Diet & Fitness 

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Diary of a dieter - week 7

Six weeks ago, shopping was a horrible experience for Rachel Roberts. This week she rediscovers how much fun it can be

I was forced to go clothes shopping this week. I had no choice, as some of my trousers and tops are just too big. HOORAY!

It's weird though, because I'm now starting to see real results and I'm a bit freaked out. Don't get me wrong, I'm really chuffed, but looking at my too-big clothes is strange because that's the old me. The woman that was nearly a stone heavier just six weeks ago. I'm shrinking, getting smaller and it's an odd feeling.

Even though the scales tell me I'm thinner, I still automatically grab size 16 in everything when shopping. I can now get into size 14 in most things, which is amazing. I think it's going to take time for my head to catch up with what's been going on with my body.

The whole shopping experience is going to take a while to adjust to as well. Before, when faced with the terrifying prospect of a communal changing room, I would rather have stuck hot pins in my eyes than bare my body. Now, while not exactly flaunting my body, I am comfortable enough to stand in bra and pants while trying things on. I feel a real sense of freedom because I'm not struggling to try clothes on while attempting to keep as much of my body covered as possible.

I'm also more comfortable in front of the mirror. This week I actually stood and had a proper look at myself. I used to quickly glance then look away because I was unhappy and embarrassed by what I saw.

After trying on a serious amount of clothes, I eventually bought a pair of quite slim-fitting trousers. A few weeks ago I would have been way too self-conscious to wear them. I also bought a bright pink strapless top. I think that, subconsciously, I probably bought it because it shows off my shoulders. They're the part of my body which has re-emerged most dramatically over the last few weeks and was probably my favourite part before I gained weight. It's like I want to show off to the world: a definite sign my confidence is returning.

Someone at work also pointed out that I'm walking a lot taller, and not slumped over anymore. It's a great feeling.

But enough of all this vanity. I have lost another pound this week and I can honestly say that I feel physically better, healthier and energised - my gym visits are paying off. It's no wonder really. At yesterday's slimming class, my leader Liz weighed out a stone in shopping bags, and gave them to me to hold. I was shocked at just how heavy they were.

To think that I was carrying that extra baggage around until seven weeks ago. It's no wonder I feel so much better.

Original start weight: 13st 7lbs
End week one weight: 13st 2½lbs
End week two weight: 13st 3½lbs
End week three weight: 12st 11½lb
End week four weight: 12st 11lb
End week five weight: 12st 10lb
End week six weight: 12st 9lb
End week seven weight: 12st 7½lb

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