Help - fighting old demons

Sometimes I do think carbs are part of the issue but because of my low blood sugar issues I am supposed to do the carbs. The distraction and keeping myself busy seems to be part of the answer and planning more healthy snacks as needed seems to also be a key part. I have been slacking and need to get on the ball, speaking of which an exercise ball sounds great and I never thought of ebay. I am going to have to check that out this weekend. Thanks so much for the support. Courtney

HI Courtney, I am sorry to hear that you are having these troubles. You have come so far - don't let yourself go beck to those unhealthy ways. I wish I had more expereince to give you some meanigful advice, but being 3 weeks post op, I'm still too new at all this. I have noticed that I am starting to experience some of that head hunger - my brain telling me that I "need" to go get candy out of the kids' Easter baskets, that I "need" some French Fries because I haven't had them in a month, etc. Yesterday when it hit, I went for a walk with my iPod until I felt I could trust myself to eat and drink what I am supposed to. I don't know if that helps, but I just wanted to let you know that I'm here for you if you need to vent or be talked out eating something. Just shoot me and email. Take Care - You're goona be fine! Hugs, Robin

Robin thanks for being there. Great job on the walk thing, you are teaching yourself the good behaviors early out and that is wonderful. Courtney

I cannot offer anything new. Most of us don't want to face the stress any more than we have to. I just want to offer my encouragement and a big ol' hug. Jen

Thanks so much Jen. Knowing I have everyone here to help is such a great feeling. Courtney

Courtney, There is no quick fix that I can find. I did well until I was put on Paxil for "hot flashes" and it was like someone turned on my appetite and cravings like they were before surgery. Before you get to that point, please stop yourself. If you need to see a doctor to get the motivation or for a prescription for the stress -- do that. It is easier to get 5 pounds off than 15 (boy do I know this). If not that, than be honest with yourself regarding what is causing the stress and start to reduce it. Take care of yourself first. YOU ARE WORTH IT. If some things don't get done the way that would be your first choice, it's OK. YOU ARE MORE IMPORTANT than whatever didn't get done. I don't know about you, but I am a carb addict -- the more I eat, the more I want. The one thing I did do was to go back to protein supplements (70-90grams) which seems to be helping me feel full and stay away from the carbs. Here's a big hug and I'll be praying for you.

Hey Cathy. I have been thinking about going back to my protein supplements. It would definitely be a better choice and will keep me full so I won't feel like snacking. I am not to the point of having gained yet but I definitely don't want to get there. I definitely need to work on the taking care of me thing and being able to let things go sometimes. Thanks so much for the support. Courtney

Mzzzzz Court, I love my Pure Protein Chocolate Deluxe protein bars. They serve as protein intake and a mid morning and afternoon snack and with water. I have also found I can tolerate some fruit now and a strawberry or Banana and OJ protein smoothie is woooonderful (fruit, couple of oz of skim milk, protein powder (chocolate of course) and ice. If occanssionally I munch, I munch on something like regular or cinnamon life cereal becasue I can eat one square at a time or the baked tostios with salsa because the salsa is veggies. But I can get carried away with either so proceed with caution. You are an attractive young lady. Why would you ever want to be or become invisible? You have great friends that cae about you and yo have done so much difficult stuff to improve your health and appearance. Don't let the battles of everyday life drag you down to forget your wonderful accomplishments. When you feel down,...you already have a mirror and the perfect dress (remember??) smile at your self. Put some music on and dance or sing,...or both. You can always post a distress message and let us response so we have a continued purpose for living as we help to boost each other up, cause we all get down at times. Joe

Hey Joe. I am begining to think going back to my protein would be a big help. That would be better snack choice and would keep me full. Who knows why my brain thinks I should be invisible. I have definitelty come to far to backslide. The dress, mirror thing is a good idea. Some compliments and good thoughts to myself would be a good start. A distress message to my close friends will definitely be one of my first choices when I am overwhelmed. Courtney