Scale moving the wrong direction at 2.5 years post op!

I'm pissed at myself. I had it so easy, no return of physical hunger, ever! No major exercise needed. No skin issues. No remaining health issues.
But then about 9 months ago I got hit with a severe depression. And then a new job far from the gym. And I've put on about 20 lbs. I am freaking out. I know what I need to do- get back on the protein wagon and OFF the sugar wagon! Vitamins would be good too...

There is a serious question here- I've been drinking super sweet and super light coffee. I want to switch to splenda, but I'll be using a TON- is that a step in the right direction or should I try to stop entirely? It is decaf most days.
I'll also be switching from a bagel and cream cheese to a english muffin egg and cheese breakfast. Same calories, more protein.

My job doesn't offer me a lot of options for lunch and dinner, so I try and go with cheese, apples, soups, etc. I think changing breakfast and cutting out the late night chocolate covered pretzels will help.

Will increasing my protein without reducing my caloric intake make a difference?
I should know this stuff, sigh.

Your first issue is this statement "No major exercise needed."  Exercise is essential for numerous reasons.  Builds muscle which requires more fuel to maintain to say nothing of the mental health benefits, along with being a reminder of how we should be treating our bodies.    You need to do the work to reap the benefits.

Good luck.

Maintenance is not easy. It takes alot of work!! I have to agree that adding some exercise would really help. Also, the splenda issue~for some artificial sweeteners can cause problems and hunger and others don't seem to be bothered by it. I use quite a bit throughout the day with no problem at all. Give it a try and see how your body reacts~if you end up feeling hungry, then try to quit all of it. Adding more protein into your diet is a good idea and a big part of the plan that I follow. Push good, dense protein first~it will fill you up and help you to stay full longer. As far as how many calories you should be consuming, here's a few online resources that might help~

http://www.bmi-calculator.net/bmr-calculator/


http://www.thinnerself.com/files/calculator.htm


http://www.thedailyplate.com/

Good Luck!!!!