Lessons learned

I had RNY in September 2010. For 6 years, I stayed within 5 pounds of the same weight. But gradually, I started my old habits. I have always been a grazer, and this crept back in. I started out eating tiny amounts of ice cream, chocolate, cake, etc., justifying it in my head that it was only a little bite. The little bites got bigger. Here I am, 7 1/2 years out dealing with 25 pounds of regain and wondering what in the world happened! I was supposed to be a success story!

Here's what I've learned:

1. I can't afford the calories in a "bite" of chocolate. I maintain my weight at 1,000 calories, and every single calorie HAS to have a nutritional value. Otherwise, it's not good for me

2. Taking it back off is not as easy as it was right after surgery. I am not, never have been, and never will be one of those people who can fill their plate and go back for seconds and thirds without gaining an ounce. I need to deal with this.

3. My surgery is a tool. If I don't use it, I will gain back every pound. For the rest of my life, I will have to weigh, measure, and thoughtfully consider every morsel I consume. This is my life. If I choose to live it fully, this is the price I MUST pay. And it isn't too high of a price when considering the alternative.

So many are thinking "this is WLS 101", and so it is. But it has taken me almost 8 years to fully come to terms with this. It is never too late, it can be done, and restricting your calorie intake, recording every bite faithfully, weighing and measuring your food is NOT TOO HARD of a thing to do - your life may well depend on it. I know mine does!

Have a great day!

PS - two weeks and 9 pounds of regain gone. It's not easy, but it definitely isn't hard either!

Great post and keep up the good work!! I am right there with you!

Thank you! I appreciate the moral support!

I applaud you for posting and for taking control, you are on your "weigh" to getting back to your maintenance weight. Congrats for knowing what you needed to do and following through. Keep us posted!

Thank you! I appreciate the pun! Absolutely needed to share this, especially for newcomers who think this is a magic pill that will solve all your weight related problems. It's not, it takes work, and it's for ever.

#Iseewhatyoudidthere

I think you are the "norm" of weight loss surgery. I'm 18 months out, and already find myself creeping into old habits. Thank you for the reality check. Congratulations on your weight loss, keep posting you never know who you are inspiring.

Way to go..everyone talks about "this journey" and it's so true, so personal and so enlightening, good and bad. I love that you can be so honest about yourself to yourself and others.

I'm cheering for you, and know it's worth it, and you can do it. Good Luck, and keep us posted, your victory ?

You are absolutely correct! I am 7.5 yrs out and have continued to lower my goal each time I meet it so I'm 17 lbs to goal. I just lowered it to 130. I commend you! You are doing Great!!!?