why can't I lose weight?: I'd be really grateful if... - LUPUS UK

LUPUS UK

31,693 members28,073 posts

why can't I lose weight?

Ophelia1 profile image
96 Replies

I'd be really grateful if anyone could provide any advice or information on my query. I was diagnosed with lupus about two years ago and am under the care of a rheumatologist. My rheumatologist tells me that my lupus is mild. My main symptoms are joint pain, chronic oral issues including thrush and overwhelming fatigue, particularly in the mornings. I have a tendency now towards iron deficiency and am being monitored for this. I gained three stones over the past three years partly because I was unable to exercise (I used to run daily) and also I think because of the disease itself - there seems to be no other reason. Anyway, after Xmas I stated to feel a bit more energetic and to that end I returned to the gym and have been running three times a week since then. I can now jog for 30 minutes without stopping. My diet is very healthy - no junk food etc. HOWEVER, I have lost no weight whatsoever. I still weigh 11 stone!!! I do feel a bit thinner and I am told I look a bit thinner than before xmas yet no weight loss although I'm jogging three times a week. What on earth is going on? Is this inflammation? I'd really welcome your advice and any information anyone can offer.

Written by
Ophelia1 profile image
Ophelia1
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
96 Replies
PMRpro profile image
PMRpro

Studies have shown that exercise is pretty ineffective for weight loss - the body steals more calories than you can use exercising! A healthy diet and exercise don't always do it however conscientious you are. Plus you start to build muscle again - and muscle weight considerably more for the same volume than fat. You replace fat with muscle - that weighs more! Hence the change in shape.

What medication are you on? I know it is unusual for lupus patients to be on steroids but they have a disastrous effect on weight loss for any patient on them and the only way to be able to successfully get weight off is to cut carbs, especially processed carbs and added sugar. It is a very effective weight loss approach anyway and works even when you can't exercise. Worth a try maybe?

This is an excellent introduction:

dietdoctor.com/low-carb/foods

You don't need to join or pay anything - learn the principles.

Ophelia1 profile image
Ophelia1 in reply to PMRpro

Hi I'm on no meds at all. Hydroxychloroquine didn't agree with me, so I stopped taking it a long time ago. I'm puzzled by this inability to lose weight. I know what you are saying about muscle etc, but I just don't think it's that. Thanks for the response though. All the best

PMRpro profile image
PMRpro in reply to Ophelia1

I didn't think you were on pred - I was just suggesting a better approach ot weight loss.

Ingrid1234 profile image
Ingrid1234 in reply to PMRpro

“Studies have shown that exercise is pretty ineffective for weight loss - the body steals more calories than you can use exercising!“———-

Are you sure?🧐👆

PMRpro profile image
PMRpro in reply to Ingrid1234

" ... And even if we manage to exert that much effort, our bodies often compensate by boosting appetite and dialing down metabolism, effects that over time limit how many pounds we shed."

time.com/6138809/should-you...

talks about the amount of exercise that equals a can of soda.

But by "stealing" I meant the effect on appetite - so you have done your exercise and even an extra "healthy" apple covers the calories. And on metabolism - the body "dials down" the metabolic rate. So you would have to cut the intake even further.

Exercise will tone your body, change shapes and you probably look better - but you may well not lose weight. It is still what you eat that matters and you have to find the right eating pattern and NOT return to the old habits once you have lost weight in the first place or it will just pile back on.

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to PMRpro

Most people don’t realise how much exercise is needed to burn off any extra calories we’ve taken on board . A half marathon is probably needed to burn off a snickers 😂. X

PMRpro profile image
PMRpro in reply to Tiggywoos

And how many dieters head for the gym - and leave with a Snickers in their hand??? ;)

svfarmer profile image
svfarmer in reply to Tiggywoos

Oh I would kill for a snickers 😂😂💕

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to svfarmer

😋 😂. Ever had the ice cream one ?? 😋😋😋😋😋😋

svfarmer profile image
svfarmer in reply to Tiggywoos

Omg yes I have, they are scrumptious beyond words 😋😋😋😋😘

Kaboom1250 profile image
Kaboom1250 in reply to Tiggywoos

OR put one in the freezer🥰🥰🤣

in reply to Kaboom1250

Cream eggs in the freezer!!!!

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to svfarmer

I thought Ingrid had given pmrpro the middle finger 🖕 then 😂. Did make me chuckle 🤭

svfarmer profile image
svfarmer in reply to Tiggywoos

😂😂😂😂😂🤭🤭

PMRpro profile image
PMRpro in reply to Tiggywoos

She possibly meant to ...

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to PMRpro

🤭🤭😂

in reply to svfarmer

Given the topic shouldn’t we still call them marathons 😂😂

svfarmer profile image
svfarmer in reply to

😂😂😂

Spanielmadlady profile image
Spanielmadlady in reply to

Even though I can't eat them anymore they will always be marathons to me x

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to

😂😂

KayHimm profile image
KayHimm in reply to Tiggywoos

What about the cheeseburger I ate last night?

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to KayHimm

As long as you enjoyed it 🤤

KayHimm profile image
KayHimm in reply to Tiggywoos

Hahaha .. I did.

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to KayHimm

I used to work in wimpy bar and I used to eat more than I cooked 🤭🙈

KayHimm profile image
KayHimm in reply to Tiggywoos

😂 Last night I ordered in a cheeseburger, couldn’t decide between a baked potato and Mac n cheese. So I got both. Cardiologist threatened to increase meds last time if labs not better. Think we know the answer. Canceled appointment for second time …

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to PMRpro

Good post 👏👍

Ingrid1234 profile image
Ingrid1234 in reply to PMRpro

According to your first reference:“Of course, the benefits of physical activity extend well beyond these. It’s been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, dementia, depression, colds, back pain, osteoporosis and premature death. It can also improve sleep, boost energy, fend off old-age feebleness and even enhance our sex lives...”

I’ve ditched the car, walk everywhere and only use public transport and never a gym.🤣👆Hence exercise is actually part of my everyday life.👏

Christineosh profile image
Christineosh in reply to PMRpro

I take now 10 mg steroids a day as I get Lupus related lung problems if I go below that it flares up. A food diary maybe good my daughter uses Fodmap that shows what food work for you. She lost 2 stone as what we think is healthy May just not suit your body

Ingrid1234 profile image
Ingrid1234 in reply to PMRpro

Is calorie counting not valid then!🧐Are nutrition labels meaningless!🧐

Star13 profile image
Star13

Muscle weighs more than fat so if you have turned some of your fat to muscle from running then that can do it. If your weight stays the same it means you are burning the same amount of calories as your eating. Try a higher protein diet like the Michael Mosley 800 Diet. Providing you have no kidney issues this could be good for you to try. I lost a stone with no exercise at all as has my other half.

Ophelia1 profile image
Ophelia1 in reply to Star13

Hi Star 13 Thanks for your reply. I don't really feel that the muscle / fat differential is the issue here. Previously, whenever I wanted to lose weight I just exercised and ate less and hey presto, within weeks weight began to fall off quite satisfactorily. I am eating less, exercising more and eating very healthily, watching my carb intake, but no weight loss, or very very little. Also, I don't drink alcohol, but for some reason I am not losing weight. I personally feel that it's related to inflammation. My inflammatory markers go up and down at will. Even my CA125 markers went into the hundreds last year for no reason - scans showed no cancer. I have read that inflammation interferes with metabolism and I had hoped that somebody may have been able to work around that in some way. :(

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos

Can you remember what weight you’ve stayed at for the longest period of time in your adult life ? Quite often that’s the weight our body is most at ease with …Makes me laugh when your dr says “mild lupus” as your symptoms sound horrid and not mild . Amazing effort on the exercise but fine balance between doing too much and not enough as I’m sure you know 😘x

Oshgosh profile image
Oshgosh

I think if you going to the guy, it’s for my back pain, but I can still bend down, thank goodness good for your joints and flexibility, even though you might not lose weight. I’ve been on pred10 mgm for 3 years. I’ve lost over 3 stone without trying, my appetite is dreadful. I go to the gym to keep my body going. I just do the bits .I can.it doesn’t do anything for my bad back. Just keep It up. I’m envious that you can jog

Ophelia1 profile image
Ophelia1 in reply to Oshgosh

Hi Oshgosh - I couldn't have jogged last year, or the year before. It's only since I had an iron infusion last year that my energy levels have risen enough to enable me to start and complete a couch to 5k type programme. Before that I was going to the gym but just messing about really. Not fit enough to do any proper exercise. Now that I'm on a programme I feel more focussed. I hope you get better. All the best

svfarmer profile image
svfarmer

Hi Ophelia1 I’ve been trying to lose weight since after Christmas and I’ve only lost about 5 pounds up until now but hay it’s something - like you I’ve put on a lot of weight, I’ve gone from a 12 to now a 16 - I’m desperately trying to fit into my wedding dress which stupidly went and got it just after my hysterectomy 6 months ago, I was quite I’ll and lost a lot of weight so hence why it didn’t fit -I’ve got till July to fit in it - I’m on loads of medication and eat so healthy and do exercise - I wonder if you are eating enough ?? As if you cut calories too much your body goes into fat storing - I’ve been eating 1500 calories per day - 3 meals per day i have cut out sugar and just eat clean food ie no ready meals etc and have also cut caffeine out and gluten and interestingly I have noticed a marked improvement in my swelling of all my fingers 😀 xx

Ophelia1 profile image
Ophelia1 in reply to svfarmer

Hi SV Farmer - I feel your pain. To me there seems to be neither rhyme, nor reason to the whole weight gain thing. Like you, I eat clean food only and am gluten free. Sometimes my fingers are like sausages and sometimes they are not, but I don't notice any particular reason why my joints are sometimes bad and sometimes good. I started seeing a really good chiropractor recently and I think I'm benefitting from that. Keep plugging away. Fingers crossed that your body will cooperate with your own efforts and you'll fit into that wedding dress in July. :)

PMRpro profile image
PMRpro in reply to Ophelia1

Gluten has little role to play in weight - but if you are eating gluten-fee ans using commercial g/f products you may be eating far more than you think. g/f bakery products in particular are VERY calorie dense and often have a lot of sugar to make them palatable.

Sugars and simple carbs are very pro-inflammatory - on my forum lots of people find they feel far worse after a birthday party or holiday where they have eaten more of such foods.

svfarmer profile image
svfarmer in reply to Ophelia1

Thankyou so much x

Willow7733 profile image
Willow7733 in reply to svfarmer

I was wondering, since you said hysterectomy, and this is a weight loss/gain thread, if you noticed a lot of bloating since your surgery? I had my hysterectomy four months ago Abdominal), and my stomach still swells a lot (like a four inch difference from the morning to when I get up, until I get home from work at night.). None of my clothes fit. I have a winter jackets that zips up easily in the morning, but after my shift, I can’t even get it close to being able to zip up! Which is a problem because I go into shift wearing my jeans, and when I change from my scrubs after shift, they don’t fit! I work in a hospital. I am trying to get down to my pre-surgery weight. It is crazy. 🤷‍♀️

svfarmer profile image
svfarmer in reply to Willow7733

I also had abdominal hysterectomy and didn’t really notice too much bloating for very long although I defo have more belly fat now since having it . X

Willow7733 profile image
Willow7733 in reply to svfarmer

Then something is wrong with me. I bloat up in several inches from morning to evening. My doctor hasn’t had a follow up with me since I was discharged on October 30th. Maybe it is time to call her up and talk.

StriatedCaracara profile image
StriatedCaracara

Hi Ophelia1

I put on weight too since first had noticeable autoimmune symptoms in 2019.

To start with I was worried but then I noticed the depth of sub-cutaneous fat under my skin was not getting thicker. So weight gain I thought for me must be something else...

Assessment of body fat by skinfold thickness (measurements are normally taken on the left side of the body) is often done in four areas.

Biceps - 5 mm

Triceps - 16 mm

Sub-scapular (below shoulder blade) - 9mm

Supra-iliac (side - just above hip bone - waist) - 17mm

I've included measurements when I was 18 years old. I think these were quite good.

I would embarrass myself if I shared what they had increased, particularly the waist one ...

sciencedirect.com/topics/ag...

Durnin and Rahaman wrote a paper in 1967 about use of this method. Somewhere on the net there must be some normal ranges for now, but have not found them yet

Ophelia1 profile image
Ophelia1 in reply to StriatedCaracara

Hi Striated Caracara - My wait measurements are a shocker :)

Bobbydoodle profile image
Bobbydoodle

Hi that must be frustrating. Have you had your thyroid checked? You know your body and if you’re eating less and moving more then it may be something medical is out of whack.

If you struggle to get in to see your doctor you can pay privately online to have the blood checked for a full thyroid check.

Good luck I hope you get to the bottom of it.

Ophelia1 profile image
Ophelia1 in reply to Bobbydoodle

Hi Bobbydoodle - I did think initially that it was some sort of thyroid issue, but I've had all of those tests several times and even had a trial of T3 and T4 to no real avail. I don't think its a thyroid issue, or at least I don't think it's an issue which begins and ends with the thyroid.

BonnyB profile image
BonnyB

Hi, I put weight on with diagnosis of uctd and went through the change at the same time. Not sure if one was to blame or both but I felt really sluggish and felt the extra weight on my joints. Plus I had covid NY and knew I had to eat properly and try to get myself feeling better.I've joined slimming World. Been going 12 weeks and lost over a stone in weight. I feel much better for it. Its an easy diet to follow and I can honestly say I haven't felt hungry once.

I go to the classes to weigh in and stay for an hour, which I'm also enjoying. Met some lovely people and we have a laugh. You can also do it online.

Everyone is different but this has been good for me, might be for you too. Xx

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to BonnyB

Good for you 😊… nice to be in a supportive group with others in their weight loss journey too I’m sure ❤️X

Treetop33 profile image
Treetop33

Definitely get your thyroid checked out!

There are lots of myths about losing weight, but one thing that is being revised now is that too many carbs and sugar is the problem. Personally I think you need a few carbs, but as you get older certainly not as much. And more fat is fine to compensate. Exercise is great for your autoimmunity as well as health, but it isn't a weight loss plan.

I'm on pred, but under that regime, I've not put on excess weight (well my face has got fatter - not much you can do about that!).

Inflammation may be a thing in terms of weight - the body is mysterious. You could try other approaches to get the lupus under control. I think we do need some medication, normally. You could look at low-dose naltrexone, e.g. And there are other drugs.

Ophelia1 profile image
Ophelia1 in reply to Treetop33

Thanks for this Treetop33. I think you are right. I am open to anything and everything. I've tried hydroxycholoroquine and a few similar meds but they really didn't agree with me, but I'm not against meds if they work. May well try others as time passes. Many thanks

Loopyru profile image
Loopyru

I think this has been a really interesting and informative conversation- thank you to everyone who has contributed. How well it shows that we all support and are sympathetic to each other. Take care everyone.

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone

You sound as if you are heading in the right direction….don’t get too hung up on what the scales say.Most of us would love to be able to jog for thirty minutes & still be able to breathe……

You say you feel a bit thinner…..so just wait a couple of months on your present regime & I bet that zip will soon be sliding much easier.

You took three years to put on the weight….so say one year to lose it would be good going.

Don’t be tempted by weight loss faddy diets…….sensible exercise & healthy eating as you describe will get you slimmer……then you can be off buying new slimline clothes.💃

Good Luck….

Ophelia1 profile image
Ophelia1 in reply to AgedCrone

Hi Aged Crone - I hear what you're saying and perhaps I am expecting too much too fast. Previously, whenever I wanted to lose weight it happened very quickly once I upped my exercise and reduced my intake of calories. That is just not happening anymore and I suppose there are two main reasons for that, lupus being the main one and aging being the other. It is galling to be exercising and to be eating a very healthy diet (no junk, no microwaved food, all home cooking, nothing fattening) and still to find the scales showing 11 stones. 11 stones is not a natural weight for me. I am small and I do not look slim at 11 stones.

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply to Ophelia1

Try not to let the urge to be 8 stone again take over…..that is about what I weigh…I have always been a poor eater….good food but not much of it, & have spent my life being polite to people telling me “you’d be much better if you ate more”. Grrr!But before I was diagnosed I did a job that required strength & good health……so how would eating more have helped what was OK anyway?

We are all different….& as long as you continue to feel you are getting slimmer…you are getting something right!

To my mind…weight is like age…..a number!

Buy a next size down T shirt you really like & see how soon you fit it!

One consolation…people do seem to lose weight as they get older…Being very old I remain around my fighting weight!

You will get there!

Koala06 profile image
Koala06

Hello. Removing the sugar helps to reduce inflammation. But Did you try to just cut the salt? And manage your stress? Sometimes the swollen effect and weight, comes from water retention or high blood pressure. These can come from too much stress and bad sleeping habits too. And then the weight doesn't move despite efforts.

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley

I know why I am obese because despite being a veggie, not eating processed foods or milk I am unable to exercise. When I can exercise ( nothing like you just walking) I lose weight. I lost seven stone in 2 years but sadly have piled 4 back on because of tendon injuries and falls. It is disheartening. I wish you so much luck xxx

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to CecilyParsley

To even lose 1/2 stone is an amazing achievement CP so don’t ever let anyone take that amazing achievement away from you . It’s not your fault you can’t exercise and I wish I could pull that 🪄 out of the box to fix your tendons 😢. Please don’t call yourself the “O” word . You’re a unique beautiful human being 😍.

I hate the way we are all labelled by size and consultants often don’t help with the wording they use in their letters . If I was typing letters I’d say “ you shouldn’t use those words to describe a patient how is it helpful

“? . It’s funny as I am a Pilates teacher and I couldn’t really tell you what size my lovely class members are as I see them as people not sizes .

I really pray you will get a glimmer of hope soon regarding your joints and tendons . Big hugs xx

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley in reply to Tiggywoos

Thank you so much. I really wish I could do Pilates. I look at QVC with longing at the machine that you pull yourself along and do all sorts but I could never get up off it. It reminds me of a device I used to attach to the door frame and pull your arms down and your legs would shoot up in the air. I used it regularly and that, dancing and walking the dog kept me a size 12. Those were the days xxx

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to CecilyParsley

You must look up chair 🪑 Pilates on YouTube . It’s really lovely and you’d be surprised how much can be done seated . There’s some lovely neck and shoulder stretches and stretches for your back and legs .

Those machines sound like torture 😂.

I know it’s a cracked record but the breathing is so lovely . It’s the only thing that takes me out of my horrid busy 🧠.

I’m sure you do stretches anyway so just ignore me 😂 😘xxx

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley in reply to Tiggywoos

Oh thank you I will look that up. I miss my gentle exercise class even though I was a bit of a liability. I threw a ball which bounced off the guy with a stroke that I had intended to throw it to and bounced on a guy in a wheelchair waking him up. I laughed so hard I nearly fell over. Another time they unleashed us on the gym. I was helping a curvy lady with a stroke squeeze her dead arm into a machine ( she asked me honestly) I pushed and lost be balance falling on top of her. We were both laughing so hard as the stick thin trainers tried to separate us. It did me the world of good laughing at myself and moving too until my knee dislocated. Fingers and toes crossed that I get a non judgemental, constructive Ortho tomorrow 🤞🏻 Xxx

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to CecilyParsley

Oh my goodness it sounds like a comedy sketch 😂🤭. Laughter is defo great medicine sometimes and I always say you need a sense of humour to cope with being Ill!Oh my goodness I didn’t realise it was Otho man today .. have you ever noticed they are generally always male 🤷‍♀️?

Loads and loads of luck 🍀. I always carry way too much resentment into my appointments regarding how 💩 previous appointments always were but I’m sure you won’t 😘😘😘. Let us know how it does xxxxxxxx

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley in reply to Tiggywoos

My old Ortho was a gent such a lovely man so this one has a lot to live up to. Thank you as always for your kindness xxx

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to CecilyParsley

Kindness is the very least we all deserve ❤️. I bet you any money the new ortho guy feels a bit in the shadows of the other guy as he was so good 😘xxxx

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley in reply to Tiggywoos

The new Ortho was lovely. MRI then referral back to my old Ortho who has returned whoop whoop. Xxx

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to CecilyParsley

You have made my day 🌸 😁😁. I am so happy for you ! Don’t forget to ring every day if you can as lots of departments getting cancellations at mo 👍. Go girl !!!!!! Xxx

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley in reply to Tiggywoos

I am relieved. He said the issue is clearly the hamstring still he pressed the back of my leg while I was standing and immediately my leg buckled. He said it was amazing that I was doing 45 minutes daily on the treadmill as my knees are some of the worst he has seen. He laughed out loud when I said that in the telephone appointment with the physio he told me to stand on one leg lol. Hopefully now they will be able to see what the issue is 🤞🏻 Xxx

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to CecilyParsley

This is sooo positive ! Someone who is interested and cares 😁. Had a feeling he’d be good as his predecessor was . Dare I ask have you had a physio app face to face yet ? There is bound to be some simple gentle exercises they can give you to help. Zxx

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley in reply to Tiggywoos

I have my next appointment on Thursday. I have been doing the stretching exercises but invariably my leg is more unstable afterwards. I joined EscapePain online to monitor progress and actually it is very minimal which worries me. The physio says the giving out of my leg is the body’s defence in severe pain, the tendon gives to stop the pain. Our bodies are so amazing really but I wish it wouldn’t do it. He noticed how bruised my arms and hands were from falling. I joked you really don’t want to see the worse ones. I am just very grateful someone is doing sonething xxx

Krazykat26 profile image
Krazykat26 in reply to CecilyParsley

Now I'm not great at maths so forgive me if if I've got this wrong CP 🤗By my reckoning your still three stone lighter!! Accentuate the positives 😁You gotta shake that awful consultation off so u can get the surgery on your poor knees 💜🌈😽😽xx

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley in reply to Krazykat26

Bless you I am still morbidly obese but once I can walk again I will get there. I just need a break from feeling so awful. It is no fun sitting constantly . My fat bottom is complaining lol. How are you Kat? I am almost afraid to ask for news on your car lovely? 🚗🚙 xxx

Krazykat26 profile image
Krazykat26 in reply to CecilyParsley

I know how determined you are lovely...you WILL get there like you say when your health is a bit more stable 🤗 Best of luck with your appt today 🤞that u get some kinda plan moving forward.Still no sign of the 🚐😹💜🌈😽😽xx

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley in reply to Krazykat26

Oh seriously Kat it is ludicrous now are they gold plaiting your car? I am so sorry that you still haven’t got it gggrr xxx

Roarah profile image
Roarah

It took a few years to add the weight. It naturally follows that healthy weight loss takes almost as long. It has only been a few months since you added more activity to your routine. You likely built more muscle which weighs more than fat but ultimately will help burn more calories than fat also. Keep going honestly for moving more and eating less works best for long term weight maintenance .

Krazykat26 profile image
Krazykat26

You're doing really well Ophelia 🤗Don't be so hard on yourself n enjoy your exercise. I couldn't jog if I wanted to 😹🌈😽😽xx

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to Krazykat26

I don’t tend to run unless I’m very late and then it’s not attractive 😂😂😘xxx Then you arrive at your appointment and they are running late anyway 🤦‍♀️

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone

But each person processes a cheese sandwich or an apple differently.I can go all day on a yoghurt+ an apple….l don’t feel hungry …whereas some people would be faint with hunger.

Companies like Weight Watchers seem to work for some people…but not for others…so I think we all have to work out how much/little food we need to achieve an acceptable (to each of us). weight…..it just depends what our goal is.

I think those who are clinically obese & waiting for surgery are very unlucky…they may overeat..,but if they are hungry all the time…who can blame them?

The sad thing is….after having the surgery they often have other health problems to cope with.

PMRpro profile image
PMRpro

Recent research has shown that not all calories are equal and calories in and calories out is not the entire story of maintaining a stable weight or weight loss. It is physiology - so probably metabolism which is biocemical and physiological factor.

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley

This morbidly obese person walked and walked before I tore my hamstring and muscles in my leg, despite balance problems and crumbling knees, a cracked patella, no cartilage and a knee that dislocates. Yet all anyone sees is a morbidly obese person. It is so sad really that people are so judgemental. I don’t watch the 35 stone programmes because my heart breaks for them. Over eating, binging is a disorder . I have considered a gastric band myself just to lose enough weight to get my knees replaced because then I can walk again. It really isn’t that simple you know.

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos in reply to CecilyParsley

I used to clean for an anaesthetist and my good friend worked in bariatric surgery . The bands do save the nhs millions and many patients from diabetes .. however .. nothing is ever that simple is it ? My friend said they used to counsel the patients years ago and many had some terribly sad stories as to why the weight went on but the counselling got scrapped . That’s why lots pay private now apparently as no questions are asked 🙈. Weight is a very complex issue be it under or over and everyone has their opinion don’t they 🤷‍♀️ . However , no one knows what anyone is going through and how their situation came about . I’m always telling mum off for saying “ look at her she’s obviously anorexic “. I say mum you don’t know she may be Ill or someone who just doesn’t put weight on !!! Xxxx 😘

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley in reply to Tiggywoos

Exactly right. When I was a size 12 and healthy and active I remember saying omg why do Peopke get that overweight? I would staple my lips. Sometimes if you cannot say something kind just say nothing is my motto now. There but for the grace of God as my Nan used to say xxx

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone

I didn’t mention the word nonsense..just that everyone is different.I just don’t think people sit down one day & think”Right I’’ll eat for England…& then I’ll get a gastric by-pass”….on the other hand, those of us who don’t put on weight don’t think”I’ll stay size 10 for ever ”.

What I do say is leave us skinnies & the other end of the weight spectrum to sort it for ourselves…..we don’t need being told we need therapy……& I bet if I was size 20…I wouldn’t join a gym!

Jumper99 profile image
Jumper99

If you Google ‘oral thrush and weight gain’ you will see quite a few sites that suggest that Candida infection can stop you from losing weight or can help you gain weight. These are websites that I haven’t checked out so I’m not going to mention any in particular. But maybe worth having a look at? X

Contentious issue.There’s an ad on TV about being fine just as you are.

I understand the issue of course.

I’m 60 weigh 9 10 which GP says is obese. I wear a size 10. I’ve a worn a 8 or 10 for years.

When full term with my son I weighed 8 stone and was 26.

Age and menopause have their impact to consider too.

Feeling is better than weighing in my humble opinion.

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley

We’re you born rude or is it a trait you have developed.?

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley

Do you think if you repeat this judgemental, insulting fat shaming often enough someone will actually see you?

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley

I don’t want to read your post carefully actually. It wasn’t aimed at me although it could be about me. I am sorry that people like me make you feel disgusted and want to use vomit emoji’s . I guess I feel the same way about rude insensitive people who feel they have carte blanche to cause humiliation and embarrassment

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley

I have not missed the point I heard you loud and clear you find obese people disgusting and use vomit emoji’s. I do not know what gives you the right to judge people so harshly. The lovely people here never do that, they help, support and encourage one another and it is the first time I have ever seen a vomit emoji used to ridicule anyone in this safe space. As people with autoimmune conditions the world judges us enough we do not need it here.

svfarmer profile image
svfarmer in reply to CecilyParsley

Well said Cecily xx

CecilyParsley profile image
CecilyParsley

No these professionals are not here in this group. It is you that are rude and insensitive. Honesty does not need to be cruel and bluntness is a another word for rudeness. My self esteem is not affected by your crass fat shaming you give yourself far too much credit. I dislike bullies in whatever guise they come in. Have you considered psychological help for your issues?

Spanielmadlady profile image
Spanielmadlady

No one likes your comments here or your 1 post for that matter as the only person who replied was you 😂As someone with a chronic illness who has hypothyroidism and takes prednisone you of all people should understand weight gain that is sometimes beyond our control .I take pred so carry steroid weight and I also walk 2 spaniels everyday but no doubt you will label me obese too.thats fine crack on because I know you belong under the nearest stone .....off you pop time to crawl back under it with your rude comments.

P.s this forum is about support and friendship which you don't appear to know anything about .you've been reported so hopefully it's 👋 tomorrow

Tiggywoos profile image
Tiggywoos

I don’t want to argue with you but it’s not funny or kind to laugh about someone who is 35 stone and snacking on junk food . They are clearly very unwell and in need of psychological and medical support .

Anyone who needs or is having excess fat removal surgery deserves huge respect for losing the weight in my eyes

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone

No I haven’t missed your point at all …..but the rest of us are saying losing weight when you have a serious health condition is not easy..,..however, nobody is suggesting anyone who puts on a couple of stones is a candidate for surgery.You introduced this subject of surgery that is really outside what started this discussion……losing a few pounds gained…not 20 stones.

MrsMarigold profile image
MrsMarigold

Hello Ophelia1. This thread got a bit confusing to me but I have a suggestion that may help you. I’ve been in and out of Physical Therapy for years and in my fifties did Pilates. One of the most important things I learned is inflammation can be released by moving your lymph. When it is not moved( even though you run) it builds up. When I move it deliberately I’m instantly transformed the next day. Gentle swimming causes your lymph to move and collect toxins along the way and presto your legs are thinner. Lie on the floor with a foam roller and gently begin at ankles rolling to your thighs. You release the lymph and make it move. Your arms and back as well. These simple exercises are on YouTube I’m sure. By moving the lymph the inflammation as well as pain is released. Best, Titters

Ophelia1 profile image
Ophelia1 in reply to MrsMarigold

Hi Titters - Thanks for this response. Lymph is an issue which interests me and I have read a lot about that. I'll definitely get to work with my foam roller. Swimming is unfortunately, a non runner for me . I am a good swimmer - as a child I swam competitively, but the thing I really hate about pools as an adult is the cold changing rooms, the initially cold water and cold generally. Even in the warmest private sports club where the changing rooms are sweltering, they don't feel hot enough when you come out of the pool and unless the pool water is unhealthily warm, you have that initial horror where your body is adapting to the cold. In fairness, I might feel this more than the norm because I have raynauds and go from hot to freezing at the drop of a hat. BRRR . All the best.

MrsMarigold profile image
MrsMarigold

I have raynauds and Erythromyalgia as well. And I’m with you 100% about public pools. I’m very fortunate to have a saltwater poolAnd I heat it. The price of it all was terrible but has helped save me. As to the foam roller I aware by it and I hope it helps you. A hood massage therapist that specializes in lymph drainage is also an idea that works. For me, an American insurance does not cover it. Maybe for you?🦋

Marva91 profile image
Marva91

I agree, it is hard to loose weight.

Look at the things you eat the most is it carbohydrates, sweet or meat this could a be contributing to weight gain.

Good on the exercise. Sometimes what helps is after you finish eatin, is ti go for a digestive walk for 30 mins. Try and not eat between meals also. Have a larger breakfast with fruits with porridge or bread nuts and seeds, and for lunch with salads with smaller portions of yiur carbs, proteins, legumes, grains etc and vitamins etc and smaller meal in the evening.

Also....Try not to snack if you feel hungry drink water or tea without sugar, if you feel hungry between those meals it is not hunger! Just drink water or diluted drink. Try eating raw and cook throughout the day also. Hope this helps :) 😀

Marva91 profile image
Marva91

I have lost 4 kg this week. Just by being on raw fruits and vegetables nuts and seeds, homemade dressing and lots of herbal teas and water when I was craving for meals. Spacing my meals for 5 hour gap. Not eating later than 7 pm and 20 mins moderate walk after each meal. Try it for 10 days and take your supplements look for fruits and veg for immune system boosting and your other symptoms. Good luck 👍

You may also like...

Tried and tried to lose weight

been struggling for a couple of years too loose weight. I used to be very active in sport until...

Losing Weight

someone may be able to advise me on weight loss, I suffer from PCOS & Lupus SLE, I have struggled...

Help!! Am I losing my mind?

referred me to dermatologist and rheumatologist. Saw rheumatologist today, and after only 5 mins,...

Need to lose weight for my big day 👰!

and I really need to lose weight without doing much physical activities because I can't force my...

Anyone can't tolerate HCQ and why?

working brain, it was like being so alert, almost a bit wired. The second thing I noticed was that...