So, I've (23F) been going to the gym consistently for a while now. Recently gone from going 3 times a week up to 4 times a week and I love it, I really do. I do mostly weights with some cardio at the start but I'm not really seeing any changes. Sure I've made progress, I'm lifting heavier, running for longer, feeling better but I feel like I still look the same. And to make it worse, I've gained weight. In terms of food, I've always been pretty good. I cook every day, been a vegetarian for life, I've been trying to eat more protein (recently started on a protein shake). But I'm a snacker, I can't help it, no matter how much protein I eat, chocolate is my weakness. I also really struggle with counting calories, no matter how hard I try I can't keep it up. I guess I've got the gym side of things nailed and now it's down to the kitchen. But has all my working out been for nothing? Has it been pointless? How do I not snack on chocolate and the like? How on earth do I consistently and accurately count calories?

Hi all. I am a 40F getting a tonsillectomy this month. This is due to repeated tonsillitis, and now also chronic tonsil pain and tonsil stones. The ENT recommended it first thing when he had a look. So, I have been reading all the horror stories, and am starting to be properly terrified. On the other hand, the past months have been horrendous and I just can't go on like I am at the moment (I have had antibiotics 3x in the last 5 months alone) Has anyone had their tonsils out at my age? Any tips you can pass on?
I also have some specific questions: - besides paracetamol and ibuprofen, I gather that some opioids are also a must. Did you take these regularly as well, or just when pain was too much? - Anything you would stock up on before the surgery? - I have read about throat spray with local anaesthetic - any specific recommendations? - I will get some ice packs, and will also get some protein shakes or similar, for when the swallowing pain is too much. Thanks in advance!!

I'm traveling for the first time since starting semaglutide and I didn't realize it would be so difficult. Obviously I'm not eating AS healthy as I would be when cooking at home, but man, I got off my routine Sunday upon arrival and I've had diarrhea since lol. Does anyone have any advice on what to do while traveling? I even packed my healthy snacks, protein shakes and injections in ice packs to take with me on the road!

Hey folks! 32F here, I've posted/commented on here a handful of times.
In my stop drinking/sobriety journey, something I can be really tough on myself for is certain physical attributes - the "sobriety breakouts" on my face, touching my hair and feeling like it's a bit thin and brittle (because it is- I was *not* prioritizing my protein intake when drinking), those kinds of things. Nothing weight/body shape related. Hair skin nails, like that stuff.
I know that obviously Rome wasn't built (or drank away, lol) in a day and the best way to feel like my best self is gonna be little steps at a time with mental and physical health prioritized, but has anyone found products that are easily available (like I've found a skin line that so far seems to be working pretty great on my sobriety breakouts I can get from the local pharmacy, but who knows if that'll shake out) and reasonably priced? TIA! IWNDWYT

I work a pretty high energy job and do not often get time for a full sit down lunch meal. So I drink protein shakes during my two fifteen minute breaks or some chips something light. This was all fine up until recently where my manager is trying to tell the department that we cannot eat on our breaks or it is now a lunch break and we need to clock out. This doesn’t sound right to me but I have little knowledge of the law. I’m in Texas if that helps thank you

Anyone had success weight lifting 3 hours after your last meal. I typically eat anywhere between 12- 3 pm. Then I will workout after work somewhere around 6 - 8 PM. I was drinking a protein shake before my workouts and have recently gained muscle.
I know want to cut and don’t want to interrupt my fasting for a protein shake. Will I comprise muscle loss if I can continue to workout around same time with last meal 3 hours before and next meal being the next day?

Anyone had success weight lifting 3 hours after your last meal. I typically eat anywhere between 12- 3 pm. Then I will workout after work somewhere around 6 - 8 PM. I was drinking a protein shake before my workouts and have recently gained muscle.
I know want to cut and don’t want to interrupt my fasting for a protein shake. Will I comprise muscle loss if I can continue to workout around same time with last meal 3 hours before and next meal being the next day?

Hello! It's been a while since I've posted. Over the past year or so, I've gotten into endurance events. The issue I'm having is getting worn out around 5 or 6 hours in. What I'm thinking is it's related to nutrition. A handful of gels isn't enough on race day, but I also am trying to stay hydrated to prevent cramps. I have a 12 hour and a 24 hour coming up in the next few weeks.
Some of the things I'm thinking about trying: baby food/yogurt pouches, trail mix... but I'm out of ideas for easy on the tummy & not straight sugar. I'm thinking I need some protein, maybe some turkey? Not sure milk or protein shake would sit well...
So, endurance folks, what say ye? How do you fuel before and during a race?

Hi crew!
I had my surgery May 7. Still sore in the tummy and have today increased my liquid diet to 250ml a serving. Really focussing on the good stuff. Protein shakes and protein water along with twice daily mens multivitamin and calcium. Have been walking a very slow 1/2 mile daily but still a bit to sore to increase that.
Including the two week pre diet am down 37 pounds total in about three weeks (12 of which has been the last week). I should be proud of this, but I feel like it should be more. Losing nearly 40 pounds in three weeks would usually be cause for celebration but I'm not feeling it just yet. Not sure what's going on in my mind to have this reaction.
Dreading the third week stagnation next week as I transition to puree. Any tips for the dreaded incoming stall?
Thanks humans

talk have been telling me to drink my cals so here was my shake today for lunch:
1 cup blueberries 1 scoop vegan protein 1 cup soy milk 3 tablespoons pumpkin seeds 1 scoop greens powder
came out to about 485 cals which was pretty decent but it made me rlly full idk what y’all are talking about it being easy😭

Is it ok to use a mixer or is the EMF from those a concern? Heard somewhere here it's not recommended. I've tried shaking it in a jar and it just turns into whipped cream after 10 minutes. Seems like it doesn't want to turn into butter.
I tried using a butter churner and after churning for 10 minutes the cream is the same as when you put it in. I think these methods only work for pastuerized cream.
Would it be better to use to a hand mixer, do those have lower EMF.
I don't wanna use the blender method in the book cause of oxidation.
Can I use this whipped cream or cream for lubrication formula or does it have to be butter? What's the difference?
​
​

Hey so I’m paid tomorrow. Wednesday I wanna shop for stuff to make healthy food.
Ideas/ Dinner-chicken with rice and broccoli and protein shake OR taco chicken and bean and rice wraps with sour cream on top and diced potato’s and spinach
Lunch-turkey and cheese on wheat bread with grapes and protein shake
Breakfast/ avocado toast with eggs and protien shake OR yogurt with protein shake and eggs
Snacks/ beef jerky, pistachios, dried fruit, protein bars,
For my sweet tooth!!!/ low cal ice cream(I forgot the name of it!!)
Shopping list- Cheese slices Sour cream Yogurt Cheese blend Wheat bread Strawberries Blueberries Bananas Grapes Dried fruit Chicken Sliced turkey Protein bars Protein shakes Garnola bars Low cal ice cream Pistachios Beef jerky (X4) healthy option frozen meals Soft taco shells Premade salad bowls (x4) Coke Zero Bubbly flavored waters Chicken seasoning Broccoli Rice Spinach Beans Corn Potato’s Bagels Mushrooms
Idk I’m trying to do better choices. For example my fatass wanna buy toasted ravioli and pizzas from imos but I’m not going to. I have a set list and plan. I’m gonna buy a food scale, measuring cups and spoons, tupperware and labels.

I have advice for new plasma donors who may be considering to try it out and earn extra money:

• Plasma is 92% water and the rest is mostly protein elements.
• The plasma is separated from your blood and your red blood cells are returned to you in cycles.
• Per FDA regulations, you're only allowed to donate plasma twice in a 7 day period, with a 48 hour wait inbetween those two times. Don't risk your health by hopping around to different plasma donation centers to circumvent these regulations, and you may get caught if you do.

1. Eat a meal high in protein 2-3 hours before donating, but your plasma protein levels depend on what you ate the day before.
2. Drink plenty of water and/or non-caffeinated juice before donating to stay hydrated.
3. Avoid caffeine such as in coffee or soda before donating or you may get nauseous and vomit or faint during your donation.
4. No alcohol 24 hours before, and for a little while after donating.
5. No exercising for at least 6 hours after donating as it can put too much stress on the vein.
6. Some people get away with smoking or vaping nicotine before and after donating, but it's recommended not to for 2 hours before and after. The nicotine can raise your heart's pulse rate.
7. If your pulse rate is 100 or above, you'll be able to do a vitals retake after a 15 minute wait. But if it's 100 or higher again you'll be deferred for the day. If your pulse rate is an issue, listen to "Pink Noise" or "Green Noise" at a low volume before donating which may help reduce your pulse rate, along with its effect on lowering your blood pressure.
8. There is a risk of getting a blown vein if the worker is having a hard time finding your vein when they're sticking you with the needle or if you have small veins. You may get deferred until your vein heals if that happens. But it's ok, your body is able to regenerate your veins with a process called Angiogenesis.
9. There is a risk of blood clots, but when your blood is constantly moving through the machine it prevents that from happening.
10. You may be subject to drug screening. The drug screening tests for methamphetamines, cocaine, and heroin. Certain pharma prescription meds may show up as a false positive so you'll want to let the plasma center know what meds you're taking. Testing positive for these drugs can result in a permanent deferral from donating plasma.
11. A sample of your blood will be drawn periodically to test for certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A positive test will result in either a temporary or permanent deferral from donating plasma. If you've ever been diagnosed or received treatment for HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B (HBV) or Hepatitis C (HCV) you will be permanently deferred from donating plasma.'

Donating Plasma with Managed Diabetes
Individuals with well-controlled diabetes can contribute to plasma donation, but certain criteria need to be met:
Absence of Complications: This means no existing diabetic complications affecting your kidneys, heart, blood vessels, or eyes.
Insulin Independence: If you rely on insulin for diabetes management, a three-month waiting period is required after using needles for non-prescribed medications. Additionally, you must be free of symptoms or treatment needs related to blood sugar fluctuations (high or low) for the past three months.

1. Healthy Feet: Active foot ulcers requiring medical attention will disqualify you from donation.
2. Steady Balance: You shouldn't experience dizziness or lightheadedness upon standing.
3. Type 1 Consideration: For Type 1 diabetics, eating within two hours of donation is mandatory.

• Wait a few hours before taking the bandage wrap off of your arm after donating.
• It's recommended to use Vitamin E oil/Mineral oil on the needle site for the puncture area to heal better. A Q-tip can be used to apply it easier. I simply dip the Q-Tip in the bottle, but never dip the used cotton back into the bottle.
• Frequently donating over a prolonged period of time may lead to your body having decreased vitamin D levels.
  
• Red meats are particularly high in the protein vitamins and minerals found in plasma.
  
• Personally, I take a Now brand Vitamin D supplement that contains vitamin D3, Calcium, Magnesium, and Zinc. But I only take a half a dose, 1 gel capsule instead of 2, since I get these from eating meats and other foods as well. It's bad for your health if you take too much of these vitamins and minerals over time. I also take an Iron supplement. I also drink a protein shake before donating. Just to be safe.
  

Link to download app:
https://rewards.cslplasma.com/referral/referral-unique-code/eyJkb25vcklEIjoiMDBEMjNEVSIsImNvZGUiOiJaVUxNSFhYVkNCIn0
CSL Plasma: Get 5,000 iGive Rewards® points ($50) after five donations for new donors! (Plus new donor money) Using the CSL Plasma app! Code: ZULMHXXVCB Thank you!
Code: ZULMHXXVCB

Some mornings when I wake up, I’m super hungry. So I started the habit of drinking one of my protein shakes (30 grams of protein) first thing before my coffee. Makes a huge difference and I’m not tempted to eat something I shouldn’t. And if you don’t think walking helps in weight loss, it actually does. I began walking every day this past week for at minimum 2 miles, some days were more. Down 3 more pounds this week. I joined the LoseIt and Walking groups here on Reddit. Their weight loss stories of just walking, stories of their achievements/struggles are helpful and inspiring. Hope this helps someone.

https://unsplash.com/images/animals/kitten
Ever since I was a child my mother has not respected any boundaries of mine, would bully me at times and would blatantly lie and use manipulation to get what she wants. As an adult this relationship has remained similar ( although she doesn’t bully me anymore, but will still display the other behaviors I’ve mentioned). To make matters worse I still live with my parents, and I work next door to my mother. I’m working to move to a different state ( to be closer to my partner), and I’m thinking I may have to go NC ( although if there is a healthy alternative to NC where I can still keep my boundaries I’m open to that). Recently, my mother, who has skin cancer has had flair ups. A couple of months ago, her face was incredibly swollen ( she was unrecognizable). I suggested that she go to the hospital, and ended up getting into a mild argument with both of my parents who thought I was overreacting. A month later her condition got worse and she was bed ridden. When I would ask how she was doing she’d get irritated with me and say “I’m fine”. When I offered her food “she’d insist that she wasn’t hungry”. While she would tell me these things, she’d on the other hand would make up narratives to relatives and friends that I was ignoring her and starving her ( I had a long conversation with my sister who confirmed that she was spreading that narrative). So I became even more aggressive about leaving some type of food out even if it was a protein shake . She still rejected food and would say “she’s fine”. I confronted her and let her know that if she needed anything she can tell me, and that I heard from somewhere that I was starving her. She immediately interrupted me and said “ I didn’t say anything” (repeatedly). A couple of weeks later while I was visiting my partner, I get a text from my dad telling me that my mother is in the ER because of the swelling, but “everything is fine, and that he expects her to be out by the end of the day”. That was not the case, she ended up going to the hospital all weekend and doctors suspected that she had congestive heart failure . I felt conflicted the entire evening, part of me was angry for my mom’s mind games and for both of my parents downplaying the situation, and part of me felt detached, and then guilty for feeling the detachment. I didn’t want to see her, but I also wanted to be there and help if I could..but I was told “everything is fine” so I took my parents at their word. By the time I got back in town, she was out of the hospital. I kept contact to a minimum. I’ve been more proactive about being out of the house as much as possible and I think that’s kept the relationship with my mother healthy. I left town for a week last week, and when I returned I noticed my mother’s health has improved greatly. She confronted me and asked if I’m mad at her because she notices I haven’t been around much. I’m at a loss about being upfront with her for all of my grievances, or if that is even a fair thing to do since part of why I feel the way I do is coming from a place of realizing that how I was raised in an unhealthy manner. I would appreciate any advice/perspective on this matter.

I am 18 days post op and last night I had to go to a function for work where I couldn’t eat anything they had. I ended up having half of a small tortilla and I need to tell you guys that today I have been in bed all day, nauseous, stomach pain, diarrhea, and just physically and emotionally exhausted.
Not only that but I hate myself because I could have had just water and this sick day isn’t worth half a tortilla. I’m just trying to get some protein shake and Gatorade right now but don’t be like me. I learned the very hard way.

42 M, 183 lbs. 5'11.
I am currently rotating between low carb and PSMF.
Currently I am doing PSMF for 1-2 weeks then I will switch back to low carb as I need to lose a good amount of fat. I am being careful of taking my vitamins and electrolytes etc.
My question is that my whey isolate has 27g of protein per scoop and I have been putting in 2.5 scoops in my post workout shake. But now I am reading in some places that it may be going to waste and that only a max of 40 gram would be used for muscle protein synthesis. And they say this is only the case for whey as it is fast absorbing protein whereas something like Caesin or Vegan protein may be fine to take more as it will absorb slowly.
On the other hand there are also folks who do like 16-18 hour IF and still put on muscle so they're consuming large amount of protein in a short window (but perhaps its not whey protein?).
Need some help in what I should be doing in this case.
I have another question. Is my T level going to go down on PSMF obviously it's a high calorie deficit. Should I keep some fats in for hormonal balance to keep optimal T levels?

Is it really possible to lose weight by only adjusting how you eat? I box for an hour one night a week and swim for half an hour one night a week, with lots of chill walks spread across the other days. The problem is, when I work out, I get hella cravings and overeat afterward and the day after, too (even when I'm drinking protein shakes beforehand!?!?). I have an appointment with a dietitian at the end of the month so I'm sure I'll sort this all out with her but I just wanted to know if anyone has had success through JUST changing their eating habits?

Hi everyone! I’m needing advice on a couple things in my grandmas home health aid so I’m not sure if this will be normal home aid jobs or not
1) cutting toenails, her toenails are insanely thick and rigged and regular toenail clippers aren’t doing the job
2) showers/ products for between showers, it’s extremely difficult to get her in the shower and we have bath wipes and a bed pan but need something to help with keeping her hair clean in between when I can manage to get her in the shower and not
3) diet, she almost completely refuses to eat home cooked meals it’s a lot of potato chips, Carmel candies, pickles and she’ll eat fast food once or twice a day or she won’t eat anything. I’ve tried the protein shakes but she hates them, anyway I can sneak in some good healthy food ?

Hi everyone! I'm still a while from my surgery date but I've been experimenting with protein supplements in preparation for how much liquid protein I will need to be getting before and after surgery. So far I've tried a variety pack of Premier bottled shakes and found I liked the coffee flavor and hated the fruit flavors. What are everyone's go-to protein supplements? I'll need to find a clear option as well as a "full" liquid option I like.