.lavenderandlovage.com/2013/03/weekly-meal-plan-52-diet-recipes-and-curried-carrot-soup-85-calories.html

Gilgil

6:12 pm
6 May 14
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Dear Deerhunter,

Well done you for achieving your loss and passing that goal. I’m envious but back on track and encouraged by our chats. Glad the cold is on the mend and interested that you lose your appetite at these times. I guess I do too but seem to eat lots to unclog the nose! Lucky I don’t get them often.

We are away on an overnight today, looking around Wisley, the Royal Horticultural Society show garden. Lovely. Had afternoon tea, English style, cake tier, with dainty sandwiches, scones and cream, cakes. …… I did a great fast yesterday thank heavens. Dinner in our hotel next, need I say more. I did mention this week would be tricky but I love the carrot soup recipe and will get with calorie reduction and fasting when we get home. That lady seem to have some nice recipes, I’ll explore more when I get home.

All the best for the Thursday fast, I’m doing mine then too to fit it before going off for the weekend and I’ll be thinking about you.

Gilgil

Deerhunter

9:13 am
11 May 14
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Hi Gilgi
Hope your weekend has gone well. Yesterday we went to my Great Nieces naming day and afterwards we had afternoon high tea.!!!! So I had to try a little bit of everything didn’t I?. The date scones with jam and cream were so yummy. Just as well it’s fast day tomorrow so my tummy can have a break from the naughty food.
Pleased to say I am feeling much better today and hopefully tomorrow will go OK. I wore a pair of pants yesterday that I haven’t been able to fit into for 5 years . So I felt quite good . And MMs good pants are now loose on him. Still a long way to go but,encouraging signs. Weigh in day tomorrow so we’ll see what damage the ‘High Tea’ had.
Good luck this week. Happy fasting.

Gilgil

5:11 pm
13 May 14
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Thanks for the good wishes Deerhunter. I note that life has been a bit tempting for you too! But as we say….. Tomorrow is another day, perhaps even a fast day! Had a lovely reunion over weekend, with girls who started nursing with me 50 years ago. I wasn’t too immoderate, but when away isn’t like at home when you can be really focused. Got back yesterday but had another hospital visit with David today so wasn’t really ready to fast given anxieties or excuses as they may be. Tomorrow I will be right at the right place, doing the right thing!!! Be in touch soon and happy fasting wishes to you and MM.

Gilgil.

Deerhunter

9:14 am
14 May 14
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Hi Gilgil
Glad you had a good weekend. It’s hard to not indulge with those type of events. I bet it was good catching up with old friends. Did you pass on any any info about the 5.2 to your friends?

Well Mon has been and gone and it wasn’t too bad. We have lost a bit more weight. MM down .5 to 91.0 and me down to 78.0. MMs goal is to get under 90.0 That would make his doctor happy. At least he’s getting more exercise now which he never would have done prior to the 5.2. So I keep encouraging him and endeavour to stear him away from the ‘naughty ‘cupboard.
Sorry to hear you’ve had hospital visits with your MM. Hope he is OK.
Getting ready for day 2 tomorrow,( Thursday) early breakfast then off to the shops to get the Veges etc and extra carrots for that lovely soup. I’m also going to make some cauliflower rice which people tell me is very nice and a good substitute for rice on fast days.

Well I hope you have a good week. Good Faaaasting!!!!!

CJazz63

6:48 pm
14 May 14
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I will be 63 next week. I heard about the Fast Diet from my doctor and have been intrigued by the idea of eating lite 2 days a week. I exercise regularly, walking and doing water aerobics (which I have done for over 30 years). I look forward to getting some results from this diet! I have been at the same weight for years, and need something to move that in the right direction! Looking to lose 20-40 lbs. Just ordered the book. (:~ )

Gilgil

9:23 pm
14 May 14
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Welcome CJazz63,

I think you are about to begin a different, but good new life and I’m only 2 weeks into this 5:2 regime! It isn’t that I haven’t had the odd problem or so, but it really seems to be achievable and if the weight loss which results from fasting isn’t really the main aim, the improvement to your healthy life becomes the paramount thing. I have bought and read the book and even found Michael Mosely’s programme on the web and I believe!! With a bit of encouragement from the forums,coupled with a sensible approach to the fasting it can happen.

I don’t exercise yet, at least not a lot because I’m too heavy to risk my joints, but I do enjoy fasting and feel so much better on those days, without any loss of energy etc. I drink loads of water, herb teas and throw in the odd beef tea, or tea/coffee with measured quantity of skimmed milk. For me, I prefer to keep my calories for the evening, with a snack 30 minutes or so before bed and then I have a good nights sleep. I don’t back to back the fasts, although I think I could as I feel so well, but will try that in the future. I’ve now got my TDEE which is around 1600 per day, not the 2000 mentioned in the book and I try to be observant. In truth, it’s easier to fast than observe the daily calories.

I love hearing from Deerhunter, down under and comparing notes. We all seem to be looking for similar end goals, though perhaps mine are a bit steeper than yours. My first post on this forum gave a bit of medical history so. You see, this can be so good for me. My soul mate and husband started out with me, but he has a lot of current health issues so for the time being he has had to drop out of the fasting, however he is watching calories and being very supportive so I don’t mind.

I find reading other peoples experiences through the various posts really uplifting. I hope they do it for you too. In the meantime read that book when it comes and BELIEVE because it really can happen.

Anytime you want to chat, just drop a post. Good, good fortune CJazz63.

best wishes Gilgil.

Deerhunter

6:05 am
15 May 14
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Welcome CJazz63 to the 5.2 family,

You are about to embark on a very different way of eating. As GIgil says it’s not only weight loss that I think we all aim for but, the other health benefits. I certainly feel good after a fast day and the feeling of being a bit ‘lighter’. My husbands BP seems much better and his doctor has reduced his medication. It’s funny but,if his doctor hadn’t suggested the 5.2 diet to get his weight down I probably wouldn’t have given the 5.2 a thought. Doing it together really is good for encouragement.
You may find the first few weeks a bit tough but stick with it. The thing is to work out what works for you. I myself have breakfast maybe around 9.30 after doing a bit of treadmilling then a coffee around midday. In the afternoon if I’m feeling a bit empty I’ll have a mug of OXO sometimes 2 mugs depending on what we are having for dinner about 6.30pm. I try to keep under the 500 cals but, occasionally I’ve gone a bit over.
My husband is very often well under his 600 cals as he basically eats the same as me except he drinks more coffee with just a small amount of skin milk.
Although I’m not a big fan of water I do try and drink plenty of it on the fast days.

One thing is to keep busy on the fast days to take your mind off ‘food’ especially in the beginning.One of the days we usually do the housework which makes the day go real quick. .
I’ve tried a few other diets but this one is sustainable. Since turning 50 the weight seems to have slowly gone upwards even though my diet was pretty much the same. ( those rotten hormones!!!!)
So I expect it to take some time to come off. I’ve also been having apple cider vinegar in water every morning. Originally I started taking it for my hot flushes but I’ve kept it going as I’ve read it assists in weight loss. Didn’t do much for the flushes but, maybe it’ll work better for the weight loss along with the fasting.

So good luck and let’s us know how you go.

Gilgil

12:32 pm
20 May 14
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Hello All,

I was checking our start date, 27 April and noting that today is my 5th Fast Day. Don’t understand why I’m a bit short on the total, but it has been a bit sociable and disrupted of late.

Anyway, good news ……. I’m feeling good and a couple of kilograms have shifted so I’m well pleased. Know I could be doing better but I am kind of up against things at present and my spirits are a bit lower than usual. I’m sure when we get his medical hiccups out of the way (still a way to go), I will be able to deal with life better.

My new scales are a bit temperamental about BMI etc but at the moment it can’t be moving much and I just need to get the weight (loss) anyway.

I’ve had some of your recommended carrot soup just now, to fill the gap a little and will have my favourite boiled egg at supper. I have to say again that I find the discipline of fast days much easier to cope with than my very lax attitude to ordinary days, when I often let my hair down way way too much! Food has been a solace for quite a while now and it’s tough to break the habit. I find my mental approach to 5:2 varies immensely between confidently enthused to the opposite. I could do with a bit more constancy.

Anyway, not hungry now, going to have a nap before collecting my granddaughter from school for a few child caring hours and then back to planning my new bathroom! Trying to keep myself occupied enjoyably but it’s not thrilling me too much and seems more like work than fun.

Gosh I’m a real moaning Minnie today! Apologies.

Gilgil

Deerhunter

3:13 am
21 May 14
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Hello Gilgil
Sorry to hear you are having a few ‘down days’. Just keep the faith although I know it’s hard not to fall off the wagon. I find the really cold days hard ( as it’s our late autumn here). You just want to eat something ‘naughty’. Drinking loads of water just isn’t the same is it? I’ve found that if I don’t drink enough water I wake up the next morning with a headache. So it’s something I’m just going to have to remember to do.
What did you think of the carrot soup? We had 2 bowls on the last fast day ( Mon) and at 85 cals a serve still had cals in reserve for a little jelly and yogurt and a hot drink later in the evening.

Our weight has plateaued this week but, that’s just part of the process. Though no weight loss I can see my shape slowly changeing and I can now see my waist which has been AWOL for several years.
Have you checked out this website for recipes. They have heaps of recipes including 5.2.
I’ve signed up for their newsletter and will defiantly try out some of the lovely recipes.

goodtoknow.co.uk

Hope you have a good week and don’t have too many battles.
All the best

Deerhunter

Gilgil

6:56 am
21 May 14
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Deerhunter, you really are a friend indeed, always there when needed. Hope I can return the favour as often as you do.

Liked the curried carrot soup, made for 4 so divided the portions and it keeps fine in the fridge. Wouldn’t be my snack of choice due to being a bit heavy on the curry but nice and comforting on the empty tum! I think soup is a way forward for non fast days too, maybe with a few extra calories for extra veggies and stock. My problem is the change of mind set from living to eat, to eating to live. For me and himself too there seem to be no half measures. We are great at talking the reduction diet and even better at eating it and them some!!

I loved reading that you fitted a pair of slacks from 5 years ago. That must be so rewarding and with the massive supply of sizes I have waiting for me (some still with tags) I won’t have to buy a thing forever so I’m kicked back in and had a great fast day yesterday. Also determined to be absolutely moderate today too.

So how cold is cold in your autumn? Do you take vitamins and supplements to get through these seasons? We of course are entering early summer and have had some very warm days so far. The garden is baked and can’t get the weeds out easily, that is, not without getting onto my knees and then leaning forward find the stomach is in the way!!! I wish there were a way to speed up this process (weeding and get shot of the tum) but as you say, took a long time coming and will take a long time going.

Have a terrific week both of you, stay well and fit and get off that plateau sap.

Good wishes, gilgil

Peter_S

5:31 pm
22 May 14
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Hi everyone,
I’m just in the throes of trying this diet regime and intend to start on Monday 26th May.

I’m fortunate in that I’m in reasonably good health. I keep myself fit with regular vigorous exercise and eat, what I believe to be a healthy diet (I did a short course with the Open University; ‘Understanding Human Nutrition’). Having said all that, I have a problem with high cholesterol and as a result, I’ve been taking statins for a number of years.

A couple of years ago, my doctor took me off statins for a few weeks to see if my cholesterol levels had gone down after I told him about my change in diet and exercise regime, but no luck. The blood test after a few weeks without taking statins showed that everything went up again. I was put back on them. The conclusion was that I may be just one of those people whose liver (I think the doc said) produced a lot of the bad stuff.

This Fast diet, however, got me thinking about giving it one more go to see if this diet will make a difference to my cholesterol levels. I am due another annual blood test in August and I think I will ask my GP if we can have another crack at a few weeks without statins and see what the result is this time.I’ll be interested in the result.

I wish you well and good luck.

Gilgil

6:06 pm
22 May 14
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Hello Peter

Nice to hear from you. I presume you’ve read the book about 5:2 Fasting because some of the research checked out by Michael Mosley does mention this problem. It may be possible to reduce the LDL type of cholesterol, which is of course the bad one and if this works for you it would be great. On the other hand …… you may just have that type of liver!! You do seem to lead a healthy lifestyle, eat a sensible diet etc and those of us doing this are not just looking for weight loss but for the other health benefits, however if you are not needing that element, will you fast well enough to lower the LDL and HDL while maintaining your weight?

A friend of mine in years past was 50’ish, slender, non smoking and very well exercised but his cholesterol was sky high and he took statins to reduce the risks of cardiac or stroke problems. I on the other hand am the opposite and also take statins ( since 1999 ) and have no problems with them.

Why do you want to come off them? You must have become used to them as you said it’s been some years since you started.

Anyway, at the end if the day, give it a go and stay in touch to let us know how you’re faring.

Good luck for Monday, have a great bank holiday.

Regards Gilgil

Deerhunter

6:18 am
23 May 14
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Hi Peter
Glad you are joining the 5.2s. I’m sure you will get benefits from it .

My cholesterol is around 5.0 and that was 4 months ago just after I started the 5.2 . So I’m curious as to what it might be now . I’ve always had a bit of a problem with my cholesterol and have been on medication for several years. It would be nice to come off the medication but,I’ll just have to wait and see.
There seems to be a bit of debate amongst the experts as to wether taking statins for a long time does more harm than good. Who knows….

Good luck with your first day on Monday.
Cheers
Deerhunter

simcoeluv

6:28 am
23 May 14
Permalink

Hi Deerhunter:

Current research shows cholesterol levels are irrelevant over age 50 and if you are over 65, the higher your level, the longer you live: . http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRe9z32NZHY. Of course, if you are younger than 50, the lower your level, the younger you die.

I wouldn’t worry.

Good Luck

Deerhunter

6:57 am
23 May 14
Permalink

Hi Gilgil
Well I have completed day 2( yesterday) of the week and I was going OK till I had a slip on our driveway going out for a walk with MM. It was a bit wet and I had my sports shoes on and they are a bit slippy and our driveway is steep. So down I went landing on my but and both elbows. Just as well I still have some ‘padding’ on my bottom. So today I’m feeling rather achy and sore and hobbling a bit. I’m sure by next week the bruising will come out nicely. Poor old me!!!!!!
We did eventually go for our walk as the weather at the moment is quite mild for late autumn . The temp is around 24c which is good for this time of year. We don’t get much sun on our house this time of year so it’s a bit cold indoors.Its good to get out in the warmth.Glad you are having some nice weather.

I don’t take any vitamins supplements just calcium at night for me bones. Hopefully with the weight loss it will better for my bone density. A few years ago I broke my wrist after slipping off the caravan steps rushing to answer the mobile. ( there I go again with the slips) MM calls me ‘autumn leaves’. Not nice is he??
Needless to say I don’t rush to answer the phone anymore.

Anyway I’ll get myself ready for another 5.2 week next week and hopefully stay upright!!!!!
Have a good weekend and take care.

Gilgil

7:40 am
23 May 14
Permalink

Oh dear, not much fun falling at our time if life. In fact it’s a big fear to me as I do sometimes feel at risk and am terrified of breaking a hip or something. My daughter fell this week in exactly the same way as you, slipping in the wet. Her bruises are ferocious as yours no doubt will be and I hope you will get over it soon.

So how’s the weight loss this week? I seem to be creeping down despite my best efforts at fasting, though doubtless as bit more exercise would be of benefit. Can’t seem to get my head around that just yet, but it will come.

I take folic acid for the heart disease, glucosamine with chondoitrin for the joints and a high dose fish oil to ease everything! Been in the fish oils for some decades now as I worked with the elderly and they persuaded me that the soonest was the best! Other than that, I have all the prescription stuff including statins which I started after angioplasty in 1998. I don’t seem to have any side effects from them and consequently don’t object to taking them. My daughters mum in law has a cholesterol of 2 and takes them as her doctor says everyone should!! Mines about 3.4 and all the blood readings are good, however I would like an up to date test to see how they may have changed.

Apropos the weather. 24C is not what I would call cold’ish. We are in early summer and it’s struggling to reach 18C! I don’t mind too much as I am a temperate climate girl and sweat with too much sun!

Got to get going now. Hope those bruises don’t cause too much trouble.

All the best for another fasting week with good losses!! Regards, Gilgil.

Peter_S

8:11 am
23 May 14
Permalink

Gilgil/Deerhunter,

I must admit that I don’t have any side effect problems with taking statins and the annual blood tests so far indicate that I don’t appear to have any other ‘not so obvious’ problems with taking statins. It isn’t just a cholesterol problem I have, there is a triglyceride problem as well. The statins control both. In any event, I just don’t fancy the idea of popping a pill for the rest of my life if I can avoid it. Simplistic, I know, but there you are.

I am also interested in other health benefits that this diet has to offer although I appreciate that further research into some aspects of it is ongoing. Indeed this is the first diet that I have decided to try.

One of the things I learned about food on the short nutrition course with the Open University is the importance of food from the womb to old age in relation to our health. The Fast Diet appears to correlate with what I learned on the course regarding the health benefits of food and not just about the weight loss aspect of the diet, which immediately caught my interest. I have looked at other diets but after asking myself questions about the diets (from what I learned on the course), I rejected them.

So, my tongue in cheek reasons for starting this diet is as follows:

1. I’m vain.
2. I want to live long and prosper (in a health sense).
3. The Kindle version of the ‘Fast Diet’ book was discounted.

Have a good bank holiday weekend everyone.

Peter

Gilgil

9:21 am
23 May 14
Permalink

Hi Peter,

Well. Can’t dispute anything you say and your points were good for a laugh!

Each to their own I say and if you don’t want to pop a pill forever then go for it. Myself, any crutch to make life healthier and simpler has to be my choice and on fast days I’m sure the pills fill a little hole!!!

Regards gilgil

Filly girl

9:23 am
23 May 14
Permalink

Hi Gilgil
Started fast diet 3 days ago need to lose stone & half first fast day was not as bad as I thought did not
Eat all day until 6pm. Today is my second fast day hoping it will not be to bad. Need encouragement
Tummy is growling! I have a connective tissue disease which leaves me in pain tired and weak
I am hoping that this fast diet will help. I am due to see consultant in June and she wants to
Put me on Azathioprine which I am not keen on also do not want to take steroids anymore. I am
Really hoping this diet will do the trick.x

Deerhunter

11:20 am
23 May 14
Permalink

Hi Filly Girl
Glad you are on board with the 5.2. It isn’t easy in the beginning and you will get the tummy rumbles.. They say the best thing to do is drink plenty of water. I’ve been. on the diet for around 4 months now and I still get the ‘rumbles’ especially around mid afternoon. Usually a mug of beef tea ( OXO ) fixes things .
I hope the 5.2 works for you.
Good luck

Deerhunter

11:27 am
23 May 14
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Hi Simcoeluv
Thanks for that link. Very interesting viewing. Don’t feel so bad about my cholesterol now.

Filly girl

2:27 pm
23 May 14
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Hi Peter
Just to say good luck for Monday happy 5.2 My second fast day today found it a little difficult so
Kept drinking WATER & coffee looking forward to supper tonight

Gilgil

3:21 pm
23 May 14
Permalink

Welcome Filly Girl, to the wonderful world of 5:2 Fast Diet and I am not being tongue in cheek!

Your medical problem is not a good one and being on long term steroids is hard going. I got very psychotic ally euphoric when I took them for a long period. Rather liked the world through rose tinted specs but it wasn’t normal. The Azathioprine is not a steroid but still has big consequences for the immune system and I understand your desire to avoid them, however, sometimes there are no alternatives. I think you are very brave to venture down this pathway and truly hope fasting will help you.

Tummy rumblings…… They get less with each fast and you can trick the tummy with variations of hot and cold drinks with no, or few calories. Bovril/Oxo cubes with hot water in a large mug really knocks those hunger pangs for a mere 14 calories or so. Deerhunters recommended carrot soup at 85 cals a bowl also works a treat. And just plain old water sipping is great too but if you add diverting your mind by doing something you’re on a winner! Incidentally, an afternoon siesta uses up an hour or so and you did say you got tired. The big reward of course is feeling better after fasting and a bit of weight loss on the scales. That really does it for you as do the forums which I find personally, completely uplifting and encouraging. I wouldn’t be without my new friend down under, Deerhunter, who shares all my experiences and guides me from greater experience as she’s been doing it for four months and I’m a newbie of barely four weeks!

Good luck. Stay in touch and share those triumphs and failings. We are all in this together.

Regards, Gilgil.

Filly girl

3:43 pm
23 May 14
Permalink

Hi Gilgil

Thank you so much for your encouragement the only way is up (or should that be down)
Will try hot and cold drinks as you suggest.

A siesta sounds great but I am one of those girls (ha ha) that cannot keep still have to be on
the go all the time I drive my husband mad. I am going on a spa day with my daughters
Sunday so will have to try and relax, think I will have a facial ( arrive at the spa. 68 &
come out 58 what do think?) xxx

Filly girl

3:44 pm
23 May 14
Permalink

Hi Gilgil

Doing this from ipad do not understand why the paragraphs break up never mind x

Gilgil

4:20 pm
23 May 14
Permalink

Great idea Filly Girl, facials and relaxing massages are wonderful and what a treat to do it with daughters.

Did you say 68? Same as me if so.

Enjoy Sunday.

Gilgil

Filly girl

9:37 am
24 May 14
Permalink

Hi Gilgil

Yes I am 68 years young but I must say Even with my illness feel much younger hoping
5.2 will make me feel even better.

After less than a week have lost 2lbs probably due to water loss in the loo all the time
spurs me on hurray

Have good weekend

Tricia x

Deerhunter

8:39 am
27 May 14
Permalink

Hi everyone.
How are you all this week? Our week got off to a reasonable start except for the fact our trusty scales died. So alas we couldn’t weigh ourselves.( don’t know whether that is a good or bad thing ) Bought a new set of digital scales but they seem to be about 2.5 kgs out. Unfortunately the wrong way so I think I’ll go back to a mechanical set at least to compare. Before the scales died they said I was 78kgs but, the new set said I was 81.5. Not only are they out but, according to that I’ve put on weight as well. I didn’t think I ate that much on the weekend!!!!!!!
When I went onto a product review site people were complaining about the same problem with this particular brand of scales. So you live and learn.
After we bought the new scales we decided to have lunch at a local club and enjoyed lovely fish and chips. Not something you can eat on ‘fast days’. Very tasty I must say. It’s been a long time since we’ve enjoyed that meal and it was worth any extra kgs I might have gained. Probably be another 1 year before we eat that again.
Anyhow the weight issues aside, clothes are looser on me and I’m happy with that. My hubby came home from work tonight and his work pants were so loose that if it wasn’t for his braces they would be slipping!!!!
A good feeling. Haven’t bought any new clothes yet but, the ones I have fit more comfortably. I’m still a size 18 but it’s early days yet.
We’re on week 19 now and although there hasn’t been a dramatic weight loss we are seeing benefits. So I hope you all have a good week.
Cheers
Deerhunter

fastingbelle

9:38 am
27 May 14
Permalink

Hi – I have only just found this group on the forum. I am 67, fairly fit – only have underactive thyroid to complain about. I have been fasting on and off since last September and have managed to lose 28 lbs – just another 7 or so to go.

I no longer find a problem with hunger (I eat just one meal around 7 in the evening) and have conquered the problem of feeling cold with a hot shower. But I do have a huge problem with not being able to sleep on fast days. Does anyone else have this issue? If so, what to do?? I have tried all sorts of things – spreading my calories through the day; drinking more; drinking less; … you name it, I’ve tried it.

I love this way of losing weight but the sleeplessness is beginning to get me down!