Week 64 08/14/2008
Tom’s Blog #1
I want to start by congratulating Val on tackling those credits for her GED. Many high schools could offer her an honorary diploma just to claim her as alumnae and she’s chosen to do it legitimately. To that end, I’m happy to be her wing-man-blog-man.
I was excited when Val asked me to share some of my experiences, as well as give some tips and tricks because we have both not only supported each other, but we’ve learned that by sharing with others it keeps us on track. Today’s tip is about portion control, which is Priority One for me. I’ve lost 30 pounds* on Jenny Craig (ya that’s right!) and I’ve kept it off — because portions, I’ve learned firsthand, are key. And of course because of the support I get from Kathy, my wonderful consultant!
After seeing my results, my brother recently went on Jenny Craig and is having a lot of success. But at 59 years old, he told me that he never knew how to read labels or paid attention to portion control until he started Jenny Craig. He’s reached the point in the program where he prepares more meals on his own, and he’s been taught — by both his consultant and me — what a healthy portion looks like, how to understand calories per portion, etc. Sure, a bag of something may only have 100 calories, but that’s PER SERVING. “How many servings are in the bag?” You have to ask yourself.
I’ll give you an analogy. I’m a numbers guy, so bear with me: With the gas prices as high as they are, a lot of us are driving less, or managing our outings more efficiently. This, in essence, is portion-control. Because we’ve all got to drive, right? We’ve got to get to work, etc., but by cutting out excess mileage, we can better manage our bottom line. It’s the same with eating. WE HAVE TO EAT. We just don’t need to eat as much as many of us do.
This may be routine for some of you, but for those of you just starting out, I hope this helps. Watch your excess driving, is what I’m saying. When you’re out at a restaurant or the mall, remember to check your Dining Out Guide, it’s a great way to put in perspective the portion sizes to help you with your weight loss goals.
Best,
Tom
*Results not typical
