Just checking in

I haven't been on much lately. I have been down in the dumps pretty bad here. I have only lost 1 pound since 9/11 and been pretty bummed about it. At the docs advise I upped my calorie intake and I lost that one pound. So I guess I have been basically starving myself. Problem is, I am not hungry. I force myself to eat. I drink all day long and I don't get hungry at all. Is this normal? I ride my bike for 20 min every day on one of the preset excersise patterns. I have gone from a tight 22-24 to a misses size 18 jeans. I just don't feel it coming off. I still see myself as fat as ever when I look in the mirror. I started smoking again and I just don't feel much like doing anything at all.~~~Amy LAP RNY 08-05-03 /-31 pounds

TAKE THAT CIG OUT OF YOUR MOUTH NOW. You can't possibly have gone to all of this--surgery and recovery to kill yourself smoking--okay I am off of my soap box. 31 lbs in 1 1/2 months--when have you ever lost that before. gone from 22/24 to size 18. Be happy and proud of yourself.

AmyLynn, It certainly seems from the profiles I've read that nearly everyone goes through the "post-op blues" within the first few months after surgery. I really think that's what could be happening for you. And you know, you'll read that most everyone will have cycles where their bodies will FIGHT to hold the weight and then let it DROP suddenly after two or three weeks. Get off the scale - don't worry so much about those numbers sweetie, they'll move soon enough. Now is the time to concentrate on establishing those good habits - regular exercise, getting your supplements and vitamins in daily, working on getting all the protein and water your body needs. Concentrate on those things and maybe start a journal with your measurements - because even when you're not losing pounds, you're losing inches. Maybe that will help some. And if the depression doesn't lift, don't be afraid to ask for help. A short stint on an anti-depressant could make a world of difference. We're all here for you too,- we want to help. Take care - YOU CAN DO THIS!!! - Deb W.