Distal vs. Proximal Bypass-- what gives?

I imagine that most of you had a more proximal bypass. I have a 200cm roux limb, which is a very long limbed one. You'd think I would lose faster because of it-- but I don't. I eat 850 calories a day, get in 70g+ of protein, walk and swim, and I have still lost 81 pounds since my surgery date while many of you are blasting past me. I malabsorb more, so I take a ton of vitamins and supplements (25 a day and counting.) It may be that I will have a longer weight loss window (I'm still losing about 9 pounds a month) than y'all, I don't know. What do you think? Am I some kinda freak? Also-- I should have less food tolerances, and dump more-- but I do neither. How 'bout that? -S.

Shari, I don't know if I'm Distal or Proximal. I never think to ask. And I don't think you are a freak! I had surgery on July 3rd and have lost a total of 63 pounds since that time. I lost 25 pounds prior to surgery (insurance requirement****rtainly consider myself to be a slow loser, especially compared to others. I've only lost 13 pounds since mid November. This month, I've only lost 2 pounds so far- But I've lost 22 inches since November and my clothes are getting more and more loose. I consume more calories than you do (around 1000 - 1200 per day) and I don't concentrate on proteins- I was for a while, but it only makes me constipated. So, I've added fresh fruits and veges to my diet. Not a lot, but some... I have started walking in the evenings with my hubby. I actually have a lot of food intolerances and it's not consistent. One day I can eat chicken, the next day I cannot. I do dump. I really have to watch the amount of sugar/sugar alcohols in food. I once dumped really bad on a Pure Protein bar. I think you are doing great. It's just more proof that everyone is different. Do you think you are eating enough? I don't know... Just wondering? You might try changing your routine for a couple of days, then go back to what you are doing. It might help. Abbie

I've gone off and back on a few days-- added fat, etc...no changes on the scale. The doc and nut said if I am not hungry, there's no need to up my intake. I only get "mouth hungry" not stomach hungry. I've increased fat, supplements and water, still lose slowly. I suspect, Abbie, it has to do with our pre-op losses. I've lost 81 since surgery, but 150 this year, y'know?

I think you are right, Shari. I didn't lose as much as you did pre-op, but enough that it effected my post op loss.

Giving up proteins is NOT a good idea, Abbie. Protein is CRUICIAL for muscle building, recovery-- everything you need for fitness. Try Miralax, daily. It's safe and adds fluid to the bowels...finally offered me a little peace. And up the fat in your food a bit. But don't skimp on the protein!

My doctor doesn't recommend eating high protein. It's amazing to me how different the surgeons are; However, I realize how important proteins are and still consume 60 - 70 grams per day. What I added was whole grains, fresh fruit and vegetables, which in turn, upped my calories to an average of 1100 per day and helped keep me more regular.

I'm with Abbie, you aren't a freak and I too am wondering if you are eating enough? I eat about 1000-1100 calories a day too. I upped it to there from 750-900 calories a day in mid-January and broke my 33 day stall. (I lost 12 lbs, but now I'm in another stall, no way am I upping my calories again though If your body is only absorbing, say, 500 of the 850 calories you consume, it probably is throwing a fit and holding on as much as it can. And if you are exercising, your body is probably really fighting you. I would think the more you are bypassed the more calories your body will need so it can absorb enough and be happy enough to let go of the weight. Like someone with a DS, they need to eat 2500-5000 (depending on gender and height) in order for their bodies to be at that happy place to drop the weight. I know not all NUTs are the same, but my NUT told me 1000-1200 is a good range for me to be in this part of the journey. (Just saw her on Wednesday). I'd check with your NUT to see if s/he thinks it might help to up your calories some. I know this is frustrating for you ((HUGS)) Good luck! Andi

My nutritionist refuses to discuss calories, says I am doing fine, and that there's no need to up my intake unless I am physically hungry-- which I am not. I plan to up it to 1000 calories next month, regardless, though--- I've been very low cal for over a year and I worry that it's not good for me.