dont know how to get back on track...

I am really feeling like I blew this whole thing. I never truly felt like a success. I only lost 80 lbs, got down to 220. I have RA, and I have been on Chronic steroids, so that was part of it. I feel that I have made many positive changes that have stuck with me. I try to only drink decaf if its available, and almost always use Splenda. I am religious with my supplements, and have either a protein shake or bar every day. I havent excercised much, partly 'cause its hard to squeeze in with 4 year old twins, and partly because I am in pain from my RA alot, its not very well controlled on my current regimen. Having said all that, I have regained almost 40 lbs. I dont want to wind up back at 300 lbs, and all of this was for nothing. It all goes right to my stomach, so none of my clothes fit. I cant stand to look at myself. I have a special needs child, and I struggle with my stress level and depression. I eat at night, mostly carbs, when I am not hungry. I have tried the 5 day pouch test, but the farthest I got is one day in, because I just cant  make it thru a day just on liquids. I dont even know where to begin. I have had issues with my blood sugar. Sometimes I wonder if this surgery is a blessing or a curse. It gave me a glimpse of the other side, but I dont know if it or I can conquer my food demons for good.  Would love some ideas, or thoughts from those *****gained and managed to take it off. What did you do?

I never regained and have been maintaining since 9 months out. But, that said, I think I have been able to do so by controlling the carbs. I tend to be a night-eater as well, though I made a deal with myself that if I eat after dinner, it has to be mostly protein. No excuses! When I don't keep that bargain with myself...pounds slowly creep back on. There is no fooling our bodies!

Honestly, the 5 day pouch test is complete crap, IMHO. Why would you want to try another diet? They don't work! The only way to get the weight off and keep it off is to fill yourself up every day with good, dense protein. Make sure you have a good mix of fats in there, too, as they are satiating and take a while to digest. Also, unsaturated fats are good for our post-op systems. Then, top it off with complex carbs...veggies, fruits, whole grains. Treats or foods made of processed carbs should be avoided and/or limited to very small amounts.

Exercise is a necessity for many. Try to take some time for a walk, or at least some yoga at home....good for stress and the body.

Just take this journey(yes, journey...there really is no finish line!) a pound at a time! Make one better choice every day. This is for life, so make it as easy and natural as possible.

I have almost regained 30 lbs and I too do not want to go back to 300 lbs.  It's scary.  I'm trying to get myself on track, too.  :(  Anyone else having the same problem?

I haven't seen you around in ages!! I would love to see you check in every Monday for weigh ins...or even just for some much needed support and understanding.

We(post-ops) are the only ones who can truly understand each other and what we struggle with. I hope to see you around more often, Angelic.