Question:
8 months post op, down 103 lbs

Hi guys, I am almost 8 months post op and down 103lbs. I started out at 5' 7" 277. I am now 174ish. I have had a real hard time for the past month (husband cheating, new school, moved to a new state) and feel off the gastric bypass wagon. I started drinking alcohol every weekend (have under control now) and eating chocolate every day. I still eat a chocolate covered pretzel or two daily, but have given up the alcohol. I have only lost 4lbs this month (usually I lose 11). I wanted to just get some feedback on my weight loss. I am not done am I? I am still 35lbs from goal. Thanks guys.    — Carla M. (posted on October 14, 2003)

October 14, 2003
Carla- First, I think that if you evaluate your prior loss, you would find that you tend to be a slow loser, so do not be overly concerned about losing 4 pounds this past month. Secondly, given the amount of carbs you are probably consuming with your pretzel treats, if you could switch to an alternative that is lower in carbs, you would probably boost your weight loss. If it's chocolate you crave, try one of the Atkins bars (the Indulgence variety as opposed to the protein bars). Also, don't underestimate the tremendous stress you've been under--- think about a sympathetic friend or counsellor to whom you could vent to help in not needing that daily chocolate covered pretzel. Lastly, try to keep in mind that you are on a lifetime journey in trying to control your use of food-- no journey is without some setbacks-- the trick is to try to figure out how to get re-oriented while holding your family together and dealing with other deeply hurtful happenings. Reaching out for help here is a great first step. Good luck.
   — SteveColarossi

October 14, 2003
Steve has given you some very valuable information, I just want to give you a {{{{{{{{{{{{hug}}}}}}}}}}}}. I've always used food for stress and emotionally situations. I'm sure it's something that I'll have to struggle with post-op. But I congratulate you for coming here and asking for a nudge (and a hug) to get back on track. Blessings, Scout pre-pre-op
   — Marrilee M.

October 14, 2003
I second Steve's advice. I doubt that you're done losing-- and your loss is wonderful. If you take a walk every day it can help deal with some of the stress. Have you looked into any WLS support groups in your new location? I'm sending you a big internet HUG-- having this surgery is stressful enough without having to deal with the rest of the curves life can throw at us!
   — lizinPA

October 14, 2003
Hi sweetie, i i know from experience that depression is difficult you should be sooo proud of yourself for quiting the things u have. I am not sure weather or not to suggest this but i was thinking of going back...and that is over eaters announamous, i found they were a great strength when wishing to turn to food for comfort...big hugs Dawn
   — sweetdarling_ab

October 14, 2003
I have just finished Dr Phil's new book. I am so scared I will return to overeating. I knew that I needed to change my emotional eating patterns or this would all be for nothing. I am sure this is how many of us got the way we were. I can't say enough about the book. It was a real eye opener for me. I feel so much better about my self and feel I now have more control over my stress.
   — Gail O.

October 14, 2003
If all you have done is eat a bit of chocolate a day and have given up the alcohol, with all the stressors in your life, more power to you! Keep in mind that weight loss does slow down, its supposed to. You will not continue to lose 11 pounds a month when you are only 35 from goal and 8 months post-op whether you eat chocolate or not. No, your not done, it will just come off slower. But you can help it along by not overindulging and keeping up with the protein, water, and most importantly, the exercise. I don't see any problem with having a little chocolate daily. As long as you account for the calories in your overall amount for the day, you'll do fine.
   — Cindy R.

October 14, 2003
Hope things get better for you! Stay Strong. But, the majority of my loss was in the first 7 months...100 pounds and then I lost only about 13-15 more within the next 6 months or so and have maintained this. I am two years plus post-op and we are all very different, but the loss after 6-8 months will slow down. Where you will stop only your body knows for sure. I was 5 ft 4 in and 268 and am maintaining at 155. Best Wishes!
   — Molly S.

January 27, 2007
HOW MANY COLORIES SHOULD YOU CONSUME SEVEN MONTH POST OP STARTED AT 268 DOWN TO 197 2ND HAS ANY ONE GOTTEN SHRINGLES AFTER THE SURGERY
   — jeankay