pkgardner's Journal, 03 September 2011

It's a very fast start. In fact, extremely fast. It's not unusual to lose 8-9 pounds in the first couple of weeks, and then settle down to a slower rate, with occasional spurts later. that's because your initial loss is water. Twenty pounds seems a bit fast for me. The only time I lost at that rate -- 22 pounds in a one month period -- I was recovering from major surgery. I agree that you might have cause to celebrate, but you might also be losing quickly for reasons that aren't healthy. So it might be advisable to consult your physician to make sure that your weight loss is not being sped up by an underlying problem. I don't want to alarm you, but it is worth checking to be sure that everything is okay since you're going down at *twice* the speed I'd consider both fast and healthy. 

I agree that losing that much weight in a month when beginning a new regime is highly unusual, but I wouldn't be alarmed unless you continue to lose at this rate. I expect your weight loss to slow down in the future. You seem to be getting adequate nourishment. If you do continue losing at this rate, I agree with Fledgist - check with your physician! {{{HUGS}}} 

Thanks for the comments from both of you. I have pushed it extremely hard this past month. I didn't expect to drop 20 lbs, but it happened, so I am pleased. I know the weight loss will steady out quite a bit now, because I can't keep pushing myself this hard. I'm tired of being so hungry, even though the foods I've been eating have been very healthy and I've averaged between 1500 and 1800 calories daily. I think a trip to the physician is a good call, regardless. I just hate going to any doctor for anything these days. However, it would be advisable to be monitored throughout this process. The first goal I set for myself was to lose 25 lbs by Sept. 25 (which is my birthday). I believe I'll be able to make that! Thanks again for your advice.