Question:
denial

I did not realize that I had a connection with food until after the surgery. It was after the surgery when I realize how much I loved to eat. I am now almost three months out and I still feel somehow I have that connection. Did any of you go through this? Will I continue to be depressed because I can't eat as much as I want? Food is constantly on my mind. I hope that I don't have to go and see a psychologist for eating issues. All I want to do is eat, eat, eat. And I can't, can't, can't! Help!    — Luscious1 X. (posted on March 31, 2003)

March 31, 2003
Me too! I do however go to a group therapy for post op women. I think it may depress you until you deal with it. I hate to say that but if you are anything like me you have used food in an unhealthy way for many years and for MANY reasons. I doubt that anyone just "gets over it". As much as I had hoped that surgery would change this stuff it just simply doesn't. I did not want to go to therapy either but I can now tell you that it has been a great help and I do not fear (at least for now) that I will sabotage myself in any way. It is a good thing when you need it. I think we all need a ton of support after this surgery (I mean look at all of the people on this sight!) and taking advantage of it is comforting, encouraging and helpful. Good Luck.
   — Carol S.

March 31, 2003
Classic reason why therapy is a good idea pre and post op. Go talk to someone and shed your negative connotation of therapy. God Bless.
   — Kimberly L.

March 31, 2003
I cried for a few weeks straight after my surgery which I am now 6months post-op, I had open RNY and have now lost 106# and I still eat chips, combos or cheez-its when I have the urge for fattening food....only a few at a time though maybe twice a week or when I have a sweet tooth I just break off a piece of my protien bar and that gives me satisfaction. I do not eat out though , only like 3 times since my surgery and that was my biggest habbit with food. Good luck!
   — Sandy M.

March 31, 2003
I completely understand. They fixed out tummies, but forgot to fix our heads! LOL That's is the main reason why people say that this surgery is a tool, b/c it truly is. Our stomachs do much of it, but what happens when the hunger comes back? It's now up to us. I LOVE food. My TV is tuned into the food network 24 hours a day and I just eat all the time. BUT, I do not graze, I eat every 2 hours (I have stomach issues, so this is another reason why I do it) But I eat pretty healthy. I admit I do have some snacks and a sugar problem, but otherwise, I have 2 protein shakes, one protein bar and 3 meals. Make sure to watch out for sugar and carbs, they just make you hungrier. And drink your water, sometimes it can help you stay full and not want to eat. Are you really upset about the quantity? I understand that, but at the same time, sometimes eating 5-6 meals a day helps, and I am getting in the food and protein I need and want, but still feeling satisfied. If it becomes a big issue and you eventually gain weight, you may have to go to therapy. But try on your own, do you have a support group to go to? It's a hard battle, b/c we have to learn to change some of our old habits, but it can be done. Goodluck to you!
   — Lezlie Y.

March 31, 2003
you'd see an orthopedic specialist if you broke a bone, right? a dentist if you had a toothache? why are you hesitating to see a psychologist if you are depressed and have eating issues?
   — Kasey