Question:
How can I get back on track?!?!?!?!?!?!?

Hi, all. I am at 17 months post-RNY. I originally was at 360 lbs. I'd lost 140 lbs, but recently regained about 15. There's no surprise here: I discovered that CARBS go down easy...protein not so easy. So I've been eating lots of crap. Back to some old habits, sadly. It's been a little rough at home. I guess my question is: Anyone else fall off the wagon this bad and get back on track? I'm doing OK today so far (egg on toast for breakfast, although I probably should have skipped the toast) but the last several months have been bad. I'm not even doing the supplements like I should be. I think I'm looking for some words of support. This whole thing is making me feel like this whole thing isn't going to work for me, like I'm working against myself. HELP!!! Thanks....    — Mary Ellen W. (posted on October 5, 2002)

October 4, 2002
Yes I think that you can get back on track. Physically it's simple, stop taking in more than you are burning. Mentally is a whole other ball of wax. =) Here are some suggestions: 1) Make healthy choices. Example: This morning you could have had an egg white with some low fat cheese on whole wheat toast. 2) Plan meals ahead of time. Prepare or plan each meal the previous day. Limit bread to one meal and make sure it is whole grain. 3) Protein (It fills you up and it's good for you). 4) Don't deny yourself everything or feel guilty when you occassionally indulge. 5) Exercise ****** By the way, I struggle with all of these things as well but this is a lifetime commitment. We may fall off the wagon but that doesn't mean it doesn't work or won't work for us. The biggest disappointment I have with this surgery is my long term expectation. I though I could eat half cup servings and bypass part of that for the rest of my life. I can tell you that that is NOT TRUE for many people. My step dad, sister and I have all had this surgery and quantities are significant. Granted, not as big as before but big enough to cause damage. I hear so many people on here say that they will never diet again and it frightens me. I am on a "diet". I say that it's a "way of life" and I'll be on "it" forever but bottom line is, I eat like dieters do. Everyone should I guess... One thing that is really important to know is that quantities will increase for many people. There are some here that still eat very little and are satisfied but I know of many as well that eat more than 1-2 cup portions... BEWARE!
   — Jeannet

October 4, 2002
I had a rough time at about 7-9 mos post. I suddenly could eat more carbs and just more and DID. I was able to get back on track by upping my protein to 100 grams a day and drinking more water. The more carbs you eat the more you want. I still struggle with this: If I start out the day with carbs, I crave them all day long. I had cereal for breakfast and--you guessed it--I have needed those blasted carbs constantly all day! And felt hypoglycemic too. Contrast this with yesterday when I had protein only for breakfast and was barely hungry when it was time to eat. So try it! Use www.fitday.com or another tracking program until you know what 100 g of protein a day is. I added protein too by using a protien bar as my mid-morning snack. Some of the Atkins ones aren't bad (choc-cocnut and almond brownie are my favorites) and don't have digestible carbs. Be sure you are drinking your water. Get active, even if it is just a little bit here and there. It adds up! Fifteen pounds is nothing . . . You can get rid of that easily. Don't wait until it is 50!
   — ctyst

October 5, 2002
I suggest you don't eat carbs until the end of your day. Not even a piece of toast. 1/2 a protein bar before and after resistance exercise-(a bar or protein "something" with scant carbs ok. Drink the water or liquid frequently - helps to surpress appetite for a little while. And pouch rules for dummies. Make yourself and your surgeon proud.
   — charlene M.