Question:
I am 18 months out and at a stand still weight wise...what am I supposed to be eating

How many calories and what am I supposed to be eating?    — Shannon M. (posted on January 3, 2008)

January 3, 2008
My surgeon said to expect a weight loss from RNY surgery for about 18 months, then possibly gain a few pounds and settle at that weight. Seldom do people reach their "ideal weight", and normally end up with weighing about 15-20 % above their ideal weight.
   — Dave Chambers

January 3, 2008
The other poster was right, most morbidly obese patients will never get to their "chart weight". One reason is because our bones are denser and heavier because of carrying lots of weight all those years. And I also got down to 152, then up to 158 and stayed. I think your body gets to it's low, then you will gain a few pounds back. My husband did the same thing also.
   — GAYLE CARMACK-LYONS

January 4, 2008
You didn't mention what tpe of surgery. If you had an RNY bypass, the other responses are absolutely correct. Generally you have a window of time before your body adjusts to the surgery. After that, weight loss is the old fashioned way. If you have a band, you may need another adjustment. Bands can be adjusted at any time, so there is no 18 month window. As for what you should be eating. You should be eating high protein, low carbs. And of course, protein and vitamin supplements. Each doctor has his/her own follow up plan, so I don't know how many calories your doctor wants you to eat. My surgeon recommends 800 calories from food and additional calories from your protein supplements. Hope this helps some.
   — VickiStevens

January 4, 2008
Calories are one issue. EXERCISE is another! Are you doing enough virgorous exercise to burn up some of the extra weight? Also, I agree with others' comments above. 'Extra' weight may not be bad weight if it is in the form of bone and/or muscle. Also, even though your weight remains constant, your measurements could be getting less. This happens when you exercise regularly and 'convert fat into muscle'.
   — [Deactivated Member]