hi! I’m in a SUPER rush because my car died and AAA had to come and put in a new battery…I really really don’t want to be late for my first night of class! here’s a quick recap: lunch was a tofurky-“cheese” sandwich (surprisingly kept me full for 3.5 hours and was SOOO good!!!) and a pear. Midway through the afternoon I ate some crackers and hummus for a snack and then I had such a great homemade dinner planned but all I had time to do was slam down a quick sunshine burger. I HATE rushing while I’m eating but tonight it seems I have no choice…I put some honey mustard and “cheese” (I won’t buy this again..it tastes funny) on my burger and used a sprouted grain bun, which was AMAZING. I will never go back to regular english muffins again! I also had some grapes!
Sorry for the rush!!!! More tomorrow! 🙂
VeggieGirl
February 18, 2008 at 10:41 pmOh no!! Hang in there, Jenna!! I hope your car gets fixed soon, and that your first class is great, fun, and nothing but enjoyable!! :0)
Tofurky has quite a bit of fiber and protein, so there’s no doubt that it would tame your hunger for that long; and the other meal components are satiating as well!! Oh and I should have told you this before (sorry!!) – that brand of vegan “cheese” you bought is notoriously BAD. ick. Definitely buy the Follow Your Heart and/or the VeganRella brands of “cheese” my family and I (yes, my omnivore family and I, haha) LOVE those brands of “cheese.”
Good luck tonight!!
Amy
February 18, 2008 at 10:53 pmJenna, I knew you would post while I was posting! I’m so sorry about your car. I’ve had too many experiences with AAA and they are not fun. I just posted the following under breakfast:
Hey y’all,
Might have to repost if this post gets low readership (I’m guessing Jenna will be posting again soon) but can anyone recommend a favorite gluten-free blog or recipe/lifestyle resource? I know there are many resources and blogs out there and I’ve seen a lot of them, but I haven’t found a favorite or a ‘most useful’ one. Before I start investigating what’s out there, I thought I’d ask. I need to learn about gluten-free cooking and baking. (And reading new blogs could take me away from Jenna and Kath!) Anyone else gluten intolerant??
I found out I had a gluten sensitivity a couple years ago – and thought it was just a sensitivity (and I went through a period of trying to deny the problem – I didn’t want to be the gluten girl that can’t eat bread!) – but I found out just a couple weeks ago that ingesting it has been wreaking havoc on my body, and I have to cut out gluten/wheat = a lot of foods!!
I am open to gluten-free products, but I will be the first to admit many of them don’t compare to the ‘regular’ gluten products.
# Amyon 18 Feb 2008 at 10:47 pm
Oh, and that raises an issue – Jenna, I know you say the gluten is essential to your chickpea patties…..but if I must avoid it, is there a possible substitute ingredient?? An acceptible poser to do the binding?? They sound so good!
shred
February 18, 2008 at 10:58 pmAmy,
there’s a uk website called “vegan family” that has some really good gluten free recipes.
I’ve found that in most recipes you can replace wheat flour with a mixutre of 1/4 rice flour, 1/4 soy flour, 1/4 garbanzo bean (chickpea) flour and 1/4 whatever you want (including repeating one of the previous three). add an extra egg white or two, as these flours are less binding (no gluten, duh) and less fluffy (no gluten, duh).
if you don’t use eggs, add some applesauce or some extra liquid (soymilk, milk). I always eye-balled it — adding until the consistency was what i wanted. (I used to do a lot of gluten-free baking, but I don’t anymore).
try sprouted stuff! Ezekial makes some gluten free sprouted breads. eat them right out of the toaster, though.
and, if all else fails, dark chocolate 😉
good luck.
VeggieGirl
February 18, 2008 at 11:11 pm*Amy:
I responded to your comment about the gluten-free blogs, in the previous post :0)
Emily W.
February 18, 2008 at 11:13 pmJess-
I just made your cookies and they are great! (but different than I was expecting!) They taste more like banana bread (probably form the banana and low sugar). However, I had to use 1/4c apple sauce and 1/4c yogurt instead of 1/2c applesauce b/c I ran out…..do you think this would have made a difference? I dont really think so, but just a thought! Anyways….they are really yummy! I think they would be nice for breakfast too (esp. if you mix some flax seed/wheat germ and/or nuts into the mix!) I also wanted to ask you where you found the recipe! It was a very healthy and tasty recipe!
Jess
February 18, 2008 at 11:16 pmHey jenna! SO sorry you had to rush while eating. I Hate that, but had to do it at work today too (snacking on Anything in between making people’s lattes!).
Emily, I actually just answered that on the previous post- haha. I’m not sure if the yogurt would make them seem even more substantial (like bready) because it’s thicker, but it is a different consistency than applesauce, so it Could have made a difference. I think adding nuts or flax would be an amazing idea because then they really could work to keep you full like a breakfast- since they aren’t Super sweet they may not be some people’s idea of dessert, but I’ve never been a fan of super sweet things myself. I’m SO glad you tried them though!!!
-jess
Colleen
February 18, 2008 at 11:54 pmAw, the burger looks so cute! I looked for them this weekend at stop and shop and target, but no luck! Trader Joe’s is on the agenda for next weekend, though, so maybe I’ll have better luck there.
Hope class goes well!
Megs
February 18, 2008 at 11:59 pmColleen,
I found them at Giant (PA version of Stop N Shop; owned by same peeps), but ONLY at the ones that have a larger natural foods section. Other than that I have only seen them at Whole Foods.
None of the TJ’s near me have them; the carry their own brand or Dr. Praggers.
Rach
February 19, 2008 at 12:06 amAmy,
Did you have a specific test that told you that you were gluten-intolerant? I’m just curious because I’m gluten-intolerant as well (I don’t have celiac disease but I have such severe symptoms that I basically can’t eat gluten at all) and have been having a difficult time finding a reliable test that will show me the extent of my intolerance. As far as the gluten-free blogs go, I’ve read a bit of “Gluten-Free Girl” and really liked it, but I’ve also found that Jenna’s and Kath’s recipes are pretty easy to adapt for a gluten-free diet…I’ll usually do that w/recipes in general too and make up my own concoctions.
Colleen
February 19, 2008 at 12:22 amMegs-
Oh, alright thanks for the heads up!
Annie
February 19, 2008 at 12:55 amHey everyone, I was wondering if anyone had any insight on this, tips, ideas, thoughts. A couple months ago, I was really restricting my eating, probly about 800 calories a day. I have definilty improved ALOT, eating full meals everyday, even having desert almost every day. But I have found that its still hard for me to eat more then 1100 to 1200 cals per day, Im NEVER hungry enough. Most of the day I am forcing myself to finish my meals, even small amounts because Im so stuffed. I have tried snacking, but that just makes it even harder for me to eat a meal later on.
Has anyone dealt with this. Iknow adding higher cal/fat things help, but im not the biggest fan of nuts, pb, things like that that people always tell me to eat. I really just love fruits, vegies, yogurt, cottage cheese, and I always have either bread or rice or somthing with most meals to up the calories and get more carbs.
I have started adding flax to my yogurt whenever I eat it, for some healthy fats. Does any one have any idea how to make my appetite grow???? My family doesnt exactly support the idea of me working out because It will drop my weight back down, so I cant rely on that to boost my appetite. Any ideas?
Sorry this turned so long. Thanks in advance, I really appreciate it!
ps Jenna sorry you had to rush tonight- I hate that. Hope you enjoyed your first night of classes though!
Jess
February 19, 2008 at 1:18 amAnnie, congrats n your progress. There’s definately still a long road ahead though, 1200 cals is hardly healthy and sustainable, but you’ve come so far already and I know you can do it! I’m the same way about loving fruit, veggies, and generally low cal food. However, try experimenting with sauces and things! Definately add olive oil and lots of garlic and herbs when sauteeing veggies (heavy on the oil!)- it doesn’t ‘weigh’ down the food yet you’re still adding healthy fats. You can also try doing cheese sauces or gratins and such? Until your appetite comes back, have you thought about full or low fat yogurt/cottage cheese instead of nonfat? Dip your fruit in dark chocolate! Try to steer clear of cardio for the time being (esp. if it would bring problems in the family, ya know? That’s my battle too- how old are you? btw) but if it makes you feel better maybe see if it would be okay to do some light weight lifting- not only will you be building muscle, but it may make you feel better about upping that cal intake (significantly!). You’re inspiring, keep it up!
Tina O.
February 19, 2008 at 1:29 amJess,~
I just ate 2 of your cookies I made tonight~they are AMAZING! The texture is so unusual, but in a good way. I added a little honey (just cuz I like the taste) and I mixed in dried cherries and choc. chips at the end. I just had some with some hemp milk for a snack. I could eat all of them! I really hope my kids like them, I plan on making many more with different things added in for breakfast cookies. Thanks SO much for the recipe!
Brianne
February 19, 2008 at 1:57 amJenna- sorry you’ve had kind of a crappy day! I bought that kind of vegan cheese too and it is gross! Isn’t tofurky great?? Did you try soy yogurt yet?
Annie
February 19, 2008 at 2:05 amHey Jess, seriously thank you for the kind words and great tips. Sorry I ddint mention before, but im 19 5’4 and weigh about 105.
I always forget about olive oil, but I loooove how it makes vegies taste. Thats an awsome idea. I am doing the best that I can with all of this, and reading Jennas blog and getting food ideas from her, and just about everyone else on here has definityly been a great help. I really appreciate your ideas though, and am definlty going to give some of them a try, starting with olive oil and higher fat cottage cheese and yogurt.
Again, Thanks for your help and being supportive!
blueberrybabe
February 19, 2008 at 2:21 amok i JUST walked in from dinner and before i read the other posts i HAVE to share my great news with the new family here! I went out to dinner with my boyfriend (i probably go out to dinner around 3 times a month fyi) and we went to a thai place. MINI TRIUMPH #1: instead of brown rice i ordered brown FRIED rice! it tasted soooooo yummy i was so happy and the fact that it was still brown rice and not white really helped me not be scared or anxious. soooo tasty seriously i couldn’t believe it!!!! ok and MINI TRIUMPH #2: instead of doing my usual controlling/obsessive/STUPID portioning-out-of-the-rice-onto-a-side-plate-so-i-know-how-much-i-am-eating… i SHARED with my boyfriend out of this massive plate and i just ate until i was full. it was especially a challenge since i was sharing with him which REALLY made it hard for me to know exactly how much i was eating. but i just kept eating because it was so good. my guess is that i probably had more than a usual serving of mine but i am so proud of myself and literally i think THIS BLOG is what made me do it! Yay for nourishment! Ok phew!!! Now that I got that out of my system i am going to read all the other posts. You guys are all soooooo inspiring mwa mwa mwa!!!
Grace
February 19, 2008 at 2:22 amDoes anyone know of a good vegan cheese to try? I haven’t been able to find a tasty one.
Annie: It sounds like you are doing great. I recommend eating nuts if you don’t already. They are easy to eat more of and have lots of healthy fats. Some light activity, like walking, might also make you hungrier, but check with the doctor first. Keep up the good work!
cait
February 19, 2008 at 2:25 amHey annie, I have the same exact stats as you..age 21, 5’4” and 105. I was restricting for the past few years, but not as low as 800. I’m trying harder now too to increase my calories, and not freak out when I have dessert or splurge. It’s really hard since it’s all I ever think about. I also do cardio 6 days and week for 45-60 minutes a day so my calorie intake would be quite a bit more than yours. Olive oil is a great addition, and I know you said you didn’t like peanut butter, but that’s another good one too. If you can’t work out, try yoga or pilates. It’s great to hear someone else out there is going through the same thing.
Rose
February 19, 2008 at 2:26 amHi everyone! I’ve been reading for a while and decided to delurk 🙂
Jenna- your blog is great and is a huge inspiration to me to continue varying my diet and trying new things. I look forward to your blog and hope your first class was awesome.
Amy – I’m in the same boat as you! Not celiac’s (or at least I think as I have never had the test) but still extremely gluten intolerant. I also do not eat any dairy products as they make my stomach upset. Gluten Free Girl is a nice blog as is Gluten Go Go. My favorites are Gluten Free Goddess and Gluten Free Hippie as it is easy to change their recipes to suit your taste. Gluten Free veggie burgers are hard to make but I have a few recipes I could post if you like. There are a few Gluten free products worth buying already but usually it tastes better to make themself. I hope this helps but let me know if you have any other questions I read this blog everyday so I’ll be sure to check the comments!
Jess – you should be able to do some light weightlifting or even just some light walking which increase your appetite and help you gain muscle which should help you gain weight. I was the same way right after I was diagnosed with gluten-intolerance and it was next to impossible to get myself to eat but light working out and being generally active helped get my body hungry which helped me put on some much needed weight.
Sorry for the long comment! Hope everyone is having a nice night 🙂
Lori- the pleasantly plump vegan
February 19, 2008 at 2:28 amthe pear and grapes are lovely!
Tina O.
February 19, 2008 at 2:29 amAnnie,
I don’t know if it helps, but when I was pregnant with twins, I was ordered to gain 45 pounds. So I ate a ton of 4% milkfat cottage cheese & Stouffer’s mac & cheese. As you can tell, I really love cheese and all dairy. Like Jess said, olive oil, walnut oil, any kind of healthy oil is really good. I don’t know if you like tomatoes and onions, but growing up my grandma always made tomato onion salad. It may sound gross, but its so good! You chop up tomatoes and onions, pour lots of oil over them. I like canola or walnut oil. Sprinkle oregano over it and refrigerate for about 1/2 hour. Not too long, or the oil will solidify. Then you dip Italian bread into the oil and eat the tomatoes and onions with it. Like I said, it may sound gross, buts its really good and has lots of calories! Good luck!
Jess
February 19, 2008 at 2:31 amAnnie and Cait, I’m also the exact same stats, weird (although 19 and 5’4 1/2- i’m holding onto that half inch! haha).
Grace, unfortunately I don’t know of any good vegan cheeses. My only foray into vegan-dom was baking those cookies (which I’m SO glad that people are trying, let alone Liking! Haha). Although I’m afraid I wouldn’t be much help anyway because I don’t really like cheese in general, so chances are I wouldn’t like a ‘good’ substitute anyway.
Blueberry that is SO awesome that you were able to Enjoy your thai food, but most importantly enjoy the time with your family! Go you!
Tina- YUM dried cherries sound like an Amazing addition- I’m definately going to throw in some dried cranberries next time- thanks for the idea!
-jess
Alyssa
February 19, 2008 at 2:31 amYay blueberrybabe!!!!! You are an inspiration! Your intuitive eating is ssoooo inspiring (have I said inspiring?) and makes me want to try even hard to stop being restrictive. Yay!!!! I might just go and sneak some cookie dough from the fridge I have been craving because your example reminds me I should listen to myself. Keep it up! Now I have to work on that too… 😛
Annie
February 19, 2008 at 2:38 amBlueberrybabe, thats awsome that you went out to dinner and just enjoyed yourself. It takes a lot to be able to do that, Congrats!
Thanks for all the advice everyone, I forgot about yoga and pilates. Ive done the videos a few times and really enjoyed them, its relaxing exercise!
And Tina, that salad sounds AWSOME. I loooove tomatoes and onions, so maybe ill try and make that as a side dish to some type of chicken or fish? That could be good with some crusty italian bread. Thanks!
blueberrybabe
February 19, 2008 at 2:41 amok getting back to everyone…
Jenna- that is sooo stinky you had to rush your dinner. there is nothing worse than having to eat super fast but the silver lining is that your next meal you will appreciate the time you do have and you can savor all the yummy flavors and be grateful for the relaxing eating environment 🙂
VeggieGirl- you are a brand whore!!!! lol. i considered not writing whore but i hope you laugh because it is just so awesome how well you know all your brands!!! i am DEF goin to you for recommendations!!!
Amy- I’m sorry I don’t know anything about gluten-free diets… but to throw a question back at you- could you explain to me why some people need to avoid gluten? i always see so much stuff at whole foods that is gluten free and have always wondered what that was all about?
Colleen and Megs- I am still trying to find the sunshine burgers as well. TWICE when I checked at whole foods they were out! I guess they are popular. What variety are you guys going to buy?
Annie- it sounds like you have gotten a lot of great suggestions so far. It is really great that you found this blog because the girls/women here are SO supportive and SO wonderful and NOT judgemental at all. i think you probably don’t even know what hunger feels like which is going to make it a difficult road ahead for you. the thing that SUCKS but is a reality is that it doesn’t really matter if YOU are hungry or not- what matters is that your BODY is STARVING. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week… until you reach a healthy weight. I don’t know if this would help you at all but in the past i have literally thought of specifics in my body that need nourishment. for example “I am not hungry at all for lunch… but i know my heart really really needs some nourishment right now” or “there is no way i can eat right now i am not even a little bit hungry…. but i know my brain needs fuel to help me think”. everyone is so different so this may not help you at all but you really gotta have the big picture in mind. try to pull yourself out of the immediate meal time decision of are you hungry or not and think big: do i want to have a wonderful healthy body and live a long beautiful life?!!!
can’t say it enough, love you guys 🙂
Tina O.
February 19, 2008 at 2:51 amI tried the sunshine burgers, I gotta say, I did not love them. They have a big pack of refrigerated veggie burgers at Costco that I really like, but I would not buy the sunshine burgers again. Sorry, I know you gals love them!
Alyssa
February 19, 2008 at 2:54 amAnnie,
I’ve been through the same thing when my ed was bad. You might have heard this before, but if you have been restricting a lot for a long time and the you start eating more, it takes a looooonnnggg time for your metabolism to kick back in. It also takes a while for you to gain gain weight because your body is so used to you restricting it. I remember I had to eat a lot of food for me to even START gaining weight! Once your metabolism kicks in and your body realizes that you are consistently feeding it the energy it needs, then you will start to get your hunger back, I promise! Which is a good thing no matter what anyone or anything tells you! Any expert on ed’s, restrictive eating, etc. will tell you that once you start eating healthfully you will start to get your hunger cues back, you know, the grumbling tummy, sensation that you are running out of fuel, etc. All that will come back once your metabolism comes back. I know it is frustrating, scary, and a pain in the butt, but we are all rooting for you to stay strong!
Amanda M
February 19, 2008 at 3:00 amTo all of you inspiring women –
I have dealt with restrictive eating in the past as well. My nutritionist used to suggest ways to increase my calories and forbid me from exercise and it was SO tough to be okay with it mentally. All I can say is that you have to enjoy the ways that you are taking in calories and really believe that it is what you body needs!! I used to love SmartPop Kettle Korn popcorn and I would throw in a few handfuls of chocolate chips so that they would melt in the warm popcorn – yum! It took a while for me to be okay with my body at it’s “natural weight” .. even though I am thin naturally, but I agree with what Jenna has said that YOGA is great!! Especially if you can physically be at a class and not just do a dvd..it always makes me really appreciate my body! All of you who are struggling, I am here with you – and SO glad to have found support here on this blog and a HEALTHY representation of daily eating habits – thanks Jenna!!!
Amanda
Annie
February 19, 2008 at 3:10 amSeriously, I love all of you, and Jenna for allowing this blog to become such a support center. Everyone is so amazing, from problems about ED’s, to things having nothing to do with food. It is such a great place to come to for help without feeling embarassed or like Im about to be judged. You all are so amazing!
Jess and Cait, can I ask how many calories you aim to eat every day? I know that is not specificaly the calories that are important, but the quality of foods and that we are all different and have different lifestyles, but im just confused because all the calculators tel lme dif things and I dont know any one else with the same stats as me. I am assuming that right now, not being to active, probly 1600 is good for me to start aiming towards, but really have no idea. I have heard from dif places anywhere from 1200 calories (which I know isnt enough) to 2200, which seems WAY to high.
Again, thanks. People on here are so awsome! I do miss my grumbling tummy 🙁
VeggieGirl
February 19, 2008 at 3:15 am**Grace:
Definitely go for the Follow Your Heart and Veganrella brands of vegan “cheese.” My omnivore family loves them, as do I (I’m a vegan though, haha), so that’s saying quite a bit, in the products’ favor :0)
**Blueberrybabe:
Haha, you’re too funny!! Don’t worry, I wasn’t offended – you made me smile :0D
And keep up the great work, girl!! You’re on your way to being/staying healthy and vibrant!!
Courtney
February 19, 2008 at 3:17 amwe’re so lucky to have such a supportive group of girls on this blog! seriously, it’s so nice to read through and see all of you helping each other out with advice and great suggestions! i really don’t mind the ED talk at all and i think it’s important for girls to TALK about their ED’s. talking about eating and sharing experiences is definitely a step in the right direction! thanks girls for being so nice and helpful, it makes this blog even more positive!
Jess
February 19, 2008 at 3:23 amAnnie and Cait, do you guys have specific goals that you’re aiming for? For example, I’m working towards 120 and hopefully a 5 k (starting with small goals as far as exercise goes, haha) and the ability to enjoy my food And the company I’m with- And LIFE and just feeling present! Annie, I’ve also heard a lot of different numbers. NOT active, around 1600 is for us to Maintain! I nearly didn’t believe it but I ate that much for a couple weeks and still lost. So now I’m eating anywhere between 1800-2200, and really trying not to stress out about a certain Number or anything because that’s also not the best way to go about it. Basically I just try to hit around 1500 before dinner because I know that if I don’t count AT ALL I will probably not end up eating enough. I would love to do the intuitive eating thing/experiment with different types of lifestyles (perhaps pescatarian/vegi/vegan/just no dairy- whatev!) but at the moment it’s really best for us to get up to a healthy weight before limiting anything too completely, ya know? If you ever want to mail me so we don’t super take up the comments section talking about this stuff (I don’t know if numbers are triggering for some/some people may get annoyed with too too much ed talk) then def. email me! jboudevin@yahoo.com
Amanda- it’s so great that you mentioned that yoga is better in a class than on a tape. I tried it on a tape once and then went to a class and, you’re right, Totally different experience.
Blueberry- you’re absolutely right, it helps to think of it as nourishment. That also helps me make healthy decisions whilst gaining also as opposed to gallons of ice cream (although still knowing that a few bites is Excellent!)
And to everyone who tried the cookie recipe I posted this morning- I am SO excited. I’ve actually given them to Two vegans and gotten a good response as well. I mean, of course they may not be as amazing as someone with a ton of baking skill, but I was pretty dang proud 😉
Thank you so much everyone, for the good vibes!
-jess
Lisa
February 19, 2008 at 3:25 amHey Jenna, I made your White Bean chili tonight for my hubby and I and it was a huge success!!! I’m so excited!! I’m having leftovers tomorrow for lunch!
Also…I want to make something tomorrow with some quinoa that I bought last week. Do any of you have any suggestions??
THANKS!
Nicole
February 19, 2008 at 3:27 amHey Annie–
You’ve gotten so many great suggestions already, most of which I was thinking of myself! I’m exactly where you are–I was down below 800 for awhile, and probably not even at 1200 now (I am 5’…). But I’ve found it’s helpful to add basically the foods they tell most people not to eat–ie: smaller, denser things. You eat more of them, and get the calories you need. Hummus is great—edamame too!! Edamame is SO good for you, tons of protein, and has a pretty decent amount of calories. I don’t like nuts either (and probably couldn’t bring myself to eat them anyway..). Also try little healthy dips (black bean, etc)—as long as they’re all natural (from WF or something similar) they’re actually really good for you. I switched to 1% cottage cheese (and actually like it a lot better now), and also started eating Kashi crackers with a lot of my meals. I’ve also started mixing things into my yogurt–fruit (my favorite is slicing banana REALLY thin–I had a potassium problem so that’s where I got the idea haha), flax, granola, oats, etc… You don’t feel like you’re eating much more, but you’re adding all kinds of nutrients, depending on the ingredients you select. Also, I cannot stress enough how great yoga is for you!! A lot of it is weight bearing, so you’re building bone density—plus takes a lot of strength (muscle!), and doesn’t really wind you (so no weight loss unless you’re doing power vinyasa 7x/week). Not to mention the positive atmosphere–yoga has been an incredible aid in my own recovery, and honestly if med school doesn’t work out I’d love to teach to share my experience with others. Good luck, I know how you feel!!!
(sorry was long)
VeggieGirl
February 19, 2008 at 3:43 am**Lisa:
Definitely go to http://vegweb.com and do a recipe search for “quinoa” – you’ll get so many great recipe ideas that you won’t know where to start!! :0)
VeggieGirl
February 19, 2008 at 3:43 amhere’s a direct link, actually:
http://vegweb.com/index.php?board=396.0
Emily
February 19, 2008 at 4:23 amThanks Nicole for your positive words and outlook on life! 🙂
Jen
February 19, 2008 at 4:41 amThis is for anyone who is a vegetarian or vegan:
Lately, I have been toying with the idea of cutting meat out of my diet, not only because I am a strong supporter of animal rights, but I feel so weighed down when I eat animal products. I am worried that I won’t be able to get as much protein. I already don’t eat much meat anyway, mostly beans and whole grains, fruits and veggies, but can anyone suggest a website or book on how to switch to become a vegetarian? Also, I am trying to lose weight….at least not gain any more for sure, and I know some people who have tried being vegan or vegetarian in the hopes of losing weight and have gained massively. I’m not doing it to lose weight, but I don’t want to gain, does anyone have any suggestions for that as well? Thanks!!
Serena
February 19, 2008 at 4:54 amFor higher calorie snacks, I don’t think anyone else has mentioned this, but dried fruit is a good option. It’s still healthy and has fiber but because of the extra sugar, the calories can add up. Dried pears are delish, as are dried pineapple and dried kiwi if you can find it!
ibex hk
February 19, 2008 at 7:58 amawww man, bummer!! Sorry your afternoon didn’t quite run as planned. I hope that your first class made up for it, so exciting!!
ENJOY 🙂
jenn
February 19, 2008 at 9:09 ami second that Serena! Trader Joe’s has AMAZING dried white peaches OMG SOOOO GOOD!! and dried bartlett pears and dried mango and dried just bananas and dried eeeeverything!
jenn
February 19, 2008 at 9:10 amjESS WHERE is this cookie recipe everyone speaketh of?
EatwellBewell
February 19, 2008 at 10:11 amwow the discussion you guys have going is soo great. Another yummy way to increase your calories, and become a little more comfortable with the idea of “indulging” in the treats your body deserves to have is to mix a Carnation Instant Breakfast (my favorite is the Chocolate, but they have a ton to choose from) with milk as part of your meal or snack throughout the day. It has TONS of great vitamins, minerals and calcium of course, and I like to freeze it for a few hours so when I’m ready to have it, it takes more like a milkshake or icecream!
you girls are so great and supportive and this is exactly what so many people are looking for from these blogs. I think Jenna and everyone else contributing great ideas/advice has been so helpful and can sometimes be the best form of help to know that others understand where you’re coming from and so willing to work together to be healthy and nutritious! 🙂
feel free to email me if you’d like to talk more! eatwellbewell@hotmail.com
Alison
February 19, 2008 at 10:38 amIf you can handle it, drinking a higher fat % milk would be best. I didn’t mean to say that skim milk was best… it’s just easier sometimes to start with a safer drink if you’re uncomfortable drinking calories.
TimeofButterflies
February 19, 2008 at 10:53 amHi Annie (and others),
Not sure if you have read my posts before, but I struggled/am struggling with the same thing you are. I know numbers are triggering to some people, but my anorexia was in large part triggered and perpetuated by my NOW ex-fiance, who thought skeletons are apparently lovely. Well, about a week ago I broke it off with him and began eating more. I certainly don’t have a problem with my hunger–I’ve been eating and eating and eating almost non-stop. Which I know my doctor would love to hear…I am 5’3″ and got down to 90…am still there. I don’t really have a set goal, per se, because my doctor says I ought to be at 115, but 25 pounds is such a lofty first-time goal. I think 100 is a good stepping stone. I’m also a runner/kickboxer/Pilates gal, so I’m definitely not cutting out my physical activity, and I have a hard time knowing how many calories I take in. I’m still taking in far fewer calories than I should. It sucks, but I know this issue will take longer than a week to resolve. Feel free to e me at my user name at Yahoo; I’m also in the Facebook group if you want to get in touch there.
pinklilly
February 19, 2008 at 11:59 amBlueberrybabe –
Congratulations on both of your triumphs! I bet they’re the first of many more to come! Keep it up!
Lynn
February 19, 2008 at 12:21 pmI don’t think anyone has mentioned this yet but another great food to eat is peanut butter! Get some all natural peanut butter and eat away! I too struggled with r.e. recently and went to the doctor and he told me how much i was destroying my body and life and how malnourished i was, it was really scary. I had to gain weight really fast or they were going to put me in the hospital with the threat of a feeding tube and awful things.. so i started eating a TON!! and it felt so good, i have now gained a good fifteen pounds and still going. It is hard at first but try and enjoy it and i promise it is all worth it. I still need to put on a little more weight but i am so much happier today!! Stay strong girls! This is a great place for support and help!!!
Colleen
February 19, 2008 at 12:28 pmAnnie, Jess, Cait, & Timeofbutterflies:
I just wanted to let you guys know that I’m in the same boat! I’m a fellow 5’4-er and looking to get up to at least 105lbs, because right now I’m a few lbs shy of 100– and I know that is not healthy. Glad to meet you all, and I hope we can continue to support each other, as cheesy as it sounds…
I was also wondering what the name of the facebook group was?
VeggieGirl
February 19, 2008 at 12:28 pmSerena is absolutely correct – dried fruit is a GREAT option!! a serving of 13 dried apricots has roughly 240 calories in it, so that can definitely help out with consuming more calories without feeling like you’re stuffing yourself.
cait
February 19, 2008 at 1:38 pmhey girls,
i am very active (about 45-60mins of cardio/strength 6 days a week) so I aim for 1600-1900 calories. 1900 calories is a scary number for me though…I’m just beginninng to get my hunger cues back, but I really wish I could follow the intuitive eating method. My email is cnahas1186@yahoo.com if you want to chat. My doctor said my happy/ideal weight is 115, but even those 10 pounds scare me. I eat healthy almost 95% of the day, so I’m really trying to just realize that if I eat healthy, and splurge a few times a week, I will still be fine! Jess said it perfectly- I’d really just like to enjoy life!!
rachel
February 19, 2008 at 2:37 pmits interesting to read the posts, because i was at the same place as annie and many of you just a few years ago. i am 5″4 and got down to 94 lbs (yikes!). when i was told to gain weight it was very, very hard. i wasn’t hungry AND i couldn’t fathom eating lots of cheese and unhealthy foods. i dont recommend adding unhealthy foods to your diet in effort to gain weight–this only made me feel “guilty” because i was at a point where i slowly had to reconstruct my relationship with food.
i really had to surround myself with people who had healthy outlooks on life–not people who were so concerned with being thin or looking a certain way. this helps—it was positive peer pressure for me to lighten up a little. i also ate very dense, but healthy foods. cereals, luna bars as snacks, i ate salads but piled them seeds and other healthy, calorie dense toppings, i drank more lattes…etc…
now i am at 115 and 5’4 and feel much more confident than i did at such a low weight. i am not as self-conscious–at 94, 100, and even 105 lbs I felt very aware of how tiny I was. I also feel stronger–at 94 lbs I could run very far, but couldn’t lift much! And couldn’t backpack, rock climb or do many of these sports I love very well!
So–be encouraged that though it is a daunting task now, you can make these “gains” in a healthy way.
Erica
February 19, 2008 at 3:18 pmrachel – your story is so inspiring!
how many calories did you eat in order to gain the weight?
Jess
February 19, 2008 at 4:09 pmJenn, the cookie recipe (of which everyone speaketh! 😉 ) is on the breakfast post of this day, I think. I just mixed together what I thought were the best parts of a couple different recipes for vegan cookies and experimented away- I’m considering it a success, or at least worth a try, haha!
Rachel, you have no idea how amazing it is to hear that you feel Happier and more comfortable at a healthier weight. My lowest was actually your lowest and I’ve gained just about ten pounds. I’m already feeling a little more, ya know, alive- but sometimes fathoming how I’ll feel with another ten pounds is a little overwhelming. That’s when I try to remember that focusing on a number isn’t really what it’s all about, is it? I mean, 10 more pounds Sounds like a lot, but imagine what that ten pounds of healthy, lean weight will allow me to do and accomplish! Plus, maybe it’ll even give me a few sexy curves back 😉 Thank you So so much for sharing.
Anyway, I’m putting together a little list of those who have put their emails out there to get and/or give support, and so far I have me, cait, alison, timeofbutterflies(sorry, don’t know your real name, haha), and eatwellbewell. I’m gonna send you ladies an email just to say hi and so we all have eachother’s if we ever need to reach out for support which is inappropriate for the comments section of jenna’s blog or anything- either way, I think it wouldn’t hurt to keep in touch and keep eachother in check 🙂 if anyone else wants to be a part of this little cirlce of positivity, recovery, and health just let me know and I’ll add ya to the list!
-jess
p.s. time to check the bfast post!
rachel
February 19, 2008 at 7:00 pmerica–im not exactly sure. the rd i saw (only once or twice) recommended 1800 calories. this number overwhelmed me because i was used to eating 700 and running 4 miles a day (plus walking around campus! probably an additional 2 miles). i am sure i counted–it was part of my compulsion at the time, but i tried not to because i felt guilty.
it took a while for any weight to stick! i think this is partly because i was inconsistient for a while. once i was more serious i would probably eat about 1600-1700 calories. i also slowed down my exercise habit–in fact, my parents encouraged me not to run until i reached 105 lbs (i still walked though). i added snacks/meals like this to my diet : graham crackers slathered with pb, soy milk, oatmeal made with skim milk and walnuts, WHOLE sandwiches on ww bread with >100 calories, apples and peanut butter, etc….)
hope this helps. i cannot emphasize the importance of good social support. i would not have gained if not for my spiritual life (which still keeps me from going to old habits) and the accountability of my family and friends.
ally
February 20, 2008 at 2:01 pmWhat a wonderful and geneous group of peop you all are! Thank you for sharing your thoughts, words, and encouragemet!
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