With the Hashimoto Syndrome and all .. you've see what we, as a family unit, have been through so far. So maybe by sharing this part with you too, you'll find assistance before it's gone on "forever".

In my attempt to bring the diet, weight, mood etc. under control one of my stops was with an outstanding nutritionist with the University of Washington Medical Center. She and the gastric specialist were both insistent that I attempt a more stringent diet modification before any surgical alternative was considered.

In that effort, I have started a food journal. Part of what I'll share with you here, are some of my menu creations. Please consult with a nutritionist to find what YOU should be doing. My prescribed calorie intake is about 1000-1200 calories per day.

My chiropractor asked if I was having problems sticking to it.. I told him "if I can quit smoking (over 3 years now -- sorta like AA .. recovering could pick it up again in a flash) .. then I can do this. The worst thing that can happen is I get healthier.

I have been on this for 2 weeks roughly and find that I am really reading labels .. buying alternatives with lower salt and fats (OMG read the sodium on a Campbells soup label!!) And remember that these values I've found are based on a 2,000 calorie+ diet!!
What I've noticed so far:

I don't tollerate hi fat foods (fried etc) and feel "rolly polly sluggish" afterwards. You'll find yours. Journal them.

slowing down eating is a huge key. It takes time for the stomach to tell you "NUFF". Having a conversation during the meal is a GOOD thing :)

Don't skimp on water

Find something that feels like a cheat treat that isn't. I've got some of those to share with you too :)

DO communicate with your home partner what you are doing. Get their support as they will be a huge part of your support system. If they aren't .. find a group!!

Keep a journal of foods and weight (yours). It's important to weigh yourself at the time time each day that you weigh in. I recommend first thing in the morning (after your daily bathroom routine) as you've not taken in anything heavier usually than a small cup of coffee. This will give you a fairly reasonable and close to accurate measure.

Cooking for the family is fine! I find that I cook in a more healthy manner for them .. and I can eat too. I just take a smaller portion (and skip some items) . It's really not hard once you get the routine going!

Make menus. When shopping have a good idea of menus you want to make the what you need. This keeps me from overbuying or "splug" buying. I also have at least a protein/fruit smoothie before I go shopping! It helps me avoid hunger buying and is quick and simple.

I FEEL GREAT!!! Even with not "loosing" I've seen body sculpting and reshaping happening with the change in diet. I also feel POSITIVE and UP! If you've read what came before you will understand how fabulous this feeling is! I get "looks" when I go out now .. think I'm glowing

Food Journals:
This is a sample week of my journal. As I share this with my nutritionist I keep daily notes to help me convey things to her as I think them.. not a week later. Menus and Ideas

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[ Food journals and menu ideas] [ The menu that's working! ]
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