Question:
I am 61/2 months post-op and since the 1st month have been eating pretzels

Can pretzels hamper your weight loss? I have loss 73lbs thus far. I eat enough until I am full. Seems I am munching on alot at my desk at work. What are your thoughts?    — Susan H. (posted on May 23, 2002)

May 23, 2002
Grazing on almost anything can hinder your weight loss, especially carbo laden snacks like pretzels! If you're adding even 200 calories/day from these pretzels, you're shooting yourself in the foot.
   — Terissa R.

May 23, 2002
I read your profile where you list the things you usually eat and drink. It sounds like pretzels are your only downfall. If you have them on your desk all day at work and you pick at them frequently, then that isn't good. If you grab a handful once or twice a day, I would have to say that that isn't too bad. Its the grazing that will tend to mess you up. But other than that it sounds like you are making some very good food choices. And I'm right there with you, have lost 77 lbs. in 6 1/2 mo, and it has slowed to about 5 lbs. a month. I figure its because I'm so close to goal. Keep up the good work.
   — Cheri M.

May 23, 2002
I agree with the other posters on this issue. I had to re-evaluate what I was eating because I found myself feeling very bloated and just not having a lot of energy. What I discovered was that I was eating WAY TOO MANY carbs. This was my big downfall pre-op and what probably helped me get as obese as I was. I am at an acceptable weight (by the doctor's standard) but would still like to lose another 15 or so pounds. As soon as I cut out almost all carbs other than non-starchy veggies and some fruit, I dropped 4.5 pounds in one week. I hadn't lost a single pound in almost 5 months. Those carbs get stored as fat! Plus they will make you crave more food.
   — livnliter

May 24, 2002
Hi Susan, Pretzels (which qualify as refined carbohydrate) are probably not the best choice of snack right now since you are in the honeymoon phase of WLS. How about stocking your desk with high protein snacks instead. I keep jerky (terriyaki flavor) and smoked almonds in my desk when I feel the urge to nosh on something. This way I get the protein I need, which also helps to stabilize my blood sugar and ward off hunger longer. Refined carbs will tend to make you hungry quicker as they cause your blood sugar to spike and then drop drastically shortly after. If you truly crave the carbohydrates, then you might try bringing some fresh cut up raw vegies to work. These carbohydrates are complex and do not cause your blood sugar to spike like the refined carbs do. My best wishes to you and keep up the great work!
   — artistmama