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Quick Weight Loss: 10 Easy Ways to Cut Calories

If you’re looking for quick weight loss tips, keep in mind that cutting calories doesn’t have to be the same as going on a diet. Small changes such as controlling your portions and controlling your TV-watching can lead to quick weight loss. Some easy changes in the way you eat can help you save calories without missing them. Registered dietitian Marisa Moore, a nutrition program coordinator at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, offers the following suggestions for reducing calories without feeling deprived. Follow these weight loss tips and you’ll wonder why you ever ate any other way.

1. Stop the sugar.

Swap sugar for an artificial sweetener in your coffee or tea. Your taste buds won't care but your waistline will.

Calories saved: 15 to 30 per cup

2. Go light on the mayo.

Light mayonnaise has half the calories of the “real” stuff (50 versus 100 calories), and any difference in taste is hardly noticeable on sandwiches. If you just can’t give up regular mayonnaise, either spread it very thinly or coat one slice of bread with light and the other with regular.

Calories saved: 50

3. Go cuckoo for sugar-free cocoa.

Regular cocoa mixes hover around 120 calories; sugar-free varieties range from 60 to 90 calories per packet.

Calories saved: 30 to 60

4. Switch from traditional syrup to light.

It has half the calories – 100 calories per 2 tablespoons versus 50 calories.

Calories saved: 50 per serving

5. Pop a frozen fudge pop.

There's only 40 calories in a no-sugar-added chocolate pop versus milk chocolate's 150 calories per 1 ounce (oz.).

Calories saved: 110

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Angela

08 Jan 2012, 15:00

I am 41. Seven years ago I was the perfect example of excellent health and had been my entire life. I was a model and appearance was a must. I was having headaches- severe headaches. I went to my physician 7 times complaining. My 3yr pan for dental exam was due. I went in and that is when it all started with my dentist finding jawbone tumors. Went sent for multiple tests and they found brain tumors, & breast tumors. Went for female testing and they found precancerous cells. They immediately started all the surgeries to remove all the tumors and a hysterectomy. Most of the tumors were removed intact. The tests that did come back were benign on the tumors. Two years later they found a pituitary tumor in the brain that they are watching. The next year they diagnosed me with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Hypoglycemia, Hypothyroid, IBS, Anemia, Degenerative Disc Disease, Scoliosis, Torn Disc from I have no idea what, stomach ulcers, anal tear from IBS that will not heal w/ chronic infection, chronic Kidney and bladder infections, Auto Immune disorders, ADD, and Glaucoma. I was an artificial sweetner junkie all my life. Two years ago I changed everything I consumed and only ingested natural, organic, preservative free food and increased my water intake. I am feeling better than I ever have and have been able to quit taking almost all the medicine (even though my Hubby is a Pharmacist)and started water aerobics. There is a light at the end of the tunnel if you just follow it.

MIdget01

06 Jan 2012, 17:57

Everything in moderation people. It doesn't make sense to substitue 2 -3 packages of Artificial Sweetner for 1-2 Tsp of Sugar if you only do that once a day. But is does make sense if you drink a lot of milk to substitute skim or 2 % for whole milk when drinking or making things like Mashed potatoes. Or maybe substitute Cauliflower for Potatoes when Mashing to get more vitamins in your diet. But if you are going hog wild on drinking 3-10 cans of pop a day; yes you benefit by either eliminating pop all together and just drinking water or cut back on the amount of drinks but substituting an alternative. But one needs to realize that by telling yourself you have to have the same amount you are probably defeating your purpose because having that much artificial sweetners to drink 10 drinks is probably not healthy either. For those of us to are having problems with Arthritis we need to look at foods that help lower the inflamation in our bodies. While medicine works for some it is only a temporary fix unless we adjut our diets as well. I am allergic to most Nysaids and have to deal with pain through foods. It's a hit or miss thing right now until I figure out what is right for me. But most of my problem is that I have spent the last 8 months dealing with removal of teeth and learning how to re chew my foods. This limits the types of foods that one can eat because of the pain of the bite. Most of the foods I have had to use to feel full are too high in Sodium, calories etc. But I am sure I will work this out soon. But I too do not agree with the words of wisdom offered in this artical. One does not chose to substitue things that are not healthy for you in order to stop over eating. Most Doctors or Dietitions don't suggest pop, coffee, Teas, or artificial sweetners. Water is the healthy choice of drink if it is from the tap. Even bottled water have been said to be unhealthy not only for your health but your pocket book at well. Exercise is great if you are able to do it. Water aerobics are the best but also sometimes the most expensive. So what works for one may not work for others. But it is interesting to read what your opinions are.

Susana

01 Jan 2012, 22:44

The suggestions to loose weight are fantastic. I've done all of them, a couple years ago I became instructor for Day-Care's, I learned about taking care kids from early age, we need to feed them healthy so they can grow healthy. Meantime I started to practice what I learned: No SODAS, there is so much sugar in it as 17 spoons; No Hot Chocolate unless I mixed with Low Fat Milk, etc. etc. I've lost 30 POUNDS with out going hungry, oh! I've reduced the portions in each meal AND NO MORE FOOD AFTER 7:00 pm.
Believe me, I'm so used to. ONE MORE THNG, drinking at least 4 glasses of water every day.
I have problems like arthritis, I take Glucosaminew/Choindrin 2 tablets every day, excersice at least 45 minutes. It had help me so much, I feel pain on my joints when the weather is cold only.
I feel good sharing my experience. Thanks to every body sharing too. Ciao.

Chuck

01 Jan 2012, 00:18

This is to Rayletta. You're housebound. What city-state do you live in? If you were local, I'd give you a ride once a week or so for things you need to get out for. I also have arthritis, but I can live with it at this point. I'm also diabetic (2) and age 79, but still get to do the things I really want to do. Send me an email at cheesiet32@yahoo.com if you're from Southern California.

camille

29 Dec 2011, 22:35

Rayletta, my mom firmly believed in vitamins, and she told me for pain for carpal tunnel, take 100mg of vit b-6 daily, after a week you will notice the difference.For aches and pains make sure you get enough calcium, vit-d, magnesium, and take some glucosamine chondroitin. My mom lived to 84, and looked to be only in her 60s. I believe the vitamins and herbs she took all those years (30) kept her young, and feelin good. She was a vitamin expert, so we started calling her a vitamintologist, she could tell you what to take for what ailement, and it worked 100%. I hope whoever reads this gets some of it.

camille

29 Dec 2011, 22:24

I was diagnosed with bi-lateral carpal tunnel, im bone on bone in my left knee with no meniscus, my right knee gives out of me causing me to fall at times, and finally, i was born with scoliosis, and a enlarged heart. What kind of excercises can i do to loose weight that wont cause me any more pain than what im going thru now? Also what would you recomend for pain? Im 48 years old

Patricia Englaender

29 Dec 2011, 17:43

I was diagnosed with RA 14 years ago. Since that time I've bee diagnosed with several other auto-immune disorders. I've been on methotrexate from the beginning, along with other meds. I read above where a woman said you cannot get health insurance while taking methotrexate. This is untrue! I've had health insurance before and since taking this medication.

carmen

29 Dec 2011, 17:33

Bonnie, my rhuemotologist diagnosed me with OA and recomended tai chi exercise because it uses fluid movements and can be good for joints. I saw online today that there is a dvd called Tai Chi for Arthritis, which is a modified version for arthritis sufferers.

Patsy

29 Dec 2011, 12:17

I sympathize with all, especially Rayletta. You poor thing! Do you live alone? If you do,sounds like you really need someone around. I just lost my 76 yr old mother to lung cancer. I have severe Osteoarthris in my back SI joints, hands and knees. I tested positive for Lupis. My Rhuem. doc took me off of Diclofenic and put me on Meloxicam. What a difference! Rayletta, ask your doctor if you could try Meloxicam, I think it would make a big difference.
Good Luck,
Patsy

Rayletta

29 Dec 2011, 11:17

I can sympathize with all of you. I am a diabetic, have arthritis in both knees and have had 2 heart attacks.
My doctor has prescribed diclofenac and tramadol for the constant pain in my knees. I can't see where it helps much. I walk with a cane and there are days I can't walk at all and have to use my wheelchair.
I wish there was something that would help the pain. I have to watch my diet because of the diabetes.
I am stuck here in my house, I get out once a week to get groceries and have to go to a store that has the electric carts. I live on a hill so can't get out in my yard.
I am 77 yrs old, I am thankful that the good Lord has seen fit to keep me here so far. It is better than the alternative.
Anyone know of a medication that will help the constant pain that I have everyday?

Gayle G

29 Dec 2011, 09:31

i have lost 73 pounds, mainly by giving up my membership for the 'Clean Plate Club' and doing some walking on treadmill and riding a recumbant bicycle. I was concerned when i started having problems with my right ankle, and had to have ankle surgery in mid-October that I would gain it all back, particularly with the holidays, but I have just watched my portions, and try not to over-indulge in anything. So far I've maintained the loss, and hopefully will be able to go back to the bike and treadmill after mid-January. I have another 40 i want to take off. I have OA, other forms of arthritis, and fibromyalgia.

Dee Fagan

29 Dec 2011, 09:25

Splenda is a wonderful substitute for sugar. My husband, who hates artificial sweeteners, loves it. I bought the generic brand, and it is just as good.

Bonnie

29 Dec 2011, 08:33

I can definitley do without the mayo and without soft drinks all together but some of these other suggestions don't sound too good. I do not like any kind of artificial sweetener. I use brown sugar on my cereal and local honey in my coffee. Please also keep in mind that many types of exercise are very difficult for people with arthritis. I have a lot of problems with my hands (swelling and pain) as well as my knees and ankles, which sometimes even makes simple walking difficult. I am on methotrexate as prescribed by my Rheumatologist. Do you know that you can't buy health insurance if you take methotrexate?

Linda

28 Dec 2011, 23:28

Seriously?? You've just lost my confidence. I'm a retired nurse with 35 years experience and I would never advise anyone to follow these suggestions. There are multiple ways to cut down on unhealthy foods and lose weight. Your suggestions do not qualify as healthy advice. I'm so disappointed in Arthritis Today and will be wary of anything I read on your site in the future, if I read it at all.

Ann

28 Dec 2011, 22:09

I can't believe that you promote artificial sugar. I would do without before using artificial sugar as it really upsets my total system. I would learn to like my beverages without any type of sweetener before I would put sugar substitutes into my system.

Norma Nydia Cortes

28 Dec 2011, 21:30

I was so skinny then,and so overweight now,it has been very depressing for me to live like this for the last 81/2 yrs.Oestoartritis from my neck down,both hips,both knees with broken ligaments and tear of the bones,also neuropathy,defintely I would not do knee replacements,specially being so overweight.My life came to a complete halt,today I'm a disable woman,I use to love to dress,and high heels every morning to go to work,go out dancing every weekend,excersice, go for long walks,ect..Today I could no longer dance,run,excersice,go out for walks,no movies,no airplanes,can't stand or sit for more than five minutes,with much pain and effort I'm able to go up and down stairs,from my waist down all I hear its cracked and noises from my frail bones,I used a cane for balance,defenitly I would not sit or used a wheelchair,I,ll keep up with the pain,no meds as long as I can..My faith and love for God is great,every morning I thank him for one more day of blessings,all my ailments and worries I turn to him,through him I'm able to get out of bed every morning,walk keep up with my daily routine.For the last four yrs,I been on a low fat,sugar free diet,I do not do sugar substitutes at all.Fruits,vegetables,grains and cheerios have been my diet,I did lost a lot of weight last yr,but for the last 9 months have gain much more,my metabolism is as slow as a snail,and didnt know I had a problem with my thyroids until 2 weeks ago,now Im waiting on the test results,my Dr.says that bariatric surgery is best for me,I dont think so..I do not and I will not give up on me,myself and I.I know with time I will be myself again,without surgeries!

Vicki

28 Dec 2011, 21:20

I do have to say please stay away from aspartame it will trigger a migraine also.

VPattee

28 Dec 2011, 16:48

I have lost ( and kept off ) over 100 pounds by cutting portion sizes and exercising. I do use a little sugar but no where near what I use to. I much prefer the natural sugars in fruits .

Miss Ruth Hollis

28 Dec 2011, 16:47

I ENJOY THE EMAILS,Thanks Ruth Hollis

tre7

28 Dec 2011, 16:41

Aspartame causes pain. Stop drinking diet sodas, and using any sugar substitutes for a few weeks and you will definitely feel the difference. I feel so much better now that I've eliminated it from my diet.

Vicky

28 Dec 2011, 16:13

The so called doctor who says that Aspartame breaks down into alcohol and formaldehyde, take a bio chemistry class please. You are so wrong. If you don't mind diabetes, keep eating sugar. Sugar substitute is a very smart way to go and has never killed anyone but the sugar industry's bank account. Stop being so gulllible. And to the man who says we need glicose, it's glucose and you don't need to eat this, the body makes it from complex carbs that are very healthy and will assist in weight loss. Get a grip folks!

Bobbie Newby

28 Dec 2011, 15:57

what about splenda is it bad for you?

Lou

28 Dec 2011, 14:29

I have used stevia powder for years and I don't use it because of a health problem. I use the pure white powder and not the one commonly available at the store. You only use a tiny tiny bit compared to the others with stuff added in. You can get the ground leaf but to me it leaves a taste I can not describe. Only problem I have had with it is keep it dry. So far have not used it in baking but will try soon.

Betty

28 Dec 2011, 14:09

In all fairness to janitors, they probably have more sense than to recommend fake sugar this and fake sugar-that.

Dr. Cortney Manix, DC

28 Dec 2011, 13:57

I'm horrified that you would suggest multiple times to consume diet soda, diet sweetner, etc. I have given this web site out to several patients as a "good source of information." I guess we'll be talking about the evils of Aspartame and other fake sugars in our office this week. There is no "nutrition" in here. Thank goodness for the other outspoken readers who had the same issue. Aspartame breaks down in your body as alcohol and formaldahyde. This brings nothing but havoc to your liver and nervous system. Your body has to process all of this. Please take more care in what you recommend next time. Smaller portions and exercise are great, but fake sugar will kill you one way or another.

Sue

28 Dec 2011, 13:43

These are the LAMEST ways to cut calories I've ever seen. I think the real journalist must be on vacation and the janitor was pulled into write this one!

José Serrão

23 Dec 2011, 18:32

Sugar is necessary because it has glicose.

Do gym every day

Pamela

01 Nov 2011, 08:11

I lost a lot of weight the year before I was diagnosed with RA largely because of the pain and fatigue, I just didn't eat. Once I got diagnosed last August and began prednisone and MTX, I feel better, but can not longer lose weight. I exercise and watch what I eat and am not gaining on the preds, but not losing either. I need to get off about 15 more pounds. I think the meds are messing with my metabolism. Any suggestions on how I can jump start it while taking the meds?

Kathleen

04 Sep 2011, 19:23

After just turning 60 in July, I found out I need a DOUBLE knee replacement. Since I want to lost at least 20 lbs before I do this I joined the Weight Watchers at Work program. My company paid for 50% up front, if I attend 80% of the meetings I get 25% back and if I lose at least one pound a week they'll give me back the rest. Sooo, I've got nothing to lose but the weight! Wish me luck, so far 4 weeks into the program I've dropped about 8 lbs. For exercise I tread water and do water aerobics. I was diagnosed with OA several years ago and Fibromyalgia 3 years ago. A am in pain daily, some days are worse than others and cold, damp weather is the absolute worse!

nancy

23 Aug 2011, 23:40

I totally agree that we all need to cut down on carbs, but please NO-ONE should switch to "low calorie" drinks, or "low calorie" anything because ASPARTAME is an ingredient that is EXTREMELY BAD FOR YOU!! Look up on YOUTUBE. Cannot believe it's actually allowed in our food period! Do your research!!

Stacey

19 Aug 2011, 10:33

Wow thankyou all so much for sharing your stuff..it has been an eye opener and am grateful to read your views on so many things ..I'm in Australia,44yo female on methotrexate for RA and got to the stage recently when I just got sick of taking medications you know..I basically wanted to feel drug-free..And I gave it all away for a few weeks and am paying for it now..Back to the unable to bend fingers feeling ,more stiffness and pain throughout body and harder to walk or get up..Went to a healthfood shop and the lady there also has RA and she told me she did the same as I just did and it was such a big mistake also..I am so keen to learn about research there in the U.S regarding to fight the auto immune in new different ways as you are more ahead I think than other countries on this subject..I've always felt there must be another way to attack IT as it attacks our system and those new drugs sound interesting but who feels like being a guinea pig ? So then we have to wait years until some brave people have tried the new auto immune drugs and make up our own mind..Surely they don't need to be so goddamn toxic I say to others..The lady working fulltime at the health shop did give me inspiration to go on seeking right type of work and another thing=she was not bloated in the mid region for someone in her late 50's, so that in itself gave me more hope!! As I blamed methotrexate for growing stomach! We all got to keep moving somehow or another or else it will become worse..A heated pool or spa around 34 degrees warm is so soothing for the pain..A new marketing tool for personal trainers out there!=to teach us the gentle ways to weight loss..perhaps tai chi or yoga or simply meditation ?! Rolled into one ! Will keep trying them all...coz we have to.

j boggs

09 Aug 2011, 09:58

in the last 6 months I have lost almost 50 lbs doing portion control and counting carbs (to get my A1C level down) artificial sweeteners are not good for anyone, I will have a small serving of juice mixed with club soda or an occasional fruit punch or lemonade, made with sugar----I am trying to eat more natural food and while the artificial sweeteners and diet drinks will lower you calorie intake it can make you crave more sweets

Wicked

27 Jun 2011, 13:42

A wonderful and useful website, not just for information but also support, is SparkPeople.com. I love these people!!
There are forum groups for nearly every need. The 'Living with Arthritis' group has been so helpful! I got back to doing my yoga, and it has helped a lot!

Anne charles

01 May 2011, 11:40

Am 20years old and have never been slim all my life and am craving to be smaller even for a year how do i get that nice small size?

sandie

12 Apr 2011, 13:51

Can you tell me the measurements of Carbs, sugars, fats, Sat & trans, cholesterol sodium, fibers protein are needed EACH day for a diabetic? It is so confusing for me. I am 66 yrs old & can't understand alot of things on computer. If some oneone will just tell me out plain what I need- I'm sure I can do better

Amaobi

29 Mar 2011, 05:16

Please can i have an African remedy where the major food component is carbohydrate.

Vivian

10 Mar 2011, 12:57

This has some good information.

Trish

10 Mar 2011, 09:20

Night shade vegetables are really bad for any form of arthritis, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers (any kind). Just eliminating them from your diet might help but I have found a wonderful Dr. who is helping me with this and some other related issues. Look up candida yeast treatment which includes migraines and a whole lot of other symptoms. Check out Dr. Dennis W. Remington. He wrote Back to Health: A Comprehensive Medical and Nutritional Yeast Control Program but referred me to the book The New Arthritis Breakthrough: The Only Medical Therapy Clinically Proven to Produce Long-term Improvement and Remission of RA, Lupus, Juvenile RS, ... & Other Inflammatory Forms of Arthritis at http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0871318431 which I found very interesting. Check it out and see what you think!

candy

10 Mar 2011, 03:13

I have suffered from migraine headache for years. I have taken drugs which have helped some for years as well.
I forgot my meds. at my daughters and had to go without them for 4 days. As a resolute I didn't have a headache. So I decided to stop taking them all together. I was fine for about three weeks and then they started up again.
While talking with a friend she told me she takes 100mg. of vitamin B6. At first i didn't think it was going to work, but after about a week i haven't had a headache since.
I would recommend it to everyone to at least try it because it really works.

09 Mar 2011, 20:27

For the past few years, I've alternated between sugar and artificial sweeteners. For this past year, I was using only artificial sweeteners in my coffee and tea. I found that it made my pain worse; the discovery came when I switched back to sugar as an experiment.

I haven't put on any weight since switching back to sugar. I've not lost much, but at least I'm not putting more on. The rest of my diet is pretty good. It's relatively balanced, and I limit the amount of junk food and sweets I have. Since I stopped using Sugar Twin and switched to sugar, I've had fewer flare-ups and fewer rough/exhausting days.

08 Mar 2011, 09:12

I've been going to a hand surgeon for over a year because I have arthritis in my wrist (bone-on-bone), and the first thing he put me on was "Ginger" pills, 550 mg twice a day. Now, because of the seriousness in my hand, it didn't help there, but the osteoarthritis in my knees???? It helped enormously! I can not go up and down stairs with hardly any pain at all. I will take these pills every single day, now. They really work!

Wilna Riekert

22 Sep 2010, 15:26

Have any of you tried Cayenne pepper?Aids the digestive stystem and circulatory system,thus cleaning build up in the veins supplying the blood to the joints,

Joe Heller

22 Jul 2010, 11:41

You know what a good site with more calorie saving alternatives is? http://www.fitclick.com/weight_loss_tips

Denise karnes

21 Apr 2010, 11:27

To all with RA:
The best form of daily exercise which has low impact on joints and can provide resistance and cardio is a high quality elliptical machine. I tried the cheaper versions but these machines can actually hurt your joints mainly because the foot pedals are spaced too far apart--puttting stress on knees and hips. I spent 2000.00 on an elliptical a year ago and it has made a big difference in the quality of my life. It is an investment in your health and worth the money.

Karen

20 Apr 2010, 07:42

Wow! I feel so much better about myself now! I share most of all of your aches and pains..migraines..predictions...and the joint and stiffness...can't straighten up in the mornings...now can barely dance..which makes me SO SAD! I love to dance and now have lost so much mobility.

My question to you all is: did YOUR situation come on suddenly? I was fine...as far as mobility and such, then all of a sudden this past year..BAM...I feel like I aged 10 years in 1 year. I DID have an ENORMOUS amount of stress. I would call this past year one of the WORST of my life. Things are better now, but...my body refuses to join my mindset!!

As far as ACUTE pain for headaches and joints...my chiro gave me BIO-FREEZE. I like the roll on..it's like that HEAD ON stuff..I roll it right on my Forehead..even though you aren't supposed to! I also take MIDRIN and have for years. It's one of the FEW drugs I like as it doesn't give me side effects and not addictive. You take 2 when you feel one coming on. Then 1 per hour up to 5 hours. They took it off the market for a few months, now it's back! THANK GOD! Also, there are times when I get the WORST HEADACHES and I feel like I am going to STROKE OUT. NOTHING HELPS. I do have phenagren suppositories on hand and use 2 @25 mg to help with nausea and they sedate me.

We bought a BLENDTEC Blender at Sams. LOVE IT. We eat blender food a lot. Recently, we fasted red meat for lent, then added it back and at first I thought it was ok, but after a week of eating a LOT, I think it's affecting me. One of my BIG no no's is SOY SAUCE! I love it, but we marinate steaks and mushrooms in it and I USUALLY get a migraine after eating..so now I use BUTTER..haha. not good, but oh well..beats the pain!

20 years ago my allergist put me on what he called the CAVE MAN DIET. It's an elimination diet. You eat ONLY FRESH fruit/veggies/ and VERY limited everything else. NO CHICKEN, RED MEAT..but you could have TURKEY, WILD GAME, FISH. Long story short, I LOST 30 lbs in a 6 wee4ks..and once I added back food, I KEPT losing weight and thought I was SICK! Diet is HUGE..we were created with a special design and it knows what we NEED. I am going back on that diet and try to figure out WHAT will help my pain and also LOSE WEIGHT!

One last note...I have NEVER been able to drink BEER. One good swig and I get a TERRIBLE migraine. And now, nearly any alcohol I cannot tolerate without a migraine. I did read VODKA is the only thing that might work. Luckily, I just don't drink much and therefore don't have to deal with the issues.

Let me know of any MIRACLE PAIN RELIEF!!
I take my daughter's ballet stretch class and the stretching is about all I can do now.

Soney

06 Apr 2010, 21:01

For all you people out there with any form of arthritis, & like me, can't do the exercises that require being on the floor, or it's too painful to do very much standing: Go to amazon.com, do not pass go, go straight to the site & do a search for "sit & be fit" exercise dvd or vhs tapes. There are a wide variety, & the prices are reasonable. As long as your physician approves, they are a good alternative way of exercising. As for weight loss, I don't know if the "sit & be fit" will do much. However, the exercises will give good stretches, which can help with pain, & can strengthen muscles. And, sometimes, jut a little bit of movement can make you feel better mentally, which can also decrease pain.
If you are physically able (&, again, if your physician approves) there are videos available geared especially for people with arthritis. I can definitely vouch for these. As for weight loss, I am not sure if these exercises will help there, but if you strengthen your muscles & build up your stamina, you might be able to do more things physically, & that could help with weight loss.
Good luck to all, & God bless.

Christie

06 Apr 2010, 13:16

I am surprised to find weight loss advice in 2010 from Arthritis Today is pushing artificial sweeteners. The clinical evididence is clearly out there that you DON'T loose weight by switching to articifial sweeteners. If anything they cause you to gain weight because you are not satified after you eat something with them.

Go back to the basics and cut the processed sugars and articial sugars. If you need something sweet - use a low glycemic sweetener like Agave Syrup - you can find it anywhere these days (even Costco) or a natural no calorie sweetener like Stevia. Loading up on articial sweeters just makes you want to eat more and you will gain more weight in the long run.

Think about all the articial sweeteners introduced to our society in the past 25 years and think how fat our nation has gotten? It has not helped.

Arthritis Today - I would appreciate it if you would give advice that is more worthy of your magazine that I love. This articile is not.

Hey - for those who are still struggling with weight and autoimmune issues - if cutting the sugar is not enough. I cut out all the gluten (wheat, rye, spelt, etc) I only eat anciet grains (rice, quinoa, corn, etc) and try to limit it to two servings per day and stick to vegetables, lean proteins, and fruits and than helped a ton. The gluten flours added a ton of weight and made me feel like hell!

Mrs_H

06 Apr 2010, 10:21

I don't eat mayonaise (or any other dressing), chocolate, syrup, frozen treats or ice cream, sphaghetti or chili or any other tomato-based dish (allergies), or drink alcohol. So, like most of the weight loss tips I see, most of these are useless.

What about those of us who already eat a very low calorie diet and can't lose weight becuase of our inability to exercise much?

lakshmie

02 Apr 2010, 03:16

me too a patient of RA I started taking 750 ml water empty stomach.6 meals (small portions)a day.and drink green tea and I have started loosing weight most of all I trust in my LORD JESUS may god bless you all

Carla Barber

23 Mar 2010, 07:48

If this could reach Amanda from 10/20/09 as I feel a connection as I have been challenged with JRA since I was 12. I am now 52. My RA began in my hands also. I also played an instrument -the french horn in marching and concert band. When I was in my mid 20s, I had hand joint replacement surgery.I struggled with flareups in college, but made it through and became a teacher. I learned the food provided in colleges as in other food service places were not good for my body(too acidic). I monitored my food intake and how I felt. The first thing I did was cut out sugar (no soa pop or goodies)and artificial sweetners. I could eat honey. I began to eat salads w/o much dressing - maybe olive oil. The vegies seemed to ease the inflamation. Fish is also good for me. I do eat beef and chicken sparingly but make sure I eat veggies, especialy raw veggies -spinach was the best for my inflamation. I learned to cook using whole grains with good oils. When I kept up low acidic foods I felt good. When I didn't pay attention to my diet, I had a flare up :(I had taken at times steroids. My goal was to stay off steroids. Between age 26 and 32, I had 3 children. Flare ups came after 2 of my 3 pregnancies. I 1993 I discovered a complex of glyconutritionals one is glucosimine that helped control my immune system's over reaction. I now have gone 15 years without a major flare up-my knees are trouble at times. I must stick to the food I know is good for me and drink mainly water (spring water).

Tera

16 Mar 2010, 14:13

I have read lots of the other posts and can relate to many concerns. I have several health issues as well that are being dealt with by several specialists. To name a few: Hypothyroidism, Metabolic Syndrome, Psudotumor Cerebri (inflammation of the Optic Nerve), Rosacea like outbreaks, and elevated Triglycerides and Cholesterols. I see the Neurology Dept. Nurse Practitioner today. Things that I am doing to help alleviate some of the symptoms are making changes in my diet. Cutting down on portion sizes, limiting the amount of refined carbohydrates, cutting sugar ladened beverages out completely, increasing the amount of fiber by eating whole grains, increasing the consumption of vegetables and fruits, consuming small portions 2-3 ounces of low fat proteins at each meal, increasing the amount of calcium by eating dark leafy greens, and low fat dairy products. Exercise includes walking and Yoga or anything that is low impact and easy on my joints. Resistance bands and Pilates play a role in strength building. Swimming will be of great importance when the outdoor pool opens this summer. Most important of all is the support of strong Christian faith, and family. Reducing the amount of mental stress will probably help as well. I hope that I have helped to give others ideas in how they can improve their health as well. Being able to share this was like a small therapy session.

Roberta

16 Feb 2010, 21:47

Hi,
I had knee replacement on both knees and a hip replacement because of Arthiritis in the last 2 years. I am 7 months out from the hip replacement. I stayed with my niece during recovery and therapy and one of the things that I did was walk at her house. I could because of the sidewalks. At my home there are no sidewalks and car fly by here at times as if there are no speed limits. I was leary of walking here when I first came home but I am improving and I may try that when it gets warmer. I have always walked a lot and I miss being able to do that. I have looked at various exercises to do but several I have seen require getting on the floor and I can't do that. I need to exercise (along with watching better my diet) along with walking. Does anyone have any suggestions of exercises that are recommended for those with joint replacement?

Lisa C

14 Feb 2010, 06:11

HI.. I need to lose 40 pounds before my knee replacement at the end of June.. I am 57 and have a 2.5 year old son my hubby and I adopted 2.5 years ago.. i am too busy to walk now,, and he does not want to do that anyway.. how can I do this without walking? Thanks for any help! LisaC

Ros

15 Jan 2010, 04:48

I am 25 and was diagnosed with RA over a year ago after a year of symptoms.

From what I believe, prednisone does not inherently make you gain weight -- but it is a steroid and it increases your appetite. My rheumatologist tells me that no one should be on prednisone for an extended period of time, particularly young people. However, I love what prednisone does to my RA -- pretty much instant relief!

But I'm not on it all the time... maybe every few months when I get a real bad flare-up.

Anyway, it sounds so helpless, especially if you're bored since eating can be such a comfort, but eating less really is the only way to lose weight. I have been watching what I eat for two weeks now and training every day in the gym as I want to run a half-marathon... I haven't lost weight, but I feel so much better. My skin looks better and when I look at my legs I see better tone in my thighs and calves, instead of my knobbly arthritis knees. Knobbly arthritis knees are still there, and they like to puff up every now and again and that looks horrible, but I'm really trying to kick RA's ass, rather than have it kick mine!

Don't be too hard on yourselves... you're only human and will make dietary mistakes -- I ate a chocolate bar for breakfast this morning ((oops!)) so long as I don't do it every day though, it'll be fine!I empathize with ALL of you!

Dale Webb

11 Jan 2010, 21:26

Hi Amanda, Age 16,
Dr, Mark Stengler of La Jolla, CA is a natural and holistic
doctor that can help you get rid of your RA. Since you're young, you should get fast results. You can e-mail him if you wish.
You will be happy you did!
Feel better,
Dale Webb

Todd29

08 Jan 2010, 09:56

Being overweight sucked, but after reading your book, I lost 85 pounds! Words can not express how good I feel! This is a comment which I recently received about the book Lose Weight Using Four Easy Steps

jennifer decaprio

01 Dec 2009, 16:30

thanks

kathy

12 Nov 2009, 23:47

I have had RA and OA for 26 years. Last year I had my right knee replaced and desperately need the left one done. I'm on Arava, Lyrica,Evista,Synthroid,prednisone, and several high BP meds. I was walking and doing my sationary bike until 3 months ago. I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis. The stationary bike is very painful to sit on(both methods) and I have a pinched nerve that effects my left foot. It is numb,can't support me and now needs a brace due to the drop foot. I had lost 35 pounds after the knee surgery. I'm 5'1''and need to loose 40 more pounds. How do I loose wight now that I can't walk more that a few very slow feet with my walker and can't stand? i've cut calories, logged what I eat and do not use artifical sweetners. I need to exercise.
Any suggestions?

Suzan

03 Nov 2009, 12:18

Nancy, you sound like a very wonderful person. Your daughter must be a very important part of your life. You should be an advocate for those of us who suffer several different types of diseases. Weight gain is probably the worst thing that has happened to me since I have been diagnosed with RA, PsA, fibromyalgia, etc., etc., etc. It is very hard to be intimate with my husband because of my skin problem, then the weight gain makes me feel even worse. You are right when you say doctors just don't understand. They tell you to walk, exercise, do something. But, when you can't walk to the mail box without great pain, how in the world can we walk a track around a school yard! Just once I would like to find a doctor who really understands and treats the person, not the symptoms. Give your daughter a hug from someone who really understands and cares.

Suzan

03 Nov 2009, 12:09

"famnily"? I better do better on proof-reading!

Suzan

03 Nov 2009, 12:08

This is (mainly) for the two teenage girls, Amanda and Rosalie. Hang in there, girls. You have good spirit inside to help you through this horrible time of your life. Being a teenager is bad enough, but when you have health problems, it just doubles or triples your pain. Most of the comments I have read are from us older folks. I'm 52 and have had parathryoid and thyroid cancer and removal of both. I also developed many, many autoimmune diseases. I get so depressed that I stay in bed and have private pity-parties. My husband Tim is a great support, but he doesn't know what we go through. Please know that there are people who care, even if we don't know you. You are loved and cherished. Just DON'T give up. Rely on your famnily, and it is okay to have a pity-party every now and again!

BOBBY V

24 Oct 2009, 02:38

This is to Amanda and anyone else. I have suffered with RA all my life. I am 53. I take Glucosomene tablets every day now. They seem to work the best. As far as exercise, You don't have to run to lose weight. Start out walking slow and keep a journal as to how far you walk and how long you walk. Increase the distance and time as you feel you can. Keep track of what you eat. My doctor told my the secret to losing weight. You can't eat more calories than you burn. If you can work out in a pool, this helps the joints also. You have to have a good pair of shoes to walk in. This also goes for anytime you are out anywhere. Take good care of your feet and they will take care of you.

Kimberly

21 Oct 2009, 23:24

It helped me feel better.... If any of you have access to a good size swimming pool. swimming laps and doing water arobics helps a lot. the impact on your joints is minimal and you can get a good cardio workout out while doing it. local ymca often offer water arobic classes and they are a great place to meet some really nice people that can offer support and encouragement. lots of prayers and God's Blessings.

Amanda

20 Oct 2009, 09:41

Hi, my name is Amanda and im 16. i was diagnosed with RA at 15 and has rapidly got worse. It first started in my left hand into my right and is now making its way into my left knee. the medication i have been giving has not been helping, nether are the over the counter pain relivers my mom has made me try. I can't handle the pain that much longer especially since i am in band and i have to hold a horn and march. Does anyone have any advise for me to help stop the pain. Also, since my knee hurts like crazy, it makes it very hard for me to work out, i cant run for that long, or put any strain on my knee. I have tried sit ups and other things but thw weight seems to sneaking up with out me really noticing, i am only 4'11 so most of my weight is in my middle section. Can someone please give me some advice. Thank you!

Romie

26 Aug 2009, 22:25

Everybody,
please get the book "The Makers diet" it is great. You eat very healty and have a lot of energy and are not starving. God bless all of you.

Nancy

19 Aug 2009, 01:20

When are physicians, dieticians and other health care professionals going to address the issue of weight gain as a result of medications for a chronic illness??? The usual "tips" and advice for weight loss do not necessarily work for such people and the patient ends up feeling chastised, dismissed, depressed and hopeless/helpless. The particular Rx may indeed be effective in treating the chronic illness but at what price to one's emotional and physical health? My once-willowy 26 yr old daughter has gained lots of weight since being treated with atypical antipsychotics for a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. She now has a metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance, elevated lipids and further weight gain and must take another medication to help with the insulin resistance, which causes her more side effects. Her endocrinologist referred her to a women's wellness clinic associated with a big hospital for consultation with a dietician, cardiologist, nutritionist, etc. Essentially, she was told that it was her fault and that she had to exercise more & eat less!! No empathy about her unique situation, no special recommendations from the dietician, no acknowledgement that the meds that help her remain functional and stable have caused this horrible weight gain. Can you imagine how she receives this kind of "treatment" when she already struggles with depression and low self-esteem? As her Mom who has witnessed her terrible journey with bipolar disorder and her ongoing struggles with lots of side effects from the meds, I am absolutely FURIOUS the so many health care professionals, including dieticians, are ignorant, unhelpful, dismissive and downright cruel. She tries hard to eat well and walks a lot but she doesn't have the time or the money to join a fitness club or take classes, per the "experts" she saw today. Rosalie and others who posted here, I "hear" your frustation and desperation. I hope this topic will be addressed on Arthritis Today, on other websites & and by ALL health care professionals who treat patients with these unique profiles.

Rosalie Davis

03 Aug 2009, 02:55

Hi, My namie is Rosalie Davis I'm 14 years old. I was diagnosed with RA when I was in the fourth grade, I have low thyroid and issues wih my digestion because of the medications I have been put on so it is difficult to eat certain things I am suppose to. Another problem is I vomit everytime I drink or smell milk so I do not drink milk which made me have low calcium. I have gained alot of wait from lack of motivation and it hurts to move for a long time, the arthritis is progressing into my right hip. So I am gaining all this weight and I can't lose it because of my thryroid problem, my doctor keeps scolding me about my weight but I honestly try my hardest. I need some advise for losing at leat 40 to 60 pounds. I can't go out shopping for myself and my parents think I want to become some thin barbie. But with all means I want to lose some weight. I am 169 lbs. and only 4'11 and I just think it would help alot if I lose 60 pounds and become 109.

With all concern and thanks,
Rosalie Ruth Mae Elizabeth Davis

Theresa

12 Jul 2009, 08:23

I was diagnosed with RA & fibromyalgia in March after 16+/- years of pain. Rheumatologist put me on prednisone & plaquinil right away & has since added methotrexate. I'm gaining weight faster than I ever have. I'm at the heaviest I've ever been in my life (12 lbs more than heaviest pregnancy) and the doc just smiles and nods and says it's the prednisone. I don't smoke, I don't eat a lot of red meat; I've cut out soda (allow myself a treat once a week). What can I do to counteract weight gain from prednisone? Help!

Jennie L.

02 Jul 2009, 08:14

My problem seem to be more in my hips and legs,as I have aged (58 now) I've slowed down and gained about 30 lbs. Some people say well thats not bad but it is if you are only 5ft 1/2in tall you cant carry extra weight.I have a Thyroid problem ,Im tired and really not the go getter I was. If have any suggestions E-MAIL ME.

mark bunney

09 Jun 2009, 11:27

eat 5 times a day smaller amounts is what works. to burn fat faster 100.lbs in a short time eat good foods.it works good luck

mahnoor

31 May 2009, 14:52

my diet requires lot of sugary things.i release my tention by eating alot.im tired of so many medications.i had gained 30 kg.please help me 2 plan my diet.

Renu

02 May 2009, 10:28

Hi,Maggie
I know a website"www.spakepeople.com",ifound it very helpful.if u register there they have individual plans as per our need,and it is absolutely free and many people r getting benefited from that.hope this will help u.
Cheers

Betty Adair

01 May 2009, 09:23

I have RA and as a result I also developed anemia of chronic disease which in turn lead to chronic kidney disease. With the kidney disease there are so many things that you cannot eat that you tend to eat too much of the things you can. When I met with the nutrionist/dietition I was told no artifical sweetners, sugar only. LIGHT foods, such as mayo, syrup, salad dressings, etc. will contain more sodium than regular which is a big, big no-no. About the only thing I can do is control portion size.

Lisa

21 Apr 2009, 23:35

I have lost 15 pounds since starting on medication for RA (about 3 months). I also have just started having fasting high blood sugar and have changed my diet accordingly. My advice is to cut out snacks or keep them at minimum. Part skim mozzerella string cheese sticks or walnuts/pecans make a good snack. Eat plenty of veggies and reduce red meat. Change to diet drinks and increase your water intake. I have also found that if I am outside doing something that keeps me busy or something that I like to do, I do not get hungry. I do drink alot of water if I am outside and/or exerting myself. Use a lunch size plate and do not go back for seconds unless it is for veggies (with no added butter - a little olive oil is okay). If you can change to whole wheat bread, brown rice, whole wheat or grain pasta, and drink tomato juice this will increase your fiber intake and will reduce washed enriched white bread/pasta/rice which turns to sugar in the body. Good luck to you all who are trying to loose weight. I'm right here with you!

Maggie

03 Apr 2009, 12:06

Hi I am a mother from two childs with my second baby I have
gained 30 pounds I need to loss weight, because I have some problems with my knees. Can somebody help me and tell me what can I do. I am sorry my English is terrible I hope you can understand me. Thanks

Hazel

31 Mar 2009, 06:46

I use a program from Dr.Eic Berg, he has a weight loss book called the 7 principles of fat burning, and gives you some body types to get you on the right plan They do not recommend artificial anything. the sweetner they recommend is pure stevia, which is a plant that is very sweet. you can buy it in powder form at a whole foods store or even Trader Joe's. They recommended me to use the vegetable and protein program to first cleanse the liver, as I am an adrenal type. I recommend you to get yourself a copy of the book, your body will love you for it. I hope this helps you to an eating program you can enjoy. I do not work for him, I am simply a person who went to his wellness center in Virginia, and really all you need is the book and some determination. I have so far lost 12 lbs on this easy diet and am thrilled. I have only 10 more to go. I hope this program can be of use to you, I have had great results from it. You can get the book thru Amazon.com or other book stores. I hope you will let me know if you can use this and if it works for you. It is very vegetable oriented
Cheers and enjoy.

Linda Keller

30 Mar 2009, 19:35

Janice, I know what you mean. I too have many autoimmune issues along with my RA and the steroids that I need to take to function are causing me to gain more and more. In the last year alone, I have gained 30 pounds! HELP!

Janice Silvestro

30 Mar 2009, 10:13

My diet requires no sugar substitutes and no fat free products. Also no soy. Needless to say I am frustrated with all weight loss programs. What can I do to lose weight? I have many autoimmune issues and the weight gain from many medications is almost too much to bear.

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