Well here I am at almost 6 years post op and I have gained some weight back. It pains me so much to type those words. I worked hard to lose the weight I did and reached my goal, only to let bad habits start up again. I am determined to get back on track and that means a major overhaul in my life. I am tracking food, Water, and exercise; keeping a daily journal to help track what's going on in my head; and doing a lot of soul searching. Gaining weight is something that I was never prepared to face but it's a reminder that surgery is not a magic bullet and I must continue to put forth the effort to maintain my weight.

Who else is struggling? What have you done to be successful in these years beyond WLS? Any encouragement or tips would be most helpful!

I am a little over 2 years out. I have struggled this past year and have gained 14 pounds. I came back to this forum for help as I so depended on it my first year. I read that so many of us have gained some and struggled with the lifestyle changes we have to make to stay healthy. I saw that many have gotten back on track by using the 5 day pouch test. I looked it up online and read it for about a week before I convinced myself to give it a shot. It really has helped. I have lost 5 pounds and feel much more satisfied with healthy food choices. Of course, I've cut my calories by 300-500 per day, log all my food on "Lose it", Zumba three times a week, and drink more than 64 oz of water a day. I also walk half a hour daily. Your biggest hurdle was admitting you had to get back on track and you've done that. You're back on this forum for support. Know that we are all here for you. You got this! Good luck and check in often to let us know how you're doing.

I really appreciate the encouragement. I have considered the pouch test and wondered if it wouldn't be too many years since surgery to try it. It sounds like it worked well for you, so I think I will give it a shot. A jumpstart to weight loss would be great. I am also guzzling water and one thing I've noticed is that sometimes when I think I am hungry, I am actually thirsty. So the water has been helpful too!

I am a little over 2 years out. I have struggled this past year and have gained 14 pounds. I came back to this forum for help as I so depended on it my first year. I read that so many of us have gained some and struggled with the lifestyle changes we have to make to stay healthy. I saw that many have gotten back on track by using the 5 day pouch test. I looked it up online and read it for about a week before I convinced myself to give it a shot. It really has helped. I have lost 5 pounds and feel much more satisfied with healthy food choices. Of course, I've cut my calories by 300-500 per day, log all my food on "Lose it", Zumba three times a week, and drink more than 64 oz of water a day. I also walk half a hour daily. Your biggest hurdle was admitting you had to get back on track and you've done that. You're back on this forum for support. Know that we are all here for you. You got this! Good luck and check in often to let us know how you're doing.

I'm the opposite I wish could gain a little weight...I'm almost 2 years out and still losing... My poor tummy can't handle hardly anything. I weighted 285 now I'm 124.... I can't afford to lose anymore