Question:
What did I do wrong?

I had my surgery on 7-08-01 and weighed 263. Here it is almost 2 years later and I weigh 170. I realize that is almost a 100 lb. loss, but I was expecting a bit more. I eat mostly protien, but have been known to snack. I can eat sugary foods and have caught myself eating too many, but that is the exception rather than the rule. I walk up to 2 miles a day and still the weight loss has stopped. Anyone else have this problem?    — Melanie R. (posted on February 4, 2004)

February 4, 2004
Our numbers are almost identical! I weighed 267 before surgery and now 21 months later weight 170. I have run almost 3 miles 4 or 5 times a week and can't seem to get below 170. Good Luck!
   — Lyndie B.

February 4, 2004
I had my surgery on 12-11-00 and went from 253 lbs. down to 150 lbs. In the past year I have gone up to 170, and now I'm stuck also. I feel the same way, though. I realize how different things are and better, but still, I was really hoping to get down a bit more. I don't have any suggestions, but I just wanted to let you know, you're not alone! Good luck! Maria
   — Maria H.

February 4, 2004
Melanie: It sounds like you've done very well. How long have you maintained your loss? Also, how tall are you and what is your body frame size? Maybe your body just wants you to be at that weight. I'm 5'7" with a large frame, and I feel 170 would be a good weight for me to attain and maintain. If you are interested in losing more, it sounds like you'll have to "diet" at this point. I know another girl who is almost 2 years out, and she would like to lose another 30 pounds, but knows it isn't going to happen without a lot of effort. She told me she has upped her protein to about 100 grams a day, and is doing more strenuous aerobic exercise and weight training. Your eating sounds fine, so maybe you should examine the exercise routine. If you're walking 2 miles a day, could you shoot for 3? And also, make sure you're walking at a pace that gets your heart rate really going. If you can carry on a conversation normally while you're walking it's probably too slow a pace. You should almost "not" be able to speak while you're walking. Good luck to you, and congratulations on your achievements so far.
   — Carlita

February 5, 2004
Thanks for all the wonderful help! My frame is small and I am only 5'3" so I could stand to lose a few more pounds. I am going to up my protien and my water and exercise more. I guess it is back to that ugly "D" word - Diet.
   — Melanie R.

February 5, 2004
Melanie, I am the same height as you and 2 years post op. I went down to around 150 and have worked to maintain ever since. I will tell you that at our stage, its strictly a calories game. Your body is satisfied with the amount of calories you provide it which apparently is just right to maintain 170. Your only options to get the scale moving again is to eat less calories and move more. Walking 2 miles is not gonna do it unless your huffing and puffing and sweating. You need heart pumping cardio exercise to burn those calories. Next, eat more often (food is fuel for the metabolism to burn), like 6 times a day but stick to small amounts and mostly protein. Up the water intake too-eliminate all other liquids and stick to tons of water. Good luck.
   — Cindy R.