I can't tell you how thrilled I was to find this site. I have been battling my weight for years. I will lose weight and then after a few months I gain it back. I am very active and it's so frustrating when the weight dosen't come off. I have 2 family members that had the bariatric stomach surgery a couple years ago. It's so frustrating for me as the weight just drops off for them. It dosent matter what they eat and weekly they continue to lose weight. I struggle with dieting and exercising and begin to feel depressed and jealous that after having this surgery they have it so easy. They have had complications from the surgery though but they feel it all is worth it just to be thin. I try to focus on my health then the waist line. Its time for me to get serious about this weight loss. I need to prove it to myself that I have the power and strength to do it. I am greatful for this site and look forward to hearing your success stories or be here for support for someone else. Write soon. Love, Hope

Hi Gabe! Welcome to diettalk. This is the best place for support and help. There are so many other women and men here that are facing the same kinds of issues you are and I am one of them. I've had excess weight coming on for about 6 years now. So I've tried lots of diets and lots of the gimicks. But when I stopped "dieting" and decided that I felt lousy and wanted to be healthy, the weight started to come off. I've lost about 40 pounds and have around 60 to go. I practice portion control, eat from all the food groups, exercize (right now that consists of walking only), and drink 80 ounces of water a day. For me, all 4 of those areas are really important. You have to make sure that you aren't cutting your calories too low or you will stop losing. I know that sounds stupid, but it's true. I wouldn't even think about having surgery to help me with my eating. I know a couple people that have opted for some kind of surgery and wished they had never done it. Just doing it naturally will give you so much more satisfaction in the long run. Keep coming back here and using the bulletin board and chat room. This is a great bunch of people and I'm glad you want to become a part of them. Hope to see you soon in chat.

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Here's to healthy and happy!

Dj

i am here for you hope, along with everybody else, this is a family to most of us. post whenever you like, or email those people you fel connected with. you can email me at any time, im on twice a day, so i can answer you within a reasonable time. go to chat, everybody is willing to talk. good luck, keep smiling, think positive, and have a safe and healthy weekend.
stephanie