About 2 months ago, I hit a major weight loss goal. I was down 20 pounds from my pre-pregnancy weight, and I was feeling great!
But, 2 months later, I’m still there. And I can tell you why.
My brain and body are in maintenance mode.
Calories do matter — I don’t care what anyone says. And my caloric intake has been in maintenance mode. So, while I’m thrilled by my success thus far, I need to kickstart my weight loss again.
So, I’m asking for your help…
What are your suggestions for jumping off this plateau and jump starting my weight loss again?
Katy says
Low-carb!! I do carb cycling some and the days I start back I lose 4 pounds every time. I also do 8-day challenges frequently and take my health supplements that help curb my appetite and boost my energy and metabolism. Doing those things and eating right show me awesome results!
Lydia says
Totally agree with carb cycling. I lost 3 dress sizes in 4 months with what seemed very little effort simply cycling my carbs. It seems to have affected my body (or my eating habits) on a more permanent bases too. I’m 8 mos pregnant and have gained 18 lbs thus far. With my previous 3 pregnancies I gained about 40+ lbs. each time and could only lose 25 lbs of it after baby.
Amy says
That feels doable! Thanks! 🙂
Tara says
I am going to have to google carb cycling. It isn’t a term I am familiar with. I am pregnant so not now, but later! 🙂
Olivia says
I suggest if this post baby and sticking or slow to come off despite your efforts, go get blood test for all your hormones, and include a full thyroid panel. I have four children ,and I am able to fit my wedding dress I wore 12 years ago, I always have eaten a well balance diet, but I found out after baby number four, that I had hypo thyroid disease, and it silently developed after having children, After getting the blood test results, I got on the right medication, and without a lot of life style changes, I mean four youngsters is a gym with all the activity…. and continuing to eat as I always have three balanced meals, lots of water, and fruit for a snack or nuts or grains, and I snack once a day, ( I never do diets or count anything) that’s to much mental effort) I do not have that extra weight I did. It was my thyroid and hormones. It is not truly our fault if our bodies give up, but we don’t have to give up, and can do something about it. If you are sluggish to loose weight, moody, clogging the shower drain with extra hair, have ridged finger nails, and brain fog, and taking on house choirs feels like climbing a mountain, its time to go to the doctor. I spent years thinking a mid day nap was a routine for mothers, turns out I have a lot of energy after getting my thyroid on medication. I am an eight, in jeans!!!! But that is after loosing 60 pounds of extra baby weight. this is the most ignored topic for mothers post partum, we think its weight, but that is only a symptom, its how we feel about ourselves and how are bodies are working, that weight is a side effect of other things. By the way, It took me a year, I gradually lost 3 pounds a month or a little more a couple months at a time. I will say this to all who read this, if your spouse says, you look good, take it ,say thanks because that person does not really care about your weight like we women do, they care about the amazing women who gave her own life to give life for there children ,they adore you, and in there eyes, no matter what weight, you are the most good looking he has ever seen. I was great 60 pounds ago, and I am still great, I never once rebuffed a complement. you are great at all stages of life, or weight, or what ever life gives you. And children will say how your the most beautiful mother they have ever seen, and how they want to be you when they grow up, and look like you, so take good care of your health but know, the family sees a Queen, not the weight. Mine did, and does.
Amy says
Thanks, Olivia — I have had my thyroid checked, and it is fine. I feel great, but I’ve started eating some things that aren’t real great for me lately. This is all me, not my body. 🙂
Rebecca says
When I had a trainer (years ago), I found that by changing my work out daily – my body responded in a more timely manner. try changing what you are doing. That shocks your body out of the ‘maintenance’ mode because you are switching gears and it needs to find a new way to respond.
Amy says
Confession: I’m not exercising much at all right now.
Amanda says
It may sound odd – I don’t recall that you’ve tried this, sorry if I missed it – but don’t eat after 5pm. My mom is hypothyroid and in menopause and (along with a healthy diet and exercise) has been loosing weight steadily whereas she had prior plateaued. All the doctors told her in her present phase of life it couldn’t be done, but it’s working.
Amy says
Thyroid is good, but thanks for the suggestion!
Susan says
Many of my friends like Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred (I am not familiar with it because I have not done it personally). They seem to lose a good amount of weight on it. Other than that I would say very few carbs, like 1 or 2 a week.
Michelle S says
Are you doing THM? Have you tried some FP days? I’m on the THM pregnant and nursing group and many of them say their weight loss is slowed way down by nursing. I haven’t actually started THM yet, just got my book on Monday. Maybe measure instead of watch the scale? I also like T-Tapp.
Amy says
I have looked into a Fuel Pull. I need to read more in that chapter. Thanks for reminding me!
Shonda says
Find an accountability partner or group. I weigh in every week and report on food and exercise challenges. That’s how I busted my plateau. You can do it!
Amy says
Thanks Shonda! Sometimes you just need someone cheering you on!
Melinda Knatterud says
Adding interval training into your workout routine helps immensely with upping your fat burn. If you are walking, run for short bursts (30sec-1 min) and doing several repeats. If you are already running, sprint for that amount of time. Strength training, especially lifting weights, is also good for increasing your metabolism. These are the things that have helped me. I love watching your story! You are doing great!
Amy says
Thanks, Melinda! I desperately need to get back on the exercise path!
Michele says
after losing 17 pounds I have hit that plateau as well. Starting the Trim Healthy Momma Full Pull cycle today with some friends for a week. Praying that gets me going again. sometimes our body just needs a break and a new start.
You look great Amy!
Amy says
Thanks! Need to look over the fuel pull thing again.
Jenny says
Can I just say you are doing great. I had my baby two days after you and am no where near your weight loss. It took me a while to get the weight to start coming off, I started using the Fitbit One, and now I am losing about a pound a week. I have only lost about 10 pounds so far, but It does provide me with tons of motivation.
Amy says
Great job, Jenny! It feels so slow to me, but I know that going slower will actually help it stay off (and give my skin time to shrink as well!).
Susan Alexander says
My advice? Be patient with yourself. Plateaus happen and they are totally natural… That said, before cutting calories, I’d examine what you’re eating – any sugar? Calorie-filled drinks? I find that PP I get my best and most consistent weight loss by simply only drink water and avoiding sugar as much as humanly possible (including condiments/etc). Be sure your meals are balanced – 1-2 servings of carb per meal only (a serving is 1 piece of bread, 1 medium potato, 1 cup rice, 4 oz pasta….) Good luck! The best weight loss comes slowly.
Amy says
That is very much what I need to do, Susan! I know the sugars have crept back in for sure.
Sarah says
I track my weight with the my fitness pal app daily, and that has been a huge help. When I hit a plateau I start making more soups and salads for dinner. I try to do a high protein/ high fiber soup- homemade with lots of veggies served with one piece of toasted garlic bread. Also, I do salads with lean protein at lunch. Then I up my exercise levels. Nothing dramatic, just fit in an extra walk here and there and try to increase length of walk or pace.
I’m 15 weeks pregnant now and still tracking my weight daily and exercising. I lost 10 pounds the first tri because of hyperemesis, and have only gained back 3 pounds. My last pregnancy I gained at least 50 pounds and it took 2 years (when we found out we were expecting this time) to be back at my prepreg weight which is only 10 pounds overweight.
Usually those things help. I’m also a big fan of smoothies for breakfast.
3 cups mixed frozen berries
1 large banana
2-3 cups milk
1 cup yogurt
They’re thick, so you can add more milk if you want. This is enough for 4-5 servings. Or for 2 hungry littles and me. 😉
I serve the smoothies with peanut butter toast and a small handful of pecans.
Congrats on your weight loss so far! Keep at it and stay encouraged. We’re all rooting for ya!
Amy says
Thanks, Sarah! I do need to track more. And my hope is that if God should bless us again, I would do a better job of keeping the weight gain reasonable. 😉
Wendy Groszkiewicz says
I recently lost 110 pounds on Take Shape for Life/Medifast. It is an amazing, life-changing program and it was easy to follow (I’ve never been able to lose more than 15 pounds on other “diets”). I started Oct 31, 2012 and to say that I have gotten my life back is an understatement. I only have 3 young kids, but chasing them around and homeschooling them was exhausting, being over 100 pounds overweight. Now I feel wonderful and don’t tire easily! :). If you’d like more info, shoot me an email.
I hope you find something to kickstart yourself…you have done a great job so far! And congrats on the new little guy, so adorable! 🙂
Amy says
Way to go, Wendy!
Kristin Stevens says
Have you heard of green smoothies? My family has added green smoothies to our diet for the past 2 months. We have had weight loss, skin clearing up, my 19 month old had to take milk of mag everyday and we have stopped giving it to him, positive attitudes… You can get more info at the raw family website, they also have YouTube videos that explain it.
Amy says
Yes, I have heard of green smoothies! Thank you for the info!
Lauree says
Hi Amy! You look amazing!! I typed out a long post and lost it. Ugh. Haha. Anyway, are you logging your daily intake? My Fitness Pal online and free is a great tool!! I use it and love it! How many days a week are you exercising? Can you increase it in length and maybe add a day? Try no bread, pasta, etc for dinner to jump start loss again. Biggest thing-take your measurements! Measure every two or so weeks. You will see a difference there!! Your body is acclimating to the new weight and eating. Good luck! Don’t give up- you will overcome the plateau!!
Amy says
Great ideas! And yes, I do think my body has been doing some adjusting.
Meryl says
My mom and I are big fans of Johnsons Alternate Day Diet. There is a lot of research that supports the method and it is very flexible. Basically, pick two or three days a week to eat 500 calories, then eat normally the rest of the time. No restrictions on what to eat, just stay around 500 for the “down day”. You will find that you are not hungry as often, and the cravings will subside. Researchers believe that it helps turn activate a gene that revs your body’s metabolism.
Praying for you!
Rachel says
Baby #7 is 19 months now and I have lost 50lbs since he was born (with 20 to go until I’m at my ultimate goal). It has been a long and spurt like process. At times I will lose 5 or 10 lbs in a course of a week or two and then I will be stuck for MONTHS. It has be a long and frustrating progress. I started with Calorie Count until I was too stuck. Then I started Trim Healthy Mama and then I added the Fitness Blender workouts from Youtube. The workouts seem to be what helps the most when I make the time to do them, but that goes in spurts too. I’m going to try and get outdoors with the kids doing a summer P.E. time starting next week. I have been stuck at the same weight now for several months and went off my THM eating plan for the last couple of weeks out of frustration. I noticed this morning that my feeling of all over health has been affected by that in a negative way though and I am planning on going back on the plan next week and laying off of too many heavy fat meals for awhile. Hoping the temporary backsliding and the diet afresh will help kick me back into gear. Keep up the good work. Blessings.
Amy says
I know I need to get back to THM in some capacity. I’ve never done it 100%, but when I am more “on” than “off”, I do better overall.
Steph says
This might sound a little backwards, but it is possible that you might be needing to consume more calories/fat. If you are nursing, your body needs a constant store of calories-It sounds like your body might be in “starvation mode,” meaning your body is using everything that is being taken in, but knows it is trying to make nourishment for another person as well, so it is hanging on to anything it can! I remember hearing this after my 1st baby, and scratching my head, but it did help! I ate when I was hungry and didn’t focus on calories and how much I was taking in –the most important thing is that your calories are full of nourishment, mainly healthy fats & proteins. Our bodies are designed to not have quick weight loss after having babies in order to nourish our babies-when we lose fat quickly it releases toxins through our body and into our milk. So hopefully that is helpful, I think you have done great so far!
kelly says
I agree. Have you tried increasing your calories for a day or two (with healthy foods, not a free for all. =0) It is one of those “shock” your body things as it is something different that your body hasn’t experienced in awhile. (I have lost 40 lbs of baby weight 5 times now and it is always a pound by pound fight) You can do this (b/c you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. =), be patient with your body and be diligent and consistent. Also, someone else mentioned changing up your exercise. That can help too. Have you tried light weights?
Amy says
Yes, I am doing some weight training. I actually think I’ve been eating way too much lately and not exercising much either. I’m thankful I’m not gaining, but still…
Kelly says
Sounds like you are human. 🙂 time to refocus & sure things up. One meal at a time. A set back doesn’t have to continue. Determine that the next snack/meal choice is a healthy one, then the next, and the next, and the next. 🙂 I am saying this as much to encourage me as much as you. (Just got back from a 2 week trip w/ family & 8 days of car/traveling. Not easy to make healthy choices on the road.) you’ve come this far, don’t stop now!!!
Andrea says
This has happened to me as well, where I was consuming too few calories with nursing that the weight loss stopped. I increased calories and the weight loss began again. Having said that, now I am 6 pounds away from my 26 year old, pre-first baby weight (I’m two weeks away from 41 and we have 6) but I am still nursing. And you know what – that is okay! Those last few pounds might just have to hang on until our son is done nursing. I know that I am healthy. I eat very healthy, whole foods, lots of water, no soda, extremely limited (if any) sugar, etc. This is the best I can do food wise. Now exercise… that is where I am lacking! Just. So. Tired…. But it is a vicious cycle. If I would exercise I would have more energy. I know, I know.
I LOVE 30 Day Shred for its benefits, but I DO NOT like half naked women on my television, Jilian Michaels’ incessant talking, her alternative lifestyle, etc. With sons and a husband in the house, it is hard to find decent workout videos.
shannonc says
try beachbody workouts. I love 10 minute trainer, I have 5 kids, with a busy house as well, it is more possible to put in a 10 minute workout when you can. I figure a little bit of exercise is better than none at all.
Amy says
Great job, Andrea! I know much of my problem are the food choices I am making.
Andrea says
And when I ever get to the point I feel “right” I will probably be pregnant again!!!! 🙂 And yes, yes, yes, that is okay too!!!
Amy says
LOL – yep. 😉
Andrea says
Just found out we are expecting Baby No. 7 – Wahoo!!!!
Amy says
Yippee!!!! Congratulations! Here’s to a healthy and wonderful pregnancy!
Amy says
Thanks, Steph! I do think I’m consuming too much actually. I can tell I’ve changed modes. Too many sugars too. ack!
Geraldine says
Read the Trim Healthy Mama book. It’s working really well for me so far, and with other diets I’ve tried I always plateaued after 20 pounds or so too and then couldn’t lose more.
Amy says
I’ve not been following THM very well lately…thanks for the kick. 😉
Jill says
Have you heard of The Dia Method? It’s a workout specifically designed for post-partum women and addresses not only diet and exercise but also target exercises for diastasis recti (the tear in your ab muscles that most women experience in pregnancy). I just started so I can’t really give you any results though, I have to say, they do suggest a low carb first two weeks. Usually, doing the low carb will show weightloss for me but I always feel like I’m going to die. This diet suggests drinking chicken broth daily to keep your mineral levels stable and, so far (I just started Monday), I haven’t experienced that horrible feeling and I’ve lost about 4 pounds.
Amy says
Interesting. Link please?
Jill says
http://www.thediamethod.com/
Amy says
Thank you!
Season Rone says
“Trim and healthy mama” is the best! My baby number 9 is 8 months old and I’m almost to the bottom of my BMI and she is fattest baby I’ve had yet and I have more energy then I’ve had in years!
Tracie Delich says
Trim Healthy Mama lifestyle!! 🙂
Shannon says
I’ve had a lot of success in breaking plateaus. Baby #6 is due soon and I usually gain 80lbs. per pregnancy and always have gotten it off before the next one comes along. Every plateau is different and frustrating. Some things that have worked for me in the past. 1) Try adding or increasing free weights during your workout. The more muscle you build the more fat you burn. 2) Sometimes I just have to fit 3 workouts into my day. I know that’s hard w/ lots of littles around but 10 minutes of abs counts! Sometimes while standing and brushing your teeth you can march in place. Any little bit of extra activity can help break that plateau. W/ baby #5 I had to add an EARLY morning boxing class so I was out of the house before anyone woke up in order to fit in a high intensity workout. 3) Juicing has also helped but adding to my protein total for the day and decreases appetite. 4) The Paleo Diet has also been amazing. Think unlimited amounts of meat and veggies. Good luck I’ll be praying for you, I really sympathize w/ what you’re dealing w/!
Amy says
Thanks, Shannon!
Heather says
Try the 3 day military diet. It is strict but only three days. Find instructions on hubpages. I lost 40 pounds in 6 weeks. Dramatic because I needed dramatic, but your loss will be relative to your need. Think of it as a kick start.
shannonc says
I recommend eating 6 times a day. Small meals every 2-3 hours. it will kick up your metabolism and you will burn calories all day long. Depending on how much time you have available, I have done 10 minute workouts to 60 minute workouts. If you do them aggressively and give it your all, depending on how much time you have, you will burn calories all day long. good luck. Making small achievable goals also helps.
Danielle says
Check out Dr.Oz, I did this and lost 12 lbs, its not something that you can do constantly, but its just a week & it will be very helpful to kick start you back.
http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/oz-approved-7-day-crash-diet
Allison edwards says
Weightwatchers for breastfeeding moms was a huge help for me 🙂
Wendy Hoff says
Strength training is awesome! Muscle burns calories like mad, so the more muscle you have, the better. Plus the health benefits: strength, stronger healthier bones, less prone to injury, etc. I can recommend a couple books if you’re interested.
Katherine says
I found that I had to drop my caloric intake to see a difference. I don’t know if you lift weights at all, but weight training has been a huge help for me. Muscle burns fat, so the more muscle you have, the more fat you burn. I was afraid of bulking up, but that is a myth. If you have someone help you and explain the way to weight lift without bulking up, you will see some great results. I know I have. I’ve seen some great results for the people that lift at the gym with me. It doesn’t take much time at all either. I only do about 3 things a day and I only go 3 times a week. I squat every time I go. I do 3 sets of 5 reps and I’m up to squatting 105 pounds. I bench press, standing press, dead lift and power clean. As I said though, not all in one day. The other things besides squatting get rotated. It’s great, I’m stronger, have more energy and have lost weight and inches and am getting firmer. Anyway, sorry, you may already be weight lifting and then this doesn’t really help you. I just know that I’ve been happy with it.
Lindsay says
My friend swears that cheat days jumpstart weight loss. She has one every couple of weeks and it keeps her weight loss on track. She’s lost about 20 pounds on her journey as well.
Sarah says
I plateaued too 🙂 My baby is about 2 1/2 months and I lost 18 lbs and stopped 🙁 I started what they call “Permission-Based Eating”. Basically, no matter what time of day it is, you don’t eat until your stomach has growled at you THREE times (or whatever your body’s hunger signal is, mine is the rumblies). If you wait more than that, your body goes into starvation mode and starts storing fat and calories. I started doing this after my plateau and lost 5 lbs in about a week! I’ve kept it off, but have plateued again so I’ll be back at it soon 🙂 You already eat healthy, whole foods right? This is such a brainless way to lose weight, it’s ridiculous!
Melissa says
Have you had a binge weekend where you eat terribly to help restart your metabolism?
Amy says
I think my issue is binging too much. 😉
Peta says
Hi! I would up your exersice and go for a power walk every day. Watch what you are eating and eat less carby food and more protien and veggies. All the best, Peta
Apry Yoder says
For me cutting out all White flour and all white sugar for 2 weeks. Eat only Protein, and high fiber veggies for 2 weeks. Then I introduce some high fiber fruits (strawberries, Apple, Blueberries) (NO BANANAS) all while continuing only protein. after 4 weeks of the above, start adding high fiber/whole wheat back into your diet. I had to do this while preggers because I am Gestational Diabetic. I Lost 50 lbs! I have gained a bit back and hope to start this again.
Hope this helps! 🙂
Amy says
Thanks! Sounds like South Beach. I did that several years ago and had good results.
Tammy says
Stop eating carbs. Eat only lean protein and vegetables for two weeks. It’s hard but I lost over 2 inches off my waist in less than a week.
Tammy says
The South Beach Diet was developed by a cardiologist to get his patients’ blood work at healthy levels, as a side effect they dropped abdominal fat. After 2 weeks of no carbs (not even fruit!) you can have one a day until you reach your goal weight. After that it’s maintenance.
Muscle burns more calories than fat, so lift weights. A GREAT program for that is Body For Life. When I was in Iraq it was like a cult 😀 Cardio 3x week and lifting 3x week. BFL has a different eating plan than SBD but I know my body and I am carb intolerant so I stick with SBD. BFL also has cheat days . . . You can find these books at any thrift shop.
Check out my Pinterest board, Carb-Free Joy.
Kim says
Been there! The “couch to 5K” program got me out of it every time. 🙂
LeAnne says
Trim Healthy Mama…its an amazing book that looks at diets & eating from a biblical perspective & IT WORKS! I lost 20lbs in less than 2 months. Its all in how you pair your foods. Here is my blog post about it! http://www.titusprinciples.blogspot.com/2013/04/trim-healthy-mama.html
Lisa~ says
I am so proud of you my friend! Really great job. Weight is my lifelong struggle, but lately I have been able to lose by stopping all carbs, sugars and dairy. My point is to really change it up somehow. Do something completely different to tell your body it’s go time again. Blessings! Love ya! Lisa~
Amy says
I think I am going to try removing carbs and see if I can kickstart things again. 🙂
Leanne says
Dropping the dairy and switching to almond milk saves you some carbs/sugars. We are a milk free home and use almond milk for everything..even mac & cheese 🙂
AnnaMichelle Worthley says
Hi there! I highly recommend Trim Healthy Mama. I don’t know how to paraphrase this *shortly* so get the book and read it. It may be just what you’re looking for! This is what I am using to loose my pregnancy weight also!
God Bless!
🙂 AnnaMichelle
AnnaMichelle Worthley says
Oh, also, I’d recommend Fit2B for exercise. Its an online exercise program that targets healing a Diastasis Recti (the separation of the transverse abdominal muslce)…healing your core muscles…in a very gentle, but effective way.
So maybe your weight loss has stalled, but you could work on strengthening your core.
So Trim Healthy Mama, and Fit2B. (I am not affiliated with Trim Healthy Mama, but I am with Fit2B. If you want to sign up, you can use my code (AnnaMichelle) to get a discount!)
I hope you are able to find something that works for you.
🙂 AnnaMichelle
Kelly says
Intervals of running and walking coupled with lifting weights. You look great! I have pretty severe diastasis recti (which is how I found your site). I have three kids ages 6, 4 and my “baby” is 3 years old. I have about 30 or more pounds to lose and everyone always assumes I’m pregnant. I carry most of my weight in my mid-section and have always had a small chest. I’m trying to kick my weight loss path into gear too! Good luck!
Cathy says
I also wanted to comment on the exercise. When I give that up even for a few days, the pounds start coming back on. I know it is hard, I give up sleep and get up early in the morning to exercise, it is the only way it gets done!! You are doing great and look great, like others have said, give it time. It didn’t go on overnight and it won’t go off overnight. However, I think exercise is so critical, I think many more pounds can be lost by just adding in some exercise then by any other eating “fad” out there.
Maria says
Good job so far! Have you ever heard of Advocare’s 24 day challenge? Amazing for breaking through plateaus. Shoot me an email and I’ll give you the scoop. 🙂 learninghonor @ gmail dot com
lynne says
Hi, Amy. Have you heard of Advocare and the 24 day challenge? It costs a bit, but is definitely a way to kick start weight loss. Pretty much protein, fruits, and veggies. Plus some supplements and an herbal cleanse. I lost 10 lbs and 7 inches. Really an energizer too!
Tricia says
Bone Broth. Replenishes your body with important nutrients lost in pregnancy & nursing, very satisfying & makes the house smell great!
I use this for one meal a day… great energy restorer.
Amanda Bolme says
consider going back through some of the lessons from The Lord’s Table to have your mind and heart reset and freshly encouraged. The lessons on laziness are always a good reminder for me. That is usually where I need to be re-kickstarted…not so much in my eating habits.
Molly says
I am right there with you my daughter is 19 months old and I am about 20 pounds under my pre-pregnancy weight. But I just changed what I was doing within the last month. Here is why I have lost weight, but I think my metabolism needed the boost.
I have two children and the women around me hate the fact that I lost weight both times while I was pregnant. With my first child I lost the most but I put it back on quickly. With my second I lost just under 30 pounds which is about 15% ish. After I had my second child and did the same thing I took a serious look at what I was doing when I was pregnant that I wasn’t doing the rest of the time. I drink more water (at work I always have 2 or three bottles of water on my desk so it is available if I want it). I eat more but I space it out. I take my regular dinner meal for example and I eat it in three parts. So instead of eating my dinner at 6:30, I eat it at 4, 6 and 8. So if I am having a hamburger, salad and ice cream. I eat my salad at 4, hamburger at 6 and then ice cream at 8. My kids are little and eat this way naturally. I don’t over eat because I eat often so I am not as hungry. So I get up at 9:30, I eat breakfast at 10, lunch at 12 and 2 dinner at 4, 6 and 8. If I am out to dinner I take some home. I don’t eat a lot at any one sitting.
I started eating like this when I was pregnant because of morning sickness. I am pretty happy with where I am at, without changing my diet or exercise I am lighter than I have been in 5 years. Now it is time to add a little exercise beyond chasing the children and see if I can continue to lose. Think I can get my three year old to go with me on a run? I don’t know…
Amy says
Wow, how interesting! Great job on your weight loss!
Erin says
Hi Amy,
I just admire how open you are to receive advice on weight loss. There are many eise and helpful comments already, all I want to say is that you look beautiful. You are doing a great job balancing so many things in your life and letting us all in on the triumphs and struggles. You have such good fruit growing and you share it freely. Thanks. It seems you already have some ideas of what you want to do to get out of your plateau and I wish you the best of luck. But if you stay where you are for a life time you are still a beauty! I’m sure you DH would agree.
Amy says
Aww, thanks, Erin. 🙂
Tehila says
Hi dear sister,
I’m afraid I can’t give you advice, as I so much struggle with my own weight, and don’t have any ideas…
However, I just wanted to tell you that as I look at your photo, I am stunned at what a pretty woman you are!!! Truly, love and kindness shine out of you, and those are *good* to maintain 🙂
With love and blessings,
Tehila
Amy says
How sweet of you! I appreciate your kind words. 🙂
Amy W. says
I have struggled with my weight for a long time. The book Trim Healthy Mama has finally helped me. I would definitely suggest getting this book. This lifestyle will help regulate insulin and other hormones and the weight will melt off. Loving the recipes they suggest and finding ones of my own now and tweaking old favorite recipes. My husband is even losing weight. Good luck!
angela says
have you had your thyroid checked?? thats always the first step! we have also had great success with the Paleo diet. its a life change. dont worry about calories worry more about complex carbs. cut them out. wheat, grains, legumes, sugar……..we just eat meat and veggies with some fruit for a treat. my husband looks and feels great! the science behind it it really interesting too. check out the book by Rob Wolf.
dont be discouraged and keep at it.
Michelle says
Are you using weights when working out . Its a proven fact it won’t make you manly, but women who use weights an alternating it in with cardio lose almost 20% more. Also please stay away from fad diets… low carb low this less that. Whole real foods. Try smoothies in the morning upping your water intake and exercise. Also if your drinking low fat milk stop we need the proteins in real whole milk to help aid in our weight loss. If there are some products that are all natural organic and gmo free then go ahead and use them but most of the diet nonsense is world view things. I am currently doing made to crave by Lysa Terkerst very cool book. There is also a good documentary on the diet industry on netflix called hungry for change.
Amy says
I am using weights some. I definitely need to drink more water too!
Cynthia says
My hubby and I just wrapped up the Whole30 diet, and man oh man! That changed our outlook on food in some serious ways!
Jacie says
Me too!!!! Same boat, Amy, same boat. Except I was eating THM when I plateaued so I know that by me “letting go of counting calories” is what caused it. I started losing like a pound a week instead of a day. So I am back on eating 500 less calories than I need to maintain my weight ( so I eat 970 calories a day, which is plenty) and no more than 50 carbs a day. By doing this I lose a pound a day or every other day! Once I reach my big goal (15 more lbs to go) I can eat 1400 calories a day and still count carbs to maintain my weight.
Coby says
Increase either the intensity or duration of whatever exercise you’re during. Weight lifting – even light weights, especially the fat-burning muscles like chest and back, and even your lower body – will increase your metabolism. Kudos to you for your weight loss!!!
Meagen says
I recommend Hallelujah Acres or reboot…..watch the documentary fat sick and nearly dead. Relax stress keeps weight on…I have seen and met people that have did Hallelujah acres lifestyle and the result are amazing. Everything God made is good! I have a friend that is doing awesome with diet free life I think is the name she has done awesome and not “avoided” this and that. They have actually called her and wanted her to go to California to be a spokes person it is a balance and not low carb / no carb/ low cal…..I personally have seen people try these diets and back to the same everytime…..she has done fabulous!!
lara says
I am guessing while maybe you need to make better choices and start moving more again that your body is holding on to it while BFing. Your body will feel like it needs a “stash” to feed baby in case of a crisis, not sure over riding that is a good idea but congrats on all your hard work, you look great!
Tamara says
Amy you look great! I agree what others are saying if you are breastfeeding! I have been reading Jorge Cruise’s “The 100” and it’s making a lot of sense on cutting sugars! I have been losing stubborn fat that I have not had success with trying to follow other ways of improving my eating habits. Good luck!
Amy says
Oh, the sugars! Such a weakness for me!
Amanda says
I hit a plateau while nursing as well with about 25 lbs to go to pre-1st-pregnancy weight. I switched to gluten free and the weight came off in about 4 months with no other changes. I didn’t add in exercise as I was not doing any to begin with and I didn’t cut calories. I didn’t even cut out foods, I just switched to the gluten free version of foods. I have been gluten free for about a year and a half and I’m pregnant again. This is my first GF pregnancy and I’m only 17 weeks but I haven’t gained any weight yet (and I still don’t exercise) and I feel great. Being that I’m not gluten intolerant I am not crazy about making extra sure everything is totally gluten free but just cutting out the main flour/wheat contributors can really help. Good luck! You look great!
Michelle says
This may have been mentioned already, but Trim Healthy Mama has lots of great info about healthy weight loss. I have seen amazing results already by starting to use many of the S recipes while pregnant with gestational diabetes. I am now starting to add more E and Fuel Pull recipes to bring more balance while still hopefully trimming down.
Katie says
High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)! This is where you alternate between high intensity cardio and lower intensity cardio within the same workout, in alternating intervals. You can google it for instructions. I use the Interval Timer app on my iPhone to keep track of intervals while I’m on the elliptical or treadmill. But you can do it walking/jogging as well.
When I’m relying on fruits and veggies for the bulk of my calories and avoiding meat, dairy and refined sugar, and actually letting my body get hungry before feeding it, combining those efforts with HIIT is where the rubber meets the road for me. HIIT doesn’t burn calories just while you exercise. It pumps up your metabolism to work harder even when you’re not working out.
Three times a week, about 20 minutes, is all you need of HIIT. If you can incorporate weight training a couple of times a week in addition, so much the better. For me, it really is key to get in touch with actual hunger. Feeling that sensation regularly and being OK with it…listening to what my body needed and not just what sounded tasty was a huge help.
In summary, what I know and trust will work is:
1. Get hungry.
2. Eat well (fruits, veggies, and a little lean protein)
3. HIIT (19 minutes, 3 x week)
Katie says
PS…I started HIIT at my husband’s encouragement (we both wanted to get healthier, and he came across it in his research), when I was several weeks post partum. At about 10 weeks post partum, I got pregnant again, so I have an 8 month old (breastfeeding) and am currently 6 months along with #5. When I’ve had the energy and motivation (these come in waves), HIIT has still been very doable even as I’m expecting. I adjust intensity depending on what is hard for me at the time.
HIIT has had the greatest impact on my overall fitness of any workout routine I’ve ever done. And eating only when I’m hungry and STOPPING when I’m satisfied (it really doesn’t take much), the greatest effect on actual calorie reduction and weight loss.
Blessings and encouragement to you as you encourage so many others to break through plateaus.
Amy says
Wow! That’s really inspiring!
Kristi says
WATER!!! Lean protein. Food journaling. Activity journaling. Accountability groups (I run several if you’re interested). Interval training — I do something different EVERY day, it confuses my muscles and keeps me strong (and it’s not “boring” that way, either). Get back on track with Ty, doing things together — maybe a healthy competition, too?? I gave my hubby a challenge, and he’s CRUSHING it! Have fun meal planning with new recipes that incorporate LOTS of fish, fruits and veggies. And if I can help in ANY way, just ask! It’s what I do! You got this, girl!!
Amy says
Thanks, Kristi! I’m back to exercising regularly, but I REALLY need to cut the sugars. Oy!
Dana C. says
In April I started on the Paleo Diet. I have a milk allergy and I was looking to go gluten free too. I came across this diet and have just made it to a 30 pound weight loss in 3 months. I have not been exercising at all. This has all been done on this diet. I have been amazed how simple this has been and my food cravings (sweets and such) are gone. I don’t snack as much either now.
Amy tuggle says
Track food on myfitnesspal
Lower your carb intake
Get moving!
Eat clean
Rondi says
My husband and I did a no sugar diet for one month. He lost 20lbs and I lost 14lbs! Crazy. Anyway, no obvious sugar, but no breads,, potatoes, rice either. Tons of Granny Smith apples… Also a “burst” exercise training. 20 seconds run in place as fast as you can, 20 seconds recover. 20 on/20 off, 20 on/20 off. Rest for 2 min. Repeat 2 more times. Every other day! Boosts your metabolism. I’ve kept off most of what I lost and have added back in stuff. Good luck. I never (in my 20’s or 30’s) I would be having to think about weight loss, but 4 kids and 40 years change a person… Just a smidge… 😉