Question:
In August I'll be 5 years out. I've gained back almost 100 lbs of the 130 lbs I lost

I had an upper gi done which showed my pouch hasn't streatched. I don't eat sugar. I can't exercise because I need both knees replaced. I don't know how to loose anymore. HELP    — Debbie A. (posted on May 26, 2007)

May 26, 2007
This is not an answer but a good friend of mine had trouble with both of her knees and for along time she could not excercise, so it was suggested that she try using an eclentic bike I think is what it is called. She found she could ride this bicycle and it put no pressure on her knees because she was sitting and her legs were stretched out instead of going up and down putting pressure on her knee pushing the pedal down, but her legs out stretched she could work better with her knees and after she had knee surgery she went back to the bike and she is doing great.
   — dreamcatcher57

May 26, 2007
Tell us how you eat. What, when, how much. What do you drink? With meals? How much protein in supplement and what are your vites? I see they did an upper GI. Were they checking for staple line disruption? When you eat, how long do you stay "full"? How long do you stay comfortable?
   — vitalady

May 26, 2007
A couple of suggestions are to look into chair aerobics and also going to the pool. Just wading in the pool is less pressure on your knees and you can get some exercise. There are always exercises that can be done. Also, track everything you eat and drink. It might be adding up to more than you think. Also think of what other non-sugar cravings you have and think about the type of food it is. If it isn't "healthy" it might be a food interaction problem. Just because it says that foods are a certain amount of calories doesn't mean your body takes it as that many calories. I am sensetive to carbs. My body reacts badly and they are an instant weight gain to me.
   — Silkie

May 27, 2007
Has you PCP checked your thyroid? That's on of the first things we check with female pt.s in my office.
   — nursewendy37

May 27, 2007
Debbie - I'm so sorry you are dealing with this, I'm sure it's difficult for you on so many levels -- not just physically, but mentally as well. I suggest that you go to the revisions board and post there. You will find many who have been through what you have been through with the regain and feelings of being a failure. Be blessed and I wish you good health!
   — [Deactivated Member]

May 27, 2007
Hi... you sure can exercise and raise your heart rate.. you just need to find a pool to exercise in. You can still move around in the pool as the water's bouyancy will allow you to remove most of the strain from your weight off of your joints. You can move upper extremities and get your heart rate up... don't say you can't do this until you try. I would recommend finding a physical therapy place that either has their own pool or ask them if any of the surrounding area facilities have some trained staff to help you develop an exercise regime that will maximize your cardiovascular while being gentle on your knees. Don't use this as an excuse not to exercise... as you knew going into the surgery.. exercise is a key component for long term success. good luck to you...
   — Kari_K

May 27, 2007
THE POOL was what I wanted to say too. It is the BEST place to exercise bar none! Even if your joints are fine...fastest and easiest way to burn cals! I bought a portable one that is used for demo's and shows and set it up in my yard! Best thing I ever did! Go to a therapy place that can even hoist you in and out of their lap pools if you know how to swim. If not get a float to take in with you. EASY WAY to burn baby burn
   — LouAB