Question:
How do you overcome the constant fear of gaining weight?

I am 13 months post op and have lost 111 lbs. My weight loss has stopped and I would like to lose another 10-15 lbs. I think I am eating too much and have a constant fear of gaining weight. I want to reach my goal. I exercise 7 days a week, drink water and try to get my protein in. I do have issues with carbs. Any suggestions would be appreciated!!! Happy holidays.    — Lori K. (posted on December 22, 2002)

December 22, 2002
Hi Lori, gosh, I think most of us feel the same way-the fear of regaining. Its a real fear and can happen. I think its because pre-op, we always did regain. Always. I am 10 months post-op and on a major plateau. I weigh every day, and have watched the same pound go up and down every other day. In the back of my mind, I think, is this it? Realistically I know its not, but that fear creeps in. And I fear the scale going up and not down. Another reason I weigh every day..Pre-op, I used to avoid the scale if I was gaining. I, too, have issues with carbs, sugar and snacking, and so far it has not made the scale go up, but may be the reason it is not going down. I'm trying now to increase the protein intake and the water intake in the hopes that will get it moving again. Your exercising every day is awesome! Imagine all that great muscle weight! And muscle burns calories more efficently. I think that if you increase the protein and cut out some of the carbs and snacking, you will see it move again. I know, easier said than done...good luck, and congrats on 111....
   — Cindy R.

December 22, 2002
The fear is always there. I use protein supp to keep the carb monster at bay. I MUST use them with my distal RNY, but I choose to use more than required to keep in control of my appetite. After many years, that initial no hunger sorta recedes, and I need some help here. I'm not too proud to do whatever I can to keep me where I am & not put me back into a body whose lungs were not working.
   — vitalady