I know that some of us have been on the DEM for at least a month, so I wanted to ask how everyone was doing.  To reiterate an earlier post, I am currently trying to lose 30-35 pounds.  Today (2/19/12) is my 14th day on the initial DEM phase.  I have lost 8 pounds so far.  I am happy with that but decided to itemize what I did or did not do that may have inhibited additional weight loss.  I am listing these items because they may help others as well. 

1.  Against JJ's advice, I purchased Psyllium Husk fiber because I was not able to find Acacia at Whole Foods or Sprouts.  I used it for the first week and felt bloated & fat although I was losing weight.  I stopped using it for the second week and my stomach went down.  So, I went online this morning and ordered "Heather's Tummy Fiber."  It is a 16oz pouch of Acacia Senegal fiber. 

2. I did not purchase the green drink because I was juicing fresh vegetables.  BUT, there were days that I didn't do it (laziness or busy) and I wished that I would have had the powder as my back up. So, I also went online and purchased the Green Vibrance this morning as well.  I am still going to juice but will now have my back up plan.

3.  I have NOT been drinking half of my body weight in water.  I have been drinking a lot of water but not as much as I should.  More laziness or just running out. When going shopping, I plan to ALWAYS make sure I never drop below two gallons in the house. I am also going to measure the water and make sure I consume the correct amount of daily ounces.

4.  I also delayed ordering the MagO7.  I was trying to use the Senna and Casgara Sagrada (herbal laxatives) that I already had.  But some mornings, no movement SO I bit the bullet and got the MagO7.  I've used it for the last two days and have had good results. 

5.  I had some MEAT a couple of times.  But, I can honestly say that I didn't over do it and I only had lean proteins (skinless chicken breast, tilapia and flank steak).  But for this last week, no more meat…I promise! BUT after next week, I do plan on reincorporating the meat.  I tried the vegeterian "thing," and it is not for your girl at all. LOL

6.  The M in the DEM.  I have not been moving.  I never realized how much I sit until I read this book.  JJ gives good suggestions, but I am lazy.  Yes, I admit it…I don't like taking walks, doing yoga or anything.  BUT I know I have to so I will take some of JJ's suggestions to heart and try my best to put them into practice.

7.  I'm 43, I have three kids and I need my WINE!! That's my story and I'm sticking to it!!

8.  I saved my biggest offense for the end…PORTION SIZE!! This is so very important.  I was so excited that I could eat beans.  I love them but usually avoided them due to their carb count.  So, I cooked myself a big ole' pot of pinto beans and had a great time…until I read in the book that you should not have more than 30 grams of carbs in one meal!! Yikes, I had eaten that 3X over.  But I chalked it up as knowledge is power and forgave myself. NOW I keep serving size in mind when using high fat and carb items like salad dressing, olive oil, beans, hummus and whole grain pasta.   

I hope this helps someone out there who has been struggling.  Can others also post their experiences, suggestions & weight loss as well??I'll check back in two weeks…

Hey JJ

I just wanted to say THANK YOU for choosing to read my letter on the Steve Harvey show this morning!!! How thrilled was I to realize that that 43 year old chick with the three kids sounded just like me…until I realized that she WAS me.  Hearing my words read from Steve's mouth sounded like a true testimonial to your system.  I felt "re-inspired" and will remember that exciting moment as I continue on my journey. And in regard to before and after pictures, I think that would be a splendid idea to keep all of us totally motivated to change. Once added as a feature, I will be more than happy to provide a photo, as I am sure many other women will as well.

Also, congratulations to you on winning over Steve Harvey and getting B&N to carry your book.  You are about to BLOW UP!! I'm so glad that we (Sisters Getting Slim) started your system NOW because this personal attention that you provide in these forums may not be around much longer!!  Thanks again and enjoy this wonderful time in your life.