When do you decide to pursue revision?
I am nearly 3 years post RNY..will go back for 3 year check on Aug. 7th. I lost all of my weight in the first year, was able to maintain it in the second year, had many of my plastic surgeries and at the end of the 2nd year, started gaining weight quickly. Within 6 mo, had gained back about 45#..38% of the amount I had lost. I had a lot of intestinal problems during that time, was on meds for infections, etc. but have tried to lose it since December of last year and have only varied 3-4# up and down. Appetite is a problem as well as eating things that don't bother my stomach. Had 5 infusions for anemia in January, my thyroid was ok then dropped too low so was adjusted up. No difference. I originally had a marginal ulcer that was treated with nexium & carafate. Last year, had another scope and they removed some tissue with staples attached (not sure what that means, if anything). I tried the 5 day pouch test and found that I still can't eat huge quantities of anything but get hungry so want to eat frequently. I have kept track of my food intake and it is usually around 1100-1300 calories. I know my "tool" isn't broken but the thing I enjoyed most about the surgery was the loss of constant appetite. I do exercise but only walk for 2-3 miles 4-5 times a week, which isn't enough to lose, I'm sure. I guess my question is will revision really do any good?
I had RNY - I get hungry when I eat too many carbs. My body does not care - good carbs - bad carbs.
If I eat 1200 a day with carbs - not only I am gaining but I also fill like I am starving.
I had to change what and how much I can eat. I eat protein and fat at every meal. I may have some carbs - but no more than 50-60 gr a day and that in a form or very complex carbs: like in green non starchy veggies, nuts and nut butters, and very limited fruits.
I also try to eat every 2-3 hrs (hungry or not) when awake. It does not have to be too much": i.e. my pouch does not like breakfast so I have proteins shake. Then small snack ... then small lunch... etc.
I make sure i drink water - or green tea in between meals.
I learn that even a "bite" of some foods makes me want another and another... or makes me hungry... so I gave up that foods all together, I don't eat grains, or starchy vegetables (including beans - that due to excessive gas)
Sometimes hunger is a sign of thirst or a sign of excessive acid production.. The first one gets resolved after drinking - and the second : to me it feels like "empty feeling in my gut - borderline pain" . I I get symptoms like that - I make sure to evaluate my diet or take antacids for a while... (2-3 weeks then slowly tamper off - irritated pouch?)
Exercise - excessive - too much or too long - may make me more hungry - so I make sure I start easy with any new routine..
Hala. RNY 5/14/2008; Happy At Goal =HAG
"I can eat or do anything I want to - as long as I am willing to deal with the consequences"
"Failure is not falling down, It is not getting up once you fell... So pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and start all over again...."
Thanks for all replies. All information helps. I went back for my 3 year check. I told him of the hunger issues and he, of course, is not happy with the 38% regain. Since I am still having trouble keeping some solids (especially meats) down and am vomiting 2-3 times a week, he has decided to do a gastroscopy in September. Not sure what he will find. I have looked on Back on Track site and found that what many are eating resemble post-surgery foods and quantities...1 or 2 items at most in very small quantities..probably not more than 700-1000 calories. I know I can't tolerate carbs..just a fact of life. Have had several bouts of hypoglycemia (which is scary) with BS in the 40's or 50's. Then, of course, I get hungry. I have been using Quest bars as a protein bar supplement but think maybe has too many carbs (even though it is VERY high fiber). Dr. told me not to subtract the fiber but count all the carbs. Anyone have experience with Quest bars (they really taste good)? Allergic to soy protein so most other bars off-limits.