Hi all

I was wondering what other people's experiences have been with the diet/exercise/weight area. After I became ill, my weight increased substantially, especially around my stomach area (where I never would put weight on before). I gained the weight so quickly that I ended up with stretch marks all over my body. I had a blood test done as well & thyroid, cholesterol, blood sugar etc were all OK.

I saw a dietician, who put me on a low GI diet, and I lost a bit of weight without exercising. Because of my fatigue, I found exercising quite difficult, as I couldn't exercise long enough to actually have an impact on my weight. And after only a couple of attempts at exercising, I would get sick again. But I managed to keep my weight steady for almost 2 years.

This past year, I have gained all the weight back, and more. I don't know what to do anymore - my diet is the same (hardly any sugar or 'bad' carbs). It's all gone back on my stomach, and it is so uncomfortable. Weird thing is - I've been more physically mobile as well, as I think my symptoms are slowly improving.

Anyone have any tips on how to lose the weight around this area? Has anyone attempted any exercises which help you lose weight, but don't exacerbate the chronic fatigue symptoms?

Thanks.

I have similar weight issues and a horrendous appetite! I take Adderrall to stay awake and that suppresses my appetite some. I am not really sure what to say, I just wanted you to know I sympathize with you!

Hi Stacey, Your low GI diet is a good first step. I had luck with trying to take no calories from liquids, i.e. instead of apple juice, have an apple. Drink more water than you think you can stand. Avoid diet drinks and carbonated drinks. Weight-bearing exercise would help... the more muscle you have, the more calories you can burn. Check out Dr. Nicolas Perricone on PBS... he talks a lot about foods with anti-inflammatory properties. Good luck.