Hi from new BOTT

Hello! I see that folks here have introduced themselves on the Welcome thread, but didn't know if existing members would see it there.

I'm glad to meet fellow Back On Trackers! I have been on the RNY thread for a year or so, and as my weight loss failure dragged on and on I felt less welcome there. I hope to feel more welcomed here with others who have not had a perfect or easy journey and have not given up hope.

I lost weight steadily for about four months after surgery, and then plateaued...and stayed plateaued. I stayed on plan and kept exercising, but my weight bobbed up and down around 242 for 6 months. Then about two months ago I gave up. I've been eating badly and too much and took a looong break from exercise. I gained five pounds. 

In a way, I'm proud that I hung on as long as I did with no results or reward, but at the same time I'm desperate to find a way to lose weight. Evidently my metabolism is hyperefficient, ready for that big famine: I seem to burn no calories. I'm in my 60s (how in blazes did that happen??) and was thin until my late 30s, when a perfect storm of cir****tances and changes piled on 160 pounds over two decades.

I feel so ready to succeed, and I need your help and support! I'll give you mine, as well.

(btw, when I figure out how to put a photo of the human me into my avatar, I'll do it. I think my tech knowhow got stalled back in the 20th Century.)

Welcome aboard. As you've probably realized we come from a variety of backgrounds. The variety here is part of what makes it a great group. You'll find compassion and understanding (and a swift kick if that's what's needed most). Try and post often and please feel free to jump right in.

- Iris

Thank you!

Hi Dagne,

Welcome!  I'm a newbie to BOTT as of Feb, but not new to WLS or OH.  This is the best group I've ever been a part of.  I find that posting daily keeps me on the straight and narrow.  And I look forward to the daily postings of others for many reasons...menu ideas, similar problems, etc.  

High protein, low carbs, lots of water and exercise should do the trick.  If you've got anything going for yourself, it's tenacity!  A 6 month plateau is no joke, but to go with it as long as you did is awesome!

You can do it, and age 60+ is only a number.  Looking forward to your posts, and don't worry...you will find plenty of support here.

Shelia

Thanks, Sheila! 

One thing I may have neglected is water. Clear liquids were always uncomfortable, but I must cowgirl up and drink them even though La Pouchette complains.

Is the uncomfortable feeling caused by only water, or all clear liquids (soda, black coffee, tea)?  Is it because you need more viscous, or thick fluids?  

If it's because of the taste of water, try no calorie additives like Crystal Light, MiO, or even a squeeze of lemon or lime.  I freeze two 32 oz bottles of tap water each day, drinking them as they melt, in addition to lots of ice chips, Crystal Light or diet decaf teas.  I don't drink carbonated drinks anymore, and no drinks (for me) 30mins before and 60mins (or more) after meals. 

I'm sure you may have heard these same tips before.  Whatever works for you, but fluids are very important.  Hang in there :)

Coffee with cream sits great, and viscous fluids are fine. It's plain water that hurts, and sometimes Crystal Light hurts, too. I was trying to get off aspartame, bu****er with a nice lemon wedge or similar makes my pouch cramp. I'm too lazy to keep herbal tea made. Laziness is a good excuse, right?  ;-) Room temp flavored clear liquids are usually okay. I can't believe I like room temp liquids now! I've always been a huge fan of ice.

I'm going to really push the fluids.

Dagne,

I am 4 years out and I still can not drink liquids that are cold, I drink everything room temp, and its ok!

You are not alone and we BOTTS would never not make someone feel not welcome.  Lord knows we all are human!  This will be my second trip to BOTT boards and I'm hoping I do better.  I agree with the other poster, daily positing even if it's just how you feel will let you know you are not alone.  Keep in touch...:)

Thanks, Debra!