What are your weight-control goals?

I had lost 18.5 kg in the last three years since my last baby was born, but have regained 8.5 kg in the last year. I am back on track now, and have lost 2.5 kg so I can't wait to get back down to my target (and below). I would like to reach my target of 70 kg in the next few months when my parents hope to visit. Then, after that, I plan on losing a bit more to get down into the middle of my healthy-weight range. One of my goals is also to try to 'normalise' my eating behaviour and stop the 'skimp, skimp skimp, binge' habit I had developed. I am really trying to take the opportunity to make life-long behavioural changes which I can stick to.

What is your motivation for losing weight?

My original motivation was to get my body back close to the shape it was in before I became pregnant. I managed to lose the 18.5 kg I'd gained during pregnancy, which really felt great. But I then put some of the weight back on. Problems with my liver and general health have encouraged me to lose the excess weight and get back into my healthy-weight range. Also the fact that the weight was creeping back on and my clothes were getting too tight led me to realise the need to make some changes again. I am really working on being able to eat normally and not restrict myself and then binge later. Rather I want to eat a variety of good food and treats, in moderation, and really enjoy them. Someone once told me that you need to learn to "make love" to your food, eat it slowly and enjoy every morsel, not wolf it down...I am really trying!

What is your weight-loss method?

I have never been one to use fad diets as I have had problems with my health and don't want to aggravate anything. So I have always succeeded in losing weight by eating healthy well-balanced meals, limiting my snacks and increasing my exercise. I must say that reducing the snacks and increasing the exercise make the biggest difference as our meals are always well-balanced. It is definitely the extras that stack on the weight.

What obstacles have you encountered while losing weight?

My husband and family have always encouraged and supported me no matter how much I weighed, and whenever I have worked at losing weight. My biggest obstacles have to have been my sugary cravings, snacking in between meals and my wavering motivation to eat well and exercise. I sometimes just go a bit haywire and can eat and eat, when I am not even hungry. I have also tended to comfort eat when I am down or stressed...and all these things have contributed to me regaining some of my weight in the last year.

What tips do you have for others who are trying to lose weight?

One of the most important skills you need to learn to lose weight is PLANNING. Make time to plan what you will eat all day, meals and snacks included. Also plan your exercise time, or it won't happen. We are all too busy nowadays, so the time doesn't just fall into your lap, you need to make the time. Also involve your family, get them to exercise with you, and don't try to eat differently from them, at least not very often, as it becomes too difficult to cook two different meals every night. Make changes slowly so they don't notice and object. Just think, you are benefiting their present and future health too.

How do you feel now that you're achieving success?

Originally when I had lost the 18.5 kg I felt terrific! I had so many compliments and it was so flattering... unfortunately I let things slip and gained some more weight which I need to lose. I am, however, itching to get there. At the moment I am happy with my success and I am motivated to lose the last 6 kg and keep it off. I am looking forward to reaching my goal and posting an updated success story and photo!

How have the products or services offered by CalorieKing.com.au helped you to lose weight?

CalorieKing.com.au has been great. The forums are just wonderful. It is a great opportunity to get support, advice and encouragement as well as giving us all an opportunity to have a good whinge. I love the charts on the personal page; I enjoy reading the weekly tutorials; the recipes are great; and the articles are helpful, especially when you need a bit of a boost. All in all, well done CalorieKing!