Newbie...morbidly obese

[KilimanjaroSafaris78]

Hi Everyone. I am new here. My name is Ali,and I am 27 years old. I currently weigh 388 pounds. I have hypertension( average reading 215/120),type 2 diabetes,and high cholesterol. I went to the doctor Monday,and he was frank with me that I didn't lose weight soon, I could die or have a heart attack. He suggested gastric bypass,but I really don't want to do that. I have never really exersised or cared about my weight. What do yall suggest?

 

[michvin]

Your doctor, with all of his concerns, should be sending you to a nutritionist or dietician and then to a medically sponsored weight loss clinic. If he did not, your first step should be looking one up IMMEDIATELY and then getting advice for a personal trainer. Honestly, if you have health insurance, they should be able to get you in touch with a trainer and a nutritionist who can help. Much cheaper than surgery!

Also, something you could do yourself is get rid of any processed foods like snacks, soda (even that with artificial sweetener), chips, candy and do not go to any type of fast food place at all. Even if you start by just switching over to just drinking water you will drop the amount of calories you consume. PLus, you have to get exercise, but given your medical conditions, it really should be supervised. The high colesterol is what you are eating, I would think, plus the lack of exercise. I'm not a fan of red meat or anything white (white flour, white potatoes, white rice). Its empty calories and only makes you want more. High fiber foods like brown pasta, brown bread, fish, chicken,salads, veggies and fruit like apples and pears are staples in our house. I only cook with olive oil..bake with it too. Lowfat and fat-free dairy. You are going to have to make a lifestyle change for your life...not just to lose wieght but to LIVE...even after you lose weight. I wish you well and good luck.

 

[YangYang]

I would strongly recommend that you get some support, either from a nutrionist or some weight loss program. I consider myself an intelligent person and I certainly knew what I should be doing but I could not have lost weight without the help of Weight Watchers. It helped me change my lifestyle. I have lost the weight but more importantly, I have changed my eating habits so I don't think I will ever gain the weight back. I couldn't have done that without the information I received from WW as well as the support from the other members. I weighed 311.2 pounds in February 2003 and wore a size 26. I currently weigh 150 pounds and wear a size 6. And just to complete the picture, I am 41 years old so I was facing the age issue as well. My only regret is that I didn't do it sooner. I have lost so many years of my life - don't make the same mistake I did!

 

[goodeats]

Start changing one thing at a time. That way the change isn't so abrupt, you'll be more likely to stick with it for the long haul.

Some ideas you can start introducing -
1) Stop eating after a certain time (like 7:00) depending on when you have dinner
2) Start drinking water instead of other liquids
3) Start breaking up your meals so you are eating small portions through out the day (5 or 6 mini-meals)
4) More veggies, less 'junk'
5) Start walking 10 minutes at a time, building up to a fitness 'routine'


But I agree that going to a nutritionist wouldn't be the worst idea. Even getting some books from the library is a good start. I personally like the Nutrition for Dummies one.

 

[catherine]

Hi and welcome to WISH!

I agree with the other posters about using some type of support network. I'm doing WW's and I have to say I love it! It now feels like a way of life for me. There are lots of challenges on this board and I think that it will help you to sign up for a couple of these. There's a challenge to lose 5 pounds a month which helps me because it breaks down the weight loss challenge into small manageable challenges, which for me doesn't seem as overwhelming. There is a thread for WISHers who are over 300 pounds and I bet if you have a look at that you will find some good advice. I really WISH you well on your weight loss journey. The first step on the path is always the most difficult! You can do this!

 

[pearlieq]

Hi Ali!

I've been in a situation similar to yours (my highest weight was 385, though mercifully I do not have the health problems you do).

The first thing I would say is that for all the "I should lose weight" and "I'm going to die if I don't lose weight", if you attempt to do so before YOU want to do it, for reasons that are important to YOU, you're just going to be caught up a cycle of frustration and self-loathing. Never try to lose weight just because someone said you should. You can't make yourself do something you don't want to do.

The thing about gastric bypass is that it's not a cure-all. It's hard on your body and has very serious risks and side effects. The most important factor to consider, though, is that it's pretty easy to gain the weight all back, even after the surgery. If you have the surgery to correct a physical problem but don't address the behavioral or emotional problems you may have, you will wind up overweight again very quickly.

What I've learned over the last several month is that this is a process of trial and error. Some things have worked for me, most have not. I try new things all the time and they usually fail. I'm motivated to keep trying though.

Personally, I reject a lot of the artifical constraints on eating (no eating after a certain time, only eat a certain type of food, etc.). I prefer a more natural, intuitive approach. Even if I don't lose weight, I'm learning to listen to and trust my body and I'm a happier person for it.

I would encourage you to see a nutritionist if you feel you don't know much about nutrition, but I would caution you to listen with a critical ear. Sometimes nutritionists push a "one size fits all" method and expect you to try to fit yourself into it, instead of working with you to figure out what is the best plan for YOU. Try a few people until you find a good fit.

Best of luck to you. There's lots of information and support here.

 

[Tiger Lily 03]

Welcome to WISH!

You have found the Best place to be. I agree with all that has been posted before me.

There are many opportunities here on WISH to help you go through your transformation.

Please start now. Do this for you. You can do it. I am sure it has taken a long tiime to get to where you are today, and it will take time to turn it around, but you can do it!

 

[KilimanjaroSafaris78]

Thanks everyone. I want to be healthy. I want to live to be 80 years old at least. Currently, I just don't konw what to do. I love food,but want to lose weight. Today I ate my normal(eek):
Breakfast:3 krispy kreme donuts,2 biscuits,home-fried potatoes,western omlet,chocolate shake
snack:2 brownies
lunch: 2 big macs,2 large fries,2 shakes
snack:2 slices chocolate cake
dinner:8 slices cheese pizza,4 breadsticks,2 cans coke
snack: 3 more donuts,2 more cokes
I know I am killing myself eating that way,but I just don't know where to go. my doctor was told me that I was fat,I needed to change my habits,or I would die and that was it. He didn't recommend anything for me. Should I find another doctor to go to help me lose weight? I don't exersise,and never have. I work out of my home,and get winded,tired very easily.

 

[NCRedding]

Kilamanjarosafaris78: Welcome to the WISH. It is so easy for me to tell you what to do, but difficult for me to follow my own advice.

As to the exercise: start small--walk in place during commercials, or while you are talking on the phone. Walk five minutes from your home, then turn around and come back, Gradually add more exercise.

Start switching from sodas to water. I make myself drink water first thing in the morning, before I allow myself a Diet drink.

Realize that you are a wonderful unique person who deserves to live a long life. Try to figure out why you eat the way you do==is it from habit, or from pain. because it is easy? What are your triggers--the foods that make you binge.

If WW is too expensive or unavailable in your area, look for a TOPS organization--they are very low cost, yet provide a weekly weigh-in. The most successful programs for loss are ones that combine exercise, support and a personally designed food plan--only you know what will work with you.

Atkins is useful for dropping lots of weight quickly--which might motivate you to exercise more. So much of what you ate today has very little nutritional value--especially in comparison with the calories. Veggies are missing from your diet--they are a great way to add fiber (which is also lacking from your diet) and nutrients with low calories.

Good luck with your new lifestyle. You deserve a full life.

 

[KilimanjaroSafaris78]

Thanks everyone.

 

[catherine]

Please do this for yourself, you are a worthy person and deserve to be all that you can be! If you doctor is not willing to be supportive and helpful then find someone who will be there for you! I know that you can do this. You don't have to change everything all at once, start with small changes and build up. Challenge youself to have a healthy breakfast, and drink water instead of the soda and shakes. Please have faith in yourself. We are all here for you, to give you the support that you need, so post often!

 

[Dislifer]

I can relate to your situation. Although I want to lose weight more than anything, I just can't seem to stay on a diet. I equate it to being an alcoholic! Really.
I am worried about fitting on some of the rides at Disney. I heard I should be worried about Cirque du Soleil and Body Wars. I have seen the web site which discusses this problem (allears.net...WDW at large), but they don't mention anything about these two rides. How about Soarin??? Does anyone know????
I think people treat you terrible when you are overweight and although this hurts me, I still can't seem to change my ways! (weighs...

 

[KilimanjaroSafaris78]

Well, after doing some research....I decided to call up a clinc in my area called Doctor's and Nurses Weight loss clinic of bariatic medicine. I have an appointment for 12:30 Monday to meet with the chief doctor. The receptionist said that they will perform a complete examination before I will be paired with a nutrionist and trainer. I will be weighed,have my height checked,blood pressure measured,have a complete bloodwork done,compelete urine analysis,pulmonary function test,and stress test.What is a stress test anyway? I am ready to begin my journey to a healthier me! Today, I still ate my normal:
Breakfast:
2 sausage links,2 biscuits,3 fried eggs,3 waffles,2 glasses chocolate milk
Snack: 1 brownie,1 coke
Lunch: 5 slices pizza,3 breadsticks,1 dr. pepper
Snack: a dish of vanilla ice cream
Dinner: 3 pieces fried chicken,fried okra,apple fritters,mashed potatoes,sweet tea
dessert: 3 slices apple pie
And,no I did not exersise today either....sigh

 

[heatherfeather24]

Kilamanjaro --

Just wanted to pop in to say "kudos" to you for taking steps to take control of your health. As you work forward, please remember that this is a long, SLOW journey. It's easy to get discouraged, but it's so important. Please always remember that you are WORTH the effort.

I hope you find this bunch of disers to be as supportive and helpful as I have.

Good luck!
HF24

 

[KilimanjaroSafaris78]

I got to the weight loss clinic at 12:15 today. I filled out alot of papers,and was called back at 12:30pm. I was first weighed,and found out I have gained 2 pounds since last Monday! I am now 390.5 pounds,and 5'5". I have a BMI of 68.2 and I have a body composition of 68% fat. My average blood pressure reading today was 278/145(highest reading ever). My cholesterol was 395 Total/375 LDL(bad cholesterol) and 20 HDL). After that, I had a pulmonary function test. The results were that my pulmonary function is average. Then, I had the cardiac stress test. The technican put EKG discs on me,and an automatic blood pressure monitor. He started off the treadmill at a low speed and gradually increased it. The results of this test showed my doctor the limits that need to be made on my exersise,and allowed him to lay out a good plan for me.

Then, I went down the hall to meet with a nutritionist. She layed out a meal plan for me for the next two weeks,and gave me a grocery lsit,and recipes to make the meals.

Then I went to the training room for my first workout. Because of my health, I have to work out wearing a heart monitor,EKG discs,pulse monitor,and automatic BP monitor. Today I did a 5- minute warm-up incorporating various stretches,walking,and jogging. Then I worked 5 minutes on the treadmill at a low-speed and incline. Then, I worked on the stairmaster for 5 minutes. Then, I worked on the torso track for 5 minutes. Then I did a 10-minute Taebo tape with my trainer. Finally, I had a 5 minute cool-down. I will go to the weight loss clinic 5 days a week with weigh-ins on fridays.

I ate the following today:
B-Frisco breakfast sandwich from hardee's
8 oz. orange juice
L-6 inch turkey,lettuce,tomato,red onion,vinegar(1 tsp),oil(1 tsp),pepper on wheat bread from Subway.
1 bag(small) of lay's baked potato chips
12 oz bottle of water
D-1 baked chicken breast
1 baked potato(plain)
1/2 cup broccoli florets
1/2 florida grapefruit(sweetened with splenda)
12 oz. water
Dessert- 6 strawberries(plain)

 

[LittleMissMickey]

WOW! It sounds like they really got you started on something good! I am proud of you for jumping in with both feet. Keep up your great work!!

If you ever feel discouraged or uncertain of your ability, just stop back by here on the WISH boards. We will do our best to cheer you on on your journey.

Congratulations on your big step!! I can't wait to hear more!
Ashley

 

[heatherfeather24]

WOW! It sounds like they really got you started on something good! I am proud of you for jumping in with both feet. Keep up your great work!!

If you ever feel discouraged or uncertain of your ability, just stop back by here on the WISH boards. We will do our best to cheer you on on your journey.

Congratulations on your big step!! I can't wait to hear more!
Ashley

DITTO! And remember . . . small goals. Facing the truth about your health and future is a huge step in its own right. Congratulations.

 

[MelanieC]

Hi there and welcome to WISH!

I must say that I am very proud of you for making the step to go to the nutritionalist and trainer at the center. It sounds like you had an excellent day there. Keep up the great work. Take it one day at a time and remember that you can do this. You are worth it.

 

[bigsis1970]

I just wanted to say -- Good luck You go Girl !!!!

 

[KilimanjaroSafaris78]

Today's eats were:
B- whole wheat bagel(plain)
1 pear
1 glass apple juice
L- Sharma wrap(lamb,lettuce,tomato,onion,taziki sauce)
1/2 cup lentil salad
bottle water
D- 1 baked salmon filet
1/2 cup spinach
1/2 cup carrots
1 can diet coke
D-
6 cherries

Exersise-same as yesterday.