Question about a Plateau and Protein Shake

[John_Yeti 0]

Hi everyone, i have a question for you all.

I've hit a huge plateau over the summer. I started out at 470 in Sept. 2008, worked my way down to 325 in May 2009. Since May, until now (Sept. 2009), i've been staying between 320-325. I don't go over nor under.

I eat a good Breakfast (usual egg whites and turkey bacon), for lunch i usually have a Protein / veggie or i will have a Protein shake. And for dinner, a Protein and 2 veggies/1 cheese.

I've been drinking a Protein Shake from the smoothie King brand called "Gladiator." Here are the nutrient facts:

Calories 187

Sodium 150mg

Carbs <1

Fiber <1

Sugar <1

Protein 45g

My question, would this shake everyday be causing me to stay at my weight? I'm barely getting 1200 calories total a day, but i thought that maybe the shake is somehow bulking me up and doing this... not sure. I do walk / bike / weight lift, so it's not like i'm not doing anything.

I also know i'll get the usual "You're gaining muscle and losing weight", but eventually i'm gonna lose more weight than the muscle i gain.... because i'm no Arnold, nor am i even close.

So, your thoughts are welcomed, please let me know what you think.

Thanks! :thumbup:

[greytz 4]

The shake shouldn't cause it. As long as you are using it as a Meal Replacement which it looks like you are then it should not be the problem. If you are eating the same thing everyday that may be the problem. It sounds like you should shake things up a bit. Are you exercising at all yet? Even if you walk around the block it should help also. Good Luck and keep us posted.

[John_Yeti 0]

The shake shouldn't cause it. As long as you are using it as a meal replacement which it looks like you are then it should not be the problem. If you are eating the same thing everyday that may be the problem. It sounds like you should shake things up a bit. Are you exercising at all yet? Even if you walk around the block it should help also. Good Luck and keep us posted.

Yeah, I'm walking / cardio workout / lifting weights at least 4 times a week. And i am replacing a meal with the shake.... just not sure why i've stopped... for such a long period. I could understand stopping, but for so long? lol i was having fun going down in pant sizes.... :thumbup:

[greytz 4]

Ok. Thats all great. However, I can tell you that if you are heavy duty weight training and lifting a lot of weight that is one of the reasons you are not losing. You may want to reconsider your weight training. I do weight train but only for toning purposes. It will definitely stop the weight loss if you are hitting it hard. The cardio is great and virtually any other type of exercise but the weight training is probably off limits with the exception of light weights.

[bearbandit 0]

Sounds like your getting the exercise...Try to increase the intensity and change it up a bit. Try cross training, doing sets and moving to the next exercise without taking a break. Also I am a firm believer that only eating 3 meals a day is not good for stumulating the metabolism. I eat every 3 hours. no big meals just small healthy items to keep you metabolism running strong. Plateau's can last a while and then all of a sudden the weight loss starts up again. Bottom line is your body is used to your routine...change things up...Shoot for 1200-1500 cals per day assuming you are not burning a huge amount during exercise, and if that is so you may need to consume more....try using The Daily Plate on LIVESTRONG.COM - Calorie Counter, Weight Loss, food Calorie Counter, Nutrition Facts | LIVESTRONG.COM (its free!)..great tool to keep track of calorie counts....Eat often!...At least that is what I would do...ps congrats on your weight loss thus far..great job and keep up the good work.:thumbup:

[John_Yeti 0]

Sounds like your getting the exercise...Try to increase the intensity and change it up a bit. Try cross training, doing sets and moving to the next exercise without taking a break. Also I am a firm believer that only eating 3 meals a day is not good for stumulating the metabolism. I eat every 3 hours. no big meals just small healthy items to keep you metabolism running strong. Plateau's can last a while and then all of a sudden the weight loss starts up again. Bottom line is your body is used to your routine...change things up...Shoot for 1200-1500 cals per day assuming you are not burning a huge amount during exercise, and if that is so you may need to consume more....try using The Daily Plate on LIVESTRONG.COM - Calorie Counter, Weight Loss, food Calorie Counter, Nutrition Facts | LIVESTRONG.COM (its free!)..great tool to keep track of calorie counts....Eat often!...At least that is what I would do...ps congrats on your weight loss thus far..great job and keep up the good work.:thumbup:

ty for the advice, and i will give it a try. :frown: