really feel a difference?

Hi everyone! I'm so glad this board was created because this question is just for us! I started last August at 389lbs. In one year I have managed to loose 106 pounds! Which is very exciting! I'm now at 283 and can't remember when I was that! Although I look different, I really don't feel that different. Every once and while I'll notice I'm breathing easier while walking, or I'll walk up a couple flights without huffing and puffing. And think "wow, I couldn't do that before". But as a whole I still have no energy! Other people on the boards say once they loose such a large amount they feel "young and alive"! I am still always sooo tired. The only thing I could think of is I'm not the greatest exerciser. Is that what makes people feel so different at one year out? Thanks for your help! Becca 389/283/170

Since I'm not postop I can't say "yep that's it" but.... I would think that it is a large part of it... since most of the people I've seen posting have some sort of specific exercise plan (once they're allowed to exercise).

Since I'm not postop I can't say "yep that's it" but.... I would think that it is a large part of it... since most of the people I've seen posting have some sort of specific exercise plan (once they're allowed to exercise).

Hi Becca, When I lost my first 100 - I was just starting to feel better - I was also just starting to come out of denial about how bad it had really gotten. It was hard to see changes when I pretended that "everything was fine" before, know what i mean? What I did my first year - and will do the rest of my life is commit to 30 minutes of walking every single day. Doesn't have to be in a row - can be 2 15 minute walks, could be 10 3 minute walks. And everything counts - taking the stairs, shopping, evening strolls, etc. You've come so far, but still have a long way to go - But if you've done the first 100, you can do the second one too! Keep fighting the good fight, you're halfway done! Hugs and support, ~Lara

Becca, I am almost 3 years post-op....started at 375 and "only" ever got down to 250. I have exercised almost every day (either Curves, aerobics class, Walk Away the Pounds, walking, etc.) I HAVE NEVER gotten energy. Yes, I can do more things and don't get winded like before....but I am also weary, tired, or fatigued. I get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, my labs are perfect. So you are not alone. There is someone else out there that never got "energy" --- me! ;0)

HAve you had bloodwork done lately? Perhaps you need your iron and B-12 levels checked. I started out at 395, and lost 52 pounds in the first two months---and BOY! did that energize me! I'm now down 150 pounds, and I really do feel about 20 years younger. No, I don't have a regular exercise routine, nor have I ever---but as I've lost weight, I've just naturally become more active and interested in doing physical things. I think you need to discuss this with your surgeon or PCP---there may well be a biochemical reason you're not feeling as well as you should.

Becca~ Sorry you're having so much trouble. I wish I could magically give you a lot more energy. I started at 391 pounds. I hated exercise. I had to force myself to make it part of my daily routine. Like brushing my teeth. I still don't like exercise...but it does make me feel better. It does make a HUGE difference in my energy level. I'm really happy with my results so far (-94 pounds), and while I can't say the exercise routine is easy...I can say it's worth it. I started by walking up and down my street. I progressed to walking once around the track at a nearby middle school. I then walked two, three, and then four. Now, I get to work early and do a few laps around our building (3-5 laps). Then, since I don't use my lunch hour to eat anymore, I use it to work out instead. I usually do about 20 minutes of cardio (exercise bike...which I could only do for 3 minutes the first time), and then another 20 minutes or so of alternating resistence/weight training. I hope this helps! Julie