Question:
Help!! It's cookout season!

Hi All! Just looking for some feedback as to how everyone is handling cookouts now that the summer is here. It's only just begun and already I've been to about 3 cookouts and it's definitely testing my will-power! Unfortunately, I've found myself caving and helping myself to way more that I know that i should and I'm disappointing myself! I'm getting to the point that if I can't control myself, I'm just going to have to not attend these gatherings and that's not what I want to do because I love to spend time with my family and friends it's just that cookouts have always been my biggest weakness - way too many temptations! I had lap band surgery on September 8, 2009 and am so happy to say that I've lost about 93 pounds to this point. I've stuck to the plan and it's clearly worked but now I'm really starting to get nervous now that the summer is here and just looking for some feedback as to how everyone else is handling this. Thank you!    — Lisa B. (posted on June 28, 2010)

June 28, 2010
No bread sliders and teaspoons. Since my RNY 2 June 2009 I was so afraid to attend cookouts but now I use the slider/teaspoon method...Make sure the griller makes you a very small (acceptable sized) hamburger and NO BUN. Add your lettuce and tomato and onion and condiments. The take a TSP(or a taste) of 3 things. This way I do not feel as though I am missing out on anything but I am also not over eating. Enjoy your cookout and good luck.
   — karensaporito

June 29, 2010
Congratulations on your wonderful success! I know you are feeling better than any food tastes. The above advice is very good, I would add that there are many, many good things available at a cook out that are fine to eat. The small burger with all the condiments, no bread, sliced tomatoes, grilled veggies, fresh fruits, and do allow yourself a small portion of something you really want. Since you can only eat a small amount, that should do you just fine. Focus on your family and friends and not the food. Making the food the center of our social gathering is what got us in trouble in the first place. You have come too far to not follow through now. Best of luck and keep up your successful path!
   — Bonnie H.

June 29, 2010
I find it's helpful to make sure you've gotten enough protein in before going to a social gathering. Protein helps you not be ravenously hungry later. For example, I make sure not to skip or skimp on breakfast on party day... and also make sure to get a protein supplement (shake or bar) a couple hours before the party or picnic.
   — Greg K.

June 30, 2010
Something we have done with cookout season because everything smells so good, is dark meat chicken with a babrbeque sauce that has less than 6 sugars, coleslaw with lowfat mayo and sweetn low. This helps when you smell everyone elses grills going. Best of luck to you
   — ladyrdhk

July 8, 2010
One thing to remember is "Listen to your pouch". meaning that when you eat, don't just eat; stop, pay attention to see how you feel--are you still hungry, are you getting full, eat slow and you will know when to stop eating for the moment. You can always go back if you feel hungry later, but really listen to what your pouch is telling you. (surgery is only a tool) We have the hard job. This is so important. It is a good way to prevent overeating and to teach self control. You should walk away from the food when you feel satisfied. The problem is cookouts have down falls too. You spend time talking, and eating and not paying attention to how much you are eating and next thing you know, you are hurting and have over eaten. Just eat slow and pay attention. Use small plates and only take about a teaspoon of food, a little variety of course, but be sure to stay within the small amount range. Best wishes.
   — Kristy