Yes, I am having the problem too. It is just the last month or so...before that I had more control and could wait minutes between bites. It is especially bad if I am in a restaurant. I feel rushed because the people I am with eat fast and also that the waitress wants the table turned over. I also feel I am eating more calories even though I really am trying to keep track on fitday. I don't feel that it is a "bother" like you, but my attitude toward food has definately changed. I certainly don't have the interest and enjoyment I used to, now it is just another thing I have to do like brush my teeth, get dressed and go to work. Sometimes I do take the 30 minutes suggested for a meal, other times I am done in 15. Depending on what I have had, sometimes I pay for eating too fast with chest pain, gas, etc. I try really hard to be more aware. It is hard to get my husband to understand that I can't answer him if I am in the middle of chewing something...and he always seems to ask me something just at that time. The first few times, I forgot and swallowed too soon and paid dearly with pain, the whole "rock in the pouch" feeling. Now I just point to my mouth and make him wait. So, the real answer to your question is go back to basics and put the fork down between bites. That is finally what I had to do and it is working.

its gas... I never experienced it until after surgery ( they fill you up with air during the surgery) I think that almost opens things up that have never been that way... because now I get it from time to time... it is excruciating to say the least... it has had me rolling on the floor literally... try gas x and sometimes you just have to wait for it to pass.... I would most certainly think that is what it is... if it is upper right quadrant pain check for gall stones ( doesnt sound like it by your description) I have to have my gall bladder out now. Good luck... hope you are feeling better soon!!! Dawn

Thanks for the comments, I was thinking SF candy after I submitted the post. Actually I did pretty well, and the scale hasnt moved up so that is a good thing. Thanks again....you both look awsome!

1. Pre-op/Current/Goal? 271/149/155 (Doc's goal). My weight loss really slowed down for awhile, but has picked back up again. I'm actually starting to get a little nervous about losing too much! 2. What are you eating on a regular basis? Breakfast is nearly always the same: 12 oz. of V8 juice and 1 Atkins Advantage shake. Lunch and dinner are usually some meat (must be moist) and a low-GI-vegie. I snack on sunflower seeds all day and drink lots of Propel fitness water. I do have an occasional diet caffeine-free coke (flat) and SF cookies or candy. I dump more on fats than sugars and on too much sugar alcohol. 3. Any regrets/complications/issues? No regrets! I have gone from 17 regular prescription meds to 4. I carry around before and after med lists rather than before and after pictures. The first 4 months were horrible (ulcers and nausea); the next 5 months were much better; the last month has been horrible again. I think I may have another ulcer. I am TERRIBLE about exercise (hate it, in fact), but that hasn't seemed to slow my weight loss down. 4. How are you doing on vitamins and protein? No problems - I take my vitamins faithfully. 5. Any advice? Just be prepared for the inconsistent reactions to food - some days I can eat just about anything, but the next day the same foods might make me sick. Also, it has helped me remember to take my vitamins by sorting them into a magnetic pill holder and attaching them to my computer stand, right in front of my nose.

I haven't tested the waters yet with candy, so I'm not where you are ... yet. One day at a time is my motto. And I know, there but by the grace of God go I! What I did last night to avoid that feeling of deprivation is bake a batch of SF Pillsbury Chocolate Chip cookies. They were pretty good! I ate two. They did kinda upset my stomach, but it was a better choice than the big bowl of candy I was handing out. Maybe try that as a substitute. Or buy the SF candy. I know it isn't the same, but it has helped me in a pinch. You look awesome, by the way! Sherry 259/154/130