My Mother is The Biggest Loser

For those of you who thought this is my actual opinion of my mother, shame on you. I love my mother dearly and she is about as far from being a loser as you possibly could be; until now. You see, my mother is starting our version of "The Biggest Loser" challenge.

The Coach

As her coach, mentor, dietician, and #1 fan, let me introduce myself; my name is Rebekah Rodgers. Since I was big enough to walk, I have led a fairly active/healthy lifestyle; developed a pattern of habits that cultivate healthy eating choices, active hobbies, and determination to stay fit. At 21 years old, I still maintain those habits.

But my Mother has spent the last 20+ years taking care of five kids, a house, and husband. Somewhere along the line, she neglected to take care of her own health and wellbeing. That's where we find ourselves today. She has decided to make a change right now to save her health and live better.

The Biggest Loser Challenge

For the next 6 weeks (or however long it takes) Mom will be following the diet plan and exercise routines outlined in "The Biggest Loser" by Cheryl Forberg (and others). In order to motivate her to stick with the program, I have decided to diet and exercise with her through all 6 weeks.

We have four charts on the fridge: water intake, diet check, exercise check, and weight progress. I also had Mom put up a picture of her goal -- herself nearly 20 years ago -- as well as a list of excuses she's made since then that got her so far away from her optimal weight.

- For water intake, we aim for 128oz of water a day in four 32oz increments.

- Our diet plan follows the 1,200-1,500 calorie balanced meals listed in the book. (Note: 5 small meals a day makes a huge difference in hunger and cravings.)

- Exercises vary each week in type and intensity but in addition to the workouts, we walk 30-45 minutes outdoors. Mom's favorite warm-up is hula hooping while listening to Country music.

We are currently on Day 2. Weight progress = -1lb

Quote of the day:

Mom: "What?? I can't run!"
Me: *rolls eyes* "If one of your children got hit by a car, would you walk to their aid or run?"
Mom: "... I guess I can run."

Lesson learned: You CAN exercise beyond what you think you can. You'll never know your limits until you push them.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Here's where I need your help. Mom needs all the motivation, support, encouragement, (and prayers) you can give her. Comment below and let her know you're cheering for her!

becoming a better listener!

When we first begin anything new, it takes motivation to stay the course.  It takes a great deal of commitment and of course, a willingness to let go of the past mistakes and try a different route.

When it comes to eating differently, this is, if I could say it, an overwhelming challenge.  It happens so often for me, that when I "fall off the wagon" per say, I become discouraged and I end up taking three steps back!

Because of my diabetes, I don't have a choice but stay committed or become very ill.

This afternoon, for instance, a dear friend invited me for lunch.  It is always so nice to spend time with friends, but when they do not eat like you do, it can become the hardest meal you may have had that day.  Then how do you explain that the food she has in her pantry will make you ill?  Very simply, by being honest with your friends and family and letting them know ahead of time that you are committed to this new style of eating, and that eating something for "just this time" will make you quite sick and will derail your focus.

Be prepared to eat what is natural.  Do not go for the chips, the cold cuts - I don't care how fat-free or sugar-free they are advertised, they are processed and hence, not good for you.  Stay away from store-bought bread.  Even if it is wheat, it still contains high-fructose corn syrup, and to a diabetic this is a no-no.

Today, I had a salad and I made the mistake of eating a slice of store-bought bread.  Did it give me a reaction?  You bet!!  When I was driving home, I became very sleepy and my hands became numb.  This is my body's way of letting me know..."You have eaten something that is making me sick!"  How do I counter-act this reaction?  By drinking a cup of peppermint tea or a tall glass of water; staying still for an hour or so until my sugar levels itself out and take a walk around the block. 

Now, I know, that many of you probably do not suffer from diabetes, like I do.  But if you still get reactions, like bloating, pain, or feelings of nausea...listen to your body and next time, I can guarantee it that you will listen better.

Stay the course...

Maria