More than halfway there...

Today marks 11 weeks since my gastric bypass surgery. I really can't believe it's been that long. It seems like it was just last week that I was coming home from the hospital.

In those 11 weeks, I have lost a total of 61 pounds! I feel and look like a new person. I've gone down 4-5 sizes -- depending on the outfit.

Check out the pictures of my progress below:

I've been doing fine with my food intake and have had only two incidents of dumping (throwing up) since my endoscopy. I think both times were the result of eating too quickly and probably not chewing my food enough. Barix tells you to chew slowly and take three minutes in between each bite. That's a little unrealistic, but I do try to take my time.

I have also been focusing on my exercise. I joined the YMCA about a month and a half ago and I've been working out there as often as I can. Some weeks are more difficult than others, but I do try to do at least 30 minutes on my treadmill in the basement if I can't get to the YMCA. I'm starting to notice more definition in my arms and legs, but I still have a ways to go.

My biggest challenge right now is getting all of my protein in. I'm supposed to be getting 70 grams of protein/day. Unfortunately, I don't get it all in most days. Part of the problem is that I'm just not hungry in the afternoons and evenings. I eat a healthy breakfast (usually corn flakes, 1% milk, and sliced banana). But, come lunchtime, I just don't have an appetite. Dinner is worse. I try to supplement in between with snacks during the day (peanuts, crackers, fruit, etc.).

Because of the lack of protein and as a result of the surgery, I have started to lose my hair. This started about two weeks ago, and it has gotten really bad. I have noticed that my hair is really thin now. Even my husband noticed it last night. Nobody else has, but I fear that if it continues much longer, it will be REALLY noticeable. Hair loss is a common side effect after gastric bypass surgery, but I think my hair loss is heightened because of the problems I was having before my endoscopy. I'll hang in there, and hopefully it won't get much worse!

All in all, things are going well and I feel good. Hopefully, each day will get better and better...

Until next time, peace out!