Hi Jill: I'm not an MD, but I presume that the reason you're not losing weight is METABOLIC. In other words, you're metabolism is way too efficient, so that it tries to do all that it can to conserve fat stores instead of use them for fuel.

Have you talked to other professionals about how to increase your metabolism, as opposed to just reducing calories so radically? From what I've read, there are only a few ways to increase metabolism: While Eating Food; While Exercising; and by increasing muscle. There are also some foods that do help (like spicy foods with peppers like salsa), but I think their impact is fairly minimal. I need to learn more about this as well.

I have been banded for only 2 months. I try to eat around 1000 calories per day, but I often go up to 1300 or 1500. I find it hard to keep the calories low, I do feel hungry. I'm still in the process of getting the proper fill, but I do find that restriction is different than feeling full. I only lost .5lb in the past 2 weeks, and felt a little discouraged, but reminded myself that this is a long-term lifestyle and learning process. I also eat alot of protein - and there are definitely ways to have plenty of protein with very low calories (e.g. Isopure protein drink has 40g protein for 160 calorie bottle). I do find that the more protein, the more satisfied I feel. The band is definitely not "easy", but I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that I will be much more successful with the band than I could ever be without! I anticipate that it will get easier as I really learn how to use it and my commitment grows as I lose weight. You're wise to ask the questions now as you're thinking about this huge decision. Good luck!

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Michaelann in CT
Banded 8/16/2005 :cheeky