Question:
Why am I losing weight so slowwwww?

I am four weeks out today and have only lost 15 lbs. I know I am a light weight, starting at 227 and 5 feet tall, but this is so slow. I feel like I am having to work my butt off for every pound just like before surgery when ever I was on a diet. My surgeon has us eat three 4oz meals a day, with protein being first chose. He doesn't want us using protein drinks, wants the protein from food. I am getting in 80oz of water a day, and joined the gym last week, so am working out. I lost two pounds this week and two and a half pounds last week, and that is with exercise. Am I ever going to reach goal at this rate? Any suggestions on how to speed things up?    — Robin T. (posted on June 11, 2003)

June 11, 2003
If you check the old posts you will see that you are not the only one. Lightweights seem to lose slower. I am 10 weeks out and down 37lbs compared to my heavier counterparts who are hitting 50-60lb weight losses. My first 4 weeks seemed to last forever. Don't worry, it will come off slowly but surely. I followed the advise of posters here and made sure I drank protein (all Dr's have different instructions and theories) and ate my proper foods. Once I started getting my calories and protein leveled out I dropped a few more pounds. I plateau for 3 weeks, lose for 1 week. It will come off if you stick to the program. Everyone loses differently. Congrats on your 15lbs!!! That's 15lbs less that you have to lose in the future :-)
   — M B.

June 11, 2003
You are definitely a light weight and need to know that everyone loses weight at their own pace-some are just slower than others. Be patient, it will happen for you as long as you follow pouch rules. Each surgeon also seems to have a different eating plan so I will not dissuade you from your doctors plan. I will say however that many of us use protein shakes/supplements as early post-ops to get in enough protein when you can't eat enough food and for others of us, eating small frequent meals works best. Instead of 3 meals a day of 4 oz, more like 6 small meals of 2 oz each. This keeps the body fueled and burning calories since you are constantly feeding it. With that said, you will continue to lose whichever way you do it..just remember to get in enough protein, your doing well on the water and exercise (make sure you are doing cardio-heart pumping), and do not drink with or right after meals.
   — Cindy R.

June 11, 2003
HI ROBIN,LIKE YOU I ALSO AM 4 WEEKS POST-OP AND HAVE LOST 15LBS.STARTED AT 230LBS.5-51/2.I AM ASKING MYSELF THE SAME QUESTION?I NOTICE I HAVE SOME WATERGAIN.GUESS MUST PUSH MORE WATER GOOD LUCK TO US BOTH.....DEB
   — DEBORAH D.