Usually not this shy... - ThinnerTimes

DebK · 08-15-2006, 12:28 PM

Hi everyone! I wanted to let all of you know how much this forum has helped me. I had surgery on June 12th and am just now getting up enough courage to write my first post. I don't know how I would have been able to get through some of the challenges I have had if it wasn't for finding and reading several posts out here.

I realize now how important it is to share experiences since I am sure there are a lot of people out there like me, just reading and not asking.

I could sure use some advice on struggling with feelings of hunger. I feel like I can eat more than many of you state on this board. Knock on wood, I feel fine, no recent complications, but I am just scared of failure.

I have been back to work now for two weeks and it is really hard not to fall into old habits of an afternoon break with a snack. How did anyone else deal with similar situations?

Blueyz · 08-15-2006, 01:53 PM

Is it head hunger or do you feel hungry? I had a hard time figuring it out early pre-op and I missed food. Whenever I smelled people's food at work, I isntantly felt hungry....I had to tell my brain to knock it off. I still have that problem when I see people eating really good-looking, good-smelling food. I am sure it will get better as time goes by. You will be able to eat a bit more and hopefully it will satisfy your hunger.

Glad you posted. There is so much information and a lot of great people here to help.

LisaBoston · 08-15-2006, 02:04 PM

Welcome, and glad you posted. Great place to be. Regarding hunger...its very different for us all. I don't get full or hungry, so its really hard to tell. What I can tell you is that if I am thirsty, that I feel "funny" sort of like a craving. Or if in a similar situation (like coffee break with coworkers) I think I want to go back to old habits, but make new good habits. Its just if not more an emotional game vs. physical hunger. Hope this helps you some.

LyndasRoom · 08-15-2006, 06:26 PM

Hi DebK,
Congratulations on jumping on in! I keep mozzarella sticks at work, in case I get a grumbly tummy. One usually satisfies, I peel it and eat it nice and slow, a little protein, and a satisfied pouchie.

Mavisavis · 08-15-2006, 09:35 PM

Hey welcome....glad you finally posted.

I too say if you feel like a snack, just plan a healthy one. I normally eat 3 meals and 2 snacks each day. There are lots of things you could have and enjoy. We can all give ideas if you want......tell us what kind of situation you are in (fridge? microwave accessible?, etc.)

DebK · 08-16-2006, 07:59 AM

Thanks for your suggestions. I do have a fridge and a microwave available. My doctor is pretty firm about no snacking, but it is a real challenge to do that.

I am sure a lot of my struggle is just due to old bad habits. I am trying to make new ones and change my lifestyle.

I think my brain is finally starting to catch on that I don't NEED to eat just because it is a certain time of day. I think that is a big part of it.

Last night, I went to a support meeting straight from work and didn't get home until after 8 pm. I hadn't eaten since lunch at Noon and felt like I needed something. I made the decision to go for a walk with my daughter once we got home rather than eating. That was a big step for me!! By the time we got home, I just didn't seem as hungry and felt a surge of energy. I know I would have not gone for the walk if I had eaten first as it seems like once I eat I get really sleepy. Anyone else experience this?

Bypassingme619 · 08-16-2006, 08:47 AM

Welcome aboard Deb. Glad you got the courage to come out of hiding and post. You will notice as the weight starts to fall off the shyness will start to fade away. As the feeling of hunger, I think we have all been down that road at least a time or two. Mines was because I need to increase my protein intake and my water in. Now is yours head hunger or are you actually hungry? Also remember as time goes by your pouch will begin to heal and you will be able to consume a little more thus leaving you with the feeling of a little hungrier then before. Does that make scenes?

Mavisavis · 08-16-2006, 12:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DebK

Thanks for your suggestions. I do have a fridge and a microwave available. My doctor is pretty firm about no snacking, but it is a real challenge to do that.

I am sure a lot of my struggle is just due to old bad habits. I am trying to make new ones and change my lifestyle.

I think my brain is finally starting to catch on that I don't NEED to eat just because it is a certain time of day. I think that is a big part of it.

Last night, I went to a support meeting straight from work and didn't get home until after 8 pm. I hadn't eaten since lunch at Noon and felt like I needed something. I made the decision to go for a walk with my daughter once we got home rather than eating. That was a big step for me!! By the time we got home, I just didn't seem as hungry and felt a surge of energy. I know I would have not gone for the walk if I had eaten first as it seems like once I eat I get really sleepy. Anyone else experience this?

Well, then call it 5 mini meals and don't snack at all. I don't think I can eat enough healthy food in 3 meals to keep me sustained or to get all my protein. I just choose to make 3 of them more formal and planned meals and 2 of them are healthy easy to grab type items that I refer to as a snack. Wls aside, most docs now say to eat 5 small meals a day anyhow. Just make it low fat cheese and healthy crackers, or fruit and nuts, or veggies and low fat italian, or an apple with a little PB, etc. Good luck....let us know how you do.

coptergirl · 08-16-2006, 01:39 PM

Welcome...so glad you finally decided to join us...I know you'll be glad you did. As for the afternoon snacking, I usually have a protein bar or a protein drink on hand and I use them. String cheese is also a great option as is turkey slices, nuts etc. You'll get the hang of it

Zenomia · 08-16-2006, 02:02 PM

Welcome...Glad you decided to join us. Everyone has made wonderful suggestions and I really can't add anything new other than we are glad to have here!!