Question:
is five pounds a month the best to expect?

Hi, it's me the kvetch. Not that I'm not grateful, I lost 65 in five months as a lightweight. I only lost five pounds this month and that was with a really big addition of exercise. I can eat a lot more on some days, but I eat protein first, then my veggies, I keepaway from carbs and I feel let down that it slowed down. I was hoping for ten pounds a month. And yes, I hit plateaus, but I know that is part of the process.Old-timers, suggestions,experience from lightweights appreciated. Emails welcome! Please helpl. Thanks in advance.    — elaine27 (posted on May 12, 2003)

May 12, 2003
I'm in the same boat. I've lost 55lbs in 5 months. :( But, I feel better and better with each passing pound. That makes it worth it.
   — Diana L.

May 12, 2003
Darlene, 65 in 5 months is great for a lightweight! And although you may have only lost 5lbs. this month, you're average is about 13lbs. a month, so its not every month. Usually around the 6 month mark things slow down, so this is to be expected. You sound like you're doing well with exercise and you're eating overall. Make sure you're getting atleast 60grams of protein, more if you can. I averaged 10lbs. a month- I started at 250# and am now at 130# which is my goal, within a year, and I'm still losing more very slowly. As long as you keep doing what you're doing, you'll lose the weight. This is probably just a bad month, so don't worry too much about it. Goodluck to you!
   — Lezlie Y.

May 12, 2003
I too am a light weight, but I am short too..4'11". I am 54 and Im 6 months out. I have lost slowly from the beginning. Down 62 lbs and 64 inches in 6 months. I was so upset at first because I knew I was doing everything right and my doctor said I was doing good. Used a wheelchair alot at first but what really helped me was when I cut back on the carbs. I eat mostly protein now and have a veg and fruit carb with each meal. (I don't do potatoes, corn or beans though) If I have to snack I get a cheese stick or a few peanuts. I swim for exercise 4 times a week and the weight loss has picked up. Everyone of us is different and now I except the fact that I am not going to loose this the fast way but am thankful for every pound that is coming off. God Bless ya and hang in there, I think what you have accomplished is wonderful.
   — RitaJean

May 13, 2003
Maybe it has something to do with the "really big addition of exercise". Your body just might need some time to catch up.
   — eaamc

May 13, 2003
You are doing better than I! I am 4 months out, and down about 40 pounds. The last month, I lost about 4 pounds; I spent most of the month at a plateau. However, we still are in the weight loss window, so we should be losing for quite a few months. Good luck.
   — Beth S.