Calories, exercise and weight loss

Hi! I generally lurk here and read all of the great advice and share in your struggles. I am 2 1/2 years post RNY. I had the 15-20 pound weight gain the past 8 months but 4 weeks ago I decided enough was enough and I needed to get back on program. I have been doing at least 40 minutes of cardio (running) 4 times a week and weight training 3 times a week for the last 3 weeks. I am eating between 1300-1450 calories a day and getting in all of my protein. I am back to a good place in my mind with the eating. It's scary because I know it all could change in an instant but right now...things are okay. Here's the problem. I initially lost 4 pounds that first week but since then I have either stayed the same or actually have gone up a pound. It is very discouraging because I feel like I am doing everything right but I'm not seeing results on the scale (I know..the evil scale). Does anyone have any suggestions? I sometimes wonder if I am eating enough calories but I don't want to gain anymore weight. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Mary

Hi Mary. I was wondering if your calories was a little low too. I work out 5x's per week and I generally take in around 1800cal to maintain or 1600cal if I'm trying to drop a few pounds. It so hard to say b/c everyone is different and what works well for one doesn't work at all for someone else. Also, could you be gaining muscle from adding in the weight training? If so, that's good b/c your body will naturally burn more calories on its own. Are you getting in enough protein and carbs to fuel your body for your workouts? Tracy B 328/150's 5'9"

Mary try upping your calories maybe as exercising burns quite a bit...Well I would try that I should say ,for one week only and see what happens.. Also Water water water all day ... I am doing the weights as the other too ,, It takes awhile as we wont lose as quickly now sad to say. Shirley

I'm not reallly a calorie counter, but I was going to suggest just waiting it out - if you know you're making smart food choices, and obviously exercising, sometimes I think it just takes time for the numbers to show on the scale. And you should be so proud that you took the bull by the horns and got back on track!

Mary, remember muscle weighs more than fat. If you can tell in your clothes then that is a good sign. Don't be discouraged. I would say make sure you are getting in the proper amount of protein with your calories and drink the required amount of fluid as well and I bet you see the results. Good luck Rita

I just want to thank everyone for their ideas. I know that I am getting enough water and protein. I guess I just should be patient and maybe add a few extra calories. Thanks again!! Mary