I'm kind of the opposite but it's because of a choice I made. I can maybe get 3/4 cup of food in now. It's rare I feel hungry or want to eat. Normally it's me going egads headache oh yeah when did I eat last or eating on a schedule. But I wanted to ask some of you who feel you are intaking too much and/or gaining-are you having any carbonation. Remember chemistry class, gas will stretch whatever you put it in. So after having seen my brother in law drink beer and begin to eat more and more I never touch carbonation. The few times I have tried to have even a sip it hurts and I feel all gassy. I'm also curious about my recent no-no find. My body has been out of whack for close to 2 years so my energy level is nil and new job and 150 mile daily commute and I've tried a time or two the little energy shot drinks. Some I am okay on, have 2 defizz them a bit first but others I get almost like dumping, heart races, I turn bright pink/red all over, I sweat and panic. Then usually 10 minutes later I am okay. Especially seemed to do it with the 6 hr one that comes in purple, blue or orange bottles. The sunset color one called 5 hour I've had and was fine. rae

My surgery was not "typical." I had extreme complications and was hospitalized 4 months and now live with some deficits due to oxygen deprivation. Anyway, I didn't go through the "channels" or normal protocols that most do following surgery. I didn't experience the all liquids, the soft foods, and so forth. I don't know what that is like. I've never been to a support group. I get my information from here and from friends that have also had surgery. I started at 320 pounds and lost down to 205 pounds. I'm now at about 220 to 225. I never reached my original goal weight but am elated that I've kept close to 100 pounds off for almost 6 years. I believe that I can eat a lot more than what most of you have stated. I don't eat refined sugar and I haven't had a carbonated beverage since before surgery. I do try to watch the kind of food I eat, sticking to a more "clean" diet, BUT...I consume too many calories. I know this but I just can't seem to get a grip. I believe I'm an emotional eater, thus my problem. I'm now considered 100% disabled so I'm no longer in the corporate world, which at least got me up and about when I was 320 lbs. I was a very active overweight person who was beginning to feel the "pain" from being so overweight. I need advice and direction too. Please email me at [email protected]. Thank you so much, Paisley

Hi Stacie, Congratulations on your story. It makes me happy to hear that you are doing well. I am also over 5 years out. My surgery was in March 2002. I never want to go back to being that person. I just put my story on this site. I have been a registered member for 5 years, but never talked to anybody. So you are my first. My surgery road was long and tough and it took a lot for me to be where I am, but I am happier and healthier than I have ever been. I actually like looking in the mirror. In fact, I'm going to get my hubby to take some pictures of me this weekend so I can post a few. Well, I hope you read this and reply and we can chat some. Katey

how is everyone doing?? Holding on? Struggling?? Let me know whatis happening in your life! 5 years ago I stood on the very threshold that many of you are standing on now.. The decision on whether to take a risk and change my life. What if I died? What if the surgery failed? What if I failed this last chance? Why do I want to do it? I wasn't living a life, I merely existed. I had a teenage daughter that I wanted to be there for. I wanted her to be proud of me and that had to start with me being proud of me. So I took that step, waged the risk. Now its been 5 years since I made that decision, 5 years since I decided that my life should have a higher value, That I should be enjoying my life, not just getting by from day to day.. Pushed thru by some dark force. The decision brought many changes over the years, some expected, some wanted, others difficult and only with the help of some very good friends did I get through them. Today: When a cancer victim hits the 5 year mark, they are said to be in remission from their disease. Obesity is different. Every day is a choice to stay focused and in control. I am happier, healthier, energized, hopeful, excited and -110 lighter, still. My daughter is proud of me, she may have been proud of me if I remained heavy, but I am proud of me, which makes it easier for me to allow others to be proud. I have done things that would have been impossible 5 years ago. While I am exhilarated by life these day; it is frightening when I think where I would be today if I had NOT made the decision that I did. I like me. The tale of the butterfly emerging is one of hope... but the story of where the butterfly goes once it sprouts its wings is the real story... I am happy to say, 5 years later, my wings are still holding me up... Not everyone makes it this far.. I hope you do.

I feel like i eat so much, but i think it is all relative to the beginning, I can eat a WHOLE grilled cheese sandwich now, but in reality....that is not enormous, but it is different so it seems so much, i can eat a whole wendy's small chili, with half baked potatoe, ok that scares me, what can you guys eat, i'm 4 years too