It's become an "old-fashioned" DIET

Hi, I am post op almost 3 years. I have been really struggling with my eating the last few months. I loved when my pouch was unable to accept hardly any food. I've noticed it can handle a LOT more now and I'm struggling with putting the fork down. Back to the old days. I'm not sure my "tool" works anymore. I realize the surgery did nothing for my "head" but I did think it would be harder to overeat. I do still make good food choices as far as no sugar, fried foods, high fat, but my "carb demon" has found me again. I'm sure I'm not alone in my struggles but I'm starting to get that "Ive failed at this also feeling." I look forward to your comments and suggestions. I also REALLY wish there were more support meetings.

Hi Deb, First off the fact that you realize your "slipping " is an indication that you are not a "Failure". Break out the before surgery picture and stick it on the frig, and a full lenght mirror. Next do your best to keep those "Demon" carbs as far away from you as possible. Know its not easy and frankly even I slip from time to time. Just remember all you have to do is get up, dust yourself off and get back on track! If you keep an eye on the board there are lots of support group meeting. Most welcome all WLS patients even if they didn't have the surgery done at that particular hospital. Lastly, This "Board" is a valuable resource where there is always a helping hand along with a gently "Nudge" when one is needed! Good Luck and believe in "Yourself! You got this far, you can go further! Just take it a day at a time ! Take Care,

I'm no where as far out as you but I know exactly what you mean by the surgey did nothing for our head. Try going back to basics for a few days. By that I mean protein first and then only good carbs. See if that can get your Carb demon under control. Good Luck. Koukla

Debbie. Nobody is perfect. Nobody. And facing our demons is not failure. To the contrary, it is healthy. Bravo for being proactive. I am 2.5 yrs out and anybody who knows me knows what I am about to suggest. Go consult with a nutritionist who is well versed in post op eating. I still see a nutritionist monthly to keep me on track. For I know all too well how the restriction has changed since the beginning. I see Nancy Murphy in Fairfield. I travel all the way from Milford.. it's worth the trip. If you want contact info... Let me know.. I will email it to you. Hang in there... I have also discovered that exercising helps me stay on a better eating plan. I weigh and measure my food still. My head is so slow to understand that I don't need a truck load of food to survive. Towanda

What has helped me is never considering that I am on a diet. I don't eat those foods that are helpful for me (no nutrition, might cause dumping, etc.)-- in my mind, I have convinced myself that this is not a diet. So, I don't feel deprived. To help get me to this point (and stay focused on it), I've relied very heavily on my surgeon (saw him regularly and still keep in touch now that he's teaching in Texas), religiously attend/help moderate two support group meetings every month and see an eating-disorder counsellor as the need arises.