My hair loss has stopped, but it does seem like my split ends are worse these days. I'm sure the drastic reduction in fat intake has something to do with it. I can go a couple of days without washing my hair before I notice any oiliness (don't worry, I still shower daily--I just don't wash my very long hair every single day ). I didn't used to be able to do that. Also, there's a woman on another board I frequent who had beautiful dreadlocks pre-op and said she had to cut her hair very, very short because her dreadlocks were so brittle they were actually breaking off! So I guess dry, brittle, frizzy hair is common after WLS. My plan is to get a few inches cut off and keep trimming it back regularly until the new growth is all that's left. I'm also conditioning more regularly and (as I mentioned above) not washing it with every shower. It dries out and frizzes even more if I shampoo it every day, even if I use moisturizing shampoos. Anyway, you're not alone. My suggestions are: (1) shampoo less frequently (if that's an option for you) or use gentler shampoo; (2) aggressively trim off split ends; and (3) get a high-quality moisturizing conditioner or hot oil treatment and see if those help. There are also leave-in conditioners that you apply to damp hair after your shower and leave in all day to protect and moisturize. I used to use one of those and haven't gotten around to getting some again. Let us know if anything helps! ---- Leslie still -97

Hi, I have been at a stall for the last month or so (I think 6 weeks). I won't call it a plateau because I have lost inches and 1 lb. Yes, only 1 lb. My question is I am 7 months out. I did not exercise before now and I have started. I walk, not fast or speed, but the kids to and from school, the dogs, I have 3 and I take each one seperately to keep myself out there. I have also started to lift weights. Building muscle I know, I can see it. I lift arms and legs for about 25 mins a day. I can see a big difference in flabby arms and my thighs are getting tone. I eat protien and take my vitamins. And even before surgery I never had a problem drinking water. Its a big part of my day. Would this muscle build up be the reason for no more weight loss? I thought it would help to speed things up? I also wonder my doctor says to expect to lose 70% of your excess weight. I have done that now. Am I done? Or can I expect to lose more? Thanks for your input. Karin

I have high-lighted naturally curly hair as well and was experiencing dryness and frizzies all of a sudden as well. I think it is the change in out diets. I have been using Aveda's cherry almond bark conditioning treatment for the dry/frizzies. It says to use every 5 shampoos but I use it every time. It has made a huge difference in my hair. Good luck, Christie 338/229/170

I am doing well... I think... I have lost 95 lbs... before surgery I lost 55 so total of 150 lbs... still got a ways to go but I am feeling so much better..I am taking only 2 prescription meds and a year ago I was on 12...I do not do any protein drinks... my surgeon wants us to get our protein from real food... making a high protein/ low fat diet our life long diet...I eat cottage cheese almost every morning... It is what I tolerate best...I am eating mostly chicken and very lean beef....I am currently stuck on chili... Wendy's and home made..It is very low fat and high in protein... I get 60 gms or more of protein daily.. My 6 month lab work was all prefectly normal... I take a children's chewable multivitamin twice a day. I take in about 70 to 80 ozs of fluid daily. With my arthrits and fibromyalgia, it is hard to get all the exercise I need but I try to do all I can.. I have gotten a treadmill and am trying to walk daily... I am hoping to be able to do more soon.....We all like to compare with others but gotta remember we are all individuals and our success will vary... but focus on the SUCCESS you have and be glad for yourself as well as others... So I am glad we ALL are doing so well and that we made the decison to change our lives to a healthier lifestyle..

Oh Boy have I ever! I have been stalled for more than that. I stalled at one point for 10 weeks straight. always bouncing around 2-4 lbs. but never losing. I've only just recently moved a couple of pounds. I wish you all the luck in the world. My prayers and thoughts are with you. Lovey 309/238/172