Question:
How is it possible that I am only 3 weeks out and within the last week I have

actually gained 4lbs. I have been eating only chicken, fish, some cheese(cottage cheese, string cheese) and drink only water(64-74oz) & green tea. I get in about 40gms of protein in a day take my vitamins and walk as much as possible. I am getting so discouraged here! I thought at first it might be because I was on my period but I have been off of it for 4 days and actually gained 2lbs in the last two days alone. My surgeon bypassed my entire stomach so I don't think it's that. And I eat only protein rich foods and when I do eat cottage cheese it's low fat. I have been having problems with constipastion and only go about once a week. Could this be the problem? If anyone can give me some insight into what I might be doing wrong please tell me I'm all ears. Thanks, Audrey    — Audrey W. (posted on July 24, 2003)

July 24, 2003
Even though it's no longer time for your period it could still be fluid retention. At only 3 weeks out your body is still in recovery mode and it's not unusual for it to do wierd things. I know it's discouraging but it will correct itself quickly just hang in there! Best wishes to you.
   — ronascott

July 24, 2003
If you look at the archives, you will see that quite a few people have had weight gain problems early on. I know I did. One recommendation is to not weight yourself every day.
   — M B.

July 24, 2003
I just went through the same thing a few weeks ago. I had lost 30 pounds initially, then hit almost 3 week plateau and went up 3 pounds. I just kept on doing what I was supposed to and it finally broke, then I lost almost 20 pounds in the next 24 days. So just keep it up - it will come off!!
   — J G.

July 24, 2003
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE get off that bloody scale!!! You are only 3 weeks out. There is probably nothing wrong with you. It is natural for our bodies to change, readjust, retain water, etc. Many people plateau or gain weight around 3-4 weeks. If you can help it at all, do not weigh yourself more than once a week. It will save you a lot of heartache. Trust me. That said, upping your protein intake couldn't hurt. Try introducing a protein drink and try to double that daily protein amount from 40g to 80g. As far as the constipation goes...it is not good for our bodies to only go once a week. Get yourself some Benefiber. It is tasteless and not gritty. It completely dissolves in liquid. Take 2 tablespoons with 8 oz of liquid everyday and see if that helps. It works for me. Good luck!
   — Kristen S.

July 24, 2003
Audrey, I am 4 weeks out and in the same exact position. I have actually gained 4-5 pounds myself. I went to an aftercare class today at the hospital and the nurse said that 3 pounds could be a fluctuation, but 4 pounds is definately a gain, which made my heart sink. I don't think that I am eating enough to gain and I'm walking an hour each day to boot. Thanks for your question. You're not alone. I'm beginning to think that I'm failing this surgery. Let me know how your're doing.
   — Holly M.

October 19, 2004
Hi, your not alone. I am 10 weeks out and have the same problem with constipation. I gain a couple of pounds (that's scary) I have been going potty once a week and then I loose the added weight plus some. My doctor told me I need to be going at least every other day. I am working on the constipation problem and then I think I will continue with my loosing. Good luck to you. I just wanted you to know that I was looking for someone that was experiencing the same roller coaster ride I was.
   — Kellie W.

October 19, 2004
There are a million and one reasons why, so don't stress over the number on the scale, especially at 3 weeks out. Fluid retention, plateaus or just changes in your body. You might consider upping your protein and adding a fiber supplement for the constipation problem. But above all--check with your surgeon if you think there's a problem.
   — Cathy S.