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How do you safely lose weight 6 months+ post autologous stem cell transplant?

A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Crestview, FL
March 23
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A MyMyelomaTeam Member

I went from 145 to 130 after my 06/24 SCT/BMT. Still have about 4 lbs. to go. I started doing light weights and pushups about two months post-SCT/BMT. The melphalan was the culprit. In addition to ground zero immune system, it kills any semblance of muscle tone you have. It's a very tough road to hoe to get back to pre-SCT/BMT normalcy.

March 23
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

In my case, I lost weight right after my Bone Marrow Transplant, and I’m continuing to lose weight. 8 years ago I weighed 170 lbs, prior to my transplant, and I was muscular, working out, lifting weights, swimming etc. Now I weigh 135 lbs, and lost muscle all over my body. The cancerous plasma cells are all proteins. Those are destroyed by the treatment, and some healthy ones also. Muscle is made from proteins. Your body can only produce so many healthy plasma cells.

March 23
MyMyelomaTeam

How can you safely lose weight more than 6 months after an autologous stem cell transplant?

At this stage, your immune system is likely recovering well, though full recovery can take six months to a year. Before starting any weight loss plan, it's important to follow up with your oncologist to make sure it's safe for you Show Full Answer

How can you safely lose weight more than 6 months after an autologous stem cell transplant?

At this stage, your immune system is likely recovering well, though full recovery can take six months to a year. Before starting any weight loss plan, it's important to follow up with your oncologist to make sure it's safe for you and to rule out any underlying issues.

Here are some approaches that may help:

* Pay attention to the quality of food you eat, not just calories - focus on proper nutrition
* Watch your carbohydrate intake, especially sweets
* Eat healthy snacks to curb cravings
* Find a meal schedule that works for you and stick to it
* Drink plenty of water
* Watch your salt intake to help with any water retention

Exercise is particularly beneficial as it helps rebuild muscle and can improve overall health. Talk with your cancer care team about exercises that work for you, such as walking or swimming.

Some weight gain after transplant may be related to water retention or medications like steroids. Your doctor can help determine what's causing your weight changes and refer you to a dietitian or nutritionist for personalized guidance.

March 23

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