Question:
Is it normal to have fluctuating amounts I can eat on different days at 1 yr post

I had VBG one year ago. Lost 75 pounds. Can I expect to lose any more over the next 6 months to 1 year or have I maximized the benefits of my surgery. I am really struggling with exercising regularly and I am constantly craving sweets and I know this is interfering.    — Lisa S. (posted on April 18, 2001)

April 18, 2001
I don't know about the "can I expect to lose more" part of your question, but I can comment on the eating fluctuating amounts part. I am one year post with an rny & I, too, can eat very different amounts on different days. Some days, it seems I can eat just about whatever amount I choose to and other days it seems I am back to about the first month and can eat no more than an ounce or two at a time. I just try to take it as it comes. When I can't eat much, I just say "oh, well" & drink more protein shake. On the days I can eat a lot, I try to measure all my portions so I don't go over the quantities I should eat. But those are the days when I can enjoy an occasional treat like a piece of toast, a sandwich, a bowl of cereal, or even a dessert, things I don't normally eat. I sometimes crave sweets, too, but have found a bowl of berries with bit of milk & artificial sweetener (I like Spleda) curbs my craving & satisfies me. I also chew sugar free gum when I'm feeling that old urge to have something in my mouth; it does help.
   — Kathy W.

April 18, 2001
I had vbg 5 mos ago and have found the same thing. But I recognize that I can eat more, or foods that didn't sit well before just before my period. A couple days into it and it goes back again. Strange eh? GWL!!!! I wish I knew about the "window" of loss.
   — Jo C.

September 10, 2003
I too am 13 mos post op and everday is still a challenge and new day for me I agree with previous post. somedays I feel like a bottomless pit and others I feel like I starting first month post op. I see this happening to other and I stop worring and just realize for us its most likly normal. God Bless
   — niteshadow181

March 19, 2005
Just remember, the surgery is not a cure, it is a tool. It does decrease how much you eat, but you still need to eat healthy foods and exercise to get the maximum benefit. Think about it. If you can only eat a cup at mealtimes, and you eat healthy grains, lean meats and fish and veggies most of the time, you will lose weight. If you eat a cup of Haagen Daas or Fettucine Alfredo instead...you can't expect to lose as well. If you are solely relying on the surgery to get you there, and are not watching your diet, you won't get as far as you would if you do. Just remember, you had this surgery to be healthy, right? So you need to change your eating habits as well - not just the amount.
   — Michele E.

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