Hi everyone,

I am eight-and-a-half months post-sleeve surgery, and I guess that I have reached my goal - down 70 lbs, from 203 to 133, and from a size 16-18 to a size 6-8. Of course, I am thrilled, but terror is beginning to set in about being able to maintain my new weight. I understand that there is a 'honeymoon period', after which food may become more difficult again. I am scared petrified of gaining weight back.

I am focused on protein, vegetables and fruit (primarily protein - meat, fish, eggs, cheese, yogurt, etc., and smaller quantities of vegetables and fruit). I still drink two Premier Protein shakes a day as mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks, which I find that I really need. I avoid all refined carbs and sugar/desserts and don't really plan to re-introduce them, at all, as they are trigger foods for me.

What tips have helped others in keeping their weight off? I am elated to be successful and at goal, with a normal BMI and feeling so good about myself for the first time in forever, but what steps can I take to ensure that I will remain at this weight for the long-term? I weigh myself daily and am very particular about my food. I'm not a real exerciser, except for walking.

I would be most grateful for any tips that you all could share with me. Thank you in advance.

Edited May 10, 20179 yr by skinnyjeansatlast
missing word

I was just sleeved 3 weeks ago. But one eating plan I love is called Trim Healthy Mama -- focuses on whole foods, protein and good fats, good carbs (and avoiding the bad ones!). There is a book and a cook book. I regularly make stuff out of the cookbook. I would also add in some strength training -- having muscle revs up your metabolism!

Sounds like you've got a good handle on your diet. The other piece of maintenance (and long term health in general for EVERYBODY) is some manner of consistent exercise/activity, whether you're "an exercise person" or not, it's something you just have to do for health. One way I think of it (I'm not an exerciser either LOL), is how would it look if I said "I'm not a tooth brushing person" the same way I say I'm not an "exercise person"?

Doesn't mean you have to start some gruelling gym routine you hate with a trainer who treats you like crap or a bunch of competitive gym bunnies around making you feel like ****.

You're so much smaller and healthier now just from the weight loss, I think you'll be surprised at the fact that exercise isn't nearly as much of a chore as it once was... especially if you get creative about where you get it from.

It can be going for a run, or it can be aquafit, or it can be taking a dance class or joining a soccer team or doing kickboxing to get some aggression out. Anything to get you moving and your heart pumping. The right activity and the right friends can help you make it work.

Sorry if that's the opposite of what you want to hear LOL, since you kind of pre-empted it at the end of your post, but it's the truth. There comes a point where you can't improve on your diet anymore and it's time to expand beyond it for your healthy changes.

Edited May 10, 20179 yr by teacupnosaucer