Question:
Have there been any long-term post ops that have gained weight...

like maybe 10 pounds or so, and then successfully LOST it again? I am curious as to how you did this, if you just went back to the basics or what? I need to lose a few that I've recently gained due to poor eating habits (stress eating) returning and I need to figure out how to do it! Any advice on how you did it is appreciated!! Hugs!    — michelle T. (posted on September 22, 2003)

September 22, 2003
I am in the same boat!! I will be 2 years post in about 6 weeks and my window is obviously closed. I am not pleased with that as I have gained 10 lbs. since the end of spring. My body wants to do something different than what I had in mind. My eating habits are the same, I don't eat junk, so I don't understand why this is happening. I HAD gained 14, and I lost 4 by doing the protein shake 'fast' but as soon as I started eating normal (healthy), I stopped losing. I want to eat food during the day, not depend on liquid. I am so frustrated right now. I had already gotten rid of all my clothes in size 12, and now my 10's are snug. This isn't what I had planned. I feel great, but I felt better 10 lbs. lighter!! Let me know if you find something that works.
   — Cheri M.

September 22, 2003
Hi Michelle, it is not unusual with post-ops to have a 10 percent weight gain at about the 2-2 1/2 year mark. I think this is what has happened to Cheri. There is no secret to losing weight, its back to basics. Eating less calories, examining if bad eating habits have crept in, upping the heart pumping regularly scheduled exercise and drinking more water. Since you say that you have gained due to poor eating habits, thats your answer. Cut it out! I think as a post-op I'm finding weight loss/dieting easier than it was pre-op. I'm 19 mo post op and weigh daily. I do gain 2 pounds (why 2 at a time, hell if I know) rather easily and then have to cut out some snacks and up the exercise for several days to make it go away. I attack it while it is just 2 pounds... Good news is that it goes away without too much effort. Luckily your catching it before it turns into 10 or more pounds! There are many post-ops who gain significant amounts of weight back, by forgetting pouch rules, slacking off the exercise, and going back to old habits. I'm sure you have heard the saying about the pouch being just a tool?
   — Cindy R.

September 25, 2003
Yes, bsides the initial bounce back, you mean? I've gained twice. Both from sugar incidents, one of which was fruit. I agained 6# thr first time & about 8 the 2nd. I went cold turkey on sugar & they pounds fell off. They are RIGHT there waiting for me at all times.
   — vitalady