Question for WLS "vets"

Hey gang,

It's been a long time since I've been on here and I realized I've missed reading up on everyone's progress/issues/questions etc!

I have a question for any WLS "veterans" out there...I had my surgery approx. 3.5 years ago...I have lost about 155 pounds (give or take) and have been experiencing some of the regain they told me about.  Nothing serious, but it's still slightly scary!  I just wanted to know, for anyone that has had the surgery 2 years ago or longer...what is the amount of calories that we should be taking in at this point?  I can't find the original literature they gave me at the clinic and don't have an appointment scheduled there for a while (although maybe I should request one to go over this very topic).  So I'm curious about how many calories/day that you find works for you...in terms of staying in maintenance and also in terms of losing more this far out...I know you can still lose weight even more than 3 years out...but I'm assuming it gets a bit harder?

I'd appreciate any input! 

Thanks! 

Losing weight further out is harder but certainly not impossible. I was told 1200 calories. This might be too low for you. It all depends pon age and level of activity. You would probably do best trying to see one of the dietitians at your centre

Thanks for the reply!  I was thinking it was around 1200...but you're right, it wouldn't hurt to book an appointment with one of the dietitians to go over it in more detail (ie. my level of activity etc).

I'm glad to get some thoughts on weight loss further out...it's good to know it's still possible!

I appreciate your reply!  

Staci

It varies from person to person, but from my many years here on OH, most people here seem to consume 1000-1400 calories to maintain.

I seem to be one of the outliers. I consume 2000 calories a day to maintain.

Thanks for your reply!  Yeah you're right, it does vary from person to person, but it's nice to see that range people are using.

Thanks!

Staci

Multiply your goal weight by 10.  So to maintain 140 pounds eat 1400 calories a day.  To lose a pound a week subtract 500 a day and eat 900 a day.

Great!  Thanks for the info! :-)

Staci

As everyone else mentioned, it's a very personal thing unfortunately. Probably the only way to find out is to plan and track a weekly menu in myfitnesspal (with a consistent number of calories) and see where that takes you. If you gain - too many. If you lose - too few, unless you're trying to lose. If you stay the same - maintenance.

It's good to see you back!

K. :)

Thanks Karen! :-)

Yes, you're right...it's a very personal thing.  Good tip about the tracking on myfitnesspal...I'll have to try that!

Have a good day!

Staci :-)