Meal Planning Instead of Counting Calories a User's Weight Loss Journey

Introduction

Losing weight can be a daunting task, but with the help of online communities and helpful tips, such as meal planning, it can be a successful and rewarding journey. One Reddit user, nosarcasmforyou, shared her journey to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Meal Planning Instead of Counting Calories

One helpful tip that the user received from the Reddit community was to plan meals instead of counting calories. By creating a plan and only buying necessary foods, the user was able to make a choice once on what to eat for the week. This helped prevent cheating since there was no room for random choices. Meal planning also included a pre-established calorie deficit so that snacking or eating out wasn't detrimental to weight loss goals. This allowed for wiggle room in daily eating without going over the budget.

Finding Ways to Self-Soothe and Reward Without Food

Another tip that the user received from the Reddit community was to learn how to self-soothe and reward without food. This user found comfort in eating, so finding other ways of comfort was a challenge. By distracting themselves, such as through coloring or engaging in an enjoyable activity, they were able to take their mind off of eating. They also found other ways to reward themselves, such as buying videogames or home decor items. This allowed them to use their money more effectively and avoid spending it on comfort food.

Transparency and Support in Online Communities

An important component of this user's journey was the transparency and support received from online communities such as Reddit. By sharing their weight loss journey and receiving feedback and support, they were more likely to stay committed and motivated to reach their goals. Being a part of a community of like-minded people can help normalize the ups and downs of weight loss and help individuals feel less alone on their journey.

Reducing Sugar Intake

The user found helpful tips from Robert Lustig, MD, known for his work on fructose and sugar. The Reddit community and Robert Lustig's research allowed this user to find new ways to reduce sugar intake and gain a better understanding of the hidden sources of sugar in everyday foods. By gradually reducing sugar intake, they were able to avoid binges and maintain a healthier lifestyle.