menu and food

I am having difficulty writing down what I eat, amount, & when for the dietitian. I understand this is part of the process BUT. All that I can think of is all the attempts, years and getting no where. Today was a great example. I had so many issues come up that breakfast was at noon. reason/emotion: hunger, stress out, tired. I took a nap. When I got up, I ate fruit. Do not have much desire to eat since I know I am being monitored and did not really exercise. I can watch what I eat. I can monitor volumes. I can attempt to eat more balance (an issue) BUT. I will have to attempt to food shop for myself. Something that I haven't been able to do. I have described what I need to my daughter but something gets lost in translation. Since I can not really walk or bike or much exercise is not a viable option at this time. I am just really frustrated with this part of things. I just wanted to say my mind. Thanks

Cecilia, you and all the rest of us have all had the same issues. That's pretty much how we all ended up where you are now. Bad habits. Poor choices. Lack or inability to exercise. The WLS you are about to have is only a tool. Use it wisely. Take every oppurtunity to get into the habit to eat those 5/6 small meals a day. Protein is always 1st. Liquids are important. Exercise will help tie it all together. Don't try to see if sugar will make you sick. Worst case it might not and then you'll be in for trouble. You shouldn't be real hungry at 1st. You'll stll need to get in that protein. Later when your appetite gets better then you will have to make good choices. As far as writing it down, I am almost 3 yrs out and I still journal my food, protein, vitamins & liquids every day. It was a habit I got into and I am glad I did. It keeps me positive & focused to write it down on paper. I don't always remember to get it all in. This way I can look at it and adjust for tomorrow. It pays to read labels at the store. If you need help with it I have been know to assist people at Trader' Joe's. Label reading will become a new way of life for you. Honestly there is a lot of work to being a post-op WLS. This is not an easy journey but I am soooooooooo glad I took it. We're here to help. Just ask. Try to make it to a meeting. There is 1 tomorrow night at Concordia Lutheran Church on Silverside Rd. Next Monday at PMRI. Be a sponge and absorb all of it in. You'll sort out what is right for you in time. ((HUGS)) Elissa

I second everything that Elisa said. I hear what you are saying. Emotions,stress, being tired etc is my life and pretty much most WLS patients. Its so easy to NOT put focus and pay attention to ME as the important one. Do I still have issues after 1year, sure I do. I do not like to write in my journal, exercise, eat good quality food but I DO Like HOW I FEEL when I am HEALTHY!!! After approximately 7 weeks of not caring about me as a WLS patient or for that matter not focusing on me, as I was wondering why I felt awfull, I starting wondering and realized I wasnt using my ''tool'' and doing all of the things in the past like I have. You are not alone in this journey my friend, reach out we have been there. Some of us/me are still trying to buck the system/my tool sometimes. Thank GOD I dont buck it all the way and have the good sence to know what I have and where I have been on this journey to good health.

Go to FITDAY.com and keep a journal. It is very simple and caculates everything for you. Take your time and do what you need to do to make yourself healthy!! Best of luck, Emily