Hello, I'm new to this--started today.  What is an oil spill?  It sounds disgusting.  I'm worried that it will happen while I'm at work.  Is it like water breaking before you give birth?  Is there any warning before it happens?  Will there be time to get to the bathroom?  Is there an oder?

Hi,

From my personal experience, I have not had any problems...  Yes, I've had oily BMs, but nothing that bad...Obviously, if you have alot of fat in one meal, it will happen... Once, I had to 'rush' to the bathroom, (and I made it in time) but it was only because I didn't watch my fat intake...If you stick to the plan, you'll be fine...

I just posted this in a seperate post - but I'll put it here for you to read :)

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OK ... seems most every newbie is scared of having an "oil spill" or the infamous TE's.

Just wanted to let you all know (even though this post will be buried somewhere within days) that there IS a difference between having the "oil spill" and having a TE happen.

"Some folks" will experience the "oil spill" possibly a few weeks after starting the Alli program (it doesn't affect everyone).  You think you have to pass gas when WHOA next thing you know you're sitting in a greasy mess (sounds wonderful, doesn't it).  Yep - been there done that - ruined my heated mattress pad because of it (got it out of the sheet though).  Woke up one Saturday morning, sat on the edge of the bed, stretched and well ... passed gas.  It just didn't feel right - stood up and the edge of my bed was a MESS.  I went into the bathroom immediately, sat on the throne and continued with my "oil spill".  That was the ONLY time this has ever happnened to me and that was enough.  An explanation - just the fats leaving my body.

OK ... a TE.  I'm on the 1800/60 program (1800 calories / 60 grams a day).  Let's say for breakfast I'd have fried eggs, LOTS of bacon, gravy, biscuits (oy vey - I'm hungry now), well let's just say - I'd have one heck of a buffet breakfast.  Within 24/72 hours later - I'd have severe stomach cramps followed by severe BM's.  Strangely enough - this also doesn't happen to everyone but for the most part, if you eat WAY to many fat grams in one meal and take your pill - be prepared to pay the price !!

SOOO ... that's it in a nut shell.  There truly is a difference between an "oil spill" and a TE.

Sher/Ohio

Thank you for your interest in the alli program and your involvement in the community message board. alli is different because it is the only FDA-approved OTC weight loss aid. It also works in the digestive tract, does not enter the bloodstream or interact with your heart or brain. You may be experiencing your noted effects as your body adjusts to a reduced-calorie diet or increased physical activity. Make sure to eat your recommended allowance of calories throughout the day, stay hydrated and increase your physically activity level gradually. If effects continue, please see your healthcare professional.

so far, so good.  This is only my third day though. Thank you for your responses.

Elaine