OK, I know that I’ve only just started, but these first few weeks have been very positive. By making tiny changes, that I hardly notice, I’ve lost 7 pounds in five weeks - two pounds more than I planned.
I can look back and see the cumulative effects of these changes. For weight loss, I’m exercising more. Still not massive amounts, but 30 minutes per day walking is about twice what I used to do. I can tell I’m walking faster, and I will continue to increase distance and speed gradually for a few more weeks. I don’t have a target in mind - that isn’t what motivates me - but if you think a target will help you then think of something that is easily achievable. There is nothing to stop you from beating your own easy target, and you are more likely to succeed that if you get discouraged by failing to meet an unrealistic target.
The easiest changes to make have been introducing snacks. No other diets for gout that I have seen have looked at this aspect, but I think it is very important. Starvation and binge eating can both raise uric acid levels, and so this aspect of the GoutPal diet really helps. As long as you balance the snacks with smaller meals, they can also help with weight loss, as your body burns these mid-meal calories better. Snacks are also a good opportunity to add positive nutrients and natural compounds that can help gout. I’ve already mentioned figs, and later in the month I’ll start some lists of other gout friendly foods.
As for meals, I know I’m still eating too much. But that encourages me - I know I’ve still got plenty of opportunities to continue to slowly improve. And continue to slowly lose weight.
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I found your site this morning after spending a sleepless night “nursing” several painful joints. A very satisfying find for someone who has been suffering from increasingly painul joint problems over the past 15 years.
Four year ago I had reached my highest wieght of 255 lbs when I decided to lose weight. Using a treadmill, weights and a program called CalorieKing, I had dropped to 210 lbs by the summer of 2006. I am, unfortunately, back up to 225 today in large part due to eight months of gout attacks which have been moving from joint to joint with only a few days break between attacks. Finding your site has inspired me to re-focus my efforts on weight-loss and excercise. My goal is 190 lbs.
Thanks for providing all the useful information and good luck on your weight-loss efforts.
Jon
Go for it, Jon
Just remember - it’s not about a temporary change to lose a few pounds. It’s gradual change - a little less food eaten a little more frequently with a little more exercise to change your habits for life.
Add a slow move to more fruit and vegetables, especially herbs and spices, and you’ll really help your gout.
Reporting here every week has helped me stay focused. Why not give us your update every week? (and that applies to everybody else who wants to join in.