To be really frustrated

[fat13]

Since January 1 I’ve worked really hard at losing weight, going from 17 and a half stone to just under 13 (12’12)

I’m still obese and I still look it. And the weight loss has stopped and it’s really disheartening.

I have 800 calories a day, and I do a lot of walking. Is there anything else I can do to kick start things again?

This just happens in weight loss. Keep going, wait a few weeks and it'll plummet again. Weight loss isn't consistent and it's infuriating but if you have a calorie deficit then it'll come off soon. Just stick with it. You could do exactly the same thing and one week you'd lose 2kg and one week lose nothing at all - for apparently no reason. You've lost a lot so far so you're doing the right thing - just keep going! Good luck

Yes agree. The only other thing you could do is start adding in small weights and build a little muscle. Developing a bit of muscle will mean you burn off more calories all day every day as you go about your general living activities ie increases metabolism.

I get tired of saying this on here & posters sharing mad diets but ... 800 calories is too low

Yes, you'll lose weight.

No, it's not healthy.

For women especially you are almost definitely lacking in nutrients that are essential for well-being, especially as we grow older.

Walking is fine but won't build muscle mass, also essential for long-term health, and post menopause women lose significant amounts of muscle mass.

What I would recommend is an approved dietician to provide a higher calorie diet, protein-rich for muscle building & satiety, and finding some exercise that includes high-intensity cardio work & some core / weights input.

From past experience this advice will be ignored & posters will say diet matters more than exercise (true but exercise is so important for metabolic rate & muscle building plus bone density) and suggest even more diet limitations.

You've done fantastic! Are you taking photos to document how far you've come? January was only 5 months ago, I know you're feeling impatient but be proud of what you've achieved. You must have dropped a few clothing sizes? The rest will come off in time.

You don't need to starve yourself with 800 calories a day either! You just need a calorie deficit between what you're taking in and what you're using. Its far better to lose slowly with regards to loose skin etc.