helpful tips please

20 months out here. I have had wonderful success, and am very happy with my results. Problem: 3 months ago.... my eating started to increase, drasticly. Any tips to help me fromthose who are post-op 2+ years and maintaining?

I have been maintaining since December 2004. The easiest way for me to maintain is by making sure I exercise several days per week. Also, if you will eat proteins that are really dense you will not be able to hold as much and you will stay full longer. Simple carbs like white breads, pastas, chips, and anything else processed will allow you to eat more, it won't hold you as long, and sometimes can make you feel you need more and more food because it affects your blood sugar levels. Several of us check in every night to keep each other accountable in eating the things that we need to be eating and to help us stay away from the evil carbohydrates we don't need. Come on in every night and join us in that post. It is really helpful. I have also gotten some good ideas for some new things to try. The farther out we get the harder it seems sometimes to make sure we live the lifestyle we were meant to live after this surgery. We are only human and sometimes need some support or just a good swift kick in the tail to keep us on track. Look forward to seeing you post with us. Good luck in your maintainance journey. Melissa Lap Rny 1/15/04 277/135

I am 2 years post-op and have been maintaining my 125 pound weight loss by following the "Pouch Rules for Dummies." Here is a link: http://www.gastricbypassfamily.com/PouchRules.html It's very hard to graze if you are not drinking liquids 30 minutes before and 60 minutes after a meal and drinking the entire time between meals. This is what works for me. I eat by the following schedule since I still do not experience hunger. But I think it could work for anyone. 1. Drink coffee (24-36 oz with Splenda & fat-free half & half). 2. Take calcium. 3. Drink protein shake (I do NOT like to eat breakfast). 4. Wait 60 minutes. 5. Take multivitamins. 6. Drink at least 32 oz of water (Crystal Light, etc.). 7. Wait 30 minutes. 8. Eat lunch (usually 4 oz tuna salad OR 2 lowfat string cheeses & 3 turkey slices). 9. Wait 60 minutes. 10. Drink at least 32 oz of water (Crystal Light, etc.). 11. Eat dinner (2-3 oz of meat, like chicken or fish & 1/4 C veggies). 12. Wait 60 minutes. 13. Take calcium. 14. Drink at least 32 oz of water (Crystal Light and/or coffee). 15. Wait 30 minutes. 16. Eat a bedtime snack (NSA ice cream bar or chocolate flavored protein bar). Take what you need and leave the rest. Good luck. XOXOXO, Sharyn