I don't know what my problem is!

I have joined a gym, I work out 5 days per week! I do one hour of cardio 5 days, and 2 days of weights. I eat a balanced diet to include all the food groups and I even have a protein shake or two per day. In 6 weeks, I have not lost one stupid pound or one stupid inch! I am 6 years out from RNY with Dr. Patterson and I started out over 400lbs. I am under 300lbs but no where near goal. Any suggestions? I'm at a loss right now! I don't know what else to do!!!!!! Jennifer in Oregon

You say you're eating a balanced diet.  Have you tired journaling your food intake and exercise?  Try www.thedailyplate.com or www.fitday.com or a similar site.  Look at how many calories, protein and carbs you're consuming.  Perhaps that will help you see what you need to change. Michele

Jennifer, Michele gave you a really good idea....I think you will be quite amazed what you really eat when you begin journaling. I know I was quite amazed at how much less I actually eat...but how much fat and carbs I was eating, although balanced yes.  It also amazed me how many fat and calories are in food I eat out...I truly had no idea how bad it is eating out...No wonder I can barely eat a few bites out and at home I can finish a small plateful of my own food.   Here are some other helpful sites with calculators that show what you should be consuming at your height age weight etc...There are a few different calculators to give you a general idea where to start for your specific body. Harris Benedict Equation or if that doesn't work try the same site below ( my aol is a pain sometimes) http://www.bmi-calculator.net/bmr-calculator/harris-benedict -equation/ Good luck!

I recently put on about 4 pounds I'm trying to shake off, and even that little bit is frustrating. I walked 10 miles yesterday - aren't you supposed to walk 7 miles and lose a pound? Well, I didn't. I've lost maybe half a pound in the last week. Anyway, whenever I gain a little I log my food on sparkpeople.com, and I was surprised at my calories. I was taking in nearly 1000 calories a day from snacks!!! It really does help you recognize your problem to track your food. If you don't find that food or lack of exercise is your problem (and it sounds like you're exercising plenty), I wonder if there could be a medical problem, like maybe your thyroid? I would sure get a checkup and see if a doctor can help you. With all that working out you're doing, you deserve some results.

I have used a food journal, but have not recently. Maybe I should start again? I should note that we don't eat out, I don't like most restaurant food and with three kids, it's no fun anyway. I make pretty much everything we eat, our bread (whole grain, organic), lots of veggies, etc. I will take the advice of journaling again. thanks!!!