Thread: My weight is affecting my psychological well-being.

Hi Beckii. Watching calorie intake and exercise do work but must be done properly. You need to eat a balanced diet with as little sugar and saturated fats as possible. Plenty of fresh fruit and veg, wholegrains, low fat dairy and lean meat. Coupled with around 30mins of moderate to vigorous activity, enough sleep and water will see results over time. There is a site called loseit that helps track calorie intake, calories burnt in exercise (other than daily living) takes account of fibre (you need about 30grms per day for good digestion to aid weight loss), protein, sugars and fats. You can set it up to aim towards your goal weight and it will tell you how many calories you are allowed to meet that goal. There is also a forum there that will support your efforts.

You may also like to join the Fitness Challenge 11 on this forum that supports people in their efforts to have a balanced diet and a good exercise routine. Good luck and keep us posted.

Hi Beckii. Your statistics indicate you have a BMI of between 27-28, which classifies you as overweight (although NOT obese). Bear in mind that BMI is a rough tool and takes no account of your build or muscle mass, so it should only be used as a general indicator. However, you're not a very long way from a healthy weight range. An effective programme of healthy eating and regular exercise can certainly help you get where you want to be, and it will work far better than any magic pill which doesn't actually change your habits at all. If a changed diet and exercise just haven't worked for you so far, to be honest, it's only because you haven't been doing it the right way - yet. But you can. Most people who change their lives don't do it at the first try; I'll guarantee many posters here who have improved their diet and health (and lost many more pounds than you need to lose) didn't manage it successfully first time round - I know I didn't, but I learned a lot in the process of trying.

Your post made me sad, because I have felt that way too and I know how overwhelming it can be. It's easy to slide into unhappiness and depression over something like your weight or appearance, and it's harder to motivate yourself to make changes when you're feeling down. Reaching out for support online is a good start, and I strongly suggest you go and look for help and support in your real life too. Does your University health service offer support with weight management? Could you talk through your worries and unhappiness with a sympathetic doctor or nurse, if they are starting to affect the way you live your life? Most unis have clubs or societies that offer the chance to get active and have fun - could you join one? My friend's daughter joined her uni's trampolining club; she says she's totally rubbish at it, but she has fun and a cardio workout twice a week, and she's made some great new friends there. Are there any groups you could get involved with and meet like-minded people? I know the likes of Slimming World and WeightWatchers cost money, which will be an issue for a young student, but if they aren't an option you may be able to find an alternative. What about your boyfriend? Will he help and support you if you make him understand how much you want to lose some extra pounds and be healthy? Maybe he would come walking or swimming with you, or perhaps a friend would come to an exercise class?

The key to succeeding is to stay positive and motivated. Set yourself small, manageable goals, praise yourself each time you achieve one, but don't beat yourself up if you don't, and certainly don't give up in disgust. Eat and drink the right things, exercise, and do both consistently. Most important of all, ask for help when you need it. Good luck - you can do it!