lisamedinafw

Carnitas is braised pork used in soft tacos usually. Quite tasty!

Fajitas! Didn't eat much---lots of delicious leftovers!

I had a drain for a week. It was so bizarre to have it removed! Doc just pulled it across my midsection! Hubby, who is a surgical nurse, took care of it before it was removed.

I am 4-years post op, and I'm glad to see all of you enjoying your GOOD and GOOD-FOR-YOU meals.

I agree! Dumping can help you know what you can tolerate. Stay away from what your doctors tell you to stay away from. And learn from choices and mistakes. It's a learning experience!

Sounds great! I hardly do any kind of noodle, but I know that my family would love it! Sometimes, it's all about them!

I meant overCOOK.

I tend to overlook frozen salmon filets. I definitely need to make a sauce to go on them!

Boy, I remember those days!

Non-surgical victories.

I have become very aware and sensitive to people I am close to who still struggle with these issues. My brother and my best friend are both considerably overweight. When I'm out with either one of them I make an effort to ask for a table instead of a booth so they'll be more comfortable. I remember what it was like to not fit in a booth!

Keep drinking all day, sit down whenever you can, remind the people around you that you may not be 100% so they can keep an eye on you. You're going to be GREAT.

Renee, I had bypass 4 years ago, never regretted my decision! I had high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and I was pre-diabetic. All symptoms gone! I have lost 110, maintained it overall. I thought it was a drastic decision too. But it was also life-saving for me. I hope you have peace about your decision. For me, it has been a fabulous journey!

I totally agree with the 'billboard' analogy. I am 4 years post-op. About 2 years out, I decided I DESERVED to treat myself to alcohol. I have struggled since then with transfer-addiction, and put BACK ON 25 of the 110 pounds that I worked so hard to lose! My RNY testimony has been shot full of holes! I have finally decided that what I DESERVE is to WIN with this tool! Back on track! No wine, eating right and exercising again. Nine pounds off!

Check out ncescatalog.com. My NUT recommended it after my surgery. It has some tools you can use. I bought the bariatric starter kit. Believe it or not, the little plate with the measurements for food helped me stay disciplined. 4 years post-op, doing great!

Is your doctor looking at your BMI? It is surprising what a ''healthy" weight is on that chart.

I am 4 years post-op. Plain white bread hurts my pouch, even now. I have gotten used to whole grain- the denser, the better. I have had a resurgence of desire for continued success, so for the last two weeks I have avoided any processed carbs. I want to stay in control of my choices and habits, so not eating breads, etc helps me to stay in control.

I think there has to be a medical need, such as infection where the skin is rubbing

I would caution anyone who has struggled with food addiction to be careful with alcohol after surgery. I am 4 years post-op, started drinking 2 years ago, and it has really messed me up. I thought I could handle it, thought I DESERVED it. I have gained 15 pounds back, and lost a lot of evenings that I ended up inebriated. It is NOT worth it for me. I have a friend who also had RNY that is giving me support, and I am going to KICK this addiction to the curb!

Some burger places will put your burger between two lettuce leaves instead of the bun. And just taking home the extras works too. I sometimes ask for the to-go box when my meal comes so I can box up half and not be overwhelmed with the whole meal.

Thanks for sharing! I am four years post-op with some regain, but I'm working on it. Keep exercising, and avoid that slurry! When you set your final goal, remember to look at a healthy BMI, which is under 25. Keep it up!

Ilenerm, thanks for addressing the alcohol issue. Anytime us RNY'ers try to re-write the plan, we will not succeed!

I am 4 years post-op. The key, I think, is to continue to eat the right foods. Concentrate on protein, make sure you're taking your supplements. I have never been able to drink huge amounts of water at one time---it does fill me quickly. If you're concerned about your pouch stretching, check out www.5daypouchtest.com. And maybe find a bypass support group in your area. A nurse leading the group may have answers for you.

I posted this on another thread: be sure that you don't develop a transfer addiction with alcohol. It's very easy to convince yourself that you DESERVE a treat for being 'good,' and suddenly you're in the throes of another addiction! I speak from experience---I am currently detoxing from a ridiculous wine habit. SO DUMB--wasted calories and wasted time toward my goal of taking care of myself and living a healthy life.

I just celebrated four years and 110 pounds lost on Dec. 30. I encourage you to maintain some support and never become complacent. If a food addiction has been part of your life, do not allow something else (like alcohol) to take its place. Use this tool/gift with wisdom and respect!