Hi everyone - I'm fairly new too.

I have visited this board a couple of times before. My natural tendency...to try to do this all by myself! But, tonight I had such a craving to read and hear about people like me! I have so many insecurities about food. I guess a lifetime of eating disorders can do that. I know that sugery was a tool. We still can make choices that lead us back to our old patterns and ensuing weight gain! But I feel blessed, and hope that I don't have to walk down that road like that again. I nearly died from all the co-morbidities - and the choice for surgery was definitely not cosmetic!!! It's a long story, posted somewhere within my profile. I had surgery on September 29th. I have lost 188 lbs! I had so far to go though, I'm sure that is why so much. I weighed in the morning of my surgery at 479 lbs! I too believe the key to better weight loss is to keep the carbs to a minimum, and focus on protein and veges. I read something that makes much sense to me: The reason why we lose weight better on protein rather than carbs - is because when we eat carbs our body reaches for and uses them as our energy during our day. But when there are no carbs present - the body reaches into our fat stores and uses that instead to create energy. That made the most sense out of any explanation I have read. In other words, body will always choose carbohydrates first, if they are there!So when you eliminate the carbs and eat 2/3 protein and 1/3 vegges, you enable your body to burn fat for energy rather than carbohydrates. Good for me to hear! Good luck, and God bless! Tammy Rokosz Post Op from Utah

Tammy, First off, congratulations on the wonderful progress you have made!!! That is incredible. You have got to be sooooo proud. I agree about the carbs. I find myself craving them big time, but I always feel better when I go heavier toward the protien. I wish you much continued success with your journey and I hope to be able to talk to you more. I was 331 on the morning of my surgery and I am now at 245, so I have not hit the 100lb mark as of yet...I am struggling to get there...but I keep trying to plug away at it. You are an inspiration! Keep up the great work! Carolyn