Anyone out there more than 5 years out -- struggling to re-lose weight?

my addiction to coke is like smokers to their cigs, my dr knew that and was happy for me to go from 12-24 a day to one every few days. it is the one security blanket I have yet to let go of. years of physical abuse and mental abuse....the one thing that did not hurt me was food and coke.  I am doing better, but it is still my friend and I have not yet let it go............ I could have latched on to drugs or alcohol like some of my other family members but I chose food and cokes.......guess I could not afford the other two..........and we all gotta eat who knows........

Thanks to all of you for letting me know I'm not alone, and reminding me that I have the tool I need to get back on track. So what's this "5 Day Pouch Test" some of you have mentioned?   Also, I've heard some of you mention fitday.com.  Last year I used my-caloriecounter.com, and it sounds similiar.  Anyone have experience with both, and prefer one over the other.  When I tracked my food intake and exercise on-line last year, I dropped 40 pounds, from 268 to 228. . .but then I got distracted, started snacking on Reeses mini peanut butter cups, and the weight slowly crept back up by 12 pounds.  I want to reverse that trend, and get back down to under 200. . .so I'm going to remember everything you all have told me.

Phyllis, the 5 day pouch test was created by a post-op RNY patients that used it to test her pouch and regain control. Google  www.5daypouchtest.com for info on the plan....I've seem many on this board have lots of success with doing it, including myself.  You'll be amazed at how little you can consume when you focus on the right foods.  The first 2 days are liquids only and although you may find challenges, if you decide to do it, give it your best....prepare yourself mentally that YOU'LL do it.

Phyllis, The 5DPT is a good way to detox from carbs, shrink your pouch a little and get back to basics.  It works, although (like me) you may have to do it more than once!     www.5daypouchtest.com For tracking, I like the Daily Plate.  I find it very easy to use. www.thedailyplate.com Michele

I had surgery in 01 and I never got to my goal of 140.  My lowest was 155 and I allowed myself to get to 182 three different times since then.  But, every time I get to that number I get back on track by eating protein, veggies and fruit and lots of water.  I have to eat as though I never had surgery in the first place.  And I have to be dedicated to it until I get back to 155 every time. 

I think the only way to be successful at this thing is to NOT allow ourselves to get more than 5 pounds over our lowest weight.  When we get to that point, we get back on track again and then we never get those extra pounds on our bodies that we don't want. 

It will take some dedication to yourself, but don't you think you are worth it?  It may take 4-6 months to get it off, but you can either be at your goal weight by that time OR you can be even heavier than you are now.  Your future is in YOUR hands alone! 

God bless your journey!