MissLindseyR

On ‎9‎/‎25‎/‎2018 at 3:50 PM, Biddy zz said:

Oh no! Pepitas, spicy, are a common go-to for me when peckish. I have never had any ill effects.

BUT - some people do develop odd inteolerances after surgery, and suddenly react against things like dairy that were fine before.

So play it cautious. Have a 100% safe meal. Add a few pepitas and see what happens... be your own careful lab rat! Let us know!!

Hello! I had a few pepitas last night and was fine. I'm starting to think I had overfilled my pouch and that's what caused.

4 minutes ago, FluffyChix said:

Nuts are tough on me. I think cuz of the fat. I have to eat them in very small amounts at a time. Like 1/2oz appears to be my max. I won't get foamies, but I get terribly nauseated and have to go lay down.

Good to know, maybe I should cut my serving in half.

Hello all,

The week before last, I had a problem with cashews, I could eat around 3 handfuls. Well that's a lot of calories in my pouch. This past weekend I decided to get some better Snacks and package them myself. I picked up some almonds, a Protein mix, and some pepitas (pumpkin seeds minus the outside part) anyway, I just had some of my pepitas and started to eat a bit of my lunch and got the foamies. First time I've ever had them, I was pretty sure I was going to throw up, but didn't. It felt like I was being suffocated. Anyway, do any of you eat seeds? Was it that I ate the pepitas too close to lunch? Did I overfill my pouch. To be clear, I only got maybe 3 small bites in of my lunch before the feeling happened. No drinking in between, I ate a few small pinches of the pepitas then took about 20mins and had a few bites of lunch. This is also a lunch I have had so many times and it protein and some veggies. Any ideas for snack options? Can I eat normal pumpkin seeds?

I don't know if this helps, but my program allowed mashed potatoes. Well, I ate them and it halted my weight loss for 3 weeks. We decided for my body, that I can't have straight potatoes like that. Now I limit carbs to around less than 50g a day.

Hello everyone, I'm two months out and already seeing hairloss. I'm also thinking of getting it cut.

I take my Vitamins, I eat my Protein, and follow all the rules. I am two months out and my hair is already falling out. I'm pretty scared about it. I'm thinking of getting it cut, but I'm getting married in two months also.

I'm two months out and I can eat about 1/2 a cup as well. When I was on the puree stage, I could honestly eat more. The foods slid down easily. One you eat real foods, you eat less, you also feel the restriction more. It took me some time though. I'm still learning how this new stomach works. Good luck to you!!!

This is where I'm at and I'm two months out. I lost 1.4lbs last week.

Mine is so inconstant. At week 3 I stalled for 3 weeks, after that I lost 8lbs on week 6, 5 on week 7, then 1.4 last week. I weigh in tomorrow for my 2 month (8 week) weight in. But I'm down 30lbs since surgery on July 2nd. And 80lbs total since I started this whole journey last October.

I'm two months out and pretty much everything I eat has to be moist. I stick to a low carb Keto like diet, but I don't do a ton of fat. But I will say when I eat stuff, I use salsa to make it moist or low fat sour cream. I also do no sugar added marinara sauce for meatballs. Also, if I make tuna or chicken salad, I'll add extra Pickle Juice and I still use mayo but I use the low fat one as long as the sugar isn't high. I aim for things with less than 3g or sugar. Pinterest is my best friend.

2 minutes ago, PENGU1N said:

I think this is why I'm hesitant to even go through the process of WLS. I have my first consult in a couple weeks and if I'm still struggling with cravings after wls, I'm going to struggle with this, big time.

I know it's a complete change in behavior, but I am very much scared that this will be a waste of time and money for me, not to mention all the "I told you so's" i'm going to get after I fail. I'm very weak when it comes to coping tools, I have an alter-ego (I'm not crazy, I swear) that likes to sabotage me. How many people actually lose their cravings by having wls vs how many don't and struggle with this beyond? I've read a lot here and I'm seeing both. How do I know if it's worth it for me?

My insurance had me do a 6 months monitored diet. During the time, I exercised and ate the best I could. I also went back and forth constantly on if I wanted the surgery. I knew though that my efforts could be even greater if I had it. I was willing to give it try. Some people do regain, it happens. But you will always have this tool. Even if you have the surgery or not, you will have to continue to work for what you want. The surgery just assists you. It's all very personal though. I did a lot of reading and pros and cons. But I had almost 8 months total before my surgery day to really think it all through. I do not regret my surgery one bit, even with the struggles I've faced. I had two days of wanting to binge this week, but other than that, the rest of the week I've been great, and today will be my third gym day. Those other moments outweigh the two days of bingeing thoughts.

On ‎8‎/‎27‎/‎2018 at 7:06 PM, Meley24 said:

I am almost two weeks post op and regretting having bypass surgery. Fortunately, I haven’t had any complications thus far but I can’t help feeling like I made a mistake. I keep worrying about all the complications that can happen that I’m stressing myself out all the time. And, I no longer enjoy eating as it feels like a chore to chew 20 times and wait 60 seconds in between bites. I regret undergoing a surgery that is irreversible and comes with so many complications. I’m sorry if I’m coming across as b****ing, I’m just wondering if this feeling is common after surgery.

I felt this way too at two weeks out. But mine wasn't my tummy, I had a yeast rash all over my incisions and everything, it was pretty miserable. But at two months, I can tell you, I love it. I struggle still, I recently wrote about bingeing and my bypass so it's still a mental challenge. But it gets easier the further you go. Just keep sipping and walking.

12 minutes ago, FluffyChix said:

Someone here coined the phrase that this isn't "weight loss surgery." This is "weight maintenance" surgery. Cuz although it's hard, this surgery still makes it easier for us to maintain our new weights, because of how it affects our metabolisms, and also how it alters other biochemical and mechanical systems. But I don't feel it's a slam dunk. Even now, I can gain weight without having to do a whole lot of food gyrations. I'm only 6 months out.

I agree!! When I was 3 weeks out, my surgery office allowed mashed potatoes. Well I ate those potatoes, and I gained weight! At 3 weeks!!! I stalled for 3 weeks as well, we realized I couldn't have the mashed potatoes. Even though I ate like 200 calories, my body still held on to them and gained weight. I realized then that even though I have had this surgery, I still have to work at it. I will not be able to eat whatever and lose weight. To this day, I'm scared of mashed potatoes haha!

8 minutes ago, brightfaith said:

I struggle with wanting to eat more in the evenings and also with the frustration that I can't just be a normal person who can eat normal quantities of food and maintain a healthy weight. I really appreciate this post and reading all of the responses--feel less alone. I worry about keeping this up for the rest of my life but also know that I so very much value my new physical mobility and being able to be "in life" in ways I couldn't be before and hope that that will be enough to keep me going.

I feel you. Evenings get me, I'm learning to fill them with other things though. I could say I don't sit and watch tv, but that's a lie. I have a full time job and I'm a mom and soon to be wife, so sometimes I just want to turn my brain off and watch tv. But I have to limit it and try to keep busy, like I'll do laundry and tv. It seems if my hands are kinda busy then I don't snack. It's sad but it's what I have to do. It's crazy to think this is what we have to do the rest of our lives! But we did pick this decision and if you were like me, the benefits of being able to do more out weight the food. So the fair will be here next weekend. Last time I went, a few years ago, I was hot, sweaty, large, and just ate all the foods. I'm excited to actually take the girls. I used my weight as an excuse for not doing stuff with them. It hindered their lives, I feel horrible about it. But I don't get near as hot or out of breath so we do more!!! They love it, I love it, and it's ok that I won't have a funnel cake.

14 minutes ago, FluffyChix said:

hahahaaha at CB. The b*****s! LOL.

Yes, I would love to be wrong on my theory. I might be. Who knows, we're all so blessedly unique! You know? I just know from the past 18 months that I've spent reading and researching, the vet-peeps who maintain or efficiently and precisely deal with any regain issues they have do so because they are ever-present of their reality and how easy it will always be to pack on the pounds and so they are continually working on staying healthy and trained. And they do that by weighing, tracking food, planning food, and evaluating if their eating and exercise and lifestyle are all in check and working for them. Or so it seems.

By the way, I didn't make this stuff up. It comes from MDs and PhDs, and published studies that say once you've gotten into metabolic derangement and have the extra fat cells on your body--especially to the level of MO, you will never again be able to behave as if you are a normal weight person without suffering regain. And keeping the weight off is almost super-herculean in nature due to the hormonal stress and influence those extra fat cells exert on our bodies. So honestly, because we ever were MO, our bodies do not operate under the same laws that govern a naturally thin person.

That's so crazy. I've always been told we never loose our fat cells, they just shrink. So it makes perfect sense. I follow a few ladies that are a couple of years out of surgery and they still track, work out, meal plan, all the things we do today. I track my food everyday. I have to, or I'll over eat, even with my new stomach. I have to see those calories. I also wear a fit bit to see how many calories I burn in a day to know I'm in a deficit. It's hard, but it's the new way of life in order to stay healthy. My sister in law told me she could not do what I did, surgery wise, because she loves food. I told her it's hard, but I love being able to walk without being out of breath, and chase my 2 year old at the park. The benefits out weight the food I'm missing. But honestly, their are so many other options now with everyone going Keto or low carb. I made Protein brownies a couple of week ago, the girls loved them. But even with that, I have to make sure I have 1....not 5 or 6.

7 minutes ago, FluffyChix said:

Gosh it will probably always be a mind game for us. It's pretty much about "being in recovery." You can't wave a magic wand or scalpel and have all of the old programs, tapes, behaviors, emotions, thinking, history that contributed to our attendance at the obesity ball just disappear into a stardust poof of unicorn glitter. LOL. I honestly believe that once we're fat, we're always gonna be fat. So we have to use super smart hacks and strategies to outwit our fatheads. You know?

I just accept that today and for today only, I'm choosing to live in recovery. Tomorrow I will wake up and have to make the same commitment to a new day and a new day of healthy eating choices. And that does take constant attendance to be present and aware of food that I choose to put down my gullet. The good news though, is that the more your do it, the more "secondary" it becomes, so the new tapes and programs can run one step down in your subconscious. So it isn't as much of a daily grind.

There are people here who will argue with me about this "fact" -- that the rules don't apply to them. That they are somehow different and just cuz they got their gut operated on, they can now live "in moderation" lol. *snort* Sorry. But only time will tell all. And in 3 or 5 years, it will be interesting to see how the "living in moderation" folks are fairing with weight maintenance.

Yeah, I can't do moderation, I know if I have a bite of Pasta, I will over do it and not look back. If I want this to work, I have to limit what foods I allow and this is probably forever. I agree with you, we will always be in recovery and I'm pretty sure I'll always be fat, even if just mentally. It took 30 years to get me to the size I was preop, you can't just erase that. Granted, it was a lot of childhood trauma and such, and I'm much happier and heck even safer than as a child, but that damage was done and I'm trying to recover and just be a better and healthier person for my family. I will say it is hard with having two younger girls, I allow them treats and such, I just don't eat them along side them now. Speaking of, they put a Cinnabun in our mall, OMG! I'm so glad smells don't have calories because that's all I do, just take in the smells. haha. See, still a fat kid!

On ‎8‎/‎28‎/‎2018 at 10:11 PM, 3nuthut said:

Boy, the mind is so powerful.
We’re all here going or have gone through this. It’s a learning process. You’ll be happy one minute and hell bent the next. From my own experience, learning to chew and savor your bites really does help. And that only comes from practice. I’ve spent a lifetime mindlessly eating or feeling like conquering the plate to be satisfied. I’ve gone through frustration, depression and just being pissed off. To me this is the worst addition because you HAVE to eat, so you are temped everyday, multiple times. This tool forces me to change and it is a huge change. Deciding to have surgery means I’ve needed help to stop the madness. It’s all a withdrawal/learning experience that will make you come out a healthy winner. Just chalk this up as one of those times and find a routine before it gets out of control. Everyone is here for you with great advice and tips. You got this!

Thank you! I haven't had any more issues with it this week, but I did add in working out to my evenings to help fill those 'witching hours." Haha. I'm also still trying to learn my full feeling. But it is definitely a mind game. It's a hard one too. Thank you for your kind words.

On ‎8‎/‎28‎/‎2018 at 9:53 PM, Bryn910 said:

I am sorry you’re going through this. I too have gotten angry about not being able to eat the whole way through a movie, or eat while others are eating or not being able to finish my meals at a restaurant.

lucky me, I tried to binge & got sick. I just feel gross afterwards if I try to eat more. That or I pay for it in the bathroom. I try to divide all my food up first if I am out. Or if I am somewhere where there is lots of food to choose from, like family gatherings or potlucks, I legit take my time and decide what is best for me to try. If it’s something I have tasted before, I won’t even try it, and I probably get a half a tablespoon of everything else I want to try.

It’s hard, hang in there

I pay for it too, we went out to the mall last night to pick up our wedding bands, and I ate chipotle without any rice. I ate slow and one I felt that full feeling, I stopped. I did bring left overs for lunch today and I even have enough for dinner again tonight. I've learned if I eat past that full feeling I feel horrible and sick.

On ‎8‎/‎28‎/‎2018 at 3:24 PM, Neversaynever said:

Yes, I try to stay under 1200 but usually fall between 1000 to 1100 most days.

My best advice that I use, is when I am eating at home, I put out what I can eat and no more. For instance I bulk make a lot of my meals. I like mince so I do a lot of chilli and I do a lot of meatballs with sauce, that kind of thing. I know I can only eat three meatballs so I split it into those quantities, any more and I am constantly trying to get rid of the water/foam in my mouth from overeating.

Same with the chilli or anything else I bulk make like stews etc, I just portion it into what I can eat and no more, I can tell by sight now, how much to put into a tupperware for later. It works for me but its a lot harder when you are out in the real world and haven't brought something with you, hence me trying to eat a full sausage sandwich this morning when my stomach only fits a third!

I am two months out and stay anywhere between 600 and 800 calories. I am staying away from carbs and sugars. I've done better through the week though and I've added in working out this week. What kind of meat do you use in your chili?

7 minutes ago, AshAsh1 said:

You should absolutely be proud of yourself for coming to these realizations.

Honestly, I had to change my relationship with food. I had to think of food as a means to an end. I don't allow myself things that are super yummy (if I do, its rare). As an example, I bought these Protein muffins months ago.... and still haven't brought myself to eat them. They aren't bad, in fact, the sell them on the store here. BUT, I know in my heart... they may taste too *good* for me and it could lend way to other things. I also have replaced food with other forms of enjoyment or distraction. I kept a clean house prior to surgery. But my house is immaculate now. I'm always getting up and doing something to keep my mind off things.

Its about knowing you have a problem, and fighting that problem every day. Sometimes you lose, more often than not you win. But eventually it becomes normal. Your thought process changes, and its not such an up hill battle.

It is hard. It is so hard! I'm going to work on this. I understand about the muffins. In my mind, I would say hey they are good and eat way more than I should, or have one everyday and it would make things worse. Dang the food! Well, I am thankful for my tool and don't want to mess this up. I'm going to work on thinking of more things to do in the evening. I need to also break my idea of tv and food as one.

1 minute ago, Orchids&Dragons said:

Have you tried brushing your teeth earlier in the evening? Most foods don't taste good after toothpaste.

I have not, this is a good idea. I will try this!

4 minutes ago, FluffyChix said:

See I'm good by night time. I may have a planned bedtime snack, but it's usually 4-6 bing cherries and 6 almonds. LOL. (Those damn almonds again...)

But I have a witching hour(s) between 3:30-7:00 (dinner time) where I habitually snacked from the time I was in grade school to adulthood. The power is great within those hours. The beast lives on and tries hard to take command of the ship. I work from home.

See mine would be after dinner time (6ish) until sleep time (9sih). That's my witching hours. I'm going to start calling it that! Haha.

18 minutes ago, FluffyChix said:

^^^I've had hungry hungry hippo days where nothing appeases me but to add a "semi-crap snack". I'm ALWAYS appalled at how many calories there are in this snack and for such relatively little volume. And invariably, it throws off my meal schedule where I'm not hungry and I have to fight myself, not to say, "Well, I've already blown it and am not that hungry--therefore I shall continue with just another little crap-filled, high-calorie snack. LOL.

And these are so-called HEALTHY snacks:

Quest Protein chips and any kind of dip...even made with Greek Yogurt
Parmesan cheese Crisps with Peanut or Almond Butter
Union Cafe Bar Nuts (homemade with Truvia)
Cheese/Salami/Pepperoni
Apples & Peanut Butter
Almonds and Damn-Near Anything
Cocoa Almonds and ALL.THE.THINGS!!!! (I feel like I'm yelling. Am I yelling?)
Hummus on my finger...or with veggies
Did I mention full-fat cheddar cheese of ANY KIND?
Real Ranch or Onion Dip with any veggie or pepperoni chip

And the list could go on all day.

For me the good thing is when I'm at work, the only food I allow myself is what I bring and it's very in sync with what I should be eating, but at night, if I have "extra" time, extra as in, I'm not walking or cleaning, I can watch tv and get it in my head I need a snack. Night time gets me.

40 minutes ago, skinnylife said:

Those old behavior made you feel better in the moment. May be why you feel a bit sad to let them go.

All of us have behaviors to overcome to be successful long term. The good thing is you recognized you are stress /emotional eating. The next step is finding another way to cope without food. I'm sure there are many here that can give you ideas on what they do to cope. An option is to speak with a counselor/therapist.

Ways I cope:

Keep busy. I know the feelings will pass. It helps keep my mind off food.

Listing to music and going for a walk. I process mystress/ emotions while I exercise. Confronting life's issues has worked better for me than soothing them with food.

Hope you find what works for you.

Some things you may already know

Healthy snacking or more frequent meals that keep your calories and macros in weight loss range is fine.

Be mindful if you see yourself grazing. It's a common reason why people gain after surgery.

"Grazing" is a maladaptive repetitive eating pattern. Eating more frequent/ repetitive meals that put you over your calorie and macro goals. This can be a combination of healthy and unhealthy food choices. It is easy to eat substantial calories and gain weight. It's as if you never had surgery.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5748772/

See I did that thing where I was all nah, it's been a rough Monday, I don't want to go walk, even when my 9 year old suggested it!! And then tried to eat more than needed. That's those old behaviors! Walking and exercising help me, I need to get back to them. Thank you for your reply. I'm going to check this article out!

46 minutes ago, AshAsh1 said:

This post is such an accurate representation of why this surgery is only a tool. We can cheat and we can sabotage. Many people don't admit that they can just wait those 30 mins to eat more. Thank you for your honesty. I would have to agree with @Orchids&Dragons advice. The minute my food comes, I ask for a to-go box. I also clean up food right away after cooking. I've said this from the beginning, that its depressing to me to go out to eat because I get to enjoy 3-5 bites, and then I'm full. It's frustrating when you actually enjoy food, and perhaps like me, a foodie. I like to eat. I never ate because I was bored or because I was stressed. I actually LOVED eating. So for me, it's so much more mental than physical. I've had to overcome a lot of bad habits and mental struggles.

It is just a tool! I enjoyed food too. I think that's my problem, I looked at food and eating almost as an event instead of fuel. How have you overcome some of these mental struggles? I will say I am proud I am realizing what I am doing now and not in denial over it.