Sherri: 'I’m a new me... and she's two pounds lighter!'

Week three out of five: The 'Challenge' Continues...

Well this was the week I discovered that I’m an emotional eater! The MRI results of my back show the discs are pretty screwed. I’m having physio to strengthen the muscles so they can take some of the load, so losing excess weight will certainly help with that. All positive, but I still felt like I needed a big fat piece of cake when I came out of there. (I have two replacement discs in my neck and confess to being a bit ‘stupid emotional’ when that particular part of me is under the spotlight!)

The reason I’ve highlighted the word ‘challenge’ is that as every day goes by, it’s beginning to feel more like the normal way I do things now, instead of something I’m taking part in. I don’t automatically think about desserts after dinner anymore; I don’t have an overwhelming urge to snack all the time; and I’m not craving sweets and chocolates anywhere near like I used to. I’ve been really tough with myself in having very little sugar at all; no treats/snacks, no alcohol and not much made with natural sugars either. 5 weeks out of my life is so little time in the overall scheme of things, (even though at times it has felt like months!) but I’m learning that what happens on a day-to-day basis in terms of emotions and behaviours has a profound impact on what I want to eat…

I humbly confess to poaching eggs for the first time ever this week! I put them on top of whole-wheat bagels spread with mashed avocado and have discovered my new favourite breakfast. I also noticed it filled me up as much as the granola and porridge does, so I wasn’t tempted to snack before lunch. I’m finally using my huge stock of plastic containers and always have a little supply of almonds, blueberries or raspberries by my desk at work in case I need them.

We’ve eaten some really tasty main meals this week with yet another making it to our ‘regular’ list: the pork, bean and sweet potato chilli. I made a huge batch to eat and freeze and it really went a long way. My freezer is being used far much more effectively now; it’s no longer full of bread and unrecognisable things in bags covered in freezer burn, but instead packed with portions of ragù sauce, shepherd’s pie, stock, par-boiled vegetables and herbs – my nan would be very proud of me!

My energy levels are continuing to increase which is great but it has its downsides. I’ve discovered I really can’t do lie-ins anymore as I want to be up doing things! I also find I can walk much longer with the dogs (back permitting) – I think they’re both a lot fitter as a result!

For me, it’s certainly been a lot easier doing this as part of a team. The five of us are hugely supportive of each other and are in regular contact. I’ve also discovered I’m stronger than I thought I was and definitely have more willpower than I gave myself credit for.

I’m really quite liking the new me – perhaps I can persuade her to stay (oh and she’s two pounds lighter this week than the old me too!)