AboutTodd Bublitz, RCEP Expertise I can answer questions on Cholesterol & Lipids. I can explain how diet can and cannot improve your cholesterol & triglyceride levels.
Experience I have 17 years experience in cardiovascular disease prevention, rehabilitation and education. Researcher in cardiovascular exercise, cardiac function and cardiac testing. I developed and maintain Lipid-Clinic.com
Also run Nuclear Cardiology Research Organizations National Lipid Association
American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association
American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
Question I'm sure you've heard this all before. I have been on a binge for the last month (my Grandfather is dying of Alzheimer's disease, and it's the hardest thing ever to watch...especially with my mother suffering watching him pass and everything), but I have harmed myself in the process as well - I have gained 10 pounds. I am 5'2", and 19 years old, so 10 pounds is fairly significant (and noticeable) on my frame. I need to get my life back on track. How long does 10 pounds take to lose, and will I be able to break this cycle? Does binge-gained weight typically take a longer or shorter period of time to lose than regular weight loss once the normal diet is adapted again? The bingeing has made me feel awful, I have gone up two whole clothing sizes, and have reverted to wearing sweat-suits all of the time. Please help me gain my body back! I was a healthy size 3, and am now a 7. I know that is not HUGE, but I was 115 pounds and am now around 127...and very very embarassed. Thank you so much for your help, it means more than you know.
Answer Shannon,
I’m very sorry to hear about your Grandfather. It must be a very difficult thing for all of you to go through.
“How long does 10 pounds take to lose?” – It depends on how much you modify your diet and exercise habits. It could take two months, it could take a year. There is no single or correct answer.
“Will I be able to break this cycle?” – Sure. It sounds like this has been a temporary departure from your normal diet. All you have to do is go back to your “old” diet. It is all up to you, you can break the cycle if you try.
“Does binge-gained weight typically take a longer or shorter period of time to lose than regular weight loss once the normal diet is adapted again?” – Losing weight is all about making changes to your diet (and exercise) habits – eating & drinking fewer calories and getting more active. People who are deeply entrenched in their current, “weight-gaining” diet will have a harder time changing. If your current diet has only lasted a month, it should be relatively easy for you to make changes. The more you stick with your changes, the faster the weight should be lost.
You do have the great advantage of being young. The younger you are, the higher your metabolism tends to be. Once we pass our mid-20’s and reach our 30’s, extra weight is much more difficult to get rid of…trust me.
