I had my surgery in July of 2007, and one of the strangest things to come of the experience is that since my surgery I have become an incorrigible sweet tooth! Before my surgery, I was a gorge-type speed eater, a buffet-buster. But I never had much interest in sweets, aside from my addiction to Pepsi. Since my surgery, I have been living with uncontrollable cravings for chocolate and other sweet foods. Before my surgery, for example, if I had a piece of birthday cake, I would eat the cake and leave the frosting on the plate. Now, I ask for the piece with the flower on it! It's extremely troubling, and has made a difficult process even more difficult. has anyone else had a similar shift in cravings?

I know exactly what you are talking about. I crave sweets all the time. Since getting the band I have cut out my sugar intake almost completely. I used to drink soda all the time. You name it I ate it. I really think it is actually a physical thing that will right itself as time goes on. Until then I suck on sugar free candy and chew sugar free gum. I also try to always get some natural sugars in fruits.

Hmmm, sort of.

I dont really like ice cream much for instance. I dont dislike it but it has never ever been a problem or temptation food for me. Since banding, I do eat it more than I ever did (which is still not often). Because its easy.

I have always had a sweet tooth. I dont think its increased but sometimes I indulge it more simply, I think, for the experience of eating unrestricted - since sweet things like Cookies are so darn easy to eat. Sometimes I just plain want to eat without having to chew, without having to wait for it to clear etc.

And I find I have to e very careful careful with post exercise nutrition, I must have some protein/carbs mixed (like skim millk and some nuts) within the hour as I might burn 1000 calories in a long run and if I dont restore the glycogen and energy, I will have WICKED carb cravings all day long and will jsut graze without stopping.

That's what I'd suggest. Really stop and look at your diet. Are you perhaps hungry, lacking and that's giving you the cravings? Do you eat five small meals a day or three. Can you rejig the balance, cut some carbs, include some carbs, whatever in your meals, never let yourself get hungry etc etc to try to quell those cravings.

Oh, I'm so sorry. I had just the oppopsite happen. Before banding I could devore any type of sweets. Espcially chocolate. But after banding, my sweet tooth has been tamed. Alot of things seem to rich for me. Now, I do sometimes indulge in some sweets, but nothing like before.

I truly feel for you, because I know that sugar demon personally, and he is UGLY!

lucy

Hey Jacqui,

I don't know if you will see this, but I think you are awesome. I really respect every post I have seen of yours. You know your stuff about the lab band and how we must exercise. BTW, I have hired a personal trainer and feeling great.

lucy

Thanks Lucy and good luck!