Question:
Feeling like a failure with this surgery. I started out at 417 and almost

a year later i weigh 322lbs. I work out five days a week and two of those days are with a trainer. My doctor is very disappointed and last week a friend of mine told me he was disappointed as well. He said he thought I would lose at least 200lbs in the first year. I feel better, stronger. I do see some differences, but this is really beginning to bum me out. So much so that I have even skipped doctor's appts. just as not to hear about it. I haven't even scheduled my yearly exam. I don't know what I am doing wrong, I am definitely losing inches and I am healthy. any advice on what I am doing wrong?    — gloria M. (posted on May 8, 2003)

May 8, 2003
You may be working out too much. Putting on muscle instead of losing weight. Really you do not need vigorous exercise. Walking and swimming do wonders. What are you drinking during your workout. Watch out of the gatorades and exercise drinks full of sodium. You may blow up like a big balloon. Remember not everyone loses at the same rate. Stop worrying about what others say and keep up the good work!!
   — Mercy P.

May 8, 2003
I would also examine the eating habits also. Kepp a food diary. Often after a year some old things creep back in. We can eat more and the body becomes comfortable. Also you may be in a starvation mode from the exercise and food choices. Our bodies are tricky things. I am not coming down but just asking you to take a good look at what you're doing. Change the routine. Up intake of protein and slow exercise. Try drinking more water. See if tyou can jumpstart. Take care of yourself.
   — snicklefritz

May 8, 2003
Hi Gloria, Don't skip your doctor's appts. 100 lbs is pretty good in a year so don't give up. I read you work out 5 days a week. That builds muscle. Muscle weighs more than fat. Try to do more cardio. You will burn fat all over your body with cardio. I am sure your trainer has told you this. And drinks lots of water. You may be a slow loser, your skin should shrink and look pretty good when you get to your goal. Keep it up and make your doctor's appts!!! Good luck!
   — Mimi S.

May 8, 2003
Hi, I'm sorry that you are going through such a hard time. I haven't had surgery yet but I do know somewhat how you feel have done everything but back flips to try and lose weight. What types of foods are you eating and what are you drinking? Has your Dr. and you trainer already looked at those things? What type of surgery did you have? There are so many different small details could make a difference. The only thing I can tell you is to continue to look at how, when and what you eat and drink. 100lbs in a year is not the most terrible thing; everyone is different and maybe you just lose slower than most. Just immagine if you hadn't had the surgery and where you might be now if you didn't. I wish you the best and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless - Barb M
   — Sweet N.

May 8, 2003
Are you still intact? Could you have mechanical failure, such as staple line disruption? How do you eat? What do you eat & drink? Plenty of water? My rules for myself: no milk, no sugar, no grazing, no drinking with meals. I use protein shakes several times a day, for protein & for appetite & volume control. Do any of those ring bells?
   — vitalady

May 9, 2003
To add to Michelle's questions, I would ask are you distal or proximal? This can make a big difference in how well you do that first year. Personally, I think you need better friends!
   — [Deactivated Member]