[AAB123]

Hi All,

I'm newbie and have already found so many helpful tips and inspiring stories here--so thanks! I just started getting on track about 4-5 weeks ago and have lost about 17 lbs. so far, which is very exciting! I'm not new to the weight loss struggle, so I totally understand that you lose a lot in the beginning and then the amount of loss diminishes with time. However, I think I've hit my first plateau--I havent lost anything at all for about 6 days, which is frustrating.

Unfortunately, I have pretty much set routine when it comes to going to work and gym time so I can't really change the time that I go to the gym. I've been going to the gym about 4 to 5 days each week since I started and I've been eating really well. Any ideas on how to get over the plateau? If I just keep doing what I'm doing, how long do you think it will take to start seeing results again? How did you get over your plateau?

[Meg]

Don't worry, six days isn't a plateau.

You've lost a huge amount of weight so far and you're body is probably just trying to adapt to such a big weight loss in such a short time. And once we get past the first few weeks, weight often comes off in chunks, with no loss for a while, then a big drop on the scale.

The secret is patience and staying 100% on plan! It's hard to say when you'll see the scale move because we're all different, but I wouldn't think about calling it a plateau unless you're completely on plan for three or four weeks and nothing changes.

In the meantime, measure success in ways other than the scale. Take your measurements, try on pants that were too small, take photos, and set some fitness related goals. There will be plenty of time in your journey with nothing happening on the scale but amazing things will still be happening inside your body!

Keep up the good work -- you're doing great!

[Violin Jenn]

Best advice I can give is...

1. review your food journal for anything out the norm, high in sodium etc.

2. try changing up your workouts and diet...

3. be patient. The body sometimes says "whoa, let's just slow down a bit"

4. For me a plateau, most often means I need to look at what is going on in my head and my heart. Am I afraid of what the changes may bring? etc.

[beerab]

One week isn't really a plateau- just keep doing what you are doing- if a few weeks passes and not one pound drops, then re-evaluate. 17 lbs in 5 weeks is just over 3 lbs a week, that's very good