Last November 4 (2000), I weighed 241 pounds. Today, 9 or so months later, I weigh close to 160. I am extremely active - weightlifting, moderate-intensity cardio, high-intensity interval training, kickboxing, and yoga - and I look and feel really good. I also eat well, focusing on fresh vegetables and fruits, fish, and omega-3 fats.

So what's the problem? Well, for the past 2 months or so, I've been stuck at this *&^%$#@! plateau. I just can't break through 160. My goal is 140 or so, and no matter what I do, I can't seem to lose this last 20 pounds. Although I am gaining muscle, that does not explain the plateau, as my bodyfat percentage is still too high (measured with calipers - and who needs calipers when you can see the fat on my belly and upper thighs?).

This is not about vanity for me - I lost the 80 pounds because DH and I want to start a family, and having a safe and healthy pregnancy is really important to me. I do feel good that I lost the 80 pounds, and I don't want to sound like a crybaby (wah wah wah, I can't lose the last 20), but I'm at a complete loss for what to do. I've tried everything - cycling my calories down, cycling my calories up, alternating my calories cycles, short periods of interval training, long periods of moderate-intensity training, not eating before exercise, eating before exercise, not eating after 4 pm, eating less whole grains, eating more whole grains - I'm ready to shoot myself over here, I really am.

Good lord, can anyone help me? I'm completely demoralized, even as I realize that - after last Tuesday - I have no problems in this world, I am alive and so is my DH.



Thanks,
Margot

Have you talked to your doctor yet?

Congratulations on your loss - however, I think you are putting far too much emphasis on the last 20 pounds. Nothing magical about getting pregnant at 140. I delivered a beautiful baby at age 36, weighing in at 250, (me, not the baby). Sure it is healthier to be thinner, but 160 is a perfectly normal weight - unless you are 2'8" tall. Good luck.