dashofsunshine

Hey y'all! Checking in!
2.5 years post op
SW: 323
CW: 153
Size 24/26 to a 4/6
No skin removal

Thanks all!! You guys are too kind <3
As far as skin goes, I have more questions about that than most any other issue. I have many friends who lost 30-50 lbs less than I did, around my same age (28), and were left with folds of excess skin.
It's highly uncommon to be left with so little after a weight loss as large as mine - and I wish I had words of advice for the many people who ask me daily what my "secret" was!
The truth is, your excess skin (or lack thereof) will have more to do with your age, general body composition, skin elasticity, and genetics, than it will have to do with anything you do externally.
I exercise and use regular lotion on my skin every night. That's it. That's all I've "done" to have so little excess skin. I chalk it up to a whoooooole lot of prayer and good skin tone & natural elasticity, honestly!

Thanks for the kind words, all!!
As as far as diet advice, during rapid weight loss I followed my surgeons plan to a T. I just kept losing and losing. I got to 10 lbs below goal (my goal weight was 163 lbs) and started adding back in some complex carbs to stop the weight loss. I've been in the 150-153 lbs range ever since.
FWIW, I still can't eat 4 oz in one sitting. I usually max out at around 6 bites of anything. I still eat high Protein, moderate fat, low carb - usually 50 or less carbs per day - and I count total carbs, not net carbs. During rapid weight loss I stuck to less than 15 per day.
I eat around 1,000 calories a day, sometimes a few extra if it's a long run or heavy workout day. I eat mostly protein and veggies, with an occasional serving of quinoa or a slice of sprouted whole grain toast with PB2 in the morning.
I cook every morning, pack lunches for myself and my husband, and also cook dinner every night. I've learned how to use herbs and spices to flavor my food and I really do enjoy cooking delicious and unique meals - we don't do boring, lol.
Oh, and I still only drink Water, one 6 oz cup of coffee every morning, and dry red or white wine.
All of this is my day to day norm, obviously - but if we have a date night, I'll eat a few bites of my husband's Pasta, or we'll share some cheesecake moderation is the spice of life!

Thanks for the kind words, all!!
As as far as diet advice, during rapid weight loss I followed my surgeons plan to a T. I just kept losing and losing. I got to 10 lbs below goal (my goal weight was 163 lbs) and started adding back in some complex carbs to stop the weight loss. I've been in the 150-153 lbs range ever since.
FWIW, I still can't eat 4 oz in one sitting. I usually max out at around 6 bites of anything. I still eat high Protein, moderate fat, low carb - usually 50 or less carbs per day - and I count total carbs, not net carbs. During rapid weight loss I stuck to less than 15 per day.
I eat around 1,000 calories a day, sometimes a few extra if it's a long run or heavy workout day. I eat mostly protein and veggies, with an occasional serving of quinoa or a slice of sprouted whole grain toast with PB2 in the morning.
I cook every morning, pack lunches for myself and my husband, and also cook dinner every night. I've learned how to use herbs and spices to flavor my food and I really do enjoy cooking delicious and unique meals - we don't do boring, lol.
Oh, and I still only drink Water, one 6 oz cup of coffee every morning, and dry red or white wine.
All of this is my day to day norm, obviously - but if we have a date night, I'll eat a few bites of my husband's Pasta, or we'll share some cheesecake moderation is the spice of life!

Hi guys!
I get on here every six months or so to update y'all I've never made a topic with progress pictures before, so I thought I would this time, as I've been maintaining below goal for almost a year now.
SW: 323
CW: 153
Size 24/26 to a 4/6
No skin removal
I ran my first half marathon in February and am running another in November, which is pretty cool! When not in race training mode, I run 3-6 miles, three days per week, and do HIIT style training (heavy weights and cardio) at the gym 2-3 other days per week. I tend to fluctuate between 150-153 lbs, depending on the time of month and just general day to day food/water intake.

Hi guys!
I get on here every six months or so to update y'all I've never made a topic with progress pictures before, so I thought I would this time, as I've been maintaining below goal for almost a year now.
SW: 323
CW: 153
Size 24/26 to a 4/6
No skin removal
I ran my first half marathon in February and am running another in November, which is pretty cool! When not in race training mode, I run 3-6 miles, three days per week, and do HIIT style training (heavy weights and cardio) at the gym 2-3 other days per week. I tend to fluctuate between 150-153 lbs, depending on the time of month and just general day to day food/water intake.

Thanks for the kind words, all!!
As as far as diet advice, during rapid weight loss I followed my surgeons plan to a T. I just kept losing and losing. I got to 10 lbs below goal (my goal weight was 163 lbs) and started adding back in some complex carbs to stop the weight loss. I've been in the 150-153 lbs range ever since.
FWIW, I still can't eat 4 oz in one sitting. I usually max out at around 6 bites of anything. I still eat high Protein, moderate fat, low carb - usually 50 or less carbs per day - and I count total carbs, not net carbs. During rapid weight loss I stuck to less than 15 per day.
I eat around 1,000 calories a day, sometimes a few extra if it's a long run or heavy workout day. I eat mostly protein and veggies, with an occasional serving of quinoa or a slice of sprouted whole grain toast with PB2 in the morning.
I cook every morning, pack lunches for myself and my husband, and also cook dinner every night. I've learned how to use herbs and spices to flavor my food and I really do enjoy cooking delicious and unique meals - we don't do boring, lol.
Oh, and I still only drink Water, one 6 oz cup of coffee every morning, and dry red or white wine.
All of this is my day to day norm, obviously - but if we have a date night, I'll eat a few bites of my husband's Pasta, or we'll share some cheesecake moderation is the spice of life!

Thanks for the kind words, all!!
As as far as diet advice, during rapid weight loss I followed my surgeons plan to a T. I just kept losing and losing. I got to 10 lbs below goal (my goal weight was 163 lbs) and started adding back in some complex carbs to stop the weight loss. I've been in the 150-153 lbs range ever since.
FWIW, I still can't eat 4 oz in one sitting. I usually max out at around 6 bites of anything. I still eat high Protein, moderate fat, low carb - usually 50 or less carbs per day - and I count total carbs, not net carbs. During rapid weight loss I stuck to less than 15 per day.
I eat around 1,000 calories a day, sometimes a few extra if it's a long run or heavy workout day. I eat mostly protein and veggies, with an occasional serving of quinoa or a slice of sprouted whole grain toast with PB2 in the morning.
I cook every morning, pack lunches for myself and my husband, and also cook dinner every night. I've learned how to use herbs and spices to flavor my food and I really do enjoy cooking delicious and unique meals - we don't do boring, lol.
Oh, and I still only drink Water, one 6 oz cup of coffee every morning, and dry red or white wine.
All of this is my day to day norm, obviously - but if we have a date night, I'll eat a few bites of my husband's Pasta, or we'll share some cheesecake moderation is the spice of life!

Hi guys!
I get on here every six months or so to update y'all I've never made a topic with progress pictures before, so I thought I would this time, as I've been maintaining below goal for almost a year now.
SW: 323
CW: 153
Size 24/26 to a 4/6
No skin removal
I ran my first half marathon in February and am running another in November, which is pretty cool! When not in race training mode, I run 3-6 miles, three days per week, and do HIIT style training (heavy weights and cardio) at the gym 2-3 other days per week. I tend to fluctuate between 150-153 lbs, depending on the time of month and just general day to day food/water intake.

Thanks for the kind words, all!!
As as far as diet advice, during rapid weight loss I followed my surgeons plan to a T. I just kept losing and losing. I got to 10 lbs below goal (my goal weight was 163 lbs) and started adding back in some complex carbs to stop the weight loss. I've been in the 150-153 lbs range ever since.
FWIW, I still can't eat 4 oz in one sitting. I usually max out at around 6 bites of anything. I still eat high Protein, moderate fat, low carb - usually 50 or less carbs per day - and I count total carbs, not net carbs. During rapid weight loss I stuck to less than 15 per day.
I eat around 1,000 calories a day, sometimes a few extra if it's a long run or heavy workout day. I eat mostly protein and veggies, with an occasional serving of quinoa or a slice of sprouted whole grain toast with PB2 in the morning.
I cook every morning, pack lunches for myself and my husband, and also cook dinner every night. I've learned how to use herbs and spices to flavor my food and I really do enjoy cooking delicious and unique meals - we don't do boring, lol.
Oh, and I still only drink Water, one 6 oz cup of coffee every morning, and dry red or white wine.
All of this is my day to day norm, obviously - but if we have a date night, I'll eat a few bites of my husband's Pasta, or we'll share some cheesecake moderation is the spice of life!

I’m 8 years out from surgery. Highest weight was 399 and today I’m 168. Throughout those years I’ve lost and gained. Emotional eating was paramount during stressful times. However, surgery is a tool as expressed earlier. It’s making the decision to accept what’s important to you by any means necessary. If getting your eating under control is a struggle, then take a week or so to reflect on what the core cause is. Are you eating trigger foods? Is the stress of being a new mom taking over (congrats and welcome to motherhood). Put yourself first and really get down to the root cause. Even if that means booking an appointment with a therapist. It takes time so be patient with yourself.

When I feel like back peddling I call my accountability partner and food vent or I go to IG and just read the profiles of those who inspire me.

Go back to the basics. As you’ve stated plan your meals ahead of time. It’s a pain to do but once done, it makes it easier to stay on track. Work to move your body every day. Be very mindful of why and what you’re eating. And make changes slowly. The tool works if you work it right. Sending positive vibes your way. [emoji177]

The "pouch reset" is actually only a exercise in habit reform. You most likely did not stretch your sleeve. I say "most likely" because it is a very rare thing for a properly performed VSG to stretch. The esophageal sphincter or the pylorus will weaken long before the sleeve will stretch enough to cause tears that heal back with a larger volume over and over again. Or if someone had bypass, the opening created in the intestine could be stretched which would allow food to go through too quickly.
The pouch reset is a name given to reverting back to the post-op basics. Fluids for a short time, then soft foods, then dense Proteins. It is an exercise designed to train your mind to recognize the sensation of fullness.
So are you too far gone? No, of course not. The only question is how important is it to you to make the change that is necessary. Don't think about eating less crap, think of not eating that crap at all. There is no need for it. I will admit that I miss the convenience of fast food, but I do not miss anything else about it. I am actually quite proud of myself that I have not had a fast food sandwhich in almost 3 years.

You haven’t experienced what the op has gone through. You haven’t experienced pregnancy post wls. You are still in early days and think it’s all smooth sailing. And it’s all about choices. I’m sorry to tell you, it isn’t that simple. In a few years things will likely be different for you too.
I hear a lot of fear in the tone of your posts and I understand it is scary that maybe what you are getting out of surgery right now won’t last, and you may regain. It’s terrifying. It terrified me and scares me still at times. But being crude and rude to people on here isn’t the answer. If you are having success, good for you. But it’s a good idea to listen with an open ear because some day you may be struggling too. Wls is not a permanent solution. The restriction most people get is temporary. Somenever get it at all.
No matter how much weight you have lost- it doesn’t give you the right to judge others. The op is on here asking for support not to be told she’s a failure by her own lack of willpower. I’m sure she is trying as hard as she can.
For some reason your statement “I’ve seen you around Bella bloom!!!!” Makes me chuckle. I’m like, the dark specter of bariatric pal... lurking...around...every....corner... with .... a smile.

I think I found your problem.

you are an inspiration!!! you look fabulous!!!

Sent from my SM-G930VL using BariatricPal mobile app

You look great! You look completely different! Wow, I am so amazed to be honest! Great job!

Hey y'all! Checking in!
2.5 years post op
SW: 323
CW: 153
Size 24/26 to a 4/6
No skin removal

Hi guys!
I get on here every six months or so to update y'all I've never made a topic with progress pictures before, so I thought I would this time, as I've been maintaining below goal for almost a year now.
SW: 323
CW: 153
Size 24/26 to a 4/6
No skin removal
I ran my first half marathon in February and am running another in November, which is pretty cool! When not in race training mode, I run 3-6 miles, three days per week, and do HIIT style training (heavy weights and cardio) at the gym 2-3 other days per week. I tend to fluctuate between 150-153 lbs, depending on the time of month and just general day to day food/water intake.

I haven't experienced any regain. Around "that time of the month" I oscillate about 3 lbs, but it always drops back off once shark week is over. I weigh daily and keep a very close eye on the scale - if I know I've been indulging more than usual, and I see the scale creep up a pound, I'm very careful to clean up my act and get a few extra runs in. It always drops back off within a few days.

The key to not regaining is constant vigilance, and making a healthy lifestyle

Thanks all!! You guys are too kind <3
As far as skin goes, I have more questions about that than most any other issue. I have many friends who lost 30-50 lbs less than I did, around my same age (28), and were left with folds of excess skin.
It's highly uncommon to be left with so little after a weight loss as large as mine - and I wish I had words of advice for the many people who ask me daily what my "secret" was!
The truth is, your excess skin (or lack thereof) will have more to do with your age, general body composition, skin elasticity, and genetics, than it will have to do with anything you do externally.
I exercise and use regular lotion on my skin every night. That's it. That's all I've "done" to have so little excess skin. I chalk it up to a whoooooole lot of prayer and good skin tone & natural elasticity, honestly!

Hey y'all! Checking in!
2.5 years post op
SW: 323
CW: 153
Size 24/26 to a size 4/6
No skin removal

I'm back, y'all!! Work has been crazy. I'll be 22 months post op on the 20th. Almost to that 2 year mark!
HW: 330
SW: 323
CW: 150

Hey y'all!!
Long time, no talk - training for a half marathon and work has been insane lately!
My two year surgiversary was November 20th, and I tried on my old Cotton Ball dress because it was hanging in my closet, lol. (Cotton Ball is a southern cotillion ball - traditional thing with debutantes, etc. - I was 17 when I did it).
Left is from my wedding <3 that dress is a size 28. The one on the right is a size 8; I'm generally a 6 in clothes, but bridal runs small!
HW: 330
CW: 150
No skin removal

Hey y'all! Checking in!
2.5 years post op
SW: 323
CW: 153
Size 24/26 to a 4/6
No skin removal

I haven't experienced any regain. Around "that time of the month" I oscillate about 3 lbs, but it always drops back off once shark week is over. I weigh daily and keep a very close eye on the scale - if I know I've been indulging more than usual, and I see the scale creep up a pound, I'm very careful to clean up my act and get a few extra runs in. It always drops back off within a few days.

The key to not regaining is constant vigilance, and making a healthy lifestyle