Question:
gaining some weight back

I had Gastric Bypass in 2008. I've lost about 220. However, I met a wonderful man with 2 kids and being around them causes me to eat more frequently, eat the wrong things, and larger portions. I know it is my own fault, not theirs, but I am explaining that being around them and cooking, eating, grilling on the BBQ, and so on is sabotaging me. When I lived alone, it was MUCH easier to control what I ate and which foods I brought in the house. I have gained 17 pounds and am so unhappy about how my clothes fit, but I just can't seem to stop myself. Any suggestions? Thanks    — Gina S. (posted on April 19, 2010)

April 19, 2010
Hmmm. I would encourage you to stock up on protein so that when you do eat, it isn't things that are going to be bad for you. While nobody wants to just sit there and watch other people eat, you don't want to just put anything in your body just because others are doing it. Are you living there or just dating? If you are living there, then you need to just make yourself get a supply of food that is WLS friendly. You mention grilling on the BBQ. Throw some chicken on there or some lean hamburger patties for you. If you do brisket, trim it really lean. If you are cooking make sure there is some lean protein as part of the meal and maybe a salad. Keep some boiled eggs around and some of the cubed chicken and ham you can get now and make a chef salad. If there is junk food there, try to figure out healthier things to have around. You would be doing a favor to the kids AND their dad. Maybe get some s/f popsicles for if they eat something sweet and you want to join in. For portions, go back to basics. Eat off of a saucer instead of a large plate. Take time between bites to chew carefully and focus on the experience of being with them. There are plenty of people here who have lost their weight and maintain it while raising families so hopefully they will come in with some great advice. Congratulations on the 220lbs gone. That is outstanding! Please don't let that effort go to waste (and waist). You can come up with an alternative plan and I feel certain that there will be people here who can throw in some really good information for you. Oh yeah, since you are hanging out with 2 kids now try to figure out some activities that you and they might enjoy that don't involve food. Lead by example! Congrats on the new relationship. Isn't post-op life great?!
   — Kellye C.