How do I break through a plateau?

[caricap 0]

It has been a while since I posted a question or response. I've just been reading all the wonderful and not- so- wonderful happenings of everyone else. But I have come to the point that I need the enlightenment of experienced bandsters. I am nearing my one year mark (July 28th), and I am down 77-80 pounds (depending on which way the wind blows :thumbup:). I did want to have my first 100 pounds gone, but I don't think that is realistic at this point.

So here is my question... I am faithfully walking 2 miles everyday. I have added in another 1 on the bike at the gym and at least 45 minutes or so on the weights machines. But I just can't get the scale to budge. At my last appointment (in April) I was 304 and with 9.5ccs in 14cc band. I have good restriction. Do I need more exercises? More Protein? More Water? More prayer? (never mind I know the answer to that one :thumbup:).

[btrieger 21]

... Do I need more exercises? More Protein? More Water? More prayer? (never mind I know the answer to that one :thumbup:).

All of the above will help with the exception of prayer.

Congrats on your progress thus far!!

You didn't say how many calories or Protein you consume on an average day. You can try upping your protein and calorie intake a little and see what happens. If you start to gain, back down the calories.

Good luck!

Unfortunately, there is no exact science to it.

PS. I have been told to take a day or 2 off between weight lifting sessions. I've also been told it doesn't matter.

[reverie 49]

Try to mix up your exercise. Do some high cardio, maybe add in some weights. Try to mix up your calories. I'll eat 600 one day, 800 the next, 650 the next, and son on. I was at a plateau for a little and the scale has been moving again.

Make sure you're tracking your food, especially the Protein amounts. You may also want to keep an eye on your carbs, but that doesn't work for everyone.

[adagray 1]

I do tend to lose more on days that I take a moment to praise God before I step on the scale. It can't hurt!

More Protein and Water would help if you are low in those areas. Sounds like you have stepped it up on the exercise already which is good. You might not see results immediately w/the extra exercise, but hang in there because it really does make a difference in the long run.

The only other thing you might consider is if you are getting any empty calories any other ways. For me, I was still drinking alcohol when my weightloss started to slow. It was pretty obvious I had to give it up. Since giving it up (a month ago) and upping my exercise, I am losing a lot better now.

[LapNYC 3]

You've been banded longer than I have so I'm sure sure that I don't have any real wisdom that you don't have already. If it were me I'd cut some carbs (within reason) and up the exercise intensity. In the early going walking is enough but the bar gets higher as time goes on as you well know. Unless you have injuries I'd start running or spinning or something that leaves you hyperventilating, rather than enjoying the scenery.

If there already is some pep in your step, I'd eat some more fish, drink some more Water, get some more sleep and hope that this too shall pass!

[caricap 0]

Thinking that the carbs could be the issue.. I work at Headstart and we are consistently fed carb rich diets that we are required to eat with the kids. I prolly need to start shuffling the food around and passing on the carbs. My doc has never pushed no carbs/ no fat or any other restriction. he said be sure to eat Protein first then veggies then carbs. i may have gotten lax in that area. I also decided to up my exercise... I enjoy it very much but I also like to enjoy some indulgences (birthday cake).

Keep feeding the good advice!

[LeighaMason 19]

How much processed food are you eating? I find that I don't lose when I eat prepared food. Try eating things that are single ingredients or made from single ingredients.

[JJLaw08 4]

Prayer absolutely will help.

I think I may have hit a plateau, but I'm not eating the right foods so that is the reason. Keep praying and keep pushing!

Edited July 7, 2010 by Jessica4Bama

[LapNYC 3]

I should have just prayed instead of getting this silly lapband!

[123crod 170]

I should have just prayed instead of getting this silly LAP-BAND®!

I prayed for the Lapband!

[btrieger 21]

I prayed for the LAP-BAND®!

I had to have surgery to get mine. :confused:

[mom2girls 1]

I agree Protein and Water. I notice the weight comes off easier that way, and sometimes I will do s three day Liquid Protein diet to shock my body and it works for me i usually drop two pounds easy that way. good luck, you have done awesome so far!

[Angie65 7]

I keep losing and gain the same 2lbs for 2 months. I finally broke through my plateau by mixing up my calories and exercise program. I added 2 Protein drinks daily and I lost 5.5lbs in one week!:thumbup:

Good luck!:thumbup:

[123crod 170]

I had to have surgery to get mine.

You are tough, I pray I could find a way to get a band. Would have been nice if God just put it there. Would have saved me $13,000.

Cheri:smile2: