Has my metabolism been resurrected?
So, I've been trying my best to be patient with my average of 2 lbs. per week weight loss since surgery ... really, I had come to accept it quite well.
I have literally been exercising my backside off since surgery. Biking, treadmilling, and doing exercise dvds in my living room and strength training with light weights and multiple repetitions. I knew, at 52 and ovaries that had given up the ghost long ago, that I was in for a *mature* weight loss. I learned that I MUST get at least 850 healthy calories per day, or I stall. OK, I thought I understood my situation and was geared up for the journey.
However, much to my surprise, I think my metabolism may have finally been resurrected from its hibernation! I think I've exercised it back into existence....much to my surprise and joy! I've checked to make sure I haven't accidentally lopped off a hand or foot, because I've lost 7 lbs. in the past 10 days! I'm STUNNED and excited. This may be temporary, but I'm just thankful for the 7 lb. drop no matter if the next 63 lbs. are at a much slower rate. I just want to give everyone else hope that *commitments to healthy diet and LOTS of exercise really will work* ... even if you're past 50 years old! : ) Leslie Sansone (on DVD) is my new virtual best friend and hubby and I are getting up very early and biking at 7 AM so we don't melt or have heat stroke while outside. We look forward to daily exercise! This is HUGE because I always dreaded any activity before.
So, even when the scales stall, or move so very slowly, it is possible to crank up the metabolism with exercise, healthy diet, and muscle building. Our surgeons, dieticians and PTs really do know what they are talking about!!! : ) When my surgeon said exercising 60 minutes a day to maintain and 90 minutes a day to lose, she meant it ... and evidently the NIH (National Institute of Health) understands how this weight loss thing works, too!
So, don't lose heart. We may have to work a little harder for our weight loss and be a bit more patient, as mature adults, but .. WE can do it, too!
Now, crank up the good music, pop in your exercise DVD, and walk away those pounds with Leslie and me!!! : )
I'm a 52.5 yr. old female with chronic illness ... exercising and riding a bike daily! : )
on 7/25/08 12:38 am
Shelly I was just saying on the bandster grad board that I have hit my "wall" my limit that I can lose without consistent exercise. Lesli is my new friend too-and I just made the committent last night that I would do the one mile no matter what, every day.
So, she's going into the backpack for a ride to Dallas. Thanks for starting the group-you are the bestest!
I suffer from perfection syndrome-I used to be very fit, so a one mile walk doesn't seem like much-but I bet it makes a huge difference if done consistently.
Shelly, I am so happy for you! You give me hope that my metabolism will get in high gear. I will say I am losing again- slowly but still losing! Maybe we mature folks have hope yet!
Have a great weekend!
Denise
40 pounds lost pre-op
"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, It's about learning to dance in the rain. " 
