Question:
Need some advice and support for plateaus and drinking water.

I am at 6 months post-op and have been gaining and losing the same 5-6 pounds for a month and a half, at least. I know in my mind that plateaus are a part of our journey, but I just need some reassurance that this isn't the end for me! I have at least 70 pounds to go and feel like I'm done with the weight loss. Is this a pretty normal time to plateau - at 5-6 months and for so long? What kind of loss can I still expect at what time frame? Also, I've been concerned because I do NOT get anywhere near enough water in. I used to drink over a gallon of water daily pre-op. I'm lucky if I can get 24 ounces in - which is horrible! I just hate water now! I've found Minute Maid light lemonade, which only has 5 calories and is not carbonated. It is the only liquid I enjoy...am I okay if I drink alot of this instead of water? I've tried everything else - crystal lite, diet snapple, etc. I was finding myself drinking 1 diet Pepsi a day, but cut this out because I just have a feeling carbonation isn't good...am I right? Any and all advice and support is so appreciated. Open RNY 3/20/03 -85 pounds.    — vittycat (posted on September 22, 2003)

September 22, 2003
Watch the sodium levels in the diet beverages. This is what causes weight gain for me. Soda = Sodium in most cases. Otherwise, diet and low-cal drinks are fine. You NEED the liquids so you can flush out the fat. Yes, plateaus are normal any time, however, you should look at your diet to make sure the plateau is not caused by your diet. Are you eating properly in small portions? Staying away from excessive carbs? Going back on the protein train may break your plateau. Best regards -
   — M B.

September 22, 2003
Krista, everyone loses differently. You may want to go to the library on this site and check out plateaus to see that you are not alone. Water is an essential part of weight loss so if you are not getting in enough it may be stalling your weight loss. There are flavored waters out there-not carbonated, of course, you may want to try. You can also try de-caffeinated teas and any other liquid that has no calories, and no carbonation. I have a hard time getting in all my water too so I carry around a water bottle religiously. I find if its in my hand, I tend to sip all day and that way get it all in. As for the plateau, have you looked to see if you are doing everything right-regular exercise, no drinking with or right after meals, eating small frequent meals, lo carbs/sugar? you may be doing everything right and still on a plateau, though. Hang in there-your not done losing yet, you have a good year left.
   — Cindy R.

September 22, 2003
heya hun..platues are very normal.. but ya gotta get in enough fluids..or your body will retain them.. other ideas for fluids.. stuff i drink.. tea, black, green, herbal(reg and decaff), coffee(decaff), broths(low sodium), soy milk comes in several flavors, i try for the no sugar added, or sugar free(some drink milk..but im lactose intolerant now..), chai lattes..are sooo good.., protien drinks, also.. koolaid..sweeten it to taste with sugar free stuff by the glass..as ya may want it sweeter or less each time..as far as carbonation..not sure on the good vs bad for ya..it just makes me sick..so i only take a sip here and there..i find i drink more..if i have something with me constantly and its cold..or hot..dependin on what it is..lol..also ..sf cocoa, some do cib.., my brain cant think of anything else right now..but feel free to email me if ya wanna chat..lol..good luck to ya..huggles n bb..
   — johanna F.