I feel like I just lost my bestfriend

I feel like I just lost my best friend, FOOD.  I had RNY surgery on 10/16 and I have only lost 18lbs.  At first it seemed that I could eat a lot more than I should have been able to.  But, then as many on this message board stated, my appetite went down.  Now, I get full after eating just a few bites of protein.  I get no pleasure anymore from eating.  I sometimes miss being able to sit down and eat like I use to, but I don't miss all those diabetic shots I use to have to take everyday.  I am grateful for the surgery because I don't have to take any medication anymore.  I do wish more weight would come off, but I am sure it will in due time.

Are you working with a therapist or at least attending support groups regularly? This might help you find perspective as you work to replace food with other ways to enjoy life.

As I have been reading up, I am thinking it is going to be critical to maintain contact with a mental health professional post-surgery. I can see it'll be useful in re-evaluating my relationship with food, and then also re-evaluating my relationship with myself as well as others as I lose weight.

Good luck to you - 

You make a great point.  I will call and make an appointment with my therapist on Monday.  I will also attend the December support group.  I wish you much success on your weight loss journey.

I have felt that way at times. I am learning to do other things to replace food. Good luck and much success to you!!!

I just started with a therapist who specializes in WLS patients.  She suggested taking the "diaper bag" approach.  You know how every parent has a diaper bag full of things to help soothe a fussy infant/toddler?  In every diaper bag I have carried, you had a little toy, fresh supplies for accidents, baby lotion, maybe some baby tylenol.  She suggested getting together a similar kind of soothing kit for me to have for whenever I am not feeling "right" - for times when I would normally have turned to food for comfort.  She suggested that I gather 10 things that I can put in my bag that would provide some sort of comfort and/or distraction.  So I am in the process of trying to assemble that.  So far I have some very good smelling hand lotion; I plan to add some sugar-free mints, a little knitting project that is easily picked up and put down (like a dish cloth), a small book of affirming quotes or meditation book.  I am searching around for other ideas, so feel free to comment if you can think of any.

I hope you feel better soon.  Know that you are not alone in your feelings of grief/loss!

Thanks.  That is a great idea.  I think I would add a crossword puzzle in that bag.