How to Succeed?

I've been dieting most of my life, and so far I'm 100+ pounds overweight. Obviously, it's NOT working. I'm just starting to get interested in Lap-band surgery. My question is, if I can't seem to faithfully follow a diet and exercise program before surgery, what are my chances of following the requirements afterwards? Are there others of you out there who struggled with overeating and unfaithfulness in exercise who have post-surgery found the ability to eat within the guidelines and exercise regularly? Do you know anyone who has "eaten through" the Lap-Band surgery?

Hi Karla I am a 2 1/2 plus year out RNY-er so I really can't help with your question, but wanted to welcome you to the Maryland board and wish you the best on your WLS journey where ever it takes you. You might want to ask your question on the lap band forum as well. Hugs, Mo

Hi, Mo, Thanks for the welcome. This shows you how much I know about online forums...I thought I WAS in the Lap-Band Chat. LOL! Even though I'm probably in the wrong place, already three people have responded to my question. Seems like a nice welcoming group. Thanks, Karla

I worried about that also. I didn't have an appetite for a few weeks post surgery. By that time I was used to eating smaller amounts. I just dont feel the need to eat as much now. Aime

Hi, Aime B, Thanks for the response. I'm just starting to consider this pathway and I appreciate the input. Thanks for taking the time to respond. Karla

I cannot directly answer your question but I think the FEAR of overeating and not exercising is there for most if not all post-ops. I am almost a year post op RNY. I am past goal and almost plataeuing. While I probably should take in more protein shakes (lately its been none) and I should exercise more- I feel I am doing enough things the right way to succeed. No one is perfect- I am never 100% compliant. I eat pizza, I have a mini snickers bar- I do not want to deprive myself of anything in particular as that is what didn't work for me on diets. Other post ops absolutely forbid themselves to have such foods. Each person develops his or her own strategy for success. Even a mini indulgence sometimes i end up regretting not due to weight gain but because of pretty extreme GI distress. So when this happens once or a few times- my brain becomes condtioned not to eat that food again- its negative reinforcement. Endulgent behavior leads to pain/discomfort therefore to avoid future pain/discomfort- I do not endulge on same foods. It's just not worth it. Now of course if this sensitive GI tract of mine ever gets normal or not sensitive- I do fear I may eat whatever with no GI consequences and may gain weight and bad habits back. I do feel that the cognitive/behavioral issues need to be addressed or managed eventually for long term success. Going to a counsellor or therapist specializing in eating disorders/obesity may be a good start. My hope is I will not allow myself to fall back into bad habits- a bad or endulgent episode is OK but I plan to catch myself before it becomes a habit. Weighing myself daily help keep me honest. I don't record weights or obsess about the scale but i do step on it each morning so that any possible weight gain will not snekl by me unnoticed. The Lap band presents a very diferent type of post op program/challenges however and that board may be a resource for you. Take care, Karen

Hi, Karen, Thanks for the great response. I'm just starting to consider what my options might be and hearing from others who have already gone through some kind of WLS is really helpful. Thanks, Karla