Question:
Why am I so hungry?

RNY 12/11/07 and eating 3 ounces a meal. No matter what I eat or drink I am never full and very, very hungry. What is going on here???    — nrupe (posted on February 21, 2008)

February 21, 2008
Relax, your stomach is smaller, but your head hasn't caught up yet. It will come, be glad you have an appetite, my brother had none, didn't eat, and suffered terribly. Eat slowly, don't drink and eat together, and eat a little more, more often, just get your proteins in first. I like soups, and from time to time, a few French fries, or potato chips. Yeah, I know, but I was really good, so I earned a perk here or there ;-D
   — 29Diesel

February 21, 2008
For a variety of reason, new RNY post ops rarely feel hungry for the first few months. I went through it too. You eat what your surgeon says you should, and you'll be OK. Later on, "head hunger" will probably come about--where you've eaten what your body needs but your head thinks you're hungry. DAVE
   — Dave Chambers

February 21, 2008
I am just like you. I had my RNY 12/14/07 and I am hungry starting around noon. I know my problem is I drink right beorfe I eat and after, but I donot eat enough during the morning. I am feeling down about it. Good luck to you!!
   — jlh1129

February 21, 2008
It could be that you have a biger pouch than many of us, or that it has streached some. My doctor wants me to eat more than 3 oz but I can't. I feel like the food is in my throat if I try to. Ask your Doctor what he suggest. I am never hungery and I have to set my watch to remember to eat meals. We all are a little different, but I would not be too upset, as it is tought to eat and take just one bit too much and not be confortable for an hour or so. You are not drinking with or for 1 hour after meals, right? Some doctors don't say much about that rule, but others are real strict on not dring with or after meals.
   — William (Bill) wmil

February 21, 2008
The other's are right your head makes you think you're hungry because if you're llke me I use to eat alot. Just eat what you're suppose to and then find a hobby or go walking. As you see the weight come off and you get to feeling better things will all fall into place. I've been out 11.5 months, lost 181 pounds so far and my head plays tricks on me but thank God my stomach won't let me overeat. Remember to not drink drinks with carbonation in it. These make you hungry and will stretch your stomach. Good luck and you're in my prayers.
   — TrevaDeck150

February 21, 2008
Make sure you are eating protein first. I weigh my protein to make sure I am getting in what I am suppose to. I have 3 oz of protein (chicken, fish etc) have some veggies and a little starch (potato etc just a little) If you are still hungry have 1 more oz of protein. My nutritionist suggestion. Also keep low fat, low sugar foods on hand. (pretzels, kashi bars etc.) Plan your snacks, eat slowly, and use your tools mindful eating, drink your fluids but not 1/2 hr before or after or during your meals. You don't want to fill up on fluid before you eat, don't want to wash your food down during or after you eat. I am 16 months out and have lost a total of 113 lbs. Refer back to your book if given one on things to eat. I still buy books on RNY there are alot of them out there that can help you for example Life after bypass surgery, How to keep the weight off etc. Check on Amazon.com Best of luck
   — niecie54

February 21, 2008
I always ask my daughters, is your tummy hungry or your mind not satisfied. It is very difficult to adjust the eyes to the small amount of food you are eating as opposed to what you used to eat. Don't rush, take time out to smell the roses. The honeymoon doesn't last long. Imagine yourself as a child, you have to start off with milk, then puree, then solids, but using extra care in your choices and then graduating to the real deal. Satisfaction and hunger are two completely seperate things, make sure you know the difference. This will definately help, anyhow CONGRATULATIONS!
   — bariatricdivalatina

February 21, 2008
Hi Nancy...I just read everyone's response and it seems unanimous that head hunger is your problem. While that may certainly be true, it can also be WHAT you are eating. If you eat mostly starches(White foods), sugars and regular milk...They all turn to sugar in your body causing you carbohydrate cravings and hunger. If you are eating these things, switch over to whole grains rather than white foods...and do not drink with your meals or you wash the food out before you feel full. Protein keeps you fullest longest too! Try adding protein drink and get at least 64 oz of liquids in! Hope that helps some... Good luck
   — .Anita R.