Motivation

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  • pk0199
    pk0199 Member Posts: 586
    edited March 2009

    Deanna,-the only reason you would be banned is for not sharing!

    Good to hear everyone is still going strong. I have yet to exercise today, may take the day off, may go for it later, we will see.

    Had to go to son's school to sign off on his courses for next year, grade 12, man where did the time go. We then did a bit of shopping. Picked up that Eat Clean by Reno. Want to flip through it now.

    Lisa, what is CoQ10 and why are you taking it? Every store I go into lately has it on display.Also which is the best B vitamin to take? I used to do the B100. One more, have been off the omega's for awhile, went to get more and now they have all these choices, any recommendations?

    Have a great weekend all!!

    Penny

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  • Springtime
    Springtime Member Posts: 5,355
    edited March 2009

    That Anti-Cancer book says chocolate over 70% cocoa is good, one square a day... I used to not like it, too bitter, but my tastes have changed and now milk choc makes me wince!

    Spring.

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  • vivre
    vivre Member Posts: 2,167
    edited March 2009

    Just found this thread. I have been working out almost everyday since I was dx, in 07. It has really changed my body, along with better eating. Something you might want to try that is fun and really great for the moving the lymph is rebounding(mini tramp). I do it in front of the TV at night and I really enjoy it.   I am a PE teacher and have always been very active, however I could never lose weight. Any kind of aerobic exercise really made me hungry, so while I had good muscle tone, I could not dump the pounds. To lose weight, you really need to mix it up. Muscles get use to the same exercise over and over, and you must add core and weight training. I walk with a 10 pound hand weight that I keep changing from hand to hand, so I do not over fatigue one arm. I also like doing core exercises on the balance balls. They are also good to use to just sit and watch tv on, as they will build strength. One simple thing to do on the ball, watching TV, riding in a car, etc. Think about pushing your navel back to your spine. This simple thing will really strengthen the abs.

    Lisa, thanks for FINALLY explaining Zumba!LOL

    Dani, be careful with the whey if you are ER+. It is not recommended. Eating nuts is a great way to add protein.

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  • PT63
    PT63 Member Posts: 329
    edited March 2009

    Today was my day off from exercise.  I have gone for 6 out of 7 days so I refuse to feel guilt.  DH had this afternoon off so we went out to lunch for Thai food.  I was a good girl and cut my portion in half immediately and boxed the second half.  I bought some fingerless Everlast gloves for kickboxing so I can really punch the bag.

    I am going to look for that Eat Clean book tomorrow.

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  • Springtime
    Springtime Member Posts: 5,355
    edited March 2009

    Vivre, I had heard the same thing about the mini tramp and like massaging the lymph system to get rid of toxins. I have one of those, just need to DO IT!!!!

    PT, GOOD FOR YOU on the boxing it up. I have yet to achieve that!!!

    Spring.

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  • dlb823
    dlb823 Member Posts: 9,430
    edited March 2009

    Just finished my almost 3 miles (in only 45 mins. today), and would not get back on here quite so quickly, except that I'm very interested in vivre's comment re. whey because I frequently use whey protein.  I was told (UCLA nutritionist several months ago) no soy protein, but that whey is okay.  Can you elaborate on why you think whey isn't okay for ER+?  Is this possibly newer info?   Deanna

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  • dani42
    dani42 Member Posts: 423
    edited March 2009

    vivre

    Mine was a prophylactic mastectomy but are you saying whey has estrogen?   

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  • dani42
    dani42 Member Posts: 423
    edited March 2009

    LorenaB

    You may have better luck getting some type of cardio equipment for home.  I had purchased an elliptical machine at walmart a couple of years ago.  It is not as nice as the one at the gym but it does the trick when I can't get to the gym.  My friend ordered that bowflex machine that is an elliptical-treadmill combination.  She is also a single mother, and has a hectic full-time job.  She plopped the machine in her living room because that is what works for her. 

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  • dani42
    dani42 Member Posts: 423
    edited March 2009

    Penny,

    My daughter is a senior now and will be graduating in June.  I plan on being a mess! 

    I also take CoQ10, which I believe is beneficial for the heart and circulatory system.  I take super b complex but use to take b complex with c. I also take fish oil supplements and whey protein shakes but I only drink the shakes if I have worked out that day. 

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  • vivre
    vivre Member Posts: 2,167
    edited March 2009

    Whey is one of those things that seems to be controversial, like soy and flax. Like soy and flax, they all have cancer preventing studies on them. The problem is where these products come from and that may negate the advantages. For instance soy beans are probably the most sprayed crop in the US. I would not touch it with a 10 foot pole because there is no way they can get the pesticides out. Sometimes the seeds are even treated with a pesticide before they are even planted. Pesticides and herbicides are major culprits in feeding estrogen pos. cancer. Could this be why vegans still get bc? Same story with flax. Whey is a milk based product and unless you can find some that is certified organic, it probably comes from a cow that was shot up with hormones and antibiotics. I do not use US diary products at all. They are much stricter about hormones and antibiotics in Europe, so I only buy euro cheeses and butter. Yeah, it is more expensive, but I use them sparingly. I can find the good stuff at farmers markets in the summer, and I am sure at whole foods. Read "Your Life In Your Hands" by Dr. Jane Plant for her analysis on dairy. I use organic rice drink in place of milk on my cereal and in smoothies.

    CoQ10 is one of the most important supplements you can take. When you are taking drugs like arimidex or tamox, they inhibit estrogens. Estrogen is really important for the heart to function. Taking coQ10 will help to lower cholesterol and has been shown to have as beneficial  effect as statin drugs.

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  • Springtime
    Springtime Member Posts: 5,355
    edited March 2009

    Gosh that is good to know about CoQ10 - I just started taking it recently.

    The whole soy flax (and now whey!!) thing is driving me batz! I saw a nutritionist at the cancer center. I asked should I have any soy, she said very little or none, so I do none as much as I can (though soy is in a lot of stuff!)

    I asked, should I give up cows milk for Almond milk? she said , No, but drink organic cows's milk (which I do, fat free). Vivre, what are your thoughts on organic milk? Still a no go from your perspective? (given you drink Rice milk?)

    I don't use whey at all, unless it has some other name and I'm using it and not knowing it! 

    I do use milled Flax seed. Vivre, would you say that also is pesticide city? 

    Spring. 

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  • susiered
    susiered Member Posts: 256
    edited March 2009

    Hi ladies, I found you! Since I will be finishing up rads Tuesday, I thought it was time to start thinking about getting healthy again. I have been hit hard by chemo, surgery, infections, and rads. My red blood cells are very low right now, so I figure I will start very slow and walk as much as I can.

    I have eaten good ol' southern food all my life and have to admit.....I have no idea how to eat healthy. I need some help here!! What things do I need to be eating and what do I need to be not eating. I know I have to change the way I eat, so any help would be appreciated.

    You ladies have me real excited about getting healthy again. I am going to take my husband and son on a nice walk tomorrow and enjoy the beautiful springlike weather we are having. Thanks for starting this thread!

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  • mumito
    mumito Member Posts: 4,562
    edited March 2009

    I will buy some Coq10 must of missed that one.  Took yesterday off but this morning I will head into the gym. The weather is warming up finally here in Toronto I think It helps to pull me out of this funk I was in.  Keep up the good work ladies we will all start to feel better together.

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  • Jordianna
    Jordianna Member Posts: 72
    edited March 2009

    Hi Everyone,

    Sorry I've been away for so long.  This week I've been really good at moving on with life and not focusing so much on cancer.  I think a lot of it had to do with being done with treatments and starting to feel more normal.  But, for me it also was staying away from the computer and searching for stuff.  I just felt much more like the "old me".  Finishing treatment (except for tamox.) was like a huge weight off of my shoulders for me.  I am especially glad to not have to run to medical appointments all of the time.

    The tenderness I had in my breast is much better, I'm back wearing what I want and doing what I want.  I even had my stubble colored by my hairdresser in case I'm brave enough to go wig free when I go to Florida.  How is everyone's hair doing?  I have a great cut if I was a man.  Still too short for me to be comfortable.  But, I figure no one in Florida knows me, so I might brave it then.  Plus, it will be a week longer.

    Fighting a cold, but hopefully it will be gone before I fly out on Friday.  I was never sick during chemo or radiation, but now I get a cold. I'm sure being back around my students doesn't help.

    Support group meeting this morning.  The topic is Breast Cancer Survivorship: Thriving in this Brave New World.  Sounds like a perfect topic for where I am right now.  I'll let you know how it goes.

    Have a great weekend.

    Jordie

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  • vivre
    vivre Member Posts: 2,167
    edited March 2009

    Spring, I was raised on drinking lots of milk. It was a tough habit to break, but one I think was essential. I have since come to the conclusion that cows milk is great for calves. Jane Plant's book really convinced me. That is why I only use rice drink, although they are probably spraying the rice too! That is the big problem. We need to start being activist to get the governement to stop allowing our food supply to be tainted. They have done it in other countries. It is time they do it here.

    Susiered-Congrats on taking that first step. The road ahead is much straigher now. Enjoy it. Remember, Don't look back, except to learn. The biggest motivator for me has been reading. I read every book I can on good health. Every new book, teaches me something more and reassures me that I am on the right path. Mosey on over to the library!

    Jordianna, I know how you feel about the need to get away from cancer. I felt the same way. That is why I tend to stay to the alternatives and moving on thread. The only reason I am still here is to show others that their is a good life after cancer. There is a healthier life after cancer. I feel healthier now than I did before bc and that gives me the conviction that it is not coming back. Knowlege is power and I am feeling very powerful from all I have learned. I am not a survivor. I am a thriver! Hope you will all join me!

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  • mumito
    mumito Member Posts: 4,562
    edited March 2009

    susiered  I found a book called beating cancer with Nutrition.  Found it very informative and I even started adding some supplements to my diet which I never did pre bc.Its not hard to eat healthier and you don't have to overboard either.  Life is too short to give up all the good tastes out there.

    Now If I could just drop a few pounds I woulf really be a happy camper.

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  • Springtime
    Springtime Member Posts: 5,355
    edited March 2009

    Susie! You found us! This seems to be a natural "landing ground" for many of us who have just finished up with Rads.... Welcome. Deanna is here too! And Chris!   How goes the skin, hon? I am a week and a half out from finishing and it is nearly all healed!!!! ((Healing Happy Dance!!!))

    As for foods: I really liked the book "Anti-Cancer, A New Way of Life". It has great guidance about foods, exercise, and drestressing/serenity practices. It is my guide now, and I have also made some notes on bookes Vivre has recommended. (Jane Planet's book, and Tosca Reno's "Eat Clean". I have a file on my computer that says "LOOK INTO" right on my desktop, and when somebody mentiones something I stick it in there. I also have in there "Ndole-3-Carbinol (I3C) and Curcumin!!! (I don't know what those are but am going to LOOK INTO them!!!) I also listed Zumba!

    Jordie, do tell when you get back from that meeting! Sounds like a perfect topic...

    Mumayan, I took yesterday off too. Today I am walking! I am also going to Henna my hair (totally natural no chemicals) and I am excited.... I need to take a before and after shot and post!

    Spring...

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  • mumito
    mumito Member Posts: 4,562
    edited March 2009

    Let me know how the Henna looks. I can't decide what colour to do mine.

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  • Springtime
    Springtime Member Posts: 5,355
    edited March 2009

    Mum, I got all sorts of colors, I am starting with the lightest blonde color I have, "sweedish blonde" I will let you know!!!

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  • flannelette
    flannelette Member Posts: 984
    edited March 2009

    Hello Everyone - I just found this thread, and it's great for me as I too just finished the whole shebang (mast, chemo, rads) and have to move on to a healthier life now that I'm out of the nest. Luckily I found a new doctor who is really into preventive medicine so she suggested I lose weight, start exercising, and gave me a book she believes in to read "Cooking with Foods that Fight Cancer" -also  "Foods that Fight Cancer" both by Richard Beliveau, from a cancer research group in Montreal. I too have been reading up on soy & flax - and  other foods & their benefits. My dr. suggested an exercise rehabilitationist at our local Y, & I met him, & will start in a few weeks once my tiredness from rads dwindles. I am SO out of shape and lots of FAT around my middle, probably storing & producing estrogen, so it's gotta go. I started Arimidex a month ago. My dr. wants me to do weight-bearing exercises, as arim. can cause bone loss, also lots of joint aches & pains.

    Anyway, I've enjoyed reading your posts, gleaning info. I've heard about Anti-cancer on several threads so will read it. 

    I too have a great hair cut for a man, and to top it all off it's silver! but it's kind of funky, too, so it'll stay, and I've been going out in public without a beret for a month, and really feel good about it. but know I'll feel SO much better when I become fit!

    All during my hospital care I managed to avoid being told my stage, as I was afraid it would depress me, and depression would be the kiss of d...h. Instead, I was very happy & optimistic, just going with the flow & nothing much got me down, or even hurt. the other day I was in a US hospital waiting room, picked up a pamphlet on bc & there where I could not avoid it I learned I am stage 3. Well now I know. But it's OK. i couldn't have accepted this earlier on, it might have defeated me. so I'm hoping all the treatments blasted any remaining hooligans to smithereens, and now I'll be doing a gentle version of that for myself, through food and exercise. It's a project!

    Glad I found you.

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  • dlb823
    dlb823 Member Posts: 9,430
    edited March 2009

    Good morning everyone, especially souad and Susan and (without looking back) anyone else who is new.  It's great to see new faces, and I'm amazed at how much excellent information and ideas we have to share. I was especially interested in vivre's take on US made cheese. I only buy hormone-free milk, but had never thought about all the jack and cheddar we cook with -- duh?!  Now I won't feel the least bit guilty buying the pricier hormone-free versions of those, as well as all the brie, etc., we like love.

    Well, weekends are often my downfall re. exercise -- getting up later than usual, so many other more appealing things to do, DH around, so I feel "guilty" taking that me time -- I'm sure many of you can relate.  But that 50% risk reduction is a powerful incentive, so I threw on my walking clothes, and out the door I went.  It's absolutely gorgeous here today, so I easily did 3 miles in 45 minutes.  Tomorrow DH & I are hoping to do some hiking, which will be a nice change of pace.

    I hope everyone is having a great weekend, as we all grow together towards a healthier lifestyle and habits ~  Deanna

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  • lisasayers
    lisasayers Member Posts: 850
    edited March 2009

    Good Fabulous day ladies!  I was up at 6:30 and out the door at 7:30 to teach my 8 am Zumba class!  I love getting the day started that way, as I accomplish so much more.  Now tomorrow I will sleep in a bit!  LOL

    Thanks for the new book recommendations Souad...will check those out today!

    I also stopped drinking milk about two years ago when I read The Eat Clean Diet book.  Now I use almond milk, which I love.  Even have my daughter on that.  I will buy the organic milk for my family, as they haven't been able to switch over to everything like I have.  Baby steps! 

    Enjoy the day!

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  • Wink
    Wink Member Posts: 722
    edited March 2009

    Hi Ladies! My name is Donna and I would like to join y' all - thanks for the directions Springy!  I've just caught up reading all of the posts on this thread.  I love the accountability issue!  I am an expert at rationalizing why I can't exercise!  I do however, work in a clinical laboratory and am on my feet & moving most of the time.  I'm going to start wearing a pedometer again - I had it on when I was working a particularly grueling shift in the chemistry dept and actually had ~ 9000 steps at the end of the shift.

    I eat well and mostly clean, but I have a problem with portion control.  Am doing weight watchers on-line right now and have lost 11 lbs since the middle of Jan.  Sweets are my downfall also.  Not donuts, cakes, pies, etc...but ice cream and frozen desserts are my passion.  I can't do the sugarfree stuff that has alchol sugars in it (xylitol [sp?], manitol, etc); they totally tear up my gut! I have stopped using Splenda and started using Truvia - does not have the bitterness of straight stevia.  I also use only organic milk & half-n-half (have to have it in my organic coffee Innocent). 

    My goal is to start walking my dogs at least 3 times a week down to the bottom of our mountain and back (pretty steep grade).  I have an exercise ball and love the idea of watching TV & working at the computer with it!  I'll have to get out my mini-tramp and use it too!  I soooo want to get a Wii and the Wii Fit - I just haven't been able to justify the cost - maybe I'll do the lay-away thing next time I see it on sale at Came-A-Part.

    My hair has been growing like gang-busters; I've colored it twice and can't keep up with the roots (mostly salt with a little pepper); it's a great measure of how fast it's growing.  Need to get some Dapper Dan to get it to spike a little bit...lol.

    I'm working 2 - 16.5 hour shifts this weekend (I barely have time to sleep tonight, especially losing an hour), but come Monday - look out dogs!

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  • Springtime
    Springtime Member Posts: 5,355
    edited March 2009

    Good afternoon you beauuuuuutiful women!!! 

    Souad, I think you are stage 2!!! (given what it says in your closing) See Stages here (unless you don't want to, then DON't!). I had a whopper of a tumor too (but it didn't come out until after chemo) so I'll never know how big it really was prior, as they only measure the invasive part and the biopsy showed 40% DCIS, whatever. I think at least 5cm.  Anyway, IT IS GONE NOW!!! And so is yours!!! And so, onward we go with Health and Life!

    Welcome to my Winkie! Donna! 9000 steps is amazing!!! WW is a great program, it's what I always use too! Good for you for down 11!. 

    Lisa! You go ZUMBA WOMAN!!!

    Deanna, way to go! And it only took 45 minutes. Good Woman!!!

    My DH and I did a longer than ususal walk today, he suggested adding in a new street! (we walk in our neighborhood!) So I think we were close to 4 miles, feels so good! Georgous here too in NC, sunny, warm! 

    OK will post pics below (I hope) showing before and after "Sweedish Blonde" henna treatment! I am gong to try one with more "red" in it next, Strawberry blonde I think! wooooo!

    Dang I cant' fiture out to post pics that are not already out on the Web, I will have to figure this out!

    Spring.

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  • lexislove
    lexislove Member Posts: 2,645
    edited March 2009

    Ok ladies.....I need motivation...lol

    I have a full gym downstairs...but I always seem to be so tired. I have a 3 year old that I run around with everyday!

    I finished chemo a year ago..so my energy is pretty much back. It's already March and I would like to loose 20 lbs by June so.....3 month...about 6 pounds a month wich is doable.

    They say 1-2 pounds a week is healthy...Help ladies. Anybody have any tips? I use to be a morning person ...and would like to get like that again. Working out is better for me in the morning. Embarassed

     Glad I found this thread

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  • Jordianna
    Jordianna Member Posts: 72
    edited March 2009

    Hi All,

    Support group was good.  The doctor who presented is head of integrative medicine at the cancer center.  I didn't learn a whole lot that I didn't already know, but the contact with both him and the survivors was helpful for me.  He did provide some interesting information on incorporating medicinal mushrooms into your diet.  For anyone interested, the types he mentioned are:  maitake, shiitake, agaricus and reishi. 

    I think I'm going to schedule an appointment with him as he does consults.  It is good to find MD who doesn't "pooh-pooh" other treatments. 

    Rainy here today and cool.  Bought sunscreen for Florida.  I asked rad onc about sun exposure to treated area.  She said just to keep a high number sunscreen on the area, but don't obsess about it.  Next week at this time, I'll be where it is sunny and warm.  Really looking forward to that.

    Hope you're all doing well.  I've got to get with the program and start back at the gym.  I keep telling myself I'll do it after my spring break. 

    Jordie

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  • PT63
    PT63 Member Posts: 329
    edited March 2009

    Congratulations to all of you healthy eaters.  I do really well for awhile but there are just some things I can't give up.  I have changed to more organic items.  I have never been much of a sweets eater but I really wish I could lay off the bread.

    Exercise today was a brisk hour walk with the dog and 40 minutes in the weight room.  I was silly enough to stand on the scale at the gym and found that I have gained a pound.  Hate that!

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  • susiered
    susiered Member Posts: 256
    edited March 2009

    Well ladies I rode my bike with my son for about 15 min today. That is all I could do, but hey it is a start huh?

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  • PT63
    PT63 Member Posts: 329
    edited March 2009

    Susiered

    Whoo Hoo! You glow girl!  We all have a starting point....I hope it was a beautiful day for you!

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  • dlb823
    dlb823 Member Posts: 9,430
    edited March 2009

    Susan ~  Yes, great work -- and especially since I know you're still finishing up rads!  I'm proud of you for getting out there!   

    Hi, Wink ~  So good to see you again!  I remember you from the TC board. And congrats on the 11 lbs. weight loss!  That's great!  Are you and Spring in the same area of NC?    Deanna

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