HCG UPDATE

Mar 23, 2012

Hey OH,

So I am currently on Day 23 of HCG and I have lost 15 lbs. I am on my TOM so I am retaining liquid. The good thing about HCG is you NOTICE the weight loss because its getting rid of stored fat. I have stayed pretty true to the diet. I will have sugar free jello or pickles as snacks when i can't take the anxiety. I am happy with the results so far. I have 17 days to go until The Maintenance Stage . I'm hoping to lose another 8-10 lbs.

It definitely gets easier as the days go by, Sugar, Carb and Fat cravings diminish for the most part. I feel more energized and less sluggish/ bloated.

Keep you posted

Natalie
text 305-766-1375
FB natalie carmona
0 comments

20 months out!

Mar 15, 2012

Wow! I cannot believe the last time I posted was in October! & that I am almost at my 2 year mark! Time has seriously flown by. I have A LOT to update!  

First of all, I have not reached my goal weight. I fluctuate between 170-180. It is true, the closer you get to your goal, the slower you lose. I have taken “breaks” from dieting here and there. I never gain more than 5 lbs. I start to panic and get right back on a diet. I am able to eat more at times now. It scares me a little bit even though its nowhere near what I used to be able to put in my stomach. I can eat about 6-7 ounces of food at one sitting now. That’s about twice the amount I was able to eat the first year out of surgery. My problem is grazing. Feels like I have to eat a little something every hour or so. Which wouldn’t be too bad if I made healthier choices.  I am currently doing a cycle of HCG. I Have lost about 10 lbs in the last 14 days. I also, started back at the gym. 5 days a week of cardio and strength training.  

Also, I am very proud to say that I have been taking my vitamins and supplements religiously. I did not do that for the first year and I was always exhausted. My hemoglobin level had dropped to a 7.2. Very anemic. It is now 11.2. Now quite where it should be but its gotten a lot better. My hair has finally stopped falling out in clumps, and I see a lot of new growth which I am very excited about. Of all the side effect of the surgery, the hair loss was the most depressing.  At it’s worse, you could my scalp through my hair. I would have to use TOPPIK, a powdery fiber substance that mimics hair to fill in the bald spots. I recommend to any of you who are experiencing thinning. 

  I started seeing someone in September. Quite honestly, I am settling. I don’t know why. I am not happy most of the time. In the back of my mind I feel as though he may be a stepping stone until I feel better about myself. That’s what I am struggling with the most now. My confidence is so low now. When I was 307 lbs, My confidence soared, my self esteem was through the roof. Now, I see all the wrong things about myself. The loose skin, stretch mark, cellulite, thin hair. Has anyone else experienced this? The loss of confidence?  

On a brighter note, I am consulting with different doctors for my PS procedures. I am hoping to schedule it for the Summer. I plan to have a Tummy Tuck, Breast Lift with Augmentation and Lipo of the arms and back. I am hoping to continue working on my legs and not need a thigh lift, because that scar is pretty bad. ( my mom had it a few years ago). Ideally I would like to be a my goal of 160 before going in, I’m estimate about 15-20 lbs of skin and fat to be removed so I’d end up at about 140-145. I am still consulting so I will let you guys know when it is finalized.  

Love u!
Naty
FB: Natalie Carmona
Text : 305-766-1375
5 comments

picture update 15 months out!! - 110 lbs

Oct 07, 2011

0 comments

quick post about HCG Diet

Aug 14, 2011

Hey OH!
So...i was stalled at 206 lbs for about 2 months. i was dieting and working out and the weight was just stuck!
a few of my friends and co-workers had tried the HCG diet and had great results so when i saw the drops on sale through groupon for $40 i decided to give it a try. I am now on day 7 and have lost 11 lbs! Let me tell you, it is not easy! even with my tiny VSG tummy, the amount of food is very, very limited. Most of the time, however, I think im experiencing cravings and head hunger than actual, real hunger. But you know what? For the first since middle school, i am under 200 lbs. Thats right! I am currently residing in Onederland :)

I know that HCG is very controversial and alot of WLS patients are against it but its something i decided to try for myself and so far I've had great results. I have broken some of the rules on the protocol. I wear make-up and lotions. I mix vegetables and use about 3 limes a day instead of 1.

Also, I have gotten very creative with my meals using the allowed foods. if any of you are currently doing HCG and want some recipe suggestions, let me know.

I am currently 196.4 lbs from 307 pre-op :)
0 comments

a little this , a little that

Jul 27, 2011

Hey OH!
Hope everyone is doing well!

I am now 13 months out from having the sleeve & all in all i'm very happy with my decision!

However, I have had some issues. I have experienced major hair loss. Mostly due to my irresponsibility and lack of commitment to my vitamin intake. The first few months, the hair loss was minimum. At about 9 months out, it got bad! Last month, i went for one year labwork and i was not surprised to find out I was very anemic along with  B12 defficiencies and low on pretty much every other vitamin. Needless to say, my energy level was dragging on the floor, my skin was dull, hair falling out in clumps and i was experiencing dizzy spells. The doctor prescribed me iron supplements, b12 shots, and iron nasal spray. I have also added biotin, b complex, Omega/fish oil complex and a weaight management multi vitamin. i have already felt some improvement but my doctor said i need to give it about 3 months to really back to normal.

Aside from the biotin supplements to help my hair grow, I have also been using an at-home remedy to stimulate the follicles and encourage healthy hair growth. i mix a tbsp of jojoba oil, 5 drops of rosemary oil and 2 drops of lavendar oil and i rub it on my scalp every other night and wash it out in the morning.  Ive been doing this for about a month and yesterday i was soooo exciuted to see little baby hair sprouting ;)


I have lost a little over 100 lbs. im about 35 lbs from my goal weight and i still see the same 300lbs+ girl in the mirror. I pick up clothes in my current size and think to myself "there is no way i will fit in this" and then someone snaps a picture of me and i honestly cant believe its me. Everyone says they dont even remember the bigger me anymore. and sometimes i get depressed over the loose skin, the cellulite, the stretch marks and pretty much this body suit of the fat girl melting. i know the closer i get to goal, the better the loose skin will be and the cellulite has gotten better since i started excersizing but sometimes i get so mad at myself for damamging my body this way. For the most part, i have always been very confident, even at my heaviest. Lately i have had more ups and down with my self image then i ever remember having before. Granted, i just got out of a very emotionally abusive relationship with a narcissist who was unfaithful for the most part of the 10 years so of course that took it toll on my self esteem . physically he never put me down, in fact it was the only thing he seemed to like about me.  even at my heaviest, he was always attracted to me physically and sexually. He put me down in every other way, from the music i listened, the way i was, what i enjoyed doing, my friends. Whoever has dealt with this kind of sociopath understands the devastation they cause. Fortunately i have broken free, i am seeing a therapist, attending church, got a restraining order and changed my number.

I am working on a healthier me, inside and out. Mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Losing weight is just the beginning...


until next time my friends!




0 comments

update :)

Apr 11, 2011

Hey everyone! Just stopping by with a little update. It will be 10 months on the 28th that I had my sleeve done. I have lost 100 lbs, fluctuating a few lbs here and there. Yes, I have lost hair. Yes, I have flabbiness and loose skin. Yes, I have slacked on protein and water. Yes, I have fallen off the diet at times for weeks at a time. And YES, I am living. YES, I am doing things I never did before. YES, I’m wearing clothes I only dreamed of before.   
I’m doing Zumba, Salsa, Spinning, Merengue and all kinds of classes at the gym. I’ve started adding weight training as well.   I’m totally in love with my collarbones!   I ended my 10 year relationship with an emotionally abusive Narcissist.   & I feel AMAZING!   I’ve also been going to church and I have loved getting to know more about God. I like to refer to it as Dating. I’m dating God. Getting to know him, spending time with Him. I’m loving it.   My weight stalled and fluctuates now. This is the hard part. I’m able to eat more now but I do forget the water . and the vitamins. I know, I know! Not good! I’m just so busy living a normal life I forget I don’t have “normal” tummy. My sleeve is soo good to me though. I love her! Lol   Well guys, here is a little progress pic. I’m hoping that by my 1 year surgiversary picture to have lost the last 35 lbs! see you guys later x0x0x0

6 comments

-100 lbs

Feb 23, 2011

hey oh!
ive been so busy and i feel soooo guilty that i havent updated in a few weeks. i have been working 3 jobs. yes. 3!!!! 6 months ago i barely had energy or desire for 1. lol

so i got a weekend job at a salon doing makeup, facials, nails and waxing

and i also landed an awesome gig on South Beach working a P&G event promoting Covergirl Cosmetics ;)

its been freaking awesome! i also finally reached the -100lbs mark . woohooo.

oh yea, i cut my hair. shortest i have ever had my hair. but i needed it. the hair loss is still going strong ;(

i wear med/large shirts and 15/16 pants. my bottom half is shrinking at a much lower pace than my top half but hey ill take it. i used to wear a 24! my lab work came in a couple weeks ago and everything is all good. i am able to eat slightly more now but i still have to be careful with drinking too soon after eating. small price to pay for all the wonderful things that have com along with my weight loss. oh btw, the shopping addiction curse that comes along with WLS has hit me hard. i cant help it. but now im saving for my new car. im test driving a few . ill let you guys know what i decide to go with . well thats my quick update
 

love you guysssss




3 comments

6 months!

Feb 01, 2011

Hey Oh! So I missed my 6 month update! Im sooo sorry my friends but I have been so busy. Also, my weight loss has come to a screeching halt. But I am losing inches which is awesome ;D But anyways here is a quick pic. I will be back soon! Love you all <333

3 comments

Week 24 & 25 - 90 lbs

Jan 24, 2011

Highest Weight 307 Surgery Weight 294 – 11lbs
Week 1 Post-Op 280 – 14lbs
Week 2 Post-Op 274 – 6 lbs  
Week 3 Post-Op 274 - 0 lbs grr!

Week 4 Post-Op 271 – 3 lbs   
Week 5 post-op 270 - 1 lbs
Week 6 post-op 000-0 lbs( TOM) 
Week 7 Post-op 265 - 5lbs
Week 8 Post-op 263 - 2lbs
Week 9 Post-op 261 - 2 lbs
Week 10 Post-op 259 - 2lbs (TOM)
Week 11 Post-op 257 - 2 lbs 
Week 12 Post-op 257 -0 lbs
Week 13 Post-op 257 - 0 lbs
Week 14 Post- Op 253 - 4lbs (TOM)
Week 15 Post-Op 245 - 8 lbs
Week 16 Post-Op 242 -3 lbs
Week 17 Post-Op 238 - 4 lbs (TOM)
Week 18 Post-Op 235 - 3 lbs
Week 19 Post-Op 232 – 3lbs
Week 20 Post-Op 229 – 3lbs
Week 21 Post-Op 227 - 2 lbs (TOM)
Week 22 Post-Op  224 – 3lbs
Week 23 Post-op 219 – 5lbs
Week 24 Post-op 219 -0lbs
Week 25 Post-Op 217 -2lbs (TOM)
Total -90 lbs 

Hey OH Friends & Family,

                So sorry I have been so lost lately. I’ve been incredibly busy since graduating. I have been working on Fashion shows and photo shoots every week! Aside from working full time, I have also been making house calls for manicures, facials, makeup and waxing. Its been crazy and I absolutely love it! I have an online portfolio if you guys want to check it out. Its currently under construction and it needs a lot of work and it needs to be updated but you are more than welcome to visit www.modelmayhem.beautyblissbynatalie . Oh and I also got my braces! Finally! They are the worst thing I have ever done to myself. People ask me whats worse, the braces or the sleeve surgery and by far it is these damn braces! I keep telling myself it will be worth it in the end but I don’t seem to be very convincing lol. My weight loss has slowed considerably but I am getting smaller. I bought a skirt! A freaking skirt, size 15. I cannot remember when was the last time I wore a skirt. And get this, a size medium shirt. Tucked into my skirt. With tall boots! I don’t have to tell you how amazing I felt! Woohoooo! And with good always comes a little bit of bad to rain on my parade, my hair is still falling out a lot. It’s incredibly thin now& it’s quite noticeable. It’s frustrating and depressing and it makes me want to cry at times. My hair has always been one of my favorite things about myself & it’s difficult to see it on my brush, in my hands & basically everywhere but my head. I do see some new growth & I know it will take time for my body to adjust to all the changes but I can’t help but mourn the loss. but even with that, I would do the surgery again in a heartbeat. At times, I feel like my mind hasn’t caught up with what has happened to my body and I still see the 300+ lbs Natalie in the mirror but then someone snaps a picture of me & I honestly can’t believe that’s me. I have to ask, do I really like that in real life? Lol! And what is completely surreal to me is that people now ask me for weight loss advice. Not only that, but they ask me for fashion and beauty advice as well. This experience has been so rewarding in so many more ways than just a smaller number on the scale. At one of the fashion shows I worked I was approached about doing Plus Sized Modeling. I have a shoot set for next week. Of course I will be posting pictures! Oh and for my single girls, the attention from the male species has been overwhelming! I am not ashamed of my weight loss & they are all aware of it & have seen my before pictures on Facebook. I’m much more comfortable in my skin now & I think it shows.

 

Wow, that was lot of topics to cover in one paragraph lol.

<3,
nat
Add me on Facebook: Natalie Carmona
Twitter: NatyGotGame
Myspace:
[email protected]  ß-- old email lol!
Text: 305-766-1375

4 comments

Week 22 & 23 - 88lbs

Jan 06, 2011

Highest Weight 307 Surgery Weight 294 – 11lbs
Week 1 Post-Op 280 – 14lbs
Week 2 Post-Op 274 – 6 lbs  
Week 3 Post-Op 274 - 0 lbs grr!

Week 4 Post-Op 271 – 3 lbs   
Week 5 post-op 270 - 1 lbs
Week 6 post-op 000-0 lbs( TOM) 
Week 7 Post-op 265 - 5lbs
Week 8 Post-op 263 - 2lbs
Week 9 Post-op 261 - 2 lbs
Week 10 Post-op 259 - 2lbs (TOM)
Week 11 Post-op 257 - 2 lbs 
Week 12 Post-op 257 -0 lbs
Week 13 Post-op 257 - 0 lbs
Week 14 Post- Op 253 - 4lbs (TOM)
Week 15 Post-Op 245 - 8 lbs
Week 16 Post-Op 242 -3 lbs
Week 17 Post-Op 238 - 4 lbs (TOM)
Week 18 Post-Op 235 - 3 lbs
Week 19 Post-Op 232 – 3lbs
Week 20 Post-Op 229 – 3lbs
Week 21 Post-Op 227 - 2 lbs (TOM)
Week 22 Post-Op  224 – 3lbs Week 23 Post-op 219 – 5lbs Total -88 lbs 

  Hey OH,                

Hope you all had a Happy New Year! I wish you all continued success this year. I had a great time over the holiday break. Spent a lot of time with my family and sleeping lol. And I must confess I ate EVERYTHING. Sweets, fried food, fast food, bread, rice, cookies, cake, wine, alcohol, chocolate etc…  I didn’t really feel guilty. But now I’m having a really hard time getting back on track. I feel like I have to do a detox program for a few days. Do you guys know of a good one I can try. Or some tips on how to get back on track? It would be very much appreciated.   Thanks <33333 Nat
8 comments

About Me
Hialeah, FL
Location
29.9
BMI
VSG
Surgery
07/28/2010
Surgery Date
May 25, 2010
Member Since

Friends 286

Latest Blog 45

×