TramAnh- I know you have talked about your weight loss before and you had said it was because of a combo of your new acne medication. I hope this question isnt too intruisive but it seems that you might be getting skinnier? By all all means its not a bad thing…just wondering if you have some other type of secret or still do to the medication?

Tramanh:  My weight’s been the same since the last time the weight issue came up. The same or a couple pounds heavier?  I was taking spironolactone for my skin, which is a diuretic, so I lost a lot of water weight, but I think my body adjusted (I’m not nearly as thirsty all the time as I used to be last year), and I’ve also been weaning myself off of it (per my derm’s recommendation).  I started taking only a half dose everyday for the past couple months, and I haven’t taken any in the past month.  Skin hasn’t gone crazy, thank god.

I think a large part is lifestyle change.  I’m generally busier here than I was in Houston, so there’s a lot less downtime (and less snacktime).  Food is healthier here, portions are smaller, and we don’t drink as much as we used to in Houston.  Going out  to drink 3 times a week (sometimes 4 or 5) was the norm back then.  Now it’s usually just once a week, MAYBE 2.  There’s also a lot less drunk late night eating….which I kind of miss.  I don’t even know where there’s a Jack-in-the-Box here, now that I think about it.  

I will say, I’m by no means “fit.”  I haven’t found the time to exercise or yoga in FOREVER.  Probably 8 or 9 months?  This is the longest I’ve ever gone without some sort of physical activity, so I’m really just skinny-fat.  I will also say, this just confirms what Steph and I always tell readers who ask about diet and exercise.  If you want to lose weight, it’s ALL DIET.  I actually STOPPED exercising all together, and the main change in my life has been eating more healthy, eating less, and drinking less.

tram, you mentioned you have flat feet. i’m currently suffering from my flat feet while running and wearing heels. like my arch hurts so bad. do you use any insoles or particular shoes to help alleviate the pain? steph, do you suffer it as well? any suggestions?

Steph: I would be careful to make sure that you’re not damaging your feet long-term when you run and wear heels.  My friend actually found out that the bone under the ball of her foot was DISINTEGRATING and she now has to wear special in-soles and can’t wear any type of sandals, heels, or even most flats. :(

See an orthopedist if it bothers you a lot - he can tell you anything from what insoles you might need to changing your running stride.

You can also try those Dr Scholl foot analysis thing - Ryan has plantar fasciitis and has to wear specific insoles and a boot to bed.  I don’t think I have flat feet - my feet don’t hurt when I run and actually too much arch support is more hurty than helpful.

Tramanh:  If your arches are constantly hurting, you should probably see a doctor in case you cause permanent damage.  But if it’s just occasionally when you wear some shoes, putting in an arch support helps.  When I first started running, and before I got professionally fitted for shoes that were made for people with low arches, I put arch supports in my old running shoes and the difference was like night and day.  My arches and knees instantly stopped hurting after my runs.

They also sell small arch support gel things for your regular shoes and heels that may help.

It’s sort of my “thing” to almost never wear flats, but really, a lot of it is because wearing flats can be more straining on my feet than wearing heels is.  I should probably see a doctor too….I’m actually scared I need bunion surgery (lol gross) forreal and will need to be on crutches/wheelchair for a while.  SO INCONVENIENT.  Terrible, I know.

Hey Steph & Tramanh, I’m not fat but for some reason I have these stretch marks(?) or whatever scarring near my butt area! I just noticed it when I was wearing a bikini to the beach =( I’ve never been fat, (weighing at 100lbs) and 5ft in height. Is it from wearing skinny jeans? =( Do you girls have them too?

Steph: Usually stretch marks happen you gain (or lose) weight quickly and your skin didn’t have time to adjust.  Since you have such a small frame, even if you gain/lose a few pounds, stretch marks can likely occur.

If you’ve been steady for the past few years, unfortunately stretch marks (and cellulite) are genetic.  So if your mom and family members have them, you’re much more likely to have them too (even if you didn’t lose/gain a lot of weight).

There are OTC lotions/treatments for stretch marks, I haven’t used any because I have more cellulite than stretch marks.  If those OTC treatments don’t work, there are treatments your derm/esthetician can provide (like what the Kardashians do) - but those are super expensive.

No, you did not get stretch marks from your skinny jeans.  Maybe you had imprints from the seams of the jeans, but those are temporary.

S, how would you handle it if R gains 30-40 lbs after a few years of marriage? Would you call him out straight up, deal with it, or try and cleverly incorporate healthier living habits when possible?

Steph: Ha, Ryan actually has gained weight since we started dating, but if he gained more weight, I would just encourage the BOTH of us to work out and eat healthier.  Let’s be real, I definitely control what Ryan and I eat when we’re together, so if I’m in control of it, I’ll influence us to eat better and live a healthier lifestyle.  I know when he’s at work or with friends, he can do, eat and drink whatever he wants, but I would definitely be like, “Hey, let’s make sure we try to eat healthier to live a better life.”  Also, Ryan’s not completely unaware, he wants to look/feel good, he wants to be active and make sure his body isn’t falling apart on him.

I wouldn’t bring up the fact that he’s gained weight crassly, that’s just mean…I wouldn’t want him to do that to me.  We joke around a little, but I’m not explicit.

I’m not a big drinker and I hate the way alcohol tastes. What is the best drink to order that masks that gross taste of alcohol? Does such a sweet/yummy drink exist?

Steph: Yes, they’re called shots with chasers, haha jk.

I don’t LOVE the taste of alcohol either, most of my drinks have a hint of alcohol, but it’s not like I’m drinking Grey Goose on the rocks.  Some of my favorites that are tasty:

• Any fruity martinis (Sour Apple, Lemon Drops, etc.)
• Nuts & Berries (this is usually a shot)
• Scooby Snack (this is also usually a shot)
• Vodka & Pineapple (this really cuts the taste of vodka)

how do you tell people that you have depression (I’ve been trying hard to keep it hidden)? I’ve started being interested in this guy but think it would scare him away. I haven’t told my friends as I’ve been holing myself at home more. I’m scared to tell people and how they they will react …but it’s been hard to hide it. I also wanted to keep it quiet to not add to the rumor mill aka the haters. thoughts?

Steph: Depression is a serious matter and it’s not something that anyone should or actually does make fun of.  Sometimes we think that it only fuels other people’s fire to hate on us or to make fun of us, but if people DO do that, then they really have no idea how debilitating and horrifying it can be for those who suffer from depression and those around them.  

I would talk first to your family and close friends - they’re the most supportive, they always have your back and they can guide you into not only getting the help you need, but also coaching you telling other people, if that’s even the correct course to take.

I would simply have maybe 1-2 friends over (or 1-2 family members) and let them know lately you’ve been in a slump and feel like it’s a lot more serious than just the ‘case of the blahs’ - if you recognize that you have depression or you’re feeling incredibly anti-social, they can be there to help.  Do not be afraid to ask for help.  You are not burdening anyone, you are not being pathetic or weak - friends and family are always there to support and help loved ones - don’t feel too proud to ask for that help.

Once you talk to those who are closest to you, you can decide if you should tell the guy you’re seeing.  It’s fair to let him know you have your struggles but are in the process of working on it and addressing it.  If he’s a stand-up guy, he will be there to support you and to help you through this.  If he’s a dick, then he won’t and you shouldn’t be with someone who’s a dick anyway.

Stay strong and believe in yourself - you can tell your close friends/family - that’s what they’re here for and that’s what you would do if the roles were reversed.  Seek help through them and from a professional.  Best of luck.

Stephanie, What’s the best way to lose some lbs so i can look good on my wedding days?

Steph: It depends on how much you want to lose weight and where.  I actually was writing a post this weekend (and just published) about my weight-loss/fitness goals here:

http://hoisinivy.blogspot.com/2012/04/good-in-good-out.html

It’s what I’m doing to get back into shape and though it’s not a quick fix, it’s definitely making ME feel better and more conscious about what I’m eating and what I’m doing.

The bottom line is caloric intake < caloric expenditure.  No matter how much you work out, you’ll need to work on lowering your caloric intake without sacrificing nutrition.  That means eating smarter…which is a drag, I’m sorry, lol.  Eating fiber and protein is the way to stay fuller longer, not sugars and fats, which we burn at a higher rate.  

Do what I started doing: substitute one bad thing for one good thing a day.  I am a fiend for the vending machine.  So instead of going there for candy or chips (or my favorite, corn nuts), I’ll eat a piece of fruit instead of candy, almonds instead of corn nuts, kale chips instead of Doritos.  

As far as workouts are concerned, cardio is great for boosting your metabolism and burning fat.  Doing strength training will help shred the fat that’s on top of your muscle.  Don’t worry about bulking up, you won’t (even with heavy weights).  You can also do yoga and pilates for strength-training that also focuses on elongating the muscles.

Don’t forget to drink water and sleep (proven to help people lose weight faster).

steph, i was reading ur blog about your sweaty underarm prob and i have the same problem!! except mine get super stinky andddd sweaty. what do you recommend?

Steph: There are some at-home things I’ve tried, including:

• Using clinical strength deodorant (like Dove’s)…that helped a little, but didn’t solve my problem.
• Bring deodorant with you when you start sweating…one time I left it in a unisex bathroom & had to ask Ryan’s cousin to grab it on his way out.  Embarrassing.
• Apply baby powder on top of your deodorant once it completely dries - this is supposed to absorb the moisture.

But ultimately, I was going crazy with it, that I just went to my dermatologist and asked for a prescription anti-perspirant.  It’s helped a lot.  I mean, I think I have to apply more than the average person (how embarrassing), but it has prevented me from sweating under my armpits altogether.  Just like one reader pointed out - you have to sweat somewhere, so usually you’ll end up sweating more on your face, chest, feet, etc.  But I’d rather blot my face than my underarms!

The generic version was only $8 copay so it was well-worth it.  It’s been over a month and I still apply it 3-4x a week for maximum results.

Do you take any supplements prior to working out?

Dru- Nope, I don’t take anything. I don’t even stretch before/after running. If I work out a lot, maybe I’ll eat a banana after to prevent cramping, but that’s about it. I guess I could take protein powders and bulk up, but that would mean if I stopped working out, everything would just look bad.

Steph: No I don’t take any proteins or anything like that.  I do take a daily multi-vitamin and cranberry supplements daily.  But I’d do that regardless of working out.

My bf is also one of those extremely annoying (jk) people who can eat whatever they want and indulge in anything and not gain a single pound. I want to be able to enjoy being “foodie” with him, but not turn into a whale in the process.

Steph: Guys have it easy, don’t they?  I think the best way to enjoy eating out with your bf but not gaining 100lbs is to do so in moderation.

When you’re not with your bf (at work, at home), try eating healthier so you can splurge when you’re out with him.  Exercising can also help ward off extra poundage.  Lastly, ask to split his meal with your meal…maybe you order one thing, he orders another and you two split it.  Maybe one is a healthier dish (fish, salad, chicken) and the other is more indulgent (beef, ribs, etc.).  That way you’re not eating an entire dish of ribs, but you still get to enjoy your food too!

Stephanie, I remember you were saying there’s this exercise your mom does for your jaw? can i look it up on youtube somewhere? hehe. I’m a small person but my face is big and i can have a double chins at certain angles :( does the exercise work? thanks!

Steph: My mom swears by these exercises but the crazy part is that I can’t figure out how to explain it via words.  You just kind of have to WATCH it…but don’t even THINK about asking me to do a video tutorial - not gonna happen! 

Essentially, you strain your neck/chin…imagine doing a “EEEE” with this face D= face.  Then with resistance, you open and close your mouth (in a chomping motion).  I think this is supposed to build the muscle under your chin so that it’s tighter and you don’t get a double-chin.  You look like a crazy person doing it, but my mom says it’s the best thing ever.  I only do it when I remember to do it.  And when I’m alone.  In my room.

Ever since I got in a relationship, I’ve gained almost 20lbs. :( My boyfriend begs to differ and says he doesn’t even notice or care, which is such bad reinforcement for my developing habits of eating, drinking and not excercising anymore. Steph, were you a victim of gaining these so called “love” pounds too? if so, how did you stop yourself from going overboard and if not, how did you maintain not doing so? I just feel like 90% of what we do in our relationship is eat/go out to dinner.

Steph: Yes, I am totes a victim of “love lbs,” I’ve gained quite a few pounds over the past few years - I don’t blame it wholly on my relationship, I also blame it on my lack of exercise, my longer work hours, my insatiable appetite, etc.  There are a lot of reasons why I’ve gained weight and while being in a relationship does play a factor, I can’t really blame it entirely on your boyfriend (as much as it’s so much easier that way…and less guilt-ridden).

Even though Ryan and I do go out to eat a lot - I do try to control when we don’t such as breakfasts and lunches (since I’m at work).  I’ll eat a healthy breakfast and lunch, and maybe I can be a little bad for dinner (pastas, burgers, short ribs, you name it!)  I’ll also make time for myself (runs in the morning, gym in the evening, etc.) to counteract my laziness when I’m with Ryan the other nights of the week.

I’ve talked to Ryan about my weight-gain and told him that it bothered me and while he did do the “Whaaat?  I don’t know what you’re talking about…you look beautiful!” I asked him to encourage me to get back into shape and help me out versus being a bad influence.  He’s done an amazing job - he takes care of Dallas when I go straight to the gym after work, he lets me split my meals with him so I can also order dessert. 

There are a lot of healthier choices that you can order when you go out (or like I said, subsidize healthier eating when you’re not out so you can not be “that girl” when you are) and don’t forge to exercise and make time for yourself!

Have you tried any workout videos? If so, which ones and what were the results?

Dru- Nah.

Steph: I’ve used like cardio ones before (zumba), but I don’t like using videos for things like yoga because I’m not familiar with all of the terms/poses so I’m spending more time looking up & trying to get my positioning right versus doing the exercise itself.  

I tried one day of Insanity and almost threw up, so I shipped it back. LOL.  I much rather take IRL classes than have to move all of my furniture, pop in a video, and be motivated to really push myself.  The instructor isn’t there to make sure my form is correct…and isn’t there to make sure I’m not sitting there pretending do my workouts.

if/when you go to sushi places, are there items you usually get?

Dru- Usually at least one piece of tuna and one piece of salmon, just to know the quality. And usually the spider roll, but not always.

Steph: I don’t really like fish.  Actually, I hate fish.  The texture, the smell, the taste.  I KNOW, just revoke my Asian card now.  I usually tell people I’m allergic so they don’t give me the look you’re giving me now.

So typically I get California Rolls, something with shrimp/crab/lobster or udon.

dru, do you shower in the mornings or at nights? I find it strange that people like to shower in the mornings unless you workout and you just shower twice in a day, but that’s gross to sleep on if you only shower in the mornings after a day’s sweat.

Dru- Haha, I shower after work if I get really sweaty during the day or if I’m going out some place nice at night, but for the most part, I’m a morning shower person. Otherwise, I’ll wake up with bed head in the morning and that’s hard to correct unless, well, I shower. Short hair is way more affected by bed head and simply putting some water from the sink in my hair really quick in the morning doesn’t fix it (and hair product is easier to apply after a hot shower). And morning showers wake you up enough to get ready for work. Otherwise, I’d be all groggyface.