3 Year Annivesary Today!

Wow- 3 years already. I know you do not see me around here all that much anymore, and I apologize for that.  I do read as often as I can, and comment when I have something I think might be helpful to share. 

My weight loss journey has been amazing to me.  I cannot even believe what a wonderful surgery choice the Duodenal Switch has turned out to be.  My quality of eating is just plain heavenly.  The amount I can eat, the variety, the lack of repercussions etc, it is just mind boggling.   I do continue to keep a mental note of making sure I get in enough protein, but other than that, I truly eat what I want. 

Things you may wonder about at 3 years post op:

Did you make it to goal and stay there? 

Yes, and no. I did reach my goal.  I maintained there for over 2 years.  Due to a bleeding issue, I was put on the Mirena IUD, and within a couple of weeks I gained 15 pounds.  Was it the birth control, the famous bounce back weight, or just too much junk food?  I don’t know.  I think it was the birth control, but it could be any one of those things or a combo.   I have fought with it, and it does come off quickly if I low carb, but most of the time I just don’t want to!  So usually I would say I am about 5-10 pounds above my goal weight.  I am pretty happy with that.  When I get to the high end, I cut down for a few days, and get right back down. When I started my journey I was 366 pounds, and wore a size 5X.  I currently am as of today 162 and a size 10/12.  I am pretty much just a medium.  I find that to be completely wonderful!   

What kind of problems are you facing? I still work hard to maintain my Vitamin D and Iron levels.  These are my worst side effects from WLS.  

What are the bathroom issues like for you? So many people worry about the bathroom issues with this procedure.  For me, it really is a non-issue.  I do remember early post op, not being able to sleep in.  When I would wake up in the morning, so did my guts, and I HAD to go to the bathroom THEN.  It is not that way anymore.  Also the Fish Zole (Flagyl) has been a godsend as far as a license to eat junk and not have any gas etc.  If I am going to eat like a moron, I pop one of those and I have a free pass.  It is a beautiful thing.  

I have said this a million times, but I will say it again – NO ONE would ever, in a million years be able to tell I had WLS by watching me eat.  If you are someone researching surgery, and want a surgery that allows you to continue to enjoy eating, take a harder look at the DS. 

When I was researching, I so badly wanted a surgery that I would not have to continue to be on a diet with afterward.  This was the perfect choice for me.  I am living life to the fullest, and enjoying every bite along the way. I wish all of you so much success in wherever your health goals take you.  If I can answer any questions or be of support, please let me know. 

Best wishes to you and yours!  Isha

Xpost on the boards I participate on.

Congratulations on your inspiring three-year surgiversary, Isha! I see your posts on the DS board sometimes. Keep up the excellent work!

Ain't it great!?!  I'm so happy to hear you are doing so well three years out.  Life sounds really balanced for you.  It is truly such a miracle that has allowed us to be free of morbid obesity.  Patty

Isha, I wish you continued success on your journey and your new life! Lori