Can Weight Watchers work for post gastric bypass patients?

Question
Dr. Jacques:  I am 4 1/2 years post gastric bypass roux n y, I have lost 95 pounds and was maintaining my weight  between 173-176. Recently I have felt the weight creeping up, clothes are feeling tight and I can just see the extra pounds.  Today I signed up for Weight Watchers and I weighed in at 181 pounds. I was just sick about it, but I had a feeling I was up there. Well anyway I was wondering if Weight Watchers will work with the bypass? My concern is the malabsorption. Should I stick to the plan the way it is written, or do I need to make adjustments because of the malabsorption? I have been through to much to gain this weight back, I have had some additional surgeries due to internal hernias and adhesions.  I appreciate any insight. Thanks so much. Jill

Answer
Jill,

Anything that teaches you good habits can be beneficial.

But first, let me back up and say that you have really done a terrific job of maintaining your weight.  I know that any weight regain can be terrifying, but statistically speaking, most gastric bypass patients regain about 10 of what they initially lost and then they find their weight stabilizes.

What I might recommend first are a few of the following things:
1) Go back to the original eating plan you were given by your surgeon - and back to that calorie level.  
2) Consider a program designed for weight loss surgery patients: Colleen Cook with Bariatric Support Center International and Barbara Thompson both offer "Back on Track" programs that are conducted over the phone.  This would connect you with other WLS patients who are going through the same thing, and with whom you can work to get to your goal.
3) See if your surgical program (or if you have moved, one in your area) offers a Back on Track program or at least a support group for "advanced" patients - you don't necessarily want to be in there with new pre-ops who are losing bunch of weight, sorting out issues like dumping, etc.  You might also be able to see a bariatric dietitian who can work with you one-on-one.
4) Exercise is still an important tool for keeping you weight where you want it.  Since you have had some additional surgeries, you might want to ask your doctor if an referral for assisted exercise with a physical therapist might be appropriate.

Weight Watchers can be fine, but you may have to make adjustments.  You will definitely need to be taking a good vitamin program.

Again, I would encourage you to look at the things specifically designed for weight loss surgery patients with weight regain first.

Please let me know if you have any questions or need more information.

In Health,

Dr. Jacques

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