A reader emailed My Bariatric Life and asked bariatric dietician Elizabeth Anderson for her perspective on weight control. Learn how to get your question answered.
Dear Elizabeth,
I had the gastric sleeve done 3 years ago, I did great for a while but then I stalled. I’d still like to get closer to that almighty BMI of less than 30. I’m not eating that much and I’m a nurse so I’m active running around the units all day. What am I doing wrong?
Denise*
Let’s Talk about Weight Control
Thanks for your question, Denise.
Congratulations on your weight loss and courageous decision to commit to a healthier lifestyle with weight loss surgery.
Let’s look at the big picture first.
You are maintaining your weight loss. Fantastic!! Give yourself the credit you’re due. When was the last time you were pleased with the direction of the scale for 3 years?? Don’t overlook or dismiss this genuine personal success.
To find out what successful ‘losers’ are doing for weight control, I went to the National Weight Control Registry NWCR. This national database collects weight loss stats on thousands of people who’ve lost significant weight and kept it off. Read their personal stories.
The folks who’ve kept off significant weight for more than five years — bariatric surgery or not —use these 5 weight control guidelines:
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- Exercise 1 hour daily
- Weigh themselves regularly
- Eat breakfast
- Eat a low fat, low cal diet (Elizabeth’s note: 60-80 grams of protein daily for post-ops)
- Eat the same on weekdays as on weekends
The most encouraging news of all? Data shows that after 2-5 years of maintaining your weight loss — you’re much more likely to keep it off, long-term!!
If you’re finding yourself self-sabotaging or constantly ‘falling off the wagon,’ there’s a good reason — and it’s not your lack of willpower or that you’re a poor excuse for a human being. You need help, a partner, wise counsel. Seek that out in a local therapist who has experience in disordered eating. You can start by visiting the National Eating Disorders Association website.
Having an experienced third party help you understand why you do what you do, or don’t do, in your weight control struggle can be the key to success you’re seeking.
Until next time, be good to YOU!
Elizabeth
Content is the opinion of the author and does not constitute or is a replacement for medical advice.
*not the reader’s actual name
