Plateau blues

I am so totally depressed I don't even want to get up in the morning and on the scale. I lost fifty pounds in my first two months and then hit the wall! I have not lost one ounce since June 25! What can I do? Some ideas I have read on the Internet include increased exercise, more water, different kinds of exercise, and just sticking to it. What has worked for some of you? How long did your plateau last? Did it magically just go away or what? I really need your help in support as I can't believe I went through all of this for 50 pounds. How can I start losing again? Should I cut my food way down or fast? Up my protein? I just don't have a clue. Thanks.

Though I have no personal experience with plateaus (only because I'm not weighing), everyone in my support group says up protien, up water, up exercise to get your self through a plateau. As far as I understand, if you fast, your body will go into starvation mode and you won't eat. You should be getting a minimum of 800 cal a day...1000 would be better. This has to be so frustrating for you. I'm sure you will get past it though! Good luck Rachel

Nancy, Go to the February board (feb 2004) and check the message from Danluvsme2 from 7/22/04. This girl was on plateau for some time and she finally broke it. You can try what she recommends. Best luck Ira

I just wanted to say that I talked to Joanne last wk & while she broke the plateau & lost 4lbs she hasn't lost anymore since she started it !!!! We had the same Doc do the surgery & she is seeing him on 8-4-04 to see why she can handle ALL that liquid... She has had other medical problems HOPEFULLY it will clear up & her wt loss will get goin again... Deb

Boy, I understand how you feel. I have had 3 plateaus in the last 3 months. I stayed at -25 for almost 4 weeks.,then at -35 for 2 weeks and now I have been stuck at -50-54 for almost 2 weeks. During the first 2 plateaus,I increased liquids and protein,but that has not helped this time. I took comfort in the statement a read that during plateaus, yourbody is reconfiguring itself to the smaller size. I did find this to be true the first few times,but haven't noticed it this time. I have increased my exercising and am wondering if I am gsaining muscle weight that is diguising fat loss. Keep doing what you'redoing,keep adaily log of your food/drink intake and jsut go shopping and try on clothes. I went yesterday and was so excited.I went from a size 24 swimsuit last summer to a 16. I'm leaving for the beach this weekend and I'm not afraid to be seen! Good Luck Maureen 264/209/110

Hi Nancy, I find myself going through the same exact thing right now. I know how depressing it is. I keep trying to get out of it, but nothing seems to be working. What helps me is to just remember where I came from and where I am now. It's a heck of a lot better. Keep smiling, and the weight will surely start to drop again. Terri

Thanks for the response. I see you have the lap band WLS. How has your progress been so far. When did you hit the plateau? I am now seeing ads on tv about postmenopausal women having a very difficult time losing weight. So that just ads to my dismay. However, today is a new day. I'm on my way to Curves, then trying to cut carbs down to 30g or less, increase water (fluid) intake and see how the week goes. Trying to change my attitude to a more positive one and hope I can break this ugly cycle. It is now about five weeks and counting with NO LOSS. This just can't be right. Will keep you posted.