Well, it’s been a while since I posted here. I kind of had a feeling that would happen. I’m known for jumping around from project to project.
In any case, this is how things are faring for me these days. Due to the injured foot, I never quite made it back to running…or any type of exercise…since last September. My diet has remained the same as it was last spring/summer. I was able to maintain my weight for about 6 months after ceasing my exercise routine. It was at that point (in March 2009) that I contracted mono, which then seemed to trigger my panic disorder, causing a world of havoc for my poor body. For anyone who has battled anxiety and panic, I assume you can relate my telling you that is was a long, scary battle to fight. After being place on anxiety medication about a month ago, I lost another 5 pounds and I am now maintaining my weight at 117 pounds. My anxiety is under control again and my energy levels are back to what they were before the mono. What is interesting to note is that even though my diet is nearly flawless – all good fats, low-glycemic, whole grains, fruits, veggies (sometimes) – my cholesterol has gone up again.
This surprised me.
I lost 45 pounds last year and I have kept my diet as healthy as it was last spring. I was certain that this be enough to keep my cholesterol at the same levels. After consulting with a nutritionist, we determined that it is most likely due to 2 possible factors: lack of exercise and/or genetics.
Since my diet can’t really get much better than it already is…aside from possibly needing a few more veggies and a little more fiber…the only change from last spring is the amount of exercise I am getting (or not getting, actually.) It sure does seem as though continuous exercise is going to be a necessity for me in order to keep my cholesterol low. I am so used to seeing exercise as a means to lose weight that I forgot that it provides other benefits as well. Additionally, it would also help keep my anxiety disorder under control.
So, all in all, I have to figure out a way to add exercise back into my life. Forever. My food intake is enough to keep the weight loss where it is, but total health requires more than just a low number on the scale. Staying active seems to provide the body with a boost that we can’t get anywhere else. I am excited to see how much a change those cholesterol numbers show after 6 months of sticking to an exercise routine. I’ll keep you posted!
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