Hi- Going on four weeks, but had an issue this weekend. I am rarely hungry, but was surrounded by food this weekend that was bad and found myself eating things I should not have, i.e.- pop tart, pretzels. I am a little worried. When I have a routine, I am good. But when I don't, I am a little worried. Any tips on getting over the mental component? I am making good progress and I do not want to derail it. Any tips appreciated.

Glad to see you are aware of the weak point in your mental game.

Post op is very much a mental game. Whether you lose weight fast or slow you will reach your goal if you win the post-op mental battles.

You see this so your are at least aware. Now what to do about it.

Avoid situations that you can. even just changing rooms if food is around

carry a drink - coffee or water to give yourself something to sip and occupy yourself

Distract yourself

and finally just stay aware don't let yourself run on auto without thought in situations like this.

This not easy and takes practice to become habit but the good habits you develop now will be what carries you thru in a year or two when the hunger is back and the restriction is less.

good luck

1 hour ago, TomC said:

Hi- Going on four weeks, but had an issue this weekend. I am rarely hungry, but was surrounded by food this weekend that was bad and found myself eating things I should not have, i.e.- pop tart, pretzels. I am a little worried. When I have a routine, I am good. But when I don't, I am a little worried. Any tips on getting over the mental component? I am making good progress and I do not want to derail it. Any tips appreciated.

I was on vacation last week and was surrounded by junk food. Peanut M and M's (my fav), choc chip cookies, snack mix, chips, etc. All of it just laying on the counter. It's hard to break those habits of grabbing food when you pass by even though you're not hungry. I confess, I gave in at times too. And even when I was full I wanted to eat it. The mental part is SO hard. You're not always going to be able to avoid it. We can't shut ourselves in our homes and stick to our safe routines all the time. I like the idea of carrying water or something to sip on when faced with this situation. Keeps your hands busy. Also, if you know you're going to an event that will have snacks sitting around, eat before you go so at least you'll have that discomfort reminder if you try to snack! And give yourself a break every now and then. A handful of snack mix or a cookie isn't going to derail your progress as long as you get right back on track.

I'm right there with you, it's MUCH easier when you are in a routine. I think that the best thing you can do when you're not in your normal routine is plan. Know the types of food that you can eat, and stick to those. I know that's easier said than done sometimes though.

I agree with drinking water keeps your hands and mouth occupied.

I'm frequently in situations like this, candy spread out on a conference table for a day long meeting, or cookies brought in to a meeting after lunch. Going to a bar after dinner and bar snack, or someone orders nachos.

I just drink water, and keep drinking. I also focus on the fact I'm not actually hungry, and what my goals are.

Thank you all for your help!