Weight gain on Gleevec-Lynne A

January 23, 2006

Hi Lynn!

I have also had alot of weight gain since being dx'd and put on

Gleevec.

I think a big part of it was due to inactivity and fatigue,

especially in the beginning. Also, I learned that I was a stress

eater. Getting a CML diagnosis causes stress, and stress creates

weight gain.

So, for me, after 2 years of being on Gleevec, I had a 40 lb weight

gain! I also have edema in my extremities for which I am on 40 mg

Lasix, but it doesn't always do the trick. I have to take it

everyday. I even eat low salt, but it does not eliminate my need for

Lasix.

So, this New Years Eve, I made a vow to get this weight off, once and

for all! I didn't use any weird quick fix. I have focused on eating

super healthy, balanced, low portion, more often foods. Such as

salmon, chicken breasts, tuna, lean meat, egg whites, veggies, some

fruits, and whole grains, like oatmeal, kashi, skim milk, lowfat

cottage cheese, yogurts, and sugar free jello for my sweet tooth.

I have also been using my treadmill everyday, twice a day. Break up

your workout if you can't do alot of time in the beginning. It

doesn't matter, as long as you put in the time. In the beginning of

Jan, I was only able to walk a 1 1/2 miles. It was pathetic! lol

Yesterday, I walked 4 miles, and I have gained much more stamina in a

short amount of time. I still have days that I feel sluggish. Some

days are better than others, but I don't beat myself up about it

anymore. It is what it is, and I have to remind myself to go easier

those days. I still have CML.

I have lost 10 lbs since Jan 3. I didn't think my scale could move

down on Gleevec, but since pushing hard to rev up my metabolism, it's

working! My pants are getting loose! It's a great feeling! You can

do it... just push, push, push! We are fighters and we are strong!

Best of luck!

Lynn (Snickersunny)

Dx'd 12/03

400 mg Gleevec

PCRU

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