Question:
I have a question regarding long-term effects of

I'm a five month post-op, down 72 pounds (yea!), and was wondering? Does the "dumping" and lactose intolerance subside eventually? I'm pretty careful about what I eat, protein first, low fat, low carb, that sort of thing. But, I have been known to slip occasionally, having a small piece of candy or two (at the most). I know when I must stop, as I "dump". I was the epitome of a "sugar addict" and just a piece or two, every once in a while satisfies my craving. But, it seems that from what I've read, after the "honeymoon phase", things change. To be honest, I don't want the "dumping" to subside, as I think that this may be, in addition to much better eating habits, my salvation. If I know I will get sick, there will be more incentive to stay away from the bad stuff. Anybody out there who's been a post-op for a while know the answer? I know everyone's different, I'm just looking for peer experience. Thanks!    — Cindy R. (posted on March 5, 2001)

March 5, 2001
I am 16 months post-op from a Lap proximal RNY. I initially was lactose intolerant and really watched the sugar. I can now drink a small latte if I sip it slowly and tolerate a piece of cheese on my open face sandwich at lunch. Sugar and carbs (such as breads/cakes) will make me ill if I eat too much too fast. I am fine with one or two pieces of candy, but a whole candy bar is out of the question. Right after surgery I would feel ill at the first bite. Now it takes a while before that ill feeling sets in. So if I let my taste buds rule my brain I can still make myself pretty ill by not stopping when I should.
   — Jilda H.

March 5, 2001
I haven't tested the lactose since about 16 months out. I know it has no purpose for me but to put fat back on me, so not even going there. I know if I am casual with sugar even for a few days that I have lowered my dump level. I also know that I can reset my dump-o-meter by going cold turkey for a week or so on sugar, then a small dose will make me wish I had NEVER touched it. That's at 6.5 yrs. My husband, too. If he eats a little every day, his tolerance increases. So, I make him reset it now & then. We've both toyed with gaining a few lbs due to getting lazy about reading labels for sugar and such. I've gained & lost 6 sugar lbs, he is struggling with 10-15 right now. First it was 1/3 of a donut at work, maybe once/month. Now, it's 2-3 whole donuts every time they're served. But he was not pleased to find that of 6 prs of pants I bought him, all 6 were mis-marked in the size? Yeah, right. I think he's already dropped 5-6 of 'em, as his shirts aren't gapping! I'm like you, it's miserable, but it's all that keeps me safe, I think.
   — vitalady

March 5, 2001
Sugar tolerance gets better the longer post-op you are as well as with the amount of exercise you get. I find that the more exercise I get, the more I tolerate sugar. I'm in training for a mini-marathon in April (13 miles) and a triathalon (run/bike/swim) this summer. I run 4-5 miles 3-4x a week, following by machine weights, power lifting, and swimming. I have to make up the calories somwewhere. Sometimes I come home and even have a bowl of frosted flakes. Yes, I have protein powder, and granola bars are nice, but other times you just can't beat a Butterfingers. BTW, if you're lactose intolerant, you can still have cheese.
   — blank first name B.