One week ago, I began doing the Ideal Protein program. It is similar to many other healthy eating products/programs that you might be familiar with, but it is the one that I chose a decade ago. My familiarity with its simplicity and effectiveness drew me back in.
In addition to a selection of mineral supplements, I use three different Ideal Protein "meals" throughout the day. They could be a shake, protein bar, or even a bag of chips (believe it or not). I also eat a lot more vegetables to round everything out. The absence of "garbage" foods and the abundance of healthy vegetables is not only helping me, it is helping Heather. There are far fewer temptations than when I am eating normally.
I'm spending more on the Ideal Protein products but I'm spending nothing on alcohol or eating out. In the process, I am slimming down ever so slowly. When I step on the scale later this morning, my guess is that I'm down 5 to 7 pounds in the first week. The weight loss slows in the next few weeks, which makes it harder to stay motivated, but I have a level of commitment that should see me through to the next goal. I'm really looking forward to being in the 180-189 pound range again. After that, it will feel even better to return to the 170-179 pound territory. Will I go beyond that? I'm not sure yet. I think the lowest I went ten years ago was around 168.
How do I feel? Pretty good. In the middle of this first week on the program I got my second Pfizer vaccine shot. That left me feeling somewhat foggy and fatigued the day after. I'm not suffering from dramatic hunger pangs or constant thoughts about food and I look forward to my twice daily dose of veggies in the same way I previously coveted my favourite Costco nut mix.
My clothes are feeling a little bit looser, but I have a long way to go. One day at a time. That's the best way to effect long term change.
For more from Russell, see: Middle Age Bulge.
Where can I get info on the Ideal Protein program?