Post-diet impacts

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Well, it's been a month of "maintenance", and things are going well.

While I didn't last long on the Bernstein-sanctioned program approach - opting instead for my own Portion.And.Calorie.Control method - I am staying the course at 140.

I must say that I do need to get back to the meal tracking and CalorieCount.com data inputting, to make sure I stay on track.

As I'm reflecting on the diet though, and meeting up with others here in Ottawa who have also done the program, I've noted a few things.

Decreased Potassium

I've heard from some that they are experiencing some ongoing "cold" sensations. Cold hands and feet. Perhaps due to the decreased potassium intake, one lady theorizes. I can't say that I noticed that until today. My hands are little ice cubes, and I'm dressed quite warmly. No signs of a cold coming on either...strange...

Cramping

What I have experienced is daily foot and leg cramping, which I attribute to the decreasing of potassium. I did notice this as soon as I began decreasing the potassium...or was it from the cessation in the B Vitamin injections? Not sure....

Delayed Period

I also seem to have "lost" a period last month. While I rather enjoy not having the monthly disruption, it was a little unnerving. Plus, when it did return, it came with a cramping and flow vengeance. Yikes! Hopefully this will stabilize again.

Hair Loss

Now, one thing that I was warned about (by my coiffeuse who was on Bernstein 10 years ago) was that I would experience hair thinning. This is due to the rapid body/physical changes. Interesting that the clinic doesn't advise patients of this possible side effect. Not that it would have deterred me - the results are worth some new hair growth.

While I didn't think it would happen, it does seem to be. Each morning I'm losing what I feel is a lot of hair in the shower, with some additional throughout the day. the remedy? I've been advised to use Nioxiderm treatment which stimulated follicle and hair growth. A 30-day daily treatment to prevent more loss and stimulate growth. We'll see if it works.

Comments

Anonymous said…
Hi Helen
Curious where you buy Nioxiderm??
November 12, 2009 at 2:19 PM
Unknown said…
Helen! November post soon :) and 2 in December to get us through Christmas :P
Are you drinking wine yet?
November 19, 2009 at 10:37 PM
Ten Gone said…
Congratulations on your weight loss!! A friend of mine is currently on Dr. Bernstein and she's lost about 20 lbs so far. I found your blog because I was curious about the program and was Googling about it. Keep up the great work and good luck with your maintenance :)
November 29, 2009 at 10:39 AM
Roxanne said…
Hi Helen,

I have been following you blog, I am on the program and I am very curious to know how things are going for you?
December 6, 2009 at 10:19 PM
Kate said…
Dear Helen, I can't stop looking at your amazing photo collage! You are awesome! I'm currently doing all my best to lose weight Your story inspires me a lot! Thank you!
August 24, 2018 at 6:50 AM
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