> About Dr Amanda > Biography > I dieted myself fat
I dieted myself fat
Personally, I found out the hard way that conventional methods of weight loss don't work.
For six years I tried in vain to lose weight the conventional way; eat less, move more, and keep going until you reach your ideal weight.
Although I was able to lose a few kilos at the start of new weight loss attempts, invariably I'd hit an invisible wall of resistance. I'd suddenly get inexplicably hungry and start craving all sorts of anti-diet foods. Things like lasagna, sausages or crackers with cheese and salami….all the things I was trying to avoid.
Even if I summoned huge gusts of willpower to resist my hunger and keep going with the diet, inevitably my weight would plateau and stay disappointingly the same. I'd start cheating, and that would gradually spiral out of control into bingeing. I'd binge for days and sometimes weeks, making up for past deprivations and preparing myself for my next weight loss attempt.
And what was the result of trying to lose weight the conventional way? Pictures of me say it all.
What our readers say...
"Hi Amanda. Well, what a wonderful 2 weeks I've had. I just love food, and cooking. So to be able to eat so well over the past 2 weeks and lose weight has just been such a thrill for me. I've been cooking recipes from lots of different cookbooks, and eaten out a few times too, and enjoyed every mouthful. Over the past couple of years I've gone on strict calorie-controlled diets, lost weight, and then gone to the other extreme eating the foods I craved during that period, and in huge portions. I'd even eat when I wasn't hungry at all, just for the sake of it. So to now be at a place where I can eat the foods I really love, like coffee with sugar (not splenda) and all types of cheese (not just cottage cheese) and yogurt (not just 'no fat' brands) and beautiful breads, is such a relief. As you can see from my attached Success Diary, I've lost 1.8 kilos in the past 2 weeks. And I know this is something I'm going to be able to continue. Having said that, I'd be open to any feedback you have on the contents of my diary. It's been really interesting listening to my body for hunger signals. Some days I've eaten every few hours, and other days I have eaten 3 small meals only, and been completely satisfied. I'm learning that I'm not generally as hungry at night, so I'm serving myself a smaller portion, and going back for seconds if I truly want it. I'm also aware that I eat a lot more when I travel down to Melbourne to spend time with my Dad and sisters. So I need to be aware of that for next visit. I think this will become easier over time. Thank you so much for this gift! I've even got my two sisters reading your book now. With thanks, Ramona"