Question:
not being very careful..need to get on the bandwagon.

I am 7 months post op and have gone from 257 to 165. However, Ive barely lost 5 pounds in the last 7 weeks. I was running, but do to travel and vacation, have gotten out of the habit. I will start running again tonight. Also, I have been snacking a bit between meals, which I need to cut out. Here's where everyone will crucify me--I have never taken supplements or protein. I am considering protein, but don't want to take in those calories. I want to lose 30-40 more pounds. Is it probable that I can if I get back on my stringent bandwagon? I look good and am in size 12 & 14, so 30-40 more pounds would put me in what I would think would be a very thin category. So what do you all think?    — jami G. (posted on July 18, 2001)

July 18, 2001
I'm preop, but I know from years of dieting there are plenty of low calorie protiens: egg whites, white chicken or turkey meat, fake eggs (eggbeater, etc), almost any fish or shellfish... these are all low calorie and good sources of protein. Good luck
   — Becky K.

July 18, 2001
I won't claim to be an expert or anything... but, it is my understanding that protein intake helps build muscle tissue and muscle burns more calories than fat. So, I would definitely NOT risk the medical complications of protein deficiency thinking that protein would be a hindrance to weight loss. Besides - protein 'first' is a cardinal rule for WLS patients... isn't it?
   — Davina H.

July 18, 2001
I eat alot of protein, I just don't use protein powders and the such. My labs are good. But if the powder really helps jumpstart the end of a plateau, I'm interested.
   — jami G.

July 18, 2001
I take 120-180g of protein supps a day, sometimes more if I can time it. I have weighed 110-115 or so for over 6 yrs now. If they are not too high in sugar themselves and not added to sugars (real juice, milks), they will make you lose. The only way to GAIN on them is to use with milk or juice or other high sugar foods. Otherwise, they help with cravings, and help retain muscle, which encourages the fat to leave.
   — vitalady

April 14, 2002
257 to 165 in 7 months is REMARKABLE. Your slowed weight loss is due to your body still adjusting....in my opinioin. Gosh, I wish I could report numbers like that! You want depressed? Try 290 to 231 in 7.5 months! Thats me! :-( Lisa in NY
   — Lisa G.

June 25, 2004
I tried the protein shakes and just couldn't do it. They were too gritty for me, but I look at the labels of all foods trying to find ones that will give me the most protein. Protein is the key! I have also started the snacking thing and now that is part of the reason I haven't lost but a pound or two in the last few weeks. But again I think it is all part of our bodies adjusting the new changes we've put it through. Good luck! Kristina
   — Sanborn05