valerieKovach

I am three and one half years out and I found that I need to refocus on what I was advised by my bariatric surgeon and his nutritionist. I focus on Protein and avoid carbs. Along the way, I found that I was sensitive to gluten. I have a little now and then, but not much. For convenience I eat Atkins Bars. If I have time, I make homemade Protein Bars. I find it is good to have something I am allowed to have with me at all times. I am really busy and cannot always eat at home. I love Greek Yogurt, still. I always have it on hand. At a fast food restaurant, I do well with the salads and I like how one fast food restaurant has the "low carb" version of burgers wrapped in lettuce. Wendy's Chili is a winner. I will have a Starbucks with sugar free flavors and soy milk. I use soy milk or almond milk now instead of regular. I could never drink milk again, but that's fine with me. I enjoy frozen yogurt for a treat. I get the sugar free variety if they have it. If not, I go to one of those places where you just weigh your portion. I get a very small portion and put some almonds on top. I am wanting to get more creative with cooking when I get time. I am particularly interested in recipes that I can grab and go with for lunches or at home when I come home tired.

I am three years out. A few months ago, I figured out I was drinking too much.. and had been doing so for almost a year. It started about 2 years out... It was just wine but it got to be just about every night and several glasses. When I stopped I had physical withdrawal symptoms. That was scary to me. Now I am still sober, but I know that there is an issue with my mind wanting to go back to food addiction, drink or do something. I even decided I have collected too many clothes from thrift stores and such and I am working to organize and declutter. I am not actively engaged in any addiction (that I know of). I have therapy once a week, but I have to admit I get nervous and feel edgy. It is not easy. On the other hand, with drinking and being 2 years post op, I gradually regained 15 pounds from my lowest point. I am happy since i stopped drinking, I not only got rid of those calories and I pay better attention to my food. I have lost 3 pounds of my regain.

To everyone who is having post WLS alcohol issues... I want to update. It is a struggle to handle addictions. I believe food was my primary addiction. After wls I was unable to "use it" in the same way and alcohol use got out of control. I have attended AA, though not as faithfully as many, but also I have gone to counseling. I realize that I have issues with anxiety and issues with dealing with stress. I have to cope with these things and a substance is not a solution. I believe spiritual and emotional growth are key. However, I want to note that it is not easy and it is an everyday struggle to stay healthy and whole in every way. The battle is no doubt worth it! valf

there is some kind of appetite suppressant you can get from health food stores based upon Chrysanthemum. I tried it and it worked. It helps with those nervous, I want to much feelings.

Ok, be careful with the drinking. I got to goal and started getting looser and looser with the drinking. Eventually I was drinking every night. Finally one day I woke up and realized I had a problem. I stopped. I still feel tempted months later, but it was getting out of control and it scared me. A certain number of people with have problems with WLS and drinking. I was one of them. Be careful.