Hey everyone,

I am writing for some tips/support/words of encouragement. I am 2 yrs about post op and had great success for first year dropped over a hundred pounds. Now I am married, and had a rough couple months and have almost put all weight back on following my wifes miscarrage, looking a severe knee surgery etc. Anyone have a diet or tips to help me get back on track. I am so upset with myself.

I'm not banded yet so my advice is limited.. Maybe start fresh. go back to where you were when you first got banded. Following the same rules. Maybe a few days of detox to boost you up again!

But, I just wanted to say I'm sorry for your loss!

i am so sorry for your loss. that must be so hard to deal with on top of everything else and trying to eat right. r u able to exercise at all? i know u said u r having knee troubles. otherwise i would say try and remember how good u felt when u were eating less and losing more. i know that it is hard though. we didnt automatically lose our love or need for food with the surgery. i hope it gets better for u

I'm not quite in a position to advise anyone on physical activity. However, I asked my mom for advice on low impact/seated exercise. She's amazingly fit and trim, unlike me.

I know that swimming is usually recommended as a low impact activity for people with limited mobility or weak/injured joints. Personally, I would love to swim, but at this point I'm too self-concious to be seen in a swimming suit. This may not be a problem for you though. If it is, there may be special times at your local community pool set aside for people with injuries, like how they do for senior citizens etc.. The pool will be more empty then.

Also, there are exercise machines that do not require standing or movement of the legs. As one example, how about those seated rowing machines at some gyms? They are excellent for cardio and muscle-building. Of course, sit-ups are another seated alternative. Also, weight-training machines like chest presses can help you burn calories and build muscle (which will also speed weight loss).

I'm really sorry for your wife's and your loss. Also, for needing major knee surgery. I think you and your wife need someone you can talk to for emotionally recovery and so that you don't fall back on food for comfort too much.

Please don't be upset with yourself. Many people gain large amounts of weight after personal tragedy and mobility-limiting injuries/surgeries. You lost 100 pounds once. You should take it as proof that you absolutely can do it again. Take it slow at first until you get in the hang of things again. In terms of diet, you should probably follow what worked for you the first time as long as it was healthy and sustainable.

I'm rooting for you.