As I said in my first post I am terribly underweight and struggling to reach the healthy weight for my height. My goals: 1) gain 10 pounds 2) build stronger muscles and 3) control my blood pressure.
I‘ve made some progress. Yesterday during a visit with my doctor I learned I have gained one pound (nine to go), my blood pressure is normal and I am very strong, though I have poor coordination (so much for becoming a ballerina).
I rushed home and hugged Sammy, that every faithful Beagle and thanked him for his role in helping ‘Mommy’ stay healthy. Sammy didn’t seem very interested in my health, as he pulled me out the door for our evening walk.
Today I received an email from Sue Harris who advised me to cut down on the carbs and eat lunch. I did eat lunch today, albeit at my desk. I had half of a turkey sandwich and some fruit. Funny thing about eating lunch is that I have more energy in the afternoon and I am more alert.
I am more consistent with the power walks/runs with Sammy now and I eat lots of fruit. But giving up carbs and eating more green leafy vegetables is still a challenge. I have some collard greens in my refrigerator and I plan to cook them tonight, I promise. My reward for taking the time to make dinner will be a peanut butter and jelly sandwich to satisfy my sweet tooth.
I’d like to hear from readers who like me who struggle to gain weight or like me have been told by a doctor that they need to put on some pounds. I am curious about how much support you get from friends and family.
The MS Walk looks more realistic with each week that passes. To bad I can’t take Sammy on the walk with me.
Sharon Powell
sharonpowell@newsobserver.com
Comments
Gaining weight
Thu, 02/09/2012 - 15:04 — keg2664Good luck. I've had trouble gaining weight my entire life in spite of the amount of food I consume. The only offering from a doctor is that it is related to metabolism. Hope someone can offer some helpful suggestions.
I don't have that problem...
Wed, 02/01/2012 - 08:44 — uBnicebut I think I can feel your pain. I became overweight at one point which then was accompanied by high blood pressure, diabetes, and arthritis. I had to and continue to have to exercise discipline in my eating habits.
I have found that people can get 'uncomfortable' if you don't eat much. There are many times I catch grief from my family and friends for not eating a lot (i.e., not being a glutton like them!). That can be pressure to fit in.
People push food on us
Wed, 02/01/2012 - 15:44 — Messcook (author)You are so right -- it drives me nuts. This is why people over eat, we're dealt this guilt trip if we don't empty our plates.