I am currently on the "Eating for your body type" diet and I have lost 12 lbs. in 5 weeks, however, the articles I read about metabolism say that I should not decrease my caloric intake by more than 500 calories. Well, I did that in this diet, but I am stuck at 12 lbs. and I am afraid that is because of this decrease in calories. Any suggestions?

I had not heard of the diet you mention although when I do a search I find some interesting information along those lines. One site mentions five body types based on body shape (apple, pear, stick, etc.). On another site I see mention of a book that discusses 25 body types that seemed to be named after different organs (adrenal, stomach, gallbladder, gonadal, heart and so on)! A third site refers to a yoga-based approach. You are probably referring to a specific program so I am not sure what you are actually doing at this time.

The body does have ways of compensating for rapid weight loss. It is not unusual with dieting to reach a plateau even though you continue the program. If you continue to consume fewer calories than you burn, eventually weight loss will resume.

I hope you are including some exercise in your program. You may find that you are losing “inches” even if your weight is stable. Your clothes may fit a bit better and you may be trading fat for muscle.

Losing 12 pounds in 5 weeks actually seems a reason to be very proud rather than discouraged. As you may know, the biggest problem is actually not losing the weight but keeping it off. A gradual rate of weight loss suggests that you are changing your life style in a way that is more likely to help you keep the weight off in the long run.

I hope you continue with your lifestyle changes and I wish you both short-term and, most importantly, long-term success.

Dr. Joshua Rassen

-- Joshua Rassen, MD, is a board-certified internist and geriatrician in northern California. He has a private practice in geriatrics and internal medicine and is the Chief of the Division of General Internal Medicine at California Pacific Medical Center.

First published August 27, 2004
Last updated May 21, 2008
Copyright © 2004 Consumer Health Interactive