Do you ever forget you have a pouch?? And eat too much???

Perhaps you're right.  I do still measure a half cup total per meal.  Most times I eat the complete 1/2 cup, sometimes I don't because I feel full.  I do know what full feels like. 

Just to clarify what you're saying, you're saying ONCE I heal, then I'll be able to feel full? 

Also, I've seen posts from those that are quite a long time post op and I see some are saying they eat 3 oz. of meat.  Is that the complete meal or do you have sides such as veggies.  I'm just wondering when I'll be able to eat "normal" again by having a "complete" meal (meat, and sides such as veggies) while still watching my portions.

The RN in my surgeon's office is 2+ years out and she said she eats no more than one cup of food per meal.  Just curious.

Yes, that's right-- you'll feel full once things have healed up.

Generally, your meals post-op will be dense protein first and foremost, maybe a bite or two of veggies afterwards, NO carbs (rice, pasta, potatoes, etc).

I was wondering why I sometimes don't feel as though I had surgery.  Right now my notebook from my surgeon's office said that I can have a baked potato minus skin (no more than 1/2 cup) with salsa on top if desired.  I can also have 1/2 slice of toast with my egg if I choose.  I only do that no more than 1X/week.

Also, one more question, No carbonated beverages......why is that?  I could sure go for a beer about now.  I'm not a pop drinker, so that's not a problem for me but a beer once in a great while would be nice.  Will I ever be able to do that?

The sooner you drop all carbs entirely, the better off you'll be. Many people here don't touch them at all, even once a week.

As far as carbonation goes, there's some concern that it will stretch your stomach, though I've yet to see any scientific evidence of it. I drink Diet Coke, but didn't try any until at least 6 months out and let it go mostly flat at first.

Alcohol is a BAD idea after surgery. Between altered insides and lower weight, lots of people see their tolerance go WAAAAAAY down. "Transfer addiction" is a very real possibility as well; without food as an emotional comfort tool, some people start self-medicating with alcohol instead. Not to mention that it's nothing but carbs and empty calories. You're best to stay far away until maintenance at least.

I do.. I binged last night.... Slider foods ....but enough to end up with severe belly cramps... I do that once in a while......... Then remember for next few months what not to do....  8 years post op..At goal... You think I would know better???? Nope.  That's why I have a tool.. Because hiring someone full time to whack me in a head or belly when I do stupid **** like that was not practical.... Rest assure - next few days I would be really nice to my pouch and my belly...really really nice....  

I have a band so it's a bit different.  There are days when my band is wide open and I can eat way too much if I let myself (and let's be honest sometimes I have over done it).  But most times I am good and stop before my band gives me a reminder. 

I have a DS stomach (not a pouch) but yeah, 11 + years out and I still overestimate how much I can eat.  My secret???? have my husband fix my plate.

Just about every single time I fix myself something to eat I think "That will never be enough."  I just tell myself that if I am still hungry after I eat it I can have more.  I rarely need to do that.