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How much change in activity will lead to weight loss? Or should I be concerned?

So I've read that 5% to 10% unexplained weight loss in a year is a concern. I've lost 11 pounds (started at 200) since April. I've not changed my diet at all. I've been working on a house remodel though, but it was only on weekends to start with and then a week or two off work here and there. I normally sit at a desk for work so working on a house is more activity than I normally get, but one day a week doesn't seem like enough to lose 11 pounds. Should I be concerned? Or is my metabolism just changing by doing more activity?
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363281 tn?1643235611
Hello~I am thinking that maybe due to being more active, your metabolism is also starting to work better. Also, in some folks, stress can cause weight loss, while in others, weight gain. Maybe doing some of this remodeling has caused a wee bit of stress and your body is reacting.

I won't worry too much, just keep an eye on it, and if you keep loosing and experience any symptoms that are not "normal" for you, then see your physician.
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Avatar universal
Hi tball,

I read your question with interest because I have the same problem. I have lost 20lbs. since June last year. It took only 4 months to lose this amount and since Oct. it has stabilized somewhat. I started off at 144lbs. and am now 124lbs. Like you I was very worried and terrified when I read up on unintentional weight loss and cachexia etc. It is definitely not normal to lose so much weight in a short period of time. As for me, I had lost my appetite (which is a concern in itself) but for someone who eats well I would say that this is something that really needs to be investigated.

As you have probably read on Google, when one loses so much weight it is usual attributed to cancer (although there are many other reasons) so, suspecting Cancer, my doc. ordered many tests, MRIs and Cat Scans. I came through all of these without incident, so am feeling better in that respect but still cannot face or even think about food. This is anorexia, I know, but why?

The reason I am telling you all this about myself is that I do think it is serious, esp. because you are eating well, and really urge you to get checked out by your doc, and/or get a second opinion. If you need all these tests it is better than not knowing. I hope things work out for you and that you will update us on here. All the best.
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2 Comments
You lost 14% in 4 months, but tball only lost 5% in 9 months.
Yes, I realize it is much worse and very serious. I just wish I knew what is causing it. Having had all those tests, though, I am willing to just forget it. Perhaps I should have said that I had Lithium poisoning in June last year and that's when the weight began to fall off. I have told several docs about this but they just shake their heads. However, one P.A. said the Lithium poisoning obviously attacked all my inner organs.
Avatar universal
Not a big deal at all if you are living a healthy lifestyle, losing excess fat (instead of muscle) and eating right. It is so small that any of the numerous factors that determine weight could be the reason, but you would have to talk it over with doc if you think you should be weighing 200. You can calculate your BMI online, so that coupled with a side view in the mirror with your shirt and pants  off will give you a ballpark idea if the weight loss was a good thing.
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