Well…this wasn’t the weigh-in I was expecting.
Last Sunday, July 5, I weighed 268.5 pounds. This past week I spent a couple of days out in the Badlands of North Dakota. Knowing how much walking and hiking I would be doing, I figured I would at least maintain my weight, if not lose a little.
Instead, this morning, Sunday, July 12, the scale read 273.8 pounds.
Even the app I use to track my weight asked if this was really me because of the size of the gain. I have to admit, seeing that number was frustrating.
The part I don’t understand is how it happened. During the trip I ate two meals a day. They were definitely larger than what I normally eat, but I thought all of the walking would offset at least some of those extra calories. I did enjoy an ice cream cone and drank more soda than I usually do, but it didn’t feel like I had completely gone off the rails.
After thinking about it, I also have to remember that the scale doesn’t only measure body fat. Restaurant meals are often much higher in sodium, which can cause the body to retain water. Eating larger portions means there’s simply more food still being digested. The extra carbohydrates and sugary drinks can also increase water retention because the body stores water along with glycogen. Add in changes to my normal routine, sleep schedule, and hydration, and it’s very possible that not all of this five-pound increase is actual fat gain.
That doesn’t mean I get a free pass, though.
This weigh-in is a reminder that I really need to focus on both what I eat and how much I eat. Portion control has always been one of my biggest challenges, especially when I’m traveling or eating out.
This week I’m getting back to the basics. I want at least one day with no chocolate and no soda. I’ll pay closer attention to portion sizes, make healthier food choices, and get back to preparing meals that include lean protein, vegetables, and fruit.
The plan is also to get to the gym at least four times this week and increase my movement around the house instead of spending so much time sitting in my recliner. Every little bit of activity adds up.
I have two weeks before my next mini trip, so now is the time to refocus. My goal for the end of July is still 265 pounds. It won’t be easy, and this weigh-in certainly made the climb a little steeper, but it’s still within reach if I’m disciplined over the next couple of weeks.
One disappointing weigh-in doesn’t define the journey. What matters is what I do starting today.
Time to quit making it harder on myself.
Time to get busy.