Question:
I am 10 1/2 months out and only losing about 2 or 3 pounds a month. Is this

normal? Is the weight loss gonna stop soon?    — Judy W. (posted on May 30, 2003)

May 30, 2003
How close to your goal are you? It is my understanding that the closer we get to goal the more "normal" our weight loss pattern. I'm 9 months out and I've lost 130 pounds - but I'm only losing about 10 to 15 pounds a month now and I expect it to slow even more. Much to my surprise, I've found that if I starve myself my weight is even slower to come off - if I bump up my calories (on healthy food) then the weightloss will speed up again. Hope this is helpful.
   — Etta M.

May 30, 2003
Judy, I'm in the same boat as you, but I'm almost seven months out. Last month I only lost two pounds, and this month I have only lost four. I am at 75% of my weight loss, and I did expect a slow down. Just not this drastic! I still want to lose 25 pounds, but I think it's going to take lots of exercise and strict adherence to our diet regimen. Just like normal people! I'm trying not to be frustrated by my slow rate of loss. Sometimes it's a little depressing to know of others who had their surgery after me losing more weight than me and doing it faster. I am convinced that my body can hang on to an ounce longer than anyone else! I am still thrilled with my overall loss and how much better I feel. Stay positive and believe that eventually it will all come off! Hang in there!
   — Gerry Y.

May 30, 2003
I'm 9 months out and weight loss has slowed to about 5-6 pounds a month for the past two months. I can go 2-3 weeks without losing. I'm learning the hard way that exercise is the key. I was doing a lot of walking in my neighborhood, which is great of course, but I have recently started going to the gym and doing the treadmill for 30 minutes straight. I would also recommend continuing with a protein supplement. Give your body what it needs: water, protein, exercise, and your vitamins. The weight will come off, and you will be healthy. Good luck, you can do it!!
   — Valerie B.

May 30, 2003
Plateaus are a PAIN! Take your measurements and this will sustain you through the plateau periods. My biggest fear when I hit a plateau is that this is the end of my losing. NOT! ;)
   — Ginger M.