I've gone from a size 12/14 to a size 8 , more worrying is I've lost so much muscle so have little strength, how can I build up my muscles?
I do chair yoga which helps with the muscle tone and drink a glass a day of fruit juice along with a scoop full of whey stirred in. It tastes really good and I know it helps boost my weight. I gained 6 pounds in 4 months between doctor visits and I was so pleased. Still way down from my former self and have shrunk 2 inches too but I am 80 now so think I am doing pretty good. Thank God I still sleep like a rock on one pillow, usually through the night. I know this makes a huge difference in my days and my mood.
Muscle needs protein to grow or maintain. Make sure you are getting enough protein in your diet. I too lost weight and muscle when I was diagnosed, but I needed to lose so it was welcomed. Exercise a little to help with muscle tone and growth. Eggs, meat, protein smoothies will help. Small weights for arm exercises which can be done sitting or standing help. Exercise can build/maintain muscle. Do you have any exercise equipment you can use at home? I had rehab for awhile but they release you when you get better so now I need to do something at home too.
Exercise, using free weights. Talk with your doc about beginning a daily exercise program where you work out with weights daily to build muscle. Beverlee's right, too, nutrition is very important and if you're not eating enough or properly, you won't make much progress. Seeing a nutritionist is a good idea.
My husband goes to rehab 3xs a week.
What is your diet like? You may need to get some nutritional supplements. Boost or Ensure there are good nutrition bars also. You have to the right food for your body to have and retain muscle mass. When you are sure your nutrition is right. Then start slowly working out. Some excellent videos on You Tube and Goggle. Some they do sitting in a chair. You can find what level that suits you