Two Guys Lose Weight: Nutrisystem beats Fatburger in ultimate showdown

The following is a blog documenting two Los Angeles Times editors’ attempts to lose weight. It all began on Jan. 10.

Temptation. Schmemptation. Sure, I’m feeling a little cocky. The events over the last two days have left me feeling tough. Mark Wahlberg in “Invincible” tough.

That doesn’t mean I’m going to wear a mesh tank top to work or anything. At least not today. But come casual Friday, watch out.

Why the feelings of invincibility? Just like Wahlberg’s character I overcame terrific odds to win an epic battle. He only made the roster for the Philadelphia Eagles. I overcame two (count ‘em Mark) TWO foes.

The first battle occurred when I entered a colleague’s office. The smell was unmistakable. KFC. Original recipe. When it comes to fried chicken, there is no substitute. Gimme a bucket and a gallon of gravy. Ten minutes later I’m in a food-induced coma.

I’ll admit it. I was salivating. But did not falter. Further, I didn’t return to his office to lick the floor or rummage through his garbage can for scraps. That might have been awkward.

Having impressed myself, I upped the ante Wednesday evening. What could I accomplish? How far could I go? On the way home from work, I drive by hallowed ground. A holy shrine. A place so sacred, I would stop -- in the past -- many times per week to worship. Fatburger. The home of the monstrous 24 oz. XXXL burger.

I pulled into a parking space (no drama with blow up dolls this time) and got out. Time to test my strength. So I walked in just to look around and ask for change. I just wanted to smell the greatness of the almighty Fatburger. A burger so legendary that Ice Cube immortalized the meal in not one, but two of his songs. Maybe there was a tinge of temptation. But I walked out unscathed. Victorious. And feeling even more bulletproof.

Went home and had the Nutrisystem Cheese and Spinach Ravioli with Meat Sauce, a gigantic salad and an ice cream sandwich (you actually get ice cream with Nutrisystem). And didn’t feel hungry.

Movie material? It’s heading in that direction. But I’d settle for an ABC Afterschool Special.

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