Food Addiction

I had gastric bypass three years ago.  I lost 100 pounds but have put on 30 pounds in one year (20 in 3 months).  I am beyond frustrated. My doctor has put me on phentermine to help with the food cravings. However, I still crave food and find it hard to control my eating no matter how hard I try.  I believe I have a food addiction.  I don't know what to do!  Is there anyone else who struggles with this problem. What did you do?  Praying for answers so I can turn things around.  I have even been exercising 3-4 times a week with no help.  

When it comes to mental health, the best thing you can do is see a mental health professional.  Do you have a therapist?  It might also be wise to talk with a psychiatrist.  

Exercise only keeps me focused. It really helps me stay focused on taking care of myself. It is me time. 

I have major food addiction and alcoholism issues. 

I know I really have to watch carbs. Once I start sometimes I can not stop myself.

Getting in touch with a therapist may help. There are others here I am sure will help you.

If you feel restriction then just stick to protein. 

Best of luck to you. 

What type of therapist do you suggest? I have looked for support groups but there are none in my area. Thank you for your help and support!

I was seeing one before surgery. I have had some emotional issues since childhood. I know my food issues and other addictions are based from a lot of things that have happened to me as a child.

I would check your insurance plan and see if they have therapists in your network and go from there. 

Thank you so much! I am going to do that tomorrow. 

Drink something before you eat. I try to do that to slow myself down before I eat. Bad habits do creep back into our lives. I wish they didn't but it can happen. 

Coming here for help is a good start. Start posting on one of the forums that has what are you eating daily. It does help. Not just by posting but reading what others are eating and what they are going through to. 

We are not perfect. 

Psychology Today magazine has a great directory of therapists that can help you find someone. All of the counselors have blurbs, and you can even search for someone who may have experience with eating disorders or body image problems-- those are areas that often correspond to helping bariatric patients.

https://therapists.psychologytoday.com/

Thank you. This is a great resource.