“I … don’t want a wholesome smoothie for breakfast … don’t want to measure the cream in my coffee … I’m sick of it… I want to go face-first into a bathtub full of Captain Crunch with whole milk, just soak and wolf and slurp.” —Julie “JuJu” G. Ridl, from her blog, Skinny Daily Post.
Welcome to the world of diet bloggers, where the daily triumphs and downfalls of dieting are shared via Internet journals. Some, like Ridl’s, get thousands of visitors a month—readers who post their own comments and essentially create a weight-loss support group online.
Ridl, a 45-year-old design consultant in Holland, Michigan, lost 100 pounds in 2001, and says writing about her daily struggle to maintain the weight loss has kept her sharply focused, while at the same time inspiring regular readers. She gets about 40,000 hits to her site per month.
“The act of writing helped me commit,” Ridl says. “It cuts a little path in my brain, and keeps me on that path. And the voluminous support from readers has kept me on track, too.”
Readers also apparently win, posting responses to Ridl’s blog that say they’re motivated by her online sharing to meet their own weight-loss goals. “I have lost about 45 pounds, but have been hovering around the same weight for more than 6 months,” a reader named “Jess” wrote. “It is slow going for me, but it is worth it to hang in there. The Skinny Daily Post has been an incredible source of inspiration and support. Hugs to you!”
These dieting Web logs can help people organize their own support system, “which could be very valuable and cost a lot less than medical advice or diet organizations,” says Marion Nestle, PhD, MPH, professor at New York University’s Department of Nutrition, Food Studies, and Public Health.
There’s no official count of dieting blogs specifically, but 70,000 new blogs are created every day, with about 29,100 blog updates an hour, according to Technorati.com, a site that tracks more than 20 million blogs.
Naturally, a big topic on most diet blogs is food. On Skinny Daily, Ridl and two other bloggers who share her site analyze new recipes for carb and fat content, pore over nutritional guidelines when they come out, discuss new food movements (lately, organic), and share healthy snack ideas. “Would you believe frozen peas are actually tasty?” Ridl says.
Other entertaining and inspiring diet blogs are Drop the Fork, Skinny Kat and The Better Body Blog. Some focus on advice, while others are of the personal rant variety. To find and browse other diet blogs, log on to Technorati.com. In the Search window, enter keywords like “weight loss,” “diet,” or “nutrition,” and links to all related, recent (in the last few hours) blog posts will show up.
Nestle cautions, though, that readers should apply critical thinking: If advice you read in a blog sounds unhealthy, ignore it, she says. For nutrition advice, check out Eatright.org—the American Dietetic Association’s Web site—and find a registered dietitian in your area.
Want to start your own blog?
More software companies are making it as simple as possible with downloadable software or via a Web page. One of the easiest is Blogger.com, which hosts blogs for free.
By Suz Redfearn
Comments (66)
I have been working out for 2 months now, kinds watching what I eat and I am gaining.
What is up?
The internet is a great tool for dieters. My blog http://healthhabits.wordpress.com , provides advice from my 19+ years helping myself and others get in shape, but the sites that link dieters going through their own day to day struggles are invaluable. People need an outlet. What do you think weightwatchers is. A community of people going through the same miserable struggle who can meet and discuss their experiences. The internet has changed this from a service that you had to pay for to a free experience.
thanks for the great article.
check out for more info. on Suddenly Slim Diet
I lost 20lb since working with SobobaMedspa. They have great HCG shot programs that works. You can find them at sobobamedspa.com
I have the same problem Fausta. I have not been able to lose the weight. I have been reading blogs and I found this women health product review and I was wondering if any one has heard of this http://www.fitmomsinmotion.com I have a problem sticking to diets and long exercise programs. Im wondering if this is the ticket.
Miranda,
What do you get for your $40? Their top-secret plan for losing weight?
You know what you have to do – It’s the doing it that’s HARD.
Here is the plan that I have used for 19+ years with my clients – for free – http://healthhabits.wordpress.com/2008/06/04/5-steps-to-a-healthy-fat-melting-meal-plan/
My site is new, but I am adding more workout info all the time.
Here is an article on Mindless Eating – one of the biggest causes of weight gain – http://healthhabits.wordpress.com/2008/05/13/how-to-beat-emotional-eating/
There are lots of free resources out there to help you lose weight. Don’t pay for a miracle program based only on their say-so
Diets are difficult but walking is not. That is why I use a treadmill desk. I walk all day at work and have lost 26 lbs in just 4 months. Yea! There are a few products out there but the one I like the best is the TrekDesk, you can read about it at http://www.trekdesk.com. The best thing about a treadmill desk is it makes exercise automatic. Just go to work like you do everyday and four months later, voila!
Judy,
Did your employer pay for the desk or are you self employed?
What kind of speed do you walk at while you are working?
How much did your trekdesk cost?
One of the best websites is http://www.thedailyplate.com – it helps you track foods, exercise, carbs, protein, water, sodium, fiber, sugars, sodium, fat and fiber!
Oh, sorry -also it’s FREE!
Blogging is a great way to lose weight. That is why I encourage you to visit my blog at http://shackmanthehealer.blogspot.com/ . Here you will find new realistic ways to lose weight that fit your lifestyle.
I found a website that none of you will want to miss. It is the end to all diets….. written just for you…. learn how you can FIANLLY find the diet that is just right for your body type. It is amazing! Check it out…….
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5 years ago i weigh about 120lbs then i got myself into a strict diet plan wherein theres no meat, no sodas, no coffee, no sweets. I only ate fish, crackers, wheat bread, veggies, fruits and lots of water. then i dropped to 103 lbs after 3 years.
Recently, it seems im gaining the weight back..im now 114 and it scares me….
First off for Fausta if you just started working out and have never done so before what you are experiencing is muscle gain. Don’t panic that is a great thing, if you have more muscle you will burn more calories.
Great blog there Dr. like you I have over 17 years experience with working out and trying to help others. I say trying because more often than not most people will not listen to what you have to say and keep doing the exact same thing over and over. But I still keep trying, I figure if I can get just one to listen then I have done something good.
Losing weight doesn’t have to be hard, it is about choices. If you choose to eat crap then you will look like crap, if you make the choice (that only you can make) to eat healthy and exercise then you will look and feel great. We all have a brain, we all have the choice to do, eat, and look exactly the way we want.
Check out my blog for more helpful tips on losing weight and exercise. It’s new but will get better.
Nice bog you have here. I pretty much lurk the internet when I’m bored and read all I can about the organic lifestyle, but I really liked you view on things. I’ll bookmark the site and subscribe to the feed!
just be sure to get out and exercise on a regular basis. sometimes the blogosphere can suck you under for hours and hours – i know from experience :D
jack @ Akavar
Losing weight is all about dedication. It is really hard to give up some of your favorite foods in order to do so. I personally like to splurge every once in a while but who doesn’t? I recently came across this diet plan that allows you to eat some of your favorite foods and still lose weight. The idea here is that there are certain types of fat that promote leanness and the burning of fat that would normally be stored. Anyway, check out this review for more info:
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I am 48 years old and have always been on a diet, I think. I have always tried to watch what I eat exercise when I can. I now weight 146 pounds and I am 5′2″ so I am not fat but at one time I weight 132 and still felt like I need to lose. I t is hard you give up that candy bar and still carry around those extra pounds. I have been eating a lot of diet bars as a snack( because I am a big on snacks ) and it has helped. So good luck to everyone out there, i have been there.P.S. Have been buying my snack bars here they are cheaper. http://cookinguprecipes.com/health-diet/Weight-Management/Foods-Bars-and-Snacks
I am 48 years old and have always been on a diet, I think. I have always tried to watch what I eat exercise when I can. I now weight 146 pounds and I am 5′2″ so I am not fat but at one time I weight 132 and still felt like I need to lose. I t is hard you give up that candy bar and still carry around those extra pounds. I have been eating a lot of diet bars as a snack( because I am a big on snacks ) and it has helped. So good luck to everyone out there, i have been there.P.S. Have been buying my snack bars here they are cheaper. http://cookinguprecipes.com/healt-diet
I am 48 years old and have always been on a diet, I think. I have always tried to watch what I eat exercise when I can. I now weight 146 pounds and I am 5′2″ so I am not fat but at one time I weight 132 and still felt like I need to lose. I t is hard you give up that candy bar and still carry around those extra pounds. I have been eating a lot of diet bars as a snack( because I am a big on snacks ) and it has helped. So good luck to everyone out there, i have been there.P.S. Have been buying my snack bars here they are cheaper.
http://cookinguprecipes.com/health-diet/Weight-Management/Foods-Bars-and-Snack
Please see this video and share it with friends, very important (cut and paste)
I have put together some information that I hope will help others.
Thanks
Sorry I didn’t put the link:
http:loseweightasap.blogspot.com
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I also used to find it hard to lose weight until i found this interesting Blog: http://losingweightreview.blogspot.com
i took this persons advice and it really worked out for me.
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Thanks for an honest site that doesnt pretend weight loss is easy.Its not just the top diet pills or any other cheats.Its all about combining various different techniques and methods including diet and exercise among other things.Well done on a great site that will help many people to lose weight.
The net is a great tool for losing weight or getting fit. I started a body building site and since i started blogging not only do i look better then ever but im learning much more. Everything from weight lifting tips to catabolic foods that help burn fat while eating.
Hi!
My name is Jessika!
I have started back on my diet today. I would like to lose 40 pounds this year. Good luck to all
http://www.flush-pounds-away.com
I am trying to loose a 100 pounds by the end of the year. I am getrting married next year. I just need a great website where i can blogg and have helpful information.
I have been trying to lose weight for years and always seemed to fail, I then tried Phentramin D and lost a total of 74 pounds in six months. I have been able to keep it off a year now. http://www.SlimEffects.com
add more plants and put out food for them
Yeah,I agree on this! I have been blog hopping for awhile for inspiration. I have learned so much,and it keeps me motivated :) I also take modelherbs.com to help me detox. Some days I’m just not motivated or have time to diet, and model herbs helps me lose weight quickly and naturally!
I think you have something here. Writing your goals and about your progress holds you accountable to your readers. I have recently written an article for overweight people and think it would be very informative for your visitors. It’s where overweight people should go to get the best deal on life insurance, found here: http://www.insuranceblogbychris.com/life-insurance-for-overweight-people
I was wondering if you would consider linking to my article, or just leave this comment up. Thank you for your consideration.
Chris Huntley
Term Insurance United States
I have struggled with my weight for years and I finally had had enough. I was 300lbs and diabetic with no where to turn. I came across an ad about this woman who was a nutritionist and personal trainer. She is a godsend and has changed my life forever. I have lost 120lbs so far and I have a new life!! Please check her site out if you want to lose weight for good.
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Hi !!!! ^_^
I am Piter Kokoniz. oOnly want to tell, that I’v found your blog very interesting
And want to ask you: is this blog your hobby?
Sorry for my bad english:)
Thank you:)
Piter.
Roxana! http://www.furtherfield.org/njenkins/dirge/archives/000026.html
can you At the lowest level, all computers are programmed with strings of ones and zeroes
http://steppingoffthescale.blogspot.com/
I think blogging really helps to keep motivated..and being held accountable
I think internet really helps us to loose weight there are tons of information regarding weight lose.
EFT Proves that it helps on weight lose. EFT means Emotional Freedom Techniques. You can see the techniques here …
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I just started a health blog and I have the belief that health blogs are helpful and an inexpense way to finding health and happiness. My blog is http://nutritionalhealth.blogspot.com
Blogging about your daily struggles and success really keeps you motivated since you always put everything into perspective especially in losing weight. You always think about whatever needs to be done. It is also beneficial for others as well in a sense that they’re inspired and feel that they’re not alone.
Thats a really interesting article. I love to eat fatty foods and have trouble losing weight, but I recently found a program that helped me shed some pounds — and I get to eat what I want!
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Hi
I finally know how it feels to walk on the beach, in a bikini. it feels GREAT! To be honest for years I wouldn’t even go on a beach.
Unless I was wearing a jump suit!
I hated being overweight, but also hated the fact I couldn’t just be me and not have to worry about it.
We are so judged on our appearance, and it sucks.
I’ve written a blog about me journey. Have a look: http://www.losemyweight.org
I love hearing success stories of people losing weight. Has anyone ever tried Acai to lose weight.
This is an informative article, with interesting blogs of individuals and websites to encourage them to loose weight. There are lots of people wanted to shed pounds of calories out of their system. Reading this article tells me that they can achieve it, if they are strong willed to do so.
i found this website to be very good for flattening your stomach… http://d770dhy5xopxd0dlk7m5k3uj52.hop.clickbank.net/?tid=122987
try going to losebodyfat.webs.com
lost 8 pounds in 2 weeks really works
Great post! I’ll subscribe right now wth my feedreader software!
Great blog with good information. Here is some other weight loss advice:
http://loseweightbybuildingmuscle.blogspot.com
This is a nice blog, thanks for sharing. If you are searching for how to lose 50 pounds fast this site might have answer
http://weightlossforbeginner.blogspot.com
Hey, just what I needed. I’ve been hovering over my goal weight for the past month without losing a pound. Then I dropped 5 pounds by getting more encouragement from your site.
Thanks for being you.
I have been on a diet forever and in the past 4 yrs I managed to lose 75lbs and kept it off until April of 2009.When my little brother died,I fell off the wagon it was the most tragic thing I have ever went through in my life. Resulting in my fall off the wagon my health has gotten worst. So I decided a week ago it was time to live and lose the weight again. If you would like to walk with me while I go through my recovery my blog is http://www.whatisyourjoyjuice.blogspot.com
It is called Joy Juice because I know now my brother wants me to life and keep going.
Great site…keep up the good work.
Glad I found this site. True that there are so many ways to loose weight but there is a common baseline for success. Exercise at least 30 min. /day; eat fruits, vegetables and other nutritional foods – three small meals plus two snacks/day to keep your blood sugar stable, watch the amount of calories; get at least 7 hours of sleep every night; drink at least 8 glasses of water daily; detoxify your body of all the toxins we absorb from the food chain and our environment. This is the basis of loosing weight but what is usually not taken into consideration is the quality and type of nutrients taken. I have found this to make a huge difference because with calorie depravation, there’s a significant distinction between McDonald’s calories and the calories from a nutritional source. The best proven resource I have found for quality nutrients and toxic cleansing all in one products is Isagenix. I have people loosing 20, 40, over 100 pounds using this nutritional cleanse system. I highly recommend it to all my clients. I will be glad to help anyone further. Contact me at fsamudio@att.net.
Hey good stuff…keep up the good work! :)
This blog rocks! I gotta say, that I read a lot of blogs on a daily basis and for the most part, people lack substance but, I just wanted to make a quick comment to say I’m glad I found your blog. Thanks,
A definite great read…
- Bill Bartmann
These blogs are a great resource . Thanks a bunch for sharing.
I am just wondering what in peoples heads makes sticking to things like workout programs and diets so hard, I am not trying to be a jerk, I just want some simple HONEST feedback on this matter….I am currently working to jobs and starting a business online, but I can also make it to the gym six days a week and keep a well balanced nutritious diet. Please help me as I am a little lost to what the issues are for some. Again I am not trying to be ajerk, or judge anyone, I just want to help and want to hear the issues. Try little things, cook your lunches on a sunday afternoon for the week, tupperwear them, keep them to high protein foods, especially if you are at a desk all day, take walks around your building during lunch, when food shopping try to stay to the outside lines of the market, these areas are usually filled with the proteins, fruits vegetable, dairy, just when you get to the dairy section try to grab the fat free milk or the low fat cheeses. There are many many ways to drop weight, some serious analysis of yourself and your diet just needs to be in order. BE TRUE TO YOURSELF THE ONLY ONE YOUR HURTING IS YOU. I am not saying get super thin, but extra weight poses just as many issues with your physical as it does on your mental, and I truly want to do my part in helping to make everyone feel better about themselves, especially in this superficial, “reality tv” world we are living in today. Push and work hard and it will pay off, thanks for the opportunity to post. also, check out my website and feel free to give me input. http://www.cravethefitness.com/
It’s a great help for those who write blogs about their weight loss. It’s very motivating and inspiring at the same time. It gives readers ideas on ways how to lose weight. Some say, it’s easy to lose weight and I agree to them. If you absorb the thought of being slim and healthy do it right now and don’t waste time. It feels good to look at your best all the time.
Thanks for sharing the great information.
The best way to lose weight fast is to eat healthy food and exercise regulary
Healthy eating is popular word in our society. Health food is varies from person to person, Overweight peoples health eating is not the same for less weight people. But people must be care before taking healthy food according to their present health condition.
Fast Weight Lose – Your Weight Loss Advocate Online
A good diet plan should not be restrictive. Losing weight is not about deprivation – rather it is about enjoying the foods you like in moderation and loading up your body with good nutrition. When it comes to fat loss, NUTRITION is king.
http://www.heightweightchart.org