winning_by_losing

I'm not "trying" a low carb diet, I'm doing it. I focus on Protein -- getting 60 grams a day (goal set by my doctor and NUT). If I eat that much Protein, I have little room left for anything else. I usually get around 60 grams of carbs (all from fruits and vegetables or beans) a day. Maybe 30 grams of sugar if I have a couple of pieces of fruit. Almost no bread. I will eat a "sandwich" from half of a whole wheat deli thin every now and then or maybe a wrap using half of a whole wheat tortilla, but even those usually make me feel a little uncomfortable and once the tortilla from the wrap made me dump.
I consider this my normal way of eating and have no plans of changing. I don't feel the urge for carbs or sugar anymore. When I get somewhere I feel like is goal and go into maintenance of that, I plan to just add in more veggies and continue to avoid the processed carbs.
This is not a diet -- it's a new way of eating and it's working and I feel wonderful.

I did. I started out at 419.
I know the feeling though, as I often saw these goals of people wanting to lose 70 or 100 pounds thinking to myself that wouldn't even make a dent in what I need to do.
When I sat down and thought about things I thought to myself if there was any way I could lose 200 pounds I'd be ecstatic. Unfortunately the more I read, the more I started doubting that it was possible. So I then convinced myself I'd be "happy" if I could lose 150 or more.
Luckily, as I progressed, I got to that point and realized there was no reason for the pessimism. I finally was able to reaffirm that my original goal was legit and as long as I stuck to the plan it would be achievable.
Fast forward to last week (9/24) I actually hit that goal, weighing in at 218.6 that morning. I've since lost a few more pounds, though I'm not trying to alter my goal, nor am I really doing anything to push myself any further, just continuing to eat the same way I have, keeping up the exercise routines and living this MUCH happier life. Eventually my body will settle into whatever the new me is supposed to weigh, but as long as I don't slip up and start going back up, I'm more than happy where I'm at right now.

I appreciate the kind words.
I am happy to share my experience if it can provide help, encouragement, motivation or just a positive attitude for anyone else who is choosing to embark on this journey along with us.

I did. I started out at 419.
I know the feeling though, as I often saw these goals of people wanting to lose 70 or 100 pounds thinking to myself that wouldn't even make a dent in what I need to do.
When I sat down and thought about things I thought to myself if there was any way I could lose 200 pounds I'd be ecstatic. Unfortunately the more I read, the more I started doubting that it was possible. So I then convinced myself I'd be "happy" if I could lose 150 or more.
Luckily, as I progressed, I got to that point and realized there was no reason for the pessimism. I finally was able to reaffirm that my original goal was legit and as long as I stuck to the plan it would be achievable.
Fast forward to last week (9/24) I actually hit that goal, weighing in at 218.6 that morning. I've since lost a few more pounds, though I'm not trying to alter my goal, nor am I really doing anything to push myself any further, just continuing to eat the same way I have, keeping up the exercise routines and living this MUCH happier life. Eventually my body will settle into whatever the new me is supposed to weigh, but as long as I don't slip up and start going back up, I'm more than happy where I'm at right now.

It looks like you had the sleeve, so I can't offer much advice there as I had Bypass (like most who will respond here in the Bypass forum) but...
I felt the same way in the beginning. I even started to question whether they just poked a few holes, stuck in some stitches and took my life savings.
Luckily, once I got to what I call "real food" stages, I definitely noticed the difference.
I still don't have issues like I read/hear about people not being able to drink more than a sip every few minutes. I can drink 3 or 4 good gulps at a time and when really thirsty can polish off an entire glass in 3 or 4 minutes.
I always felt like I ate too much when I had Soup so after the first few days I gave up on it and moved into other foods. I still avoid soup most of the time for the same reason, though chili is a good emergency go-to when I'm out or can't find a good option in a restaurant. I just make sure to really limit myself to a small cup.

To be honest, I wish this would have happened to me.
After the topic of what we all paid out of pocket came up in a support group meeting a month or two ago, I found out that even with my insurance coverage, my out-of-pocket cost was close to double that of what the self-pay folks were paying. Worst part is - one of them went through my same surgeon and paid $9,000 less than I did.
Bottom line - I'd start calling around and doing some investigation before getting too frustrated. You may find out that this is a blessing in disguise and you'll end up paying less in the long run.

I started out thinking exactly that same way. As I was dropping sizes like crazy (6 shirt sizes and 8 pant sizes) I tried to buy everything I could from either the thrift shops or wal-mart.
I then realized with the amount of money I'm saving on food now I could afford to buy a couple of somewhat nicer items in each size (usually 2 pairs of pants and 2 shirts). I then could do some mixing and matching with other not-so-nice items and it felt like my wardrobe was at least acceptable. Yes I ended up donating all of it, but it really helped my sense of self-perception throughout this transition and I'm very happy to have done it.

I did. I started out at 419.
I know the feeling though, as I often saw these goals of people wanting to lose 70 or 100 pounds thinking to myself that wouldn't even make a dent in what I need to do.
When I sat down and thought about things I thought to myself if there was any way I could lose 200 pounds I'd be ecstatic. Unfortunately the more I read, the more I started doubting that it was possible. So I then convinced myself I'd be "happy" if I could lose 150 or more.
Luckily, as I progressed, I got to that point and realized there was no reason for the pessimism. I finally was able to reaffirm that my original goal was legit and as long as I stuck to the plan it would be achievable.
Fast forward to last week (9/24) I actually hit that goal, weighing in at 218.6 that morning. I've since lost a few more pounds, though I'm not trying to alter my goal, nor am I really doing anything to push myself any further, just continuing to eat the same way I have, keeping up the exercise routines and living this MUCH happier life. Eventually my body will settle into whatever the new me is supposed to weigh, but as long as I don't slip up and start going back up, I'm more than happy where I'm at right now.

To be honest, I wish this would have happened to me.
After the topic of what we all paid out of pocket came up in a support group meeting a month or two ago, I found out that even with my insurance coverage, my out-of-pocket cost was close to double that of what the self-pay folks were paying. Worst part is - one of them went through my same surgeon and paid $9,000 less than I did.
Bottom line - I'd start calling around and doing some investigation before getting too frustrated. You may find out that this is a blessing in disguise and you'll end up paying less in the long run.

I appreciate the kind words.
I am happy to share my experience if it can provide help, encouragement, motivation or just a positive attitude for anyone else who is choosing to embark on this journey along with us.

I did. I started out at 419.
I know the feeling though, as I often saw these goals of people wanting to lose 70 or 100 pounds thinking to myself that wouldn't even make a dent in what I need to do.
When I sat down and thought about things I thought to myself if there was any way I could lose 200 pounds I'd be ecstatic. Unfortunately the more I read, the more I started doubting that it was possible. So I then convinced myself I'd be "happy" if I could lose 150 or more.
Luckily, as I progressed, I got to that point and realized there was no reason for the pessimism. I finally was able to reaffirm that my original goal was legit and as long as I stuck to the plan it would be achievable.
Fast forward to last week (9/24) I actually hit that goal, weighing in at 218.6 that morning. I've since lost a few more pounds, though I'm not trying to alter my goal, nor am I really doing anything to push myself any further, just continuing to eat the same way I have, keeping up the exercise routines and living this MUCH happier life. Eventually my body will settle into whatever the new me is supposed to weigh, but as long as I don't slip up and start going back up, I'm more than happy where I'm at right now.

I appreciate the kind words.
I am happy to share my experience if it can provide help, encouragement, motivation or just a positive attitude for anyone else who is choosing to embark on this journey along with us.

I did. I started out at 419.
I know the feeling though, as I often saw these goals of people wanting to lose 70 or 100 pounds thinking to myself that wouldn't even make a dent in what I need to do.
When I sat down and thought about things I thought to myself if there was any way I could lose 200 pounds I'd be ecstatic. Unfortunately the more I read, the more I started doubting that it was possible. So I then convinced myself I'd be "happy" if I could lose 150 or more.
Luckily, as I progressed, I got to that point and realized there was no reason for the pessimism. I finally was able to reaffirm that my original goal was legit and as long as I stuck to the plan it would be achievable.
Fast forward to last week (9/24) I actually hit that goal, weighing in at 218.6 that morning. I've since lost a few more pounds, though I'm not trying to alter my goal, nor am I really doing anything to push myself any further, just continuing to eat the same way I have, keeping up the exercise routines and living this MUCH happier life. Eventually my body will settle into whatever the new me is supposed to weigh, but as long as I don't slip up and start going back up, I'm more than happy where I'm at right now.

I have almost enjoyed traveling now post-surgery.
I do pack enough Protein bars to make sure lunch and dinner are covered for the entire trip (just in case).
I try to get a room with a fridge now so I can buy some RTD Protein shakes as well. Most of the time this works, but when it doesn't, I've found that filling an ice bucket around a Protein shake will chill it enough overnight that it is fine for Breakfast in the morning.
I've never been a bit coffee/tea guy so I never pay attention to the options but I would try asking the front desk for some tea bags. I can't imagine any major hotel chain that wouldn't give them to you.

I couldn't find the actual study, but here is an October 2012 article about it that mentions a November issue of "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery"
http://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/past-press-releases/2012-archives/body-contouring-brings-lasting-improvement-in-quality-of-life-after-weight-loss-surgery.html

I run into similar issues whenever I visit India or Singapore. Since I've yet to see GNC or Vitamin Shoppe overseas, I am usually forced to bring everything with me. That is where the Protein bars come in super handy. I'm a huge fan of the Quest bars as they have 20+ grams of Protein, very little sugar and very few total carbs. They work as a full meal and are quite easy to pack in my luggage (plus a couple in my carry-on).
I also always keep a small bag of almonds with me just in case, but watch out as they're really high in calories (though they are good on the protein). Beyond that, lunchmeat is a big go-to wherever I am. It is found easily, gives a few options for variety and supplies the protein I need.
In the airports, I look for meaty chili. It is usually pretty high in protein and cost effective as well as you typically don't have to pay for a full meal, just a cup of Soup.
If you're traveling domestically, I'd recommend checking for a GNC or Vitamin Shoppe in the city you're going to. It may prevent you from having to pack everything and you could replenish your supply mid-trip.

Yeah, from what I heard the program we have to go through is much more robust than many others. But I will say that all of the great information I learned in the months leading up to surgery through these classes, the support groups, the friends and family meetings and all of the medical appointments really prepared me for what to expect after surgery. I attribute most of my success to the details they armed me with, so all I have had to do so far was stick to the program.

I did. I started out at 419.
I know the feeling though, as I often saw these goals of people wanting to lose 70 or 100 pounds thinking to myself that wouldn't even make a dent in what I need to do.
When I sat down and thought about things I thought to myself if there was any way I could lose 200 pounds I'd be ecstatic. Unfortunately the more I read, the more I started doubting that it was possible. So I then convinced myself I'd be "happy" if I could lose 150 or more.
Luckily, as I progressed, I got to that point and realized there was no reason for the pessimism. I finally was able to reaffirm that my original goal was legit and as long as I stuck to the plan it would be achievable.
Fast forward to last week (9/24) I actually hit that goal, weighing in at 218.6 that morning. I've since lost a few more pounds, though I'm not trying to alter my goal, nor am I really doing anything to push myself any further, just continuing to eat the same way I have, keeping up the exercise routines and living this MUCH happier life. Eventually my body will settle into whatever the new me is supposed to weigh, but as long as I don't slip up and start going back up, I'm more than happy where I'm at right now.

Wow. Congrats. I won't ever be able to say that, but I'll blame that on having a 32" inseam.
I have heard that same statement from a few folks. I've always questioned whether they truly feel that way or whether they're thinking of it as a compliment.
I know none of these folks can see what I truly see and how much is really still there to lose, so regardless of their motivation, I try to take it as a compliment and typically respond with something like "thank you but my body will stop me when I'm at the right point". I doubt anyone would say anything like that to be rude, especially if they knew us before the surgery, but I guess there could be a bad apple somewhere.

As with just about everything, each bariatric program and frequently each surgeon has differing opinions on just about every aspect of the post-surgery journey.
For me personally, I don't think I'd have made it to where I am today without my Premier Protein shakes. I hit my goal right at 7 months post-op and owe much of it to my shake for Breakfast. Unlike some others, they keep me full for a good 5-7 hours until lunchtime so the huge Protein boost with very low calories allows me to know I have a huge head start on the rest of the day.
I have no idea how long I will continue to make a Protein Shake my Breakfast of choice, but as of right now I don't see an end in the very near future.
Bottom line - I'd go with the program that your bariatric team recommends. If for some reason you find that it doesn't work for you over time, there are tons of other programs that others follow and as you can see we're all more than willing to share details if they can help others. Best of luck with the journey regardless.

I did. I started out at 419.
I know the feeling though, as I often saw these goals of people wanting to lose 70 or 100 pounds thinking to myself that wouldn't even make a dent in what I need to do.
When I sat down and thought about things I thought to myself if there was any way I could lose 200 pounds I'd be ecstatic. Unfortunately the more I read, the more I started doubting that it was possible. So I then convinced myself I'd be "happy" if I could lose 150 or more.
Luckily, as I progressed, I got to that point and realized there was no reason for the pessimism. I finally was able to reaffirm that my original goal was legit and as long as I stuck to the plan it would be achievable.
Fast forward to last week (9/24) I actually hit that goal, weighing in at 218.6 that morning. I've since lost a few more pounds, though I'm not trying to alter my goal, nor am I really doing anything to push myself any further, just continuing to eat the same way I have, keeping up the exercise routines and living this MUCH happier life. Eventually my body will settle into whatever the new me is supposed to weigh, but as long as I don't slip up and start going back up, I'm more than happy where I'm at right now.

It looks like you had the sleeve, so I can't offer much advice there as I had Bypass (like most who will respond here in the Bypass forum) but...
I felt the same way in the beginning. I even started to question whether they just poked a few holes, stuck in some stitches and took my life savings.
Luckily, once I got to what I call "real food" stages, I definitely noticed the difference.
I still don't have issues like I read/hear about people not being able to drink more than a sip every few minutes. I can drink 3 or 4 good gulps at a time and when really thirsty can polish off an entire glass in 3 or 4 minutes.
I always felt like I ate too much when I had Soup so after the first few days I gave up on it and moved into other foods. I still avoid soup most of the time for the same reason, though chili is a good emergency go-to when I'm out or can't find a good option in a restaurant. I just make sure to really limit myself to a small cup.

As with just about everything, each bariatric program and frequently each surgeon has differing opinions on just about every aspect of the post-surgery journey.
For me personally, I don't think I'd have made it to where I am today without my Premier Protein shakes. I hit my goal right at 7 months post-op and owe much of it to my shake for Breakfast. Unlike some others, they keep me full for a good 5-7 hours until lunchtime so the huge Protein boost with very low calories allows me to know I have a huge head start on the rest of the day.
I have no idea how long I will continue to make a Protein Shake my Breakfast of choice, but as of right now I don't see an end in the very near future.
Bottom line - I'd go with the program that your bariatric team recommends. If for some reason you find that it doesn't work for you over time, there are tons of other programs that others follow and as you can see we're all more than willing to share details if they can help others. Best of luck with the journey regardless.

Almonds was the most surprising to me. I knew nuts in general were high, but for some reason I had been tricked into thinking Almonds weren't that bad.
After seeing that each one is 7 calories (that is of course the raw, unflavored ones), my jaw hit the floor.
Luckily I noticed after eating 3 of them, but even if you were to get the little tiny airplane size bag those have to be getting close to 300 calories. Yikes.

Almonds was the most surprising to me. I knew nuts in general were high, but for some reason I had been tricked into thinking Almonds weren't that bad.
After seeing that each one is 7 calories (that is of course the raw, unflavored ones), my jaw hit the floor.
Luckily I noticed after eating 3 of them, but even if you were to get the little tiny airplane size bag those have to be getting close to 300 calories. Yikes.