It's my first day trying to really make a realistic lifestyle change, and I am hoping to meet other people who can relate to how scary and frustrating it is! I live in Boston, and have gained about 20 pounds since getting to college. I would really love to get back in shape and not be too embarassed to give up plans and actually be excited to go out on the weekends and feel comfortable in my skin. Anyone else who needs motivation and support, let me know )

Hey there.... I'm new to the site, too, just been on a few days. fficeffice" />>>
Just wanted to offer some encouragement and stress that you not be embarrassed about ANYffice:smarttags" />THING!* Do what you have to do to make it through school and take advantage of this time in your life to the fullest.**So what you have a few lbs that you're not quite happy with; don't let it prevent you from going out; DO NOT hide.* No one has a perfect body, while we all have body/weight issues.***>>
You may want to consider incorporating*some of the following small changes and recommendations:>>
1. Cut down portion sizes.* For example if you're used to having two slices of toast in the a.m., switch to one.* Try multi grain light egg muffins instead of bread(white or wheat).***>>
2. Try fruits that are not as high in sugar as others, like kiwi, strawberries, apples...* >>
3. Up your water intake.* Look at what you drink and consider replacing high sugary drinks with crystal light, water, and decaf drinks(ice tea and coffee). >>
4.*Check the websites of all restaurants you plan on visiting for nutritional info.* If you see a new drink at Dunkin Donuts or Starrbucks, visit their site and look the sugar, carb, sodium, and calorie info first.* This take a few seconds and you'll become familiar with things you can and can have at each of these places after a short while.* I know you're in college, so you're busy... >>
5. Drink water first to fill up and then eat your protein first, vegetables second, and whatever small amount of carbs you're also having.* Maybe consider doing three days of all protein a week and light inclusive carbs the rest of the week. >>
6. Change to light balsamic vinaigrette and Caesar, rather then the more caloric and fatty dressings.*Always ask for your dressing on the side and note you don't have to use it all, try for a visual half. >>
7. The basic lower your portion sizes.>>
I hope you find a few people locally and on here that are experiencing the same college weight gain, soon... * Remember NO ONE has a perfect body, so life your life now and don't be embarrassed to DO ANYTHIN!!!!
Take Care D.>>

>*>

I want 2 wish you best of luck on your weight loss journey!